France's high-speed rail network was disrupted by "malicious acts" on the eve of the Paris Olympics. Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete reported coordinated attacks on several TGV lines, causing significant delays. The incident occurred overnight, with services expected to be impacted until the weekend. SNCF, the national rail operator, is working to restore normal operations. The cause and perpetrator are currently unknown. An investigation is underway. The disruption affects a significant portion of the network, with passengers advised to expect delays and plan accordingly. Authorities are working to resolve the issue promptly.

Elizabeth Francis has celebrated her 115th birthday, making her the oldest living American. She has witnessed historic events like the Titanic's sinking, both World Wars, and even Donald Trump's presidency. Francis became the oldest person in the US in February after Edie Ceccarelli's passing. She received recognition from LongeviQuest, an organization tracking the world's oldest individuals. Francis' remarkable life has spanned over a century, making her a living piece of American history. Her longevity is an inspiration, and her life experiences are a testament to her strength and resilience.

A recent CNN/SSRS poll shows Vice-President Kamala Harris leading Donald Trump among Black and Hispanic voters. Harris garnered 78% support from Black voters, compared to Trump's 15%. However, her lead is less than Biden's in 2020, when he had a 70-23% advantage. While Harris' support is promising, it still needs to increase in key states to secure a November victory. The survey highlights Harris' strength among marginalized communities, but also indicates she has work to do to match Biden's level of support.

A joint warning from the UK, US, and South Korea has identified a North Korean hacking group, Andariel and Onyx Sleet, targeting defense, aerospace, and nuclear entities globally. The group's objective is to obtain classified information to advance North Korea's military and nuclear capabilities. Targets include government agencies, defense companies, and research institutions in the UK, US, South Korea, Japan, India, and other countries. The hackers are seeking information on various military technologies, including uranium processing, tanks, submarines, and torpedoes. The warning aims to raise awareness and prevent potential cyber attacks.

During a White House meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised President Joe Biden for his "50 years of support for the state of Israel." The visit follows Netanyahu's address to Congress amid widespread pro-Palestinian protests. Netanyahu emphasized their long-standing relationship and Biden's ties to past Israeli leaders. They discussed key issues, including the Gaza war, Iran's threat, and potential peace talks. Despite some disagreements, the US-Israel relationship remains strong. Protests against Netanyahu’s visit resulted in 23 arrests, highlighting the political tensions surrounding the ongoing conflict.

Nepalese authorities have recovered the black box from the Saurya Airlines Bombardier CRJ-200 crash site. The aircraft, carrying 19 passengers and crew, caught fire shortly after takeoff from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, resulting in 18 fatalities. The sole survivor, pilot Captain Manish Raj Shakya, is in critical condition. The black box has been handed over to an investigation team, led by former Civil Aviation Authority Director General Ratish Chandra Lal, which has 45 days to determine the cause of the crash. Victims are being identified, with bodies expected to be released to families on Friday.

A British police officer was suspended after a video showing him violently arresting a man at Manchester Airport went viral, sparking protests. The footage, filmed by an onlooker, shows the officer kicking and stamping on a man's head during the arrest. Greater Manchester Police referred the incident to an independent complaints watchdog. The video led to protests outside Rochdale Police Station, where demonstrators chanted against police brutality. The incident occurred following a reported assault at the airport, resulting in the arrest of two men and injuries to three officers. An independent review of police conduct is underway.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu labeled pro-Palestine protesters as "Iran's useful idiots" during his fourth address to the US Congress, receiving a standing ovation despite a boycott by over 60 Democratic lawmakers. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris were among the notable absentees. Netanyahu's speech emphasized Iran's role in Middle Eastern terrorism and praised former President Donald Trump for his support of Israel. Outside, protesters demanded an end to US military aid to Israel, facing police intervention. Netanyahu is set to meet President Joe Biden, Vice President Harris, and Trump during his visit.

Russian and Chinese bomber jets, including Russia's Tu-95MS and China's Xian H-6, carried out a joint patrol over the Chukchi and Bering Seas and the North Pacific Ocean. This exercise, part of a 2024 military cooperation plan, adhered to international law and did not breach foreign airspace, as confirmed by Russia's defense ministry. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) intercepted the bombers in international airspace near Alaska, noting no threat. This patrol underscores the strengthening military ties between Russia and China amid ongoing global tensions.

Following President Biden's endorsement of Vice President Harris, voter registration saw a record increase. Vote.org reported 38,500 new registrations within 48 hours, the highest 48-hour total this election cycle. The majority (83%) of new registrants were aged 18-34. This surge surpasses the previous record of 34,000 registrations inspired by Taylor Swift's voter registration drive. The increase suggests strong enthusiasm among young Democrats and Gen Z voters for Harris' candidacy against former President Trump. The surge highlights a significant increase in voter engagement ahead of the election.