Israel steps up deadly bombardment of Gaza ahead of ceasefire talks
Israel has escalated its offensive in Gaza ahead of imminent talks on a ceasefire, with warships and artillery launching one of the deadliest and most intense bombardments on the devastated Palestinian territory in many months.
Doctors and officials in Gaza reported that about 90 people were killed overnight and on Thursday, including many women and children. They said the death toll was higher on Tuesday night and Wednesday.
Russia, the first country to recognize Taliban rule
The Taliban government said Russia had made a "bold decision" by recognizing their rule and had set an example for others.
Moscow said it wants to increase economic cooperation and help Kabul fight drug trafficking and terrorism.
Hamas demands ceasefire guarantees
The Islamist militant group Hamas is reportedly seeking guarantees that a US-backed ceasefire will lead to a permanent end to hostilities, as more Palestinians are killed in Israeli airstrikes.
"In the context of the movement's commitment to ending the Zionist aggression against our people and ensuring the free entry of humanitarian aid, the movement is holding consultations with the leaders of the Palestinian forces and factions about the proposal it received from the brotherly mediators," Al Jazeera quoted a Hamas statement as saying.
Deadly heatwave across Europe causes fires and shuts down nuclear plant
A continuing heatwave has broken records and raised alarms across Europe, as temperatures reach over 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of the continent.
Turkey has been battling hundreds of wildfires across the country in the past week, fueled by strong winds, scorching heat and low humidity. The fires, most of which are now extinguished, led to the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.
According to experts, the most extreme heat is expected in Italy and Southern Europe over the coming days.
