Tapir, toad tadpoles and Trump’s bodyguards: the 2025 Siena awards festival – in pictures

Over the weekend, the United States witnessed a tragic surge in gun violence, with six mass shootings resulting in nine deaths and numerous injuries. This alarming trend highlights the ongoing crisis of gun violence in the country, as the total number of mass shootings this year has now reached 324. The incident at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, where four worshippers lost their lives, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective measures to address this escalating issue.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued an apology to Qatar regarding a recent attack in Doha that violated the country's sovereignty. This gesture is significant as it aims to mend diplomatic relations and address the global backlash that followed the incident. By acknowledging the mistake, Netanyahu is taking a step towards fostering better ties with Qatar and demonstrating a commitment to international norms.

In a significant joint press conference, former President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a new peace plan for Gaza, aiming to foster stability in the region. This collaboration highlights a renewed commitment to addressing long-standing conflicts and could pave the way for improved relations between Israel and Palestine. The release of this plan by the White House signals a proactive approach to peace negotiations, which many hope will lead to a lasting resolution.

Benjamin Netanyahu is facing increasing pressure to accept Donald Trump's plan for Gaza, as global outrage mounts over the ongoing conflict and the demolition of Gaza. While Netanyahu has managed to avoid making significant concessions, the focus remains on Hamas to release Israeli hostages. The situation raises questions about whether Netanyahu's actions, particularly targeting a Hamas delegation in Qatar, could lead to a shift in U.S. policy and an end to the war. This matter is crucial as it affects regional stability and international relations.

The recent announcement by Liberal MP Vince Gasparro regarding the ban of the band Kneecap from Canada has stirred controversy, especially as the band claims they received no prior notice. This situation raises questions about transparency and the decision-making process behind such bans, highlighting the tension between government actions and artistic expression.

The Trump administration's recent decision to allocate $625 million to revive the struggling coal industry has sparked controversy. By opening up 13.1 million acres of public land for coal mining, the administration aims to support a sector that has been in decline for the past three decades. This move is part of a broader initiative involving several government departments, but critics argue it undermines environmental protections and ignores the shift towards renewable energy sources. The implications of this decision could have lasting effects on both the economy and the environment.