Pope Leo XIV condemns the inhumane use of hunger as a weapon of war in message to UN conference

Pope Leo XIV strongly condemned the use of hunger as a "weapon of war" during a message delivered to the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization conference in Rome. He emphasized the moral and humanitarian crisis caused when hunger is deliberately used to weaken populations during conflicts. This tactic not only violates basic human dignity but also runs counter to international law and the principles of peace and justice. The Pope's message came amid escalating tensions and conflicts worldwide, where civilians often bear the brunt of warfare through starvation and deprivation. He called for an urgent global response to address this inhumane strategy, urging leaders and the international community to uphold human rights by ensuring access to food regardless of political or military disputes. The Pope highlighted that war itself is always a defeat and that the use of hunger as a weapon only deepens suffering and prolongs conflict, undermining any hope for reconciliation or lasting peace. His appeal was part of a broader call to resist the temptation of using sophisticated and powerful weapons of war, which lead to barbarity and devastating humanitarian consequences. Pope Leo XIV stressed that peace must be pursued through dialogue, responsibility, and respect for human dignity. He urged diplomacy to silence the weapons and for nations to build their futures through peaceful means rather than violence. His message serves as a profound reminder that the protection of basic human needs, such as food security, is essential to fostering peace and preventing the tragedies of war from escalating further.<br /><br />This humanitarian stance aligns with his recent appeals for nuclear disarmament and peaceful dialogue in conflict zones, highlighting the Church's consistent advocacy for justice, fraternity, and the common good amid global crises.

UK police launch criminal probe into performances at Glastonbury Festival

U.K. police have launched a criminal investigation into the weekend performances by rap punk duo Bob Vylan and Irish-language band Kneecap at the Glastonbury Festival. The probe follows the artists leading crowds in chants calling for "death" to the Israeli military and chanting "Free Palestine." These performances were recorded as public order incidents, prompting legal scrutiny. Bob Vylan, relatively unknown before the event, stirred controversy by leading chants such as "free, free Palestine" and "death, death to the IDF" (Israel Defense Forces), which sparked widespread condemnation. The U.S. State Department revoked Bob Vylan's visas following what it labeled a "hateful tirade" at the festival. The BBC expressed regret for livestreaming the performance and condemned the anti-Semitic sentiments, stating they were "utterly unacceptable" and incompatible with their broadcasting standards. The broadcaster emphasized respect for freedom of expression but firmly opposed incitement to violence. Prominent figures, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, condemned the chants as "appalling hate speech." Glastonbury co-organizer Emily Eavis stated that Bob Vylan had "very much crossed a line" and reiterated that the festival has no tolerance for antisemitism, hate speech, or calls to violence. The Israeli embassy described the rhetoric during the performances as "inflammatory and hateful," expressing deep disturbance at the slogans advocating for the dismantling of the State of Israel. This incident has sparked intense debate in the U.K. about the boundaries between political activism, free speech, and hate speech within music festivals, highlighting the ongoing polarization of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on the global stage. The controversy overshadowed what is usually Britain’s largest summer music event, drawing attention to the complex interplay of art, politics, and social responsibility in public forums.<br /> <br />

Congress considers blocking state AI regulations for up to a decade, raising concerns about oversight and innovation balance

A federal proposal spearheaded by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) seeks to impose a **10-year moratorium on state and local governments regulating artificial intelligence (AI)**. This proposal is currently being pushed for inclusion in a major GOP megabill ahead of a critical July 4 deadline. The moratorium would prohibit states from enforcing any laws or regulations on AI systems, models, or automated decision systems during this period. States would only be eligible for a $500 million AI infrastructure fund if they agree to forego AI regulation for the decade. Proponents of the moratorium, including influential figures like OpenAI’s Sam Altman, argue this federal approach prevents a fragmented regulatory landscape across states, which they claim could stifle innovation and undermine the U.S.'s competitive edge against China. The push for a "light touch" regulatory approach is framed as supporting American AI leadership and fostering innovation. However, the proposal faces significant opposition across party lines. Many Democrats, some Republicans, AI safety advocates, labor groups, and consumer rights organizations warn that the moratorium would indefinitely block states from enacting protective laws related to AI harms. Laws already passed in states like California and Tennessee, which require transparency in AI training data or protect creators against AI-generated impersonations, could be preempted. Critics argue that the proposal sacrifices consumer protections and states’ rights in favor of industry interests. Additionally, concerns have been raised that tying state access to significant broadband funding to compliance with the moratorium could jeopardize rural broadband expansion, further complicating the proposal’s passage. The debate highlights a broader tension between fostering innovation and ensuring accountability and safety in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.<br /><br /> The final decision on the moratorium’s inclusion in the budget bill will shape the regulatory environment of AI in the U.S. for the foreseeable future, with ongoing resistance possibly leading to amendments or political battles on the Senate floor.

Jurassic World Rebirth: Scarlett Johansson Faces Off Against T Rex in a Franchise That Frustrates Fans

Scarlett Johansson stars as Zora Bennett, a skilled mercenary leading a covert mission to obtain dinosaur DNA in the upcoming film "Jurassic World: Rebirth." Zora’s team is tasked with extracting genetic material from a forbidden island once home to a secret Jurassic Park research facility, now populated by various dinosaur species. The mission becomes perilous when they intersect with a civilian family stranded after their boat capsizes in the dangerous waters, forcing them all to survive together amid prehistoric threats. Jonathan Bailey joins the cast as Dr. Henry Loomis, a paleontologist whose expertise is crucial to the expedition. Mahershala Ali plays Duncan Kincaid, Zora’s most trusted team member, providing critical support during the dangerous mission. The film also features Rupert Friend as a Big Pharma representative, Martin Krebs, and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Reuben Delgado, the father of the stranded family. Additional cast members include Luna Blaise, David Iacono, and Audrina Miranda. Directed by Gareth Edwards and scripted by David Koepp, "Jurassic World: Rebirth" is a standalone sequel set five years after the events of "Jurassic World: Dominion." The story integrates scientific accuracy and character-driven drama, emphasizing dinosaurs as animals motivated by survival rather than monstrous villains. The film promises action-packed scenes and suspenseful survival moments as the team confronts both ancient predators and hidden secrets revealed by the island’s long-forgotten history. Producers Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley return to helm the project alongside executive producers including Steven Spielberg. The movie is set for release in mid-2025, continuing the iconic Jurassic franchise with a fresh narrative focused on groundbreaking medical breakthroughs linked to dinosaur DNA. <br /> <br />

Inside the world's largest water park: The terrifying ride that pushed me to my limits

Dubai is home to Aquaventure Waterpark, an expansive aquatic destination located at Atlantis, The Palm resort on Palm Jumeirah Island. This waterpark spans 17 hectares and features a remarkable collection of 105 slides, rides, and attractions, making it one of the largest and most thrilling waterparks in the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of adrenaline-pumping experiences, including high-speed drops, twisting turns, and unique water coasters. Among the world record-breaking slides are "Shockwave," the world's longest family water coaster, and "Odyssey of Terror," the tallest waterslide featuring a double tornado wave. These attractions cater to thrill-seekers looking for unforgettable excitement. One of the park’s iconic rides is the Leap of Faith, a near-vertical slide that plunges from almost 30 meters through a clear tunnel surrounded by a lagoon filled with sharks and rays, offering a breathtaking and exhilarating view. The waterpark also provides a wide range of family-friendly options, including a mile-long river ride, wave pool, rapids, and a dedicated children’s play area filled with tunnels, slides, and climbing frames. For those wanting a break from the action, the park includes a serene 1-kilometer private beach, perfect for relaxation and sunset walks. Additional activities such as zip-lining across the park and swimming safely with marine life add to the diverse offerings. Guests staying at Atlantis, The Palm have complimentary access, while daily passes are available for other visitors, making Aquaventure a must-visit destination for water adventure enthusiasts in Dubai. <br /> <br /> Floating 300 meters high in a tethered balloon nearby, visitors are treated to stunning, unobstructed panoramic views of Dubai’s sparkling skyline, adding another unique perspective to the city’s iconic attractions.

Global Pride Month Celebrations Captured in Vibrant Photos from Around the World

Wrapped in multicolored flags and waving protest signs, revelers worldwide have come together throughout June for Pride events—a vibrant, monthlong celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month is a time to honor the diversity, resilience, and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals while also spotlighting the ongoing struggle for equal rights and social inclusion. Across cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, iconic Pride parades light up streets with colorful floats, energetic performances, and cultural festivities. These events not only foster joy and community spirit but also pay tribute to the historical activism that laid the groundwork for today’s freedoms. In San Francisco, city leaders and advocates commemorate Pride with ceremonies that blend celebration and solemn remembrance, highlighting symbols like the pink triangle—a marker of both persecution during the Holocaust and strength in resistance. Yet Pride is far from just a party. In many places, including Washington, D.C., where World Pride recently concluded, rallies and protest marches underscored the urgency of defending LGBTQ+ rights amid political challenges. Activists carried signs reading “Fight back” and “We will not be erased,” voicing opposition to policies threatening transgender protections and broader community acceptance. The dual nature of Pride—as joyful celebration and defiant protest—remains central to its spirit. It serves to unite people globally in both honoring LGBTQ+ identities and mobilizing against discrimination, ensuring that the fight for justice and inclusion continues with renewed energy every year.<br /> <br />