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American citizen released by Taliban after 9-month detention in Afghanistan

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WASHINGTON (BN24) — An American citizen detained for nine months in Afghanistan was released Sunday by the Taliban and is returning to the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced, marking the latest successful diplomatic effort to free Americans held by the group.

Amir Amiri was freed following extensive negotiations coordinated by Qatari diplomats working with the U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, according to sources with knowledge of the release. Qatar has served as the primary intermediary for American interests in Afghanistan since the Taliban regained control in 2021.

“Today we welcome home Amir Amiry, an American who was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan,” Rubio wrote on social media. “I want to thank Qatar for helping secure his freedom.”

Amiri was detained in December 2024, prompting Qatar to begin negotiating for his release in March through diplomatic channels established following the Taliban’s takeover. The Gulf nation has successfully facilitated the release of four other American citizens from Afghanistan earlier this year.

Qatari diplomats initially arranged a meeting between Amiri and U.S. Special Envoy Adam Boehler during his visit to Afghanistan, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. Throughout Amiri’s detention, Qatari officials monitored his health and maintained regular communication with U.S. authorities.

The negotiations continued for several months until Qatar achieved a breakthrough this weekend that resulted in Amiri’s freedom, sources said. The specific terms of the agreement have not been disclosed by officials.

The release follows a pattern of successful prisoner exchanges and diplomatic negotiations between the United States and the Taliban mediated by Qatar. In January, two American citizens were freed in a prisoner swap that saw the Taliban release Ryan Corbett, who had been abducted in 2022 during a work trip, in exchange for Khan Mohammed, a Taliban figure serving a life sentence in California on drug trafficking and terrorism charges.

Two additional Americans were released from Afghanistan in March through separate arrangements. Faye Hall, detained earlier that year on charges of using an unauthorized drone, was freed alongside her release, though a British couple arrested with her remained in Taliban custody until their release earlier this month.

George Glezmann, an American tourist detained during a 2022 visit to Afghanistan, was also freed in March in what former U.S. envoy to Afghanistan called “a goodwill gesture” to President Trump by the Taliban.

The series of releases reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement between the United States and Taliban authorities despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations. Qatar’s role as an intermediary has proven crucial in facilitating these negotiations and maintaining communication channels.

The Taliban’s willingness to engage in prisoner releases and negotiations has provided opportunities for resolving cases involving detained Americans, though the group continues to hold other foreign nationals. The releases have typically involved complex diplomatic negotiations rather than military operations.

Amiri’s case highlights the risks faced by American citizens traveling to or remaining in Afghanistan under Taliban control. The State Department has maintained strong advisories against travel to Afghanistan due to security concerns and the risk of arbitrary detention.

The successful resolution of Amiri’s case represents continued cooperation between the United States and Qatar in addressing hostage situations globally. Qatar has established itself as a key mediator in various international disputes and prisoner release negotiations.

The Taliban’s approach to foreign detainees appears influenced by their desire for international legitimacy and recognition, though the group has not received formal recognition from the United States or most other countries since taking power.

Special Envoy Boehler’s office has worked systematically to secure the release of Americans detained abroad, with Afghanistan representing a significant focus given the complex political situation and absence of direct diplomatic ties.

The release comes as the Trump administration continues efforts to address cases of Americans wrongfully detained overseas. The administration has prioritized hostage diplomacy and prisoner negotiations as key foreign policy objectives.

Qatar’s accord to represent U.S. interests in Afghanistan has proven valuable beyond individual prisoner releases, providing a channel for broader communication and coordination on humanitarian and diplomatic issues.

The pattern of successful releases suggests that diplomatic engagement through third-party mediators can be effective even in complex political situations where direct bilateral relations remain suspended or absent.

Amiri’s return to the United States concludes a nine-month ordeal that involved sustained diplomatic pressure and negotiation across multiple governmental levels and international partners.

Source: cbsnews

New York City Mayor Eric Adams abandons his reelection campaign

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NEW YORK (BN24) — Mayor Eric Adams announced Sunday that he is abandoning his reelection campaign, citing constant media speculation about his political future and the city’s campaign finance board’s decision to withhold public funding from his effort.

In a video released on social media, Adams spoke with pride about his achievements as mayor, particularly highlighting a drop in violent crime during his tenure. However, he acknowledged that external pressures had made continuing his campaign impossible.

“Despite all we’ve achieved, I cannot continue my reelection campaign,” Adams said in the announcement that ended weeks of speculation about his political viability.

The one-term Democrat’s decision represents a dramatic reversal from his repeated insistence just days earlier that he would remain in the contest, telling supporters that everyday New Yorkers do not “surrender” when facing adversity.

Adams’ withdrawal from the race follows a year of mounting challenges that severely damaged his political standing, including his now-dismissed federal bribery case and liberal criticism over his increasingly warm relationship with President Donald Trump. He had skipped the Democratic primary and qualified for the ballot as an independent candidate.

The mayor did not endorse any remaining candidates in his departure announcement but warned against “insidious forces” attempting to use local government to “advance divisive agendas.” He cautioned voters against candidates promoting dramatic systemic changes.

“Major change is welcome and necessary, but beware of those who claim the answer is to destroy the very system we built over generations,” Adams said. “That is not change, that is chaos. Instead, I urge leaders to choose leaders not by what they promise, but by what they have delivered.”

Adams’ exit could potentially benefit former Governor Andrew Cuomo, a fellow centrist who has positioned himself as the only candidate capable of defeating the Democratic Party’s nominee, state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. However, it remains unclear whether sufficient Adams supporters would shift allegiance to Cuomo to significantly impact the race dynamics.

Mamdani, 33, would become the city’s youngest and most liberal mayor in generations if elected. He defeated Cuomo decisively in the Democratic primary by campaigning on promises to reduce living costs in one of the world’s most expensive cities.

Republican Curtis Sliwa remains in the race despite facing criticism from within his own party, including Trump’s recent characterization of him as “not exactly prime time” during a media interview.

Governor Kathy Hochul, who has endorsed Mamdani, issued a statement following Adams’ announcement expressing pride in their four-year working relationship and crediting him with leaving the city “better than he inherited it.”

Recent polling illustrated Adams’ challenging position in the race. September surveys by The New York Times and Siena University, as well as Quinnipiac University, showed likely voters favoring Mamdani over Cuomo, with both Sliwa and Adams trailing significantly behind the frontrunners.

The Quinnipiac poll suggested the gap between Mamdani and Cuomo could narrow if Adams withdrew from the contest. The Times/Siena poll indicated that if both Adams and Sliwa exited the race, Mamdani’s advantage over Cuomo could shrink further, though Sliwa has repeatedly insisted he will not quit under any circumstances.

Trump administration intermediaries had recently approached Adams about potentially leaving the race in exchange for a federal government position, aiming to create a one-on-one matchup between Cuomo and Mamdani that might favor the former governor.

Following reports of those discussions, Adams held a news conference pledging to continue his campaign and dismissing Cuomo and Mamdani as “spoiled brats.” He later escalated his criticism on social media, calling Cuomo “a liar and a snake.”

Adams, 65, serves as the city’s second Black mayor. A former New York City police captain and Brooklyn borough president, he took office in 2022 promising to reduce crime and revitalize the city with his signature “swagger” as it recovered from the coronavirus pandemic.

On his primary campaign promise, Adams achieved measurable success. Crime rates that increased after COVID-19 struck the city have returned to pre-pandemic levels, though the extent to which Adams’ policies contributed to this improvement remains debated.

However, Adams’ focus on reducing crime and disorder has been overshadowed repeatedly by corruption scandals, federal investigations and lawsuits alleging extensive favor-trading at the highest levels of city government.

During a tumultuous period last year, his police commissioner, schools chancellor and several deputy mayors resigned following federal raids on their homes, though none have faced criminal charges.

Federal prosecutors brought fraud and bribery charges against Adams in late September, alleging he accepted illegal campaign contributions and travel discounts from Turkish officials in exchange for expediting approvals for Turkey’s diplomatic building and other favors.

Adams denied wrongdoing and pledged to remain in office while fighting the charges. Simultaneously, he began speaking favorably about Trump, who appeared increasingly likely to regain the presidency. Adams defended Trump in media briefings, urged his party to moderate criticism of the Republican, and largely stopped promoting Democratic opponent Kamala Harris.

After Trump’s electoral victory, Adams met with border czar Thomas Homan and pledged city cooperation with aspects of the new administration’s immigration enforcement agenda.

In February, Trump’s Justice Department ordered federal prosecutors in New York to drop charges against Adams, enabling the mayor to assist with the Republican president’s immigration policies.

The extraordinary federal intervention triggered fresh turmoil at City Hall and within the Manhattan U.S. attorney’s office, with Adams’ allies suggesting he had negotiated a deal with the White House for his legal freedom.

Adams announced he would skip the June Democratic primary while remaining in the general election race as an independent candidate.

His return to active campaigning this summer brought renewed scandal. In late August, his former top advisor faced fresh bribery charges while serving as a campaign volunteer. Another former aide was removed from the campaign after delivering a potato chip bag filled with cash to a local reporter.

Throughout recent weeks, Adams had rejected mounting pressure to withdraw from the race to improve Cuomo’s chances against Mamdani.

“History is going to be kind to me when I’m out of the political spotlight 10, 15 years from now, and they look over and say: You know what? We got to give this guy his due,” Adams said recently. “That’s what I’m fighting for.”

Adams’ withdrawal reshapes the final weeks of the mayoral campaign, potentially consolidating moderate voters behind Cuomo while Mamdani retains strong progressive support heading toward the November election.

1 person dead and 9 injured as shooter targets Mormon church in Michigan, sets building on fire

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GRAND BLANC, Mich. (BN24) — A gunman killed one person and injured nine others during Sunday services at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before setting the building on fire and being shot dead by police in what authorities described as a coordinated attack on the Grand Blanc Township congregation.

The 40-year-old Burton man rammed his vehicle through the front doors of the church around mid-morning and immediately began firing at hundreds of worshippers with an assault rifle, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said during an afternoon briefing.

The suspect then deliberately set multiple fires throughout the building before police engaged and killed him, ending the assault that terrorized the peaceful community. Several victims remain in critical condition while others are stable, according to authorities.

“We do believe we will find some additional victims once we find the area where the fire was,” Renye said as first responders continued sifting through the wreckage after extinguishing the blaze that consumed much of the church structure.

Genesee County Sheriff Christopher Swanson described the scene as dynamic and extensive, with the entire church building engulfed in flames for hours before firefighters could bring the blaze under control. Black smoke was visible for miles across the rural township.

President Donald Trump said he was briefed on the shooting and fire, calling for an end to violence in American communities. “The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!”

The FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives responded to the scene to assist with the investigation into what Attorney General Pam Bondi characterized as heartbreaking violence at a place of worship.

“Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling,” Bondi said in a statement, while FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino pledged to “provide any requested support necessary” for the investigation.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed grief for the Grand Blanc community following the attack. “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” Whitmer said. “I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly.”

The attack occurred during regular Sunday worship services when the church typically hosts hundreds of congregants. The gunman’s vehicle crash through the front entrance created chaos as worshippers scrambled for safety while the armed assault began.

Police have not released a motive for either the shooting or the arson, though investigators believe both were deliberate acts by the same individual. The coordinated nature of the attack suggested planning and preparation by the suspect.

Scott Bennett, Grand Blanc Township supervisor, described the incident as “a tragedy that nobody wants to encounter” in the normally quiet community known for its peaceful atmosphere and close-knit neighborhoods.

Joe Ostrander, a 25-year-old lifelong Grand Blanc resident who was driving to the church when he learned of the attack, expressed shock at violence in his hometown. “I’ve never heard of anything like this ever happening in my city,” Ostrander said, describing Grand Blanc as “peaceful, quiet, small” and full of local businesses.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in a residential area near other religious institutions, sits surrounded by parking lots and lawn space that became staging areas for emergency responders and evacuated congregants.

The New York Police Department deployed officers to religious institutions across the city “out of an abundance of caution” following reports of the Michigan attack, demonstrating the broader security concerns triggered by violence at places of worship.

The shooting occurred one day after Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at age 101. Church protocol indicates that Dallin H. Oaks is expected to become the next president of the faith commonly known as the Mormon church.

First responders evacuated all surviving congregants from the burning building while simultaneously engaging the armed suspect. The complex emergency response required coordination between multiple law enforcement agencies and fire departments to address both the active shooter situation and the structural fire.

The investigation continues as authorities work to identify all victims and determine the full scope of casualties from both the shooting and fire. The deliberate nature of the arson has complicated recovery efforts and victim identification processes.

The attack represents one of the most serious incidents of violence targeting religious institutions in Michigan in recent years, raising questions about security measures at houses of worship and the vulnerability of congregations during services.

Community leaders and religious organizations across Michigan have expressed solidarity with the Grand Blanc congregation while grappling with the implications of the coordinated attack on Sunday worship services.

The Grand Blanc Township church served a significant Mormon population in the Genesee County area, hosting regular worship services, community events, and religious education programs that brought together families from across the region.

Federal investigators will examine the suspect’s background, potential motives, and whether the attack was connected to broader patterns of violence targeting religious communities or represented an isolated incident specific to the individual perpetrator.

Colombian President accuses U.S. of violating International Law after visa revoked over Gaza protest

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BOGOTÁ, Colombia (BN24) — Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Saturday condemned the United States’ decision to revoke his visa, accusing Washington of violating international law and suppressing political dissent following his participation in a pro-Palestinian demonstration in New York.

The U.S. State Department announced Friday it would revoke Petro’s travel visa in response to what it called “reckless and incendiary actions” during his visit to the United Nations General Assembly, where he joined demonstrators criticizing Israel’s military operations in Gaza. During the protest, Petro called on U.S. soldiers to disobey orders from President Donald Trump and urged the international community to intervene on behalf of Palestinians.

Addressing the decision publicly, Petro said he no longer had a visa to enter the United States, but claimed he was unbothered. “I don’t care. I don’t need a visa,” he posted on the social platform X, formerly Twitter. “I’m not only a Colombian citizen but a European citizen, and I truly consider myself a free person in the world.”

He went on to accuse the U.S. of targeting him for his condemnation of Israel’s war in Gaza, saying, “Revoking [the visa] for denouncing genocide shows the U.S. no longer respects international law.”

Petro has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, where more than 65,000 people have been killed, according to health authorities in the Hamas-controlled enclave. The entire population has been internally displaced, prompting accusations from international rights organizations and a United Nations inquiry that Israel’s campaign may amount to genocide—allegations Israel firmly denies. Israeli officials maintain their military actions are a justified response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, in which 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 hostages were taken.

Speaking outside the U.N. headquarters in Manhattan, Petro told protesters that the world must create a global armed force to “liberate Palestine” and directly urged U.S. military personnel to defy commands. “Do not point your guns at people,” he said. “Disobey the orders of Trump. Obey the orders of humanity.”

The U.S. State Department cited those remarks in its justification for revoking his visa, calling them unacceptable for a visiting head of state.

The diplomatic fallout drew sharp criticism from Colombian officials. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning the U.S. move, calling the use of visa policy as a political tool inconsistent with international norms. The ministry urged the United Nations to consider relocating its headquarters to a more neutral country, one that would not weaponize entry permissions to control discourse among member states.

“The U.N. should find a completely neutral host country … that would allow the Organization itself to issue authorization to enter the territory of that new host State,” the statement read.

Tensions between Bogotá and Washington have escalated since Trump’s return to the White House. Earlier this year, Petro halted deportation flights from the U.S., a move that led to threats of economic sanctions. Although the two governments later reached an agreement, friction remained.

In July, both countries withdrew their ambassadors after Petro accused U.S. officials of conspiring to overthrow his government—an allegation that U.S. diplomats rejected as baseless.

Petro’s stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict has also contributed to deteriorating ties. In 2024, Colombia cut diplomatic relations with Israel. It imposed a ban on coal exports to the country, marking one of the most severe breaks between the South American nation and a key U.S. ally in the Middle East.

The visa revocation brings back memories of a previous diplomatic scandal in Colombia. In 1996, then-President Ernesto Samper had his U.S. visa canceled over allegations that his presidential campaign received funding from the Cali drug cartel.

For Petro, the latest move underscores what he claims is a growing crackdown on leaders who speak out against the West’s geopolitical interests. He reiterated his position on Saturday, insisting that human rights and international law should take precedence over political alliances.

The U.S. has not indicated whether additional sanctions or diplomatic measures may follow.

Russia launches massive attack on Kyiv, ‘kills at least four people’

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KYIV, Ukraine — Russia launched one of its most massive attacks on Ukraine’s capital since the war began, killing at least four people including a 12-year-old girl and injuring around 40 others in overnight drone and missile strikes that targeted residential buildings and civilian infrastructure across Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia fired nearly 500 strike drones and more than 40 missiles in the coordinated assault that began around 6 a.m. local time, marking what independent monitors described as one of the biggest strikes on the city since February 2022.

The attack prompted Poland to close airspace near its southeastern cities of Lublin and Rzeszow while scrambling fighter jets in response to the massive Russian offensive. Anti-aircraft fire rang out through the night as drones flew over the Ukrainian capital, forcing some residents to seek shelter in deep underground metro stations.

Kyiv city administrator Tymur Tkachenko confirmed that a 12-year-old girl was among the fatalities, writing on Telegram that “the Russians have restarted the child death counter.” Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that strikes targeted residential buildings, civilian infrastructure, a medical facility and a children’s nursery, with damage reported at more than 20 locations across the capital.

“This is how Russia is making its real position known,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram following the assault. “Moscow wants to continue to fight and kill and deserves only the harshest pressure in the world.”

The coordinated strikes extended beyond Kyiv to multiple Ukrainian regions including Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy and Odessa. In Zaporizhzhia, at least 16 people including three children were injured in the southern city, according to local authorities.

Zelensky characterized the overnight bombardment as “brutal strikes” that demonstrated Russia’s continued commitment to escalating the conflict through attacks on civilian targets. The scale and intensity of the assault represented a significant escalation in Russian tactics targeting Ukraine’s capital.

Polish military officials described their airspace closure as preventive measures aimed at securing national airspace and protecting citizens. “In connection with the activity of the Russian Federation’s long-range aviation carrying out strikes on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft have begun operating in our airspace,” the Polish military announced on X.

Flight tracking service Flightradar24 attributed the Polish airspace restrictions to “unplanned military activity related to ensuring state security,” highlighting the cross-border implications of Russia’s expanded assault on Ukrainian territory.

The massive attack occurred as tensions between Russia and NATO members have increased over allegations that Moscow has violated the airspace of several neighboring countries in recent weeks. NATO recently conducted air defense missions over Poland in response to what officials described as “unprecedented” Russian drone incursions.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov addressed the United Nations Saturday amid the growing airspace violation allegations, insisting during his speech at the 80th UN General Assembly that Russia had no intention of attacking NATO or European Union member states while warning of “decisive response” to any aggression against Moscow.

“Threats of force against Russia, accused of practically planning an attack on the North Atlantic Alliance and the European Union, are becoming increasingly common,” Lavrov said in New York. “Russia has never had and does not have such intentions, but any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response.”

During a subsequent news conference, Lavrov addressed questions about potential responses to nations shooting down Russian drones or aircraft. “If there are attempts to shoot down any flying object, or indeed any object at all, on our territory, in our airspace, then I think people will seriously regret it, undertaking such a gross violation of our territorial integrity, our sovereignty,” he warned.

The foreign minister, who has held his position for 21 years, maintained that Moscow “has nothing to hide” regarding allegations of airspace violations while defending Russia’s right to respond to perceived threats against its territory.

The overnight assault on Kyiv demonstrated Russia’s continued capability to launch large-scale coordinated attacks despite nearly three years of warfare and international sanctions. The targeting of civilian infrastructure and residential areas reflects ongoing Russian tactics aimed at undermining Ukrainian morale and infrastructure.

International observers noted the timing of the massive attack coinciding with Lavrov’s UN appearance, suggesting potential coordination between diplomatic messaging and military operations to reinforce Russian positions through both diplomatic and military channels.

The scale of the overnight bombardment, involving hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, represents one of Russia’s most significant single-day attacks on Ukrainian territory in recent months, indicating continued Russian military capacity despite equipment losses and international sanctions.

The civilian casualties, particularly the death of a 12-year-old girl, underscore the continued impact of the conflict on non-combatant populations in Ukrainian urban centers. The targeting of medical facilities and children’s nurseries raises additional concerns about compliance with international humanitarian law.

Ukrainian air defense systems engaged the incoming missiles and drones throughout the night, though the extent of successful interceptions was not immediately clear. The sustained nature of the attack challenged Ukrainian defensive capabilities while demonstrating Russian coordination across multiple launch platforms.

The assault’s impact on civilian infrastructure may affect essential services in affected Ukrainian cities, potentially disrupting power, water and communication systems that serve millions of residents across the targeted regions.

Source: skynews

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco tie the knot in star-studded California wedding

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SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (BN24) — Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco sealed their love in a glamorous California wedding Saturday evening, celebrating their union with family, friends, and celebrity guests despite a drizzle that failed to dampen spirits.

Gomez, 33, wed Blanco, 37, at a sprawling 70-acre private estate just north of Santa Barbara. The ceremony capped off a weekend of festivities, which began Friday night with a lavish rehearsal dinner at a 10-bedroom mansion in Goleta’s exclusive Hope Ranch neighborhood.

Ahead of the wedding, Gomez shared a series of romantic photographs with Blanco on Instagram, giving fans a glimpse into the couple’s joyful moments leading up to the ceremony. In the images, Gomez gazed at her groom as they strolled barefoot across a sunlit lawn, embraced, and posed together in tender displays of affection.

The bride wore a backless white gown adorned with ruffled detailing at the neckline, paired with platinum-and-diamond Tiffany & Co. earrings. She styled her dark hair into a sleek bob and completed her look with sparkling jewelry and white nail polish. Blanco chose a classic Ralph Lauren black tuxedo, accented with a blue-print dress shirt and matching pocket square.

In one especially intimate photograph, Blanco reclined across Gomez’s lap as her gown fanned out around them, capturing the warmth of their relationship. In another, Gomez posed alone with her bouquet, inhaling its fragrance with a serene smile.

As the couple’s photos circulated online Saturday afternoon, guests began boarding black Mercedes vans en route to the clifftop nursery where the ceremony was held. Among the attendees were comedian Eric Andre, 42, and Stuart Camp, manager of singer Ed Sheeran.

The wedding brought together a blend of Hollywood glamour and personal intimacy, reflecting the couple’s nearly two-year relationship, which began in 2023 and culminated in their engagement last year.

Source: DAILYMAIL

Elon Musk hits back at ‘false narrative’ after being linked to Epstein files

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NEW YORK (BN24) — Elon Musk forcefully denied any ties to Jeffrey Epstein after his name appeared in newly released records associated with the late financier, blasting media outlets for what he called a misleading narrative.

The documents, published Friday by Democrats on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, included Epstein’s schedules, phone messages, financial ledgers, and partially redacted flight logs. Among the entries was a December 6, 2014, note reading: “Elon Musk to island Dec. 6 (is this still happening?).” Another note from December 5 listed tentative breakfast plans with Bill Gates.

Following media reports linking him to Epstein, Musk took to his social media platform X to denounce the coverage. Responding to a Sky News headline that read “Elon Musk and Prince Andrew named in latest Epstein files release,” Musk wrote: “Shame on Sky News for this utterly misleading headline. Anyone pushing this false narrative deserves complete contempt. Epstein tried to get me to go to his island and I REFUSED, yet they name me even before Prince Andrew, who did visit.”

Musk also disputed a Forbes article claiming he had planned to travel to the island, calling the report “false.” He emphasized he had no association with Epstein and has repeatedly urged for the full release of records tied to the convicted sex offender.

Other names listed in the documents included billionaire Peter Thiel, Trump ally Steve Bannon, Microsoft founder Bill Gates, and Prince Andrew. One passenger manifest from Epstein’s private jet flights showed Prince Andrew traveling alongside Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein, and others on a trip to Florida.

The disclosures rekindled political controversy around the so-called “Epstein files.” Musk, who has previously suggested the records are being withheld, has openly pressed President Donald Trump’s administration to release all documents. In a now-deleted July post, Musk alleged the files were being covered up and questioned: “How can people be expected to have faith in Trump if he won’t release the Epstein files?”

The issue has dogged the administration since Trump campaigned on promises to make Epstein’s connections public. During his Senate confirmation, FBI Director Kash Patel pledged transparency, while Attorney General Pam Bondi later told Fox News she had Epstein’s client list “sitting on my desk right now.” A Wall Street Journal report in May claimed Bondi informed Trump that his own name appeared in the documents multiple times.

In July, however, the Justice Department said no such client list existed, sparking bipartisan backlash. Oversight Committee spokesperson Sara Guerrero said Democrats would continue pressing until all documents were released. “It should be clear to every American that Jeffrey Epstein was friends with some of the most powerful and wealthiest men in the world,” Guerrero said. “Every new document produced provides new information as we work to bring justice for the survivors and victims.”

Musk has maintained that his only connection to Epstein was rejecting an invitation to the island. He has accused major outlets of deliberately misrepresenting his name’s appearance in the records.

At least 3 dead and 8 wounded after boat pulls up and opens fire on marina restaurant known as tourist hotspot

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SOUTHPORT, N.C. (BN24) — A gunman opened fire on a crowd of diners at a popular waterfront restaurant in Southport, North Carolina, on Saturday night, killing at least three people and injuring eight others before fleeing by boat, authorities said.

The attack unfolded around 9:30 p.m. near the American Fish Company, a well-known tourist hotspot at the Southport Yacht Basin, according to city spokesperson ChyAnn Ketchum. Witnesses said the suspect, who was alone on board, pulled up to the marina in a white center console boat, fired into the crowd, and then sped away on the Intracoastal Waterway toward Oak Island.

By shortly after 10 p.m., the U.S. Coast Guard spotted a man matching the suspect’s description loading a vessel at a public ramp. He was detained and turned over to the Oak Island Police Department with assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, officials said. As of early Sunday, he was being questioned as a person of interest, though no charges had been announced.

Southport Police Chief Todd Coring told reporters at a 1 a.m. press conference that investigators were working two crime scenes, one at the marina and another on Oak Island. Coring said it was too soon to determine a motive but stressed that there was “no longer an active threat” to the community. Additional police patrols were deployed in the city as a precaution.

Authorities initially issued an urgent alert to residents, warning of an active shooter and urging people to shelter in place. The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it was assisting in the response alongside multiple agencies. “Please keep all those affected, as well as our first responders, in your thoughts and prayers,” the sheriff’s office posted on social media.

Southport, a coastal town of about 4,000 residents, is located 30 miles south of Wilmington on the Cape Fear River, where the Intracoastal Waterway meets the Atlantic Ocean. The American Fish Company, the restaurant at the center of the attack, is a popular marina hangout known for live music and a view of the waterfront. On Saturday evening, the local band Bacon Grease had been performing for a crowd of patrons when gunfire erupted.

Officials said the investigation remains active and urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement.

Source: dailymail

Vijay rally stampede: At least 36 people killed and dozens injured at campaign event for Indian actor-politician

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NEW DELHI (BN24) — At least 36 people, including women and children, were killed and dozens more injured when a stampede broke out at a campaign rally for actor-turned-politician Vijay in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, authorities said Saturday.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confirmed the death toll in a post on X, saying eight children and 16 women were among the victims. “I am deeply saddened and pained to learn that 36 people, including eight children and 16 women, have died so far,” Stalin wrote. He ordered a judicial inquiry led by a retired judge and announced compensation of one million rupees (about $19,500) for the families of those killed.

The tragedy occurred in the city of Karur, where thousands had gathered to hear Vijay speak. According to reports in the Hindustan Times, sections of the crowd surged toward the barricades near the stage in an attempt to catch a closer glimpse of the 51-year-old star, triggering the deadly crush.

Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s biggest actors for more than three decades and founder of a political party launched in 2024, was addressing the rally when chaos erupted. He stopped speaking as the commotion grew and later expressed his anguish on social media. “My heart is shattered,” Vijay wrote on X. “I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur.”

Health Minister Ma Subramanian said more than 40 people were injured, while lawmaker V. Senthilbalaji reported that about 58 were being treated at hospitals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered condolences. “The deaths are deeply saddening,” he posted on social media. “My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time.”

Deadly crowd incidents are not uncommon in India, where mass gatherings often lack adequate safety measures. Earlier this year, a stampede at the Kumbh Mela religious fair killed 30 people, while in July 2024, at least 121 people died during a Hindu religious festival in Uttar Pradesh. Just this June, 11 cricket fans were crushed during celebrations for Bengaluru’s first Indian Premier League title.

The Tamil Nadu tragedy has reignited concerns over crowd management at political events and public gatherings, as Vijay’s growing popularity continues to draw massive turnouts across the state.

Ghana suspends boxing activities after 2 deaths in 6 months

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Simeon Bateren
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ACCRA (BN24) — The government of Ghana has suspended all boxing activities indefinitely following the tragic death of professional boxer Ernest “Bahubali” Akushey, the second such fatality in the sport within six months. The suspension, announced on Friday by the National Sports Authority (NSA) in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, reflects heightened concerns over athlete safety.

Akushey, 32, died on September 23, 2025, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, 11 days after sustaining severe injuries during a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena. His death follows that of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who passed away in March 2025 after a fight in Accra. Both tragedies have sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for greater safety measures in boxing.

In a statement, the NSA confirmed that the suspension of all boxing activities would take effect immediately. The statement emphasized that the decision was made in the interest of prioritizing the health and safety of athletes. “The National Sports Authority, in consultation with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, has, with immediate effect, suspended all boxing activities in Ghana,” the statement read. “This decision follows the tragic passing of professional boxer Ernest ‘Bahubali’ Akushey after his most recent bout. It reflects the joint commitment of the NSA and the Sports Ministry to prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of athletes.”

The NSA further revealed that a five-year safety and development plan had already been prepared to address the current challenges in the sport. The plan, which will focus on improving medical protocols, technical standards, and regulatory frameworks, aims to elevate Ghana’s boxing industry to meet global standards. A nine-member Interim Management Committee has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of these reforms.

While the suspension is expected to disrupt the immediate activities of the sport, authorities have stressed its necessity in restoring public confidence and ensuring the long-term sustainability of boxing in Ghana. “While the suspension may present immediate challenges, it remains a necessary step to protect lives, preserve the integrity of the sport, and secure its future,” the NSA statement continued. “It is in line with the committee set up by the Hon. Minister following the death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju.”

Boxing has deep cultural roots in Ghana, particularly in the Bukom community, which has produced world champions such as Azumah Nelson. The recent fatalities, however, have cast a dark shadow over the sport, reigniting calls for stricter medical protocols, better oversight, and stronger safety measures across all levels of competition.

Authorities have pledged to take all necessary steps to ensure that boxing returns to Ghana under safer, more professional, and globally compliant standards. The reforms are expected to include enhanced medical screenings, improved equipment, and more stringent regulations on match conditions to safeguard the health of boxers.

As the suspension unfolds, the boxing community in Ghana and beyond will be watching closely to see how the government’s efforts to reform the sport take shape, hoping that such tragedies are never repeated.

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