Major Developments Around the World: Supreme Court Blocks Texas from Enforcing Controversial Immigration Law, Israeli Military Targets Gaza Hospital, and More
Russian President Vladimir Putin has secured a third full decade of rule with an impressive election victory, receiving 87% of the country’s votes in the absence of any credible opposition (News Finder Report). Here’s a roundup of significant happenings around the world that can help you get up to speed for your day.
1. The Supreme Court blocks Texas from enforcing SB 4: On Monday, the Supreme Court indefinitely halted Texas from implementing a contentious law that would allow state officials to detain individuals suspected of entering the US illegally. This decision follows concerns regarding potential racial profiling, as well as detentions and attempted deportations by state authorities in Texas where Latinos constitute around 40% of the population (News Finder Report).
2. Israeli military targets Al-Shifa Hospital: On Monday, the Israeli military launched an operation against Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, claiming it was being utilized by Hamas for “conducting and promoting terrorist activity.” The complex houses about 30,000 people seeking shelter. Casualties were reported at the facility, but Hamas accused Israel of striking indiscriminately and without regard to patients or medical staff (News Finder Report).
3. Donald Trump’s bond payment in civil fraud case: Former President Donald Trump faces difficulty raising the $464 million needed for his civil fraud case bond. Despite approaching 30 underwriters, few insurance companies are willing to consider a bond of such magnitude. In late March, Trump was ordered by New York Judge Arthur Engoron to pay $355 million in disgorgement for fraud, conspiracy, and false financial statements and records (News Finder Report).
4. Rising gas prices: Prices at the pump continue to rise as industry experts anticipate further increases in the coming weeks and months. This is particularly concerning for consumers and officials aiming to declare victory over inflation. As of now, the national average price for regular gas stands at $3.48 per gallon—higher than at any point since late last year (News Finder Report).
5. Increase in US abortions: The Guttmacher Institute reported that there were over 1 million abortions in the United States in 2023, marking the highest rate in more than a decade and a 10% increase from 2020. This data suggests that medication abortion is increasingly common, with nearly every state experiencing an increase in abortions since 2020 (Guttmacher Institute Report).
6. Apple’s advancements in ai: Researchers at Apple have developed a sophisticated ai system, MM1, capable of interpreting and generating different types of data, such as text and images simultaneously.
7. Richard Simmons’ wellbeing: Amidst concerns raised by his social media posts, a spokesperson for Richard Simmons confirmed that the fitness celebrity is “very healthy and happy.”
8. Ancient red lipstick: Archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old vial containing what appears to be ancient red lipstick.
9. World’s worst air pollution: The report reveals that 100 cities with the world’s worst air pollution in 2023 were primarily located in Asia, with the top rankings available for viewing.
10. Changing commission splits: Starting July 2023, buyers may have to pay their broker directly in home purchase transactions instead of the traditional standard 6% split between buyers’ and sellers’ agents in the US. This change, part of a $418 million settlement, should reduce overall home buying costs on average.
11. Oprah Winfrey’s weight loss journey: In a primetime special, Oprah Winfrey shared her weight loss journey and her decision to use weight loss medication as one tool in managing her weight while addressing the stigma surrounding such medications for those struggling with obesity.
12. Notre Dame Cathedral’s restoration: News Finder takes a tour of the historic Parisian landmark, showcasing stunning footage of the ongoing renovation process following the devastating fire in 2019. The cathedral is expected to reopen to the public in December.
Stay informed and have a productive day!
