Pope is sitting up out of bed at hospital as he recovers from pneumonia

The late Justice Antonin Scalia acknowledged flag burning as protected free speech, a stance President Trump challenged with an executive order aiming to prosecute such acts under certain circumstances, despite the lack of power to criminalize them directly. The order reflects public sentiment against flag desecration, but it recognizes that flag burning remains a First Amendment right upheld by the Supreme Court since the 1989 Texas v. Johnson decision. Want More Context? 🔎

US envoy to Syria Tom Barrack faced backlash in Lebanon after calling journalists' behavior “animalistic” during a press conference, prompting condemnation from Lebanese officials and media organizations, which demanded a public apology. His visit focused on discussions about disarming Hezbollah following a Lebanese government decision to consolidate weapons under state control. Want More Context? 🔎

The United Kingdom is on track to experience its hottest summer on record, with a mean temperature of 16.13C (61.03F), surpassing the previous record of 15.76C (60.37F) set in 2018. This trend aligns with evidence of increasing summer temperatures due to climate change, as significant cooling appears unlikely with only a week left in the season. Want More Context? 🔎

At least 34 Colombian soldiers were kidnapped by armed civilians in the southeastern jungle after a military operation that killed 11 rebels, including a commander from the dissident FARC faction, according to Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez. The incident follows a pattern of violence from armed groups in the region, which is a key area for drug trafficking despite the 2016 peace deal with FARC. Want More Context? 🔎

California, Washington, and New Mexico risk losing millions in federal funding for failing to enforce English language requirements for truck drivers, as highlighted by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy following a deadly crash involving an unqualified driver. The states must comply within 30 days to avoid losing $33 million, $10.5 million, and $7 million, respectively, with ongoing political tensions exacerbating the situation. Want More Context? 🔎

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? 🔎