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Carla Maxwell, Keeper of the José Limón Flame, Dies at 79

Her stewardship of the troupe that bears his name became a model for other dance companies, like Martha Graham’s, after their founders died.

© Andrea Mohin/The New York Times

Carla Maxwell in the 2006 revival of José Limón’s “Dances for Isadora.” He created the tempestuous solo “Maenad” for her. She took over the Limón dance company in 1977, five years after Mr. Limón’s death.

Bessent Says He Expects Trade Deals by This Week’s Deadline

But the Treasury secretary also said that some countries working toward agreements with the United States could have until Aug. 1.

© Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times

“There’s a lot of foot dragging on the other side, and so I would expect to see several big announcements over the next couple of days,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Sunday.

Gaza ceasefire talks begin in Qatar as Netanyahu heads to Washington

Getty Images Benjamin Netanyahu gives a statement during a visit to the site of the Weizmann Institute of Science, which was hit by an Iranian missile barrage. He wears a light blue shirt and navy blazer. Getty Images

Delegations from Israel and Hamas have begun an indirect round of ceasefire talks in Qatar, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to Washington to meet Donald Trump.

Netanyahu said he thinks his meeting with the US president on Monday should help progress efforts to reach a deal for the release of more hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza.

He said he had given his negotiators clear instructions to achieve a ceasefire agreement under conditions Israel has accepted.

Hamas has said it has responded to the latest ceasefire proposal in a positive spirit, but it seems clear there are still gaps between the two sides that need to be bridged if any deal is to be agreed.

For now, Hamas still seems to be holding out for essentially the same conditions it has previously insisted on - including a guarantee of an end to all hostilities at the end of any truce and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Netanyahu's government has rejected this before.

The Israeli position may also not have shifted to any major degree. As he was leaving Israel for the US, Netanyahu said he was still committed to what he described as three missions: "The release and return of all the hostages, the living and the fallen; the destruction of Hamas's capabilities - to kick it out of there, and to ensure that Gaza will no longer constitute a threat to Israel."

Qatari and Egyptian mediators will have their work cut out during the indirect talks between Israel and Hamas in trying to overcome these sticking points, which have have derailed other initiatives since the previous ceasefire ended in March.

Israel has since resumed its offensive against Hamas with great intensity, as well as imposing an eleven-week blockade on aid entering Gaza, which was partially lifted several weeks ago.

The Israeli government says these measures have been aimed at further weakening Hamas and forcing it to negotiate and free the hostages.

Just in the past 24 hours, the Israeli military says it struck 130 Hamas targets and killed a number of militants.

But the cost in civilian lives in Gaza continues to grow as well. Hospital officials in Gaza said more than 30 people were killed on Sunday.

The question now is not only whether the talks in Qatar can achieve a compromise acceptable to both sides - but also whether Trump can persuade Netanyahu that the war must come to an end at their meeting on Monday.

Many in Israel already believe that is a price worth paying to save the remaining hostages.

Once again, they came out on to the streets on Saturday evening, calling on Netanyahu to reach a deal so the hostages can finally be freed.

But there are hardline voices in Netanyahu's cabinet, including the national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir and the finance minister Bezalel Smotrich, who have once again expressed their fierce opposition to ending the war in Gaza before Hamas has been completely eliminated.

Once again, there is the appearance of real momentum towards a ceasefire deal, but uncertainty over whether either the Israeli government or Hamas is ready to reach an agreement that might fall short of the key conditions they have so far set.

And once again, Palestinians in Gaza and the families of Israeli hostages still held there are fervently hoping this will not be another false dawn.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to Hamas's 7 October 2023 attacks, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.

At least 57,338 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.

IDF says it killed Hamas commander in cafe strike that killed dozens of civilians

Reuters A general view of a site following an Israeli airstrike on Al-Baqa cafeteria. Gaping windows and ripped, red awning can be seen in the foreground. Reuters
Al-Baqa cafeteria, a popular destination in western Gaza City was bombed on Monday

Israeli forces say they killed the commander of Hamas's naval force in northern Gaza in a strike on a seaside cafe in which dozens of civilians were killed.

After the attack on the popular al-Baqa cafe in Gaza City on Monday, family members in Gaza and abroad told the BBC of their shock at the scale of civilian casualties.

In a statement on Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the strike killed Ramzi Ramadan Abd Ali Saleh, along with Hisham Ayman Atiya Mansour, deputy head of Hamas's mortar unit, and Nissim Muhammad Suleiman Abu Sabha.

Saleh was a "significant source of knowledge" within Hamas and had been involved in planning and advancing "maritime terrorist attacks", the IDF said.

Sources in Gaza had previously told the BBC a senior Hamas commander was rumoured to have been at the cafe at the time of the strike.

The IDF also said it had taken steps "to mitigate the risk of harming civilians" but did not provide any further details as to why so many people were killed in the incident.

The BBC has reviewed 29 names of people reported killed in the strike on the cafe, at least nine of whom were women, while several were children and teenagers.

Those killed included artists, students, social activists, a female boxer, a footballer and cafe staff.

Staff at Shifa Hospital, which received bodies from the attack, said its toll as of Thursday had reached 40 dead, including people who had succumbed to their injuries, and unidentified bodies.

An official at the hospital said some of the bodies had been "blown to pieces", and that 72 injured patients were brought there - many having sustained severe burns and significant injuries that required surgery.

The al-Baqa Cafeteria was well-known across the Gaza Strip, and considered by many to be among the territory's most scenic and vibrant meeting spots.

It had remained popular even during the war, especially due to its unusually stable internet connection.

The IDF did not directly respond to multiple BBC questions about whether it considered the number of civilian casualties to be proportionate.

In its statement on Sunday it said it would "continue to operate against the Hamas terrorist organization in order to remove any threat posed to Israeli civilians", before saying the "incident" was "under review".

Meanwhile, indirect talks between Israel and Hamas began in Qatar on Sunday to discuss the latest proposal for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to the 7 October 2023 attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.

At least 57,338 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.

Gaza ceasefire talks begin in Qatar as Netanyahu heads to Washington

Getty Images Benjamin Netanyahu gives a statement during a visit to the site of the Weizmann Institute of Science, which was hit by an Iranian missile barrage. He wears a light blue shirt and navy blazer. Getty Images

Delegations from Israel and Hamas have begun an indirect round of ceasefire talks in Qatar, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to Washington to meet Donald Trump.

Netanyahu said he thinks his meeting with the US president on Monday should help progress efforts to reach a deal for the release of more hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza.

He said he had given his negotiators clear instructions to achieve a ceasefire agreement under conditions Israel has accepted.

Hamas has said it has responded to the latest ceasefire proposal in a positive spirit, but it seems clear there are still gaps between the two sides that need to be bridged if any deal is to be agreed.

For now, Hamas still seems to be holding out for essentially the same conditions it has previously insisted on - including a guarantee of an end to all hostilities at the end of any truce and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.

Netanyahu's government has rejected this before.

The Israeli position may also not have shifted to any major degree. As he was leaving Israel for the US, Netanyahu said he was still committed to what he described as three missions: "The release and return of all the hostages, the living and the fallen; the destruction of Hamas's capabilities - to kick it out of there, and to ensure that Gaza will no longer constitute a threat to Israel."

Qatari and Egyptian mediators will have their work cut out during the indirect talks between Israel and Hamas in trying to overcome these sticking points, which have have derailed other initiatives since the previous ceasefire ended in March.

Israel has since resumed its offensive against Hamas with great intensity, as well as imposing an eleven-week blockade on aid entering Gaza, which was partially lifted several weeks ago.

The Israeli government says these measures have been aimed at further weakening Hamas and forcing it to negotiate and free the hostages.

Just in the past 24 hours, the Israeli military says it struck 130 Hamas targets and killed a number of militants.

But the cost in civilian lives in Gaza continues to grow as well. Hospital officials in Gaza said more than 30 people were killed on Sunday.

The question now is not only whether the talks in Qatar can achieve a compromise acceptable to both sides - but also whether Trump can persuade Netanyahu that the war must come to an end at their meeting on Monday.

Many in Israel already believe that is a price worth paying to save the remaining hostages.

Once again, they came out on to the streets on Saturday evening, calling on Netanyahu to reach a deal so the hostages can finally be freed.

But there are hardline voices in Netanyahu's cabinet, including the national security minister Itamar Ben Gvir and the finance minister Bezalel Smotrich, who have once again expressed their fierce opposition to ending the war in Gaza before Hamas has been completely eliminated.

Once again, there is the appearance of real momentum towards a ceasefire deal, but uncertainty over whether either the Israeli government or Hamas is ready to reach an agreement that might fall short of the key conditions they have so far set.

And once again, Palestinians in Gaza and the families of Israeli hostages still held there are fervently hoping this will not be another false dawn.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to Hamas's 7 October 2023 attacks, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.

At least 57,338 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.

'Human error' - Wimbledon sorry over missed line calls

'Human error' - Wimbledon sorry over missed line calls

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Kartal wins controversial game after electronic line-calling system fails

  • Published

Wimbledon organisers have apologised after the electronic line-calling system on Centre Court was turned off in error and missed three calls in one game.

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova said a game was 'stolen' from her after there was no 'out' call when a Sonay Kartal backhand went long in the first set of their fourth-round match.

The Russian stopped after seeing the ball go long, and chair umpire Nico Helwerth halted play.

The All England Club initially said the system was "deactivated on the point in question" because of "operator error".

A spokesperson said later on Sunday that, after further investigation, it was found that the technology was "deactivated in error on part of the server's side of the court for one game".

During that time, three calls on the affected side of the court were not picked up.

Helwerth - who did not know the system had been turned off - called two of them himself before the incident highlighted by Pavlyuchenkova.

"We have apologised to the players involved," a spokesperson for the All England Club said.

"We continue to have full confidence in the accuracy of the ball tracking technology.

"In this instance, there was a human error and as a consequence we have fully reviewed our processes and made the appropriate changes."

Had the ball been called out, Pavlyuchenkova would have won the point and taken the game.

Instead, it was replayed, Kartal won the point and went on to break for a 5-4 lead.

Pavlyuchenkova had seen the ball was out - and a TV replay showed that was the case by some distance.

Addressing the crowd, Helwerth said: "We're just going to check if the system was up and running, because there was no audio call."

After a telephone call, he announced the electronic system "was unfortunately unable to track the last point" and ordered the point to be replayed.

The rulebook states that if the electronic line calling system fails to make a call, "the call shall be made by the chair umpire".

It adds: "If the chair umpire is unable to determine if the ball was in or out, then the point shall be replayed. This protocol applies only to point-ending shots or in the case when a player stops play."

The fact Pavlyuchenkova went on to win the match meant the malfunction was not as costly as it could have been, although she still questioned why the umpire did not call it out.

"That's why he's there," she said. "He also saw it out, he told me after the match.

"I thought he would do that, but he didn't. Instead they just said replay.

"I don't know if it's something to do [with Kartal being] local.

"I think it's also difficult for him. He probably was scared to take such a big decision."

A shot from Sonay Kartal lands out as Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova is about to hit it
Image caption,

The electronic line-calling system did not call the shot from Sonay Kartal out

'You took the game away from me'

Pavlyuchenkova was clearly frustrated when she returned to her chair at the end of the game.

She told the umpire: "I don't know if it's in or out. How do I know? How can you prove it?

"You took the game away from me ... They stole the game from me. They stole it."

The automated line-calling system was introduced at Wimbledon for the first time this year.

Debbie Jevans - chair of the All England Club - said on Friday she was confident in its accuracy and the decision to bring it in.

Umpire speaks to PavlyuchenkovaImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

The umpire explained to the players there had been no line call

Electronic line-calling technology has been under scrutiny this week at Wimbledon, with a number of players saying they do not trust it.

Britain's Emma Raducanu has been one of those to voice concerns, saying some of the calls had been "dodgy", while former Olympic champion Belinda Bencic said the technology was a topic of discussion among players in the locker room.

Bencic said she was usually a fan of the technology but "it is not correct" at this tournament.

Line judges have been replaced by technology at many top-level tournaments, including the US Open and Australian Open.

Jevans previously said the technology was brought in because "the players wanted it" and some have backed the system, with former world number one Iga Swiatek saying she has had doubts but "has to trust" the calls.

'Let's just play without umpires'

When there were line judges, players could challenge the calls by using an electronic review. There are no challenges under the current system and video replays are not used.

Pavlyuchenkova suggested tennis should use video checks like football does "so that we can review the point".

"On such a big event I think it is necessary, since this isn't the first time this has happened," she told BBC Sport.

She said umpires were there to make big decisions otherwise they could "just play without them", adding: "I think the chair umpire should be able to take initiatives.

"That's what he is there for and that's why he is sitting in that chair, otherwise I think we could have also had a match without a chair umpire.

"They have no problem giving us fines and code violations, for any reason sometimes. So I would like them to be a bit more intensive to this sort of situation."

Pavlyuchenkova added in a news conference: "I would prefer they looked at the lines and call in the errors [and] mistakes better."

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How Pavlyuchenkova's 'incredible mental toughness' overcame glaring error

Wimbledon 2025

30 June to 13 July

Live across BBC TV, radio and online with extensive coverage on BBC iPlayer, Red Button, Connected TVs and mobile app.

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Murder inquiry after scientist found injured on street

Police Scotland Dr GomoPolice Scotland
Dr Gomo completed her PhD at the University of Dundee in 2022

A man has been charged in connection with the death of a scientist after she was found seriously injured on a Dundee street.

Dr Fortune Gomo, 39, who was originally from Zimbabwe, was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, which happened on South Road at about 16:25 on Saturday.

The 20-year-old suspect is expected to appear before Dundee Sheriff Court on Monday.

Dr Gomo, who worked for Scottish Water, lived locally and was a graduate of the University of Dundee.

Prof Nigel Seaton, interim principal and vice-chancellor, said the university was "shocked" by the death of the former research assistant.

Police carried out extensive investigations at the scene on Sunday

Det Supt Peter Sharp, the officer in charge of the inquiry, said: "Firstly, my thoughts remain with Fortune's family at this incredibly sad time.

"They are being supported by specialist officers and I would ask that their privacy is respected."

He added inquiries were continuing and said the incident "poses no wider risk to the public".

The senior officer said his team were following a number of lines of inquiry.

Det Supt Sharp added: "I am also acutely aware of content circulating on social media and would urge the public not to speculate about the circumstances of the incident.

"The public will notice a visibly increased police presence in the area and I would encourage anyone who has any concerns to speak with our officers."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the force.

A large section of South Road was cordoned off on Sunday
A large section of South Road was cordoned off on Sunday

Prof Seaton said Dr Gomo was a PhD student and then postdoctoral research assistant in geography at the University of Dundee until February 2022.

Dr Gomo had recently joined Scottish Water as a senior service planner in water resource planning and was "thriving in her career".

Prof Seaton added: "Her death, following an alleged attack in South Road, Dundee, on Saturday afternoon, is a truly shocking event in our city and for our University community.

"It will be particularly distressing for those who knew and worked with Fortune throughout her time here at the University, and for all of those in our close-knit community of African colleagues and students.

"Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues at this tragic time."

He said students affected by Dr Gomo's death could find "support and solace" in the university's Chaplaincy Centre, which will open on Monday.

Eurostar train evacuated during nine-hour delay in northern France

James Grierson Several passengers stood on leafy ground by the side of the trainJames Grierson
Passengers were asked to leave the train which had broken down near Calais

People have been evacuated from a broken-down Eurostar train in northern France after waiting nearly four hours for help, passengers have told the BBC.

One person who was on board said they had been stuck on the train without air conditioning before emergency services and local rescue teams arrived to hand out water.

James Grierson said he was evacuated alongside a number of "very frustrated" passengers, and there was "no sign" of a replacement train to collect them.

Eurostar has been approached for comment. It had earlier posted messages on social media urging passengers to remain in their seats and wait for a replacement train.

James Grierson Several men in high-vis clothing are seen helping passengers off the trainJames Grierson
Passengers say local rescue teams attended the train hours after it had stopped

The affected train was en route from Brussels to London before it suffered "some electrical failing 10 minutes outside of Calais", Mr Grierson said.

Eurostar has not yet commented on the cause of the delay.

Pictures from the scene show dozens of people stood outside the stationary train, along with rescuers in high-vis jackets - one carrying an armful of bottled water.

Several passengers have messaged Eurostar on X, complaining of no air conditioning, overflowing toilets and a lack of updates.

The rail operator has replied to some of these messages apologising and saying a replacement train has been arranged to pick them up.

The Brooklyn Allergist’s Office That Was Once Home to a Spy

An antislavery spy who worked for the British in New York in the 1800s lived in a house that is now home to an allergy doctor descended from Horace Greeley.

© Clark Hodgin for The New York Times

Since around 1912, four generations descended from the renowned New-York Tribune editor Horace Greeley have lived at 140 Clinton Street in Brooklyn Heights. Many have been doctors.

Murder inquiry launched after scientist found injured on street

Police Scotland Dr GomoPolice Scotland
Dr Gomo completed her PhD at the University of Dundee in 2022

A man has been charged in connection with the death of a scientist after she was found seriously injured on a Dundee street.

Dr Fortune Gomo, 39, who was originally from Zimbabwe, was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, which happened on South Road at about 16:25 on Saturday.

The 20-year-old suspect is expected to appear before Dundee Sheriff Court on Monday.

Dr Gomo, who worked for Scottish Water, lived locally and was a graduate of the University of Dundee.

Prof Nigel Seaton, interim principal and vice-chancellor, said the university was "shocked" by the death of the former research assistant.

Police carried out extensive investigations at the scene on Sunday

Det Supt Peter Sharp, the officer in charge of the inquiry, said: "Firstly, my thoughts remain with Fortune's family at this incredibly sad time.

"They are being supported by specialist officers and I would ask that their privacy is respected."

He added inquiries were continuing and said the incident "poses no wider risk to the public".

The senior officer said his team were following a number of lines of inquiry.

Det Supt Sharp added: "I am also acutely aware of content circulating on social media and would urge the public not to speculate about the circumstances of the incident.

"The public will notice a visibly increased police presence in the area and I would encourage anyone who has any concerns to speak with our officers."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the force.

A large section of South Road was cordoned off on Sunday
A large section of South Road was cordoned off on Sunday

Prof Seaton said Dr Gomo was a PhD student and then postdoctoral research assistant in geography at the University of Dundee until February 2022.

Dr Gomo had recently joined Scottish Water as a senior service planner in water resource planning and was "thriving in her career".

Prof Seaton added: "Her death, following an alleged attack in South Road, Dundee, on Saturday afternoon, is a truly shocking event in our city and for our University community.

"It will be particularly distressing for those who knew and worked with Fortune throughout her time here at the University, and for all of those in our close-knit community of African colleagues and students.

"Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues at this tragic time."

He said students affected by Dr Gomo's death could find "support and solace" in the university's Chaplaincy Centre, which will open on Monday.

Norris takes first Silverstone win in dramatic race

Norris takes first Silverstone win in dramatic race

McLaren's Lando Norris raises his arms in celebration after winning the British Grand PrixImage source, PA Media
Image caption,

Lando Norris has won races on consecutive weekends after his victory in Austria a week ago

McLaren's Lando Norris took his first home victory in a chaotic, dramatic, rain-affected British Grand Prix.

Norris benefited from a 10-second penalty handed to team-mate Oscar Piastri, who was found to have driven erratically during a restart after one of two safety-car periods at Silverstone.

Piastri had led the race calmly through a heavy shower of rain and series of incidents but was passed by Norris when he served his penalty at his final pit stop in the closing laps.

Norris appeared to be crying in his helmet on the slowing-down lap and described the win as "beautiful".

It reduces his deficit to Piastri in the drivers' championship to eight points.

"Apart from a championship, I think this is as good as it gets in terms of feelings and in terms of achievement, being proud, all of it," Norris said.

"The last few laps, I was just looking into the crowd. I was just trying to take it all in, enjoy the moment, because it might never happen again. I hope it does. But these are memories that I'll bring with me forever."

Nico Hulkenberg, 37, took his first podium finish at the 239th attempt - setting a new record for the longest time before finishing in the top three - after a strong race for Sauber.

The German managed to keep Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari at bay in the closing laps as Red Bull's Max Verstappen came home fifth.

Record crowd sees action-packed race

Max Verstappen spins entering Vale just as racing resumed after a safety carImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Max Verstappen facing in the wrong direction after spinning coming out of Stowe

An all-time F1 record crowd - 168,000 on the day and 500,000 over the weekend - were treated to an action-packed race.

Perhaps the most extraordinary moment came when Verstappen spun before racing had resumed at the restart after the second safety-car period.

Verstappen appeared to have been distracted by what had happened a few seconds before in the incident that earned Piastri his penalty.

As Piastri prepared for the final restart on lap 22, he slowed on the Hangar Straight. Verstappen, partially unsighted in the wet conditions, briefly passed the Australian, and then complained over the radio that he had suddenly braked.

It carried echoes of an incident at the Canadian Grand Prix two races ago, when Red Bull protested against a similar action by race winner George Russell of Mercedes, but had it rejected.

This time, the stewards decided Piastri had contravened a regulation that demands drivers "proceed at a pace which involved no erratic braking nor any other manoeuvre which is likely to endanger other drivers from the point at which the lights on the safety car are turned off".

Piastri was angry, but said he was "not going to say much because I'll get myself into trouble" - a reference to rules that say drivers can be penalised for criticising officials.

"Apparently you can't break behind the safety car any more. I did it for five laps before that," he said.

As the field rounded Stowe, Verstappen lost control and spun, dropping down to 10th place.

He recovered to fifth but is now 69 points behind Piastri and his championship hopes are dimmer than ever, especially in the face of McLaren's consistently strong form.

Hulkenberg, meanwhile, secured a hugely popular podium place from 19th on the grid.

"Coming from almost last it was pretty surreal, not sure how it happened," he said.

"We were really on it, the right calls. I was in denial until probably the last pit stop. But when we gapped Lewis I thought, 'OK.' The pressure was there. I knew he would give it all in front of his home crowd, but I was like, 'Sorry guys, this is my day. I have to stick my neck out.'"

Oscar Piastri passes Max Verstappen for lead on lap eightImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Oscar Piastri passes Max Verstappen for the lead on lap eight

The race started on a wet track after a soaking wet morning, but with the sun out and more rain heading towards Silverstone.

Verstappen held the lead through a brief challenge from Piastri off the line but he could not shake the McLarens, and Piastri was soon challenging him hard for the lead.

Before he could try a move, though, a virtual safety car was deployed after Sauber's Gabriel Bortoleto crashed at Turn Two on lap four.

The race was restarted on lap seven, and Piastri was past Verstappen on the Hangar Straight before two laps were over, building a 2.9-second lead after just one lap.

It was then Norris' turn to challenge the Red Bull, but Verstappen gifted him the position when he slid off at Becketts on lap 11, just as heavy rain started.

That brought the drivers into the pits for fresh intermediates. By then, Aston Martin's Lance Stroll had gained time by an earlier change to soft tyres when the track was drying and emerged in fourth place, with Hulkenberg in fifth after stopping for inters on lap 10, so benefiting when others had to drive on a wet track on slick tyres and then pit.

The rain became heavier and a safety car was deployed on lap 14. The race restarted on lap 18, but a second safety car was sent out within a lap after Racing Bulls' Isack Hadjar ran into the back of Kimi Antonelli's Mercedes at Copse because he could not see him in the spray.

When the race restarted for the last time on lap 22, Piastri started to try to build a lead but he was not able to get more than four seconds ahead before Norris came back at him - he was less than two seconds back by the time Piastri pitted to serve his penalty with nine laps to go.

Stroll was unable to hold on to his third place, soon being passed by Hulkenberg, then Hamilton, and eventually dropping down to seventh place.

Behind Verstappen, Alpine's Pierre Gasly, who was fifth at the restart, lost places to Hamilton and the Dutchman but was able to secure sixth place.

Williams' Alex Albon was eighth, ahead of Fernando Alonso, who was frustrated by his team's strategy costing him places in the topsy-turvy early part of the race, then pitted a couple of laps too early for slick tyres as the track dried in the closing stages.

That dropped him to last, but he recovered to take ninth, ahead of Mercedes' George Russell, who also stopped early for slicks for the final time.

Top 10

Lando Norris' McLaren during the British Grand Prix as torrential rain fallsImage source, Reuters
Image caption,

Torrential rain falls on Silverstone and the eventual race winner Lando Norris

1. Lando Norris (McLaren)

2. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)

3. Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber)

4. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)

5. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

6. Pierre Gasly (Alpine)

7. Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)

8. Alex Albon (Williams)

9. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)

10. George Russell (Mercedes)

What's next?

It's a three-week break before we move into the second half of the season with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, which this year is a sprint event, from 25-27 July.

Related topics

Eurostar train evacuated during eight-hour delay in northern France

James Grierson Several passengers stood on leafy ground by the side of the trainJames Grierson
Passengers were asked to leave the train which had broken down near Calais

People have been evacuated from a broken-down Eurostar train in northern France after waiting nearly four hours for help, passengers have told the BBC.

One person who was on board said they had been stuck on the train without air conditioning before emergency services and local rescue teams arrived to hand out water.

James Grierson said he was evacuated alongside a number of "very frustrated" passengers, and there was "no sign" of a replacement train to collect them.

Eurostar has been approached for comment. It had earlier posted messages on social media urging passengers to remain in their seats and wait for a replacement train.

James Grierson Several men in high-vis clothing are seen helping passengers off the trainJames Grierson
Passengers say local rescue teams attended the train hours after it had stopped

The affected train was en route from Brussels to London before it suffered "some electrical failing 10 minutes outside of Calais", Mr Grierson said.

Eurostar has not yet commented on the cause of the delay.

Pictures from the scene show dozens of people stood outside the stationary train, along with rescuers in high-vis jackets - one carrying an armful of bottled water.

Several passengers have messaged Eurostar on X, complaining of no air conditioning, overflowing toilets and a lack of updates.

The rail operator has replied to some of these messages apologising and saying a replacement train has been arranged to pick them up.

A girls' summer camp cut short by deadly disaster

Getty Images Muddied bunk bedsGetty Images

Camp Mystic, a Christian girls' camp perched on the banks of the Guadalupe River in Texas, was a place of laughter, prayer, and adventure just days ago.

Among the girls at the camp was eight-year-old Renee Smajstrla, smiling ear-to-ear in a picture taken on one of those days - "having the time of her life" with her friends.

But the next day, the camp she, and so many other young girls loved, turned into the site of one of the deadliest flood disasters in recent Texas history.

Smajstrla was among those killed.

"She will forever be living her best life at Camp Mystic," her uncle Shawn Salta wrote on Facebook.

Photos show the eerie aftermath: the bunk beds are still there - mud-caked and toppled over, the detritus of a summer camp cut tragically short.

Destroyed personal belongings are scattered across soaked interiors where children once gathered for Bible study and campfire songs.

Camp Mystic Renee SmajstrlaCamp Mystic
Renee Smajstrla

At least 59 people - among them camp's longtime director, Richard "Dick" Eastland, and several young campers - have been confirmed dead.

Eleven of its campers and one camp counsellor remain missing. Many of the girls who remain missing were sleeping in low-lying cabins less than 500ft (150m) from the riverbank, US media report.

Getty Images Scattered personal belongingsGetty Images

Camp Mystic has been operated by the same family for generations, offering girls a chance to grow "spiritually" in a "wholesome" Christian atmosphere, according to its website.

Families from all across Texas and the US send their daughters each summer to swim, canoe, ride horses, and form lifelong friendships.

But the beauty of the Guadalupe River, which draws so many to the area, also proved deadly.

The floodwaters arrived with little warning, ripping through the picturesque riverfront area that is home to nearly 20 youth camps.

Though Camp Mystic suffered the greatest losses, officials say the scale of the disaster is far-reaching.

Nearby, the all-girls camp Heart O' the Hills also faced flooding.

Its co-owner and director, Jane Ragsdale, was among the dead. Fortunately, the camp was out of session at the time.

A statement from the camp said, "Most of those who were on camp at the time have been accounted for and are on high ground… We are mourning the loss of a woman who influenced countless lives and was the definition of strong and powerful."

Getty Images Outside building of Camp MysticGetty Images

Questions are now mounting over why so many camps were situated so close to the river, and why more was not done to evacuate the children in time.

Congressman Chip Roy, who represents the area, acknowledged the devastation while urging caution against premature blame.

"The response is going to be, 'We've gotta move all these camps - why would you have camps down here by the water?'" Roy said.

"Well, you have camps by the water because it's by the water. You have camps near the river because it's a beautiful and wonderful place to be."

As recovery efforts continue, families wait anxiously for news of the missing. Search and rescue teams - some navigating by boat, others combing through debris - are working around the clock.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said on Sunday the search for survivors continued.

"Until we can get them reunited families, we are not going to stop," City Manager Dalton Rice said.

Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency, and officials warn the final toll may rise in the days to come.

A girls' summer camp cut short by deadly disaster

Getty Images Muddied bunk bedsGetty Images

Camp Mystic, a Christian girls' camp perched on the banks of the Guadalupe River in Texas, was a place of laughter, prayer, and adventure just days ago.

Among the girls at the camp was eight-year-old Renee Smajstrla, smiling ear-to-ear in a picture taken on one of those days - "having the time of her life" with her friends.

But the next day, the camp she, and so many other young girls loved, turned into the site of one of the deadliest flood disasters in recent Texas history.

Smajstrla was among those killed.

"She will forever be living her best life at Camp Mystic," her uncle Shawn Salta wrote on Facebook.

Photos show the eerie aftermath: the bunk beds are still there - mud-caked and toppled over, the detritus of a summer camp cut tragically short.

Destroyed personal belongings are scattered across soaked interiors where children once gathered for Bible study and campfire songs.

Camp Mystic Renee SmajstrlaCamp Mystic
Renee Smajstrla

At least 59 people - among them camp's longtime director, Richard "Dick" Eastland, and several young campers - have been confirmed dead.

Eleven of its campers and one camp counsellor remain missing. Many of the girls who remain missing were sleeping in low-lying cabins less than 500ft (150m) from the riverbank, US media report.

Getty Images Scattered personal belongingsGetty Images

Camp Mystic has been operated by the same family for generations, offering girls a chance to grow "spiritually" in a "wholesome" Christian atmosphere, according to its website.

Families from all across Texas and the US send their daughters each summer to swim, canoe, ride horses, and form lifelong friendships.

But the beauty of the Guadalupe River, which draws so many to the area, also proved deadly.

The floodwaters arrived with little warning, ripping through the picturesque riverfront area that is home to nearly 20 youth camps.

Though Camp Mystic suffered the greatest losses, officials say the scale of the disaster is far-reaching.

Nearby, the all-girls camp Heart O' the Hills also faced flooding.

Its co-owner and director, Jane Ragsdale, was among the dead. Fortunately, the camp was out of session at the time.

A statement from the camp said, "Most of those who were on camp at the time have been accounted for and are on high ground… We are mourning the loss of a woman who influenced countless lives and was the definition of strong and powerful."

Getty Images Outside building of Camp MysticGetty Images

Questions are now mounting over why so many camps were situated so close to the river, and why more was not done to evacuate the children in time.

Congressman Chip Roy, who represents the area, acknowledged the devastation while urging caution against premature blame.

"The response is going to be, 'We've gotta move all these camps - why would you have camps down here by the water?'" Roy said.

"Well, you have camps by the water because it's by the water. You have camps near the river because it's a beautiful and wonderful place to be."

As recovery efforts continue, families wait anxiously for news of the missing. Search and rescue teams - some navigating by boat, others combing through debris - are working around the clock.

Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha said on Sunday the search for survivors continued.

"Until we can get them reunited families, we are not going to stop," City Manager Dalton Rice said.

Governor Greg Abbott has declared a state of emergency, and officials warn the final toll may rise in the days to come.

Bessent Says He Expects Trade Deals by This Week’s Deadline

But the Treasury secretary also said that some countries working toward agreements with the United States could have until Aug. 1.

© Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times

“There’s a lot of foot dragging on the other side, and so I would expect to see several big announcements over the next couple of days,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Sunday.

Texas flood victims: Girl 'having time of her life' and 'heart and soul' of camp

Camp Mystic Renee Smajstrla at Camp Mystic on ThursdayCamp Mystic
This picture of Renee Smajstrla was clicked at Camp Mystic on Thursday, her uncle wrote on Facebook

An eight-year-old girl and the director of an all-girls' summer camp are among the victims of flash floods in Texas that have claimed at least 43 lives, including 15 children.

Officials say most of the victims have been identified, though the identities of six adults and a child remain unknown. Authorities have not yet released any names publicly.

Here's what we know so far about the victims.

Renee Smajstrla

Eight-year-old Renee Smajstrla was at Camp Mystic when flooding swept through the summer camp for girls, her uncle said in a Facebook post.

"Renee has been found and while not the outcome we prayed for, the social media outreach likely assisted the first responders in helping to identify her so quickly," wrote Shawn Salta, of Maryland.

"We are thankful she was with her friends and having the time of her life, as evidenced by this picture from yesterday," he wrote. "She will forever be living her best life at Camp Mystic."

Camp Mystic, where 27 children are missing, is a nearly century-old Christian summer camp for girls on the banks of the Guadalupe River near Hunt, Texas.

Operated by generations of the same family since the 1930s, the camp's website bills itself as a place for girls to grow "spiritually" in a "wholesome" Christian atmosphere "to develop outstanding personal qualities and self-esteem".

Jane Ragsdale

Heart O' the Hills Jane RagsdaleHeart O' the Hills
Jane Ragsdale was described as the "heart and soul" of Heart O' the Hills camp

Heart O' the Hills is another all-girls' camp that sits along the Guadalupe River, and it was right in the path of Friday's flood.

Jane Ragsdale, described as the "heart and soul" of Heart O'Hills, "did not make it", a post shared on the camp's official website said on Saturday.

Ragsdale, who started off as a camper then a counsellor, became the director and co-owner of the camp in 1976.

"We are mourning the loss of a woman who influenced countless lives and was the definition of strong and powerful," the camp website post said.

Heart O' the Hills wasn't in session and "most of those who were on camp at the time have been accounted for and are on high ground", the statement said.

"Access to the site is difficult, and authorities are primarily focused on locating the missing and preventing further loss of life and property".

Sarah Marsh

Camp Mystic Sarah MarshCamp Mystic

Sarah Marsh, a student at Cherokee Bend Elementary School in Texas, would have entered third grade in August.

She, too, was attending Camp Mystic when the floods struck, and reported as missing along with about two dozen other campers.

Her grandmother, Debbie Ford Marsh, took to Facebook on Friday asking for prayers. Just hours later she shared online that her granddaughter was among the girls killed.

"We will always feel blessed to have had this beautiful spunky ray of light in our lives. She will live on in our hearts forever!" Ms Ford Marsh wrote on Facebook.

In a post on Facebook, Alabama Senator Katie Britt said she's "heartbroken over the loss of Sarah Marsh, and we are keeping her family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time".

Lila Bonner

Nine-year-old Lila Bonner, a Dallas native was found dead after flooding near Camp Mystic, according to NBC News.

"In the midst of our unimaginable grief, we ask for privacy and are unable to confirm any details at this time," her family said in a statement to the news outlet.

"We ache with all who loved her and are praying endlessly."

Hamas security officer says group has lost control over most of Gaza

NurPhoto via Getty Images Displaced Palestinian children play inside a destroyed police car in a temporary camp within the site of the Arafat Police Academy, in the destroyed police camp affiliated with Hamas, in Gaza City (10 April 2025)NurPhoto via Getty Images
A displaced child plays inside a destroyed vehicle at the Arafat Police Academy in Gaza City

A senior officer in Hamas's security forces has told the BBC the Palestinian armed group has lost about 80% of its control over the Gaza Strip and that armed clans are filling the void.

The lieutenant colonel said Hamas's command and control system had collapsed due to months of Israeli strikes that have devastated the group's political, military and security leadership.

The officer was wounded in the first week of the war, which began after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, and has since stepped away from his duties for health reasons.

He shared several voice messages with the BBC on condition of anonymity.

In the messages, the officer painted a picture of Hamas's internal disintegration and the near-total collapse of security across Gaza, which the group governed before the conflict.

"Let's be realistic here - there's barely anything left of the security structure. Most of the leadership, about 95%, are now dead... The active figures have all been killed," he said. "So really, what's stopping Israel from continuing this war?"

"Logically, it has to continue until the end. All the conditions are aligned: Israel has the upper hand, the world is silent, the Arab regimes are silent, criminal gangs are everywhere, society is collapsing."

Last September, Israel's then-defence minister declared that "Hamas as a military formation no longer exists" and that it was engaged in guerrilla warfare.

According to the officer, Hamas attempted to regroup during the 57-day ceasefire with Israel earlier this year, reorganizing its political, military, and security councils.

But since Israel ended the truce in March, it has targeted Hamas's remaining command structures, leaving the group in disarray.

"About the security situation, let me be clear: it has completely collapsed. Totally gone. There's no control anywhere," he said.

"People looted the most powerful Hamas security apparatus (Ansar), the complex which Hamas used to rule Gaza.

"They looted everything, the offices - mattresses, even zinc panels - and no-one intervened. No police, no security."

Anadolu via Getty Images Members of the Hamas-run Gaza police force stand next to destroyed buildings at the Arafat Police Academy, in Gaza City, during a ceasefire with Israel (22 January 2025)Anadolu via Getty Images
Hamas-run security forces went out in uniform during a ceasefire with Israel in January

The officer said a consequence of the security vacuum was gangs or armed clans were "everywhere".

"They could stop you, kill you. No one would intervene. Anyone who tried to act on their own, like organising resistance against thieves, was bombed by Israel within half an hour.

"So, the security situation is zero. Hamas's control is zero. There's no leadership, no command, no communication. Salaries are delayed, and when they do arrive, they're barely usable. Some die just trying to collect them. It's total collapse."

On 26 June, at least 18 people were killed when an Israeli drone strike targeted a plainclothes Hamas police unit attempting to assert control over a market in Deir al-Balah, accusing vendors of price gouging and selling looted aid, witnesses and medics said.

The Israeli military said it struck "several armed terrorists" belonging to Hamas's Internal Security Forces.

Reuters Palestinians mourn next to the bodies of people killed in an Israeli strike in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, on 26 June 2025Reuters
At least 18 Palestinians were reportedly killed in an Israeli strike that targeted a Hamas-run police unit in Deir al-Balah on 26 June

In this vacuum, six armed groups affiliated with powerful local clans have emerged as serious contenders to fill the void, according to the officer.

These groups have access to money, weapons and men, and are active across all of Gaza, but mostly in the south.

One of them is led by Yasser Abu Shabab, a figure who has attracted attention from the Palestinian Authority, which is based in the occupied West Bank and is a rival to Hamas, as well as regional players - particularly after Israel confirmed last month that it was supplying him with weapons.

The officer confirmed that Hamas had placed a large bounty on Abu Shabab's head, fearing he could become a unifying figure for its many enemies.

"Hamas would ignore ordinary thieves. People are hungry and [the fighters] don't want to provoke more chaos. But this guy? If the Hamas fighters find him, they might go after him instead of Israeli tanks."

Sources in Gaza told the BBC that Abu Shabab was working to co-ordinate with other armed groups to form a joint council aimed at toppling Hamas.

Reuters Armed members of a local Palestinian clan sit on top of a UN aid convoy to protect it, near Beit Lahia, in northern Gaza (25 June 2025)Reuters
Armed members of a local clan said they accompanied a convoy of UN aid lorries in northern Gaza to protect it from looting last month

A retired Palestinian security official, who was part of the force that cracked down on Hamas's military wing in 1996 following a wave of bombings in Israel, said Abu Shabab's network was gaining traction.

"Abu Shabab's group is like an orphaned child who everyone will want to adopt if he succeeds in undermining Hamas rule," said the official, who now lives in Cairo.

"Publicly, all sides deny links to the armed groups in Gaza. But Abu Shabab has met a senior Palestinian intelligence officer three times and sent messages of assurance to the Egyptians through relatives in Sinai," he claimed.

He also said Abu Shabab "maintains good ties with Mohammad Dahlan's camp". Dahlan is a former Gaza security chief who has lived in exile since he fell out with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas 15 years ago.

The Hamas security officer warned the group was "willing to do anything" to eliminate Abu Shabab not because of his current military strength, but out of fear he could become a symbol around which all of Hamas's adversaries rally.

"For 17 years, Hamas made enemies everywhere. If someone like Abu Shabab can rally those forces, that could be the beginning of the end for us."

As Gaza is plunged further into lawlessness, with entire neighbourhoods descending into gang rule, Hamas finds itself not just under Israeli fire but increasingly surrounded by rivals from within.

Archaeologists unveil 3,500-year-old city in Peru

Reuters Remnants of the ancient city of Penico in Peru's northern Barranca provinceReuters

Archaeologists have announced the discovery of an ancient city in Peru's northern Barranca province.

The 3,500-year-old city, named Peñico, is believed to have served as a key trading hub connecting early Pacific coast communities with those living in the Andes mountains and Amazon basin.

Located some 200km north of Lima, the site lies about 600 metres (1,970 feet) above sea level and is thought to have been founded between 1,800 and 1,500 BC - around the same time that early civilisations were flourishing in the Middle East and Asia.

Researchers say the discovery sheds light on what became of the Americas' oldest civilisation, the Caral.

Reuters An aerial view of the archaeological zone of Peñico, in Peru, an ancient city established 3,500 years agoReuters
An aerial view of the archaeological zone of Peñico, in Peru, an ancient city established 3,500 years ago

Drone footage released by researchers shows a circular structure on a hillside terrace at the city's centre, surrounded by the remains of stone and mud buildings.

Eight years of research at the site unearthed 18 structures, including ceremonial temples and residential complexes.

In buildings at the site, researchers discovered ceremonial objects, clay sculptures of human and animal figures and necklaces made from beads and seashells.

Peñico is situated close to where Caral, recognised as the oldest known civilisation in the Americas, was established 5,000 years ago at around 3,000 BC in the Supe valley of Peru.

Caral features 32 monuments, including large pyramid structures, sophisticated irrigation agriculture and urban settlements. It is believed to have developed in isolation to other comparative early civilisations in India, Egypt, Sumeria and China.

Dr Ruth Shady, the archaeologist who led the recent research into Peñico and the excavation of Caral in the 1990s, said that the discovery was important for understanding what became of the Caral civilisation after it was decimated by climate change.

The Peñico community was "situated in a strategic location for trade, for exchange with societies from the coast, the highlands and the jungle", Dr Shady told the Reuters news agency.

At a news conference unveiling the findings on Thursday, archaeologist Marco Machacuay, a researcher with the Ministry of Culture, said that Peñico's significance lies in it being a continuation of the Caral society.

Peru is home to many of the Americas' most significant archaeological discoveries, including the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in the Andes and the mysterious Nazca Lines etched into the desert along the central coast.

Uganda's 80-year-old president in bid to extend 40-year rule

Reuters Yoweri Museveni, in white shirt and with fist raised, speaks in Kampala, Uganda, on 5 June 2025Reuters
Yoweri Museveni is one of Africa's longest-serving rulers

Uganda's long-serving president, Yoweri Museveni, 80, has been declared the governing party's candidate in next year's presidential election, opening the way for him to seek to extend his nearly 40 years in power.

In his acceptance speech, Museveni said that he had responded to the call and, if elected, would press ahead with his mission to turn Uganda into a "high middle income country".

Museveni's critics say he has ruled with an iron hand since he seized power as a rebel leader in 1986.

He has won every election held since then, and the constitution has been amended twice to remove age and term limits to allow him remain in office.

Pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine is expected to be Museveni's main challenger in the election scheduled for next January.

Wine told the BBC in April that he would run against Museveni if he was nominated by his party, the National Unity Platform, but it was getting "tougher" to be in opposition because of growing state repression.

"Being in the opposition in Uganda means being labelled a terrorist," he said.

Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, lost the last election in 2021 to Museveni by 35% to 59% in a poll marred by allegations of rigging and a crackdown on the opposition.

Another prominent opposition politician, Kizza Besigye, has been in detention since November after being accused of treason. He denies the allegation, saying his arrest is political.

In his acceptance speech at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) conference on Saturday, Museveni said that he had brought about stability and progress in Uganda.

He said it was crucial that Uganda did not "miss the bus of history as happened in the past when Europe transformed and Africa stagnated and was enslaved".

Museveni added that he wanted Uganda to take a "qualitative leap", and become a "high upper middle income country".

"Other countries in Asia with less natural resources, did it. We can do it," he added.

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Thousands turn out to mark Dalai Lama's 90 birthday

Reuters The bespectacled Dalai Lama cloaked in a red robe with a flowing orange wrap, arrives for his birthday celebrations flanked by two Buddhist's in red robes holding his hand. They are surrounded by suited men and a number of photographers.Reuters
The Dalai Lama appeared in traditional robes and a flowing yellow wrap, smiling and walking with the aid of two monks

Thousands of Tibetan Buddhists streamed into India's Himalayan town of Dharamshala on Sunday to celebrate the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama.

Ferocious monsoon rains did not dampen the spirits as the Tibetan spiritual leader appeared in traditional robes and a flowing yellow wrap, smiling and walking with the aid of two monks.

The hilltop temples echoed with chants, while dance troupes performed with clanging cymbals and bagpipes.

Indian ministers, long-time followers including Hollywood actor Richard Gere and thousands of devotees gathered to honour the exiled leader, revered as an advocate for peace.

EPA/Shutterstock US actor Richard Gere, in a navy shirt and with wooden bracelets on, kisses the hand of the Dalai Lama cloaked in a yellow robe with a bright multi-coloured brooch on.EPA/Shutterstock
Long-time follower and Hollywood star Richard Gere joined the celebrations

Gere took to the podium at the celebrations with a smile on his face to declare what a "joyous, joyous day" it was "to celebrate this extraordinary life." He then embraced the Dalai Lama, who he said "totally embodies selflessness", and kissed his hand.

Sunday's festivities mark the culmination of a week of long-life prayers that began on Monday, aligned with his birthday on the Tibetan lunar calendar.

At a ceremony on Saturday, the Dalai Lama assured followers of his "great physical condition" and said he would live for another 40 years - to 130 - two decades beyond his previous prediction.

Though he said he typically avoided birthday celebrations, the Dalai Lama thanked followers for using the occasion to reflect on peace of mind and compassion. He referred to himself as a "simple Buddhist monk" and said he had no regrets as he looked back on his life at 90.

Reuters Tibetans in yellow masks and with white fluffy headdresses on, in colourful long-sleeve outfits perform a traditional mask dance in front of a cut-out of the Dalai Lama wearing all orange and yellow atop a throneReuters
Tibetans perform a traditional mask dance in front of a cut-out of the Dalai Lama

"While it is important to work for material development, it is vital to focus on achieving peace of mind through cultivating a good heart and by being compassionate, not just toward near and dear ones, but toward everyone," he said in his birthday message.

This week, the Dalai Lama confirmed plans for a successor, putting to rest long-standing speculation over whether the 600-year-old institution would end with him.

According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the Dalai Lama is reincarnated after death - a process deeply rooted in spiritual customs, not political authority.

Reuters Tibetan girls in traditional attire including large pointed navy hats with sky blue adornments perform during birthday celebrationsReuters
Tibetan girls in traditional attire perform during the celebrations

Living in exile since fleeing Chinese rule in 1959, the Dalai Lama has previously said his reincarnation will take place in the "free world", meaning outside of China.

But Beijing, which considers him a separatist, swiftly rejected his authority to determine a successor.

Chinese officials insist that any succession must follow Chinese laws, religious rituals and historical conventions - and ultimately be approved by the government in Beijing.

EPA/Shutterstock The bespectacled Dalai Lama cuts an iced white cake surrounded by people during his 90th birthday celebrationsEPA/Shutterstock
The Dalai Lama cuts his cake

The announcement has reignited fears among Tibetans in exile that China will attempt to name a successor to tighten control over Tibet, the region it occupied in 1950 and has ruled ever since.

The Dalai Lama has long guided the Tibetan diaspora in their struggle for autonomy and resistance to Chinese domination.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended birthday wishes on Sunday, calling him an "enduring symbol of love, compassion, patience and moral discipline".

Former US President Barack Obama also sent greetings, calling him "the youngest 90-year-old I know" and thanking him for his friendship.

Elon Musk says he is launching new political party

EPA Elon MuskEPA

Elon Musk says he is launching a new political party, weeks after a dramatic falling out with US President Donald Trump.

The billionaire announced on his social media platform X that he had set up the America Party and billed it as a challenge to the Republican and Democratic two-party system.

However, it is unclear whether the party has been formally registered with US election authorities, and Musk has not provided details about who will lead it or what form it will take.

He first raised the prospect of launching a party during his public feud with Trump, which saw him leave his role in the administration and engage in a vicious public spat with his former ally.

During that row, Musk posted a poll on X asking users if there should be a new political party in the US.

Referencing that poll in his post on Saturday, Musk wrote: "By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party and you shall have it!

"When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste & graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy.

"Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom."

As of Saturday, no documents indicating the party had been registered with the Federal Electoral Commission.

Musk was a key Trump advocate during the 2024 election and spent $250m (£187m) to help him regain office.

After the election, he was appointed to lead the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), which was tasked with identifying swingeing cuts in the federal budget.

His fallout with Trump began when he left the administration in May and publicly criticised Trump's tax and spending plans. The legislation - which Trump has called his "big, beautiful bill" - was narrowly passed by Congress and signed into law by the president this week.

The massive law includes huge spending commitments and tax cuts, and is estimated to add more than $3tn to the US deficit over the next decade.

Israel sends negotiators to Gaza talks despite 'unacceptable' Hamas demands, PM says

Reuters Israeli hostages' families and their supporters take part in a rally to demand a deal securing their release from captivity in Gaza, in Tel Aviv, Israel (5 July 2025)Reuters
Israeli hostages' families took part in a rally in Tel Aviv to demand a deal that would see them all released

Israel has decided to send a delegation to Qatar on Sunday for proximity talks with Hamas on the latest proposal for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said he had accepted the invitation despite what he described as the "unacceptable" changes that Hamas wanted to make to a plan presented by mediators from Qatar, the US and Egypt.

On Friday night, Hamas said it had delivered a "positive response" to the proposal for a 60-day ceasefire and that it was ready for negotiations.

However, a Palestinian official said the group had sought amendments including a guarantee that hostilities would not resume if talks on a permanent truce failed.

In Gaza itself, the Hamas-run Civil Defence agency said Israeli strikes and gunfire killed at least 35 Palestinians on Saturday.

Seven people were killed, including a doctor and his three children, when tents in the al-Mawasi area were bombed, according to a hospital in the nearby city of Khan Younis.

Meanwhile, two American employees of the controversial aid distribution organisation backed by Israel and the US - the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) - were wounded in what it said was a grenade attack at its site in the Khan Younis area.

The Israeli and US governments both blamed Hamas, which has not commented.

Late on Saturday, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said in a statement that "the changes that Hamas is seeking to make" to the ceasefire proposal were "unacceptable to Israel".

But it added: "In light of an assessment of the situation, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed that the invitation to proximity talks be accepted and that the contacts for the return of our hostages - on the basis of the Qatari proposal that Israel has agreed to - be continued. The negotiating team will leave tomorrow."

Earlier, an Israeli official had briefed local media that there was "something to work with" in the way that Hamas had responded.

Mediators are likely to have their work cut out to bridge the remaining gaps at the indirect talks in Doha.

Watching them closely will be President Trump, who has been talking up the chances of an agreement in recent days.

On Friday, before he was briefed on Hamas's response, he said it was "good" that the group was positive and that "there could be a Gaza deal next week".

Trump is due to meet Netanyahu on Monday, and it is clear that he would very much like to be able to announce a significant breakthrough then.

The families of Israeli hostages and Palestinians in Gaza will also once again be holding their breath.

Hostages' relatives and thousands of their supporters attended a rally in Tel Aviv on Saturday night to call for a comprehensive deal that would bring home all of the hostages.

Among those who spoke was Yechiel Yehoud. His daughter Arbel Yehoud was released from captivity during the last ceasefire, which Trump helped to broker before he took office and which collapsed when Israel resumed its offensive in March.

"President Trump, thank you for bringing our Arbel back to us. We will be indebted to you for the rest of our lives. Please don't stop, please make a 'big beautiful hostages deal'," he said.

Reuters A Palestinian boy walks near a UNRWA school sheltering displaced people that was hit in an Israeli strike, in Gaza City (5 July 2025)Reuters
An overnight Israeli strike hit a UN-run school sheltering displaced people in Gaza City

On Tuesday, the US president said that Israel had accepted the "necessary conditions" for a 60-day ceasefire, during which the parties would work to end the war.

The plan is believed to include the staggered release of 10 living Israeli hostages by Hamas and the bodies of 18 other hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

Fifty hostages are still being held in Gaza, at least 20 of whom are believed to be alive.

The proposal also reportedly says sufficient quantities of aid would enter Gaza immediately with the involvement of the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

A senior Palestinian official familiar with the talks told the BBC on Friday that Hamas was demanding aid be distributed exclusively by the UN and its partners, and that the GHF's operations end immediately.

Another amendment demanded by Hamas was about Israeli troop withdrawals, according to the official.

The US proposal is believed to include phased Israeli pull-outs from parts of Gaza. But the official said Hamas wanted troops to return to the positions they held before the last ceasefire collapsed in March, when Israel resumed its offensive.

The official said Hamas also wanted a US guarantee that Israeli air and ground operations would not resume even if the ceasefire ended without a permanent truce.

The proposal is believed to say mediators will guarantee that serious negotiations will take place from day one, and that they can extend the ceasefire if necessary.

The Israeli prime minister has ruled out ending the war until all of the hostages are released and Hamas's military and governing capabilities are destroyed.

Far-right members of his cabinet have also expressed their opposition to the proposed deal.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on Saturday that the only way to secure the return of the hostages was the "full conquest of the Gaza Strip, a complete halt to so-called 'humanitarian' aid, and the encouragement of emigration" of the Palestinian population.

The Israeli military launched a campaign in Gaza in response to the 7 October 2023 attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.

At least 57,338 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry.

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