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Amber heat-health alerts in effect as UK set for one of longest-lasting heatwaves since 1976

Amber heat-health alerts in effect as UK set for one of longest-lasting heatwaves since 1976

Summary

The UK is experiencing amber and yellow heat-health alerts due to a heatwave expected to last several days, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C (97°F) in southern England. The heatwave could be one of the longest since 1976, affecting health services and causing increased risks, especially for older people and those with health problems.

Key Facts

  • Amber heat-health alerts cover the Midlands, eastern, and southern England until 9 p.m. on July 12.
  • Yellow alerts are in place for northern England during the same period.
  • Temperatures will vary from mid-20s Celsius in the north to mid-30s in the south, peaking at 36°C.
  • Parts of southern and eastern England have already entered a heatwave with three days above threshold temperatures.
  • The heat will spread to Northern Ireland and Scotland, with temperatures in the high 20s Celsius.
  • An easterly wind later this week will cool eastern parts of the UK but increase heat in central southern England and South Wales.
  • The heatwave may last up to 14 consecutive days in some southern areas, making it one of the longest since 1976.
  • Humidity levels are expected to be lower than the late-June heatwave, making the heat feel less intense.
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'You have to say no': Families struggling with holiday food costs

'You have to say no': Families struggling with holiday food costs

Summary

Many families are facing higher food costs during school holidays in Northern Ireland, causing financial stress and worries about providing healthy meals for their children. A new bill in the Northern Ireland Assembly aims to bring back holiday food payments for children who qualify for free school meals, which were cut earlier this year.

Key Facts

  • During the Covid-19 pandemic, families of 90,000 children received £27 every two weeks to help with food costs during school holidays.
  • The Department of Education stopped these payments in March 2023 due to budget issues.
  • A new bill has been introduced to reinstate these holiday food payments, costing about £20 million a year.
  • Children qualify for free school meals if their household income is below £15,390 a year.
  • Food prices continue to rise, making it harder for families to buy fresh, healthy foods.
  • Single mothers and women using support centers report counting every penny to manage food budgets.
  • Lack of access to nutritious food can affect children’s growth, education, and mental health.
  • Local women’s centers offer support to families struggling with financial and mental health challenges.
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Scoop: Republicans prepare $8 million ad blitz against Platner replacement

Scoop: Republicans prepare $8 million ad blitz against Platner replacement

Summary

Republicans are spending $8 million on ads to introduce a new Democratic candidate for Maine’s Senate race, as the current Democratic nominee, Graham Platner, considers withdrawing. Platner has not officially left the race yet, causing uncertainty and affecting spending plans for both parties.

Key Facts

  • Republicans plan to release $8 million in negative ads targeting the new Democratic nominee in Maine.
  • Graham Platner, the current Democratic Senate candidate in Maine, is reflecting on his next steps but remains officially in the race.
  • Republicans see an opportunity to campaign against a new Democratic nominee who will have little time to connect with voters.
  • The pro-Senator Susan Collins super PAC, Pine Tree Results, raised $10.5 million in the first half of 2026 and has $8 million available now.
  • Donor Jon Gray, president of Blackstone and a longtime Democratic donor, gave $250,000 to the pro-Collins super PAC before allegations against Platner became public.
  • Platner is believed to want to influence who replaces him and prefers a progressive candidate, not a "corporate" Democrat.
  • Democrats have paused spending in Maine to pressure Platner to drop out, reallocating some funds to other states like Ohio, Alaska, and Michigan.
  • Platner’s situation is causing unease in the Democratic Party and highlighting tensions between progressive activists and party leaders.
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Farage's rivals rule out standing in Clacton by-election

Farage's rivals rule out standing in Clacton by-election

Summary

Nigel Farage resigned as the MP for Clacton and announced he will run again in a by-election, describing it as a fight between "people versus the establishment." Major UK political parties including Labour, Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Green Party, and Restore Britain decided not to compete in the by-election.

Key Facts

  • Nigel Farage resigned as MP for Clacton but plans to win the seat again in a by-election.
  • Labour, Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Green Party, and Restore Britain will not participate in this by-election.
  • Farage is under investigation for not declaring a £5 million gift from a billionaire donor before becoming an MP.
  • Farage insists he did nothing wrong regarding his finances and criticizes the media and the "establishment."
  • The by-election could happen as early as August and Farage's party has offered to pay for it.
  • Farage won Clacton in the 2024 general election with a large majority.
  • Labour called Farage’s move a distraction from the investigation.
  • Comedian Jon Harvey, known as Count Binface, plans to run in the by-election.
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U.S. rescinds waiver permitting Iranian oil sales after Iranian attacks on tankers

U.S. rescinds waiver permitting Iranian oil sales after Iranian attacks on tankers

Summary

The Trump administration ended a waiver that allowed Iran to sell oil after Iran attacked three tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The new rules stop any new oil sales immediately but allow a short grace period for transactions already underway, with the money frozen in special accounts.

Key Facts

  • The original waiver, called "General License X," allowed some Iranian oil sales despite U.S. sanctions.
  • The waiver was part of a 60-day peace deal between the U.S. and Iran signed on June 18.
  • Iran attacked three commercial tankers, violating the peace deal’s ceasefire.
  • The U.S. replaced the original waiver with "General License X1," stopping new Iranian oil sales after the change.
  • Ongoing transactions are allowed until July 17, with funds held in blocked accounts.
  • The U.S. military struck targets inside Iran in response to the tanker attacks.
  • Oil prices rose after the waiver was revoked, with Brent Crude hitting $75 a barrel.
  • China and India were major buyers of Iranian oil under the original waiver.
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Which? finds 150 potentially lethal baby products sold online

Which? finds 150 potentially lethal baby products sold online

Summary

A consumer group called Which? found 150 baby products sold online that could be dangerous to infants. These items, sold on popular websites like Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba, include feeding devices, sleep pillows, and sleeping bags that may cause choking or suffocation.

Key Facts

  • Which? identified 150 potentially harmful baby products on major online marketplaces.
  • Dangerous items include self-feeding devices, baby sleep pillows, and hooded sleeping bags without arm holes.
  • These products can cause choking, suffocation, overheating, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
  • Almost 25% of these unsafe products were found on Amazon.
  • Many products ignored official safety warnings issued by the UK’s Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).
  • Online sellers have removed some flagged items after being contacted, but unsafe listings reappear.
  • Which? wants new laws to make online marketplaces legally responsible for unsafe products sold by third parties.
  • Alibaba, AliExpress, Etsy, and Amazon stated they are working to remove dangerous products and improve safety controls.
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ICE agents attempting to stop vehicle fatally shoot motorist in Houston

ICE agents attempting to stop vehicle fatally shoot motorist in Houston

Summary

An ICE agent shot and killed a man named Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston during an attempt to stop his vehicle. ICE said the man hit an officer’s car and tried to run over an officer, which led to the agent shooting in self-defense.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Houston on a Tuesday during a federal immigration enforcement operation.
  • Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was identified by ICE as a Mexican national without legal immigration status.
  • ICE said Salgado hit an ICE vehicle, ignored orders, and tried to run over an officer.
  • The ICE agent fired his weapon, injuring Salgado, who later died in a hospital.
  • Salgado’s son said his father was looking for workers to hire when the shooting occurred.
  • Reuters could not independently confirm the man’s immigration status or the full details.
  • Similar cases in the past have had conflicting accounts or video evidence challenging initial agency statements.
  • The FBI and Department of Homeland Security did not comment on this case immediately.
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U.S. launches new strikes on Iran after attacks on tankers in Strait of Hormuz

U.S. launches new strikes on Iran after attacks on tankers in Strait of Hormuz

Summary

The U.S. military carried out strikes against Iran after Iran attacked three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration also ended a waiver that had permitted the sale of Iranian oil. Experts are discussing how these actions might affect the worldwide oil supply.

Key Facts

  • Iran attacked three commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The U.S. military responded by launching strikes targeting Iran.
  • President Donald Trump's administration revoked a waiver allowing the sale of Iranian oil.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a major route for global oil shipments.
  • Experts are analyzing the impact of these events on global oil supply and maritime security.
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Oil prices jump 5 percent after U.S. revokes Iran oil sanctions waiver

Oil prices jump 5 percent after U.S. revokes Iran oil sanctions waiver

Summary

Oil prices rose significantly after the United States ended its waiver on sanctions for Iranian oil. This change followed attacks on three commercial ships near a key waterway called the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Facts

  • Oil prices increased by over 5 percent on Tuesday.
  • Brent crude oil reached more than $75 per barrel.
  • The U.S. revoked its sanctions waiver for Iranian oil.
  • The decision came after attacks on three commercial vessels.
  • The attacks happened near the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping route.
  • The U.S. official linked the waiver revocation to regional security concerns.
  • The change affects international oil supply and market prices.
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At NATO summit, Trump pressures allies on loyalty, defense spending and Greenland

At NATO summit, Trump pressures allies on loyalty, defense spending and Greenland

Summary

At the NATO summit in Turkey, President Trump urged European allies to spend more on defense and support the U.S. and Israel in their conflict with Iran. New U.S. military strikes on Iran happened as the summit focused on improving Europe's defense capabilities.

Key Facts

  • The NATO summit took place in Turkey.
  • President Trump criticized European countries for not spending enough on defense.
  • He also expressed frustration about Europe's lack of support for U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran.
  • New U.S. strikes on Iran occurred during the time of the summit.
  • NATO leaders aim to strengthen Europe's ability to defend itself.
  • The article mentions ongoing conflict involving Iran.
  • The report was made by Nick Schifrin from Ankara.
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Russian missile strikes hit Ukraine’s capital Kyiv for third time in a week

Russian missile strikes hit Ukraine’s capital Kyiv for third time in a week

Summary

Russian missile attacks have hit Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, for the third time in less than a week, causing fires in two city districts. The strikes come as NATO leaders meet in Turkey to discuss aid for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Key Facts

  • Kyiv has been attacked by Russian missiles three times within one week.
  • The latest attacks caused fires in two districts, but casualty and damage details are unclear.
  • A previous large strike in Kyiv killed at least 14 people and damaged several buildings.
  • Both Russia and Ukraine have increased their use of long-range weapons like missiles.
  • Ukraine is targeting Russian energy supplies and ships carrying fuel to occupied Crimea.
  • NATO leaders are meeting in Ankara, Turkey, to discuss military support for Ukraine.
  • Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy signed defense cooperation agreements with Estonia, the Netherlands, and Denmark during the NATO summit.
  • US President Donald Trump expressed hope that the Russia-Ukraine war will be resolved soon and planned to meet Zelenskyy at the summit.
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US airlines’ monthly fuel spending topped $6 billion again in May, up 84% from year ago

US airlines’ monthly fuel spending topped $6 billion again in May, up 84% from year ago

Summary

U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May 2026, marking the second month in a row with costs over $6 billion. This spending is 84% higher than the same month last year, mainly because fuel prices increased, while the amount of fuel used stayed about the same.

Key Facts

  • U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May 2026.
  • This amount is 84% higher than in May 2025.
  • Airlines used 1.627 billion gallons of jet fuel in May 2026, slightly less than the previous year.
  • The average price for jet fuel in May was $4.09 per gallon, up 85% from $2.21 in May 2025.
  • Fuel costs are a major expense for airlines, making them sensitive to price changes.
  • The rise in fuel prices is linked to disruptions in the Middle East affecting global oil shipping routes.
  • Some easing in fuel prices occurred after a ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran, but tensions remain.
  • Lower fuel prices recently may improve airlines’ financial results, with Delta and other carriers preparing to report earnings.
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U.S. launches retaliatory strikes against Iran, military says

U.S. launches retaliatory strikes against Iran, military says

Summary

The U.S. military carried out strikes in Iran after Iran’s Revolutionary Guard attacked several ships near the Strait of Hormuz. These strikes were a response to protect shipping in that important waterway.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Central Command said the strikes happened on a Tuesday.
  • The strikes targeted Iran after attacks on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran was responsible for the attacks on the ships.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key passage for international shipping, especially oil transport.
  • The U.S. military’s action was described as retaliatory, meaning it was in response to Iran’s attacks.
  • CBS News reported the information, including comments from a White House and political correspondent.
  • The strikes mark a direct military response by the U.S. to protect freedom of navigation.
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Judge allows suit over airline window seats without a window to proceed

Judge allows suit over airline window seats without a window to proceed

Summary

A judge has allowed a lawsuit against United Airlines to continue. The lawsuit claims the airline charged passengers extra for “window seats” that do not actually have windows.

Key Facts

  • A passenger in California sued United Airlines for charging extra for a window seat without a window.
  • United defines a window seat by location, not necessarily by having an actual window.
  • The judge said the airline’s websites and boarding passes identify these seats as window seats.
  • The judge ruled this could be a breach of contract and let the case move forward.
  • United updated its seat selection process in 2025 to provide more details to customers.
  • Similar lawsuits have been filed against Delta Air Lines for the same issue.
  • Aircraft designs can prevent windows from being installed in some seats due to ducts or wiring.
  • Some airlines, like American and Alaska, inform passengers about windowless window seats; Delta and United have not.
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Egypt buoyed by praise for World Cup heroics despite controversial exit

Egypt buoyed by praise for World Cup heroics despite controversial exit

Summary

Egypt lost a close and controversial soccer match to Argentina in the World Cup, ending their historic run. The game featured a late comeback by Argentina, referee decisions that upset many fans, and a call by Egypt’s coach to address alleged racism during the match.

Key Facts

  • Egypt lost 3-2 to Argentina after leading 2-0, with Argentina scoring late goals to win.
  • A goal by Egypt was canceled after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.
  • Egypt received four yellow cards, including one for their coach, Hossam Hassan.
  • Coach Hassan made an “X” gesture to flag racial abuse according to FIFA’s anti-racism rules, but the game was not stopped immediately.
  • Egypt’s win against Australia marked their first advance to the World Cup round of 32 in history.
  • Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi praised the team for their performance and said the future looked brighter.
  • The Palestinian ambassador and fans criticized referee decisions and linked the match’s significance to Palestinian struggles.
  • Egypt’s Mostafa Ziko called the referee’s decisions unfair and oppressive after the match.
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Judge rejects DOJ's attempt to get names of 2020 election workers in Fulton County

Judge rejects DOJ's attempt to get names of 2020 election workers in Fulton County

Summary

A federal judge ruled that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) cannot get the names and contact details of every person who worked in Fulton County, Georgia, during the 2020 election. The judge said the DOJ’s request was too broad and not clearly linked to a real law enforcement need.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ served a grand jury subpoena in April seeking personal information of election workers and volunteers in Fulton County.
  • Fulton County asked the court to cancel the subpoena, saying it was aimed at targeting political opponents and was too broad.
  • U.S. District Judge William Ray ruled that the subpoena was unreasonable and should be canceled.
  • Judge Ray said the scope of the request for information was “staggering” and burdensome.
  • The judge noted that even if the information found wrongdoing, the law’s time limit for charges had passed.
  • The subpoena came after the FBI seized ballots and documents from the 2020 election hub in Fulton County.
  • The DOJ called the subpoena a normal step in an investigation, while Fulton County argued it would discourage people from working at elections.
  • Judge Ray said the grand jury cannot be used to get personal information without a legitimate law purpose.
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News Wrap: Judge rejects Trump's attempt to collect Georgia election worker info

News Wrap: Judge rejects Trump's attempt to collect Georgia election worker info

Summary

A federal judge blocked President Donald Trump's effort to get names and contact details of election workers in Fulton County, Georgia. Officials in New York City warned about a high-rise building's potential collapse. Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party and ally of President Trump, announced he will leave Parliament due to concerns about donations.

Key Facts

  • A federal judge denied the Trump administration's request for information about election workers in Fulton County, Georgia.
  • The information sought included names and contact details of these workers.
  • New York City officials issued a warning that a tall building may collapse.
  • Nigel Farage is the leader of the Reform UK party.
  • Nigel Farage is an ally of President Donald Trump.
  • Nigel Farage said he is resigning from the UK Parliament.
  • The reason for Farage’s resignation is related to questionable donations.
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More Democrats call for Platner to drop Maine Senate bid after sexual assault accusation

More Democrats call for Platner to drop Maine Senate bid after sexual assault accusation

Summary

Several Democrats have asked Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner to stop his campaign after a woman he once dated accused him of sexual assault. Platner denies the claim and is considering what to do next. The situation is being discussed by political commentators.

Key Facts

  • A woman who previously dated Graham Platner has accused him of sexual assault.
  • Platner has denied the accusation.
  • More Democrats are calling for Platner to end his Senate campaign in Maine.
  • Platner is currently reflecting on his next steps.
  • The issue is being covered on Maine Public Radio with commentary from Steve Mistler.
  • The incident is influencing the Maine Senate race.
  • The calls for withdrawal are growing a day after the accusation became public.
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New student loan rules could limit funding for some graduate programs

New student loan rules could limit funding for some graduate programs

Summary

The federal government is making new rules for student loans that may reduce how much money some graduate students can borrow. A judge has temporarily stopped some of these new loan limits, especially those affecting certain professional programs.

Key Facts

  • New federal student loan rules are being introduced.
  • These rules could limit the amount of money available for some graduate students.
  • The Department of Education is responsible for these changes.
  • A federal judge has temporarily blocked some of the new loan limits.
  • The blocked limits include those related to certain professional degree programs.
  • The discussion about these changes involved William Brangham and Danielle Douglas-Gabriel from The Washington Post.
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What to know about the electronic ankle monitor a French court says Marine Le Pen must wear

What to know about the electronic ankle monitor a French court says Marine Le Pen must wear

Summary

A French appeals court found Marine Le Pen guilty of embezzlement and ordered her to wear an electronic ankle monitor as part of her sentence. She plans to run for president in 2024 but may have to wear the monitor during her campaign if her appeal fails.

Key Facts

  • Marine Le Pen was convicted of embezzlement by a Paris appeals court.
  • The court ordered her to wear an electronic ankle monitor as part of the punishment.
  • Under French law, electronic monitoring is used to reduce prison overcrowding.
  • The monitor restricts leaving home except during authorized hours set by a judge.
  • Le Pen says she will run for president in 2024 despite the conviction and possible monitoring.
  • France’s highest court will decide on her appeal before the election.
  • If the appeal fails, a judge will set the details of her monitoring and permitted movements.
  • Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy also wore an electronic monitor after a corruption conviction.
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