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

The Associated Press and Reuters demanded accountability from Israel following a deadly airstrike on a hospital in Khan Younis that killed 20, including five journalists. AP and Reuters editors expressed outrage over the attack on a protected facility and questioned Israel's commitment to safeguarding civilians and journalists, calling for a transparent investigation and access for independent media. Want More Context? 🔎

Nigel Farage has proposed dramatic plans for the mass detention and deportation of illegal immigrants if Reform UK wins the next general election, including building facilities to hold 24,000 people and scrapping various human rights conventions. The controversial measures aim to expedite the removal of asylum seekers without allowing them to claim asylum, raising significant legal and ethical concerns. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli snipers positioned themselves on rooftops as troops stormed Ramallah and el-Bireh.The Israeli army's raid on Ramallah and el-Bireh resulted in at least 24 Palestinians wounded, including a child, amidst reports of detentions and the use of rubber-coated bullets and tear gas. Analysts suggest this operation reflects Israel's broader campaign against the Palestinian population in the West Bank, exacerbated by increasing violence since October 2023, with 671 Palestinians killed, including many children. Want More Context?...

A Maryland resident diagnosed with New World screwworm after traveling to El Salvador marks the first U.S. case linked to a current outbreak; the individual has since recovered with no transmission reported. New World screwworm is a rare parasitic fly that infests open wounds, posing low risk to the public, though officials are concerned about its potential spread in the U.S. again. Want More Context? 🔎

Capital Pride's parade in Ottawa was halted by pro-Palestinian demonstrators from Queers 4 Palestine – Ottawa shortly after its start, leading to Mayor Mark Sutcliffe refusing to meet their demands or apologize for his past non-participation. The protest aimed to address Capital Pride's previous statement on Palestine and called for a BDS town hall, but the parade was ultimately dissolved after an hour due to a lack of meaningful dialogue. Want More Context? 🔎

At least five people were killed and fourteen injured due to a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall on the route to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district. The incident has led to the suspension of the pilgrimage and significant disruptions, including the cancellation of nearly 18 trains and the closure of major highways due to flooding and landslides. Want More Context? 🔎