U.S. and Hamas Hold Direct Talks on Hostages in Gaza, Officials Say

US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel amid ongoing conflict, urging both sides to adhere to the truce set to begin with Iran halting operations first. Despite the announcement, hostilities continued, with Iran striking Israel and missile attacks on a US military base in Qatar, raising international concerns about escalating violence. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, urging both...

Israeli rescuers reported three fatalities from an Iranian missile strike, while Iran denied any ceasefire agreement despite US President Trump's announcement of a 24-hour truce process. As hostilities continued, Iran targeted a US base in Qatar, prompting global leaders to call for de-escalation amid fears of wider conflict, with rising casualties on both sides. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Israeli rescuers reported three deaths from an Iranian missile strike, as tensions escalated despite...

After a devastating war, Syria is now marked by the flag of the rebels who overthrew dictator Bashar al-Assad. Ben Hubbard, reporting for The New York Times, shares insights from his journey through Syria, where he interacted with locals trying to rebuild their lives amidst the destruction. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: A new flag is waving in Syria because people worked hard to change their leader, and now they are trying to...

As night descends in Tel Aviv, many residents seek refuge in the metro and car parks to escape Iranian missile attacks, which have surged since the conflict began on June 13. Despite low casualty numbers, the situation is dire for those without safe shelters, leading to daily struggles as families adapt to life underground amid ongoing threats. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: People in Tel Aviv are going to sleep in the subway...

Queen Hatshepsut, a successful female pharaoh of ancient Egypt who ruled 3,500 years ago, saw her legacy erased after her death by her stepson Thutmose III, who aimed to eliminate evidence of her reign. Recent research by Jun Wong suggests that the motivations behind Thutmose III's actions were more complex than previously thought, indicating they may have stemmed from ritual necessity rather than gender-based animosity. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Queen Hatshepsut was...

Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent pro-Palestinian activist, shared his harrowing experience of spending 104 days in ICE detention, targeted by the Trump administration for deportation. Released on bail, he spoke out against his treatment and criticized Columbia University for its lack of support during his ordeal, emphasizing the emotional toll of detention on him and other detainees. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Mahmoud Khalil was in jail for a long time because the government...