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More than 80 Palestinians killed across Gaza as truce talks begin

Israeli attacks across Gaza have killed at least 82 people as negotiations between Israel and Hamas towards a ceasefire deal begin in Qatar.

On Sunday, at least 39 people were killed in Gaza City alone. A midnight attack on the Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood in the region also trapped victims under debris.

Witnesses have described apocalyptic scenes as neighbours retrieve body parts, including those of children.

Mahmoud al-Sheikh Salama, a survivor of one strike, said it took place at 2am (23:00 GMT on Saturday) while he was sleeping.

“We heard a loud explosion and shortly after, another one. We rushed over… and people were trapped under the rubble – four families, a large number of residents,” he told Al Jazeera.

“We tried to search for survivors and managed to pull out two people alive from under the debris after about three hours of struggle and breaking through. We got two out alive – the rest were martyred and are still trapped. ”

Reporting from Gaza City, Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud said Israel’s current military escalation in Gaza is “a chilling and brutal reminder” of the opening weeks of the war because of the intensity and scale of each attack.

“In the span of two hours, we have counted at least seven air strikes across the Gaza Strip,” he said.

“A local community kitchen in the northern part of Deir el-Balah was also struck and three people were killed, including the main operator behind it. ”

Attacks near aid sites

Besides Gaza City, medical sources at hospitals told Al Jazeera that at least nine Palestinians were killed by Israeli army fire near aid distribution centres operated by the US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) since the morning.

Five were killed near the Netzarim Corridor, located just south of Gaza City, which splits the Strip down the middle. The Palestinian Ministry of Health said Israeli forces killed at least 743 Palestinians in attacks at sites run by the GHF since late May.

The GHF has drawn widespread criticism, with multiple reports that its contractors, as well as Israeli forces, have opened fire on desperate aid seekers. Two American contractors were wounded with non-life-threatening injuries on Saturday during an attack on an aid site.

“The attack – which preliminary information indicates was carried out by two assailants who threw two grenades at the Americans – occurred at the conclusion of an otherwise successful distribution in which thousands of Gazans safely received food,” the GHF said.

The United States on Saturday blamed Hamas for the attack. Gaza’s Government Media Office rejected these accusations.

“We categorically and unequivocally reject the claims issued by the US State Department alleging that the Palestinian resistance threw explosives at American personnel operating at sites run by the so-called ‘Gaza Humanitarian Foundation – GHF,’” the media office said in a statement.

Possible ceasefire?

Meanwhile, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas towards a ceasefire deal in the Gaza Strip have begun in Qatar.

“Negotiations are about implementation mechanisms and hostage exchange, and positions are being exchanged through mediators,” an unnamed official told the AFP news agency.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that there is “a good chance” a Gaza captive release and ceasefire deal could be reached with Hamas this week, “as they’re close”.

Trump told reporters such a deal meant “quite a few hostages” could be released. Trump is set to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at the White House.

The US president said last week that Israel has agreed to the conditions for a 60-day ceasefire, and negotiators could meet to carve out a path to finally end Israel’s nearly 21-month war on Gaza.

On Friday, Hamas said it responded to a US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal in a “positive spirit”.

On Sunday, before boarding his flight to Washington, DC, Netanyahu also said he believed his discussions with Trump on Monday would help advance talks on a Gaza deal.

“I believe the discussion with President Trump can certainly help advance these results,” he said, adding that he is determined to ensure the return of captives held in Gaza and remove the threat of Hamas to Israel.

Analysts, however, say that Netanyahu wants to continue the retaliatory war on Gaza until he can gain enough political leverage to dismiss the court cases against him in Israel and build enough popular support to remain the country’s leader.

Netanyahu is on trial for corruption and is still widely blamed in Israeli society for the security failures that led to Hamas’s deadly attack on October 7, 2023.

“Israel and Netanyahu are not interested in reaching a ceasefire,” Adnan Hayajneh, a professor of international relations at Qatar University, told Al Jazeera, adding that there is a “very slim chance” of a ceasefire.

“What Israel wants is clear… a land without a people,” Hayajneh said.

I Never Worked In Any Govt Before Becoming Governor – Peter Obi

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Opposition figure Peter Obi says he never worked with any government before becoming the governor of Anambra State in 2006.

He said this while clarifying the rumour that he served under the regime of former military dictator Sani Abacha. Obi was a guest on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme.

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election said that he was a successful businessman before venturing into politics.

He narrated how, as an entrepreneur, he and other businessmen met with Abacha over port congestion, and they were later co-opted into a committee to decongest the port.

READ ALSO:  I’m In Labour Party, Working With Coalition Not Anti-Party Activity — Peter Obi

“I have never worked for any government before becoming governor. I was a very successful businessman, and everybody knows that. I built my business from scratch,” Obi said.

“As a businessman, I was also part of those who were controlling trade in Lagos then. There was a time during Abacha’s government, and it even happened during Obasanjo’s government. When Abacha took over, all ports closed, so they came out with a policy that caused congestion in our ports, even in the airports, goods were not cleared, goods were not being exported and everything.

“And some of us felt we needed to go and see the head of state then, or at least the Minister of Finance. So, we came to Abuja, a few of us. We had an audience with the minister of finance and the head of state, and we were able to elucidate the problem we were facing.

Zayn Malik recalls the racism he experienced at height of One Direction fame

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Zayn Malik has addressed the racism he experienced during his time in One Direction in a teaser for his new single labelled Fuchsia Sea, as he shared a few lyrics on Instagram

The 32-year-old British singer gave fans a first listen to the new track on Saturday(Image: Instagram/ @zayn)

In a preview of his upcoming song, Fuchsia Sea, Zayn Malik has addressed the racism he experienced during his time in One Direction. The 32-year-old British singer gave fans a first listen to the new track on Saturday along with a short video.

Zayn shot to fame as a member of One Direction, performing alongside Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and the late Liam Payne. They skyrocketed into fame after appearing on X-Factor in 2010 before he parted ways in 2015.

In the new song, Zayn raps: ‘Got my back against the wall so much they think I got a brick fascination. Do you remember every conversation? ‘Cause I have been conscious of every connotation. And while they concentrate on their elevation, I’ve got a round trip to the constellation. I’m a convert to the concert, and I did that for inflation, ’cause I worked hard in a White band, and they still laughed at the Asian. ”

In a preview of his upcoming song, Fuchsia Sea, Zayn Malik addressed experiencing racism
In a preview of his upcoming song, Fuchsia Sea, Zayn Malik addressed experiencing racism (Image: WWD via Getty Images)

The singer shared a snippet of the song on Instagram, along with a video where he has his back to the camera as he is walking down a corridor. He also typed the lyrics in an Instagram story.

The father-of-one, who shares four-year-old daughter Khai with ex-girlfriend Gigi Hadid, has also addressed racism in music in the past. In a leaked song called Yellow Metal (Cathartic), Zayn wrote the lyrics: “Said I had a problem with hittin’ the kids that would call me paki, still sittin’ in classroom chillin’, I’m angry now that I’m older ’cause I see they treat us different, Got me thinking I’m the problem ’cause they never dealt with these issues”.

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The singer also wrote: “Twenty years later, I’m still in the same boat, tryna treat me like my grandpa, say I came up off the boat. ”

Zayn shot to fame as a member of One Direction, performing alongside Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and the late Liam Payne
Zayn shot to fame as a member of One Direction, performing alongside Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and the late Liam Payne(Image: Getty Images)

5 years after One Direction was formed via The X Factor in 2010, Zayn decided to go his separate ways and said he wanted to be a ‘normal’ 22-year-old’ and take some time away from the spotlight.

He announced the news via the group’s Facebook page and wrote: “I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band,’ he said in a statement.

Zayn added: “I’d like to apologize to the fans if I’ve let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart. I am leaving because I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight. I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. ”

5 years after One Direction was formed via The X Factor in 2010, Zayn decided to go his separate ways
5 years after One Direction was formed via The X Factor in 2010, Zayn decided to go his separate ways (Image: Instagram/ @zayn)

Elsewhere in Zayn’s life, he previously opened up about his daughter Khai and said that she ‘brought him back to life’.

Speaking on the Zach Sang Show, he said: “I feel like my daughter brought that colour back in my life. She just makes me happy. I have so much love in me that I didn’t have before she was born.

“She laughs all day. She wants to do the silliest things and she gains so much excitement from it. She just has a whole fresh perspective on life that had somewhat become grey for me. “

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Zayn continued: “She’s a force of nature. She’s given me maturity. She’s forced my sensibility to become this mature father for her, this good responsible role model that takes accountability for their actions and sticks to their work and proves that my word is bond. “

Justin Bieber sparks concern with worrying ‘detox’ photo as fans say ‘that’s not okay’

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Canadian singer Justin Bieber has raised concern among fans after posting cryptic ‘detox’ images on Instagram, amid reports of personal struggles and tension in his marriage to wife Hailey

Justin Bieber has left fans unsettled after uploading a series of cryptic photos on Instagram, hinting at a ‘detox’ while rumours of tension in his marriage to Hailey Bieber continue to swirl.

On Sunday, the 31-year-old pop star shared five photos with the caption: “Detoxxxxxxxxxxx. ” Four images showed extreme close-ups of his sweat-drenched face with a towel draped over his head. He appeared to force a slight smirk, which further prompted fans to question his well-being.

The final photo in the set showed a Honda CRV on a highway with European license plates and a 100 km/h speed sign, adding more confusion to the post.

While Justin offered no explanation, many interpreted the word “detox” to reference a wellness cleanse or possible emotional reset. Detoxes are often associated with cutting out harmful substances, stress relief, or fasting. They can also include saunas, juice fasts, or supplements, though it is still unclear what form of detox Justin is undertaking.

Justin Bieber has left fans unsettled after uploading a series of cryptic photos on Instagram
Justin Bieber has left fans unsettled after uploading a series of cryptic photos on Instagram(Image: lilbieber/instagram)

Concerned followers quickly flooded the comments. One fan wrote: “Dear Justin, as a Canadian mama please do not go down the Britney Spears road. You are a smart, talented, loving young man and you are being steered down the wrong path by people who do not care about you.”

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The social media user went on: “Come home for a while, come back to Canada. Go rent a cottage in lake country with your wife, son, and family that care for you while you focus on your mental health and physical health. You are a good kid who deserves better than you are allowing yourself. ”

The emotional post comes amid speculation of mounting pressure behind the scenes. A source recently told Us Weekly: “Justin’s been a hard person to deal with recently because of what he’s going through. It’s been really hard on her [Hailey]. ”

Fans are deeply worried for Justin
Fans are deeply worried for Justin(Image: lilbieber/instagram)

Another insider said: “Justin’s going through a difficult time, and Hailey is giving him room to get himself back on track. He’s doing his best, but it’s tough. ”

Although Hailey recently sold her Rhode Beauty brand to e. l. f. for $1 billion, staying on as chief creative officer, reports claim family pressures have dimmed the milestone.

Still, insiders insist the couple remains committed. “They don’t talk about divorce,” said one source, while another added: “Faith is a big part of their life. They believe they are soulmates and meant for each other. They’ll do anything to make it work. ”

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Durant joins Houston in record-setting NBA trade

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NBA star Kevin Durant has joined the Houston Rockets from the Phoenix Suns in a record-breaking trade deal involving seven teams.

The move was first announced last month but was confirmed on Sunday when the league’s new year officially started.

The Atlanta Hawks, the Brooklyn Nets, the Golden State Warriors, the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers are also involved in the deal, which involves 13 players and several future draft picks being exchanged.

The previous record for the largest trade in NBA history was six teams, set last summer when Klay Thompson joined the Dallas Mavericks.

Durant, 36, was named the 2014 Most Valuable Player, won two NBA titles with the Golden State Warriors, and is a 15-time All-Star.

He also won four Olympic golds with the US basketball team.

“My time in Phoenix has come to an end,” he posted on social media.

“All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remember it’s a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players.

“I truly believe this NBA is a one big community. Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can’t Wait! “

Rockets head coach Ime Udoka said: “His skill level, love of basketball, and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected players of his generation, and my staff and I are excited to work with him. “

Houston finished second in the Western Conference last season but were knocked out of the play-offs in the first round.

“One of the greatest to ever play the game, we are grateful for the impact Kevin made on our organization and in our community,” Phoenix general manager Brian Gregory said.

Who gets what in the seven-team deal?

Under the deal, Houston get Durant and 31-year-old Swiss centre Clint Capela from Atlanta – he started his career at the Rockets.

From the Rockets, the Suns pick up 18-year-old South Sudanese centre Khaman Maluach, who was the 10th overall pick in June’s NBA draft, as well as forward Dillon Brooks and guard Jalen Green. The Suns also get Atlanta wing Daeqwon Plowden, Minnesota forward Rasheer Fleming and Golden State guard Koby Brea, as well as two future draft picks.

The Hawks, meanwhile, receive David Roddy, cash, and a 2031 draft pick swap from Houston.

Brooklyn obtained two future second-round picks and sent a draft pick, forward Adou Thiero, to the Lakers.

The Warriors obtained Australian forward Alex Toohey, who was initially drafted by the Suns, and guard Jahmai Mashack, the last pick in the draft for the Rockets.

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Mel B’s olive branch for Geri as she plans second ceremony after lavish London wedding

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Spice Girls icon Mel B and Rory McPhee recently tied the knot at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London on Saturday afternoon, but three of the singer’s former bandmates weren’t in attendance

Mel B and new husband Rory McPhee plan second ceremony after London wedding(Image: PA)

Melanie Brown, better known as Mel B, recently tied the knot with long-term partner, Rory McPhee, at an intimate ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London this weekend. They said their ‘I dos’ at the venue after their three-year engagement. Mel and family friend Rory, 37, have known each other for years, and he has worked as her hairstylist.

Things are thought to have turned romantic between the pair in 2018 and Rory proposed to Mel back in 2022. While fans were eager to spot fellow Spice Girls in attendance, only Emma Bunton, 49, was photographed at the event. As Mel C couldn’t attend, she took to her Instagram page to pay tribute to her pal.

READ MORE: Oasis have released new tickets for UK tour – how to buy yours if you missed out

Mel B and Rory McPhee walking out the cathedral after wedding
Mel B and Rory McPhee got married on Saturday(Image: GC Images)

Meanwhile, Geri Horner was noticeably absent as Mel tied the knot with fiancé Rory. Geri also chose not to post any well wishes to Mel B on social media, adding further fuel to the fire on their rift.

It’s said Mel B and her new husband, along with their guests, enjoyed a lavish reception at the Shangri-La at The Shard for drinks, food, followed by an evening filled with dancing.

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Although the couple already enjoyed a ceremony, it has been revealed there will be a second ceremony abroad this summer, which Mel B says will be “more informal, sexy and beautiful”. It will act as a second chance for Mel’s former bandmates to celebrate her marriage.

She told The Sun: “In one incredible afternoon I found two perfect dresses. One beautiful classic dress by Josephine Scott, a British designer, and one stunning dramatic dress by a US designer, Justin Alexander. ”

Mel B and Rory McPhee
The couple are planning a second ceremony(Image: instagram.com/officialmelb)

Meanwhile, Victoria Beckham, who was notably absent, took a moment to acknowledge Mel’s special day via Instagram. Posting a glamorous throwback of the two bandmates, Victoria captioned it with: “Sending love to you @officialmelb! @rorymcphee is a very lucky man! xx. ”

Mel C, who was also unable to attend, shared her congratulations online. Posting a happy photo of the bride and groom, she wrote: “So so happy for you both and beyond gutted I couldn’t be there. Excited to celebrate with you really soon. Yipee! ”

Scary Spice recently took to Instagram to share a behind-the-scenes image from her special day. Captured from behind in her gown, Mel stood with her back to the camera, revealing the words “Just Married” delicately embroidered on her dress.

Her bridal look featured a gorgeous long veil and pearl embellishments at the collar and cuffs, giving the ensemble a timeless and regal finish.

Her husband Rory, 37, opted for a nod to his heritage, wearing a traditional Scottish kilt.

The happy couple shared a smooch on the steps of the cathedral before leaving the venue in a white, horse-drawn carriage – a fairy-tale moment for the newlyweds.

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Guests followed in true British style, riding to the reception in classic red double-decker Routemaster buses.

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