Eight Syrian soldiers were injured in Israeli airstrikes near Damascus on Thursday night, according to Syria's defence ministry. The strikes, launched from the occupied Syrian Golan, targeted a site near Damascus. Israel rarely comments on individual strikes but has repeatedly targeted Iranian presence in Syria. The strikes have increased since Israel's war with Hamas began in October. Recent tensions have escalated with Iran launching drones and missiles against Israel in April, retaliating against a deadly strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus.

John Hopkins University professor Dipali Mukhopadhyay has requested to revoke her affiliation with Columbia University's Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies over the handling of student protests against Gaza violence. Arrests continue across US campuses as police dismantle pro-Palestinian protest camps, including at UCLA. In an email to Columbia's president, Mukhopadhyay cited the administration's "incompetence and inhumanity" in responding to peaceful protests. Expressing solidarity with students advocating for academic freedom, she declared her inability to justify her association with the institution under the current leadership.

Princess Charlotte's ninth birthday was commemorated with a photograph shared by Catherine, Princess of Wales, as she continues her private fight against cancer. Kate Middleton, credited with taking the picture, also recently captured an image of her younger son, Prince Louis, on his sixth birthday. Amidst health concerns, Charlotte remains third in line to the throne, following her elder brother Prince George and father, Prince William. The royal family faces challenges with Kate's absence from public life and her father-in-law, King Charles III, also undergoing cancer treatment, their specific conditions undisclosed.            

President Biden spoke up about the protests happening in universities across the US regarding the situation in Gaza. He said people have the right to speak out but shouldn't cause trouble or violence. Biden stressed the importance of peaceful protest and said damaging property or disrupting classes isn't acceptable. He also said it's vital for democracy to allow people to express their opinions without causing chaos. Despite calls for military involvement, Biden said no and emphasized the need for order. The protests reflect the complicated relationship between the US and Israel during the ongoing conflict.

Russia announced the capture of Berdychi village in eastern Ukraine, as its forces continue to advance against Ukrainian troops. The move comes ahead of the arrival of US weapons for Kyiv's defense. Moscow's defense ministry stated troops "fully liberated" Berdychi, while Kyiv confirmed its retreat from the village. Berdychi, near Avdiivka, marks the latest in a series of claimed gains by Russia in recent weeks. Ukraine's commander-in-chief cited tactical challenges in the area, acknowledging Russia's progress.

Israel's military is under scrutiny following the shooting of an eight-year-old Palestinian boy, Adam, and his friend Basil, 15. Evidence suggests serious human rights violations, prompting accusations of a possible war crime. Witnesses and footage indicate the boys posed no immediate threat when shot by soldiers. Concerns arise over the use of lethal force and alleged mistreatment of the deceased. Experts call for an investigation into potential breaches of international law. The incident highlights escalating tensions in the West Bank, raising questions about the military's conduct and its impact on Palestinian civilians.

Israel's President Isaac Herzog condemns US universities for being "contaminated by hatred and anti-Semitism" amid campus unrest over Israel's conflict with Gaza. Herzog expresses support for Jewish communities and denounces the celebration of atrocities against Israel. Tensions escalate as protests spread across US campuses, challenging administrators to balance free speech with allegations of criminal activity and hate speech. The offensive in Gaza has claimed thousands of lives, prompting widespread condemnation and protests. Herzog's message underscores solidarity with Jewish communities worldwide, emphasizing Israel's stance against hostility and threats.          

A new poll has shaken up the London mayoral race, showing Sadiq Khan's lead over Susan Hall at its smallest margin yet. With just a week to go, the Savanta survey puts Khan at 46% and Hall at 33%, a 13-point lead. This is significantly closer than earlier polls, which had Khan ahead by 24-25 points. The findings suggest a potential upset, with key battlegrounds emerging in South and West London. Khan still leads comfortably in North and East London, but the race is now much tighter than expected."

Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated US opposition to a significant military operation in Gaza's Rafah, expressing concerns about civilian casualties. During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Blinken emphasized the need for alternative approaches to address the Hamas challenge without endangering civilians. Netanyahu has pledged to launch an assault on Rafah, despite US objections. Blinken's remarks underscore ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in the region. The US remains committed to dialogue with Israeli leaders to explore alternative strategies for dealing with Hamas.            

A former Spirit AeroSystems employee, Joshua Dean, known for flagging lax standards in Boeing 737 MAX production, passed away after a sudden illness. Dean, who alleged retaliation for raising quality concerns, was hailed for his courage by lawyer Brian Knowles. His death follows that of another Boeing whistleblower, John Barnett. Spirit AeroSystems expressed condolences, emphasizing Dean's sudden loss. The company faces scrutiny after a 737 MAX 9 door panel incident. Dean's actions underscore whistleblower challenges in the aviation industry, with his death prompting reflection on safety and quality standards.