South Florida is grappling with the aftermath of severe storms that have caused significant flooding across the region. Following days of torrential rain, residents began cleanup efforts as they prepared for additional rainfall, although it is not expected to reach the levels seen earlier this week. Since Tuesday, storms originating from the Gulf of Mexico have inundated parts of Florida's Everglades, with some areas receiving nearly two feet of rain. The flooding has led to the cancellation or delay of over 900 flights at International and Fort Lauderdale airports, and a state of emergency remains in effect for five counties.

In international news, NATO defense ministers have approved a long-term military training aid plan for Ukraine, aimed at ensuring continued support amid concerns over potential reductions in U.S. assistance. This decision follows remarks from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who stated that Russia is willing to end the conflict in Ukraine, contingent upon Ukraine's withdrawal from NATO membership and the cession of four provinces claimed by Russia. Western leaders have dismissed this proposal as unrealistic and a continuation of aggression.

The annual Hajj pilgrimage has commenced in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, with over two million participants expected. This year's pilgrimage occurs amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, which has prevented Palestinians in Gaza from attending due to border closures.

In a significant acknowledgment, U.S. Catholic bishops have issued an apology to Native American communities for the church's historical role in trauma inflicted on indigenous children, particularly through the operation of boarding schools. This comes in light of recent investigations revealing widespread abuse and the deaths of hundreds of children at these institutions.

Pope Francis made history by addressing G7 leaders, emphasizing the importance of human decision-making in the face of advancing artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department announced it would not prosecute Attorney General Merrick Garland for contempt of Congress, following a House vote regarding his refusal to release certain audio recordings.

In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa has been reelected after a coalition agreement with the opposition party, marking a significant shift in the political landscape as the African National Congress loses its parliamentary majority.

In Florida, demolition has begun on the site of the Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School, where a tragic shooting occurred in 2018, resulting in the deaths of 17 individuals. The building, which had been preserved as evidence, is expected to be fully demolished before the new school year.

On Wall Street, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 38,000.589, while the Nasdaq reached new record highs. Additionally, the U.S. cricket team has advanced to the second round of the T20 World Cup, despite a match cancellation due to the recent heavy rains.