Taliban say 2 Americans held in Afghanistan were freed in a prisoner exchange

Pope Francis has asked for prayers as he continues treatment in hospital for double pneumonia, unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person. The 88-year-old's condition remains critical, with doctors noting a low platelet count and the need for blood transfusions. The Pope also called for prayers for peace in conflict-ridden areas, highlighting the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. Full Article

Four people, including a 37-year-old Algerian man identified as Brahim A., were in custody after a deadly stabbing in Mulhouse, France, linked to Islamic extremism. The attack left a Portuguese man dead and seven police officers wounded. The suspect, who arrived in France in 2014 and had a history of glorifying terrorism, was armed with a knife and a screwdriver, and repeatedly shouted "Allahu akbar" during the assault. Full Article

Shayla Cramer from Ethan, South Dakota, had to get dentures at 23 due to poor oral hygiene from growing up without access to water, leading to her teeth falling out; a stranger helped fund the dentures. Now 26, she shares her experience on TikTok, gaining support and confidence after struggling with her teeth impacting her life and self-esteem. The dentures have allowed her to smile, eat without pain, and enjoy life with her family, highlighting...

Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Beirut for the delayed funeral of Hezbollah's former leader Hassan Nasrallah, killed in an Israeli air attack. The funeral also honored Hashem Safieddine, Nasrallah's chosen successor killed in a separate raid. The event was heavily secured, with attendees from around the world paying their respects as Nasrallah and Safieddine were laid to rest in Beirut and southern Lebanon. Full Article

Pope Francis shared a message from his hospital bed thanking supporters for their prayers and urging them to spread love and create a fraternal world. The 88-year-old pontiff remains in critical condition with a complex lung infection after being hospitalized for bronchitis, pneumonia, and a respiratory crisis. Despite his health challenges, he continues to receive treatment and support while still conscious and alert. Full Article

Three years after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian journalist Nataliya Gumenyuk discusses how Ukrainians feel excluded from ceasefire discussions with NPR's Ayesha Rascoe. Despite ongoing talks, Ukrainians are concerned about being left out of negotiations that directly impact their country's future. The absence of Ukrainian representation in these discussions raises questions about the validity and effectiveness of potential ceasefire agreements. Full Article