Pope Francis bequeathed his 2014 Bethlehem popemobile to Caritas Jerusalem, intending its conversion into a mobile clinic for Gaza’s displaced children. Border closures, particularly the sealed Rafah crossing, currently prevent the equipped vehicle from reaching Gaza. Caritas Jerusalem faces significant hurdles in obtaining permits for aid delivery, further complicated by the chaotic situation and conflicting reports regarding recent aid distribution incidents. The popemobile’s intended humanitarian mission remains stalled due to these ongoing geopolitical obstacles.
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White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt notably omitted her cross necklace during Tuesday’s press briefing, following comedian Jon Stewart’s mockery of her faith on his show. Stewart’s criticism centered on Leavitt’s perceived hypocrisy, contrasting her professed faith with her actions and statements. This omission follows prior criticism of Leavitt for comments about a deported individual, where her religious symbolism was also noted by critics. The incident highlights the intersection of faith, politics, and public perception within the current political climate.
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The new travel restrictions, targeting countries deemed high-risk due to insufficient vetting processes, high visa overstay rates, and inadequate information sharing, aim to prevent terrorist entry into the United States. These measures, justified by concerns about national security and exemplified by a recent attack in Colorado, are intended to enhance screening and vetting procedures. The administration asserts the restrictions are country-specific and mirror previous, successful efforts to protect the nation from foreign threats. The White House emphasized the need to prevent the type of attacks experienced in Europe from occurring within the US.
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Cologne, Germany underwent its largest post-war evacuation on Wednesday to allow for the defusal of three unexploded WWII American bombs—two 20-ton and one 10-ton—discovered during road construction. Over 20,000 residents were evacuated from a large area encompassing the city center, including major infrastructure like the Hohenzollern Bridge. Experts successfully defused the ordnance within an hour. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge posed by unexploded ordnance from WWII, even decades later.
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Following a successful Ukrainian drone attack on Russian air bases, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that Ukraine is well-prepared for a potential Russian counteroffensive, though the scope and timing remain uncertain. The attack, targeting long-range bombers used in strikes against Ukraine, reportedly destroyed numerous aircraft, a claim still under verification. This incident has prompted Western military officials to reassess the vulnerability of concentrated high-value assets, such as warplanes on air bases. The Ukrainian operation highlights the potential for even seemingly secure locations to be successfully targeted.
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Jessie J recently revealed a health diagnosis shortly before releasing her new single, “No Secrets,” choosing to publicly share her experience to connect with others facing similar challenges. Despite the difficult timing coinciding with the promotional rollout of new music and her upcoming Wembley Stadium performance, she plans to undergo surgery after the show. She expresses gratitude for early detection and maintains a positive outlook, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing both her health and career. Jessie J’s openness aims to raise awareness and provide support, demonstrating her resilience amidst ongoing health struggles and her commitment to her music career.
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Following a recent Ukrainian drone strike on Russian airbases, President Putin reportedly plans further retaliatory attacks, despite numerous diplomatic attempts to achieve peace. Zelensky highlighted Russia’s relentless bombardment of Ukraine with tens of thousands of munitions since 2025, emphasizing Russia’s impunity and the need for increased international pressure. He argued that a weak response to Putin’s threats only emboldens further aggression, while strong action demonstrates resolve and accountability. Zelensky underscored the global responsibility to halt Russian attacks and hold Putin accountable for his actions.
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Daniel Park, 32, was arrested and extradited from Poland for supplying the chemicals used in the May 17 bombing of a California fertility clinic. Park, who shared anti-natalist views with the deceased bomber, Guy Edward Bartkus, shipped significant quantities of ammonium nitrate to Bartkus and collaborated on bomb-making experiments. The attack, deemed terrorism, resulted in extensive damage to the clinic. Park faces charges of providing material support to terrorists and is currently awaiting a hearing in California.
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The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects the House GOP’s reconciliation package will increase the national debt by $2.4 trillion over ten years, despite significant cuts to programs like Medicaid and SNAP. This is due to $3.75 trillion in tax cuts disproportionately benefiting the wealthy, only partially offset by spending reductions. The CBO also estimates 10.9 million people will lose health insurance under the plan. Critics widely condemn the bill as fiscally irresponsible and exacerbating wealth inequality, while Republicans attempt to discredit the CBO’s findings.
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Following the death of their 7-year-old son, Legend, who was struck by a vehicle while walking home from a store with his older brother, Jessica Ivey and Samuele Jenkins were charged with involuntary manslaughter. The parents, who stated this was the first time the children walked home unaccompanied, allowed their sons to cross a four-lane road between crosswalks. Gastonia police determined the driver was not at fault, focusing instead on the parents’ alleged negligence in ensuring the children’s safety. The parents are currently being held on $1.5 million bond.
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John Q. Hosedrinker