At least 13 people, including a child, died in a Ukrainian drone attack on the Russian city of Nizhnekamsk, which has a major oil refinery. The attack injured 39 others and targeted industrial and civilian sites, leading Russia to open a criminal investigation calling it a terrorist act. Meanwhile, fighting continued in Ukraine, including a deadly Russian artillery attack in Kharkiv.
Key Facts
The drone attack happened in Nizhnekamsk, Russia, about 800 km east of Moscow.
At least 13 people died, including a child, and 39 others were injured.
The attack targeted an oil facility important to Russia’s fuel exports.
Russia said it intercepted more than 450 Ukrainian drones overnight.
Russia is treating the strike as a terrorist attack and launched a criminal investigation.
A day of mourning was declared in the Tatarstan region after the attack.
Ukraine said the attacks aim to disrupt Russia’s war economy by hitting fuel production.
In eastern Ukraine, Russian artillery killed at least five civilians in the Kharkiv region.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said attacks on Russian refineries will continue and mentioned upcoming peace talks and new air defense help.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Chessington World of Adventures theme park in south-west London closed for one day due to a local water outage. The park offered ticket refunds or reuse for visitors who planned to attend on that day.
Key Facts
Chessington World of Adventures closed on Monday, 10 August.
The closure was caused by a water outage in the surrounding area.
The park did not specify the cause of the water outage or when it would reopen.
Tickets for the day were refunded or could be used on another day.
The closure happened during the school summer holidays, a busy time for theme parks.
The park apologized for the inconvenience and thanked visitors for understanding.
Chessington previously closed for one day in July 2018 due to a burst water main nearby.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Fighting between the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and Saudi Arabia has increased, threatening a 2022 ceasefire in Yemen. The conflict started after a Saudi airstrike blocked an Iranian flight carrying Houthi leaders, leading to fears of a larger regional war.
Key Facts
The 2022 truce in Yemen risks collapse due to new violence between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.
The conflict escalated after Saudi forces struck Sanaa airport to stop an Iranian flight with Houthi officials.
Houthis tried to challenge Saudi control by sending a flight without coalition permission, a long-standing wartime rule.
The Saudi-led coalition eventually let the plane land in Hodeida after mediation by Oman.
Houthis rejected an offer to use a non-Iranian airline to travel to Sanaa.
The Iranian flight was operated by Mahan Air, a private airline under U.S. sanctions.
The UN envoy warned the conflict may worsen and draw Yemen into a bigger regional fight.
Talks are ongoing to reduce tensions, but fears of large-scale war remain high.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Iran says it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the United States meets its demands, including lifting sanctions and ending a blockade of Iranian ports. Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched attacks on a Red Sea port and Saudi Arabia, and Israel declared a Christian-majority town in the West Bank a closed military zone to prevent settler violence.
Key Facts
Iran requires the U.S. to lift economic sanctions, end the blockade of its ports, pay compensation for war damages, and release frozen assets before reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial shipping lane that carries about 20% of the world’s traded oil.
Iran is having talks with Oman about managing the strait and possibly creating a temporary shipping corridor.
Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels attacked the government-held port of Mokha on the Red Sea and an oil facility in Saudi Arabia.
The Yemeni military responded to the Houthi attacks, raising fears of renewed civil war fighting.
Israel’s military declared the Christian town of Taybeh in the West Bank a closed military zone to prevent attacks by Israeli settlers.
Taybeh has experienced arson, vandalism, and unauthorized entry by settlers in recent months.
These events together show rising tensions and conflicts in the Middle East region.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A 2,100-year-old Roman shipwreck was found 3 miles off the coast of Sicily carrying about 500 ancient ceramic jars called amphorae, used mainly to transport wine. Italian cultural police and divers discovered the wreck at a depth of 46 meters and are planning further research to learn more about its history and protect the site.
Key Facts
The shipwreck is about 2,100 years old and lies 3 miles from Mazara del Vallo, Sicily.
It carried around 500 amphorae, two-handled ceramic jars used mainly for carrying wine.
The wreck is about 21 meters long and 6 meters wide, found at a depth of 46 meters.
Italian cultural heritage police, the Carabinieri, investigated the site with divers and underwater cameras.
Most amphorae are Dressel 1A types, valuable for studying ancient Mediterranean trade routes.
Sicily’s sea superintendency will continue research to date the wreck and identify the cargo’s origin and destination.
The area around Sicily is known for many important ancient shipwrecks due to its position on old trade routes.
Recent similar discoveries include Roman shipwrecks near Palermo (2021) and Liguria (2013).
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Police in Jharkhand, India, used tear gas, water cannons, and batons to stop thousands of protesters demanding changes to government recruitment exams. The protests began after allegations of cheating and leaked exam answers, leading to arrests and government actions like canceling some exams and official resignations.
Key Facts
Thousands of students and job seekers have protested for over two weeks in Jharkhand’s capital, Ranchi.
Police tried to stop the crowd from reaching the state assembly using tear gas, water cannons, and batons.
Some protesters threw stones, and three police officers were injured during the clashes.
The protest is about alleged cheating in recent government exams, with leaked answers causing suspicion.
The state government canceled the controversial exams and accepted resignations of several officials, including the head of the exam commission.
Investigations are ongoing by local police and a special crime department; some suspects have been arrested.
Protesters want further investigation by India's top federal agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Despite talks and some government concessions, protesters say they will continue until all demands are met.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Farmers’ Almanac predicts a varied winter in the U.S. for 2026-27, with wetter weather likely in the Southern states and colder periods in the northern areas. The Northeast may experience a mix of rain, ice, and snow, while the Pacific Northwest and northern Plains could see less predictable snow and drier conditions in some spots.
Key Facts
El Niño, a weather pattern caused by warmer Pacific Ocean waters, is expected to influence the winter season.
The Southern U.S. from Southern California through the Gulf Coast to the Southeast is forecasted to have frequent storms and wet conditions.
Cold air combined with moisture might cause sleet, freezing rain, or heavy wet snow in some southern parts.
Northern regions like the West, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes should see near-normal temperatures but should prepare for short cold spells and quick snow events.
The Northeast could face complicated weather, with coastal areas likely to get rain or mixed precipitation and inland areas possibly receiving heavy wet snow.
The Pacific Northwest may have a more variable winter with less reliable snow.
Some northern Plains and Upper Midwest areas might be drier due to the dominant southern storm track but will still face brief intense winter storms.
The Farmers’ Almanac uses a mix of traditional cycles and modern data like satellites and computer models to make these forecasts.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
New rules in Great Britain allow the national electricity system operator to quickly cut power to certain areas to prevent widespread blackouts when energy supplies are low. These rolling blackouts could last up to three hours and affect millions of homes and businesses, but critical sites like hospitals will be protected.
Key Facts
The system operator can now order short-notice rotating power cuts to reduce electricity use by over 20% in specific areas.
These blackouts could last up to three hours and rotate across the country to minimize disruption.
This is the first time the operator can do this without needing emergency government powers.
The rules aim to prevent a total collapse of the electricity grid during supply shortages.
Critical infrastructure such as hospitals and water treatment plants will not be cut off.
The measure is only to be used as a last resort after all other options are tried.
The new rules were quietly approved by the industry regulator at the end of last month.
The changes respond to increasing challenges in balancing short-term electricity supply and demand.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Large wildfires are burning across western Canada and the northwestern United States, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate. British Columbia has declared a state of emergency due to the fires, while firefighters in Washington state work to contain multiple large fires near Spokane.
Key Facts
Over 100 active wildfires are burning in British Columbia, many out of control.
The Bald Range Fire in British Columbia’s Okanagan region has caused the largest evacuations, displacing more than 20,000 people.
British Columbia’s government declared a province-wide state of emergency due to wildfire threats.
An 80-year-old woman died fleeing the Bald Range Fire, the first known death linked to the evacuations.
In eastern Washington, three major fires near Spokane have burned over 10,200 acres and damaged or destroyed about 921 buildings.
About 65,000 people have been evacuated near Spokane, with over 1,500 firefighters from 24 states assisting.
A Spokane man was charged with arson related to one of the fires.
Smoke from the fires is reducing air quality across large areas of the western U.S., prompting health advisories.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
In July, the world's oceans hit their highest recorded temperatures, partly due to El Niño conditions combined with global warming. Western Europe experienced its hottest June and July on record, with droughts and wildfires affecting several countries.
Key Facts
The average ocean temperature between 60° north and 60° south was 20.96°C in July, breaking the previous record from 2023.
El Niño is a natural weather event in the Pacific that, when combined with climate change, can cause higher temperatures and extreme weather.
July 2026 was the joint second warmest July on Earth, with global temperatures 1.47°C above pre-industrial levels.
Sea temperatures along Europe’s Atlantic coast and western Mediterranean reached record highs, causing marine heatwaves.
Western Europe had its hottest June and July ever, causing droughts and extreme wildfires in France, Spain, Germany, and the UK.
Several major rivers like the Seine, Rhine, and Danube recorded very low water levels due to drought.
Oceans absorb most of the heat from greenhouse gases and produce half of Earth’s oxygen. Warmer oceans absorb less carbon dioxide, increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Climate experts say climate change is making heatwaves and droughts worse, which in turn increase the risk of wildfires.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Western Europe experienced its hottest June and July on record, with temperatures much higher than usual. The heat caused severe drought, low river water levels, and large wildfires in several countries.
Key Facts
The average temperature in Western Europe for June and July was 21.62°C (70.9°F), which is 2.79°C (5.01°F) above normal and higher than the 2022 record.
Three months in a row of extreme heat led to the new temperature record for the region.
Soil moisture was much lower than in July 2022, worsening drought conditions.
Rivers like the Seine, Rhine, and Danube had very low water levels, affecting water supplies and power plants in Hungary and Slovenia.
France and Spain faced record drought, causing huge wildfires that burned tens of thousands of hectares and forced many people to evacuate.
Wildfire smoke can travel far and impact air quality in other countries.
Sea surface temperatures outside the polar regions reached their highest levels on record in July 2026.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A British couple, Craig and Lindsay Foreman, imprisoned in Iran on spying charges, ended their hunger strikes after nearly three months. They protested mistreatment in prison and the inability to contact their families.
Key Facts
Craig and Lindsay Foreman were arrested in January 2025 in Iran during a motorcycle trip.
They both received 10-year prison sentences for alleged espionage, which they deny.
Craig's sentence was reportedly increased by two years after he spoke to the media.
The couple started hunger strikes in May due to harsh prison conditions and lack of family contact.
Craig’s hunger strike lasted 93 days, Lindsay’s 84 days, during which they mostly consumed milk, honey, or salt water.
Five people outside the prison joined the hunger strike in solidarity during the last five days.
The couple’s family met UK officials to discuss the case, and talks were described as positive.
They hope their release will happen soon so they can return home.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a US-supported 15-point peace plan for Gaza, saying Hamas must disarm fully before any agreement can proceed. Tensions in the region continue, with Iran making strict demands about the Strait of Hormuz and attacks reported by Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Key Facts
Netanyahu publicly opposed a US-backed peace plan that required Hamas to disarm in exchange for Israel withdrawing from Gaza.
The US plan proposed a step-by-step approach, but Netanyahu insisted on full Hamas disarmament first.
Iran demanded changes from the US before reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for oil shipping.
The UAE reported one of its ships was hit by an Iranian missile recently.
The Tehran-aligned Houthis in Yemen claimed responsibility for an attack on a Saudi refinery.
The conflict has trapped about 20,000 seafarers, mostly Indian and Filipino, in the Strait of Hormuz, causing deaths and uncertainty.
US Senate leaders and legal experts discussed possible threats to the integrity of upcoming elections amid concerns about interference.
President Trump has criticized election procedures and pushed for new voting restrictions, including banning mail-in ballots nationwide.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Lucy Harrison, a 23-year-old British woman, was fatally shot by her father in Texas in January 2025. Her mother has asked UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband to urge US authorities to reopen the investigation after a British coroner ruled the death unlawful.
Key Facts
Lucy Harrison was shot dead by her father, Kris Harrison, during a visit to Texas.
The shooting happened on 10 January 2025, one day before Lucy was due to return to the UK.
Kris Harrison admitted holding the gun but was never arrested.
A Texas grand jury decided not to prosecute him, citing no proven intent.
The British coroner ruled the death as unlawful killing and described it as gross negligence manslaughter.
Lucy’s mother, Jane Coates, has written to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband to ask for diplomatic pressure on the US to reopen the case.
UK politicians, including Robert Buckland, support reopening the investigation and question the original police work.
Texas gun laws do not require training or a license for owners over 21, and Kris Harrison legally bought the pistol years before.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced they will not allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen unless the United States meets certain demands. One key demand is that the U.S. pay compensation for past war damages.
Key Facts
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards control access to the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil shipping.
They stated the strait will remain closed until the U.S. follows a list of demands.
The demands include payment from the U.S. for damage caused by previous conflicts.
The Strait of Hormuz is strategically important for international trade and oil exports.
This announcement adds tension to already strained relations between Iran and the U.S.
Experts are discussing whether Iran’s demands represent a strong negotiating position or a form of surrender.
The news raises concerns about potential impacts on global energy markets.
The situation is being monitored by international security and geopolitical analysts.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Anas al-Sharif, a journalist from Gaza, was killed one year ago in an Israeli air strike on a press tent near a hospital. He was known for reporting on the effects of the Israeli attacks on Gaza and is remembered by Palestinians and press freedom supporters.
Key Facts
Anas al-Sharif was a journalist born in 1996 in the Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza.
He worked for Al Jazeera and gained recognition across the Arab world.
Al-Sharif was killed in an Israeli air strike on a press tent near al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.
The attack also killed three other journalists: Mohammed Qreiqeh, Ibrahim Zaher, and Mohammed Noufal.
The United Nations and human rights groups condemned the killings.
The deaths are seen as part of a wider pattern of attacks on media workers in Gaza.
Before his death, al-Sharif recorded a will asking people to remember Gaza and defend Palestine.
Memorials and online posts continue to honor his work and legacy one year after his death.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Mohsen Rezaei, a former leader of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has been appointed secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. This role is important for Iran’s security and foreign policy, especially during current tensions involving the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing talks with the United States and Israel.
Key Facts
Mohsen Rezaei led the IRGC from 1981 to 1997, including during the Iran-Iraq War.
He has been appointed as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, a key body for Iran’s security decisions.
Rezaei replaces Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, who is now an adviser to Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
The previous secretary, Ali Larijani, was killed in a US-Israeli strike in March.
Rezaei emphasizes the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas shipments.
Iran and the US have imposed naval blockades in the region amid ongoing conflict.
The appointment reflects Rezaei’s military, economic, and political experience and aims to help coordinate different parts of Iran’s government.
Rezaei’s role is significant for Iran’s negotiations with the US and domestic political balance during a time of conflict.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Amanda Knox is facing criticism from Meredith Kercher’s sister for her comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe festival, which some say makes light of violence against women. Knox is defending her show against these accusations.
Key Facts
Amanda Knox is performing a comedy show at the Edinburgh Fringe festival in Scotland.
Meredith Kercher’s sister has criticized the show for trivializing violence against women.
The controversy centers on how the show handles sensitive topics related to Knox’s past.
Knox is actively defending her comedy show against the accusations.
The Edinburgh Fringe festival is known for hosting a wide variety of performances including comedy.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Daniel Kinahan, suspected leader of an Irish crime gang, was sent from Dubai to Ireland to face charges. He is accused of running a large international drug smuggling and money laundering operation involving Britain, Spain, and the United States.
Key Facts
Daniel Kinahan was extradited from Dubai to Dublin on October 8, 2026.
He is suspected of leading an organized crime group in Ireland.
The group is involved in drug smuggling and money laundering across multiple countries.
Kinahan was arrested in Dubai in April 2026.
The United States named him as one of three leaders of the Kinahan Organized Crime Group in 2022.
US authorities offered a $5 million reward for his arrest.
The crime group operates in Britain, Spain, and the United States as well as Ireland.
Kinahan appeared before the Special Criminal Court in Dublin after his extradition.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Melissa Donnelly will become the new leader of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU), replacing Sally McManus who resigned after eight years. Donnelly has led the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) for seven years and is known for supporting workers’ rights and flexible work policies.
Key Facts
Melissa Donnelly, currently the national secretary of the CPSU, was elected as the next ACTU secretary.
Sally McManus and President Michele O’Neil, the first all-female ACTU leadership team, stepped down after eight years.
Donnelly is 44 years old and will be one of the youngest leaders of the ACTU.
She has a background as a lawyer and started the CPSU’s legal case supporting public servants’ workplace rights.
During Donnelly’s leadership, CPSU membership grew by 23%, and flexible working conditions were improved.
The CPSU has campaigned to reverse government outsourcing of public service jobs to private firms.
Donnelly and Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher have worked closely to strengthen public service delivery.
Sally McManus endorsed Donnelly, highlighting her connection to typical union members and her focus on workers’ needs.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
