Asia

Kabul: The death toll from the devastating floods and torrential rains that recently struck several provinces in Afghanistan has risen to 179, in addition to 236 injured. In a statement, Afghanistan's disaster relief authorities said that 22 people had died in the past 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 179 since late March due to heavy rains and floods. Afghanistan is subject to extreme weather fluctuations, with monsoon rains often followed by waves of floods and landslides, further weakening the infrastructure and posing a direct threat to the lives of residents and their farms.

Middle East

Muscat: HM Sultan Haitham bin Tarik held a phone call on Sunday with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss the latest developments in the region and their implications for security and stability. During the call, the two sides reviewed developments following conclusion of talks held in Pakistan without reaching an agreement, underscoring the need to intensify international efforts to prevent further escalation. They also exchanged views on ways to contain tensions and address the root causes of the crisis in a manner that enhances stability and safeguards the interests of countries in the region. Both sides stressed the importance of continued international coordination and support for de-escalation efforts, as well as peaceful and diplomatic solutions based on the principles of international law.

Middle East

Occupied Jerusalem: Israeli occupation forces arrested two Palestinian women on Sunday from the courtyards of Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem. The Palestinian News and Information Agency (WAFA) said that the occupation forces stopped the two women while they were in the courtyards of the mosque, before arresting them and taking them to an unknown location. The courtyards of Al Aqsa Mosque are witnessing frequent incursions by the occupation forces and settlers, accompanied by restrictive measures against worshipers, attacks, and ongoing arrests. Earlier today, settlers stormed the Al Aqsa Mosque compound under the protection of the Israeli occupation police.