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Euronews

Israel Launches Operation in Rafah Amid US Warnings

Israel initiated a 'limited' military operation in Rafah on Tuesday, taking control of the vital border crossing with Egypt. This move comes despite a stark warning from US President Joe Biden, who stated that the US would halt some weapon supplies if Israel proceeded with its planned ground offensive in the area. Amid concerns for civilian safety in Gaza, Biden also reassured that the US would ensure Israel's security continues.

Euronews

Spain Rejects BBVA's Offer for Banco Sabadell

The Spanish government has turned down a merger proposal from Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA) to Banco Sabadell shareholders, thwarting BBVA's plans to consolidate further within Europe's banking sector. BBVA described the offer as highly favorable, proposing one BBVA share for every 4.83 Sabadell shares, a premium based on recent stock prices. This rejection has reignited discussions on banking consolidation across Europe.

Cnn

Japanese Bread Recalled Over Rat Contamination

Pasco Shikishima Corporation, a major Japanese food supplier, has recalled over 100,000 packs of its popular "chojuku" sliced white bread after discovering rat remains in some loaves. This incident adds to a series of food safety issues in Japan, a country known for the reliability of its food exports. The contamination was identified in loaves produced in a factory in western Tokyo. No illnesses have been reported following the consumption of the affected bread.

Bbc.com

Lethal Force Used in Saudi Neom Project

A former intelligence officer, Col Rabih Alenezi, reported that Saudi authorities authorized lethal force to evict villagers for the construction of The Line, a futuristic city part of the $500 billion Neom eco-project. This clearance led to the fatal shooting of a villager who protested the eviction. Both the Saudi government and Neom management have declined to comment on the incident. The Neom project is a centerpiece of Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil.

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Coindesk.com

Memecoin Surges on Unlikely Publicity

The memecoin Jeo Boden (BODEN), humorously named after a misspelling of U.S. President Joe Biden, saw a 25% increase in value following unexpected attention from former President Donald Trump. Trump's response to a fan inquiry about the token provided the kind of publicity that propelled its surge, underscoring the adage that "any publicity is good publicity," even for the most whimsical of digital assets.

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Coindesk.com

Cryptocurrency Trading Volume Dips in April

Cryptocurrency trading volume saw its first decline in seven months this April, falling 43.8% to $6.58 trillion. Factors like increasing geopolitical tensions and reduced inflows into U.S.-listed spot ETFs contributed to the downturn. The derivatives market experienced a significant drop of 47.6%, while the spot market decreased by 32.6%, according to a report from London-based CCData. This pullback marks a sharp retreat from March's record high of $9.12 trillion.

Global Times Filter

China's New Aircraft Carrier Completes Maiden Voyage

China's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has returned from its successful eight-day maiden voyage, a significant milestone in its journey towards commissioning. Equipped with a world-class electromagnetic catapult, the Fujian is set to enhance the capabilities of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy. According to experts, this strategic platform will play a crucial role in safeguarding maritime and aerial security. The PLA Navy announced that the Fujian will undergo further tests as per the planned schedule.... More

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Globaltimes.cn

China and Serbia Forge Closer Ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic have signed a joint statement to establish a community with a shared future, marking Serbia as the first European nation to engage in such a partnership with China. This agreement, signed in Belgrade, aims to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, building on their eight-year relationship. The initiative reflects a mutual strategic choice aimed at enhancing the quality of life for both nations' peoples.

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Cnn

Controversial Apple Ad Sparks Outrage

Apple's latest iPad Pro advertisement has ignited significant backlash after going viral for its contentious content. Released by CEO Tim Cook, the ad showcases a range of creative tools, from a metronome to a piano, placed under a hydraulic press only to be dramatically crushed. This depiction, intended as a metaphor for innovation, has instead led many to express their displeasure on social media, criticizing the ad's message and approach.

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