Israeli court annuls parts of surrogacy law excluding gays
Jerusalem: Israel’s Supreme Court on Sunday cleared the way for same-sex couples to have children through surrogate mothers, a move hailed by lawmakers and activists as a victory for LGBTQ rights. The court ruled in 2020 that a surrogacy law, which had expanded access to single women but excluded gay couples, “disproportionately harmed the right to equality and the right to parenthood” and was unlawful. It gave the government a year to draw up a new law, but parliament failed to meet the deadline. The change in the law is to take effect in six months to allow the formation of professional guidelines, the court said. AP
Pope Francis makes first appearance since surgery
Rome: Pope Francis on Sunday made his first public appearance since surgery last week, greeting well-wishers as he stood on a hospital balcony. Francis, 84, has been steadily on the mend, according to the Vatican, following his July 4 scheduled surgery to remove a portion of his large intestine. On Sunday, his voice sounded a bit weak as he greeted a small crowd outside Gemelli Polyclinic at noon. Francis said he “very much felt your closeness and the support of your prayers.” AP
Cup of coffee a day may keep Covid away: Study
New York: Drinking one or more cups of coffee per day was associated with about a 10% decrease in risk of Covid, compared to less than one cup daily, claimed a study. The study, led by researchers from the Northwestern University in the US, also found the consumption of more vegetables, and less processed meats, could cut the risk of Covid infection. Coffee is known to contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. IANS
Two Confederate generals’ statues removed in US city
Washington: Two Confederate generals’ statues were removed from public parks in Charlottesville, almost four years after a deadly far-right rally was held in the US city. Online videos showed a crowd on Saturday gathered to watch machinery lifting the statue of Robert E. Lee from Market Street Park and then the statue of Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson from Court Square Park, reports Xinhua news agency. Charlottesville Mayor Nikuyah Walker spoke at Saturday’s gathering, calling the removal “one small step forward” in an effort to dismantle white supremacy. IANS
