Hamas has announced a “positive” response to a newly proposed ceasefire in Gaza, indicating that further discussions are necessary to finalize its implementation. While the specific details of the proposal, purportedly from U.S. President Donald Trump for a 60-day ceasefire, were not explicitly confirmed by Hamas, the group has been seeking assurances that this temporary truce could lead to an end to the ongoing conflict, now approaching 21 months. President Trump has been advocating for a resolution, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit the White House next week for discussions related to this matter.
As these diplomatic efforts unfold, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed 15 Palestinians early on Friday, while another 20 individuals died in shootings while attempting to secure aid. According to the U.N. human rights office, 613 Palestinians have been recorded as killed over the past month while attempting to reach aid distribution points, primarily connected to an American organization backed by Israel, as well as U.N. efforts.
President Trump had stated earlier in the week that Israel was in agreement with the terms for a 60-day ceasefire, during which the U.S. would engage with all parties to facilitate an end to the war. He urged Hamas to accept the deal promptly before conditions deteriorate further.
In a related global context, Kyiv faced an unprecedented barrage of missiles and drones from Russia, marking the largest aerial assault since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war over three years ago. The attack, which resulted in one fatality and injuries to at least 26 individuals, including a child, came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported a "very important and productive" call with President Trump. The two leaders discussed fortifying Ukrainian air defenses, potential joint weapons production, and collaborative U.S.-led efforts to conclude the conflict with Russia.
Back in the United States, President Trump signed a substantial package of tax breaks and spending cuts into law on July 4, celebrating this legislative victory alongside Fourth of July festivities. Positioned before Fourth of July picnickers, Trump noted that Congress' support for the bill could stabilize his second-term legacy. The bill, which has been characterized as historic and divisive, represents a significant priority for Trump and aligns with his campaign promises.
Amid this political backdrop, a federal judge briefly halted the deportation of eight immigrants to South Sudan due to ongoing legal challenges, but ultimately authorized their return after the Supreme Court’s ruling determined that the legal path was clear for the Trump administration to proceed.
In Texas, severe flooding devastated the Hill Country, resulting in at least 24 deaths and over 20 children missing from a girls’ summer camp. The rapid downpour led to flash flooding of the Guadalupe River, prompting extensive rescue operations. Authorities confirmed that rescues were underway, with hundreds of individuals airlifted to safety amid the perilous conditions.
Meanwhile, in the realm of historical discoveries, Jennifer Cromack, a volunteer at an archive in Groton, Massachusetts, uncovered a significant anti-slavery document dated March 2, 1847. This handwritten resolution, signed by 116 New England ministers, provides crucial insight into the abolitionist movement during the emerging debate over slavery in the northeastern United States.
As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, President Trump began the yearlong festivities in Iowa, reflecting on recent legislative successes and projecting confidence in the nation’s future. His public appearance was buoyed by the enthusiasm of supporters, captured amid patriotic displays of music and aerial displays by military aircraft.
Concurrently, famed competitive eater Joey Chestnut reclaimed his title at the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest, consuming 70 1/2 hot dogs in 10 minutes, marking his 17th win at the event. The women's champion, Miki Sudo, also secured her victory but acknowledged falling short of her previous record.
The July Fourth celebrations were marked by contrasting sentiments across the country. While many Americans participated in traditional festivities, others expressed discontent, stemming from political divisions and recent immigration policies. Protests occurred alongside celebrations, reflecting the multifaceted nature of national identity and pride during the holiday.
Additionally, famed Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez Jr. was arrested by ICE for overstaying his visa and providing false information on his green card application. His arrest raises concerns within the local community, particularly amid increased immigration enforcement measures across Southern California.
