Thousands gather in Ngāruawāhia to pay final respects to New Zealand's Māori king, Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII, who died recently. His daughter ascends to the throne as the new queen, marking a new era of Māori leadership in New Zealand.
Italian officials are considering allocating time slots to visit the historic Trevi Fountain in Rome to curb overcrowding by tourists. Drafted plans suggest timed reservations and a symbolic monetary contribution from non-residents.
Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, responds to indictment by French authorities, refuting claims and criticizing charges as 'misguided'. Durov acknowledges Telegram is 'not perfect' but states they have taken down millions of posts and channels daily to make the platform safer. He was indicted on charges including complicity to spread child abuse images and traffic drugs, and failure to comply with law enforcement. Durov was ordered to post bail and placed under court monitoring in Paris.
A fire in a school dormitory in Kenya has killed 18 students, with 27 hospitalized and 70 children unaccounted for. The cause of the fire is being investigated.
Palestinian neurosurgeon Husam Abukhedeir left Gaza for the UAE due to war conditions, endangering his family. Despite hope, he feels dampened by ongoing suffering. He lost his sister in an Israeli airstrike, struggles with guilt for leaving, and faces challenges in the UAE. His family in Gaza suffers from lack of resources and he is unable to provide immediate help.
The Chinese government is mostly ending its international adoption program, impacting hundreds of families from the U.S. and around the world. The only exception will be for families adopting blood relatives' children in China.
South Korean authorities are responding to the increasing use of deepfakes for digital sex abuse, with a crackdown on Telegram chat rooms distributing fake sexual images. The victims, mostly women and teenagers, face violations of privacy and trust. The purpose behind these deepfakes is often to belittle women and express misogyny. Women's rights groups blame the government for not addressing the root cause of sexism, while the legal system struggles to recognize digital sex abuse as a serious crime.
Protests in Israel demand a ceasefire deal with Hamas after the death of six hostages. No agreement has been reached yet.
Luis Montero Adams and his sister Stephanie Machado, U.S. citizens living in Mexico, faced challenges after 9/11 forced them to make a choice about their education and life between two countries.
Gisèle Pélicot testified in an Avignon court about being drugged by her ex-husband and raped by other men while unconscious. Her ex-husband and 50 others are on trial for aggravated rape. She hopes her testimony will help prevent similar ordeals for other women.
Eight-year-old Maykol Fares fulfills his dream of riding the carousel in Flushing Meadows Park after years of waiting and training, despite challenges faced as an immigrant from Ecuador. He fearlessly chooses to ride the lion and emerges victorious, declaring it an 'extreme' experience.
Former Philippines mayor Alice Guo, accused of ties to Chinese criminal syndicates and money laundering, arrived in Manila after being deported from Indonesia. She denies the accusations and is wanted by the Philippine Senate for refusing to appear before an investigation.
A fire in a school dormitory in Kenya killed 17 students and seriously burned 13 others. The cause of the fire is under investigation. School fires are common in Kenyan boarding schools.
Super Typhoon Yagi makes landfall in China, causing widespread disruption and evacuations. It is the biggest storm in Asia this year and the second-most powerful tropical cyclone of 2024. Classes are canceled, streets deserted, and flights disrupted in Hong Kong, Macau, Hainan, and Guangdong. The storm has left 16 dead in the Philippines and is expected to head towards Vietnam and Laos.
The summer of 2024 was the hottest on record, increasing the likelihood of 2024 being the hottest year in history. Global average temperature exceeded previous records, highlighting the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
China and the United States are working on narrowing their differences on climate issues, including climate finance, during talks in Beijing. Progress has been made despite some friction in the bilateral relationship.
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado vows to keep pressure on President Nicolás Maduro to leave office in January. She urges international community to recognize her faction's presidential candidate as election winner and hold government officials accountable for abuses. Recent events include arrest warrant for opposition diplomat, protests, and international condemnation of Maduro's actions.
The U.S. government secured the release of 135 Nicaraguan political prisoners who arrived in Guatemala and will apply for entry to the United States or other countries. The prisoners were released on humanitarian grounds, and the Nicaraguan government received nothing in exchange. The U.S. continues to pressure the government of President Daniel Ortega for unjustly detaining people.
The U.S. is preparing for a more severe version of mpox, known as clade 1, which has caused over 600 deaths in Africa. The government is expanding surveillance efforts, making testing more widely available, and ensuring vaccines are accessible for high-risk individuals.
African leaders attend summit in Beijing to strengthen ties with China, with President Xi Jinping proposing upgraded relations to a strategic level.
Pope Francis visits Indonesia and issues joint statement on climate change with the grand imam at the biggest mosque in the country.
10-year-old Tala Hussam Abou Agwa tragically died in a blast in Gaza while roller skating with her friends.
Hvaldimir, a beloved beluga whale and alleged Russian spy, was found dead in Norway under mysterious circumstances. Two conservation groups suspect he was shot and filed a police report. An autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz warns against forming a coalition with far-right party AfD that triumphed in state legislature election. AfD's growing popularity is pulling other parties right and weakening mainstream politics in Germany.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces protests and criticism for his controversial demand in cease-fire talks following the killings of six hostages in Hamas captivity, threatening progress in negotiations. Leaders across the Middle East express anger and opposition to Netanyahu's stance.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects U.S. optimism over a cease-fire deal with Hamas, citing red lines and blaming Hamas for wanting Israel out of Gaza. Negotiations have been complicated by hostage killings and hard-line stances. Families of American hostages urge White House to consider unilateral deal. Netanyahu insists on maintaining military presence in Philadelphi corridor. Deal remains elusive due to disagreements over prisoner exchange and troop redeployment.
Hamas releases propaganda video of American hostage, urging world to focus on cease-fire deal after his death. Parents call for action to secure release of remaining hostages in Hamas' captivity.
The White House requested an investigation into the death of 26-year-old American woman, Aysenur Eygi, in the occupied West Bank, who was shot in the head during an anti-settlement demonstration. Eygi was the only non-Palestinian among 18 demonstrators killed in Beita since 2020.
Civilians in Pokrovsk, Ukraine are preparing for heavy fighting as Russian forces approach, with some choosing to flee while others remain defiant and determined to stay.
Ukrainian President Zelensky calls for more weaponry from the US and Western nations to strike deep into Russia. Recent deadly airstrikes by Russia have intensified the need for greater capabilities. The US is rushing $250 million in security assistance to Kyiv.
A bus company operating in South Texas is facing a million-dollar lawsuit for alleged negligence during cartel kidnappings in Mexico, where passengers were taken at gunpoint. The lawsuit claims the company did not inform customers of the danger or take steps to protect them.
Ongoing disruptions to global shipping caused by Iran-backed Houthi terrorists are making shipping more expensive, leading to service reconfigurations, delays, and shortages. The Red Sea situation poses challenges for the Biden-Harris administration and Western forces are unable to protect salvage teams from Houthi attacks.
Indonesian police arrest seven people allegedly connected to an Islamic terror plot to attack Pope Francis during his visit to the country. The suspects made threats via social media and were upset about the Pope's visit to Jakarta's Istiqlal mosque.
Unusual torrential rain is hitting the Sahara Desert, causing freak thunderstorms and high levels of rainfall in Mali and Mauritania. The weather anomaly is attributed to a shift in the intertropical convergence zone and a record positive North Atlantic Oscillation.
Chinese migrants are leaving China for Mexico in search of opportunities, freedom, and better financial prospects. Many are starting businesses in Mexico's capital, taking advantage of the country's proximity to the U.S. The new wave of Chinese immigrants is diverse and includes individuals from various regions of China.
Philadelphia Eagles players expressed concerns and fears about the high crime rate in Brazil before a game, unaware that Philadelphia has a higher murder rate. The NFL's international game in Brazil has faced backlash due to these comments.
Three individuals share their experiences contracting the viral disease known as monkeypox, highlighting symptoms such as lesions, fever, headaches, and throat issues. Despite initial assumptions of STIs, they were diagnosed with monkeypox, with limited medical treatment options available. The individuals recovered after facing challenges and isolation due to the virus.
Amazon's Project Kuiper is making strides in the satellite internet space race, with regulatory approval granted by the US and potential approval from the UK. The project aims to launch over 3,000 satellites into space to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink.
Hamas released videos of Israeli hostages, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Netanyahu. Parents of victim urge for action. Negotiations for a cease-fire deal face obstacles. Biden administration believes a deal can be reached.
Surging anti-Semitism following Hamas's October 7 attack in Gaza has sparked fear in Jewish communities worldwide, with a dramatic increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Europe and the US. Envoys warn of a tsunami of anti-Semitism reminiscent of World War II, with synagogues being firebombed, Jewish students attacked, and a normalization of anti-Semitism spreading online.
Nazi uniforms have been banned from a 1940s-themed festival in north Norfolk after a brawl broke out last year. The festival organizers updated rules to refuse entry to anyone dressed in German or Axis military uniforms.
The US has detected increased Russian military activity around key undersea cables, raising concerns about potential sabotage operations that could disrupt critical communications infrastructure worldwide.
A beluga whale nicknamed Whaledimir, believed to be part of a Russian research program, was found dead in Norway. Speculation arose about his death being intentional, possibly linked to espionage. Whales have been used for military purposes before, including espionage and mine hunting.
Violence erupted in Bangladesh during anti-government protests, resulting in over 1,000 deaths and 400 students losing their eyesight. The protests were initially against public sector job quotas but escalated into an uprising against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who later resigned and fled the country.
South Korea's top court ruled that the country's climate change law did not adequately protect basic human rights and future generations. Activists had filed petitions alleging the government's failure to effectively tackle climate change. The court asked the legislature to revise the carbon neutrality act by 2026 to align with constitutional rights and protect against a climate crisis. The ruling was seen as a significant step towards climate action in Asia.
New Zealand's Maori King Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII passed away at age 69 after heart surgery. He succeeded his mother as Maori monarch in 2006. The role is ceremonial and not hereditary. The King Movement aims to unite indigenous tribes against colonialism.
Ukrainian forces launched a surprise attack on Russian territory, gaining ground and holding nearly 500 square miles. Russian troops have not been able to push them back, leading to a stalemate. Both sides are focused on advancing in enemy territory while leaving their own vulnerable. The situation is tense, with fears of escalation and potential long-term occupation.
After an eight-year FBI investigation, five crates of human relics, including skulls and effigies, were repatriated to Vanuatu from New York. The items were stolen from a sacred men's house in a bush village and seized from the estate of a deceased New York collector. The return of the items posed a logistical challenge due to their fragility. The effigies hold great cultural and historical significance to the Vanuatu people.
An F-16 warplane provided to Ukraine by Western partners crashed during Russia's invasion, resulting in the death of the pilot. The crash was the first reported loss of an F-16 in Ukraine. The F-16s were seen as an opportunity to counter Russia's air superiority.
Indian authorities capture one of three wolves responsible for killing six children and a woman in Uttar Pradesh. Villages in the district of Bahriach are on high alert, with measures taken to protect residents from further attacks.
Basel, Switzerland will host the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest, selected over Geneva. The event draws millions of viewers worldwide, with the last Swiss winner being in 1988. The contest is organized by the European Broadcasting Union.
Taiwan's defense ministry says China lacks the ability to fully invade Taiwan due to equipment limitations but is developing advanced weapons and exploring other options to threaten Taiwan, such as inspecting foreign cargo ships.
Norwegian Princess Martha Louise is set to marry American spiritual healer Durek Verrett amid controversy over his controversial views and business practices. The royal family faces criticism for their association with Verrett and his unconventional beliefs.
Ukrainian President fires air force commander after F-16 crash during Russian bombardment, Russian attack on Kharkiv kills 6, EU to boost training program for Ukrainian troops.
Israel Police released video showing operations in the occupied West Bank with aftermath of airstrikes in areas surrounding Jenin.
Yemen's Houthi rebels released video of planting explosives on a Greek-flagged tanker, risking a major oil spill in the Red Sea.
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and her American Shaman fiancé, Durek Verrett, have arrived in Norway for their wedding in Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Israel and Hamas agree to three-day pauses in fighting to allow for polio vaccination campaigns for children in Gaza. UN aims to vaccinate 640,000 kids amid global alarm after first polio case in Gaza in 25 years.
Houthi rebels attacked a Greek-flagged tanker in the Red Sea, risking a major oil spill. Western countries and the UN are working to prevent an environmental catastrophe.
San Francisco State University has pulled investments from three companies following demonstrations by pro-Palestinian activists. The move was made after students camped out and protested for three weeks, demanding divestment from companies profiting from Israel's occupation of Palestinian land and the war in Gaza.
Polio vaccinations have arrived in Gaza to combat an outbreak of the potentially fatal virus, but the sanitation crisis remains dire due to destroyed infrastructure and lack of hygiene supplies. The situation has led to the first case of polio in Gaza in 25 years, highlighting the urgent need for vaccinations and improved sanitation conditions.
Yazidi community in Iraq faces renewed threats and violence from hard-line mullahs, leading to fear and potential displacement, reminiscent of the 2014 ISIS genocide.
Far-right party AfD may become strongest in state election in former East Germany, challenging the central governing coalition. The party, known for anti-immigration and denial of human-caused climate change, is gaining popularity at local and national levels. Issues include Russia-Ukraine war, slow economic growth, green energy transition, and migration debate. Populism is on the rise, challenging traditional coalition models. Immigration and recent terror attack fueling support for AfD. Mainstream parties facing challenges. Chancellor Olaf Scholz taking a rightward stance on deportation of criminals.
Houthis, a Shiite jihadist group, claimed responsibility for attacking a Greek oil tanker in the Red Sea, leaving it abandoned with 150,000 tons of crude oil. The group planted explosives on the ship and posted a video showing their control over the waters. International efforts to stop them have failed.
Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz avoided discussing China during their 2024 campaign events, despite significant issues with China including patent disputes, espionage accusations, and aggressive actions in the South China Sea.
A 32-year-old woman was arrested after a knife attack on a bus in Germany, injuring six people. No political or religious motive was found. Three of the victims are in life-threatening condition. The attack took place in Siegen, east of Cologne, on the way to a local festival.
Ukrainian President fired air force commander after F-16 crash during Russian bombardment, Russian attack on Kharkiv kills 6, Ukrainian rockets hit Belgorod, calls for Western partners to scrap restrictions on weapon targets, EU to boost training program for Ukrainian troops
Bouvet Island is a remote 19 mile isle in the South Atlantic Ocean, almost 1,500 miles away from human life, with a mysterious past and a unique ecosystem. It is haunted by unsolved mysteries including an abandoned boat in 1964 and a mysterious flash of light in 1979.
A Chinese Coast Guard ship collides with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel near the disputed South China Sea, sparking tensions between the two countries over the maritime territory.
The far right AfD party is gaining popularity in German state elections, causing concern and division among the population. The rise of the AfD is fueled by discontent with migration policies, green initiatives, and perceived state interference. The east-west divide in Germany is also a significant factor in the party's support.
China sent three icebreakers to the Arctic while a US vessel aborted its mission due to a fire. China claims to be a near-Arctic state, causing concerns in other Arctic states. The US updated its Arctic strategy amid growing cooperation between China and Russia.
Princes Harry and William attended the funeral of their uncle Lord Robert Fellowes, but sat apart and did not speak to each other. Lord Fellowes was Diana's brother-in-law and served as the Queen's Private Secretary. The brothers have had minimal contact since Megxit.
Tensions between migrants and French police in a small northern France town have escalated, leading to violent clashes and concerns among locals. The conflict arises as migrants try to cross the English Channel into the UK amid increased police crackdown on people smugglers.
Members of the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, or TdA, are reportedly moving through Mexico towards the U.S. border, posing a threat due to their criminal activities including human trafficking and drug trafficking.
An American archaeologist died after a Viking boat capsized off the coast of Norway. Five people escaped on a life raft, while the sixth person, 29-year-old Karla Dana, was found deceased. The U.S. State Department confirmed the death of an American citizen. The incident was described as a tragic accident.
Namibia plans to cull 723 wild animals, including 83 elephants, to distribute meat to people struggling due to severe drought in southern Africa.
Hundreds of thousands of dead fish have poured into a tourist port in Volos, Greece, after being displaced from their usual habitats during flooding last year, creating a significant environmental and economic impact on the area.
An American archeologist died after a Viking ship replica capsized off the coast of Norway during a journey from the Faroe Islands. Five crew members were rescued, but one woman drowned. The victim was identified as 29-year-old Karla Dana from Florida. Authorities believe a strong wave caused the ship to capsize. The U.S. State Department confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen and extended condolences to the family. Rescue efforts were hampered by challenging weather conditions and darkness. Dana was described as an archeologist and ethnographic field researcher who had expressed excitement about the journey on social media.
Israeli military and Hamas agree to three-day pauses in fighting in Gaza to allow vaccination of 640,000 children against polio.
Content creator in Gaza, Medo Halimy, dies after being hit by shrapnel in Israeli airstrike. Known for sharing videos about life in war-torn Gaza. Tributes pour in for his resilience and positivity. Had a significant following on social media platforms.
The Biden administration is urging Israel to make changes to its evacuation orders in Gaza, which have led to repeated displacement of civilians. The U.S. is concerned about the impact on the Palestinian population and the decreasing 'humanitarian zone'. Talks are ongoing to reach a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas.
Namibia plans to cull 723 wild animals, including 83 elephants, to distribute meat to people struggling due to severe drought in southern Africa.
Honduras ends century-old extradition treaty with the U.S. after meeting between Honduran and Venezuelan defense officials, accusing U.S. of meddling in country's affairs.
Spanish chef Daniel Sancho Bronchalo sentenced to life in prison for the premeditated murder of Colombian plastic surgeon Edwin Arrieta Arteaga in Thailand. Sancho dismembered the victim's body and disposed of the parts. He claimed self-defense in a scuffle that led to Arrieta's death. Sancho's father, a prominent Spanish actor, attended the court session.
National security adviser Jake Sullivan met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing to stabilize ties between the U.S. and China, with plans for a future phone call between Presidents Biden and Xi. The two countries are working to manage their relationship, improve communication between their militaries, and prevent conflict in the Asia-Pacific region.
The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) is investigating top officials in Sudan for fraud, including concealing the Sudanese army's role in obstructing aid. The conflict in Sudan has led to mass starvation, displacement, and atrocities. The WFP officials are accused of misleading donors about aid deliveries. The crisis in Sudan is described as catastrophic.
Foiled plot to attack Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna involved suspects linked to ISIS seeking to kill tens of thousands of fans. CIA discovered intelligence, leading to arrests and cancellation of shows. Swift expressed fear and guilt over cancellations but prioritized safety. Plot reminiscent of 2017 attack at Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.
The Labour Party government in Britain is considering encouraging police to record 'non-crime hate incidents' to combat hate speech. The incidents, not rising to the level of a crime, can have serious consequences for individuals. Plans are drawing pushback from groups like the Free Speech Union.
Chinese President Xi Jinping lectured U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on the need for the U.S. to align with China's interests during a recent meeting in Beijing. The meeting focused on promoting mutual respect and cooperation while avoiding confrontation or exclusion.
Apollo Quiboloy, a self-proclaimed 'owner of the universe', is wanted by the FBI for human trafficking and sexual abuse allegations. He is hiding in an underground church compound with a human shield of followers. Authorities suspect he may have fled through a secret tunnel.
A Jamaican teenager was decapitated by a shark while spearfishing alone on Jamaica's north coast. His body was found with his head and left arm missing, sparking shock and sadness in the community.
The Office of the Inspector General at the U.S. Agency for International Development released a report on the construction of a $230 million pier off the coast of Gaza, which faced challenges and ultimately shut down after 20 days. The pier aimed to enhance aid delivery to Gaza but critics questioned its efficiency and cost.
Archaeologists in Israel discover a rare stone seal from the First Temple period, affirming the biblical role of Jerusalem 2,700 years ago. The seal depicts a winged figure and a Hebrew name inscribed in paleo-Hebrew script.
A rare toy dating to the Viking Age was found in Iceland during an archaeological excavation. The toy, made of stone, is believed to represent an animal, with theories suggesting it could be a pig, bear, or Icelandic dog. The discovery sheds light on children in the Viking Age, as few artifacts related to them have been found in Iceland.
Fox News reports on Russia and China sending war planes off the coast of Alaska to test U.S. response time. Former editors of Stand News convicted of sedition in Hong Kong as authorities restrict free press. Pro-democracy activists facing national security charges in Hong Kong.
Venezuelan President Maduro's claimed victory in a rigged election has led to widespread protests and arrests. Russia has sent its Baltic Fleet to support Maduro, causing concern in the U.S. and Europe. The U.S. and EU reject Maduro's victory and support his opposition leader. Mediation attempts have failed, and Maduro continues his crackdown with Putin's assistance.
Former Navy SEAL Cameron Hamilton discusses the violence faced by Israeli forces. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed to have killed a leading Palestinian battle commander, Muhhamad Jabber, also known as 'Abu Shujaa.'
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah owns the world's largest private car collection worth $5 billion, including 500 Rolls-Royce cars. He also owns the largest residential palace covered in 22-carat gold. His total net worth is $30 billion, mostly from oil reserves and natural gas.
Billionaire Telegram founder Pavel Durov indicted on charges including spreading child abuse images, drug trafficking. Former President Trump shared TikTok video violating federal law. False claims of noncitizen voting used as pretext to raise obstacles for voters. Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to have joint interview on CNN. Paul Robeson, an important figure in Black history, to have all recordings available in new book and box set. Ukrainian diaspora celebrates Independence Day in traditional attire in Washington, D.C. Murder suspect crashes through ceiling while hiding in Memphis home.
Hundreds of thousands of dead fish washed ashore in Volos, Greece due to extreme weather events. The rotting fish are causing a stench and major drop in tourism-dependent businesses in the area.