A fireworks warehouse near Esparto, California, exploded on Tuesday evening, causing mandatory evacuations and sending debris soaring thousands of feet. The blast, which shook the surrounding area, ignited spot fires across 80 acres. Firefighters contained the blaze, dubbed the "Oakdale Fire," and are investigating the cause, with no injuries reported immediately.
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Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of 34 Palestinians, including displaced people sheltering at the Palestine Stadium. These attacks occurred amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations, with US President Trump expressing optimism for a deal within the week. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 56,000 Palestinians, while severe shortages of food and essential supplies plague Gaza.
Amidst escalating tensions, Donald Trump expressed discontent with Vladimir Putin following Russia's intensified attacks on Ukraine, hinting at potential sanctions. Ukraine retaliated by striking a Russian air base, showcasing its ability to target strategic assets. Trump acknowledged Ukraine's urgent need for Patriot missiles for defense, especially with paused US military aid shipments.
The US Justice Department has charged two Chinese nationals with espionage, alleging they worked to infiltrate the US military. Yuance Chen and Liren Lai are accused of photographing a naval base, arranging a secret cash drop, and attempting to recruit US military personnel.
Donald Trump and Melania Trump welcomed Edan Alexander, the last living American hostage held in Gaza, to the White House. Alexander, an American-Israeli abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, was held for 584 days before his release on May 12, 2025. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to bringing all hostages home, having previously met with other freed hostages in March.
Johnny Noviello, a 49-year-old Canadian citizen in ICE custody at a Miami detention center, was pronounced dead on June 23. He was awaiting removal proceedings following a conviction for racketeering and drug trafficking. Canadian officials have been notified and are seeking further information, while ICE is investigating the cause of death.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with Syria's interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, in Damascus, marking the restoration of formal ties after 14 years. The UK pledged £94.5 million in aid for emergency relief, education, and livelihood projects.
In Georgia, Adriana Smith, a brain-dead pregnant Black woman, was kept on life support due to state abortion restrictions. After giving birth prematurely to a son, Chance, via emergency C-section, she was removed from life support. The case highlights the impact of strict abortion laws following the overturning of Roe v Wade, particularly affecting Black women facing medical neglect.
Abu Dhabi successfully tested a flying taxi, a big step for future transport. The test was done with Archer Aviation before launching air taxi services in 2026. The goal is to create a complete aviation system, including training and manufacturing. Testing will continue to check how the aircraft works in Abu Dhabi's climate.
Escalating tensions between Israel and Iran pose a significant destabilization risk for volatile African regions, particularly the Horn of Africa, already facing its deepest crisis in decades. Interconnected alliances between groups like the Houthis and Al-Shabab, coupled with diminishing Western support, could exacerbate conflicts and create security gaps across the continent.
Saudi Arabia and Indonesia have solidified their partnership with $27 billion in economic and strategic agreements during Indonesian President's visit. The nations will collaborate on energy, defence, and cybersecurity, aligning with Saudi's Vision 2030 and Indonesia's green transition. They aim to boost cooperation against terrorism, enhance cybersecurity, and promote emerging technologies.