Hamas open to truce extension as expiry nears

[ad_1] More hostages and prisoners have been swapped between Israel and Hamas as the pause on fighting nears expiry. Hamas expressed willingness to extend the truce. However, it remains uncertain if the sides will come to an agreement for an eighth day. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for an extension of the truce and wants Israel to put civilian protection plans in place if fighting resumes. A truce between Israel and Hamas entered…

"Hamas open to truce extension as expiry nears"

Death toll nears 6 million as pandemic enters its 3rd year

[ad_1] The official global death toll from COVID-19 is on the verge of eclipsing 6 million — underscoring that the pandemic, now in its third year, is far from over. The milestone is the latest tragic reminder of the unrelenting nature of the pandemic even as people are shedding masks, travel is resuming and businesses are reopening around the globe. The death toll, compiled by Johns Hopkins University, stood at 5,997,734 as of Sunday and…

"Death toll nears 6 million as pandemic enters its 3rd year"