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Israeli Strikes Kill 27 Palestinians in Gaza as Polio Vaccination Campaign Continues

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Israeli Strikes Kill 27 Palestinians in Gaza as Polio Vaccination Campaign Continues

Israeli military strikes across the Gaza Strip killed at least 27 Palestinians on Friday, according to local medical sources, while health officials resumed a critical polio vaccination campaign for tens of thousands of children in the embattled enclave.

In Nuseirat refugee camp, an Israeli airstrike claimed the lives of two women and two children. Eight others were killed in two separate airstrikes in Gaza City, with additional casualties reported from subsequent strikes across the territory.

Israeli forces continued to engage in battles with Hamas-led militants in several areas, including the Zeitoun suburb of Gaza City, eastern neighborhoods of Khan Younis, and Rafah near the Egyptian border. Residents in Rafah reported that Israeli forces demolished multiple houses.

As the conflict enters its eleventh month, diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages have yet to yield results. The United States is preparing to present a new ceasefire proposal, but significant gaps remain between the warring parties.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Thursday that while nearly 90% of a Gaza ceasefire deal has been agreed upon, critical issues remain unresolved. One major point of contention is the Philadelphi corridor along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt, which Israel insists on controlling while Hamas demands its withdrawal.

Amid the ongoing violence, health officials have resumed a crucial polio vaccination campaign. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) reported that at least 160,000 children received vaccine doses in southern Gaza on Thursday, marking the second stage of the campaign.

Juliette Touma, UNRWA’s Director of Communications, praised the progress but emphasized that temporary pauses in fighting are not a substitute for a full ceasefire. The vaccination effort aims to reach approximately 640,000 children under 10 years old across the Gaza Strip.

The campaign was launched after the discovery of a polio case in a one-year-old child, the first known instance in Gaza in 25 years. The reemergence of the disease highlights the collapse of Gaza’s health system due to the prolonged conflict.

The war, triggered by Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and took about 250 hostages, has resulted in over 40,800 Palestinian deaths, according to the local health ministry. The United Nations reports that about 1.9 million people — 90% of Gaza’s population — have been internally displaced, with many forced to relocate multiple times.

REUTERS

Pakistani Man Charged in Alleged Plot to Attack New York City Jewish Center

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Pakistani Man Charged in Alleged Plot to Attack New York City Jewish Center

A 20-year-old Pakistani citizen living in Canada has been arrested and charged with planning an attack on a Jewish center in New York City, the U.S. Department of Justice announced on Friday. The alleged plot, seemingly timed to coincide with the first anniversary of Hamas’ attack on Israel, highlights ongoing concerns about targeted violence against Jewish communities.

Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, also known as Shahzeb Jadoon, was arrested Wednesday in Ormstown, Quebec, by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that Khan’s alleged intention was to kill “as many Jewish people as possible” in an attack planned for around October 7, 2024.

According to the indictment, Khan attempted to travel from Canada to the United States with the intent to use automatic and semi-automatic weapons in the attack. He allegedly communicated his plans to two undercover law enforcement officers, detailing intentions to create “a real offline cell” of Islamic State supporters.

The indictment further alleges that Khan instructed the undercover officers to obtain AR-style assault rifles, ammunition, and other materials necessary for the attack. He reportedly identified specific locations in Brooklyn for the planned assault, targeting New York City due to its having “the largest Jewish population in America.”

If convicted, Khan faces up to 20 years in prison. The Department of Justice has not confirmed whether Khan has obtained legal counsel. He is scheduled to appear in court in Montreal on September 13.

Attorney General Garland expressed gratitude to Canadian law enforcement for their cooperation, stating, “Jewish communities — like all communities in this country — should not have to fear that they will be targeted by a hate-fueled terrorist attack.”

This case emerges against a backdrop of increased tensions and reported rises in both anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents across North America since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas on Israel. That attack resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and triggered an ongoing Israeli military response that has reportedly led to over 40,000 Palestinian casualties.

The timing of the alleged plot, seemingly aimed to coincide with the first anniversary of the Hamas attack, underscores the persistent threat of ideologically motivated violence and the challenges faced by law enforcement in preventing such acts.

Angola Snatch Shock Late 1-0 Victory Over Ghana in 2025 AFCON Qualifier

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Angola Snatch Shock Late 1-0 Victory Over Ghana in 2025 AFCON Qualifier

Angola stunned four-time African champions Ghana with a last-gasp 1-0 victory in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Thursday. The match, held at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, ended dramatically when substitute Felicio Milson scored in the 93rd minute, handing Ghana their first home defeat at this venue since 2000.

The 24-year-old Milson, who plays his club football in Serbia, capitalized on Ghana’s failure to clear a low cross, pushing the ball past goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi from close range. The goal silenced the home crowd and sparked angry reactions, with supporters hurling plastic bottles onto the pitch after the final whistle.

Ghana, looking to redeem themselves after disappointing group-stage exits in the 2022 and 2024 AFCON tournaments, fielded a strong lineup featuring six Premier League players. However, they notably omitted veteran midfielder Andre Ayew, who at 34 and currently without a club, was overlooked by coach Otto Addo.

Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, the Black Stars failed to break down a resilient Angolan defense. This inability to convert their superiority into goals ultimately cost them dearly.

The result puts Angola in a strong position in Group F, which they now lead alongside Sudan, who defeated Niger 1-0 on Wednesday. For Ghana, who last lifted the AFCON trophy in 1982, this defeat represents a significant setback in their qualification campaign.

In other AFCON qualifying action, Burundi secured a surprise 3-2 away victory against Malawi in Group L, with Mokono Eldhino scoring the winning goal in the 87th minute. This result immediately puts pressure on Malawi in a group that includes 2022 champions Senegal and Burkina Faso.

Tunisia, under the guidance of 74-year-old coach Faouzi Benzarti in his fifth stint with the national team, narrowly defeated Madagascar 1-0 in Group A. Ferjani Sassi’s 98th-minute goal secured the win in Rades.

The Central African Republic, one of ten countries yet to qualify for an AFCON finals, impressed with a 3-1 victory over Lesotho in El Jadida, Morocco. French second-tier forward Louis Mafouta netted twice in the Group B fixture, which was moved to Morocco due to inadequate facilities in Bangui.

As the qualification campaign continues, ten more matches are scheduled for Friday, featuring title-holders Ivory Coast and former champions including the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, Zambia, and Senegal.

This round of qualifiers has already produced several unexpected results, highlighting the competitive nature of African football and setting the stage for an intriguing road to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Kevin De Bruyne’s Brace Gives Belgium 3-1 Victory Over Israel in UEFA Nations League Opener

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Kevin De Bruyne’s Brace Gives Belgium 3-1 Victory Over Israel in UEFA Nations League Opener

Belgium launched their 2024/25 UEFA Nations League campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Israel at an empty Nagyerdei Stadion in Hungary. Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne starred with a brace, guiding the Red Devils to their seventh win in eight encounters against Israel.

The match, played behind closed doors at a neutral venue, saw League A newcomers Israel start brightly, with Anan Khalaili testing Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels in the opening seconds.

However, De Bruyne soon stamped his authority on the game, breaking the deadlock in the 21st minute. The Belgian captain expertly finished a cross from Manchester City teammate Jeremy Doku, leaving Israeli goalkeeper Yoav Gerafi with no chance.

Israel managed to equalize against the run of play in the 36th minute. A De Bruyne turnover led to Khalaili’s header taking a deflection off Timothy Castagne, with the goal officially recorded as an own goal by the Fulham defender.

Belgium regained control early in the second half when Lois Openda’s clever flick set up Youri Tielemans for a spectacular strike past Gerafi. De Bruyne then secured his brace from the penalty spot after Openda was fouled in the area by Raz Shlomo.

In a display of team spirit, De Bruyne, despite being on a hat-trick, allowed Openda to take a second penalty awarded to Belgium. However, Gerafi saved Openda’s attempt, denying the RB Leipzig forward a place on the scoresheet.

Gerafi further frustrated De Bruyne with a fine save late in the game, preventing the City midfielder from claiming a hat-trick. Nonetheless, Belgium’s comfortable victory marks a positive start to their Nations League campaign under coach Domenico Tedesco, as they aim to improve on their fourth-place finish in the 2020/21 edition.

For Israel, the result extends their winless streak against Belgium to nearly 46 years, highlighting the challenge they face in their first season in League A of the Nations League.

The match, played in unusual circumstances without spectators, showcased Belgium’s depth and quality, with players like Doku and Openda impressing alongside the ever-influential De Bruyne.

Inspired Italy Come Back from Early Blow to Stun France in Paris, 3-1

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Inspired Italy Come Back from Early Blow to Stun France in Paris, 3-1

Italy staged a remarkable comeback to defeat France 3-1 in their UEFA Nations League opener at the Parc des Princes, overcoming a record-breaking early goal by the hosts.

Bradley Barcola etched his name in French football history by scoring just 12 seconds into the match, the fastest goal ever netted by Les Bleus. The young forward capitalized on a defensive lapse by Giovanni Di Lorenzo, intercepting the ball and slotting home his first international goal.

Despite this setback, Italy quickly regained composure and nearly equalized minutes later when Davide Frattesi’s close-range header struck the crossbar following Andrea Cambiaso’s clever play at the far post.

The Azzurri’s persistence paid off on the half-hour mark with a spectacular equalizer. Federico Dimarco and Sandro Tonali combined brilliantly on the edge of the area, culminating in Dimarco’s thunderous volley that soared past goalkeeper Mike Maignan into the top corner.

Luciano Spalletti’s side maintained their momentum into the second half, taking the lead shortly after the restart. Mateo Retegui provided the assist for Frattesi, who made amends for his earlier miss by sliding the ball home at the far post.

Italy sealed their victory with a third goal, courtesy of substitutes Destiny Udogie and Giacomo Raspadori. Udogie’s precise pass found Raspadori, who calmly slotted home his first international goal on foreign soil in almost two years.

This result continues France’s recent struggles in the Nations League, with just one win in their last seven matches in the competition — a stark contrast to their triumph in the tournament’s 2021 edition.

For Italy, the victory marks their first-ever win in a Nations League opener, providing a positive start to their campaign and a significant boost for Spalletti’s tenure as national team coach. The match highlighted Italy’s resilience and tactical adaptability, while raising questions about France’s form in recent international competitions. As both teams look ahead to future fixtures, this result could prove pivotal.

British Prime Minister Starmer to Meet with Biden at the White House

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British Prime Minister Starmer to Meet with Biden at the White House

President Joe Biden is set to welcome British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to the White House next Friday for high-level discussions, the White House announced. This meeting, marking Starmer’s second visit since his election earlier this summer, underscores the close alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the Oval Office talks will cover a range of pressing international issues. Key topics on the agenda include continued Western support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian invasion, ongoing efforts to secure a hostage release and cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, addressing threats to commercial shipping in the Red Sea posed by the Iranian-backed Houthi group, and shared concerns regarding the Indo-Pacific region.

This meeting comes at a crucial time as Biden seeks to bolster international engagement in the final months of his current term. The talks also take place against the backdrop of heightened global attention on the U.S. presidential race between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican former President Donald Trump.

Starmer’s visit follows his previous trip to Washington two months ago, where he held one-on-one discussions with Biden during the NATO Summit. This rapid succession of meetings highlights the importance both nations place on maintaining strong transatlantic ties.

The upcoming talks are expected to reaffirm the “special relationship” between the United States and the United Kingdom, a partnership that has been pivotal in addressing global challenges. As both leaders face domestic political pressures, this meeting provides an opportunity to demonstrate unity on the international stage.

The discussion on Ukraine is particularly timely, as Western allies continue to grapple with sustaining long-term support for Kyiv. The ongoing conflict in Gaza and its regional implications are also likely to feature prominently in the talks.

Woman Kills Her Three Children and Herself in Vehicle, Officials Report

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Woman Kills Her Three Children and Herself in Vehicle, Officials Report

A tragic murder-suicide involving a mother and her three young children has been confirmed by Weber County officials in Utah. Lt. Terance Lavely announced on Friday that Maribel Ibarra, 32, shot her children before taking her own life in a vehicle parked in West Haven.

The victims, aged 4, 2, and 1, were found in the cargo area of Ibarra’s vehicle. Officials have not released the names of the children. The firearm used in the incident was recovered from the scene.

Investigators reached their conclusion based on a comprehensive analysis of video evidence, physical evidence at the scene, witness statements, and interviews with family members. However, Lt. Lavely indicated that the investigation is ongoing to determine the motive behind the tragic event, though he cautioned that a definitive answer might not be found.

In a written statement provided to reporters, Ibarra’s family expressed their “deep sorrow” for the loss of those they described as “the light of our lives.” The family’s statement revealed their shock at the incident, stating, “As a family, we unfortunately knew nothing about her mental health. We always saw her as a loving mother, which makes this so shocking for us.”

The family’s statement continued, “This pain is something we wish no one would ever have to go through,” highlighting the devastating impact of the tragedy on the extended family and community.

A neighbor, Darren King, told local news station KSL-TV that Ibarra had recently moved back in with her father, who had lost his wife of 50 years this summer. King emphasized the close relationship between Ibarra’s father and his grandchildren, stating, “His grandkids were his life.”

This incident has sent shockwaves through the West Haven community and raised concerns about mental health awareness and support for families. Local authorities are expected to provide resources and counseling services to those affected by this tragedy.

As the investigation continues, officials urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in understanding the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking event.

Prince Hisahito Becomes First Male Japanese Royal to Reach Adulthood in Four Decades

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Prince Hisahito Becomes First Male Japanese Royal to Reach Adulthood in Four Decades

Prince Hisahito, nephew of Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, marked a significant milestone for the imperial family on Friday as he turned 18, becoming the first male royal to reach adulthood in nearly 40 years. This event highlights both the traditions and challenges facing Japan’s 1,500-year-old monarchy.

Prince Hisahito

Hisahito’s coming of age is particularly noteworthy as he is currently the only male heir of his generation in the imperial family. His father, Crown Prince Akishino, was the last male royal to reach adulthood in 1985.

The prince’s birthday underscores the succession issues confronting the world’s oldest continuing hereditary monarchy. Japan’s imperial family now consists of just 17 adult members, with only four men. This demographic challenge mirrors Japan’s broader societal issues of an aging and shrinking population.

Under the Imperial House Law of 1947, which largely preserves pre-war conservative family values, only males can ascend to the Chrysanthemum Throne. This law also requires female royals who marry commoners to forfeit their imperial status, further reducing the family’s numbers.

Prince Hisahito as child

The succession issue has sparked debate in Japan. Princess Aiko, daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, is popular among the public as a potential future empress. However, the current law prohibits her succession despite her direct lineage.

The succession line places Emperor Naruhito first, followed by his brother Crown Prince Akishino, with Prince Hisahito third in line. This situation has prompted discussions about potential changes to the succession laws.

In his birthday statement, Prince Hisahito expressed a desire to “cherish my remaining time in high school.” The young prince has shown a keen interest in science, particularly entomology, and has co-authored an academic paper on dragonflies found on the grounds of his Tokyo residence.

Prince Hisahito as a baby

The Japanese government has been grappling with ways to ensure stable imperial succession. A panel of experts recommended in January 2022 that female royals be allowed to retain their status after marriage to commoners. They also suggested adopting male descendants from former branches of the imperial family to maintain the male lineage.

Critics argue that these measures would have limited impact as long as male-only succession is maintained, pointing out that the system was historically sustained through the use of concubines in pre-modern times.

As Japan’s royal family faces these succession challenges, Prince Hisahito’s 18th birthday serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between preserving tradition and adapting to modern realities in one of the world’s most enduring monarchies.

apnews.com

USMNT Set for Fan Appreciation Match Against Canada in Kansas City

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USMNT Set for Fan Appreciation Match Against Canada in Kansas City

The U.S. Men’s National Team is preparing to host Canada in a Fan Appreciation Match on Saturday, September 7, at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas. The friendly encounter, kicking off at 4 p.m. ET, marks the first non-competitive meeting between these North American rivals since 2016.

Broadcast coverage of the match will be extensive, with TBS, Telemundo, Universo, Max, Peacock, and Fútbol de Primera Radio all carrying the game. Fans can also follow the action through U.S. Soccer’s official social media channels and mobile app.

As part of the Fan Appreciation theme, the event will feature interactive fan activations, opportunities to win prizes, and food and drink specials, including the “Dollar Delights” promotion. These efforts aim to enhance the fan experience and showcase the USMNT’s gratitude for supporter loyalty.

U.S. head coach Gregg Berhalter has assembled a 24-man roster with an average age of 24 years and 180 days, reflecting a blend of youth and experience. The squad averages 20 caps per player and represents clubs from 11 different countries, highlighting the global reach of American soccer talent.

Christian Pulisic of AC Milan leads the team with 71 caps, while 14 players aged 23 or younger have been included, signaling a focus on the future. Notable young talents such as Yunus Musah (AC Milan) and Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven) are expected to play key roles. The roster also features two uncapped players: defender Marlon Fossey from Standard Liege and goalkeeper Diego Kochen from FC Barcelona II.

A late change to the roster saw Chivas midfielder Cade Cowell, 20, added to replace Gio Reyna, who departed due to a left groin strain. Cowell brings additional attacking depth, having scored three goals and provided three assists in six matches for Chivas in the Apertura campaign.

Historically, the U.S. holds a 17-11-12 all-time record against Canada. Their last friendly encounter in 2016 resulted in a 1-0 U.S. victory in Carson, California. More recently, the teams clashed twice in 2023 Concacaf competitions, with the USMNT securing victories in both the Nations League final and Gold Cup semifinal.

Children’s Mercy Park has been a stronghold for the USMNT, where they boast an unbeaten 8-0-2 record. Over 13 years, the team has scored 20 goals while conceding only two at this venue, making it one of their most successful home grounds.

For Canada, this match represents their first outing since finishing fourth at the 2023 Copa América. Under new manager Jesse Marsch, appointed in May 2024, Canada will look to build on their recent international performances. Marsch, formerly of Leeds United and RB Leipzig, brings high-level club experience to the national team setup.

Key players to watch for the U.S. include Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and Folarin Balogun, who have all started the European club season in good form. Canada’s attack will likely feature Jonathan David of Lille and veteran Cyle Larin of Mallorca, who have netted 28 and 29 international goals respectively.

This friendly serves as crucial preparation for both sides ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures. It provides an opportunity for coaches to assess their squads in a high-profile setting and for players to stake their claims for regular starting positions.

The match also underscores the growing rivalry between these Concacaf nations, both of whom are looking to assert themselves as regional powerhouses in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which they will co-host along with Mexico.

France and Italy Set to Clash in UEFA Nations League Opener

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France and Italy Set to Clash in UEFA Nations League Opener

European football giants France and Italy are poised to face off in their UEFA Nations League opener on Friday night at Parc des Princes, as both teams look to rebound from disappointing Euro 2024 campaigns.

France, who exited the Euros in the semi-finals against eventual champions Spain, will be eager to reassert their dominance under long-serving coach Didier Deschamps. The 2018 World Cup winners and 2021 Nations League champions finished a surprising third in their group during the last Nations League campaign, a performance they can ill afford to repeat.

Italy, meanwhile, enters the match still smarting from their lackluster title defense at Euro 2024, where they were eliminated in the round of 16 by Switzerland. Coach Luciano Spalletti has spoken of bringing “clarity and consistency” to the squad, signaling potential changes in personnel and tactics.

Team News:

France’s squad sees some notable changes, with Adrien Rabiot and Benjamin Pavard dropped. Rising star Michael Olise receives his first call-up after an impressive showing at the Olympics. Manu Kone could make his senior debut, while Loic Bade replaces the withdrawn Wesley Fofana. Lucas Digne and Matteo Guendouzi have been added as late replacements for Ferland Mendy and midfield cover, respectively.

Italy faces the absence of striker Gianluca Scamacca due to an ACL injury and midfielder Nicolo Barella following sinus surgery. Eight players from the Euro 2024 squad have been omitted, including Gianluca Mancini and Jorginho. Marco Brescianini and Caleb Okoli receive their first call-ups, while Destiny Udogie, Moise Kean, and Sandro Tonali return to the fold.

Tactical Considerations:

Deschamps is likely to maintain his preferred 4-3-3 formation, potentially featuring an attacking trident of Ousmane Dembele, Marcus Thuram, and captain Kylian Mbappe.

Spalletti has indicated a preference for a back three system, possibly deploying a 3-5-2 with Giacomo Raspadori and in-form Mateo Retegui leading the line.

Possible Starting Lineups:

France (4-3-3): Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Konate, T. Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Zaire-Emery; Dembele, Thuram, Mbappe

Italy (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni; Cambiaso, Ricci, Tonali, Frattesi, Dimarco; Raspadori, Retegui

Historical Context:

This match marks the first competitive encounter between these footballing powerhouses in 16 years, rekindling memories of their iconic 2006 World Cup final. France has won the last three friendly meetings, but competitive fixtures often bring out the best in the Azzurri.

The Nations League Context:

Both teams are keenly aware of the stakes in this new Nations League campaign. The bottom-placed team in each group faces automatic relegation, while third-placed teams must navigate a playoff to avoid dropping to League B. The top two finishers will qualify for the newly introduced quarter-final round.

With Belgium and Israel completing Group 2, both France and Italy will be eager to start their campaigns on a positive note, setting the tone for what promises to be a highly competitive group stage.

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