In a remarkable discovery, three rare breeding colonies of the endangered Eurasian Griffon vultures have been found in Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, coinciding with World Vulture Awareness Day. This highlights the Reserve's vital role in biodiversity conservation and its improving environmental health.

Meanwhile, in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition faces growing tensions over education funding and military conscription for the Haredi community. Ultra-Orthodox parties, Shas and United Torah Judaism, have threatened to boycott votes unless their schools receive equal funding, adding to the already strained political landscape.

Over in Sudan, a UN-mandated mission reported potential war crimes by both the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, and called for an arms embargo and peacekeeping force to safeguard civilians. The mission, based on extensive interviews, revealed severe human rights abuses amidst the civil war, underlining the desperate need for international intervention.

Shifting focus to Iraq, date farmers are struggling against climate change and severe drought to preserve a cultural heritage—dates. Despite government efforts to revive date palm cultivation, harvests are being significantly impacted, highlighting the escalating issue of water scarcity and its dire effects on agriculture.

In Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rallied for more international support at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, following a deadly missile strike. Zelensky aimed to fortify Ukraine’s air defenses and defense industries, showing how crucial U.S. backing remains, although future funding remains uncertain.

Lastly, in France, Michel Barnier, the oldest premier in the country’s modern history, steps in amid a political deadlock, prioritizing education and security. Appointed by President Emmanuel Macron, Barnier's leadership comes as Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally gains strength, setting a new tone in French politics.