‘Our last heritage asset’: fears for Walsall Leather Museum as council plans to sell

In a significant legal move, two dozen states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, aiming to prevent cuts to food stamp benefits that could affect 42 million Americans starting November 1. The state officials are urging a federal judge to compel Washington to utilize emergency reserve funds to maintain these essential benefits. This situation highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding welfare programs and the impact of federal decisions on vulnerable populations, making it a critical issue for many families across the nation.

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East escalated as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the Israel Defense Forces to strike Gaza City, accusing Hamas of breaching the ceasefire. Reports indicate that at least two people have died and four others have been injured due to the attacks, which targeted a neighborhood in southern Gaza City. This situation is critical as it highlights the fragile state of peace in the region and the humanitarian impact on civilians caught in the conflict.

Northern Ireland's education minister is facing criticism from teaching unions for his recent trip to Israel, which he describes as a 'fact-finding mission.' This visit has raised concerns among educators who believe it distracts from pressing issues within the local education system. The unions argue that the minister should focus on improving education at home rather than engaging in international trips, highlighting the importance of prioritizing local needs.

Tiphaine Auzière revealed in court that her mother, Brigitte Macron, has faced significant emotional distress due to alleged cyber-bullying. This trial involves ten individuals accused of targeting the French first lady online. The case highlights the serious impact of cyber-bullying on public figures and raises awareness about the need for stronger protections against online harassment.

Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Jamaica as a catastrophic category 5 storm, marking the strongest hurricane to hit the island since 1851. This slow-moving storm is expected to linger over Jamaica before moving on to Cuba, raising concerns about severe damage and flooding. The impact of such a powerful storm is significant, as it poses risks to lives, infrastructure, and the economy, making it crucial for residents and authorities to prepare for the aftermath.

A tragic incident unfolded in Uxbridge, west London, where a 49-year-old man was fatally stabbed while walking his dog past a house involved in a violent altercation. This shocking event also left a man and a child injured, prompting murder detectives to launch an investigation. The community is left reeling from this senseless act of violence, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety in urban areas.