Pope Leo XIV used a visit to Lampedusa to urge Europe to protect and integrate migrants while supporting development in their countries of origin. His appeal came as Europe and the United States place growing emphasis on tougher border controls, detention and deportations.
Posts published in “Politics”
Washington canceled its Independence Day parade because of extreme heat but moved forward with America 250 flyovers, Trump remarks and a record-seeking fireworks show. Security was heightened as celebrations also unfolded in Times Square and Philadelphia.
President Donald Trump used a July Fourth anniversary speech at Mount Rushmore to warn of a “communist menace” and call for changes to voting laws. The event included a flyover, fireworks and praise for the four presidents carved into the monument.
Iran began days of funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose coffin lay in state in Tehran alongside relatives killed in the Feb. 28 strike. Authorities expect millions to join processions in Iran and Iraq as officials and foreign delegations pay their respects.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani marked America’s 250th birthday with a City Hall speech celebrating immigrants, citizenship, and patriotism rooted in dissent, offering a contrast to President Trump’s planned Mount Rushmore address. Mamdani emphasized America’s identity as a nation shaped by immigrants and defended birthright citizenship amid ongoing debates over immigration policy.
Pubs in England and Wales can stay open until 5 a.m. for England’s World Cup knockout match against Mexico. Police chiefs criticised the late decision, warning it will strain staffing and could increase alcohol-related disorder.
President Trump said the U.S. relationship with NATO is “ridiculous” and “one sided” ahead of a July summit in Ankara. The dispute centers on defense spending, European responses to U.S. operations in the Middle East and Washington’s future commitments to the alliance.
Iran has begun multi-day funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, more than four months after he was killed in U.S. and Israeli strikes. Officials say the rites could draw up to 20 million mourners and will culminate in his burial in Mashhad.