Maternity hospitals in Sudan’s capital area have reopened after being closed due to war. Mothers now have access to safer childbirth services despite high costs, shortages of medicine, and difficult travel conditions. Health officials report that risks for mothers and babies are decreasing as services improve.
Key Facts
The Al-Dayat maternity hospital in Omdurman has resumed operations after a long closure caused by war.
Many women faced unsafe home births and long travel during the closure, increasing health risks.
The Khartoum State Ministry of Health reopened 15 maternity wards in the capital region.
About 7,000 babies are being born each month in the capital’s hospitals, with 60 births daily at Al-Dayat hospital alone.
Costs for childbirth range from $216 for natural births at government hospitals to over $1,300 for C-sections in private hospitals.
Mothers from distant regions face high transport and accommodation costs to reach hospitals.
Hospitals face shortages of basic medicines and have limited staff due to the war-driven loss of doctors and nurses.
The Neonatal Department at Omdurman Hospital has around 140 incubators, making it the largest in Sudan.
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A cruise ship carrying 2,000 LGBTQ+ passengers and performer Patti LuPone was blocked from entering Turkey because authorities said the group’s behavior did not fit the country’s moral values. The ship had planned to stop in the Turkish port of Kuşadası, but will now go to Cairo and Crete instead.
Key Facts
The ship, Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, started its cruise from Athens on July 5.
The cruise was organized by Atlantis, a US company specializing in LGBTQ+ trips.
Turkish authorities in Aydin province canceled the ship’s stop in Kuşadası citing public concern and moral reasons.
Patti LuPone is performing on the cruise and expressed anger at the ban.
Atlantis Events said this is the first time in 36 years they were told not to dock because of their passengers’ identity.
The company has tried, without success, to change Turkey’s decision even with help from the US embassy.
Homosexuality is legal in Turkey, but LGBTQ+ people often face discrimination and hostility, including from top government leaders.
The ship will make alternative stops in Cairo, Egypt, and Crete, Greece.
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Meta decided in early 2025 to reduce content censorship on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. This change focused on removing only illegal or very serious harmful content, relying more on users to report less serious issues, which may have led to an increase in antisemitic and other offensive content.
Key Facts
In January 2025, Meta announced a policy to reduce censorship and remove factcheckers.
The policy focused on tackling illegal or very serious violations like terrorism threats and child exploitation.
Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg said this change would catch less harmful content but reduce accidental removals of innocent posts.
The royal commission into antisemitism reported concerns that this policy allowed more antisemitic and hateful content.
Internal Meta guidelines showed some offensive comments were allowed if they were not false claims about specific criminal behavior.
Meta tries to balance removing hateful content with avoiding over-enforcement that could remove legitimate speech.
Meta reported a consistent 0.02% rate of hateful content violations since 2022, but the commission noted a steep 79% drop in actions against hateful conduct after the policy change.
Some users providing evidence to the inquiry were targeted with offensive content on Meta’s platforms.
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A Chinese submarine launched a nuclear-capable ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean during a planned military exercise. The test missile had a dummy warhead and hit a targeted area as part of routine training.
Key Facts
The missile was launched on a Monday at 12:01 p.m. Beijing time.
The missile carried a dummy warhead, meaning it was not armed with a real nuclear weapon.
The missile accurately landed in a pre-set sea area in the Pacific Ocean.
This was China’s second similar missile test in the Pacific since September 2024.
China notified Australia and New Zealand about the upcoming missile test beforehand.
The Chinese government said the test is annual military training and follows international laws.
Chinese officials stated the test is not aimed at any specific country or target.
The missile test was conducted by a Chinese navy submarine.
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Millions of people took part in the funeral procession for Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an attack. The large public gathering showed national unity, despite recent protests and violence in the country. Iranian leaders and officials highlighted the event as a sign of strength and resistance against external pressure.
Key Facts
The funeral procession took place in Tehran, moving from Revolution Square to Azadi Square.
Ali Khamenei was killed in a bombing attributed to Israel in February.
Mourners wore black and carried Iranian flags and pictures of Khamenei.
The event lasted 10-12 hours and involved a huge crowd using public transport like the metro.
Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, was named the new supreme leader but did not attend the funeral publicly due to safety concerns.
Iran’s president praised the crowd’s peaceful behavior during the funeral.
More than 300 foreign journalists were given visas to cover the event.
Iranian officials rejected claims by President Trump that the public grief was fake, saying the mourning was genuine.
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China tested a long-range missile in the Pacific Ocean, landing it in designated waters, as part of its annual military training. Australia said it was informed shortly before the test and called the action destabilizing for the region.
Key Facts
China launched a sea-based long-range missile with a dummy warhead into the Pacific.
The test was described by China as routine military training with prior notice to relevant countries.
Australia received notification of the test only on the day it happened.
Australian officials expressed concern that the test threatens peace and stability in the Pacific.
Australia and Fiji signed a defense alliance earlier the same day, pledging mutual support if attacked.
Chinese satellite-tracking ships are positioned in the Pacific, likely to monitor missile tests.
The Pacific Islands Forum wants the region to remain peaceful, calling such tests inconsistent with that goal.
China has increased its missile testing in 2024, showing growing military capability.
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At least seven people died and 24 were wounded in a series of missile and drone attacks on Kyiv by Russia. The attacks targeted residential areas and happened just before a NATO summit in Turkey, with President Zelenskyy warning of continued large-scale strikes.
Key Facts
The attacks on Kyiv used ballistic and cruise missiles, plus drones.
At least seven people were killed and 24 injured.
Residential buildings in Podilskyi and Darnytsia districts were damaged, with some partially collapsing.
People were trapped under rubble in some of the damaged buildings.
The attack occurred hours after President Zelenskyy warned of a large-scale strike.
The recent Russian attack followed another big strike that killed at least 31 people.
President Zelenskyy called on Western countries to supply more air defense systems, especially Patriot missiles.
The attacks happened one day before a NATO summit in Turkey.
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Residents of Crimea report a very serious situation after Ukraine attacked oil refineries, power plants, and military sites on the peninsula. These attacks have increased recently to cut off support for Russian troops fighting in southern Ukraine.
Key Facts
Ukrainian drones have struck multiple targets in Crimea, including oil refineries and power plants.
Crimea is a peninsula that Russia took control of, but Ukraine is now targeting it.
The attacks aim to disrupt Russian supply lines to forces in southern Ukraine.
Local people in Crimea describe the situation as "catastrophic."
The increase in attacks is part of Ukraine’s efforts to weaken Russia’s military actions.
Crimea is important to Russian President Vladimir Putin for personal and strategic reasons.
The situation remains tense as fighting continues in the region.
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The UK government is considering changes to rules that require private housing builders to include affordable homes in new rural developments of 10 to 49 houses. Analysis shows this change could risk half of the affordable housing supply in rural England and reduce the total affordable homes built by 32,000 over 10 years.
Key Facts
The government may end the rule that developers must build affordable homes in medium-sized developments (10-49 houses).
These rules are called section 106 agreements, which require some homes to be affordable.
In rural areas, over half of affordable homes come from developments of this size.
Ending these rules could lead to 32,000 fewer affordable homes over the next decade.
Affordable housing is important for rural families who often cannot afford market prices.
Developers might instead pay money to local councils to build affordable homes elsewhere.
Section 106 agreements currently provide about 36% of all affordable homes built in 2024-25.
Officials say no final decision has been made, but changes aim to simplify the building process amid concerns about building costs and delays.
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Sennheiser has released the Momentum 5 headphones, which offer strong sound quality, improved noise cancelling, and a user-replaceable battery. They provide up to 57 hours of listening with noise cancelling on and support multiple Bluetooth audio formats for better sound on various devices.
Key Facts
The Momentum 5 headphones cost around £330 ($400) and replace the previous model.
They are made with high-quality materials and are comfortable for long use.
Controls include buttons and a touch panel on the right ear cup for playback and noise cancelling.
They use Bluetooth 5.4 and can connect to two devices at once (multipoint).
Supported Bluetooth audio formats include aptX Adaptive, aptX Lossless, SBC, and AAC.
Battery life is about 57 hours with noise cancelling active, and charging takes roughly two hours.
Sound quality features clear tone separation, balanced bass, mids, and highs, with customizable sound settings available through a smartphone app.
Noise cancelling improves over past Sennheiser models but is slightly less effective than top competitors like Sony and Bose.
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Tensions have grown between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel’s military actions in Lebanon and the US bid for a peace deal with Iran. Reports suggest President Trump is frustrated with Netanyahu’s refusal to stop attacks, while some in the US, including parts of Trump’s political base, are increasingly critical of support for Israel.
Key Facts
President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu have a strained relationship due to disagreements over Israel’s attacks on Lebanon.
The US is negotiating a peace deal with Iran, which includes demands to end Israel’s war in southern Lebanon.
A leaked phone call revealed Trump called Netanyahu “crazy” and blamed him for worsening Israel’s reputation.
Some US political figures, including former TV host Tucker Carlson, criticize Israel and question US support for it.
Parts of Trump’s right-wing populist movement show skepticism about backing Israel.
Netanyahu faces political challenges, including corruption charges and an upcoming election.
Experts believe President Trump has flexibility in US-Israel relations and can maintain support from most Republicans despite tensions.
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China's military test-fired a long-range ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine in the South Pacific. The missile carried a practice warhead, and New Zealand was informed of the test just hours before it happened.
Key Facts
China launched a ballistic missile from a nuclear-powered submarine.
The launch took place in the South Pacific at 12:01 p.m.
The missile carried a dummy (practice) warhead, not a real weapon.
The official Chinese news agency Xinhua reported the launch.
New Zealand’s government was informed only a few hours before the test.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed the late notice.
China conducted the test despite New Zealand’s previous concerns about such activity.
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Women along East Africa’s coast are creating new jobs by combining fishing with tourism and environmental projects. They are restoring habitats like mangroves and coral reefs to protect the ocean while finding alternative ways to earn money. These efforts help communities cope with challenges like climate change, overfishing, and industrial competition.
Key Facts
In Malindi, Kenya, women are building a beachside restaurant to generate income beyond fishing.
Fisherfolk in East Africa are shifting towards tourism, ecosystem restoration, and conservation businesses.
Restored mangrove forests in Kenya support beekeeping and ecotourism efforts by women.
In Zanzibar, communities protect coral reefs through managed fishing closures to boost ocean health.
Mozambique is restoring sea grass to revive marine life and create new jobs.
Women, often in leadership roles, are key in leading conservation efforts and building resilient livelihoods.
Industrial fishing, including operations by Chinese-owned companies, makes it harder for small-scale fisherwomen to compete.
Support from projects like ReSea, backed by the Canadian government, helps women adapt to changing conditions and diversify income.
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A French court is deciding if Marine Le Pen can run for president in 2027. If she is not allowed, her party’s president, Jordan Bardella, will likely run instead. Bardella is similar to Le Pen in many political views but tries to present a different style to attract more voters.
Key Facts
Marine Le Pen may be prevented by a court from running for president in 2027.
Jordan Bardella, age 30, is the current leader of the National Rally party and Le Pen’s chosen replacement.
Le Pen has run for president three times before and nearly won.
Bardella focuses on anti-immigration policies, especially concerning African immigration.
Bardella uses a more business-friendly approach aimed at entrepreneurs and wealthy conservatives.
Le Pen made changes to the party to make it less extreme and removed her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, who founded the party.
The French president, Emmanuel Macron, cannot run in 2027 due to term limits.
The National Rally party was formerly called the National Front.
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Americans across the country celebrated the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th with fireworks and various events. These celebrations included parades, concerts, and speeches, including a rally held by President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
The 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence was celebrated on July 4, 2026.
Fireworks displays were held nationwide as part of the celebrations.
President Donald Trump held a rally to mark the Fourth of July.
Events included concerts, parades, and special tributes such as performances of patriotic songs.
Ships from around the world participated in a parade on the Hudson River.
The celebrations took place alongside record-breaking heat and severe weather warnings.
Other notable events included tributes to military families and cultural heritage celebrations.
The anniversary also brought discussions about America’s historical legacy and family histories of prominent figures.
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Mexico’s national soccer team played well in the World Cup, reaching the last 16 before losing 3-2 to England. For Mexican and Latino communities in Southern California, the team’s success brought joy and a chance to celebrate their culture, especially after a difficult year marked by immigration raids and fear.
Key Facts
Mexico lost to England 3-2 in the World Cup Round of 16 at the Azteca Stadium.
Mexican fans in Santa Ana, California, cheered their team despite the loss.
The World Cup gave the local Mexican-American community a reason to celebrate after a tough year.
A year ago, many Latino neighborhoods faced intense immigration raids that caused fear and emptied businesses.
The tournament helped unite supporters and allowed them to express pride in their identity openly.
Mexican fans wore team shirts, waved flags, and sang the national anthem in public places during the tournament.
Southern California has one of the largest Mexican communities outside Mexico.
The return of public celebrations marked a big change from the previous year's atmosphere of uncertainty and silence.
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A Philippine senator, Rodante Marcoleta, was arrested on charges of large-scale plunder, meaning serious corruption involving a lot of money. This is the latest arrest of a senator in the Philippines in a case of suspected corruption linked to undeclared campaign funds. A related protest by his religious group caused big traffic problems in Manila.
Key Facts
Senator Rodante Marcoleta was arrested in Quezon City for alleged plunder, a serious crime that does not allow bail.
The charge involves not declaring 75 million pesos (about $1.2 million) in supposed campaign contributions.
Marcoleta denies the charges and went to court with his lawyers before the arrest was made.
His religious group, Iglesia ni Cristo, held a large three-day protest in Manila against his arrest, causing heavy traffic jams.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. canceled two official events due to concerns about the protest.
Another senator, Jinggoy Estrada, was also arrested recently on similar plunder charges involving a flood-control project.
Both Marcoleta and Estrada supported former President Rodrigo Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Senate was set to start the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte on the same day.
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Asian stock markets and U.S. futures showed mixed results after a long holiday weekend in the U.S. Oil prices fell slightly after some OPEC+ members decided to increase their oil production in August. Uncertainty about oil supplies remains due to delayed talks related to the Strait of Hormuz during funeral ceremonies in Iran.
Key Facts
Asian shares and U.S. futures were mixed, with some stock indexes falling and others rising.
Technology stocks contributed to declines in Tokyo and Seoul markets.
OPEC+ members Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman will increase oil production by 188,000 barrels per day in August.
This is the fifth month in a row that OPEC+ has agreed to raise oil output.
Brent crude oil price dropped 25 cents to $71.87 per barrel; U.S. crude dropped 10 cents to $68.59 per barrel.
Talks about reopening the Strait of Hormuz are on hold during the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell by 0.4%, and South Korea’s Kospi dropped by 0.8%.
The U.S. dollar rose against the Japanese yen, trading at about 161.92 yen compared to 140 yen a year ago.
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Australia and Fiji have signed a new defense agreement called the Ocean of Peace Alliance, making it Fiji’s first mutual defense treaty. The two countries also agreed on an economic deal involving over 1 billion Australian dollars in investment, aiming to strengthen security and economic ties in the Pacific region amid concerns about China’s growing influence.
Key Facts
Australia and Fiji signed the Ocean of Peace Alliance, a mutual defense treaty, on July 6, 2026.
Fiji’s Prime Minister is Sitiveni Rabuka; Australia’s Prime Minister is Anthony Albanese.
The treaty commits both countries to help each other in times of need.
Australia will invest more than 1 billion Australian dollars ($693 million) in Fiji over ten years through the Vuvale Union economic treaty.
This is Australia’s fourth mutual defense treaty, following agreements with the U.S., New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.
The treaty aims to counter China’s influence in the South Pacific after China signed a security deal with the Solomon Islands in 2022.
Fiji’s Prime Minister said the agreement does not threaten either country’s relationship with China.
Albanese plans to visit the Solomon Islands to discuss their security treaty with China and to meet with leaders from Papua New Guinea and Tonga.
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Ukrainian forces are using midrange drones to attack Russian supply routes. These drones help disrupt fuel, ammunition, and reinforcements, slowing down Russian advances and aiding Ukrainian counterattacks, including strikes on Crimea.
Key Facts
Ukrainian midrange drones target highways used by Russian forces to carry supplies.
These drones operate from command centers hundreds of kilometers away from the front lines.
The goal is to cut off supplies like food, ammunition, and batteries to Russian soldiers.
Attacks on supply lines help stall Russian troop movements and make logistics harder.
Previously, Ukrainian drones could not reach this supply corridor due to range limits.
New fixed-wing midrange drones with Starlink satellite communications have extended Ukraine’s reach.
Disrupting supplies supports Ukrainian counterattacks and efforts to isolate Crimea.
Soldiers use call signs instead of real names when speaking about drone operations.
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