WHO tweaks Sars-CoV-2 variant tags, XBB.1.16 a VOI

The World Health Organization (WHO) updated its tracking system and working definitions to better correspond to the current global variant landscape. Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron parent lineages (B.1.1.529) are considered "previously circulating variants of concern (VOCs)", while XBB.1.5 is a variant of interest (VOI). Omicron viruses account for over 98% of the publicly available sequences since February 2022 and may be the source of new Sars-CoV-2 variants. WHO will assign Greek labels for VOCs and will continue to issue regular risk assessments for both VOIs and VOCs.

Trump admin's latest warning: 'Reconsider travel to Pakistan because...'

US State Department warns citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to ongoing military tensions between India and Pakistan, following India's precision strikes against terrorist groups and potential armed conflict near the border.

‘US should stand with India’: Congressman Shri Thanedar backs ‘Operation Sindoor’

US Congressman Shri Thanedar supports India's retaliatory strikes against terror targets in Pakistan after the Pahalgam massacre, calling for US solidarity and emphasizing the need to combat terrorism and protect innocent lives.

Aussiewood to Mel Gibson: save us from Trump's movie tariffs

Australia's film industry is urging Mel Gibson to persuade President Trump to revoke proposed 100% tariffs on foreign films, which could threaten its A$1 billion business. Industry leaders warn that these tariffs could lead to significant job losses and increased ticket prices, jeopardizing the long-standing collaboration between Hollywood and Australian filmmakers.

NYC to open 7 new public schools this fall — Full list and locations

NYC opens 7 new public schools this fall, offering specialized programs in STEM, healthcare, literacy, and more across four boroughs. The initiative aims to modernize education, address diverse student needs, and provide equitable learning opportunities for NYC students.

Nevada hearing may give first public view into legal spat over control of Murdoch media empire

A Nevada Supreme Court hearing may reveal details about Rupert Murdoch's secretive legal battle over control of his media empire after his death. The dispute centers on his family trust, with Murdoch attempting to ensure his son Lachlan maintains control, while siblings Prudence, Elisabeth, and James oppose changes that could affect Fox News's conservative stance.

Trump says three hostages held by Hamas have died, 21 remain

President Trump announced that three hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have died, leaving 21 believed to be alive. His remarks come as Israel plans to reoccupy Gaza to recover hostages and combat Hamas. The U.S. State Department also reported assisting 17 Americans in leaving Gaza.

What is UN Charter's Article 51 Pakistan is citing after India's Operation Sindoor strikes

Pakistan's Deputy PM Ishaq Dar claims India violated UN Charter's Article 51 after Operation Sindoor strikes on nine terror sites in response to a terrorist attack. Pakistan reserves the right to respond, condemning the action as a breach of international norms.

Who is America’s most beloved Royal? New poll says it's not Harry, William, or Meghan, it’s still her, 25 years later

Princess Diana remains America's most beloved royal, 25 years after her death. Prince William follows with high popularity, while Harry and Meghan rank lower. Most Americans oppose monarchy, but retain affection for iconic royal figures.

Major changes to veterans benefits: Key updates and what they mean

VA Department reforms veteran benefits, making support for deceased veterans' families faster and easier. New specialized team in Philadelphia will guide complex claims, with improved technology and direct oversight to simplify bureaucratic processes and provide quicker, more compassionate assistance.

US reviews occupation of University of Washington building by pro-Palestinian protesters

The U.S. government will review a pro-Palestinian protest at the University of Washington, where demonstrators occupied a building demanding the university sever ties with Boeing. The Trump administration condemned the incident as antisemitic and urged policy changes, while the university reported arrests for trespassing and disorderly conduct. Critics argue the administration conflates criticism of Israel with antisemitism.

Social Security issues ‘emergency message’ on clawbacks: Here's what is changing

Social Security Administration reduces overpayment clawback rate from 100% to 50%, addressing financial hardship concerns. The change follows an inspector general's report revealing calculation errors in 73,000 cases, primarily due to agency system limitations.

How will life end on Earth? Study rules out meteorites and climate change

NASA-led study reveals Earth's life will end due to oxygen depletion, not meteorites or climate change. In a billion years, rising sun temperatures will disrupt oxygen levels, causing flora, fauna, and aerobic organisms to perish, leaving only anaerobic microbes.

Pakistan travel advisory: Airlines issue alerts after India's strikes - here's a list

Airlines issued travel advisories after India's strikes on terror sites, with SpiceJet closing several airports. Qatar Airways suspended flights to Pakistan. The US updated its travel advisory to 'Level 3', warning citizens about potential conflict and terrorism risks.

Linda McMahon's scathing letter to Harvard draws attention for 'glaring grammatical errors'

Linda McMahon sent a scathing letter to Harvard's president, criticizing its handling of antisemitism and suggesting the university should lose federal funding. The letter sparked online debate, with claims of grammatical errors and potential university response, though no official Harvard rebuttal emerged.

U.S. may soon deport migrants to Libya on military flight, sources say

The U.S. may deport migrants to Libya for the first time this week, despite prior criticisms of Libya's human rights record. Plans could change, and the number or nationalities of migrants involved remain unclear. The Trump administration has been exploring various countries for deportations, aiming to send individuals further from the U.S. amid ongoing legal challenges.