In Sudan's Darfur region, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have surrounded the city of el-Fasher, making it difficult for people to escape. Many civilians face danger from both sides of the conflict, and the city is under a tight siege, leading to severe shortages of food and medical supplies. Those who try to flee face deadly risks and high costs imposed by the RSF.
Key Facts
The RSF has captured most provinces in Darfur and is now targeting North Darfur.
An estimated 260,000 people are trapped in el-Fasher due to the RSF's siege.
The RSF is accused of committing serious abuses, such as genocide and systematic sexual violence.
Civilians trying to leave el-Fasher are often forced to pay RSF fighters and hand over valuables.
Many men are detained or killed by the RSF on suspicion of being fighters.
Satellite images show the RSF building barriers around el-Fasher to block escape routes.
The barriers around the city are creating a very dangerous situation known as a "kill box," making escape nearly impossible.
Senate Democrats criticized Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for questioning the safety and use of vaccines. During his confirmation, Kennedy promised not to discourage vaccine use, but lawmakers say he has caused confusion and hindered vaccine access. The criticism was part of a heated Senate Finance Committee meeting, where Kennedy faced tough questions about his actions and statements on vaccines.
Key Facts
Senate Democrats criticized Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for questioning vaccine safety and effectiveness.
Kennedy had promised during his confirmation that he would not discourage vaccine use.
Lawmakers say Kennedy has caused confusion among doctors and families about vaccines.
Sen. Michael Bennet criticized Kennedy's changes to the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Sen. Maria Cantwell called Kennedy a "charlatan" for his comments on vaccines and chronic diseases.
Kennedy faced questions from Sen. Mark Warner about COVID-19 deaths and vaccine effectiveness.
Sen. Maggie Hassan accused Kennedy of lacking transparency regarding new COVID vaccine policies.
Kennedy also received criticism from Sen. Bill Cassidy for his inconsistent views on vaccine funding and policies.
The World Cup qualifier match between Ukraine and France will take place in Wroclaw, Poland, due to security reasons. France joins the qualifiers later due to their involvement in the Nations League. Both teams are part of Group D, which also includes Iceland and Azerbaijan.
Key Facts
The match is part of the UEFA qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
It will happen at Tarczynski Arena Wroclaw in Wroclaw, Poland.
The game is scheduled for Friday, September 5, at 8:45 PM local time.
France and 23 other teams are starting their qualifying matches now due to prior engagements in the Nations League.
Ukraine's home matches are played in neutral Poland because of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Russia's teams are banned from international competitions due to the war.
Group D includes Ukraine, France, Iceland, and Azerbaijan.
France defender Jules Kounde commented on the busy football schedule affecting players and the wider community.
Texas is set to pass a law that allows people to sue companies and individuals from outside the state that provide abortion pills to Texas residents. The law enables successful lawsuits to result in at least $100,000 in damages. The legislation is anticipated to face legal challenges.
Key Facts
Texas will soon sign a law allowing residents to sue out-of-state abortion pill providers.
The law allows for lawsuits against those who manufacture or distribute abortion pills to Texans.
Successful plaintiffs can receive at least $100,000 in damages.
Nearly two-thirds of abortions in the US involve abortion pills like mifepristone and misoprostol.
Women taking the medication cannot be sued, but providers can.
If someone unrelated files the lawsuit, they receive $10,000, and $90,000 goes to charity.
The law is expected to face legal challenges, similar to past abortion restrictions.
Some states have "shield laws" to protect their abortion providers from out-of-state lawsuits, but Texas' law says these can't be used as a defense.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a new outbreak of Ebola in the southern Kasai province. A 34-year-old pregnant woman is the latest confirmed case, bringing the total suspected cases to 28 with 15 deaths. The World Health Organization is assisting local health teams to control the spread.
Key Facts
The DRC confirmed a new Ebola case in the Kasai province.
The patient is a 34-year-old pregnant woman.
The total suspected cases in the current outbreak are 28, with 15 fatalities.
Health Minister Roger Kamba stated that case numbers are still being investigated.
The World Health Organization is working with the DRC on disease control measures.
Ebola symptoms reported include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorrhaging.
WHO is sending experts and medical supplies to assist with the outbreak response.
This is the 16th Ebola outbreak in the DRC, with the last one in April 2022.
An earthquake struck southeastern Afghanistan, increasing the death toll to over 2,200 people. Thousands have been injured and extensive damage to homes has been reported, particularly in the Kunar province. Rescue and aid efforts continue as some areas are difficult to access due to the mountainous terrain.
Key Facts
The earthquake increased the death toll to 2,205, up from an earlier estimate of 1,400.
Around 3,640 people were injured because of the earthquakes.
The earthquakes struck on a Sunday with a magnitude of 6 and were followed by a magnitude 5.5 quake on Tuesday.
Kunar province is one of the worst-hit areas, where 6,700 homes have been destroyed.
The terrain is making it hard for rescuers to deliver help to some affected areas.
Helicopters and army troops are deployed to assist survivors in remote locations.
Limited resources and rough conditions are challenging ongoing efforts by aid workers.
Afghanistan is prone to earthquakes due to its location on the edge of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration's attempt to reduce about $4 billion in U.S. foreign aid funds that were approved by Congress. The ruling states that only Congress has the authority to decide on how this money is spent.
Key Facts
A federal judge in Washington stopped the Trump administration from cutting $4 billion in foreign aid.
The aid was previously approved by Congress for international assistance.
The judge said the White House didn't provide a good reason to override Congress's decision.
This ruling is part of ongoing legal challenges over the administration's foreign aid decisions.
The administration tried to cut the funds using a method called "pocket rescission," last used in 1977.
The judge ordered the funds to be available by September 30 unless Congress agrees to cut them.
The government might appeal the ruling, although similar appeals have been rejected recently.
Syria's economy is struggling after years of civil war. The government hopes to use foreign investment and ease some sanctions to rebuild. Syria's oil industry could help, but many oil fields are not under government control.
Key Facts
Syria has faced nearly 14 years of civil war, leaving its economy and infrastructure damaged.
The new leadership in Syria aims to rebuild the country.
The government is focusing on foreign investment to boost economic growth.
Some sanctions on Syria have been eased to help with rebuilding efforts.
Syria's oil industry was a major source of income in the past.
Many oil fields are located in Deir Az Zor, eastern Syria, still not under full government control.
Deir Az Zor faces extensive damage from the war, complicating oil production.
Oil spills in the region add to environmental and financial challenges.
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook for alleged mortgage fraud. This involves claims that Cook listed more than one property as her primary residence to obtain lower mortgage rates. The investigation follows a referral by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte and involves grand juries in Georgia and Michigan.
Key Facts
The investigation into Lisa Cook is about alleged mortgage fraud by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The allegations suggest Cook falsely listed multiple homes as her primary residence to receive better mortgage rates.
Grand jury subpoenas have been issued in Georgia and Michigan.
The investigation began after a referral from Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte.
Cook's termination by former President Trump over these claims is being legally challenged by Cook.
Ed Martin, a special assistant U.S. attorney, is handling the investigation.
The case may affect the Federal Reserve's independence in setting interest rates, a significant policy area.
Cook has stated she disclosed the mortgages when she was appointed to the Fed.
The Trump administration recently attacked a boat that was allegedly carrying Venezuelan drug smugglers in international waters. The administration referred to this action as part of a new strategy against "narco terrorists" in Latin America. This approach aligns with earlier U.S. military tactics used in the "Global War on Terror."
Key Facts
The U.S. attacked a vessel in international waters, allegedly transporting Venezuelan drug smugglers.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the order to attack came directly from President Trump.
This strategy is similar to past U.S. military actions against terrorism in the Middle East and other regions.
The attack led to the deaths of 11 alleged members of the Venezuela-based Tren de Aragua gang.
The Trump administration has designated some Latin American cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations."
This new approach could encourage further military actions against criminal groups in Latin America.
There are concerns about the legality and necessity of using military force in these situations.
Angela Rayner, UK Deputy Prime Minister, admitted she should have paid more stamp duty when buying a flat in Hove. She denied trying to avoid the tax and is being investigated for possibly breaking ministerial rules. The case involves a trust set up for her disabled son, which influenced her tax situation.
Key Facts
Angela Rayner is the UK Deputy Prime Minister.
Rayner bought a three-bedroom flat in Hove for £800,000.
She admitted she should have paid a higher stamp duty rate.
A trust for her disabled son affected her tax situation.
The Tories requested an investigation into her tax affairs.
Rayner's lawyer reviewed her tax position and gave a legal opinion.
Rayner referred herself for investigation by the Prime Minister's ethics adviser.
She claimed the initial legal advice she received was incorrect.
Washington DC has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming that the deployment of the National Guard in the capital city was done without permission from local leaders and violates federal law. The lawsuit was filed by DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb and argues that the presence of troops interferes with the city's autonomy and economy. The Trump administration has defended its actions, stating they aim to reduce crime and violence in the city.
Key Facts
Washington DC is suing the Trump administration over National Guard deployment.
The lawsuit claims President Trump sent troops to DC without local leaders' consent.
DC Attorney General says the deployment undermines city autonomy and harms the economy.
The lawsuit was filed on the grounds of illegal federal overreach.
President Trump began deploying troops on August 11, 2023.
The deployment includes National Guard and federal law enforcement agents.
A federal judge ruled a previous deployment to Los Angeles violated federal law.
The White House claims the troops reduce crime, stating crime rates have decreased.
DC's mayor opposes the deployment, saying it's expensive and unnecessary.
The U.S. Senate is considering Stephen Miran, nominated by President Trump for a vacant Federal Reserve governor position. The confirmation process is moving quickly as there are various ongoing issues regarding the Federal Reserve's independence, including a legal case involving Fed governor Lisa Cook. There is debate over how much control the president should have over the Federal Reserve.
Key Facts
Stephen Miran is President Trump's nominee for a Fed governor role.
Miran supports changes to increase presidential control over the Fed.
The Senate is holding a confirmation hearing for Miran quickly, before an upcoming Fed policy meeting.
There is a legal dispute involving Fed governor Lisa Cook, with allegations related to her mortgage activities.
The Justice Department has reportedly started a criminal investigation into Cook.
The Federal Reserve Act provides that Fed governors serve long terms and can only be fired for cause.
Some senators, including Republicans, express the need for Fed independence.
Democrats oppose Miran's confirmation, raising concerns about the Fed's independence under Trump's influence.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated that the government's handling of COVID-19 was politicized and included false claims about vaccines and masks. He testified before a Senate committee, arguing that the public was misled about various aspects of the pandemic response. Some of his claims have been disputed or labeled as misleading.
Key Facts
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Health and Human Services Secretary.
He claimed the U.S. government lied about the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and masks.
Kennedy testified during a Senate Finance Committee hearing.
He mentioned issues with the handling of natural immunity and mask guidelines by the CDC.
The CDC's guidance on COVID-19 vaccines and masks changed throughout the pandemic.
Earlier statements from CDC in 2021 suggested vaccinated people did not spread COVID-19.
More than 20 medical societies have called for Kennedy's resignation.
Kennedy has a history as an anti-vaccine advocate and has adjusted U.S. vaccine recommendations.
CNN's medical correspondent Sanjay Gupta discusses pain management in his new book, "It Doesn't Have to Hurt: Your Smart Guide to a Pain-Free Life." Gupta shares personal experiences and explains how the brain processes pain, and how it can be managed through techniques like meditation and distraction.
Key Facts
Sanjay Gupta is a neurosurgeon and CNN's Chief Medical Correspondent.
Gupta describes a personal injury where he felt little pain at the time, which he credits to the body's natural pain relief.
His book explores different causes of pain and treatments, including medication and mental techniques.
Techniques like distraction and meditation can help reduce the perception of pain.
The book highlights how the brain sometimes makes mistakes in processing pain, like with phantom limb pain.
Gupta explains the body's endogenous opioid system, which can naturally ease pain.
The book suggests that mental training can reduce pain perception.
Gupta also touches on how the brain can misinterpret pain signals, leading to chronic pain.
A new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in 15 deaths, including four health workers. Tests have identified the Zaire strain of the virus in the central Kasai province, where there are 28 suspected cases. The World Health Organization and local teams are working to stop the outbreak.
Key Facts
A new Ebola outbreak in DR Congo has killed 15 people.
The outbreak is in the central Kasai province.
28 suspected cases have been recorded.
Tests confirmed the presence of the Zaire strain of Ebola.
Four health workers are among those who have died.
DR Congo has a stockpile of Ebola treatments, including 2,000 doses of a vaccine.
The World Health Organization is involved in efforts to contain the virus.
The last Ebola outbreak in DR Congo occurred three years ago, resulting in six deaths.
Senators from both parties questioned Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about his vaccine policies during a Senate hearing. Criticism focused on his limits on COVID-19 vaccine access, changes to the CDC's vaccine panel, and the firing of CDC chief Susan Monarez.
Key Facts
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the Health and Human Services Secretary.
During a Senate hearing, Kennedy faced calls to resign and criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.
His changes include canceling mRNA vaccine research funding and restricting COVID-19 vaccine access to high-risk groups and those over 65.
Kennedy replaced the CDC's 17-member vaccine advisory panel with members criticized for being vaccine skeptics.
Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy accused him of limiting vaccine access, which he pledged not to do during his confirmation.
Kennedy defended his actions by claiming they were necessary to improve the health agencies' standards.
He dismissed CDC chief Susan Monarez after just a month, citing trust issues.
Ron Johnson defended Kennedy, calling criticisms from other senators "abuse."
The U.S. announced its financial support for a new HIV prevention drug called lenacapavir. This drug, which only needs to be taken twice a year, aims to reach 2 million people by 2028, especially in countries heavily affected by HIV/AIDS. The U.S. will work with these countries to prevent the spread of HIV and focus on reducing mother-to-child transmission.
Key Facts
The U.S. is financially backing a new HIV prevention drug called lenacapavir.
Lenacapavir is an injectable drug that only needs to be administered twice a year.
The drug could reach up to 2 million people by 2028.
The U.S. plans to help countries with major HIV/AIDS epidemics reduce virus transmission.
Lenacapavir offers almost complete protection against contracting HIV, based on clinical trials.
The initiative is in partnership with the Global Fund and Gilead Sciences.
Results showed the drug could help prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
The U.S. leads global efforts against HIV/AIDS, largely through its PEPFAR program.
The article highlights the significant impact of Giorgio Armani, a famous Italian fashion designer, through the perspectives of celebrities like Beyoncé and Naomi Campbell. Over his career, Armani became known for creating timeless designs and not following fashion trends. Armani passed away at the age of 91 and is remembered for redefining modern men's and women's suits.
Key Facts
Giorgio Armani was an Italian fashion designer.
Famous personalities like Beyoncé and Naomi Campbell admired his work.
Beyoncé described feeling "fabulous" when wearing her first Armani outfit.
Naomi Campbell stated that Armani did not follow fashion trends.
Armani was known for modernizing men's and women's suits.
He passed away at 91 years old.
Armani left a legacy of Italian style and elegance in fashion.
