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Emotion and politics merge in Tehran at funeral of former supreme leader

Emotion and politics merge in Tehran at funeral of former supreme leader

July 05, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Large crowds gathered in Tehran for the funeral of Iran's former supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in joint US-Israeli strikes at the start of a war. Ceremonies will last six days across Iran and Iraq, with burial planned in Mashhad.

Key Facts

  • Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s former supreme leader, was killed in US-Israeli strikes at the war’s start.
  • Thousands gathered in Tehran for his funeral service on Sunday.
  • His second son, Mojtaba Khamenei, was not present at the funeral.
  • His other sons—Masoud, Mostafa, and Meysam—attended the ceremony.
  • Iran state media say funeral ceremonies will continue for six days in Iran and neighboring Iraq.
  • The burial will take place in the former leader’s hometown, Mashhad, on Thursday.
  • International journalists face restrictions on reporting from Iran, including the BBC’s correspondent.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
White House report brands Smithsonian leadership as radical activists who can’t be trusted

White House report brands Smithsonian leadership as radical activists who can’t be trusted

July 05, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

A White House report criticized the leadership of the Smithsonian Institution, especially at the National Museum of American History, calling them radical activists and saying they cannot be trusted to tell America’s story honestly. This report was released as President Donald Trump plans to make changes to the Smithsonian and other cultural institutions he believes promote ideas that are too liberal.

Key Facts

  • The White House report targets Smithsonian leaders, accusing them of political activism rather than straightforward history education.
  • The report was released by the White House Domestic Policy Council on Independence Day.
  • President Trump announced an executive order aiming to change Smithsonian programs that the administration says promote “divisive narratives” and “improper ideology.”
  • Lonnie Bunch is the Smithsonian’s current secretary and is the first African American in that role.
  • Anthea M. Hartig is the first woman director of the National Museum of American History.
  • The Trump administration has also taken steps to influence other cultural organizations, including the John F. Kennedy Center and Columbia University.
  • The Smithsonian has not commented immediately on the report.
  • President Trump’s actions are part of a broader effort to reshape cultural institutions to align more with conservative values.
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AP News
Stephen Francis, influential coach who transformed Jamaican sprinting, dies at 64

Stephen Francis, influential coach who transformed Jamaican sprinting, dies at 64

July 05, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

Stephen Francis, a Jamaican track and field coach who helped turn Jamaica into a global sprinting leader, has died at age 64. He co-founded the MVP Track & Field Club, which trained many Olympic champions and world record holders.

Key Facts

  • Stephen Francis died late on a Saturday; no cause of death was announced.
  • He co-founded the Maximising Velocity & Power (MVP) Track & Field Club in 1999.
  • The MVP club produced top sprinters like Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Elaine Thompson-Herah, and Asafa Powell.
  • Francis helped keep Jamaican athletes in Jamaica by providing high-quality coaching and training at home.
  • Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness praised Francis for dedicating his life to coaching instead of finance.
  • Francis received the Order of Jamaica in 2017 for his contributions to track and field.
  • The global athletics organization and leaders from other Caribbean countries acknowledged his impact on the sport.
  • His work inspired a generation of Caribbean athletes to believe they could compete at the highest levels.
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AP News
Johnson Says Congress Must Address Birthright Citizenship After SCOTUS Loss

Johnson Says Congress Must Address Birthright Citizenship After SCOTUS Loss

July 05, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

House Speaker Mike Johnson said Congress should work on changing birthright citizenship laws after the Supreme Court blocked President Trump's order to limit automatic citizenship for children born in the U.S. Johnson and President Trump want lawmakers to act quickly to stop what they call "birthright tourism," where foreign nationals have children in the U.S. to get citizenship.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against President Trump’s executive order restricting birthright citizenship.
  • The Court confirmed that children born in the U.S. are citizens at birth under the 14th Amendment.
  • Chief Justice John Roberts said the decision follows a long-standing 1898 case affirming citizenship for children of immigrants born in the U.S.
  • President Trump asked Congress to start working on legislation to end birthright citizenship without a constitutional amendment.
  • House Speaker Mike Johnson supports Congress taking action to change the current law.
  • Johnson expressed concern that “birthright tourism” harms the rule of law and national security.
  • Trump argues the 14th Amendment was meant only for formerly enslaved people, not children of undocumented immigrants.
  • Multiple lower courts had blocked Trump’s policy before the Supreme Court ruling.
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Newsweek
Over 100 New Wildfires Sparked on Fourth of July Weekend

Over 100 New Wildfires Sparked on Fourth of July Weekend

July 05, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Over 100 new wildfires started across the United States during the Fourth of July weekend, adding to an already intense fire season due to hot and dry weather in the West. Firefighters are actively battling many large fires, with evacuations ordered in some areas, while officials believe fireworks contributed to the new fires.

Key Facts

  • Since Saturday, 124 new wildfires have been reported nationwide, including six major ones.
  • Firefighters are currently managing 41 large fires, with mandatory evacuations in three places.
  • This year, nearly 37,000 fires have burned about 3.3 million acres across the country.
  • Officials suspect fireworks caused some of the new fires, especially in Colorado.
  • The National Interagency Fire Center is at Preparedness Level 4, meaning high resource demand across the nation.
  • Extreme heat, dry plants, and low humidity are creating dangerous fire conditions in several Western states like Colorado, Utah, and Arizona.
  • Three firefighters died recently in Colorado while fighting the Knowles Fire.
  • Large fires include Utah’s Cottonwood Fire (about 95,000 acres) and Colorado’s Aspen Acres Fire (about 87,000 acres).
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Newsweek
Charlie Kirk's alleged killer will have his preliminary hearing this week

Charlie Kirk's alleged killer will have his preliminary hearing this week

July 05, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Tyler Robinson, charged with killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a Utah event, will have a preliminary hearing this week to determine if there is enough evidence for a trial. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty and will present evidence, including DNA and witness testimony, while the hearing will be livestreamed and open to the public.

Key Facts

  • Tyler Robinson is charged with aggravated murder in the September 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.
  • The preliminary hearing will last five days and start on Monday in Utah court.
  • Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Robinson, citing aggravating circumstances.
  • DNA matching Robinson’s was found on the trigger of the rifle used in the shooting.
  • Robinson turned himself in after the shooting and allegedly sent a confession via text and left a note about targeting Kirk.
  • The hearing will include evidence such as DNA, witness statements, autopsy results, and video of the shooting.
  • Kirk’s family will be in court for the first time with Robinson during the hearing.
  • The judge will decide after the hearing if the case can move forward to trial.
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CBS News
US Congressman denies existence of Palestinians in interview

US Congressman denies existence of Palestinians in interview

July 05, 2026 • Us • Al Jazeera

Summary

US Congressman Randy Fine said in an interview that “there is no such thing as Palestinian.” He represents Florida and is known for supporting Israel and making statements against Islam. His comment has sparked criticism.

Key Facts

  • Randy Fine is a US Congressman from Florida.
  • He said on the show The Next Generation that Palestinians do not exist.
  • Fine has a history of making statements that some see as against Islam.
  • He is known for supporting Israel in political matters.
  • His recent comment has caused criticism and controversy.
  • The topic relates to the identity of Palestinians in the Middle East conflict.
  • The interview aired publicly and attracted attention online.
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Al Jazeera
The Atlantic republishes JD Vance’s anti-Trump essay from 10 years ago

The Atlantic republishes JD Vance’s anti-Trump essay from 10 years ago

July 05, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

The Atlantic republished a 10-year-old essay by JD Vance criticizing President Donald Trump as "cultural heroin," describing Trump’s political appeal as a temporary comfort rather than a solution. Vance, once a vocal Trump critic, later became Trump’s vice-presidential running mate in 2024 after changing his views.

Key Facts

  • The Atlantic republished JD Vance’s essay from 2014 that criticized Trump’s political style.
  • Vance compared Trump’s appeal to “cultural heroin,” offering an easy escape but no real solutions.
  • The essay was originally published during Trump’s first presidential campaign.
  • At that time, Vance had not entered politics and worked at a venture capital firm.
  • Vance had described himself as a “never Trump guy” and had called Trump “unfit” for office.
  • He later ran for the US Senate in Ohio in 2022 with Trump’s support and won.
  • Vance became Trump’s vice-presidential running mate for the 2024 election.
  • President Trump marked the US’s 250th anniversary with a speech about a “golden age” despite low approval ratings.
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Guardian World Guardian US
EasyJet reaches 'agreement in principle' over potential takeover

EasyJet reaches 'agreement in principle' over potential takeover

July 05, 2026 • Business • BBC Business

Summary

EasyJet has reached a preliminary agreement with the US investment firm Castlelake over a possible takeover offer valued at about £5.2 billion. Castlelake’s latest offer is £6.90 per share, higher than previous bids, but the deal is not final and must pass regulatory reviews and shareholder approval.

Key Facts

  • EasyJet is a low-cost airline based in Luton, UK, flying around 1,200 routes in 35 European countries.
  • Castlelake owns about 2.14% of EasyJet’s shares and has made multiple takeover offers before, all previously rejected.
  • The new offer from Castlelake is £6.90 per share, better than their earlier bids of £5.60 to £6.50 per share.
  • The takeover still requires approval from regulators and EasyJet shareholders.
  • EU rules require that EasyJet remain at least 51% owned by a European company; Castlelake is US-based but has plans to meet this rule.
  • EasyJet’s board said they would likely recommend this offer to shareholders if it becomes official.
  • EasyJet’s share price has dropped over 30% in the last year, partly due to tensions affecting travel, like the US-Israel conflict involving Iran.
  • Castlelake manages assets worth about $36 billion (£27.3 billion).
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Why Iran's unseen leader remains in the shadows

Why Iran's unseen leader remains in the shadows

July 05, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Iran is holding large public mourning events after the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, its Supreme Leader, on February 28, which coincided with the start of a war with the United States. The government is showing a strong, organized display of grief, while questions remain about who will succeed Khamenei and the future direction of Iran’s leadership.

Key Facts

  • Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, was assassinated on February 28, the opening day of a war between Iran and the US.
  • Tens of thousands gathered in Tehran for funeral and mourning ceremonies at the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla.
  • State TV broadcast the events, showing people praying and calling for revenge.
  • A few Western media outlets were allowed to film the ceremonies, which appeared carefully planned by the Iranian government.
  • Analysts debate whether the large crowds show true public grief or a government effort to appear strong.
  • Mojtaba Khamenei, possibly the next leader and the Supreme Leader’s son, has not made public appearances since the assassination.
  • Three of Khamenei’s brothers and other family members who died in the attack attended the funeral.
  • The ongoing political succession in Iran is uncertain following the assassination and attack on Khamenei’s family.
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France24
Wes Moore distances from democratic socialist ideas: ‘I do not prescribe to an ideology’

Wes Moore distances from democratic socialist ideas: ‘I do not prescribe to an ideology’

July 05, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Maryland Governor Wes Moore said he does not follow any specific political ideology, including democratic socialism. He responded after a news report mentioned ideas supported by democratic socialist candidates, like ending prisons.

Key Facts

  • Wes Moore is the Governor of Maryland and a member of the Democratic Party.
  • He said he does not "prescribe to an ideology," meaning he does not strictly follow one political belief system.
  • A Fox News reporter, Shannon Bream, mentioned ideas from democratic socialist candidates in recent elections.
  • Some democratic socialists have proposed ending prisons and other major changes to the justice system.
  • Moore clarified that he does not support all those ideas.
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The Hill
Ex-CDC official describes "pure chaos" as RFK Jr. sought to transform agency

Ex-CDC official describes "pure chaos" as RFK Jr. sought to transform agency

July 05, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

A former top official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) described serious disruptions at the agency after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tried to change its policies and staff. She said experts were removed from a key vaccine advisory panel, misinformation about vaccines spread, and scientific facts were ignored.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Debra Houry, former CDC chief medical officer, resigned last summer with three other officials due to concerns about chaos in the agency.
  • Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed all 17 members of the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel (ACIP) on June 9, 2025.
  • Kennedy appointed new panel members who lacked medical, science, or government experience and had ties to lawsuits against vaccine makers.
  • The new panel voted to remove thimerosal from flu vaccines and to stop recommending the universal Hepatitis B vaccine at birth.
  • The new members were not initially vetted for conflicts of interest or ethics, a process required for CDC advisory panels.
  • Dr. Houry said facts and science were ignored and that political appointees were making requests involving outdated issues.
  • Kennedy refused to receive a briefing from the CDC’s top official about a current measles outbreak.
  • CDC officials expressed worry that important scientific perspectives were not part of decision-making under Kennedy’s leadership.
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CBS News
‘Minions & Monsters’ tops Fourth of July holiday box office, barely beating ‘Toy Story 5“

‘Minions & Monsters’ tops Fourth of July holiday box office, barely beating ‘Toy Story 5“

July 05, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

“Minions & Monsters” earned $36.4 million and was the top movie at the Fourth of July holiday box office in the U.S. It narrowly beat “Toy Story 5,” which earned $31 million over the same weekend.

Key Facts

  • “Minions & Monsters” is the seventh film in the “Despicable Me” series.
  • The movie opened on Wednesday and made $61.4 million in its first five days.
  • Globally, “Minions & Monsters” made $160 million in its debut week.
  • “Toy Story 5” earned $31 million during the Fourth of July weekend.
  • “Young Washington,” a movie about George Washington, came in third with nearly $21 million.
  • “Supergirl” earned $9.6 million but dropped 74% from its opening weekend.
  • The overall box office was down 24% compared to last year but up 12% from 2025.
  • Other notable films include “Obsession” and “Backrooms,” popular with younger audiences.
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AP News
Seaplane makes a rough landing in New York City’s East River with no injuries reported

Seaplane makes a rough landing in New York City’s East River with no injuries reported

July 05, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

A seaplane with 10 people on board made a rough landing in New York City’s East River on Sunday around noon. The plane stayed upright and was towed back to the dock. No injuries have been reported according to city officials.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in New York City’s East River.
  • The seaplane had 10 passengers.
  • The New York City Fire Department described the landing as “hard.”
  • The plane stayed mostly upright after landing.
  • It was towed back to the dock after the landing.
  • No injuries were reported from the landing.
  • A helicopter was seen flying above the scene.
  • Photos and videos showed the plane leaning with its left wingtip in the water.
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AP News
Shapiro calls Vance’s language in foreign policy speeches ‘dangerous and destructive’

Shapiro calls Vance’s language in foreign policy speeches ‘dangerous and destructive’

July 05, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro criticized Vice President J.D. Vance for using harmful language in his speeches about foreign policy. Shapiro said that such words could cause problems internationally and divide Americans.

Key Facts

  • Josh Shapiro is the Governor of Pennsylvania and a member of the Democratic Party.
  • J.D. Vance is the Vice President of the United States.
  • Shapiro said Vance’s foreign policy speeches contain “dangerous” and “destructive” language.
  • Shapiro believes this language harms the United States’ reputation in the world.
  • Shapiro also said the language divides Americans by separating some from others.
  • The criticism focuses on the tone and content of speeches about foreign policy.
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The Hill
EasyJet agrees to £5bn takeover by US investment firm

EasyJet agrees to £5bn takeover by US investment firm

July 05, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

EasyJet has agreed in principle to a £5 billion takeover by the US investment firm Castlelake, which would make the airline private. The deal followed several weeks of talks and earlier rejected offers, with EasyJet’s board likely to recommend the new offer to shareholders if it becomes firm.

Key Facts

  • EasyJet is Britain’s largest low-cost airline.
  • Castlelake, a US investment firm, has agreed on a £5 billion takeover deal with EasyJet.
  • The agreed price is £6.90 per share, higher than the previous rejected offer of £6.50 per share.
  • EasyJet’s board will likely advise shareholders to accept the offer if it becomes official.
  • The takeover deal requires a formal offer by 3 August at 5pm.
  • Castlelake supports EasyJet’s plans to modernise its fleet with newer, more fuel-efficient planes.
  • EasyJet is part of Britain’s FTSE 250 stock market index.
  • The deal would make EasyJet a private company instead of publicly traded.
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Guardian World Guardian Business
Mike Johnson: 14th Amendment ‘devalued’ by ‘birthright tourism’

Mike Johnson: 14th Amendment ‘devalued’ by ‘birthright tourism’

July 05, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Speaker Mike Johnson said that “birthright tourism” has weakened the meaning of the 14th Amendment. This comment came after President Trump asked Congress to address the topic of birthright citizenship following a recent Supreme Court decision.

Key Facts

  • Speaker Mike Johnson is from Louisiana and a Republican.
  • He criticized “birthright tourism,” which means people travel to the U.S. to have a child born here to get citizenship.
  • The 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the United States.
  • President Trump wants Congress to change laws about birthright citizenship.
  • The Supreme Court recently decided not to rule on President Trump’s executive order to limit birthright citizenship.
  • Justice Clarence Thomas disagreed with the Supreme Court’s decision to avoid the case.
  • The debate focuses on how U.S. citizenship is granted to children born in the country.
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The Hill
Why are American women ‘underbabied’?

Why are American women ‘underbabied’?

July 05, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

The birth rate in the United States is going down. Factors like no paid leave, discrimination against pregnant women at work, expensive childcare, unequal pay, and strict abortion laws make it harder for American women to have and raise children.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. birth rate is declining.
  • Many workers do not get paid leave after having a baby.
  • Pregnant women often face discrimination at work.
  • Childcare costs are very high and unaffordable for many families.
  • Women generally earn less than men, creating financial challenges.
  • Strict abortion restrictions limit women’s reproductive choices.
  • These issues combined make having children less possible or appealing for American women.
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The Hill
How Trump can win back allies and rejuvenate US diplomacy on Iran

How Trump can win back allies and rejuvenate US diplomacy on Iran

July 05, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

The article explains ways President Donald Trump can improve relationships and diplomacy with other countries about Iran. It highlights two main areas where efforts in diplomacy might lead to better results.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump is seeking to strengthen U.S. alliances related to Iran policy.
  • The article identifies two key areas where focused diplomatic work could help improve outcomes.
  • These improvements would involve working closely with allies in international relations.
  • Successfully managing diplomacy with Iran is a priority for U.S. foreign policy.
  • Concerted diplomatic efforts mean coordinated and focused talks and actions among countries.
  • The article suggests that better cooperation could lead to more favorable results in dealing with Iran issues.
  • Improving ties with allies can enhance the United States' position in global politics.
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The Hill
50 Houthi fighters killed in renewed clashes in Yemen

50 Houthi fighters killed in renewed clashes in Yemen

July 05, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Fighting has increased in western Yemen as Houthi forces launched a surprise attack on army barracks in southern Hodeidah. About 50 Houthi fighters have been reported killed during these renewed battles for control over key areas along the Red Sea coast.

Key Facts

  • The Houthis launched a sudden attack on army barracks in southern Hodeidah.
  • Around 50 Houthi fighters were killed in the fighting.
  • The clashes are happening in western Yemen.
  • Both sides are trying to control important parts of the Red Sea coast.
  • The fighting reflects ongoing conflict between the Yemeni government and Houthi forces.
  • Control of the Red Sea coast is strategically important for Yemen.
  • The situation is part of a larger conflict in Yemen involving territory disputes.
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Al Jazeera