Syria is joining a donor conference for the first time in a crucial step for its new leaders

President Trump has nominated State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce as the next deputy representative to the United Nations, contingent on Senate confirmation, which would elevate her to ambassador rank. Bruce's appointment follows the stalled confirmation of Mike Waltz as U.S. ambassador to the U.N., a position that has remained vacant since the start of Trump's second term. Want More Context? 🔎

A criminal gang in the UK, which stole nearly £700,000 from cash machines using specialist tools and stolen vehicles, was arrested shortly after boasting about evading police capture. The five members, including Noel Reilly and Simon Pagett, were found guilty of conspiracy to burgle and will be sentenced later, following thorough police investigations that gathered substantial evidence against them. Want More Context? 🔎

Okanagan Falls is set to become British Columbia's newest municipality, but residents may need to adapt to a potential name change. The province is considering this change to better reflect the area's Indigenous culture, prompting discussions among the community about its identity. Want More Context? 🔎

The new Premier League season starts on August 15, featuring champions Liverpool against Bournemouth, with Liverpool favored to retain their title. Arsenal seeks to improve from three consecutive second-place finishes, while Chelsea looks to build on their recent FIFA Club World Cup success amid ongoing team challenges. Want More Context? 🔎

Palestinian-American withdraws from US negotiating teamBishara Bahbah, a Palestinian-American who played a role in negotiating the release of Edan Alexander, has withdrawn from the U.S. negotiating team amid stalled ceasefire negotiations. He expressed on Facebook, "I am not a mediator in the true sense of the word, but I share your suffering." Want More Context? 🔎

Not all workout shoes are created equal; the right pair can enhance stability for weightlifting or make long runs feel easier. The NBC Select team, after consulting experts and testing various models in New York City, recommends top men's running shoes from brands like Brooks, Asics, and Saucony, focusing on fit, cushioning, and price range. Want More Context? 🔎