Death toll rises in Gaza
88 people have been killed and hundreds more wounded as Israel continues aerial attacks on Gaza. With Egypt opening its borders to allow those wounded in rocket attacks effective treatment as Gaza’s hospitals fail to cope with the overwhelming numbers of casualties. The UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon condemned the rocket attacks and urged Israel to show restraint during his address to the Security Council.
Nuclear facilities fall in Iraq.
The Iraqi UN ambassador has asked for help after ISIS seized substantial amounts of uranium from the university of Mosul, prompting fears that the group could weaponise the radioactive materials. Smuggling weapons, fighters and materials out of the country have become easier since ISIS seized control of a sizeable section of the Syrian border with Iraq.
Texas gunman arrested
A 33-year old man, Ronald Lee Haskell, has been arrested after a four-hour standoff with police. Cassidy Stay, a 15-year-old called 911 with a bullet lodged in her head. She warned the police that Mr Haskell was on his way to kill her grandparents after already executing her parents and siblings.
Emma Watson appointed UN ambassador
Harry Potter actress Emma Watson has been announced as the ambassador for goodwill. This is the part of the Untied Nations organization that targets gender equality and the empowerment of women. For a number of years Ms Watson has promoted education.
Train carrying migrants in Mexico derails
A cargo train carrying 1300 migrants on their way to United States has derailed in southern Mexico. The train was delayed for a few hours though there was no harm to the passengers.
US drone strikes kill six in Pakistan
Two missile strikes in Northern Pakistan have left at least six people dead. The strikes in North Waziristan, an area synonymous with ongoing conflict is the third since the operation against the Tehreek-e-Taliban began. The attacks follow 14 deaths caused by US drones last month in Pakistan and highlights escalating efforts against the Taliban in the region.
Chinese hackers break in US computer networks
The latest documents released by Edward Snowden reveal that hackers from China broke into US networks and stole personal information from federal government employees earlier this year. The majority of the information stolen contained data protected by top security clearances. The details of the hacking comes as US secretary of state John Kerry visits China for an annual summit and increases tensions between the two countries.
Brando’s planned resort to be built
Plans made by late actor Marlon Brando to open a resort called the Brando have become a reality. On the island of Tetiaroa, 50km from Tahiti, the resort includes 35 bedrooms, each with their own pool and private beach access. Brando intended the resort to be sustainable, which would help locals and the area. Prices range from $2600 to $7800 a night – Compiled from internet and agency sources by Raeesah Lillah and Mohammad Rassawala
Top photo from Robert Cromas Flickr photostream.
About the author
