Baghdad — Human rights groups and diplomats criticized a law that was quietly passed by the Iraqi parliament over the weekend that would impose heavy prison sentences on gay and transgender people. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement that the law passed Saturday “threatens those most at risk in Iraqi society” and “can be used to hamper free-speech and expression.” He warned that the legislation could drive away foreign investment. “International business… Read Full Article

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson visited Columbia University this past week amid protests surrounding the Israel-Hamas war. Johnson met with Jewish students who expressed concerns for their safety.

Their escape follows allegations of slave-like treatment of some foreign workers on other Israeli farms - plus more.

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At least 16 African countries, including South Africa, will hold elections in the remaining months of 2024. Voters who go online for political news are risking exposure to disinformation and misinformation. But a new digital ethics organization aims to help journalists and activists identify false and misleading content so they can educate the public. Zaheer Cassim has the story from Johannesburg.

Tehran, Iran — Iranian authorities have banned an Egyptian TV series depicting a medieval Persian figure over historical "distortions" and "a biased approach," state media reported Sunday. "The Assassins," or "El-Hashashin" in Arabic, recounts the story of Hassan-i Sabbah, the controversial founder of an offshoot Shiite Muslim sect known for bloody political assassinations during the 11th century. The 30-episode series about Sabbah and his band of assassins, who operated out of mountain… Read Full Article

The aid organisation had stopped distributing food in Gaza after an Israeli strike killed seven workers.

The aid organisation had stopped distributing food in Gaza after an Israeli strike killed seven workers.

Police took more than 250 protesters into custody in Arizona, Indiana, Massachusetts and Missouri this weekend, as the war in Gaza continues to embroil campuses across the nation.