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Iranian President Proposes Ex-Nuclear Negotiator as Foreign Minister, A Woman Included in Cabinet List-AP

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Iranian President Proposes Ex-Nuclear Negotiator as Foreign Minister, A Woman Included in Cabinet List-AP

Tehran, Iran – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has put forward former nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi as the country’s new foreign minister, while also nominating a woman for the position of roads and housing minister. If approved, she would become Iran’s first female minister in more than a decade.

The list of proposed ministers was presented to lawmakers by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf on Sunday. The hardline-dominated chamber will have two weeks to review the candidates’ qualifications before casting a vote of confidence.

Araghchi, aged 61, is a seasoned diplomat who was a key member of the Iranian team that negotiated the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, a deal that saw Tehran curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

However, the deal was dismantled in 2018 when then-President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement and reimposed sanctions on Iran. Pezeshkian, during his presidential campaign, pledged to work towards reviving the nuclear deal.

In addition to Araghchi, Pezeshkian has nominated Gen. Aziz Nasirzadeh, an F-14 Tomcat pilot and former chief of the Iranian Air Force (2018-2021), as defense minister. This marks the first time a member of Iran’s air force has been tapped to head the defense ministry.

The president also proposed Farzaneh Sadegh as roads and housing minister. If confirmed, Sadegh would become only the second female minister in Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Despite the significance of her nomination, it remains uncertain whether her appointment will be approved, given the parliament’s conservative stance and its cultural and social restrictions on women based on Islamic Sharia law. Sadegh reportedly received a mixed reaction when her name was read by the speaker during Sunday’s session.

Should Sadegh be approved, she would be the first female minister since 2009, when former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad successfully appointed Marzieh Vahid Dastjerdi as health minister.

### **Keywords:** Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, Abbas Araghchi, nuclear deal, Farzaneh Sadegh, cabinet nominations, female minister, Iranian Parliament

apnews.com

Olympic Boxing Champion Imane Khelif Files Legal Complaint for Online Harassment

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Olympic Boxing Champion Imane Khelif Files Legal Complaint for Online Harassment

Paris, France – Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif has filed a legal complaint in France over online harassment, following a wave of criticism and false claims about her gender during the Paris Olympics, her lawyer announced on Sunday.

Khelif, who will carry Algeria’s flag in the closing ceremony, secured gold on Friday in the women’s welterweight division, solidifying her status as a new hero in her native Algeria and drawing global attention to women’s boxing.

The complaint, lodged with a special unit in the Paris prosecutor’s office dedicated to combating online hate speech, accuses the perpetrators of “aggravated cyber-harassment” targeting Khelif.

 Her lawyer, Nabil Boudi, described the online attacks as a “misogynistic, racist, and sexist campaign” against the champion boxer.

The decision on whether to open a formal investigation now rests with the prosecutors. As is standard in French legal proceedings, the complaint does not name specific individuals but allows investigators to identify those responsible.

Khelif found herself at the center of a global controversy over gender identity and sports regulation following her first fight in Paris.

The incident occurred when Italian opponent Angela Carini withdrew just seconds into the match, citing pain from opening punches.

This sparked false rumors online that Khelif was transgender or a man, which quickly spread.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) publicly defended Khelif, condemning those who spread the misinformation. Khelif later expressed that the misconceptions about her “harms human dignity.”

Jessica Burrows, an IOC official responsible for safeguarding and mental health, also filed a complaint with French authorities, stating that she received threats and harassment online after addressing the issue at a press conference in Paris to defend Khelif.

The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed receipt of Burrows’ complaint on August 4 and indicated that it would be examined alongside Khelif’s case.

Source: apnews.com

A’ja Wilson, US Women Defeat France to Win Eighth Straight Olympic Basketball Gold Medal

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A’ja Wilson, US Women Defeat France to Win Eighth Straight Olympic Basketball Gold Medal

Paris, France – A’ja Wilson led the U.S. women’s basketball team to a historic victory, scoring 21 points as the Americans edged out France 67-66 to win their eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games on Sunday.

Throughout an incredible streak of 61 straight wins, no team had managed to come as close as France did in this nail-biting finale.

Only two of those victories had been by single digits, and this narrow win against France underscored the fierce competition.

This eighth straight gold breaks a tie with the U.S. men’s program, which won seven consecutive golds from 1936 to 1968.

The women’s triumph came just 24 hours after the U.S. men’s team also beat France in their title game, marking the first time in Olympic history that both U.S. basketball teams faced the same opponent in the gold medal games.

Unlike the men’s game, which had a more comfortable margin, this final came down to the wire. France had one last shot, a three-pointer just before the buzzer, which fell short and sealed the victory for the U.S.

With 3.9 seconds left on the clock, the Americans led 67-64 after Kahleah Copper sank two crucial free throws.

France’s Marine Johannes rushed the ball up the court and passed to Gabby Williams, who launched a shot from just inside the three-point line.

The ball banked in, but it was over the outstretched arms of Breanna Stewart, making the score 67-66 as the final buzzer sounded.

Initially, there was confusion as officials reviewed the play, leading to brief celebrations by both teams.

The officials eventually confirmed it was a two-point shot, not the three-pointer France had hoped for, securing the gold for the U.S. team.

Williams, who finished the game with 19 points, had earlier hit a three-pointer just seconds before Copper’s free throws, putting France within striking distance.

However, it wasn’t enough to overcome the U.S. women’s determination to maintain their Olympic dominance.

Anti-Racism Protests Sweep UK in Response to Far-Right Riots

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Anti-Racism Protests Sweep UK in Response to Far-Right Riots

Thousands of protesters rallied in cities across the United Kingdom on Saturday, June 15, 2024, in a series of anti-racism demonstrations organized by Stand Up to Racism.

The events, held in up to 22 locations including London, Manchester, and Birmingham, were a direct response to recent far-right riots and violence that had gripped the nation.

The unrest earlier this month was triggered by misinformation spread on social media about a fatal knife attack on children in Southport. False claims circulated that the attacker was an illegal immigrant and a Muslim.

In London, an estimated 2,500 people marched from Reform UK’s office to Downing Street, accusing British politician Nigel Farage of “inciting fascist rioters” and expressing support for refugees. Protesters chanted “refugees are welcome here” during the demonstration.

Gary McFarlane, a spokesperson for Stand Up to Racism, stated, “The majority of people in Britain are for a multicultural society and are against the violence of the racist and the fascist.”

King Charles III commended those who participated in the anti-racism rallies, highlighting the importance of unity in the face of recent unrest.

These events underscore the broader challenges facing many European countries regarding migration issues and the rise of far-right sentiment. The UK’s situation reflects a growing tension between anti-immigrant rhetoric and pro-diversity movements across the continent.

As the nation grapples with these complex issues, the widespread anti-racism protests signal a significant public response to far-right activities and misinformation campaigns.

DR Congo’s Government Releases 527 Prisoners Citing Overcrowding

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DR Congo’s Government Releases 527 Prisoners Citing Overcrowding

Kinshasa, DR Congo – The Minister of Justice of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Constant Mutamba, announced on Saturday, August 10, 2024, the release of nearly 527 prisoners from the central prison of Makala in Kinshasa.

In addition to the release, Mutamba delivered 2,000 mattresses to the inmates out of a total of 7,000 ordered, in an effort to improve their living conditions within the overcrowded facility.

“A state governed by the rule of law means that everyone must be subject to the law. Your place is in your home where you will spend the night tonight. You must return to your homes.

In this regard, I inform you that next Saturday, we will continue with the release of some prisoners who have been unjustly detained,” stated Constant Mutamba.

He reminded the public of his commitment to improving detention conditions for prisoners, in line with instructions from the Head of State.

“This is what is being done. I also guaranteed that no prisoner would sleep on the floor anymore. Based on the instructions given to the director of the central prison of Makala, we have already provided the prison with the first batch of mattresses.

The beds are currently being manufactured, and starting next week, no prisoner will have to sleep on the floor. Meanwhile, the prison’s health center is undergoing rehabilitation, and several pavilions are also being renovated. Our ambition is first to reduce overcrowding in the prison and then to rehabilitate it thoroughly,” he added.

The Minister also announced the construction of a new prison in Maluku, on a site he had recently visited.

In July, the Congolese government stated that at least 7,000 inmates were to be granted conditional release from the Makala Central Prison in a bid to ease overcrowding at the facility.

Located in Kinshasa, Makala is the country’s largest jail, originally built for 1,500 inmates in 1957, but now holding more than 15,000 people, including children and women.

Conditions at the prison have long been notorious, with inmates crammed into cells, eating poorly, and suffering from water and respiratory diseases.

Source: afrinanews.com

NPP Minister Vows to Win 2024 Elections “By Any Means” in Ghana

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NPP Minister Vows to Win 2024 Elections “By Any Means” in Ghana

Bryan Acheampong, Ghana’s Minister of Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, has declared that the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) will win the 2024 elections “by any means necessary.” The statement was made during a campaign rally in Nsawam, Eastern Region.

Acheampong, who recently faced controversy over his bid to acquire a stake in SSNIT-owned hotels, asserted that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has no chance of winning the December 7 polls. He emphasized the NPP’s self-perception as an “election-winning machine.”

The minister outlined the party’s strategy, which includes leveraging support from religious and traditional leaders within their ranks. “We are a political party that has pastors, imams, and traditionalists, so whatever means we would take to win the elections, we would do so,” Acheampong stated.

This declaration comes amidst growing political tension in Ghana as both major parties prepare for the upcoming elections. Acheampong’s comments have raised concerns about the potential use of religious influence in political campaigns.

The minister’s statement, “Burn the sea if you don’t understand, we’ll win and continue with our good works,” has sparked debate about the nature of political rhetoric in Ghana’s democratic process.

As the election date approaches, political observers are closely watching how this aggressive stance might impact the campaign landscape and voter perceptions in Ghana.

Source: myjoyonline

Nigerian Army Arrests Suspected Terrorists in Taraba, Recovers Weapons

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Nigerian Army Arrests Suspected Terrorists in Taraba, Recovers Weapons

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade have apprehended seven suspected terrorists and recovered multiple weapons in separate operations across Taraba State. The operations, conducted between August 6 and 9, 2024, targeted various locations in the state.

On August 7, troops engaged suspected bandits attacking a Fulani settlement in Katlong Village, Karim Lamido Local Government Area. One suspect, Yusuf Musa, was arrested with an AK-47 rifle and 20 rounds of 7.62MM special ammunition. Additionally, 118 cows were recovered and returned to their owners.

A day earlier, based on intelligence, troops arrested four suspected bandits en route to Mashingi Village market. The suspects, identified as Yusuf Hassan, Mohammed Mamman, Haruna Iliya, and Hammadu Shaibu, were found with a motorcycle, four mobile phones, and 57,000 Naira.

On August 9, acting on a tip-off, troops arrested two suspects, Umar Zubairu and Issah Abdullahi, in Magami, Jalingo Local Government Area. The operation yielded 436 machetes, four filling machines, a mobile phone, and various fabrication tools.

Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, Commander of 6 Brigade, commended the troops for their swift action. He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

The arrested suspects will be handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution.

This series of successful operations underscores the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in Taraba State and across the country.

Sifan Hassan Wins Olympic Marathon Gold, Secures Third Paris Medal

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Sifan Hassan Wins Olympic Marathon Gold, Secures Third Paris Medal

Dutch athlete Sifan Hassan, 31, claimed gold in the women’s marathon at the Paris Olympics 2024, securing her third medal of the Games. Hassan crossed the finish line in an Olympic record time of two hours, 22 minutes, and 55 seconds.

The victory came in a sprint finish, with Hassan accelerating in the final 200 meters to edge out Ethiopian runner Tigst Assefa by three seconds. Kenya’s Hellen Obiri took bronze, finishing 12 seconds behind Assefa.

This gold medal performance follows Hassan’s bronze medals in the 10,000m two days prior and the 5,000m six days earlier, showcasing her exceptional endurance and versatility.

The marathon, which began at 08:00 local time, saw temperatures reach 24°C. Many athletes used ice packs during the race to combat the heat, while others carried water bottles for extended periods.

In the British contingent, Clara Evans finished 46th with a time of 2:33:01, and Rose Harvey placed 78th, clocking 2:51:03. Calli Hauger-Thackery did not complete the race.

Hassan’s triumph in Paris adds to her impressive Olympic record, which includes two golds (5,000m and 10,000m) and a bronze (1500m) from the Tokyo 2020 Games.

The Paris Olympics marathon results mark another chapter in Hassan’s extraordinary athletic career, cementing her status as one of the world’s premier distance runners.

First Deaf Miss South Africa Crowned After Divisive Competition

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First Deaf Miss South Africa Crowned After Divisive Competition

Johannesburg, South Africa – Mila Le Roux has made history as the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa, following a highly divisive competition that saw one finalist withdraw after being trolled over her Nigerian heritage.

In her acceptance speech, Le Roux expressed hope that her victory would inspire those who feel excluded from society to achieve their “wildest dreams, just like I am.” She also voiced her desire to support those who are “financially excluded or differently abled.”

The controversy surrounding the competition intensified last week when 23-year-old law student Chidimma Adesihma withdrew amid allegations that her mother may have stolen the identity of a South African woman.

Adesihma, born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican origin, became the center of a social media storm that lasted several weeks. Her eligibility to represent South Africa was questioned by many, including a prominent cabinet minister.

Adesihma stated that she had been a victim of “black-on-black hate,” a term used to describe a particular form of xenophobia in South Africa, known as “afrophobia,” which disproportionately affects those from other African countries.

Le Roux, 28, who was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one, relies on a cochlear implant to perceive sound. Her journey to the Miss South Africa crown included two years of speech therapy before she was able to speak her first words.

In her acceptance speech, the model and marketing manager said, “I am a proudly South African deaf woman and I know what it feels like to be excluded. I know now that I was put on this planet to break boundaries and I did it tonight.”

Egypt to Bid for 2036 and 2040 Olympics, Says African Olympic Committees Chief

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Egypt to Bid for 2036 and 2040 Olympics, Says African Olympic Committees Chief

Cairo, Egypt – Egypt is set to bid for the 2036 and 2040 Summer Olympics, leveraging the country’s improving infrastructure and sports facilities to support a successful bid, announced the head of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) on Sunday.

Africa has never hosted an Olympic Games, and Cairo’s last attempt, an unsuccessful bid for the 2008 Olympics, did not break that streak. However, Egypt has since invested billions of dollars in upgrading its infrastructure, building new facilities, and modernizing sports complexes across the nation, with the goal of making a successful Olympic bid.

One of the country’s most ambitious projects is the Egypt International Olympic City, located in the new administrative capital currently under construction just east of Cairo.

Once completed, the complex is expected to feature a 93,000-capacity national stadium along with 21 other sports facilities, positioning Egypt as a strong contender for future Olympic Games.

Mustapha Berraf, the head of ANOCA, confirmed Egypt’s intention to bid for both the 2036 and 2040 Olympics during a press conference held on the day of the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics.

Berraf, who is also an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, expressed confidence in Egypt’s ability to host the Games, stating, “Egypt has the chance of organizing the Games. It will most likely organize the Games in 2040.”

However, Berraf noted that the country still needs to address certain infrastructure issues, such as roads and airports, to fully realize its potential as an Olympic host. “We have to look at infrastructure issues such as roads, airports. Egypt has great infrastructure potential,” he said.

While Egypt is focused on its future bids, the 2028 Summer Games have already been awarded to Los Angeles, with Brisbane, Australia, set to host in 2032.

Several other countries, including India, Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, have also expressed interest in bidding for the 2036 Olympics. IOC President Thomas Bach has acknowledged the growing competition, saying that the number of interested parties is steadily rising.

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