President Joe Biden pledges unwavering backing for Israel amidst rising tensions with Iran following an attack in Syria. Concerns mount over potential reprisals from Tehran after Israel's strike on an Iranian consulate, prompting Biden to emphasize U.S. commitment to Israel's security. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatens retaliation, heightening fears of escalation. Analysts speculate on possible avenues for Iranian response, including proxy attacks or cyber warfare. Amidst diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions, Biden's remarks underscore U.S. determination to stand by Israel, despite recent disagreements with Prime Minister Netanyahu over Gaza conflict strategy.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced criticism after wearing Adidas Samba trainers during an interview at his official residence. Social media users and fashion critics disapproved, stating he ruined the shoe's trendy reputation. Sunak issued an apology, emphasizing his long-standing admiration for Adidas. Defending his choice, he cited years of wearing Adidas sneakers. Despite his explanation, backlash continued, with British GQ magazine remarking that Sunak's attempt to appear youthful undermined the sneakers' cool factor. Footwear historians expressed concern, suggesting Sunak's choice could harm the iconic Samba's reputation.            

Children in Gaza spent a somber Eid al-Fitr amid the devastation of war. Seven-year-old Tala Abu Amr said, "This Eid, we miss happiness...They're all dead." Over 33,000 people, mostly women and children, have been killed. 1.7 million, including many kids, fled homes. Food is scarce. At a Rafah cemetery, families visited graves of loved ones. Fedaa Murjan mourned her eight-year-old daughter killed in an airstrike. Some tried making sweets for orphans. "Despite pain and shelling, we love life," said one man. A few children vowed to celebrate, but the holiday remained overshadowed by suffering.

Russia's foreign ministry criticizes plans for a Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, labeling it a political maneuver by the US Democratic Party ahead of the presidential election. Moscow accuses Washington of prioritizing optics over resolving the conflict, with spokeswoman Maria Zakharova alleging the event serves American Democrats' political agenda. The conference, set for June 15-16 with US President Biden expected to attend, faces further scrutiny as Russia accuses Switzerland of forsaking neutrality. Tensions escalate as Moscow vows to continue its offensive in Ukraine, amid Swiss discussions on seizing Russian assets.            

In a devastating Israeli airstrike in Gaza, three sons and two grandchildren of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh were killed. The strike targeted their car in Gaza's Al-Shati camp. Haniyeh, based abroad in Qatar, condemned the attack but vowed not to alter Hamas' stance in ongoing negotiations. The eldest son confirmed the tragic loss on Facebook. Haniyeh, appointed in 2017, has been a key figure in Hamas' diplomacy. Israel views Hamas leaders as terrorists but it's unclear how much Haniyeh knew about prior attacks. The airstrike adds to tensions amidst ceasefire talks in the war-torn region.

Indian American Impact, a US advocacy group, backs 11 additional Indian-origin candidates across six states, bringing its total endorsements to 35 for the 2024 elections. The organization aims to bolster diverse representation in American politics and has supported candidates since 2016. Taher Hasanali, National Political Director, expresses pride in endorsing candidates spanning from city council to state senate levels. Incumbents and newcomers alike, such as Ravi Shah in Arizona and Zohran Mamdani in New York, receive endorsements. This commitment reflects Indian American Impact's dedication to amplifying Indian and South Asian American voices in elected positions nationwide.

Floodwaters in Russia's Orenburg surge to unprecedented levels, prompting mass evacuations and a state of emergency. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov warns of escalating tensions as the Ural river breaches critical thresholds, inundating villages and displacing thousands. With water levels surpassing 10m, Orenburg braces for further deluge as neighbouring regions also face imminent threats. President Vladimir Putin coordinates relief efforts remotely while officials grapple with the unfolding crisis. Across the border in Kazakhstan, President Tokayev rallies unity in the face of what's described as the largest disaster in 80 years, as floodwaters threaten northern regions.

Current and former US officials express dissatisfaction with President Biden's pressure on Israel following an attack on aid workers in Gaza. They deem the response inadequate to address the humanitarian crisis. Despite increased scrutiny, Israel's commitment to aid routes is deemed insufficient. Internal dissent within the US government mounts, with officials advocating for conditioning arms supplies to Israel. The Biden administration faces criticism for its perceived unconditional support for Israel amid escalating civilian casualties in Gaza. The strain in US-Israel relations deepens as calls for reassessment of policies persist.

Ministers considering banning smartphone sales to under-16s amid rising public demand, backed by campaigns and tragedies like Brianna's death. Esther Ghey, Brianna's mom, pushes for age restrictions and tighter social media controls. A Parentkind survey reports 58% of English parents support the ban, with over 80% worried about smartphones' impact on kids. This follows recent school mobile phone guidelines. Ghey emphasizes the need for kid-friendly phones sans social apps. The discussion amplifies about protecting children's digital health.

US President Joe Biden criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of Gaza, calling it a "mistake" and urging for greater humanitarian access. Biden emphasized the need for Gaza to receive "total access to all food and medicine" for six to eight weeks. He warned that US support for the war hinges on increased aid access. Israel denies hindering aid distribution but faces international pressure for a ceasefire amid escalating violence. Biden's remarks came after Israeli strikes killed aid workers, drawing condemnation. The interview aired on Univision, underscoring growing concern over the situation in Gaza.