The debut of new pandas in D.C. marks the latest chapter in China's 'panda diplomacy'

A hot air balloon in Bedford narrowly avoided disaster while attempting to land, coming dangerously close to rooftops and parked cars. A dogwalker, Sam Coldham, used a guide rope to safely bring the balloon down after it lost momentum due to still wind conditions, with no injuries reported, according to the British Balloon and Airship Club. Want More Context? 🔎

Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's recent visit to Bangladesh marks a significant step in improving relations between the two countries, with plans to sign multiple agreements, including those on trade. This visit, the first by a senior Pakistani official since 2012, follows a thawing of ties amid Bangladesh's cooling relations with India and includes discussions on enhancing economic cooperation and potential direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi. Want More Context? 🔎

A shooting in New York City on Saturday resulted in one death and four injuries, including a 17-year-old girl in critical condition. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. near Haffen Park during a basketball tournament, and police have taken four individuals into custody, suspecting gang involvement. Want More Context? 🔎

A federal judge ruled that Minnesota's law excluding religious colleges from a state program for high school students violates religious freedom, favoring Crown College and the University of Northwestern, which require students to sign a faith statement. The ruling overturns a 2023 law aimed at protecting LGBTQ+ rights and emphasizes that states cannot disqualify religious schools from participating in publicly funded programs. Want More Context? 🔎

Thousands of Australians protested in support of Palestine, marking two weeks since the country's recognition of a Palestinian state, with around 350,000 participants across more than 40 rallies, according to the Palestine Action Group. The protests called for an end to violence in Gaza and faced criticism from the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese remained resolute amid attacks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Want More Context? 🔎

Residents of the Western U.S. are enduring a dangerous heat wave, with around 1.2 million people under extreme heat risk, particularly in Tucson, Arizona, where temperatures are expected to reach between 102 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit. In Portland, Oregon, record highs prompted emergency responses, with increased hospital visits linked to the Hood to Coast relay race, highlighting the severe impact of the heat on participants. Want More Context? 🔎