Grammy-winning Chicago rapper Lil Durk, whose real name is Durk Devontay Banks, has been acquitted by a federal jury in Los Angeles of multiple felony counts, including murder and conspiracy, in a murder-for-hire plot. Prosecutors accused Durk of orchestrating a plot to kill Atlanta rapper Quando Rondo, believed to be retaliation for an earlier murder. While cleared of these charges, Durk remains in custody for a separate federal racketeering trial scheduled for later this year.

60/100

Two women, Elizabeth Miller and Jessica Trant, who lost their fathers in the 9/11 attacks, are pursuing answers regarding the delayed trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind. A new documentary, "Daughters of 9/11," chronicles their quest for accountability and closure, despite a military court ruling Mohammed's confession inadmissible due to prior torture. This highlights the ongoing legal complexities and emotional toll for victims' families 25 years after the attacks.

30/100

Labor leader Dave Regan claims he is the target of a "smear" campaign, alleging false accusations of attempted extortion for a billionaire tax measure endorsement and physical assault. Investigations by SEIU found the allegations credible, including reports of threatening female labor leaders. Regan, president of SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West, denies the claims, asserting they are orchestrated by opponents of Proposition 40 and political rivals.

25/100

The United States marked 25 years since the September 11, 2001, terror attacks with remembrance ceremonies in New York City, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Families, first responders, and politicians gathered to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the thousands more who have since died from 9/11-related illnesses. The commemorations included reflections on the enduring health effects on first responders and stories of the children of 9/11 carrying on their fathers' legacies.

45/100

Police in Jackson, Mississippi, have arrested 51-year-old Jarques Ratliff in connection with the death of Tasia Fortune, a Black woman found hanged from a tree in August. Authorities are treating her death as a homicide and anticipate further arrests, with the medical examiner confirming the cause of death. The case has caused significant concern in the community due to Mississippi's history of racial violence and initial police silence, leading to calls for independent investigations into similar deaths of Black Americans.

15/100

Top Dodgers prospect Josue De Paula made his major league debut, demonstrating composure at the plate with a walk and working full counts, despite not securing a hit. The 21-year-old's promotion followed a strong season in double-A, and he is expected to receive regular at-bats as the designated hitter. The Dodgers secured a 6-2 victory over the Marlins, powered by Kyle Tucker's five RBIs, including a grand slam.

85/100

The BRICS bloc, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is facing significant internal challenges, including disagreements on how to approach the United States and a "bottleneck" hindering its development. Despite celebrating 20 years of growth and expanding its membership to include countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, these splits threaten to impede its future influence. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin are among leaders meeting in India to address these issues.

40/100

The USS George Washington, carrying 5,000 personnel and fighter jets, is central to the U.S. military's operations in the Iran war, stationed in the Arabian Sea near the Strait of Hormuz. A CBS News crew observed nighttime missions supporting the U.S. blockade against Iran and protecting commercial vessels. The deployment comes as U.S. military sources report low interceptor and precision weapon supplies, and Iran-backed Houthi militants threaten a second critical oil route, prompting Saudi Arabia to seek U.S. intervention.

20/100

General Dan Caine, then Chief of Weapons and Tactics for the 121st Fighter Squadron, recounted the rapid military mobilization on 9/11, realizing the nation was under attack after the second plane hit the World Trade Center. He received orders to scramble jets to defend Washington D.C., with "very liberal" rules of engagement, including the possibility of shooting down commercial airliners. Caine praised the Flight 93 passengers for their courage in thwarting an attack on the capital, highlighting their selfless actions as the first to fight back.

40/100

Members of Parliament in England and Wales have voted against a bill aimed at legalizing assisted dying for terminally ill adults, effectively ending the latest legislative attempt. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which included safeguards like requiring two doctors' approval, failed by a narrow margin of 286 to 270 votes. Opponents argued the bill lacked sufficient protections for vulnerable individuals, while supporters expressed sadness for those denied choice, vowing to reintroduce legislation.

30/100

Some firefighters, like Pasadena Captain David Marquez, claim glutathione, a naturally produced antioxidant, has alleviated severe health symptoms after toxic smoke exposure. However, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has issued a rare warning, citing a lack of large-scale research on its safety and efficacy, concerns over purity, and potential contaminants. While anecdotal evidence suggests benefits, the union emphasizes unknown long-term effects and the need for rigorous scientific trials before widespread use.

40/100

After nearly 30 years as a prominent television judge, 83-year-old Judy Sheindlin is retiring from on-camera work, passing her gavel to her son, Judge Adam Levy. Sheindlin will focus on other projects, including an animated series and producing Levy's new syndicated court TV show, "Adam's Law." Sheindlin expressed contentment with her career, which spanned "Judge Judy" and "Judy Justice," as CBS prepares a 30th-anniversary special in her honor.

75/100

A 65-year-old California woman, Vicky Kyung Mi Kim, has been arrested and charged with murder for allegedly fatally wounding her husband with a flagpole. Deputies responded to a call in Palm Desert, finding the victim with traumatic injuries. Court documents reveal Kim had a history of domestic violence, including a guilty plea in January for battery and corporal injury against her spouse, and violating a protective order.

5/100

Sweden's general election is a close contest between left- and right-wing blocs, with current Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson indicating cabinet positions for his hard-right allies, the Sweden Democrats (SD), if he retains power. Polls show a narrow lead for the left-wing Social Democrats, but the anti-immigration SD, founded by Nazi sympathizers, has become the second-largest party, influencing policy and potentially entering government for the first time. The prospect of SD ministers is a significant factor, potentially swaying some center-right voters.

30/100

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has officially declared the end of a massive cyclosporiasis outbreak that sickened nearly 13,000 people across 21 states, causing 570 hospitalizations and two deaths. The outbreak was linked to processed iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, which issued a voluntary recall. While the immediate risk has passed, the FDA continues to investigate the source of contamination, with officials noting that identifying such sources remains a significant challenge in public health.

65/100

On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, US presidents past and present, including Donald Trump and George W. Bush, led commemorations across the nation, with moments of silence and names of nearly 3,000 victims read aloud. Tributes included the "Tribute in Light" in Manhattan and a seventh bell rung for thousands who died from 9/11-related illnesses. The article also highlights a 9/11 widow's criticism of Saudi Arabia and the enduring impact of the attacks on US foreign policy, particularly concerning Iran.

40/100

A new pilot scheme is providing blind parents with tactile 3D models of their baby scans, enabling a more inclusive and tangible experience of pregnancy. Reece Finnegan-Knight, blind since his teens, shared his profound connection to the 3D model, feeling it made his unborn baby "more real." This innovation, alongside advancements like screen-reader accessible maternity apps, is transforming the parenting journey for visually impaired individuals, offering greater independence and involvement in prenatal care.

90/100

Sony's upcoming PlayStation 5 exclusive, Marvel's Wolverine, is a Pegi-18 rated game, a departure from Insomniac's family-friendly Spider-Man titles, embracing blood, gore, and violence. This linear action game focuses on intense combat and strong performances, particularly from veteran actor Troy Baker. While the mature rating reduces its potential audience and the game doesn't "reinvent the wheel" like Spider-Man, its director believes it's the only authentic way to portray the character, and early reception suggests the gamble may pay off.

70/100

Europol warns of increasingly brazen museum thefts across Europe, with high-value items like precious metals and gemstones targeted, often using forceful tactics. Art detective Arthur Brand notes that museums are vulnerable due to historic buildings, budget constraints, and less stringent access control compared to banks. The Louvre heist last year appears to have inspired copycat crimes, prompting museums to seek better integrated security systems and guard training, while balancing accessibility with protection against sophisticated criminals.

20/100

The "Up" series, a groundbreaking British documentary that has followed 14 individuals since they were seven years old in 1964, concludes with its final installment, "70 Up." Directed by the late Michael Apted for decades, the series explored the impact of Britain's class system on individual lives, evolving into a profound study of human experience. Despite some participants' initial reluctance and clashes with Apted, the series is celebrated for its unique longitudinal perspective and its ability to resonate deeply with audiences.

70/100

The Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, continues to draw visitors who honor the 40 passengers and crew who died on September 11, 2001. Gordon Felt, whose brother Edward was aboard, emphasizes the story of heroism: passengers bravely stormed the cockpit, preventing terrorists from reaching an intended target, likely the U.S. Capitol. This act of self-sacrifice is remembered as a moment when "the good guys won," inspiring gratitude and a lasting legacy of courage.

50/100

The CIA has released 71 declassified intelligence reports, including President's Daily Briefs, offering new insights into the agency's awareness of al Qaeda and Osama bin Laden's intentions before the 9/11 attacks. These documents, dating back to 1998, reveal warnings about bin Laden's pursuit of WMDs, his desire to strike the U.S. on its own soil, and even a September 1998 memo about flying an "explosive-packed airplane into a US city." The release, marking the 25th anniversary, underscores the extent of pre-attack intelligence.

35/100

The UK is anticipating a warm and muggy weekend, with temperatures expected to climb into the mid-20s Celsius in southern England, several degrees above the September average. However, despite the summer-like conditions, nowhere is expected to meet the official heatwave criteria of three consecutive days above specific temperature thresholds. The forecast also includes outbreaks of heavy rain and potential thunderstorms, with cooler conditions anticipated to return by midweek.

70/100

Mingma Gyalje Sherpa led a perilous mission to recover the body of his friend, famed mountaineer Nirmal "Nims" Purja, and other climbers, after an avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak. Purja, known for his "14 Peaks" documentary, and fellow climber Kili Pemba Sherpa were among those swept away. The recovery, complicated by unstable slopes and further avalanches, was a deeply emotional and challenging endeavor for Mingma G, who reflected on the profound loss and the potential end of his own climbing career.

10/100

Reform UK has received an unprecedented £36 million donation from British cryptocurrency billionaire Ben Delo, marking the largest single donation ever to a UK political party. Delo stated his intention to ensure a "fair fight" in politics, with the sum given upfront to preempt any future limits on large donations. This significant financial boost comes as Reform UK faces police investigations into alleged foreign funding law breaches and scrutiny over other donations, which the party denies.

50/100

Ohio Republican Senator Jon Husted has dismissed his political director, Stephen Woytek, after discovering Woytek used a photo of Nazi SS soldiers as his Facebook profile picture and followed a military re-enactment group portraying the 1st SS Panzer division. Woytek, who also created a Spotify playlist with pro-Rhodesia songs, expressed regret, denying negative intent and claiming participation in re-enactments for educational purposes. This incident follows other controversies involving young Republicans expressing pro-Nazi sympathies online.

10/100

Marian Fontana, a 9/11 widow, reflects on 25 years since losing her firefighter husband, Dave, and the ongoing journey of grief and remembrance. She and her son choose private commemorations, such as visiting the beach, to honor Dave's memory. After decades of focusing on her son and giving back to the 9/11 community, Marian is now dedicating time to her own well-being, returning to theater, writing, and launching a podcast featuring first responders' accounts.

55/100

Anti-migrant activists in the UK, led by Danny Thomas (Danny Tommo) and his group Patriot Platform, are employing new, coordinated tactics, including blocking roads and staging intimidating shows of strength. These methods, some borrowed from environmental groups like Just Stop Oil, were seen in a recent Dover protest where men in balaclavas chanted "Christ is King" and "Stop the Boats." The group aims to build a working-class "voting bloc" and is reportedly influenced by U.S. "Christian nationalism," raising concerns among anti-racism groups.

15/100

US President Donald Trump is scheduled for a two-day visit to Ireland, including meetings with Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheál Martin, and attendance at the Amgen Irish Open at his Doonbeg golf course. Irish authorities have planned a major security operation as thousands are expected to protest in Dublin and Doonbeg. President Connolly, a vocal Gaza activist, is under pressure to raise Middle East issues with Trump, highlighting potential diplomatic tensions amid the visit.

50/100

Alexander Zverev secured his spot in the US Open final, defeating Karen Khachanov 6-3, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (6) in a tense semi-final match. This marks Zverev's third consecutive Grand Slam final appearance, following his French Open title and Wimbledon final this year. Despite Khachanov's efforts, Zverev's strong serve and consistent groundstrokes proved decisive. He will now compete for his second career Grand Slam title, having not dropped a set since his first two rounds.

85/100

California has exhausted its current license plate sequence, which began in 1980, prompting the introduction of a new configuration: three numerals, followed by three letters, then one numeral (e.g., "000AAA0"). While the new plates are being produced, over 110,000 plates from the old sequence remain to be issued. This change, expected to last 40 years, is a significant administrative update for the state, with license plates manufactured by inmates at Folsom State Prison.

70/100

The Trump administration is providing significant intelligence and targeting assistance to Saudi Arabia but currently has no plans for direct military strikes against Iran-backed Houthi militants. This stance comes despite Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's requests for U.S. intervention amid escalating Houthi threats to Red Sea shipping lanes and attacks on Saudi oil refineries. U.S. officials emphasize protecting national security interests like freedom of navigation while empowering regional partners to manage security challenges.

40/100

Leading Chinese artificial intelligence firms declined to meet a US congressional advisory body during a recent Beijing visit, fearing potential US sanctions. Randy Schriver, chairman of the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC), noted that companies worried about being added to the entities list if they engaged. This highlights the chilling effect of US sanctions on bilateral tech relations, even as the USCC emphasized the importance of ongoing AI dialogue between Washington and Beijing.

30/100

CNBC's Jim Cramer noted that falling oil prices briefly boosted the stock market, but warned that the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting poses the next major test for investors. He highlighted the Iran war as a key variable, with peace potentially lowering oil prices and inflation, while renewed fighting could cause a spike. Cramer advised investors to be selective and avoid margin, as another potential rate hike from the Fed could make an already challenging investment environment even tougher. (not investment advice)

45/100

A former CIA officer, David Rush, accused of stealing over $40 million in gold bars and $2 million in foreign currency from the agency, has reached a tentative plea agreement with federal prosecutors. Rush, who allegedly falsified his credentials and set up a fake classified program to request the valuables, was fired and arrested in May. The plea deal, which is still being finalized, aims to resolve the matter before indictment, conserving government resources.

30/100

The World Athletics Ultimate Championship launched with an innovative format in Budapest, featuring a visually striking arena and record prize money. Pole vault star Armand Duplantis dominated his event, securing the inaugural champion title and a $150,000 prize, though he narrowly missed setting a new world record. The three-day event, designed to shape the sport's future, showcased global stars and aimed to captivate audiences with light shows, dramatic music, and augmented reality displays.

80/100