Israeli military forces successfully rescued four Israeli hostages, including one woman, abducted by Hamas from the Nova Music Festival on October 7. The complex operation, executed on Saturday in Gaza's Nuseirat area, freed Noa Argamani (25), Almog Meir Jan (21), Andrey Kozlov (27), and Shlomi Ziv (40), who are reportedly in good medical condition. This rare rescue, eight months into the Israel-Hamas conflict, underscores ongoing tensions as the military continues targeting terrorist infrastructure in Gaza. The operation coincided with intensified airstrikes in central Gaza, which hospital sources say resulted in civilian casualties.

The United Nations has added Israel and Hamas to its annual list of parties responsible for human rights violations against children in armed conflict. This is the first time Israel has been included on the list, which also features Russia, ISIS, and Boko Haram. The move comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza and mounting international calls for a ceasefire. The UN Secretary-General's report highlights alleged violations, including attacks on schools and hospitals. Israel has reacted with outrage, while the UN Security Council may consider action, although the US has historically been reluctant to act against its ally Israel.

An Air Canada Boeing jet carrying 389 passengers from Toronto to Paris made an emergency landing on Wednesday night due to an engine fire shortly after takeoff. Witnesses captured footage of flames shooting out of the plane's tail end, which quickly went viral. The flight crew sprang into action, declaring an emergency and returning to Toronto Pearson International Airport. Fire personnel greeted the plane as it landed safely, and all passengers were evacuated without injury. Air Canada confirmed the incident, citing an "engine issue," and an investigation is underway.

William Anders, the astronaut who captured the first color photo of Earth from space, has died in a plane crash off the coast of Washington state. Anders, 90, was piloting the small aircraft when it plummeted into the water on Friday. His son confirmed the death, describing the family as "devastated". Anders was part of the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, the first human spaceflight to leave Earth's orbit. He took the iconic "Earthrise" photo, showing the Earth rising over the lunar horizon. Anders' legacy as a pioneering astronaut and photographer will be deeply missed.

Israeli air strike targeted a UN school in Gaza, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. Local reports indicate at least 35 people, including children and women, were killed. The strike hit classrooms where displaced Palestinians sought refuge. Israel claims it targeted a Hamas compound within the school, alleging militants were present. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees condemned the attack, emphasizing the protection of civilians. The incident adds to the toll of the ongoing conflict, with calls for accountability and urgent efforts to cease hostilities. International mediators continue to push for a ceasefire amid escalating violence.

Israel's military strike on a UN school in Gaza claimed numerous lives, with Hamas denouncing it as a "horrific massacre." The strike, targeting what Israel claimed was a Hamas compound within the school, resulted in at least 27 fatalities and numerous injuries. The incident further exacerbates the ongoing conflict, with diplomatic efforts underway to secure a ceasefire and negotiate the release of hostages. Despite international backing for a truce proposal outlined by US President Biden, challenges persist as Hamas insists on a permanent ceasefire. The situation remains tense, with heightened security measures in Jerusalem amid annual right-wing marches.            

For the first time, British banknotes featuring King Charles III entered circulation on Wednesday. The notes, available in £5, £10, £20, and £50 denominations, will circulate alongside those bearing Queen Elizabeth II's image. This marks a significant change nearly two years after King Charles ascended the throne. Coins with his image have been in use since December 2022. Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey called this a historic moment. Despite the rise in digital payments, the bank remains committed to providing cash. The new polymer notes will gradually replace older versions.

Donald Trump secured the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election, despite his recent conviction for falsifying business records. Trump dominated the final state primaries, winning 85% of the vote in New Mexico and 91% in Montana. Former rival Nikki Haley, who ended her campaign months ago, still garnered notable support, with 9% in New Mexico and significant percentages in other states. Analysts are uncertain if this minority support for Haley could impact Trump in the general election against President Joe Biden, or if her supporters will ultimately back Trump in November.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to sanction the International Criminal Court (ICC) after its prosecutor sought arrest warrants for Israeli officials over the Gaza conflict. The vote was 247 to 155, with 42 Democrats joining Republicans. The bill proposes sanctions on individuals involved in ICC prosecutions of Americans or U.S. allies' citizens, including Israel, and restricts their U.S. entry and property transactions. Despite White House criticism and its unlikely passage in the Democrat-controlled Senate, the measure underscores strong congressional support for Israel amid global criticism of its Gaza operations.

Nigel Farage, leader of the anti-immigration Reform UK party, announced his candidacy for the UK general election. He will run in the pro-Brexit Clacton seat on July 4. Farage, 60, said he changed his mind to support his longtime followers. His decision adds pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, as Reform UK is polling at 11%, potentially splitting the right-wing vote and harming the Conservatives. Farage aims to challenge both major parties, declaring a political revolt against the status quo. Farage has previously failed seven times to become an MP but was a European Parliament member.