Global COVID-19 Surges as Chicago Removes Columbus Statues
Nations worldwide report record-breaking daily COVID-19 infections and deaths while Chicago removes controversial Christopher Columbus monuments amid ongoing protests. Meanwhile, Muslims hold Friday prayers at Istanbul's Hagia Sophia following its recent reconversion to a mosque.
Global COVID-19 cases surge dramatically as several nations report record-breaking daily numbers. Hong Kong records 123 new infections with 115 local transmissions, marking a third consecutive day of record highs. India sees a massive spike with 49,310 new cases, while Australia's Victoria state reports seven new deaths, representing its highest single-day death toll.
In the United States, Chicago removes two statues of Christopher Columbus from Grant Park and Arrigo Park. Mayor Lori Lightfoot orders the temporary removals following clashes between police and protesters, noting that the demonstrations pose safety risks. Activists argue that monuments honoring Columbus, who is blamed for the genocide of Indigenous people, do not belong in public spaces.
International developments continue as Muslims hold Friday prayers at Istanbul's historic Hagia Sophia for the first time since the Turkish government reclassifies the building as a mosque. In Iraq, four Katyusha rockets strike the Besmaya Range Complex in Baghdad, where Spanish coalition troops are stationed, causing material damage but resulting in no reported casualties.