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California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement

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California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement

States, like California, are exploring alternative ways to recoup lost gas tax revenue by piloting a “road charge” program that charges drivers based on the number of miles they drive rather than how much gas they purchase. The program is optional and participants can earn up to 0 in incentives for providing feedback on their experience. The state is considering this alternative revenue source due to the decrease in gas tax revenue collection and the shift towards electric vehicles. The program includes security protocols to protect personal information, and no action or changes are currently being proposed.

Cyprus deports migrants in joint operation with FRONTEX

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Cyprus deports migrants in joint operation with FRONTEX

Cypriot authorities, along with Greece and FRONTEX, conducted a forced return flight for migrants residing illegally in Cyprus on May 21. This was the seventh joint operation for deporting third-country nationals in 2024. A total of 4,491 individuals have been repatriated from Cyprus as of May 21, showing a significant increase from the 3,489 repatriations during the same period in 2023.

Charges dropped against nine men over 2023 migrant shipwreck off Greece

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Charges dropped against nine men over 2023 migrant shipwreck off Greece

Nine Egyptian men accused of causing a deadly shipwreck off Greece had charges dropped because the Greek court had no jurisdiction to hear the case as the disaster occurred in international waters.

What we know about the crashed helicopter carrying Iran’s president

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What we know about the crashed helicopter carrying Iran’s president

The helicopter that crashed in Iran, killing the president and foreign minister, was a Bell 212 model. Bell developed the aircraft in the late 1960s for the Canadian military, and it is used globally for various purposes. The Bell 212 can carry passengers, cargo, and mount weapons. Non-military organizations and countries like Japan, the United States, and Thailand operate the Bell 212. Iran’s current fleet includes Italian-built naval versions of the helicopter. The most recent fatal crash involving a Bell 212 was in 2023 off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. Iran has managed to keep its aviation fleets flying through a combination of smuggled parts and reverse-engineering. The accident does not automatically fall under global rules for air accident probes, and it is unlikely that Iran will seek outside help for the investigation.

Fierce fighting in northern Gaza as Israel faces World Court challenge

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Fierce fighting in northern Gaza as Israel faces World Court challenge

Israeli forces engaged in fierce battles with Hamas fighters in Jabalia, Gaza, while militants attacked tanks in Rafah. The U.S. military started delivering humanitarian aid in Gaza. Residents reported destruction in Jabalia, with homes and shops being demolished. The Israeli Defense Forces claimed to have killed over 60 militants in recent days. The conflict has led to widespread hunger and a collapsed medical system in Gaza. Over 630,000 people have been displaced in Rafah since the military offensive started. Israel is facing accusations of violating the Genocide Convention in Gaza.

Five injured in traffic accident

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Five injured in traffic accident

Fact: The accident occurred when a 24-year-old driver lost control of his vehicle and smashed into a parked car, hitting four 19-year-old males standing on the road. The driver later tested positive for drug use.