Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that a U.S. official assured him the Biden administration is working to expedite arms deliveries to Israel. This comes after Netanyahu criticized the administration for recent delays in weapon shipments. During a press conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken did not confirm the assurances but noted that only one shipment, involving 2,000-pound bombs, is currently under review due to concerns over civilian casualties in the densely populated area of Rafa.

Stoltenberg raised alarms about the increasing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, highlighting Moscow's support for North Korea's missile and nuclear programs. This discussion coincided with Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang, where he was welcomed by Kim Jong Un ahead of their scheduled talks.

In other news, the annual Muslim Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia is concluding amid extreme heat, with temperatures in Mecca reaching 118 degrees Fahrenheit. Reports indicate that hundreds of Egyptians and at least 60 Jordanians have died from heat-related illnesses, yet over 1.8 million pilgrims participated in this year's rituals.

Meanwhile, the U.S. is experiencing widespread extreme heat alerts, affecting regions from Iowa to Maine. Chicago has recorded temperatures nearing 100 degrees, breaking a long-standing heat record. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has mobilized state agencies and the National Guard to assist residents during this heatwave, which is expected to be particularly severe in areas typically known for milder summer weather.

In the West, firefighters are combating multiple wildfires, including one in Colusa County, California, while in New Mexico, thousands have been evacuated due to fires that have damaged over 500 structures. A potential tropical storm is also anticipated to make landfall near Texas, bringing heavy rain and flooding risks.