US President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the release of all remaining hostages by noon on Saturday. Trump warned of severe consequences if Hamas fails to comply, while Israel awaits the release of three hostages under the ongoing ceasefire agreement.
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The US-mediated talks between Russia and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia concluded without a ceasefire agreement. Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, demanded a new Black Sea trade deal benefiting Russian exports. US officials had brief discussions with Ukrainian delegates, but no progress was made.
Los Angeles firefighters are using Phos-Chek, a bright pink fire retardant, to combat wildfires threatening lives and property. Developed by Perimeter Solutions, Phos-Chek helps slow the spread of flames. The retardant contains water, ammonium phosphate fertiliser, and a thickening agent creating a fire-resistant barrier. Winds over 70 mph could impede efforts, emphasizing the unpredictability of the situation.
Lahore has been declared the world's most polluted city with an AQI of 354, while Karachi ranks 13th with an AQI of 164. These figures highlight critical pollution levels in Pakistan, due to vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and crop burning. The severe air quality issues are causing widespread respiratory illnesses and coinciding with a measles outbreak, straining healthcare systems.
An Al-Qaeda-linked jihadist group claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a Beninese army post near the Burkina Faso and Niger borders, killing at least 28 troops. This raid highlights the increasing attacks in northern Benin, despite ongoing military operations and international support.
​Mark Zuckerberg reportedly once tried to buy TikTok and then he had all love lost for TikTok -- he even said TikTok is a threat to democracy. Now that Mark Zuckerberg is apparently toeing the line of Donald Trump, conspiracy theories claim that it could be either Elon Musk or Mark Zuckerberg.
Former South Korean President Moon Jae-in denounced his indictment on bribery charges as unjust and politically motivated. Prosecutors allege Moon received bribes totaling 217 million won from Lee Sang-jik, founder of Thai Eastar Jet, via a no-show job for Moon's son-in-law. Moon claims prosecutors are abusing their power and pushing a predetermined narrative.
John McFall, a British surgeon and former Paralympian, has been cleared for a long-duration mission onboard the International Space Station, making him the first-ever astronaut with a physical disability. McFall, who lost a leg in a motorbike accident, has been applauded for this significant cultural shift. ESA's announcement underscores commitment to inclusivity, despite recent DEI challenges.
NASA astronaut Don Pettit's video of dressing in zero gravity has gone viral. In the clip, Pettit uniquely slides into his pants with both legs simultaneously, showcasing the lighter side of life on the ISS. The video has garnered significant social media attention, highlighting the novelty and challenges of mundane tasks in space.
Donald Trump's trade policies created confusion. He suspended import taxes after initially imposing them. This action followed market instability. Businesses faced uncertainty and some delayed plans. Companies like Stellantis and Cleveland-Cliffs cut jobs. The Federal Reserve noted hiring pauses. Delta Air Lines saw stalled travel demand. Trade tensions with China escalated. The WTO warned of global economic damage.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under scrutiny after bringing his wife, Jennifer, to meetings with foreign military officials where sensitive information was discussed. The Signal chat leak involving senior Trump officials has intensified, raising national security concerns and resulting in calls for Hegseth's resignation.