In a significant turn of events, Syrian rebel forces have taken control of Damascus, claiming the swift exit of President Bashar al-Assad. The insurgents' offensive, which also saw the capture of Homs, marks a pivotal moment in the deteriorating conflict. With prominent leaders urging cooperation amongst Syrians, the country stands on the brink of a new governance era as thousands flee in search of safety.

In the backdrop of rising tensions with Israel, Iran faces a potential leadership change. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader, is reportedly in a coma, leading to secret meetings to select his successor. Mojtaba Khamenei, his son, is seen as a likely candidate despite limited experience. This potential change raises concerns of protests due to the undemocratic nature of the succession process, with global eyes on the geopolitical implications.

On July 26, 2024, a coordinated attack on France’s high-speed rail network snarled travel just before the Paris Olympics. The arson attacks at key rail points delayed trains, causing significant disruptions. Officials are investigating, but various theories about who is responsible have emerged.

A circulating video falsely claims that Russian President Vladimir Putin supports protests in Kenya. This article debunks the misinformation, clarifying that Putin has made no such statements. The video misrepresents the President's stance on the issue.

A team of explorers has set off on their ninth mission to the Titanic wreck site in the North Atlantic Ocean. The luxury liner, which famously sank on April 14, 1912, continues to captivate the world as the team balances emotional reflections with the pursuit of new discoveries.

A high court in Kenya has mandated the government to compensate the family of slain Pakistani journalist Arshad Sharif with Ksh.10 million. Sharif was killed in Nairobi on October 23, 2022, in a case initially described as mistaken identity but later suggested as a pre-planned murder. The court upheld that his right to life was violated, questioning police accountability.

In a controversial move, the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced twenty-five soldiers to death for abandoning their posts during fierce clashes with the notorious M23 rebels in the eastern region. The soldiers were also accused of looting local shops. The military court's sweeping verdict reflects the severity of internal challenges and ongoing strife within the region.

In a significant meeting at the Vatican, Catholicos Aram I and Pope Francis tackled critical issues including ecumenical relations, the plight of Armenian prisoners of war, strengthening interfaith coexistence in Lebanon, and the potential for a new Vatican Council with participation from non-Catholic churches.

Malawi's Vice President Saulos Chilima and former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri were among ten people who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash. The military aircraft crashed due to bad weather after failing to land in Mzuzu, leaving no survivors. President Lazarus Chakwera expressed deep sorrow over the loss of these prominent figures.

The city of Rafah in Gaza has become a focal point of international concern as Israel persists with airstrikes despite global condemnation and an ICJ ruling to cease operations. The offensive has led to significant civilian casualties and displacement, sparking worldwide calls for a ceasefire and civilian protection.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a significant two-day visit to China, centered on bolstering trade ties. The trip underscores the deepening bond between Russia and China amid rising international scrutiny, with both nations addressing challenges posed by US sanctions and geopolitical tensions.