America Has a New Ally in Syria and Wants Israel to Get on Board

Torrential rain has led to severe flooding in the Pacific north-west, prompting Washington state to declare a state of emergency. Over 100,000 residents are under evacuation warnings as mudslides and submerged vehicles pose significant risks, with more rain expected on Sunday.

Since the October 7, 2023 terror attacks, Israel has issued approximately 217,000 new firearms licenses to civilians, with a notable increase in women among the new permit holders. This trend reflects a growing acceptance of the right to bear arms across various segments of Israeli society, including both religious and secular communities.

Amnesty International has accused Hamas and its allies of committing crimes against humanity in relation to the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 individuals. The organization characterized the mass killing of civilians as a form of extermination, marking a significant escalation in the discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected a U.S. peace plan that would require Ukraine to concede territories to Russia, particularly in the Donetsk region, where a proposed 'free economic zone' would be established. Zelensky emphasized that the plan demands Ukraine to withdraw its troops, which he finds unacceptable.

Bushfires are currently ravaging New South Wales and Tasmania, with over 50 active fires reported, leading to the destruction of homes and at least one confirmed death. The extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 41°C in Koolewong, combined with strong winds, has exacerbated the situation, making firefighting efforts increasingly difficult.

Swiss Eurovision 2024 winner Nemo announced their decision to return their trophy in protest against Israel's participation in the upcoming contest, citing a contradiction with Eurovision's values of inclusion and dignity amid the ongoing Gaza war.

Tens of thousands of residents in western North America are under evacuation orders as heavy rains have caused rivers to overflow, particularly affecting Washington state and British Columbia. Authorities continue to warn that water levels are rising, and the risk of flooding remains high following several days of intense storms.

Storm Byron is expected to hit Gaza, where nearly 1.5 million Palestinians are currently sheltering in flood-prone camps with inadequate protection and supplies. The impending storm raises concerns about the safety and well-being of these vulnerable populations as they brace for severe weather conditions.