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    Caitlin Clark brightens young patient’s day with heartwarming hospital visit

    ByJustpaste.in

      Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is making headlines not only for her performances on the basketball court but also for her compassion off it. As the WNBA season enters its second half, the league’s rising superstar has earned widespread praise after taking time out of her busy schedule to visit a local children’s hospital, bringing joy to a young patient during his recovery. Clark has enjoyed an outstanding season with the Indiana Fever, helping the team secure 19 wins while establishing herself as one of the WNBA’s biggest stars. She was also among the standout names at this year’s WNBA All-Star Weekend, where her popularity and influence continued to grow. Despite her demanding schedule, the basketball sensation recently demonstrated that making a positive impact extends beyond the game. Last month, Clark visited Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent in Indianapolis, a full-service pediatric medical center dedicated to providing specialized healthcare for children and supporting their families. During her visit, she spent time with young patients, creating memorable moments for those undergoing treatment. One particularly touching encounter was with 12-year-old Ryker, a basketball fan who has been courageously recovering during an extended hospital stay. The hospital later shared photos of Clark’s visit on social media, showing the athlete smiling alongside Ryker as they enjoyed a heartfelt conversation. In the caption accompanying the images, the hospital praised Ryker’s determination and resilience throughout his recovery. Staff explained that the young patient has shown remarkable strength despite facing significant medical challenges. Knowing his passion for basketball, Clark’s visit became a special surprise that brought excitement and encouragement during a difficult period. Hospital officials also highlighted the unwavering support Ryker has received from his family. Throughout his recovery, his father and grandparents have remained by his side, offering constant encouragement and care. Clark’s visit added another meaningful moment to his journey, giving him a welcome distraction and a reason to smile during his hospital stay. The heartwarming images quickly attracted attention across social media, with fans applauding Clark for taking the time to connect with a young supporter. Many praised her kindness and willingness to use her platform to inspire children facing difficult circumstances. One social media user noted that acts of generosity like these often happen away from the spotlight but can have a lasting impact on patients and their families. Another described Clark as a role model for young people, commending her for bringing hope to children in need. Others applauded her character, crediting her family for raising not only an exceptional athlete but also a compassionate and humble individual. Clark has consistently demonstrated that her influence extends well beyond basketball. While her performances on the court continue to attract attention, her commitment to community engagement and helping others has further strengthened her reputation among fans. Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent is one of Indiana’s leading pediatric healthcare facilities. Located in Indianapolis, the hospital offers a wide range of specialized medical services, including pediatric heart care, brain and spine treatment, cancer care, orthopedic services, and fetal medicine. As the WNBA season continues, Clark remains focused on leading the Indiana Fever in their playoff push. At the same time, her thoughtful hospital visit serves as a reminder that some of an athlete’s greatest contributions come away from the game, where simple acts of kindness can leave a lasting impression on those who need them most.

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    South Korea records highest-ever temperature as extreme heatwave intensifies

    ByJustpaste.in

    South Korea has experienced its hottest day since national weather records began more than 100 years ago, as an intense heatwave continues to grip the country and raise concerns over the growing impact of climate change. According to reports, the southeastern city of Yangsan recorded a temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius (108.5 degrees Fahrenheit) at 1:26 p.m. local time on Sunday, setting a new national record. The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) confirmed that the reading surpassed all previously recorded temperatures since the country began maintaining official weather data more than a century ago. The latest milestone comes amid a prolonged period of extreme heat across South Korea. Yangsan has now recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) for five consecutive days, highlighting the severity of the current heatwave. Weather officials have warned that the scorching conditions are expected to continue, with temperatures in many parts of the country remaining well above seasonal averages. Heatwave warnings remain in place across much of South Korea, where daytime temperatures have climbed into the upper 30s Celsius in numerous cities. More than 20 regions were placed under emergency heatwave alerts on Sunday, reflecting the widespread nature of the dangerous weather conditions. The emergency heatwave warning is the highest level of heat alert introduced by South Korean authorities this year to better respond to increasingly intense summer temperatures. The alert is issued when weather forecasts predict either a perceived temperature of at least 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) or an actual air temperature of 39 degrees Celsius (102.2 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher, even if only for a single day. Meteorological data also indicates that South Korea has experienced a dramatic rise in the frequency of extreme heat over recent decades. According to the KMA, the average number of annual heatwave days has more than doubled over the past five years, increasing to 19 days compared with an average of just eight days during the 1970s. The weather agency defines a heatwave day as one in which the highest daytime temperature reaches at least 33 degrees Celsius (91.4 degrees Fahrenheit). It also classifies a tropical night as one in which overnight temperatures remain above 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), preventing residents from receiving relief from the daytime heat. Climate scientists have repeatedly warned that human-driven climate change is increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves around the world. Rising global temperatures are contributing to more severe weather events, placing additional pressure on public health systems, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy supplies.South Korea’s record-breaking temperatures come during a year marked by numerous climate-related disasters across the globe. Several countries have experienced devastating droughts, destructive wildfires, severe flooding, and powerful storms, underscoring the growing challenges posed by extreme weather. Elsewhere, Europe continues to battle its own climate-related emergencies. Wildfires fueled by scorching temperatures and strong winds have spread across parts of Greece, forcing authorities to evacuate residents from threatened communities. Meanwhile, Spain and France remain under hot and dry conditions, increasing the risk of additional wildfires as firefighters remain on high alert. Experts say the latest record in South Korea serves as another reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and strengthen preparedness for increasingly frequent and intense extreme weather events.

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    Taliban seeks improved ties with Pakistan

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Taliban administration has expressed its desire to reduce tensions and improve relations with Pakistan, saying that continued disputes serve the interests of neither country. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said both sides should work to resolve outstanding issues through dialogue and cooperation. He noted that the closure of border crossings and restrictions faced by Afghan traders have contributed to strained relations and disrupted bilateral trade. Mujahid said the Taliban wants these issues to be addressed to facilitate smoother cross-border movement and strengthen economic ties between the two neighboring countries. He also acknowledged that trade with Pakistan has been affected in recent months, adding that Afghanistan has increased its economic engagement with Iran while pursuing new projects aimed at developing the country’s mineral resources. However, analysts have raised concerns over the transparency of some of the reported mining agreements and questioned whether sufficient oversight and accountability mechanisms are in place. The remarks come at a time when Pakistan and Afghanistan continue to face challenges in bilateral relations, including border management, trade disruptions and broader security concerns.

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    Trump says US-Iran talks to resume Monday

    ByJustpaste.in

    US President Donald Trump has announced that fresh negotiations between the United States and Iran are expected to begin on Monday, saying he decided to suspend planned military action after being encouraged by signs of progress toward a possible agreement. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said discussions with Tehran would resume through diplomatic channels, expressing hope that negotiations could help prevent further escalation in the region. He did not disclose the venue of the talks or identify the officials expected to participate. Earlier, Trump stated that he had delayed what he described as a large-scale military operation after receiving requests from Iran and several key US allies in the Middle East to give diplomacy another opportunity. According to him, regional partners believed a negotiated settlement was within reach and urged Washington to avoid immediate military action. Trump said Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar had all encouraged restraint, arguing that continued dialogue offered the best chance for reducing tensions. He added that discussions were expected to cover issues related to the Strait of Hormuz as well as Iran’s nuclear programme. Despite Trump’s comments, Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed the planned negotiations. Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency rejected claims that Tehran had requested the United States to postpone military action, describing the assertion as inaccurate. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, however, said negotiations involving Oman over the future of the Strait of Hormuz were progressing toward a final stage, indicating that diplomatic contacts remain active. Trump also declined to set a deadline for reaching an agreement, saying his administration was prepared for different outcomes but preferred a peaceful resolution over military confrontation. The announcement had an immediate impact on global energy markets. Oil prices fell sharply in early Asian trading as investors reacted to the possibility of reduced tensions in the Gulf region. Brent crude and US benchmark oil both recorded notable declines following Trump’s remarks. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes, with roughly one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies passing through the narrow waterway. Any disruption in the area has the potential to significantly affect international energy markets.

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    Iran says every threat will strengthen its militar…

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iran’s acting Defence Minister, Seyed Majid Ibn al-Reza, has declared that Tehran will continue strengthening its military capabilities by treating every threat from its adversaries as genuine, even as the United States signals a renewed diplomatic effort. His remarks came after US President Donald Trump announced that Washington had postponed a planned military strike against Iran in favour of restarting negotiations aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East. In a statement posted on social media platform X on Monday, Ibn al-Reza said Iran viewed recent statements from its enemies as part of a broader campaign of psychological and cognitive warfare. However, he stressed that Tehran would not dismiss any warning, regardless of its nature. “We consider every threat to be real and deserving of a serious response,” the acting defence minister said, adding that Iran’s strategy was to transform every external challenge into an opportunity to reinforce its military preparedness and national defence. He said the Iranian armed forces would neither be caught off guard nor remain passive in the face of rising regional tensions. Instead, every warning or hostile statement would serve as a catalyst for expanding the country’s defensive capabilities and maintaining operational readiness. The comments underscore Iran’s continued emphasis on deterrence at a time when uncertainty surrounds the future of US-Iran relations and broader security dynamics across the Gulf. Earlier, President Trump announced that the United States had suspended plans for military action against Iran after requests from Tehran and several Middle Eastern countries to give diplomacy another chance. Writing on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump claimed the US military had been fully prepared for an operation of unprecedented scale, describing it as one of the largest potential military actions since the Second World War. According to Trump, the proposed negotiations focus on two key objectives: ensuring the immediate and uninterrupted reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for global shipping and addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, carrying a significant share of global oil exports. Any disruption in the waterway has the potential to affect international energy markets and regional stability. While Washington has presented the renewed talks as an opportunity to prevent further escalation, Iranian officials continue to insist that the country will not relax its military vigilance during the diplomatic process. The latest exchange of statements reflects the delicate balance between diplomacy and deterrence, with both sides signalling a willingness to negotiate while simultaneously emphasizing military preparedness amid persistent regional tensions.

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    Trump could resume Iran strikes, US senator warns

    ByJustpaste.in

    US Republican Senator Jim Banks has warned that President Donald Trump could order fresh military strikes against Iran if Tehran does not quickly agree to end its nuclear programme and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to Fox News, Banks said the Trump administration still prefers a diplomatic solution but expects Iran to return to negotiations and reach an agreement soon. He warned that if Iranian leaders refuse to come back to the negotiating table, the United States could resume heavy military attacks. According to Banks, the decision to delay further strikes does not represent weakness or a retreat by Washington. Instead, he said, Trump has given Tehran another opportunity to pursue a peaceful settlement and avoid further escalation. The senator also claimed that divisions exist within Iran’s leadership over how to respond to US pressure. He described the situation as a struggle between hardline military figures and elements within the ruling establishment who may favour negotiations. Banks argued that some Iranian officials now recognise the scale of America’s military capabilities and the potential consequences of continued confrontation. He said the pressure from the United States has created a situation in which parts of Iran’s leadership may be more willing to reach an agreement. The Republican senator’s remarks come amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route. Any prolonged disruption in the waterway could have significant consequences for international oil supplies and global markets. Banks maintained that Washington’s objective remains to push Iran toward a deal while keeping military action as an option. His comments suggest that the Trump administration could increase military pressure if diplomatic efforts fail to produce progress in the near future.

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    Calgary housing complex fire sends 6 to hospital, …

    ByJustpaste.in

    CALGARY: A devastating apartment fire in southeast Calgary left six people hospitalized on Sunday after flames rapidly spread through a residential housing complex, triggering a major emergency response and forcing firefighters to battle multiple blazes across the city. Emergency crews rushed to the scene in the 400 block of MacLeod Trail S.E. at approximately 12:25 p.m. following reports of a fire inside the apartment building. According to the Calgary Fire Department, the blaze originated in a single residential suite before quickly spreading, causing significant damage throughout the complex. Firefighters worked to contain the flames and prevent the fire from extending to nearby structures while rescue teams assisted residents trapped inside the building. Alberta Health Services Emergency Medical Services confirmed that six people were transported to hospital with varying degrees of injuries. Among the victims, one person remains in critical condition, while two others sustained serious injuries. Three additional patients were reported to be in stable condition after receiving treatment at the scene before being taken to hospital for further medical care. Officials have not disclosed the identities of the injured or provided details about the circumstances that led to their injuries. Investigators are now working to determine what sparked the fire. Authorities said the cause remains unknown, and a formal investigation has been launched to establish how the blaze began and whether any safety concerns contributed to the incident. The apartment fire was one of several emergencies handled by Calgary firefighters on Sunday, stretching emergency resources across different parts of the city. Earlier in the day, crews responded to another fire in the northwest community of Kensington, where two detached garages and a power pole were damaged. Firefighters also tackled a large blaze at the Shepard Landfill and Eco Centre in southeast Calgary, highlighting an unusually busy day for emergency services. Officials have not yet released information on the number of residents displaced by the apartment fire or the full extent of structural damage to the building. Authorities are expected to continue examining the scene over the coming days as investigators gather evidence and assess the cause of the blaze. The incident serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by rapidly spreading residential fires and the critical role of emergency responders, whose swift action helped evacuate residents and prevent what could have been an even greater tragedy.

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    Hungary shuts only nuclear plant amid drought

    ByJustpaste.in

    BUDAPEST: Hungary has taken the unprecedented step of shutting down its only nuclear power plant after severe drought pushed the Danube River to critically low levels, threatening the facility’s ability to safely cool its reactors and raising fears of an energy crisis during an intense summer heatwave. The closure of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant marks the first complete shutdown in the facility’s 44-year history. The plant, which typically supplies between one-third and 40 percent of Hungary’s electricity, has been forced offline as water levels in the Danube continue to fall amid one of Central Europe’s worst droughts in recent decades. Prime Minister Peter Magyar warned that the country now faces its “most critical five days,” with temperatures expected to climb to around 40 degrees Celsius just as electricity demand peaks. In a video message shared on social media, Magyar said the shutdown would place enormous pressure on Hungary’s electricity grid, public services and essential infrastructure. “Tomorrow, the Paks power plant will not be generating, while the hottest days are still ahead,” he said, urging citizens and businesses to reduce electricity consumption during evening peak hours between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. The 2-gigawatt facility operates four Russian-built reactors that rely on water from the Danube for cooling. With river levels dropping to record lows, authorities determined that continuing operations could compromise reactor safety. Officials have also warned that the plant could remain offline for several weeks if weather conditions fail to improve. The drought has affected more than just power generation. Falling water levels have disrupted river transport, slowed tourism and prompted water-use restrictions in over 100 cities and villages, including areas surrounding Budapest. To maintain electricity supplies, Hungary has begun importing emergency power from neighboring countries while considering additional measures to stabilize the grid. The government is also weighing mandatory electricity restrictions for large industrial consumers if conditions worsen. Officials estimate the crisis could cost the country between 100 billion and 200 billion forints (approximately $315 million to $630 million) because of soaring electricity import prices. Climate experts say the situation highlights the growing vulnerability of Europe’s energy infrastructure to extreme weather events linked to climate change. Nuclear power plants across the continent depend on rivers and lakes for cooling, making prolonged droughts an increasingly serious operational challenge. For now, authorities remain focused on conserving electricity and closely monitoring the Danube’s water levels. With scorching temperatures forecast to continue, Hungary faces a difficult balancing act between ensuring public safety, maintaining energy security and managing one of the country’s most severe climate-related emergencies in decades.

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    Millions left in the dark as Cuba’s power grid c…

    ByJustpaste.in

    HAVANA: Millions of Cubans were left without electricity after the country’s national power grid collapsed late Sunday, triggering another nationwide blackout and deepening an energy crisis that has already strained daily life across the Caribbean island. The state-owned power operator, Union Eléctrica de Cuba, confirmed the grid failure in brief statements posted on social media but did not immediately disclose the cause of the latest outage or provide a timeline for restoring electricity. The blackout affected much of the island, home to nearly 10 million people, and comes after three nationwide power failures in July, raising fresh concerns about the reliability of Cuba’s ageing electricity infrastructure. Residents in Havana and other major cities reported streets falling into darkness as homes, businesses and public services were left without power. The repeated outages have disrupted transportation, communications and essential services, adding to the hardships already faced by many Cubans. Energy experts say the country’s power system has come under increasing pressure as fuel supplies continue to shrink. Cuba has struggled to secure sufficient oil imports following tighter US sanctions and a reduction in support from traditional suppliers. The situation worsened after the United States imposed an oil blockade under President Donald Trump following Washington’s recognition of political changes in Venezuela earlier this year. Venezuela had long been Cuba’s primary source of crude oil, while fuel shipments from Mexico have also declined amid growing US pressure. With limited access to imported fuel, many of Cuba’s ageing thermal power plants have been forced to operate below capacity, making the national grid increasingly vulnerable to large-scale failures. In response to the worsening crisis, Havana has cautiously begun opening parts of its tightly controlled energy sector. The government recently approved its first foreign-backed fuel import venture and authorized nearly 200 Cuban businesses to participate in wholesale fuel distribution in an effort to improve fuel availability. Despite those reforms, analysts warn that restoring stability to Cuba’s electricity system will require significant investment in modern infrastructure and a more reliable supply of fuel. Authorities have not yet announced when power will be fully restored, while emergency teams continue working to stabilize the grid. The latest nationwide blackout underscores the growing challenges facing Cuba’s energy sector as economic pressures, ageing infrastructure and fuel shortages continue to test the resilience of the country’s electricity network. With blackouts becoming increasingly frequent, many residents fear the crisis could worsen unless long-term solutions are found.

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    Heart of Nepal mourns Nirmal Purja after Pakistan …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Nepal: Deep sorrow swept through Nepal as family, friends, teachers, and students gathered at Nirmal Purja’s former school to honor the legendary mountaineer, whose life was tragically cut short in a deadly avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak. At Small Heaven School in Chitwan, candles were lit and flowers placed before a portrait of the celebrated British-Nepali climber, creating an emotional tribute to a man whose remarkable achievements inspired millions around the world. The ceremony took place as rescue teams recovered the 43-year-old’s body following the avalanche that claimed the lives of ten climbers last Thursday. Those who knew Purja long before he became an international mountaineering icon remembered him as a determined and fearless child with extraordinary ambition. Former classmate Dhiraj Bahadur Panta recalled the anxious days when Purja was reported missing, saying friends and admirers across the world had prayed for his safe return. He described the loss as heartbreaking, adding that fate had taken away a man admired by countless people. Teachers also reflected on Purja’s early years, describing him as disciplined, honest, and courageous. Shailendra Baral, who supervised him in the school hostel, said Purja displayed exceptional confidence even as a young student and always stood out for his determination to achieve something meaningful in life. Purja went on to become one of the greatest mountaineers of his generation. In 2019, he rewrote climbing history by scaling the world’s 14 highest peaks in just over six months, smashing a record that had stood for years. His extraordinary accomplishment was later featured in a Netflix documentary, inspiring aspiring climbers and bringing global recognition to Nepal’s mountaineering community. He further cemented his legacy in 2021 by joining the all-Nepali team that completed the first-ever winter ascent of K2, one of the world’s most dangerous mountains. A year later, he returned to his hometown for the screening of his documentary, proudly telling local residents that he hoped his journey would encourage young people to dream beyond their circumstances. Students attending the memorial said Purja’s story had become an enduring source of inspiration within the school. They remembered him not only as a national hero but also as someone who brought immense pride to Nepal through his courage, determination, and unwavering spirit. As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, Nirmal Purja is being remembered not only for conquering the planet’s highest peaks but also for inspiring generations to believe that no dream is beyond reach.