World

Israel attacks Rafah, at least 19 Palestinians killed

Israeli attack on Rafah resulted in at least 19 Palestinian deaths, while Hamas claimed responsibility for killing three Israeli soldiers. The attack led to a closure of an aid crossing, escalating tensions. The conflict has caused civilian casualties and heightened calls for a ceasefire to prevent further humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

UN accuses Israel of denying Gaza aid access as famine takes hold

The UN accuses Israel of denying Gaza aid access as famine grips the north, with warnings of it spreading south. The World Food Programme's Executive Director described the situation as a "full-blown famine." UNRWA also accuses Israel of hindering aid efforts and calls on all parties to ensure assistance reaches those in need.

Nepal battles raging wildfires across the country

Nepal battles severe wildfires worsened by climate change, with over 4,500 reported this year, nearly double the previous year. Heatwaves and drought in the southern plains have fueled the fires, making it challenging to extinguish due to the difficult terrain. Rising temperatures and extended heatwaves, attributed to climate change, have intensified the fire season.

Dollar near five-month high

The US dollar approached its 2024 peak against global currencies as US share futures declined before a Federal Reserve decision. The dollar rose over 0.5% and the dollar index reached a five-month high. Expectations for Fed rate cuts diminished after strong first-quarter US employment growth data. There was thin trading due to market closures in Europe and Asia.

Southern China road collapse killed 19: state media

A highway collapse in southern China's Guangdong province resulted in 19 deaths and 30 people receiving emergency care in the hospital. The incident involved 18 vehicles and 49 people, with authorities dispatching 500 personnel to aid in the rescue efforts. Extreme weather events in the region have raised concerns about infrastructure safety.

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia agree to strengthen cooperation in diverse fields

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to strengthen cooperation in various fields. The understanding was reached during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress and discussed increasing economic partnership. The situation in Gaza was also discussed.

US, Egypt hopeful of new Israel-Hamas truce

The US and Egypt express optimism for a potential Israel-Hamas truce. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken both share hope for an impending ceasefire, with Blinken calling the proposal offered to Hamas by Israel "extraordinarily generous." Hamas delegation headed to Cairo for further negotiations.

Humza Yousaf resigned as Scotland’s first minister

Humza Yousaf resigned as first minister, opening opportunity for UK Labour Party to regain ground in Scotland. Yousaf stepped down after scrapping coalition agreement with Greens and failing to secure enough support to survive no-confidence votes, citing need for new leadership. This comes amid SNP's faltering fortunes and rise of Labour in Scottish politics.

Iran slams crackdown on US student protesters

Iran has criticized the US police crackdown on university students protesting the Israel-Hamas war's rising death toll in Gaza. The foreign ministry spokesman denounced the US government's neglect of human rights obligations and democracy principles. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations at American universities triggered clashes with police and 275 arrests, with solidarity protests in Iran.