Tensions high as new violence spirals in Syria’s Suwayda despite ceasefire
Armed Druze groups have attacked Syrian security forces in Suwayda, killing at least one soldier and wounding others, Al Jazeera reported. Several villages were also shelled, violating a recently agreed ceasefire.
The Syrian government accused local rebel groups of inciting violence and targeting its forces. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said four people were killed, including three soldiers.
Fighting between Druze factions and Bedouin tribes erupted last month, displacing hundreds. A US-brokered truce had briefly calmed the unrest, but tensions have resurfaced. An investigation has been launched, according to Al Jazeera.
Floods and landslides kill 10 in northern Vietnam
Heavy rains from Thursday to Friday triggered floods and landslides in Vietnam’s Dien Bien and Son La provinces, leaving 10 dead and four injured.
In Dien Bien, all 10 victims were confirmed after two missing people were found. Nearly 300 houses were damaged or affected. In Son La, several homes were destroyed, and villages were cut off due to collapsed roads, Al Jazeera reported.
Rescue teams are in action, and the government has approved $9.5m in aid for recovery.
Jeanine Pirro confirmed as US attorney for Washington, DC
US Senate has confirmed former Fox News host and longtime prosecutor Jeanine Pirro as the top federal prosecutor in Washington, DC, in a 50–45 vote.
Pirro replaces Edward Martin Jr., whose nomination was withdrawn after backlash over his support for Capitol rioters. A former judge and district attorney in New York, Pirro brings decades of legal experience to the role. She previously co-hosted Fox’s The Five and hosted Justice with Judge Jeanine for 11 years, BBC reported.
Smoke from Canadian wildfires chokes US Midwest
Wildfire smoke from Canada has triggered air quality alerts across parts of the US Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, and nearby states.
Minneapolis reported some of the world’s worst air pollution, with the air quality reaching unhealthy levels. The smoke is expected to linger through the weekend, posing health risks for vulnerable groups, Reuters reported.
Canada is battling over 700 active wildfires, with several burning out of control. Authorities warn poor air quality may persist into Sunday.
