Category: World

Indian junior doctors continue nationwide protests over the rape and murder of a colleague in Kolkata. The incident has sparked demands for safer workplaces and swift justice. Hospital services are disrupted as doctors refuse to see non-emergency patients. The government urges doctors to return to work while addressing their concerns. Supporters, including soccer fans, have joined the protests. The IMF’s Gita Gopinath emphasizes the importance of workplace safety in increasing female labor force participation in India. Reuters

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka coast at a depth of 51 km, as reported by the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre. While the US National Tsunami Warning Center initially warned of a potential tsunami threat, Russia’s regional emergency ministry stated there was no such danger. Aftershocks ranging from 3.9 to 5.0 in magnitude were recorded, but most were described as imperceptible by local authorities. Reuters

The US has reaffirmed its support for Myanmar’s democratic opposition, meeting virtually with the shadow National Unity Government and ethnic rebel groups. This comes after China endorsed the military junta’s transition plans. US officials praised the opposition’s collaborative efforts and promised continued support for pro-democracy actors. The move contrasts with China’s backing of the junta, whose chief recently met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The US aims to support a transition to civilian governance that respects the will of Myanmar’s people. AFP

North Korea has announced plans to reopen to foreign tourists this winter, starting with the northeastern city of Samjiyon in December. Tour operators, including Beijing-based Koryo Tours, express optimism about the decision after nearly five years of closure due to Covid-19. While initial tours may be chaotic, demand is expected to be strong. The reopening begins with Samjiyon, a gateway to Mount Paektu, though other areas may follow. This marks a significant step towards normalizing tourism in the isolated country. AFP

UNICEF reports that 466 million children globally now face twice as many extremely hot days annually compared to 60 years ago. This increased heat exposure poses serious health risks, particularly for young children and pregnant women. West and Central Africa are most affected, with 39% of children there experiencing over a third of the year at 35°C or higher. UNICEF calls for better education on heat-related illnesses, improved medical training, and urgent action on climate change to protect future generations. AFP

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has dismissed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for appointing a former lawyer with a jail record to his cabinet. This marks the fourth Thai premier in 16 years to be removed by the same court. The decision could lead to political uncertainty and a reset of the governing alliance. Parliament must now convene to choose a new prime minister. Deputy premier Phumtham Wechayachai is expected to serve as caretaker PM in the interim. Reuters

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced he won’t seek re-election as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, effectively ending his premiership after nearly three years. This decision comes amid low approval ratings, economic challenges, and a party funding scandal. Kishida cited the need for party renewal and transparent elections. The LDP will hold a leadership contest next month to choose a new leader, who will likely become the next prime minister of Japan. AFP

Gaza’s 2.3 million displaced residents face extreme heat amid ongoing conflict, exacerbating their already dire situation. Temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F) worsen health issues for those living in tents and overcrowded shelters without electricity or clean water. Aid agencies struggle to deliver services, particularly temperature-sensitive medicines, due to Israeli restrictions. The heat compounds the humanitarian crisis, with agencies like Save the Children adapting their operations to prioritize water, sanitation, and health support in response to these challenging conditions. Reuters

Solar storm hits Earth, sparking geomagnetic activity that could bring auroras to lower latitudes. NOAA reports level-four storm conditions, potentially visible in Alabama and northern California. The storm, caused by coronal mass ejections, may disrupt communications and satellites. Astronauts captured stunning aurora images from space. This event is part of increased solar activity near the Sun’s 11-year cycle peak. AFP

Australia has signed a deal with the US and UK to exchange nuclear secrets and materials, advancing its plan to acquire nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS security accord. The agreement, seen as a response to China’s Pacific ambitions, sets standards for nuclear non-proliferation. Australia will receive nuclear material in sealed units and be responsible for waste management. China has criticized AUKUS, citing nuclear proliferation concerns in the South Pacific. AFP

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered an aircraft carrier group to expedite its arrival in the Middle East amid rising tensions. This move supports Israel following threats from Iran and Hezbollah over recent killings. The USS Abraham Lincoln strike group and USS Georgia submarine are being deployed. Austin discussed civilian protection and ceasefire efforts with Israel’s defense minister. The Gaza conflict, ongoing since October 7, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. AFP

The UN reports global youth unemployment is at a 15-year low, with rates expected to fall further. However, concerns remain about regional disparities, the high number of young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET), and the growing casualization of work. The ILO chief emphasizes the importance of decent youth employment for societal stability and social justice. AFP

The assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in July 2024 has complicated Qatar’s role as a mediator in Middle East conflicts. Qatar, long a hub for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, faces challenges in its diplomatic efforts. The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of mediation when negotiators are targeted. Qatar may now shift focus from brokering peace between Israelis and Palestinians to de-escalating tensions with Iran, as Israeli leadership appears unwilling to engage in meaningful talks. Dhaka Tribune

July 2024 was the second hottest on record globally, ending a 13-month streak of record-breaking temperatures. The planet was 1.48°C warmer than pre-industrial levels. Copernicus attributes this to greenhouse gas emissions and El Niño. Unusual ocean warming was observed outside typical El Niño-affected areas. Arctic and Antarctic sea ice extent decreased, while global sea temperatures remained near record highs. Climate experts express concern over these trends. Retuers

Hamas has appointed Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar as the successor to former political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran last week. Sinwar, the architect of the October 7 attack on Israel, has been in hiding since the war began. This appointment is seen as reinforcing Hamas’ radical stance and could complicate ceasefire negotiations. Israel vows to continue pursuing Sinwar, while the move raises concerns about potential escalation in the ongoing conflict. Reuters

A Russian missile attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine, damaged a medical clinic and injured at least five people. Meanwhile, Russia reported Ukrainian forces attempting to cross the border into Kursk region, which Ukraine hasn’t commented on. Previous incursions into Russia have involved pro-Ukraine Russian fighters. In occupied Donetsk, Russia’s General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov visited troop positions. These events highlight ongoing tensions and military activities along the Russia-Ukraine border. Reuters

Myanmar’s military has withdrawn from positions near China’s border, citing safety concerns. This follows claims by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) that it captured a regional military command in Shan State. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing acknowledged the withdrawal and loss of contact with senior officers. The MNDAA’s offensive has intensified since June, causing civilian casualties and highlighting ongoing conflicts in Myanmar’s borderlands. AFP

The Park Fire in California’s Central Valley has become the state’s fourth-largest wildfire in history, burning over 400,000 acres. More than 6,000 firefighters are battling the blaze in hot conditions with little relief. The fire, allegedly started by an arsonist on July 24, has destroyed over 560 structures. It’s 27% contained as of Saturday, with firefighters facing challenges from winds and potential lightning strikes. Source Reuters

A $4 billion settlement has been reached for lawsuits related to the devastating Maui wildfires of August 2023. Hawaii’s governor announced that the state, Maui County, and Hawaiian Electric will compensate victims. The settlement, pending judicial approval, comes after four months of mediation. It aims to expedite rebuilding efforts for those affected by the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century. AFP

Vice President Kamala Harris, now the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 2024 US election, signaled a shift in Gaza policy after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Harris expressed serious concern about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an end to the “devastating” war. She urged Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire and hostage release deal, emphasizing the need for a Palestinian state. This marks a departure from President Biden’s more behind-the-scenes approach to pressuring Israel. NDTV

A bus crash in southern Peru killed at least 26 people and injured 14 others when it plunged into a 200-meter ravine. The bus was traveling from Lima to Ayacucho. Rescue efforts are underway, with injured passengers taken to hospitals. The accident highlights Peru’s ongoing issues with road safety, as the country saw over 3,100 traffic-related deaths last year. The cause of this crash is still unknown.Source:AFP

Scientists believe a rare spade-toothed whale has washed up on a New Zealand beach. This species has never been seen alive, with only six samples documented worldwide since the 1800s. The 5-meter long body was found in Otago province on July 4. DNA tests are underway to confirm its classification. This find is significant for scientific and conservation purposes, as it may provide the first opportunity to dissect a spade-toothed whale. The species was first described in 1874 but remains largely unknown.

North Korea strongly denounced the recent NATO summit declaration, calling it a threat to global peace and security. The statement criticized U.S. efforts to expand military alliances with NATO and Asian partners. North Korea accused these moves of exacerbating international tensions and sparking an arms race. The NATO declaration had called on China to stop supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine and accused North Korea of providing military aid to Moscow. Reuters

Elon Musk has made a significant donation to America PAC, a super PAC supporting Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. The exact amount is undisclosed but described as “sizable.” This marks a shift in Musk’s political stance, previously self-described as independent. The donation comes as Trump surpasses Biden in fundraising. America PAC focuses on ground-game efforts in battleground states. Musk’s involvement could significantly impact the 2024 election, potentially boosting Republican funding advantages. NDTV

Turkish President Erdogan warned against NATO-Russia conflict at a NATO summit in Washington. He emphasized the need for diplomacy in the Ukraine situation, despite supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Erdogan stressed Turkey’s balanced approach, maintaining ties with both Russia and Ukraine. He downplayed the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as an alternative to NATO. Erdogan also called for more NATO involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict, warning of potential escalation in the region. AFP

Russia has added Yulia Navalnaya, widow of opposition leader Alexei Navalny, to its “terrorists and extremists” list. This follows an arrest warrant issued for her on extremism charges. Navalnaya, who vowed to continue her late husband’s work, is now in exile. The move comes as part of Russia’s ongoing crackdown on opposition figures. Navalnaya’s press secretary views this as a sign that her actions are effective against Putin’s government. NDTV

The WHO reports that Covid-19 is still causing about 1,700 deaths weekly worldwide. Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warns of declining vaccine coverage among high-risk groups, including health workers and people over 60. The WHO recommends these groups receive a Covid-19 vaccine within 12 months of their last dose. Despite declaring an end to the public health emergency in May 2023, the WHO urges governments to maintain surveillance and ensure access to tests, treatments, and vaccines. AFP

Neuralink reports stability in brain chip implant wires for its first trial participant, Noland Arbaugh. The company plans to implement risk mitigation measures for future implants. Elon Musk hopes to have up to nine participants this year. The device allows paralyzed patients to control digital devices through thought. Neuralink is developing a new, more efficient device with fewer electrodes. The FDA approved human trials last year despite initial safety concerns. NDTV

American climber William Stampfl’s body, missing since 2002, was recovered in Peru’s Huascaran National Park as glaciers retreat. Found at 5,200 meters altitude, the mummified remains were well-preserved. Peru’s tropical glaciers, among the world’s most vulnerable, have decreased by 56% in six decades. The retreating ice is exposing long-buried artifacts and bodies.Source:Daily Star

NATO allies began transferring F-16 jets to Ukraine and pledged $43 billion in military aid at the alliance’s 75th anniversary summit in Washington. President Biden announced new air defense systems for Ukraine and the placement of long-range missiles in Germany. NATO leaders reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s eventual membership and expressed concern over China’s support for Russia. The summit aimed to strengthen NATO’s unity and commitment to Ukraine amid political uncertainties in the United States. NDTV

Denmark plans to introduce the world’s first carbon tax on livestock by 2030, targeting methane emissions from cattle and pigs. The tax will start at 300 kroner per tonne of CO2 equivalent, rising to 750 kroner by 2035. While environmental groups cautiously welcome the move, farmers’ associations criticize it as an “uncertain experiment.” The plan includes measures to soften the impact on farmers and reinvest revenue into agricultural ecological transition.Source:Daily Star

At the NATO summit in Washington, President Biden announced additional air defense support for Ukraine, including a Patriot system. He reaffirmed commitment to Ukraine’s independence despite concerns about his political future. NATO leaders emphasized unity against Russia and the importance of supporting Ukraine. Meanwhile, former President Trump criticized NATO and claimed credit for strengthening it. Ukrainian President Zelensky thanked allies for support and stressed the global significance of the upcoming US election.Source:Daily Star

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin, amid global outcry over Russian strikes in Ukraine. Modi aims to balance India’s longstanding ties with Russia and growing Western relations. The visit comes as India remains a major buyer of Russian oil and weapons, while also seeking to diversify its arms suppliers. After Moscow, Modi will make a historic visit to Vienna.Source:Daily Star

Pope Francis visited Trieste, Italy, warning about the state of global democracy and the dangers of populism. He cautioned against ideological temptations and polarization without naming specific countries. The Pope’s brief trip precedes a 12-day Asia tour in September. Francis has been limiting his travel due to health concerns but plans to visit Indonesia, Singapore, Papua New Guinea, and East Timor in his longest papal journey yet. Source AFP

Exit polls predict a landslide victory for Britain’s Labour Party in the general election, with Keir Starmer set to become Prime Minister. The polls suggest Labour will win 410 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons, while the Conservative Party is projected to secure only 131 seats. This result would end 14 years of Conservative rule and mark Labour’s first election win since 2005. Starmer has promised “a decade of national renewal” if elected. Source AFP

Israel’s military chief reports killing about 900 militants in Rafah since early May, including high-ranking commanders. The offensive in the southernmost Gaza city is expected to conclude within weeks. The focus is now on destroying infrastructure, including underground facilities. Rafah was previously a refuge for civilians fleeing Israeli bombardments elsewhere in Gaza. The prolonged campaign aims to thoroughly dismantle militant infrastructure in the area.