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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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Shifting Sands: Israel's Uncertainty Amid Trump's Gulf Visit

As U.S. President Donald Trump embarks on a diplomatic tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, Israel finds itself questioning its standing in Washington's priorities. The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Israel intensifying its military operations in Gaza and Iran edging closer to nuclear capabilities.

Trump's decision to bypass Israel on this trip has fueled concerns among Israeli officials, particularly after recent U.S. actions that appeared to sideline Israeli interests. The abrupt halt in American strikes against Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, following a missile attack near Israel's main airport, was seen as a signal that Israel may no longer be a top priority for Washington. Additionally, reports that the U.S. is no longer insisting on Saudi-Israeli normalization as a prerequisite for civil nuclear cooperation talks have further unsettled Israeli leadership.

Despite reassurances from U.S. officials that the alliance remains strong, Israeli leaders are grappling with the unpredictability of Trump's foreign policy decisions. Some officials describe the administration's approach as chaotic, with decisions often made without prior consultation with Israel. This uncertainty has led to growing public perception that Israel and the U.S. may be diverging on key regional issues.

As Trump focuses on economic and strategic partnerships in the Gulf, Israel is left to navigate its own path, balancing its security concerns with the evolving dynamics of U.S. foreign policy. Whether this marks a temporary shift or a long-term recalibration remains to be seen, but for now, Israel is watching closely, seeking clarity on its place in Washington's agenda.

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