Authorities have identified Jifara Ibrahim, an 11-year-old boy, as the 12th victim of a deadly rocket attack in Majdal Shams, carried out by Hezbollah. The attack has heightened tensions in the region, with Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, vowing retaliation. The incident underscores the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, with significant implications for the Druze community in the Golan Heights.

South Africa's heavy reliance on coal is exacerbating the global carbon crisis despite the country's significant solar potential. The ongoing energy crisis, marked by frequent blackouts, has led to the construction of massive coal plants, overshadowing renewable energy efforts. Former President Jacob Zuma's chaotic energy policies further complicated the situation, but current President Cyril Ramaphosa is steering the country towards renewable energy. The government seeks international funding to transition away from coal, while balancing political and economic pressures to maintain mining jobs.

The Johannesburg City Library has been closed since May 2021 for major repairs, leaving its 1.5 million books inaccessible. The closure, initially due to Covid-19 lockdowns, has been prolonged by structural and safety issues, with reopening now expected to take up to three more years. The library's closure has significantly impacted the community, which relies on its resources for education and cultural activities. Despite the closure, Johannesburg's literary culture remains vibrant, with numerous branch libraries, bookstores, and community initiatives like Bridge Books and the African Book Trust continuing to promote reading and literacy. Efforts are underway to improve the surrounding area and support the community through various partnerships and projects.

Explorers have discovered Ernest Shackleton's Endurance shipwreck in the Weddell Sea, more than a century after it sank. The ship was found at a depth of 3,008 meters and is remarkably well-preserved. The expedition, organized by the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust, used underwater drones to locate and film the wreck. The discovery is considered a significant achievement, comparable to finding the Titanic. The mission also included climate change research, with scientists collecting numerous ice and snow samples. The wreck is protected under international law, prohibiting the removal of artifacts.

Johannesburg's street art scene, led by artists like Dbongz, has revitalized the city's once neglected areas, transforming them into vibrant, colorful spaces. Real estate firms and brands like Heineken and Apple Music have commissioned murals to enhance their properties and promote local culture. Notable contributions include Hannelie Coetzee's large-scale portrait and Shepard Fairey's Nelson Mandela mural. These artistic efforts have fostered a sense of community and safety, encouraging people to engage with the urban environment.

South Africa faces a dilemma of balancing its energy needs with climate commitments, heavily relying on coal while exploring renewable energy options. The government seeks financing at COP26 to support Eskom's transition from coal. Despite past chaotic energy policies under Jacob Zuma, current President Cyril Ramaphosa is reviving renewable energy initiatives. The country aims to decommission old coal plants and adopt cleaner energy sources, though coal remains politically significant due to job dependencies. The article highlights the urgency of addressing the energy crisis and the potential benefits of international financial support.

The article discusses the issue of book theft in downtown Johannesburg, highlighting the experiences of street vendor Mahle Mavimbela, who recently had his entire stock stolen. Despite the risks, books are in high demand, with both street vendors and bookstores like Exclusive Books and Books Galore suffering significant losses due to theft. The article also touches on the challenges faced by vendors, such as police confiscations and the need to restock with limited funds. Mavimbela's personal journey from managing a takeout place to becoming a self-employed bookseller is explored, as well as the broader context of the urban book trade and the demand for books by black authors. The author of the article is conducting PhD research on urban booksellers and uses Mavimbela's story to illustrate the complexities of the book market in Johannesburg.

The Sunday Times Literary Awards highlighted the national mood through the lens of non-fiction and fiction books. Griffin Shea, chair of the non-fiction judging panel, emphasized the importance of books that reassess the past and illuminate the present, with notable works by Johnny Clegg, Imraan Coovadia, Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, Thula Simpson, and Mignonne Breier. Ekow Duker, chair of the fiction judges, discussed the challenges of judging fiction and praised Tshidiso Moletsane's 'Junx' for its exceptional and honest portrayal of Johannesburg. The awards underscore the enduring power of storytelling in South Africa.

In Johannesburg, street art is transforming the once neglected city centre, with artists like Dbongz leading the movement. The city's past decline is being countered by vibrant murals that attract visitors and investment. Real estate firms commission artworks to revitalize buildings, and public art is seen as adding meaning to urban spaces. Artists like Hannelie Coetzee and Shepard Fairey have contributed notable works, and brands like Apple Music and Heineken South Africa are engaging with the art scene. Dbongz's work, including a recent mural for Apple Music, has become a visual trademark for Johannesburg, inspiring others and bringing hope to impoverished areas.

Street art is transforming Johannesburg's cityscape, with artists like Dbongz leading a movement that revitalizes neglected areas. Real estate firms and brands are commissioning murals to enhance urban aesthetics and foster a sense of community. Notable projects include works by Hannelie Coetzee and Shepard Fairey, contributing to a vibrant cultural renaissance in the city.