Wednesday, July 14 2021

*) Scores killed as rioting continues in South Africa At least 100 people are dead and over a thousand arrested in South Africa where rioting continues for a fifth day. Violence, looting, and arson is widespread across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces despite the deployment of soldiers. Protests were initially triggered by the jailing of former president Jacob Zuma, but turned into a riot against inequality and a lack of basic services and supplies. *) Anti-government protests continue in Cuba At least one person has died during anti-government protests in Cuba's capital Havana. Demonstrations against food scarcity, medicine shortages, and a surge in coronavirus cases began on Sunday. The Communist-run country's economy is suffering, but the government says the downturn is because of US sanctions. *) Dozens protests after negligent fire at Iraqi hospital Relatives of those who died in a hospital fire in Iraq have been protesting outside the facility, accusing authorities of negligence. At least 108 people were killed and dozens injured after an oxygen tank exploded and flames engulfed a coronavirus isolation floor of al-Hussein Hospital. At least 13 people have been arrested including the hospital manager and provincial health chief. *) Lebanon police and protesters clash outside minister’s home Police in Lebanon used tear gas and rubber bullets on protesters trying to storm the home of Interior Minister Mohammad Fahmi. The protest was called by relatives of the victims of last year's Beirut port blast, which killed nearly 200 people. They accuse Fahmi of zero accountability and of stalling a probe into the explosion. And finally ... *) Streaming services dominate Emmy nominations This year's Emmy Awards nominations are in, and streaming services are in full control. The Mandalorian and The Crown are tied with 24 nominations each, including Best Drama. Other top contenders include The Boys, The Handmaid's Tale, and Bridgerton. The Emmys will be held on September 29th.