Gunfire and explosions rocked Mali's capital and other key cities in one of the most significant coordinated attacks in years, as armed groups exploited worsening insecurity in the Sahel region.
U.S. and Iranian negotiators met separately with Qatari and Pakistani mediators in Dubai on Wednesday, with Qatar reporting "positive progress" and agreeing to continue discussions. Key sticking points include the Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon, with Iran asserting control over the waterway and demanding an end to fighting in Lebanon.
Venezuela is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis following its worst earthquake in over a century. The disaster, with a 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude double quake, has claimed nearly 2,000 lives, injured over 10,000, and left tens of thousands missing. The government's slow response has fueled public anger, with residents taking rescue efforts into their own hands amidst widespread destruction and displacement.
Extreme heat warnings are in effect for New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, with temperatures expected to reach the high 90s and potentially exceed 100°F. A heat dome is trapping heat and humidity, raising concerns for public health and July 4th celebrations.
Mourners gathered in Lahore, Pakistan, to bury 14 schoolchildren killed when the roof of a tutoring center collapsed. Police are investigating negligence during ongoing construction work as the likely cause, with two arrests made.
A severe heat wave is hitting the eastern US, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits and high humidity. This poses significant risks for World Cup matches scheduled in cities like Philadelphia, Kansas City, and Miami, prompting heat warnings and safety concerns.
A life-size statue by Banksy, titled "Flag Man," appeared overnight in London's Waterloo Place. The "flag man" statue depicts a man stepping over a precipice while hoisting a flag that covers his face, prompting discussions on nationalism and human shortsightedness.
