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- US pilot rescued in 21-aircraft operation after being shot down over Iran
- Finland joins France’s nuclear initiative to enhance European security
- Sudan’s aid network faces collapse without immediate funding, warns UN agency
- Canada’s 2026 census participation rate reaches 98.4 per cent, says StatCan
- Justice Department charges nearly 80 defendants in COVID loan fraud cases
- Meghan Markle and Prince Harry featured in SNL UK sketch after UK move
- Iran and Israel derail US peace deal amid MOSSAD naval attacks
- Mount Etna erupts, releasing ash two and a half miles into sky and prompting travel disruptions
USA News
The Justice Department has announced a crackdown on COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program fraud, resulting in charges against over 160 defendants and approximately $245 million in intended losses. The initiative, dubbed “Heartland fraud surge,” involved 44 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and targeted fabricated businesses and identity theft schemes.
Jack Burkman and Jacob Wohl pitched their services to Ammon Covino, seeking $300,000 to secure a pardon for him. Covino, a convicted felon, had previously submitted a pardon request, which was rejected by Donald Trump. Their meeting was secretly recorded as part of a CBS News investigation into pardon brokers.
Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed highlighted concerns over artificial intelligence during an interview, advocating for public oversight to ensure technological development prioritises the common good. He proposed establishing public trust organisations for AI companies, aiming to incorporate safety measures in response to recent industry tensions.
Iran denies negotiating with the US as Trump announces new talks to end the war on August 3.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche rescinded plans for the $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund, responding to pressure from Senators Thom Tillis and John Cornyn. The order clarifies that no funds were allocated, and the scope of a related tax audit immunity for Trump is limited to past claims only.
Ohio Representative Marcy Kaptur was hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries following a hit-skip car crash in Toledo on Sunday. Kaptur, 80, was a passenger en route to a church service. An investigation is ongoing as authorities seek the driver who fled the scene.
Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona expressed concerns over the Biden administration’s handling of the ongoing conflict, highlighting a lack of strategic goals amid escalating military actions. He emphasised the rising costs affecting Americans and questioned the proposed defence funding requests in light of mounting national debt.
President Trump announced that the United States would “cancel the attack” on Iran after indicating a potential peace deal. This follows consultations with Iran and Middle Eastern nations, aiming for the reopening of the Hormuz Strait and a halt to Iran’s nuclear threats. U.S. embassies in the region issued security alerts amid heightened tensions.
Russia launched ballistic missiles targeting Kyiv, resulting in at least nine fatalities and 28 injuries, prompting immediate response efforts in the city.
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