Rebuilding Aleppo: Syria’s war-torn economic capital enjoys gradual rebirth as traders return and the iconic citadel reopens to the public.

The United States ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, condemned Israeli settlers as “terrorists” during a siege of three Palestinian homes in Qusra, West Bank. The ongoing situation has cut off basic supplies to the families, with US officials indicating involvement in efforts to resolve the siege.

NATO jets have intercepted and shot down a drone in Latvian airspace, which was redirected by Russian electromagnetic warfare during a Ukrainian strike on Ust-Luga.

Mali announced the release of 82 soldiers captured by Tuareg and al-Qaeda-linked groups in the north. The Malian army confirmed they were freed into government care following a process that began after their April capture. Some soldiers had been held since 2023, with around 118 still imprisoned.

A fire on the children’s tour boat Imparator in Turkey forced over 100 passengers to evacuate, with 11 requiring medical attention for smoke inhalation.

Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – North have advanced into Kurmuk, a key town bordering Ethiopia, amid military withdrawal. The RSF claims heavy losses inflicted on army troops, while local administrations report ongoing intensive attacks involving drones and artillery.