Flash Floods Pound South As Millions Wake Up To Power Outages

Hong Kong's Democratic Party, founded in 1994, announced plans to disband amid China's national security crackdown, requiring a 75% majority vote from members. The crackdown, including arrests and electoral system changes, has marginalized opposition parties like the Democratic Party and drawn international criticism. Key members, including Martin Lee, have faced legal repercussions, with the Civic Party also dissolving in 2023 due to similar pressures. Full Article

Scientists exploring the Red Sea found brine pools 4,000 feet below the surface, where the water is extremely salty and lacks oxygen, killing marine life that enters. Led by Sam Purkis, the research team believes this harsh environment mimics early Earth conditions and could offer insights into the origins of life and potential extraterrestrial organisms. The unique ecosystem in the Gulf of Aqaba, resembling conditions on distant "water worlds," provides an opportunity to study past...

The Trump administration transferred Venezuelan migrants from a U.S. military base in Guantánamo Bay to Honduras for repatriation, clearing out the detention operation amid legal challenges. The migrants were held temporarily due to difficulties in deporting them to Venezuela, but a diplomatic breakthrough allowed for their return. President Maduro of Venezuela hailed the return of the migrants as a victory and a result of direct negotiations with the U.S., while questions remain about the criteria...

Leaders of Gulf Arab states are meeting with Egyptian and Jordanian counterparts in Riyadh to counter President Trump's proposal to redevelop Gaza under U.S. control. Arab countries are working on an alternative plan to keep Palestinian residents in place and preserve the possibility of a Palestinian state. The proposal includes funding reconstruction, forming a committee for postwar governance, and ensuring the blessing of the Palestinian Authority, while rejecting forced displacement and seeking stability and economic...

Democratic strategist James Carville is advising Democrats to "play possum" and "sit back" as he believes a Trump "collapse" is happening, citing declining poll numbers. Despite recent protests against Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency, Carville suggests Democrats do nothing in response. While Trump's approval ratings have slightly decreased, Carville maintains that Democrats should focus on issues like affordable health care rather than controversial distractions like transgender athletes in women's sports. Full Article

In a dominant victory over the 76ers after the All-Star break, Jayson Tatum controlled the game despite not scoring much, finishing with a triple-double. Luke Kornet proved to be a valuable pick-and-roll target for Tatum, showcasing his skills both offensively and defensively. The Celtics exposed Joel Embiid's struggles on both ends of the court, capitalizing on his defensive deficiencies to secure a significant win over their rivals. Full Article