CIA believes Covid-19 likely caused by lab leak, NBC News reports

A pro-Palestine coalition is urging Saint John police to drop charges related to a demonstration on August 2, where two arrests were made following an alleged assault on a volunteer at the Israel booth during the International Culturefest. While the pro-Palestine groups claim Israeli representation heightened tensions, booth organizers insist they followed guidelines to ensure safety and denied provocations. Want More Context? 🔎

New changerooms at Thomas Oval will be named Djandoo Mia, meaning “home of the whistling kite,” following approval by the City of Kwinana council. The facility, serving the Kwinana Titans rugby and AIM Archery clubs, will feature four changerooms and is set for completion in May, with the name reflecting local cultural significance. Want More Context? 🔎

The deployment of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., aimed at combating crime, has instilled fear among immigrants, who feel racially targeted and traumatized in their communities, with businesses suffering as employees hesitate to work. Despite claims of reducing violent crime, residents report increased arrests and racial profiling, leading to a chilling atmosphere. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, warned that the revival of the "snapback" mechanism for re-imposing UN sanctions would have consequences, asserting that European powers do not have the right to trigger it. During a meeting in Geneva, both sides agreed to continue nuclear talks in the coming days. Want More Context? 🔎

The Taliban has expressed readiness to accept Afghan refugees as part of Nigel Farage's proposed mass deportations if his Reform UK party gains power, asserting they can manage the returnees without financial compensation. Farage's controversial plan includes detaining illegal immigrants in military facilities and deporting them to countries like Afghanistan, despite potential risks to their safety upon return. Want More Context? 🔎

Qatar’s foreign ministry said delegations were meeting in Doha to review the implementation of a truce signed in July.Negotiations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 armed group have resumed in Qatar to address a faltering truce amid escalating violence in eastern DRC. Discussions aim to establish a monitoring mechanism for the ceasefire and facilitate prisoner exchanges, while concerns over human rights violations and regional conflict continue to grow. Want More Context?...