[QUICKREADS]
Solar panels against an alien landscape, ramps and rods pointing at the Martian horizon -- China's first probe on the Red Planet has beamed back its first "selfies" after its history-making landing last week. The Zhurong rover was carried into the Martian atmosphere in a lander on Saturday, in the first ever successful probe landing by any country on its first Mars mission.
The UN court ordered Israel to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza by opening more land crossings for supplies. Israel's military campaign in response to attacks by Hamas was deemed self defense, not genocide. South Africa sought these measures due to starvation in Gaza. Israel must report back on implementing the orders. The court warned of famine in Gaza, with deaths from malnutrition already reported.
The U.S. Transportation Department awarded $60 million in emergency relief funding to Maryland for the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. Governor Wes Moore sought the funding for mobilization, operations, and debris removal to aid in a rapid recovery. A formal announcement of the funding is expected Thursday evening.
Russian authorities have detained six journalists, including Antonina Favorskaya, who covered Alexei Navalny's trials. Favorskaya was accused of being part of an extremist organization for posting on Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation's social media. Other journalists were also detained, with one beaten by police. Navalny's spokeswoman criticized the targeting of journalists, saying Favorskaya was just doing her job.
Tampa Bay All-Star shortstop Wander Franco placed on administrative leave until June 1 amid investigation into alleged relationship with a minor. Franco, in the Dominican Republic, is paid during leave. MLB likely to wait for Dominican investigation conclusion before deciding on discipline. Jose Caballero takes over at shortstop for Rays. Franco, not formally accused, could face prison time if found guilty.
The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to ensure basic food supplies promptly reach the Palestinian population in Gaza to prevent famine. The court noted worsening conditions and stated that famine is now a reality. South Africa raised the issue as part of a case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.
Former billionaire Sam Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison for stealing $8 billion from FTX cryptocurrency exchange customers. The judge rejected his claims of innocence, citing his lack of remorse. Bankman-Fried's downfall marks a significant moment in U.S. authorities' crackdown on cryptocurrency malfeasance. Despite his vow to appeal, the judge emphasized the severity of his crimes and the impact on victims.
British PM Rishi Sunak opens up about the challenges of balancing fatherhood with leading the country in a podcast with William Hague. He reflects on his Indian heritage and the journey of his immigrant family. Despite inheriting a tough situation as PM, he remains optimistic about better times ahead, believing his hard work will make a positive impact on people's lives.
The Palestinian Authority forms a new Cabinet under President Mahmoud Abbas to address international pressure for reform. The incoming ministers are not well-known figures, led by Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, an independent economist. The PA, controlling parts of the West Bank, aims to rebuild Gaza with a technocratic government. The U.S. supports a revitalized PA for postwar Gaza, but Israel maintains security control.
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif urges Afghanistan to increase border controls to tackle terrorism threats after recent attacks. Despite efforts, Kabul is not addressing the issue, leading to concerns over sanctuaries for terrorists. Asif emphasizes the need for a regional approach and stricter enforcement of international laws at the Pak-Afghan border. Pakistan has implemented new visa requirements for Afghan citizens to enhance security measures.
French President Macron's warm embrace of Brazilian counterpart Lula during a visit to the Amazon has sparked social media frenzy, with users joking about a possible marriage. The trip symbolizes a shift from Macron's strained relationship with former President Bolsonaro and aims to strengthen ties between France and Brazil through a billion-dollar green investment plan for the Amazon.
New York City drivers are close to facing a new congestion pricing fee to enter Manhattan's business district. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority approved the plan, aiming to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and modernize transit infrastructure. Despite support from MTA, transit advocates, and environmental groups, the program faces legal challenges and criticism for potentially burdening residents and businesses. The toll could begin in mid-June pending final approval.
Jaishankar's visit to Malaysia reaffirmed commitment to enhance bilateral ties under the Enhanced Strategic Partnership. Meetings with Malaysian leadership, including Prime Minister Anwar, focused on various areas of cooperation such as trade, defense, and education. Discussions also highlighted the importance of the Indian diaspora in strengthening India-Malaysia relations.
Thailand's lower house of Parliament approved a marriage equality bill, making the country the first in Southeast Asia to legalize equal rights for marriage partners of any gender. The bill passed overwhelmingly, with 400 members voting in favor. The legislation now goes to the Senate and then to the king for royal endorsement. The bill aims to provide full legal, financial, and medical rights for LGBTQ couples.
Russia bombed Kharkiv, Ukraine, killing one civilian and injuring 16. The attack caused significant damage, hitting residential buildings and an emergency surgery institute. Ukrainian forces are facing shortages and increased pressure from Russian troops. President Zelenskyy replaced a top security official amid the escalating conflict.
Greece's conservative government faces a censure motion in parliament for allegedly manipulating an investigation into a train tragedy. Opposition parties claim the government edited key sound recordings to shift blame onto human error. Despite government denials, public opinion doubts progress in the investigation. The motion is expected to fail as the government holds a majority. The disaster, which claimed 57 lives, remains a contentious issue with calls for accountability and transparency.