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Joe Biden ‘optimistic’ about Middle East ceasefire despite Israeli bombings in Gaza and Lebanon
The US president's words come as regional tensions have risen in recent weeks, with fatal Israeli attacks reported in Gaza and Lebanon. US President Joe Biden has expressed greater optimism about a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas than in previous months. "As of an hour ago, we were still playing. I am optimistic. It's still not over. "Just a couple more issues, and I believe we have a shot," he told reporters on Friday.
The fastest charger can charge your phone in 4.5 minutes
Nothing is more frustrating than realising your phone is about to die just as you leave the house. But that annoyance may soon be over, as smartphone maker Realme unveils a charger that can charge your phone in only five minutes. The Chinese tech manufacturer's new SuperSonic Charge Technology can charge a phone with up to 320W of power, which is 16 times more than a typical iPhone charger.
How far has mpox spread, and what can you do to protect yourself?
At least two nations outside Africa have reported pox cases since the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the virus a "public health emergency" earlier this week. Clade 1, a relatively new virus variant, has spread in African countries since 2022. Earlier this year, it was claimed that the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was witnessing the largest outbreak of the disease ever recorded, with tens of thousands affected by June. The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo designated it an epidemic in December 2022.
Hull protest organiser apologises to mosque worshipper following far-right brawl
John Francis, the founder of Hull Patriotic Protesters, staged the anti-illegal immigration march in the aftermath of a knife attack in Southport that killed three young girls. The leader of a Hull rally that resulted in racist violence has admitted that referring to minor boat migrants as "an influx of illegal invaders" was not "the best choice of words". However, he claimed that his march had been hijacked and denied racism.
As war looms over Lebanon, refugees wonder how they may live
In 2014, the Syrian regime launched a missile against Alaa's residential building in Aleppo, Syria. Alaa, 13, and his family, which included his mother, father, and two sisters, escaped the explosion and fled to Lebanon. Today, Alaa works as a hairdresser in Beirut and is concerned about the possibility of another battle between the Lebanese party Hezbollah and Israel. "A war would affect everyone here: Lebanese and Syrian," Alaa explained outside a barbershop in Hamra, a thriving neighbourhood in West Beirut. "Whatever occurs, happens. "I live day to day."
Biden claims the Gaza ceasefire arrangement is closer than ever
Joe Biden stated that he was "optimistic" about reaching a ceasefire accord in Gaza. "We are closer than we've ever been," the US president said after the latest round of talks, adding that he was sending his secretary of state to Israel to continue the "intensive efforts to conclude this agreement". However, a senior Hamas official stated that there had been no development and that mediators were "selling illusions".
Increase in youth disability claims, data shows
In 2023, more than 682,000 young persons got Child Disability Living Allowance (DLA), an increase from 333,000 in 2013. A new study found that the number of young individuals claiming disability payments has more than doubled in the last decade. According to data conducted by the Resolution Foundation, 1.2 million children in England and Wales have a disability, with teenagers experiencing the most significant increase.
Somerset House: 100 firemen tackle blaze at London gallery
About 100 firemen are battling a fire at Somerset House in downtown London. A pillar of smoke was spotted emerging from the roof of the historic stately residence on the Strand. The London Fire Brigade received the initial call about the fire at 11:59 a.m. on Saturday. The London Fire Brigade said 15 fire engines had been dispatched to quell the blaze.
Ukraine hopes that their push into Russia influences the fate of the war
"Every war ends with diplomacy. It is not the warriors in the trenches that determine when." Arni joined the Ukrainian army in 2022 to ensure his country's survival. When we meet again 30 months later, he describes a new motivation. "Peace." "No one likes war, and we want to end it," he says, leaning against his camouflaged pick-up truck.
Caitlin Clark scores 29 in first post-Olympics game as Fever threaten playoff place
Caitlin Clark had 29 points and 10 assists Friday night in Indianapolis, helping the Indiana Fever build a comfortable lead early and hold off the Phoenix Mercury for a 98-89 win. It was the Fever's (12-15) first game since the Olympic break, as the young squad returned to the WNBA season after nearly a month off to continue its pursuit of a playoff spot. The Mercury (14-13) were playing the second of two road games in a row. However, the Mercury did not do as well against the Fever. Their lack of defensive containment against the Fever's backcourt contributed significantly to their defeat.
More mortgage rate cuts as Nationwide offers 3.83%
Major lenders continue to cut mortgage rates daily, with Nationwide launching a new market-best purchase tomorrow. The building society is preparing a five-year fixed rate of 3.83 per cent, the lowest mortgage available from any lender. It applies to both new and existing Nationwide customers who are moving house. It costs £1,499. The mortgage has a 4.1 percent interest rate if no fees are paid.
Mason stripped of SNP whip due to ‘unacceptable’ Gaza posts
SNP MSP John Mason has been stripped of his party whip after making "completely unacceptable" social media statements on the conflict in Gaza. The action comes only days after External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson was spotted standing alongside Israel's Deputy Ambassador to the UK, Daniela Grudsky . Many SNP figures are harshly critical of Israel's actions in the Middle East, and the diplomatic encounter sparked an internal backlash.