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Mpox Declared Public Health Emergency in Africa Amid Rapid Spread Across Multiple Countries

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ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Mpox, the highly infectious disease formerly known as monkeypox, has been officially declared a public health emergency across Africa by the continent’s leading health authority, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Health experts have expressed growing concern over the rapid spread of a new, more virulent strain of the virus.

Since the start of the year, more than 13,700 cases and 450 deaths have been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo alone. The virus, which causes painful lesions across the body, has now spread to several other African nations, including Burundi, the Central African Republic (CAR), Kenya, and Rwanda.

The declaration of a public health emergency is aimed at coordinating government responses across the continent and facilitating the swift movement of medical supplies and aid to the hardest-hit regions.

Africa CDC head Jean Kaseya emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that the outbreak could spiral out of control if immediate action is not taken. “This declaration is not merely a formality. It is a clarion call to action. It is a recognition that we can no longer afford to be reactive. We must be proactive and aggressive in our efforts to contain and eliminate this threat,” Kaseya stated.

The Africa CDC will be closely monitoring the outbreak to assess the ongoing risk of the virus spreading further. Health officials outside of Africa have also been alerted, as the situation poses a potential global health threat.

On July 29, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control assessed the risk of Mpox spreading in Europe as “very low,” but cautioned against complacency.

Mpox primarily spreads from animals to humans and can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected individual. Transmission methods include skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets, and touching contaminated objects.

Symptoms of Mpox include fever, muscle aches, and the characteristic lesions that can appear across the body. While most cases have been reported in Africa, milder strains of the virus have been detected in Europe, Australia, the U.S., and other regions.

Health officials are particularly concerned about the emergence of this new strain, which appears to be more severe than the previously known versions of the virus. The situation remains fluid, with health authorities around the world on high alert to prevent further spread.

bbc.com

Russia Accuses Ukraine Allies of Silence on Kursk Incursion at UN Meeting

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Russia criticized Western allies of Ukraine at the United Nations on Tuesday for not condemning Kyiv’s incursion into the Russian region of Kursk. During an informal UN Security Council gathering convened by Russia, Deputy UN Ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy accused Ukrainian forces of killing civilians and questioned the goals of the cross-border assault.

Ukraine’s allies on the Security Council, including the United States, France, and Britain, maintained their support for Kyiv and did not address the Kursk offensive. Slovenian diplomat Klemen Ponikvar stated, “We will not recognize the aggressor as the victim.”

The surprise attack by thousands of Ukrainian soldiers began a week ago. Russian President Vladimir Putin said the offensive aimed to improve Kyiv’s negotiating position and slow the advance of Russian forces along the front.

Ukraine’s Western backers said they had no prior warning of the offensive that has claimed a portion of Russian territory. They have been cautious to avoid escalating the conflict into a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO.

Polyanskiy told the council, “We haven’t heard a word of condemnation of these actions from the Western sponsors of the Kyiv regime who continue to cover up the abhorrent crimes of their puppet.” He questioned how targeting civilians could serve the goal of disrupting attacks on Ukrainian territory, asserting there were no military objects or infrastructure in the area.

The Russian and Ukrainian militaries have barred journalists from the battlefield, making it impossible to independently verify claims made by either side.

US Approves $20 Billion Weapons Package for Israel, Including Advanced Fighter Jets

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WASHINGTON, D.C., USA – The United States has approved a substantial $20 billion weapons package for Israel, including advanced F-15 fighter jets and other military equipment, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Tuesday. The Pentagon confirmed the approval in a statement, highlighting the strategic significance of the deal amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The package includes F-15 jets and associated equipment valued at approximately $19 billion, alongside a significant supply of tank cartridges worth around $774 million and army vehicles valued at $583 million. According to the Pentagon, the tank rounds are expected to be ready for almost immediate delivery, while the production and delivery of the F-15 fighter jets could take several years.

The U.S. has been a staunch ally of Israel, providing military support as the nation continues to face ongoing conflicts in the region. The approval of this weapons package comes as Israel prosecutes a war in the Gaza Strip, which was triggered by the militant group Hamas’ October 7 attack in southern Israel.

While reinforcing Israel’s military capabilities, the U.S. has also been working diplomatically to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East. However, the situation remains tense, especially following the recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, both of which have heightened the threat of retaliation against Israel.

The arms deal underscores the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security, even as it navigates the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, balancing military support with efforts to de-escalate violence in the region.

Manchester United Offloads Wan-Bissaka to West Ham, Eyes Mazraoui and De Ligt as Reinforcements

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MANCHESTER, England – Manchester United has confirmed the sale of right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka to Premier League rival West Ham United, as the club prepares for the imminent arrival of two new defenders. The transfer, completed on Tuesday, sees Wan-Bissaka move to London for a reported fee of £15 million ($19 million), ending his five-year tenure at Old Trafford.

Wan-Bissaka, known for his exceptional one-on-one defending, will now compete with Vladimir Coufal for the starting right-back position at West Ham. The 25-year-old returns to London, where he began his professional career with Crystal Palace.

Manchester United, meanwhile, has been busy in the transfer market, with reports indicating that they are close to securing replacements for Wan-Bissaka. Moroccan full-back Noussair Mazraoui is reportedly on the verge of joining United from Bayern Munich, alongside Dutch center-back Matthijs de Ligt.

Footage surfaced on Monday showing De Ligt arriving in Manchester, fueling speculation that the transfer is nearly complete. De Ligt, who has been one of Europe’s most sought-after defenders, is expected to bolster United’s backline significantly.

In addition to Mazraoui and De Ligt, United has already strengthened its defense by signing 18-year-old center-back Leny Yoro from Lille for €62 million ($68 million) earlier in the transfer window.

The departure of Wan-Bissaka marks a significant change in United’s defensive setup, with the club focusing on bringing in top-tier talent to solidify their backline for the upcoming season.

Kylian Mbappé Set for Real Madrid Debut in UEFA Super Cup Against Atalanta

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Real Madrid’s high-profile signing Kylian Mbappé is poised to make his debut for the club in the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the French striker’s readiness during a press conference at Warsaw’s National Stadium on Tuesday.

Ancelotti stated, “Mbappé could play tomorrow,” noting that the 25-year-old arrived in good shape following Euro 2024 and has adapted well to the team after a week of practice. Mbappé’s arrival follows a prolonged transfer saga with his former club, Paris Saint-Germain.

The French international joins an already star-studded forward line at Madrid, including Vinícius Júnior, new signing Endrick, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Arda Guler. Ancelotti jokingly referred to this abundance of talent as a “huge problem” that “ruined my holidays.”

Addressing concerns about team dynamics, Ancelotti emphasized the healthy atmosphere in the locker room, stating, “There are no princes or kings here.”

Atalanta, the Europa League champions, enter the match as underdogs. However, their coach Gian Piero Gasperini welcomes the challenge, saying, “I hope the best play, because only with the strongest can you try to gain the maximum respect.”

The UEFA Super Cup, an annual match between the winners of the Champions League and Europa League, will be played at the National Stadium in Warsaw, with both teams aiming to claim the first European trophy of the season.

Cole Palmer Signs Long-Term Extension with Chelsea, Securing His Future Until 2033

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LONDON, England – England forward Cole Palmer has solidified his future at Chelsea by signing a two-year contract extension, which will keep him at the Premier League club until 2033, Chelsea announced on Tuesday.

Palmer, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City in September last year, quickly established himself as one of the standout players in the Premier League. He finished the season with an impressive 22 goals, trailing only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. Palmer’s exceptional performance also earned him a place in England’s squad for the European Championship.

The 22-year-old made a significant impact for England, scoring as a substitute in the final, though the team narrowly lost 2-1 to Spain. With this new contract, Palmer is set to remain a key player for Chelsea over the next nine years, aligning with the club’s strategy of securing young talents on long-term deals.

“I achieved a lot in my first season here,” Palmer said in a statement. “And hopefully I can continue to experience great things at this club, both on a personal level and in terms of bringing success and trophies to Chelsea.”

Palmer’s outstanding season has also earned him a place on the six-man shortlist for the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Player of the Year award. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced on August 20.

As Palmer looks forward to his future with Chelsea, both the club and its fans will be eagerly anticipating more stellar performances from the young forward, who has quickly become one of the brightest stars in English football.

Source: apnews.com

Botswana President Leads Thousands of Supporters to Celebrate Olympic Champion Letsile Tebogo with Stadium Spectacular

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GABORONE, Botswana – Tens of thousands of enthusiastic supporters filled a stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, on Tuesday to celebrate the triumphant return of sprinter Letsile Tebogo, who made history as the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medalist. The event, marked by joyous celebrations and national pride, followed Tebogo’s stunning victory in the men’s 200m at the Paris Olympics.

After his impromptu show, President Mokgweetsi Masisi took a seat next to Tebogo and the rest of the athletes

Rapturous crowds, waving Botswana’s blue-and-black national flag, greeted Tebogo and his fellow athletes as they paraded through the capital on a rooftop bus. The athletes’ arrival at the National Stadium was the climax of a day that had been declared a national holiday by the President to honor Tebogo’s achievement.

At just 21 years old, Tebogo became the first African to win the men’s 200m, blazing past American sprinters Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles in Paris on August 8. He set an African record with a time of 19.46 seconds, and also secured a silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay, bringing Botswana’s total Olympic medal count to four.

Botswana’s president danced on the airport tarmac before greeting the athletes

The stadium celebration was the culmination of a day filled with excitement. Earlier, hundreds of fans had gathered at Gaborone’s airport to welcome the athletes home. Among those in attendance were traditional dancers adorned in animal skins and beads, who performed to mark the athletes’ return.

Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi added to the festive atmosphere by showcasing some of his own dance moves, much to the delight of the crowd. An aide held an umbrella to shield him from the sun as he joined in the celebrations.

Letsile Tebogo donned sunglasses as celebrations kicked off at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport

Upon their arrival at the airport, Tebogo and his teammates were transported to the National Stadium, where an even larger crowd awaited them. The atmosphere was electric as fans cheered, danced, and sang in honor of Botswana’s new sports hero.

During the celebration, Tebogo took a moment to dedicate his gold medal to his late mother, Seratwa, who passed away after a brief illness. In a poignant gesture, he held up his spikes and showed the camera the date of her death, which he had inscribed on them as a tribute. “She’s my motivation, carrying me through every stride that I take inside the field,” Tebogo said, adding that knowing she was watching over him had driven him to victory. “She’s watching up there, and she’s really, really happy,” he added.

The celebration in Gaborone not only marked a historic achievement for Tebogo but also served as a moment of immense pride for Botswana. The event highlighted the unity and joy of a nation coming together to honor one of its own, and it set the stage for a future filled with promise for Botswana’s athletics.

Credit: bbc.com

Saudi Arabia Eyes $1.1 Billion Deal for Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr., Reports Say

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MADRID, Spain – Real Madrid is reportedly weighing a substantial offer as Saudi Arabia aims to lure Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr. with a deal exceeding $1.1 billion, sources informed Reuters on Monday.

The 24-year-old star has attracted interest from officials representing Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), who are exploring the possibility of bringing him to the Saudi Pro League (SPL). The proposed deal includes a lucrative five-year contract valued at approximately 200 million euros per season, plus additional bonuses.

Moreover, the offer is said to include a potential 10-year contract for Vinicius to serve as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia. This role would involve promoting the upcoming 2034 World Cup, which is set to be hosted in the kingdom. However, these terms and conditions are still under negotiation, and no final agreement has been reached.

While no official decision has been made, Vinicius has not ruled out the move, and discussions between PIF representatives and Real Madrid are ongoing.

Vinicius Jr. has been a pivotal player for Real Madrid since joining the club in 2018, scoring 24 goals across all competitions during the 2023-24 season. He has also played a key role in the club’s recent successes, including two Champions League finals.

The offer from Saudi Arabia comes as part of a broader strategy by the kingdom to attract top football talent to its rapidly growing league, as it seeks to position itself as a major force in the global sports industry.

Houthi Rebels Seize U.N. Human Rights Office in Sanaa Amid Widening Crackdown on International Agencies

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SANAA, Yemen – Houthi rebels in Yemen have stormed the United Nations’ Human Rights Office in the capital, Sanaa, forcibly seizing documents, furniture, and vehicles. The incident, which occurred on August 3, marks the latest escalation in a broader crackdown by the Houthis on individuals and organizations affiliated with the U.N., aid agencies, and foreign embassies, according to a senior U.N. official on Tuesday.

The rebels, who are backed by Iran, have intensified their operations across the region, targeting shipping routes in the Red Sea corridor in response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. The takeover of the U.N. Human Rights Office in Sanaa is part of this broader campaign, which has seen increasing hostility towards international entities operating in Yemen.

According to a statement by U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Türk, the rebels forcibly entered the office and demanded that U.N. Yemeni workers hand over all belongings, including sensitive documents, furniture, and vehicles. “Ansar Allah forces must leave the premises and return all assets and belongings immediately,” Türk said, using the official name of the Houthi movement.

Efforts to reach a spokesperson for the Houthis for comment were unsuccessful, as phone calls and messages went unanswered.

The U.N. Human Rights Office has since announced the suspension of its operations in Sanaa and other Houthi-controlled areas, a decision that follows a June crackdown on international organizations by the rebels. Despite this suspension, the office continues its work in regions of Yemen controlled by the internationally recognized government.

The June crackdown saw the Houthis detain more than 60 people working with the U.N. and other NGOs, according to reports from the U.N. Human Rights Office. Among those detained were six workers from the Human Rights Office, who had previously been detained by the Houthis in November 2021 and again in August 2023.

In the latest development, the Houthis have claimed to have arrested members of what they described as an “American-Israeli spy network,” issuing videotaped confessions purportedly made by 10 Yemeni U.N. workers who alleged they were recruited by the U.S. Embassy in Sanaa. The U.N. Human Rights Office has condemned these actions, stating that one of its detained staff members was coerced into a confession under duress.

The ongoing crackdown by the Houthis represents a significant threat to international operations in Yemen, further complicating efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in the region. The international community continues to watch the situation closely, with calls for immediate action to protect U.N. staff and restore order in the conflict-ridden country.

ICC Actively Monitoring Venezuela as Maduro Cracks Down on Opposition After Disputed Election

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THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Prosecutors from the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced on Monday that they are “actively monitoring” the situation in Venezuela, where security forces loyal to President Nicolás Maduro have launched a sweeping crackdown on opposition forces following the country’s disputed presidential election.

According to reports, over 2,000 people have been detained by Maduro’s forces for participating in protests against the president or for questioning his claim that he won a third term in the July 28 election by more than a two-to-one margin. Despite Maduro’s assertions, there is significant evidence suggesting that he lost the vote.

In a written statement, the office of ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan confirmed that it is closely observing the unfolding events in Venezuela. “The office is actively monitoring the present events and has received multiple reports of instances of violence and other allegations following the presidential election of 28 July in Venezuela,” the statement read.

Khan’s office has also engaged directly with the Venezuelan government to stress the importance of upholding the rule of law during this critical period.

“We have engaged with the Government of Venezuela at the highest level to underline the importance of ensuring that the rule of law is adhered to in the present moment and emphasize that all persons must be protected from violations that may constitute Rome Statute crimes,” the statement continued.

The Rome Statute, which is the founding treaty of the ICC, outlines the crimes under the court’s jurisdiction, including crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide.

Maduro has responded to the growing dissent by urging Venezuelans to denounce those who question the election results, using a government-run app originally designed to report power outages. In addition, Maduro announced plans to refurbish two large, gang-dominated prisons to accommodate an expected increase in jailed opposition members.

“There will be no mercy,” Maduro declared on state television, reinforcing his intent to suppress any challenges to his presidency.

The ICC’s investigation into Venezuela, which began in late 2021, remains ongoing, with no arrest warrants issued thus far. Khan’s investigation was initiated after a group of Latin American countries—Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru—referred the situation in Venezuela to the ICC, citing concerns over human rights violations.

As the situation in Venezuela continues to escalate, the international community is watching closely, with the ICC poised to take further action if evidence of crimes within its jurisdiction emerges.

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