Thousands of Muslim pilgrims began to leave the holy city of Mecca on Friday after having completed the hajj pilgrimage in scorching heat and despite the shadow of war across the Middle East, AFP reported.

Colombians vote with peace, economy on agenda

BOGOTA (Reuters) – Colombians are set to vote on ‌Sunday in what is likely the first round of a presidential election, amid deep polarization between those seeking continuity with the leftist government and those pushing for a shift to restore security and economic growth.

WHO: 906 suspected Ebola cases, 223 suspected deaths

GENEVA (Reuters) – The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday that there are 906 suspected cases of ‌Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including 223 suspected deaths that are being investigated.

France in tough W. Cup group test

PARIS — Winners in 2018 and runners-up in 2022, France arrive at this World Cup as one of the leading contenders, but the planet’s top-ranked team face stiff tests against Senegal and Norway in Group I, which also features outsiders Iraq.

Messi faces final W. Cup challenge

LONDON — Lionel Messi will turn 39 during the upcoming World Cup and could have been forgiven for quitting international football after leading Argentina to glory in Qatar in 2022, but he remains his country’s talisman as they aim to retain the trophy in North America.

Egypt’s cancer screening initiative reaches 18m citizens

More than 18.1 million citizens aged 18 and over have benefited from Egypt’s presidential initiative for the early detection of lung, prostate, colon, and cervical cancers since its launch in June 2023, the Ministry of Health announced on Friday.

Argentina pursues W. Cup title repeat

PARIS — Holders Argentina arrive at the World Cup aiming to become the first team in more than half a century to successfully defend their title.

Evans leads Japan rally opener

TOKYO — Toyota filled the top four places after the opening leg of the manufacturer’s home Rally Japan on Friday, with world championship leader Elfyn Evans 15.7 seconds clear of teammate Oliver Solberg.