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Do it at home too, women tell Japanese fans who cleaned World Cup stadium

Do it at home too, women tell Japanese fans who cleaned World Cup stadium

Summary

Japanese football fans are praised for cleaning up stadiums after World Cup matches, but some people criticize Japanese men for doing little housework at home. Data shows Japanese men spend much less time on chores compared to women, especially in families with young children.

Key Facts

  • Japanese football fans often clean stadiums after matches and are known for this habit.
  • Some social media users point out that Japanese men clean in public but do less housework at home.
  • A popular social media post contrasts a man picking up trash at a stadium with him relaxing at home while his wife does chores.
  • OECD data from 2021 shows Japanese women spend over 3 hours daily on unpaid work, while men spend about 47 minutes.
  • In families with children under six, women spend over 7 hours a day on chores; men spend less than 2 hours.
  • Some people criticize Japanese fans for cleaning abroad but say Japan’s public spaces often have trash after big events.
  • The stadium cleanup habit has influenced fans from other countries, like Portugal, who have also started picking up trash after games.
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Burnham says his win in Makerfield by-election could be turning point

Burnham says his win in Makerfield by-election could be turning point

Summary

Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, securing a seat in Parliament and paving the way for a possible Labour leadership challenge. In Scotland, the Conservatives won Aberdeen South, and the SNP held Arbroath and Broughty Ferry in recent by-elections.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, a seat held by Labour for 120 years.
  • Burnham plans to represent Makerfield fully and not use the seat just as a step to leadership.
  • Burnham’s win allows him to launch a leadership challenge within the Labour Party.
  • Labour’s main challenger in Makerfield was Reform UK, finishing second but over 9,000 votes behind.
  • In Aberdeen South, the Scottish Conservatives gained a seat from the SNP after more than 50 years.
  • The SNP retained Arbroath and Broughty Ferry in another Scottish by-election.
  • The by-elections reflect ongoing shifts in UK and Scottish party politics.
  • Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure to step down after poor election results.
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Norway MP’s join viral World Cup ‘Viking Row’ trend

Norway MP’s join viral World Cup ‘Viking Row’ trend

Summary

Norwegian lawmakers stopped their meeting to perform the "Viking Row" celebration, which is linked to Norway's team at the FIFA World Cup 2026. This rowing chant has become a popular way for fans to show support for Norway in various places across the Americas.

Key Facts

  • Norwegian lawmakers paused a session to do the "Viking Row" celebration.
  • The celebration is connected to Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 team.
  • The "Viking Row" is a rowing chant used by fans to support Norway.
  • Fans have performed this chant in many locations across North and South America.
  • The celebration has gone viral, meaning it has become very popular and widely shared.
  • The lawmakers’ gesture shows official support for the national team.
  • The World Cup event mentioned is scheduled for 2026.
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Cuba approves free-market reforms in effort to stave off economic collapse

Cuba approves free-market reforms in effort to stave off economic collapse

Summary

Cuba's lawmakers approved nearly 200 free-market reforms to reduce the government's control over the economy and attract investment amid a severe crisis worsened by a U.S. oil blockade. The changes allow private and foreign investment in state industries and mark the biggest economic shift since the 1959 revolution.

Key Facts

  • Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero introduced 176 economic reforms to reduce state control and encourage investments in areas like banking, tourism, and agriculture.
  • Foreign investors no longer must create joint ventures with the Cuban government, and big private businesses will be allowed.
  • The reforms were passed unanimously by Cuban lawmakers during a session where President Miguel Diaz-Canel reaffirmed commitment to socialism.
  • The U.S. oil blockade, imposed in January under President Trump, has pushed Cuba’s economy toward collapse with shortages and long power outages.
  • Diaz-Canel acknowledged internal problems like bureaucracy and delayed decisions that hurt production, in addition to external pressures.
  • The United Nations warned that shortages of medical supplies have led to child deaths in Cuba.
  • U.S. officials, including Vice President JD Vance, said Washington wants Cuba to become prosperous and are discussing political and economic changes with Cuban leaders.
  • Recent U.S. actions include indicting former Cuban President Raúl Castro and diplomatic talks aimed at expanding political dialogue.
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Ukraine urges EU to pressure Russia to end war before winter

Ukraine urges EU to pressure Russia to end war before winter

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked the European Union for urgent help with energy supplies if the war with Russia goes on through the winter. This request came after Ukraine used a large number of drones in an attack on Moscow.

Key Facts

  • President Zelenskyy spoke to the European Council about the ongoing war with Russia.
  • He said Ukraine will need energy assistance before winter arrives.
  • Ukraine recently launched one of its biggest drone attacks on Moscow.
  • The request targets pressure on Russia to end the conflict soon.
  • Energy help is critical for Ukraine as winter could worsen conditions.
  • The European Council is a key decision-making body in the EU.
  • The war between Ukraine and Russia is ongoing and affecting energy and security.
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Labour’s Andy Burnham wins a special election, setting up a showdown with Starmer to lead Britain

Labour’s Andy Burnham wins a special election, setting up a showdown with Starmer to lead Britain

Summary

Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, won a special election for a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, England. His victory sets him up as a leading challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party and the country.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election with nearly 55% of votes.
  • Burnham defeated Rob Kenyon from Reform UK, an anti-immigration party.
  • Burnham is currently the mayor of Greater Manchester and has held that role since 2017.
  • He is seen as a major contender to replace Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
  • Starmer’s popularity fell since winning a large Labour victory in 2024.
  • Labour faces challenges from both the Green Party and Reform UK.
  • Burnham plans to bring his regional leadership style, called “Manchesterism,” to the national level.
  • Burnham called for a new politics based on unity and hope, contrasting with divisive politics seen elsewhere.
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Israel strikes southern Lebanon in sudden clash surge with Hezbollah

Israel strikes southern Lebanon in sudden clash surge with Hezbollah

Summary

Israel has launched new attacks in southern Lebanon, leading to casualties among Lebanese civilians and injuries to Israeli soldiers. Rockets and helicopters were seen in the skies during the clashes near the towns of Kfar Tebnit and Ali al-Taher.

Key Facts

  • Israel conducted military strikes in southern Lebanon.
  • Lebanese civilians were reported killed during the clashes.
  • Israeli soldiers were wounded in the fighting.
  • Rockets were launched and helicopters were involved in the area.
  • The clashes took place near Kfar Tebnit and Ali al-Taher.
  • The fighting involves the group Hezbollah, based in Lebanon.
  • The situation represents a sudden rise in conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
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Starmer rival Burnham wins Makerfield as Labour leadership speculation grows

Starmer rival Burnham wins Makerfield as Labour leadership speculation grows

Summary

Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester mayor, won the Makerfield parliamentary by-election, returning to the UK Parliament. His victory strengthens his position as a leading candidate to replace Prime Minister Keir Starmer amid growing speculation about Labour’s future leadership.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham won the Makerfield seat in a by-election, defeating Rob Kenyon from Reform UK.
  • Burnham is currently the mayor of Greater Manchester and has served since 2017.
  • The win gives Burnham a platform to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour leadership.
  • Starmer’s popularity has fallen since Labour’s election win in July 2024, due to economic and public service challenges.
  • Several Labour lawmakers, including health secretary Wes Streeting, have resigned and called for Starmer’s resignation.
  • Josh Simons, former Labour MP for Makerfield, stepped down to allow Burnham to stand in the by-election.
  • Labour party rules allow a leadership challenge if 20% of MPs support it, which equals 81 lawmakers.
  • Burnham plans to expand his local "Manchesterism" political approach to the national level.
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Andy Burnham wins crucial UK by-election, in blow to Keir Starmer

Andy Burnham wins crucial UK by-election, in blow to Keir Starmer

Summary

Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, won an important by-election in northern England. His victory strengthens his position to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party and potentially become the next UK prime minister.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham won the Makerfield seat with 24,927 votes, beating his nearest rival by over 9,000 votes.
  • Burnham’s win allows him to stand against Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership.
  • Labour has faced losses in recent local elections and calls for Starmer to resign have increased.
  • About 75,000 people were eligible to vote in the Makerfield by-election.
  • Burnham has been mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017 and was re-elected in 2021 and 2024.
  • He is popular in northern England and criticizes the UK political system for focusing too much on London.
  • Burnham finished second in the 2015 Labour leadership race.
  • If Burnham replaces Starmer, he would be the UK’s seventh prime minister since the Brexit vote in 2016.
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Andy Burnham wins Makerfield byelection, paving way for Starmer leadership challenge

Andy Burnham wins Makerfield byelection, paving way for Starmer leadership challenge

Summary

Andy Burnham won the Makerfield byelection with a large majority, gaining 54% of the vote. This victory strengthens his position to challenge Keir Starmer’s leadership of the Labour Party in the UK.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham beat Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon by 9,231 votes in the Makerfield byelection.
  • Labour received 54% of the vote, Reform UK got 35%, and Restore Britain 7%.
  • Voter turnout was 58.75%, higher than the previous general election.
  • Burnham plans to use this win to push for more political power for northern England.
  • The byelection was triggered when Labour MP Josh Simons stepped down to let Burnham run.
  • Burnham is expected to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership soon.
  • Starmer has said he will not resign and intends to fight any leadership challenge.
  • Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting may also seek the Labour leadership shortly.
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Trump news at a glance: Vance uses US weaponry barbs to scold Israeli critics of Iran deal

Trump news at a glance: Vance uses US weaponry barbs to scold Israeli critics of Iran deal

Summary

JD Vance defended the US-Iran deal and criticized Israeli officials who oppose it, reminding them that much of Israel’s defense weapons come from the US. Iran plans to charge fees for ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz after a 60-day negotiation period. Meanwhile, President Trump expects a complete ceasefire between Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance defended the US-Iran agreement in response to criticism from Israeli government members.
  • Two-thirds of Israel’s defense weapons are made and paid for by the United States.
  • The US provides Israel with about $4 billion in military aid yearly.
  • Iran announced it will impose fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after negotiations end in 60 days.
  • Iranian officials said a European naval escort plan for the Strait of Hormuz is unwelcome.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu plans to maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon.
  • President Trump expects a total ceasefire involving Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah.
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EU leaders back stronger trade defences amid Chinese export surge

EU leaders back stronger trade defences amid Chinese export surge

Summary

EU leaders agreed to strengthen trade defenses against a large increase in Chinese exports, which they see as a threat to European industry. They also want to keep a positive and open dialogue with China while working to reduce the EU’s dependence on Chinese goods.

Key Facts

  • EU leaders discussed ways to protect European industries from a rise in Chinese exports.
  • The EU had a trade deficit of about 360 billion euros with China last year, meaning it bought more from China than it sold.
  • Leaders want the EU to develop new tools, like tariffs on specific sectors, to defend their trade interests.
  • Some EU countries, like France, support strong trade measures similar to those used by President Trump in the U.S.
  • Germany is cautious about harsh trade measures due to worries about retaliation but is open to new tools if needed.
  • Spain prefers balanced and friendly relations with China and seeks investment from Beijing.
  • EU officials want to maintain constructive talks with China while reducing risks from dependence.
  • Concerns about China’s control of rare earth minerals, important for electronics, are growing in Western countries.
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Middle East Live: White House says Vance not heading to Switzerland Thursday for Iran talks

Middle East Live: White House says Vance not heading to Switzerland Thursday for Iran talks

Summary

US Vice President JD Vance has postponed his trip to Switzerland for talks about the US-Iran agreement aimed at ending the war in the Middle East. Meanwhile, a US envoy said Iran will allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to inspect its nuclear sites as part of the effort to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities.

Key Facts

  • Vice President JD Vance delayed his planned visit to Switzerland for Iran talks originally set for Friday.
  • The White House said the negotiation logistics are complicated and the visit will happen as soon as possible.
  • US envoy Steve Witkoff told Congress that Iran will invite the IAEA to inspect nuclear sites and identify hidden nuclear material.
  • A side letter between Iran and the IAEA extends the invitation for inspections, allowing US nuclear inspectors access to Tehran.
  • Senators want to block Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel funds until the Pentagon releases reports on investigations, including one on an Iranian school strike.
  • President Trump and Iran’s president signed a deal to end the war in the Middle East.
  • Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, and the US lifted its naval blockade on Iranian ports.
  • Oil prices dropped more than 3% after the announcement of the deal and reopening of the strait.
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Remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur flood homes and force evacuations in Gulf states

Remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur flood homes and force evacuations in Gulf states

Summary

The remains of Tropical Storm Arthur caused heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding in parts of Louisiana and Mississippi. The storm resulted in flooded homes, water rescues, evacuations, and one death during cleanup efforts.

Key Facts

  • Tropical Storm Arthur was the first Atlantic storm of the season and quickly weakened but still caused major flooding.
  • Over 2 feet of rain fell in parts of rural Louisiana in 48 hours, with heavy rain especially on Thursday.
  • At least 200 homes flooded in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.
  • Floodwaters trapped people in a Mississippi campground, requiring rescuers to break into RVs to save them.
  • Mississippi officials evacuated 30 homes near a dam due to fears the rising water could damage the structure.
  • One worker died during storm cleanup in southwestern Mississippi.
  • Four tornadoes were confirmed, including one in Avoyelles Parish and three near New Orleans.
  • Local residents rescued animals and workers stranded by floodwaters, while cleanup continued.
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UK actress charged with importing meth worth almost A$300m into Australia

UK actress charged with importing meth worth almost A$300m into Australia

Summary

A British actress, Emaa Hussen, has been charged in Australia for trying to smuggle 320 kilograms of methamphetamine worth nearly A$300 million hidden inside bags of charcoal from Ghana. She appeared in a Sydney court and was refused bail; two other people in South Australia were also charged in connection with the case.

Key Facts

  • Emaa Hussen, 34, acted in an Eastenders spin-off and the movie Hummingbird.
  • Police say she tried to import 320 kg of meth, worth about A$296 million, hidden in charcoal bags.
  • The drugs came from Ghana and were shipped to Sydney’s Port Botany.
  • Customs found the drugs using X-rays and chemical tests before delivery.
  • Hussen was caught supervising the unloading of the charcoal bags in Sydney.
  • Police arrested two other people in Adelaide linked to renting storage units using fake IDs.
  • The seizure stopped about 3.2 million potential drug deals in Australia.
  • Hussen will return to court in August and faces life in prison if convicted.
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EU won’t lift key Iran sanctions until formal nuclear deal reached

EU won’t lift key Iran sanctions until formal nuclear deal reached

Summary

The European Union (EU) will not remove important sanctions on Iran until they reach a formal agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. The EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, also said that sanctions related to human rights issues will remain in place.

Key Facts

  • The EU has sanctions in place against Iran.
  • These sanctions include those targeting Iran’s nuclear activities.
  • The EU wants a formal nuclear deal before lifting these key sanctions.
  • Kaja Kallas is the EU’s foreign policy chief.
  • Kallas said human rights sanctions against Iran will continue regardless of nuclear talks.
  • The sanctions aim to pressure Iran on its nuclear program and human rights record.
  • No timeline was given for when a formal nuclear deal might happen.
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Colombia sees new peace breakthrough as 100 rebels hand over arms

Colombia sees new peace breakthrough as 100 rebels hand over arms

Summary

About 100 rebels from a Colombian guerrilla group surrendered their weapons in the southern Putumayo province under a peace deal with President Gustavo Petro. This move is part of Petro's "total peace" plan and comes just before the country’s presidential runoff election.

Key Facts

  • 99 rebels from the National Coordinating Committee of the Bolivarian Army handed over their arms.
  • The event took place in the southern region of Putumayo.
  • The rebels wore camouflage and placed their weapons in a large container with a peace message.
  • These guerrillas split from the FARC group, which disarmed in 2016 after decades of conflict.
  • Their disarmament is the first success of Petro's peace plan since coming to office.
  • President Gustavo Petro aims for peace with armed groups in Colombia.
  • Colombia will hold a presidential runoff election three days after the rebels surrendered.
  • The election will decide Petro’s successor; Petro will hand over power on August 7.
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SNP concedes Aberdeen South with Scottish Conservatives set to win

SNP concedes Aberdeen South with Scottish Conservatives set to win

Summary

The Scottish National Party (SNP) lost the Aberdeen South seat to the Scottish Conservatives in a recent election. The byelection happened because the previous SNP MP, Stephen Flynn, left to join the Scottish Parliament.

Key Facts

  • Aberdeen South was previously held by the SNP before the recent loss.
  • Stephen Flynn gave up the Aberdeen South seat to become a member of the Scottish Parliament (Holyrood).
  • The Scottish Conservatives have gained a Westminster byelection seat only five times this century.
  • Flynn had won Aberdeen South in the 2024 general election with 3,758 more votes than others.
  • The Conservatives focused heavily on the election, including visits by UK party leader Kemi Badenoch.
  • The campaign highlighted issues such as increasing oil and gas production in the North Sea.
  • Some voters may have been influenced by a scandal involving the theft of £400,000 from the SNP, linked to former party chief Peter Murrell.
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Zimbabwe bill to scrap presidential elections sparks backlash

Zimbabwe bill to scrap presidential elections sparks backlash

Summary

Zimbabwean lawmakers have passed a bill proposing to stop direct presidential elections and let parliament choose the president instead. Supporters say this will help keep steady policies, while critics worry it will reduce democracy and increase the ruling party’s control.

Key Facts

  • The bill would replace direct presidential elections with a vote by members of parliament (both Senate and National Assembly together).
  • On June 1, the National Assembly approved the bill with 216 votes for and 42 against.
  • The bill now goes to the Senate, where it is expected to pass with the needed two-thirds majority.
  • Justice Minister Ziyambi said the bill does not extend presidential terms or postpone elections and does not concentrate power in the president’s hands.
  • Critics believe the bill would strengthen President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s power and may allow him to stay in office beyond 2028.
  • Supporters, including members of both the ruling party ZANU-PF and some opposition, argue the change will support long-term development plans.
  • ZANU-PF has ruled Zimbabwe since independence in 1980; Mnangagwa became president in 2017 after Robert Mugabe stepped down.
  • Some activists warn the amendment will weaken democracy, worsen economic conditions, and deepen one-party dominance.
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'Toddler critical' and 'cost of living hope'

'Toddler critical' and 'cost of living hope'

Summary

A three-year-old boy in Cambridgeshire was seriously injured after being thrown into a crocodile enclosure by a man unknown to him. The police have arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder. Other news includes the Bank of England holding interest rates steady and discussions about inflation, UK infrastructure costs, and international events related to Russia and Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • A 3-year-old boy was critically injured at Johnsons zoo in Cambridgeshire after entering a crocodile enclosure.
  • Police arrested a 30-year-old man from Norfolk on suspicion of attempted murder connected to the incident.
  • The boy was pulled from the enclosure by the zoo owner’s wife.
  • The Bank of England kept interest rates at 3.75% due to eased inflation risks after a US-Iran deal lowered oil prices.
  • Inflation and cost of living remain key concerns, with predictions that food prices may stabilise next year.
  • UK ministers reportedly waste around £8 billion annually by paying too much on transport and energy projects compared to other countries.
  • Kyiv experienced its biggest air raid on Moscow since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began.
  • The UK marks the 10th anniversary of the Brexit referendum with mixed opinions on future ties to the European Union.
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