Protesting with flags, guns and tires
Although protesting is serious business, a lighter side can also be found among the most arresting photographs of the past day. From Hong Kong to Afghanistan to the West Bank, have a look through the day in pictures.
Run on print
Hong Kongers snapped up the final print edition of pro-democracy newspaper "Apple Daily," which announced its closure after 26 years. The only newspaper of its kind left in the city, it had become a target as China steadily increases its grip over the semi-autonomous region. The final edition of 1 million copies, up from the usual 80,000, was sold out by morning.
End of an icon
John McAfee of the eponymous antivirus software was found dead in his prison cell in Barcelona after an apparent suicide. The British-American dual citizen had been imprisoned since October and was awaiting extradition to the US under tax evasion charges. McAfee made millions off the antivirus software in the 1980s; the 75-year-old had been on a speaking circuit when he was detained.
Pro-Pride statement
A man wearing a Germany shirt runs in front of the Hungarian team ahead of the Euro 2020 game between Germany and Hungary, after Hungary came under fire for passing an anti-LGBTQ law week. The game, played in Munich, ended in a 2-2 draw. Hungarian Prime Minster Viktor Orban reportedly canceled his attendance at the last moment, while stadiums across Germany were lit up in rainbow colors.
Afghans pledge to hold the line
Hundreds of armed men gather to demonstrate their support for Afghan security forces and against the Taliban. The security situation in Afghanistan has been deteriorating since the United States pushed forward its decision to withdraw all troops ahead of the 20-year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. The Taliban are gaining ground, threatening a reversal of human rights conditions in the country.
Unrest continues amid fragile cease-fire
A Palestinian at a night protest against Israeli settlements in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The recent conflict between Palestinians and Israelis in May saw both sides exchange 11 days of fire. Hundreds died in Gaza, while Israelis saw over a dozen dead. By some counts, Palestinians had fired more than 4,000 rockets; Israel's Iron Dome defense system stopped most of them.
Pope meets Spider-Man
Pope Francis shakes hands with Spider-Man, as the character hands him a mask at the Vatican. Despite the coronavirus pandemic dying down in most of Europe as vaccinations pick up speed, people are being warned to stay vigilant and maintain protection measures in light of the highly contagious delta variant. The 28-year-old man in costume travels across Italy visiting sick children in hospitals.