Trump nominates conservative media critic for ambassador to South Africa during strained relations

The Tennessee Supreme Court set execution dates for four death row inmates, including Christa Pike, the only woman sentenced to death in the state. Pike, convicted for the 1995 murder of Colleen Slemmer, has faced legal efforts to commute her sentence due to her mental health issues, while concerns about the state’s execution protocols and past drug testing failures have also emerged. Want More Context? 🔎

An aeroplane-obsessed Kiwi teen, Emily Ronberg, 17, filmed the dramatic moment when an Air New Zealand flight, NZ993, had to abort its take-off in Apia while returning from Samoa with her family. The incident occurred as they prepared for their flight to Auckland, capturing the family's unexpected adventure. Want More Context? 🔎

Two Kenyan human rights activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, reportedly went missing in Uganda after being abducted by armed men at a petrol station during opposition leader Bobi Wine's campaign event, with Wine condemning the act as a government-targeted abduction. Their disappearance echoes past cases of political abductions in East Africa, raising concerns about collaboration among regional governments to suppress dissent. Want More Context? 🔎

Alberta ranks highest in a social mobility index by the Montreal Economic Institute, reflecting greater opportunities for residents to out-earn their parents, despite a score of only 57 out of 100 due to regulatory barriers. Quebec, finishing last, faces significant obstacles from stringent trade certification rules and low social capital, highlighting the need for improved policies across Canada. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli naval forces attacked the Global Sumud Flotilla, detaining 223 activists from various nationalities as they attempted to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, with reports of violence and communication disruptions during the interception. The flotilla, comprised of 15 vessels, was targeted despite international calls for protection, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amidst an 18-year blockade. Want More Context? 🔎

Gold prices surged to a record $3,895 an ounce amid concerns over the US government shutdown and US-Russia tensions, marking a 44% annual increase and positioning gold as Australia's third-most valuable export. Central banks are diversifying into gold, with a notable increase in retail demand in Australia, where queues form daily at ABC Bullion as buyers seek physical gold, especially ahead of the Diwali festival. Want More Context? 🔎