‘These are the first crucial questions’

SINGAPORE: The Istana will open to the public on Aug 3 to celebrate Singapore's 60th year of independence, featuring activities like live performances, inclusive sports, and hands-on arts for all ages. Admission is free for Singaporeans and permanent residents, while others pay S$20 for adults and S$10 for children, with proceeds supporting charities through the President's Challenge. Want More Context? 🔎

Five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team stand trial for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a 2018 incident in London, Ontario, with the key issue being her consent to the acts. The case has sparked national debate on hockey culture, especially following Hockey Canada's handling of the allegations and subsequent fallout, including loss of sponsorships and federal funding. Want More Context? 🔎

A ring of steel barriers has been installed around The Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf, London, following two nights of protests against its use as migrant accommodation. The demonstrations, led by far-right groups and marked by violent clashes, have resulted in police spending £100,000 on security, as local staff at the hotel have been made redundant amid rising tensions. Want More Context? 🔎

A passenger plane operated by Angara Airlines, carrying 49 people, crashed in Russia's Amur region with no survivors found. The An-24 aircraft lost contact during its flight from Blagoveshchensk to Tynda and was later discovered burning on a hillside, with reports indicating the fuselage was nearly 50 years old. Want More Context? 🔎

Hezbollah's Media Relations has denied reports from Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath claiming the group is poised to confront the Lebanese state, labeling them as false fabrications aimed at destabilizing Lebanon. The organization urged media outlets to disregard these claims and emphasized the importance of consulting Hezbollah for accurate positions on current events. Want More Context? 🔎

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina allegedly ordered security forces to use lethal weapons against student protesters, as revealed by secret phone recordings analyzed by Al Jazeera. Following violent protests that resulted in nearly 1,400 deaths, Hasina resigned and fled to India, with ongoing legal proceedings against her for crimes against humanity set to begin in August. Want More Context? 🔎