AP

A former grand mufti named Ahmad Badreddine Hassoun was sentenced to life in prison by a court in Damascus. He was convicted of inciting violence and justifying murder due to his support for government policies under Bashar Assad’s rule. Judge Fakhreddine al-Aryan, head of the Fourth Criminal Court, stated that the official religious establishment violated international humanitarian law.

Iran's rial currency reached a new record low of 2 million to the dollar during morning trading. This news report was sourced from Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

This gallery showcases today’s top photos, which were chosen by Associated Press photo editors. The collection includes coverage ranging from front page news to powerful moments that readers may have missed.

Russian and Ukrainian attacks resulted in multiple casualties across both countries. In Ukraine, recent strikes included an attack on a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih that killed 16 people. Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone attacks hit Russia’s Krasnodar region, killing two children and wounding two adults.

Zolani Tete was shot and killed at his home in South Africa. Gayton McKenzie, minister of sports, arts and culture, reported that Tete was ambushed by two armed suspects while arriving at his residence in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. A woman traveling with Tete was also shot multiple times and is currently hospitalized.

The United States was set to impose 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian products after failed negotiations over trade. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that Canada declined to finalize the deal despite a comprehensive offer, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney deemed the proposed U.S. terms unfair and uneconomic.

The United States is set to impose 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. This action occurs after historic allies failed to reach a last-ditch deal regarding trade.

Buckle Inc. reported a fiscal second-quarter profit of $44.4 million, alongside a net income of 87 cents per share. The teen clothing retailer posted revenue of $319.8 million during the period. However, Buckle shares have decreased 20% since the beginning of the year and 23% in the last 12 months.

Walmart reported a strong second quarter with comparable sales up 2.6% and adjusted per share earnings topping Wall Street expectations. However, its outlook remains reserved, partly influenced by federal legislation requiring pharmacies to adjust high-cost drug prices. The retailer noted that gains in market share were primarily coming from wealthy households.

Aurora Mobile Ltd., a company based in Shenzhen, China, reported a profit of $284,000 during its second quarter. The provider of mobile data services posted revenue totaling $14.9 million for the period. On a per-share basis, the company recorded profits of 6 cents, with adjusted earnings at 7 cents.

An American student named Nguyen Thi Quynh Tam alleges she was raped in Vietnam while on a group trip near Hanoi. After seeking assistance from U.S. officials, Vietnamese authorities charged the 23-year-old man with rape in accordance with Vietnamese law. The incident and subsequent legal action mark an unusual public discussion of sexual violence in Vietnam.

NetEase Inc. reported a net income of $1.03 billion and posted revenue of $4.44 billion during its second quarter. The company stated that the profit stood at $1.60 per share, with adjusted earnings coming to $1.77 per share.

Russia launched a massive nighttime aerial attack using missiles and drones against Kyiv and the surrounding region of Ukraine, killing at least 14 people and wounding about 40. The assault caused hits across 28 locations, straining air defenses which are limited by low international stockpiles of weapons like Patriot interceptors. The violence has put neighboring countries, including Poland, on alert.

South Korea's Yonhap news agency reports that North Korea has fired an unidentified projectile off of its east coast. The report was issued from Seoul, South Korea.

The Baltimore Orioles expressed frustration after Pete Alonso’s deep fly ball during a game against the New York Yankees was ruled foul, a decision that was upheld on review. Alonso, Manager Craig Albernaz, and pitcher Chris Bassitt all called for technological improvements to determine if a batted ball was fair or foul. Bassitt suggested these missing technologies are unavailable because they would cost money.

An AP investigation revealed how banned goods are being smuggled into Gaza, involving millions of dollars changing hands. The article notes that the smuggling of items restricted by Israel into Gaza has boomed.

Japan reported record exports and imports in July, though its trade deficit totaled 634.5 billion yen for the third straight month. While strong auto and semiconductor exports boosted revenue, soaring energy costs due to the war in Iran and a weak yen extended the deficit.

Analog Devices Inc. reported fiscal third-quarter earnings of $1.34 billion, with adjusted per-share earnings reaching $3.45, surpassing Wall Street expectations. The company also posted revenue of $4.02 billion for the period, which topped analyst forecasts from Zacks Investment Research. For the upcoming fiscal fourth quarter, Analog Devices expects revenue to range between $4.2 billion and $4.4 billion.

Target achieved a strong second quarter, driven by several positive factors. These included new merchandise, increased foot traffic, and a substantial $994 million tariff refund.

A heated primary battle is underway for Alaska's single U.S. House seat, featuring incumbent Rep. Nicholas Begich III and independent candidate Bill Hill. The open primary also included multiple candidates from various parties with differing platforms, ranging from resource development to support for tax cuts. Key issues highlighted include the status of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and balancing Second Amendment rights with other economic priorities.

The United States and Canada reached a deal that delayed the proposed 50% US tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian imports. Donald Trump posted late Tuesday confirming that he had paused the tariffs based on the fact that Canada and the U.S.A., subject to finalization, have a DEAL! The agreement avoids another strain in relations between the two historic allies.

The United States and Canada are currently engaged in intensive negotiations to prevent Donald Trump from imposing 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian products. This effort comes amid tensions driven by Trump's tariff agenda, which marks a departure from the two allied nations' traditionally cooperative relationship. Both countries are seeking an off ramp while negotiating key issues such as critical minerals access and trade relief for commodities like steel and softwood lumber.

A powerful earthquake struck Flores on the Indonesian island, killing at least 70 people and injuring nearly 1,200 others. More than 40,000 people were left displaced following widespread destruction across the region, including damage to homes and numerous facilities. Authorities are providing psychosocial support in evacuation centers to help children cope with trauma and fear.

Baidu Inc. reported second-quarter net income of $342 million and revenue of $4.62 billion. The web search company stated its adjusted earnings were $1.06 per share, while the net income was 85 cents per share. Despite strong earnings, Baidu Inc. shares have dropped 20% since the beginning of the year.

Police reported that at least two people were hit during a shooting incident. The event took place at a high school located in the southern Philippines.

Thousands of people are awaiting aid following a powerful earthquake in Indonesia. This situation was reported by AP from REO, Indonesia.

An American tourist was killed by a lightning strike while hiking on Sicily’s Mount Etna, according to Italian firefighters. The incident took place in an area that had been closed to visitors due to ongoing volcanic activity. Authorities have since closed vast areas of the volcano's slope.

Ukraine's state energy company, Naftogaz Group, reported that Russia attacked its facilities 13 times over the past week, targeting premises almost 300 times since the year began. The conflict involves severe military action, with Russian forces hitting urban targets and causing high civilian death tolls across Ukraine. Despite facing shortages of U.S.-made Patriot air defense interceptors, Ukraine is enhancing its firepower by developing a domestic ballistic missile and successfully targeting distant facilities in Russia.

Ukraine launched one of its largest aerial attacks of the conflict. The attack resulted in the death of at least six people across Russia.

Police have arrested a 19-year-old individual in connection with a shooting incident at Virginia State University. This event resulted in five people being injured.

Taliban officials and supporters marked five years since their return to power with gatherings and street celebrations in Kabul. These events took place following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Taliban officials and supporters held gatherings and street celebrations in Kabul to mark five years since their return to power. These commemorations took place following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The death toll from an earthquake off the coast of Indonesia has risen to 38. The report was filed by AP in Maumere, Indonesia.

European countries are grappling with multiple wildfires fueled by record heat and extreme drought, an event linked to human-caused climate change. Significant blazes struck France in regions like Landes and near Bordeaux, forcing numerous evacuations. Other incidents included West Midlands fires in the U.K., devastating homes in Stourbridge, and struggles in Germany complicated by World War II munitions.

Multiple wildfires have flared across France, central England, Germany, and Croatia due to a wave of record-breaking heat gripping Europe. These extreme temperatures led to massive evacuations in areas like Luglon and Gey, while firefighting efforts were complicated by factors such as unexploded World War II munitions. The report links these severe weather events to human-caused climate change.

A US missionary kidnapped in Niger has been released after being held captive for nine months. This news was reported by the missionary’s organization.

As injuries and deaths involving e-bikes surge among children, officials are responding with various measures, including California prosecutors pursuing charges against parents and New Jersey requiring specific licenses for riders. Experts warn that these two-wheeled machines can cause more severe injuries than traditional bicycles, especially when youth are unhelmeted.

Melco Resorts and Entertainment Ltd. (MLCO) reported its second quarter earnings while based in Hong Kong. The company stated it posted revenue of $1.25 billion, generating a net income of 6 cents per share, resulting in total earnings of $22.7 million.

Birkenstock reported a fiscal third-quarter profit of $127.4 million and revenue of $836.5 million, exceeding street forecasts. However, the company's adjusted earnings per share came in at 86 cents, which fell short of the average analyst estimate of 87 cents per share. Birkenstock anticipates full-year earnings between $2.21 to $2.38 per share and revenue between $2.67 billion to $2.73 billion.

For 30 minutes, Taiwan slowed its mobile web traffic to text-only speeds in parts of Taipei and six other cities as part of the annual Han Kuang exercises. These military drills aim to model a response to a possible Chinese military invasion, prompting President Lai Ching-te to apologize while stressing the drill's necessity. The exercises are part of Taiwan's increased defense efforts amid heightened tensions with China.