Africa
Dozens killed in DR Congo
At least 40 people were killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo by an affiliate of the Islamic State. The incident occurred when worshippers gathered in a church at night. Among those who were killed included nine children. The attack was carried out by Allied Democratic Forces, a group that regularly attacks residents of all religions.
Trial begins for former president of Democratic Republic of Congo
Joseph Kabila, the former president of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is facing multiple charges, including murder and rape. He is accused of supporting M23 rebels who control a large portion of mineral-rich land. Kabila rejected the claims and said the courts were being used as an “instrument of oppression.”
Asia
Shooting leaves five dead at Bangkok shooting
Earlier this week, five people were shot and killed at a food market in Bangkok. Thailand police reported that the suspect had disputes with the market’s security guards before. The suspect took his own life after the attack. Thailand has seen several deadly shootings in recent years.
Cambodia/Thailand reach ceasefire agreement
After five days of fighting at their border, Thailand and Cambodia officials reached an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire.” The violence left at least 33 people dead and displaced tens of thousands of people. Violence ramped up in May when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a clash and escalated even further last week when a Thai soldier lost his leg in a landmine explosion.
Europe
France to recognize Palestinian state
French President Emmanuel Macron said the country will officially recognize a Palestinian state in September. The announcement is expected to be made at a session of the UN General Assembly in New York. France is the first G7 country to recognize a Palestinian state. Other G7 nations include the US, the UK, Italy, Germany, Canada, and Japan.
Deadly train derailment in Germany
At least three people were killed and several others were injured when a passenger train derailed in Germany. The train derailment was caused by an overflowing sewage shaft. Among those who were killed include the train driver, a rail employee, and a passenger. Rail traffic is currently suspended, and clean-up work began earlier this week.
Latin America
Venezuela claims migrants were tortured in El Salvador
Officials in Venezuela announced there will be an investigation into claims migrants sent to a prison in El Salvador from the United States suffered human rights abuses. At least 250 Venezuelans had been detained in El Salvador since March after being deported from the United States. Venezuelan officials said the migrants experienced torture inside the prison, including sexual abuse, beatings, and rotten prison food.
Skeleton discovered in Guatemala jungle
Remains found in a Guatemalan jungle are thought to belong to a birdwatcher who has been missing for nearly two and a half years. The bird watcher, Raymond Vincent Ashcroft, was part of a bird watching group visiting the ancient Maya city of Tikal. DNA tests are set to be conducted on the remains.
North America
Michigan Walmart stabbing leaves 11 people injured
Authorities in Michigan have arrested a 42-year-old suspect who is accused of stabbing 11 people at a Michigan Walmart. The suspect used a folding knife style weapon, police said. The incident appeared to be a random act, and people in the store assisted in apprehending the man.
Workers rescued from Canadian mine
Three workers in Canada were rescued from an underground mine. They were buried by a pile of debris for two days. The workers had access to food, water, and ventilation while they were stuck. Authorities are set to investigate what caused the mine to collapse.
