The United States has carried out daily bombings on Iran’s civilian sites for 13 nights. Iran responded by attacking US allies in the Gulf. President Donald Trump has warned of increasing the attacks, raising concerns about a wider war between the two countries.
Key Facts
The US bombed Iranian civilian infrastructure such as bridges, airports, electrical plants, and a desalination facility.
These attacks occurred over 13 consecutive nights.
Iran retaliated by striking civilian infrastructure of US allies in the Gulf region.
President Donald Trump threatened to escalate US attacks even more.
There is a risk that the conflict could turn into a full-scale war.
The article discusses the historical background that shapes the current tensions between the US and Iran.
The discussion involves experts analyzing the situation on a news program called UpFront.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The United Nations human rights chief called on Israel to stop occupying parts of southern Lebanon and to end the demolition of homes there. This statement came just before Lebanese and Israeli officials are set to hold talks to implement a deal involving troop withdrawals and disarmament efforts.
Key Facts
UN human rights chief Volker Türk visited Lebanon to meet officials and displaced people from the war involving Israel and Hezbollah.
Talks between Lebanon and Israel are scheduled to begin soon in Rome to enforce a framework deal made in June.
The deal plans for Lebanese troops to deploy in southern Lebanon and for Israel to withdraw its forces; Hezbollah is expected to disarm but refuses.
Volker Türk said some Israeli actions might be considered war crimes, highlighting widespread destruction of civilian homes.
Israel claims its military targets Hezbollah fighters and weapons hidden among civilians.
The recent conflict began after Hezbollah fired rockets following U.S.-Israeli attacks linked to the Iran war.
Over 4,000 people were killed and 1.2 million displaced during the fighting in Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun supports the agreement but warns Israeli occupation and demolitions may harm the peace process.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham met Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his first week in office, signaling strong UK support for Ukraine. Unlike his predecessor Keir Starmer, who focused heavily on international visits, Burnham plans to prioritize domestic issues but will delegate foreign affairs to his team.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham met President Zelenskyy at a naval base in Portsmouth soon after becoming UK prime minister.
Burnham promised full UK support for Ukraine and to honor all commitments made by the country.
Keir Starmer, the previous prime minister, made Ukraine relations a key part of his time in office, visiting Ukraine and hosting Zelenskyy multiple times.
Starmer received a medal for helping keep the US involved in supporting Ukraine, including influencing President Trump.
Critics said Starmer focused too much on international issues and not enough on UK domestic matters.
Burnham wants to focus mostly on UK domestic issues but will take part in important international matters when necessary.
Burnham plans to rely on his foreign secretary, Ed Miliband, and senior advisers for managing foreign affairs.
Labour party members believe strong leaders should delegate foreign matters and trust their teams.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Turk, said many Lebanese families have had to move several times because of Israeli bombings. He called for a ceasefire so these families can safely go back to their homes.
Key Facts
Israeli bombings forced many Lebanese families to leave their homes multiple times.
This repeated displacement has caused exhaustion and trauma among these families.
Volker Turk is the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
He spoke about the situation during an interview with Al Jazeera.
He urged for the ceasefire to continue to allow displaced families to return safely.
The displaced people in Lebanon are facing difficult and stressful conditions.
The call highlights the human impact of the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, which connects Detroit in the United States and Windsor in Canada, has opened to vehicles and will open to cyclists and pedestrians soon. The bridge was meant to show cooperation between the two countries but instead highlights rising trade tensions after President Donald Trump imposed high tariffs on Canadian goods.
Key Facts
The bridge stretches 1.5 miles between Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario.
It opened for cars to cross, with cyclists and pedestrians allowed from August 5.
Canada did not invite U.S. officials to the bridge’s opening ceremony.
This exclusion was a response to President Trump’s 50% tariffs on Canadian items.
Canada introduced its own taxes on U.S. products like cars, alcohol, and cheese.
The bridge was planned as a symbol of friendly cooperation between the U.S. and Canada.
Instead, it now represents growing trade conflicts between the two neighbors.
The tensions come amid a broader trade dispute affecting both countries’ economies.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Singer Carly Simon revealed she has Parkinson's disease and was recently treated for skin cancer on her face. She is undergoing treatment for her Parkinson's symptoms and will release a new album in August.
Key Facts
Carly Simon, age 83, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease after tests at the Mayo Clinic.
She had joint replacement surgeries due to arthritis before her Parkinson's diagnosis.
Parkinson's causes problems with movement, including tremors, stiffness, and balance issues.
About 1 million people in the U.S. have Parkinson's, and 10 million worldwide.
There is no cure, but medications and therapies can help people manage symptoms.
Simon also had basal cell carcinoma, a common skin cancer, removed from her face through surgery.
Her new album, "Comes in Waves," will be released on August 14 and is her first since 2008.
Simon said making music helped her cope with the effects of her illness.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Thousands of people from across Europe are traveling to Prague to watch Christopher Nolan’s film "The Odyssey" on a rare 70 mm IMAX screen, which offers a unique and high-quality viewing experience. Prague is one of the few places in the world with this type of screen, and the film has sold out many showings due to high demand.
Key Facts
Prague has one of only 41 70 mm IMAX screens worldwide and three in the European Union.
Christopher Nolan filmed "The Odyssey" entirely with IMAX cameras, a rare and costly format.
Cinema City in the Czech Republic offers 4-5 daily screenings of the film, many sold out.
By July 27, about 22,000 people from around 15 European countries came to see the movie in Prague.
Fans travel long distances, some up to three days, to watch the film on this rare format.
The IMAX format is known for a larger screen and higher-quality images, enhancing movie experiences.
Nolan calls the 70 mm IMAX the "best possible experience" for watching films.
The heavy and noisy IMAX cameras required new technology to be practical for filming.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said the United States will not send uranium enrichment technology to Saudi Arabia as part of a recent nuclear deal. The deal might let Saudi Arabia enrich uranium in the future, but the U.S. will not provide the equipment or capability for that process.
Key Facts
Mike Waltz is the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
He spoke about a new nuclear agreement involving Saudi Arabia.
The U.S. will not supply uranium enrichment technology to Saudi Arabia.
The deal could eventually allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium on its own.
Uranium enrichment is a process that makes nuclear fuel usable for energy or weapons.
There are concerns about nuclear capabilities expanding in the Persian Gulf region.
Waltz made these clarifications on Sunday morning TV shows.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Experts say Europe's recent wildfires are mainly caused by climate change and failures in how forests and landscapes are managed. These fires are not unexpected, as scientists have warned for many years about the impact of rising temperatures and droughts on fire risks.
Key Facts
Europe's wildfires have increased in size and frequency in recent years.
Climate change has caused more extreme heat and drought, making fires worse.
Fire experts say poor forest and land management contributed to the crisis.
Scientists have warned about the risk of these fires for decades.
The wildfire problem calls for a new way to care for forests and natural areas.
Large evacuations have been needed in countries like Spain and France due to fires.
The fire season is getting longer across many parts of Europe.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Comedian Jeff Arcuri became popular on social media after many years of performing live comedy. He discusses his first stand-up special called "Jeff Arcuri: Nice to Meet You" and shares stories about his experiences with live audiences.
Key Facts
Jeff Arcuri has performed in comedy clubs for over ten years.
He gained a large following on social media platforms.
Arcuri released his debut comedy special titled "Jeff Arcuri: Nice to Meet You."
The special introduces his comedy to a wider audience.
He talks about moments when interacting directly with the crowd did not go as planned.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Saudi Arabia said it stopped drone attacks on its oil facilities and the capital, Riyadh, blaming armed groups supported by Iran in Iraq. Yemen’s Houthi rebels also claimed they targeted Saudi oil transport routes, but it is unclear if the two attacks were planned together. Other countries like Jordan and Iraq reported similar drone attacks on the same day.
Key Facts
Saudi Arabia intercepted drones targeting oil sites in its eastern area and Riyadh.
Saudi’s Foreign Ministry said it may respond to the attacks and blamed Iran-backed groups in Iraq.
Yemen’s Houthi rebels said they attacked Saudi crude oil transportation.
It is unknown if the Saudi and Houthi attacks were connected or separate.
The attacks come during reduced fighting between the US and Iran, with talks possibly resuming.
The US has paused strikes on Iran, and Iran says it has paused attacks on US allies in the Gulf.
Jordan shot down two drones on the same day, and Iraq reported attacks on camps for Iranian-Kurdish fighters.
Nine Houthi fighters were killed recently in fighting against Yemeni government forces backed by Saudi Arabia.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The conflict between the United States and Iran has slowed down as both sides try to resolve issues through regional mediators. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is sharing computer-made images related to the conflict, and energy markets are looking for other options due to ongoing problems in the Strait of Hormuz.
Key Facts
Fighting between the US and Iran has decreased recently.
Both countries are using local mediators to help with talks and peaceful solutions.
President Donald Trump is sharing images created by artificial intelligence (AI) about the conflict.
The crisis is affecting energy markets, which are seeking alternative sources or routes.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical area with ongoing tensions that impact global energy supplies.
Al Jazeera reporter Marah Rayan has provided coverage and explanation of the situation.
The focus is now partly on diplomacy rather than active military conflict.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the United Kingdom. President Zelenskyy is the first foreign leader to visit since Burnham became prime minister.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is the new prime minister of the United Kingdom.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the UK on Monday.
This was Zelenskyy’s first visit to the UK since Burnham’s appointment.
President Zelenskyy is the first international guest received by Burnham.
The visit highlights diplomatic relations between the UK and Ukraine.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Large wildfires are burning near Bordeaux in southwest France and west of Madrid in Spain, forcing many people to evacuate. Authorities warn the fires are severe, partly caused by human carelessness, and the hot weather is making firefighting harder.
Key Facts
A wildfire is about 9 miles from the city of Bordeaux, France, and may cause further evacuations.
Over 220,000 people have been evacuated in France and more than 100,000 in Spain due to wildfires.
The fire near Bordeaux has burned around 42,000 hectares (about 103,000 acres) and destroyed 240 houses.
French officials say most wildfires are caused by human carelessness, including cigarette butts and barbecues, with some fires deliberately set.
Since July 6, 162 people have been arrested in France related to fire setting.
Spain declared a national emergency as fires west of Madrid spread across more than 27,000 hectares.
Europe is the fastest-warming continent, with heatwaves and dry conditions increasing wildfire risk.
French Prime Minister and President have visited affected areas to support firefighting and response efforts.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
More than three years into Sudan's war, over 4 million people have fled to neighboring countries seeking safety. The 1951 Refugee Convention, created 75 years ago, helps protect people fleeing violence by allowing them to seek asylum and access aid and services. However, the ongoing crisis in Sudan and limited resources challenge these protections.
Key Facts
Sudan’s war has lasted more than three years and caused millions to flee their homes.
Over 4 million Sudanese refugees have crossed international borders to escape violence.
The 1951 Refugee Convention guarantees the right to seek asylum and not be returned to danger.
Refugees gain legal status, protection, and access to education, health care, and economic opportunities through this convention.
Neighboring countries like Chad and South Sudan host large numbers of Sudanese refugees, despite their own challenges.
Humanitarian groups face funding shortages, leading to cuts in essential aid for refugees, especially women and children.
The UN calls for stronger international support to help countries hosting refugees and to uphold the protections promised by the convention.
Lasting peace in Sudan is necessary for refugees to safely return and rebuild their lives.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Osama bin Laden once said people prefer the strong side over the weak side. This idea might explain why some in the MAGA movement, who were strongly against helping Ukraine defend itself from Russia, have recently changed their views and now support Ukraine.
Key Facts
Osama bin Laden said in 2001 that people naturally support the strong side.
Some MAGA supporters, like Laura Loomer and Tim Pool, once opposed U.S. aid to Ukraine.
Recently, Loomer admitted she was misled by Russian propaganda and met Ukrainian President Zelensky.
Tim Pool, who called Ukraine an enemy in 2024, now supports Ukrainian victory against Russia.
Ukraine has launched successful attacks on Russian oil refineries, creating problems for Russia.
Russia’s economy is struggling with low growth forecasts and high inflation.
Russian military losses are high, with more casualties than new recruits.
Vladimir Putin is losing support among Russians according to recent polls.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Funding for fighting HIV around the world dropped sharply in 2025 because the United States reduced its financial support. Reports from health organizations warn that this decrease could undo years of progress in controlling HIV.
Key Facts
Global funding to combat HIV decreased significantly in 2025.
The drop in funding is entirely due to reduced U.S. contributions.
Reports were released by KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) and UNAIDS.
These reports were presented at the International AIDS Conference.
Reduced funding puts progress made over decades at risk.
HIV response efforts rely heavily on U.S. financial support.
The reports highlight concerns about the future of HIV treatment and prevention programs worldwide.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry shared vacation photos on Instagram showing visits to Princess Diana’s family estate and a trip to Portugal. Despite media predictions about their travel, no paparazzi photos of the family appeared in newspapers or magazines during their trip.
Key Facts
Meghan Markle posted 12 vacation photos on Instagram including visits to a restaurant in Portugal and Princess Diana’s grave at Althorp House.
The family visited places near properties owned by Princess Eugenie, Prince Harry’s cousin.
Tabloids had predicted their trip to Portugal and Althorp weeks before it happened.
No paparazzi photos of the family were published during the vacation, even though paparazzi were nearby.
The Sussexes continue to protect their children’s privacy by not showing their faces in public photos.
Althorp House was closed to the public during Harry’s visit, likely to maintain privacy.
The family’s ability to avoid paparazzi contrasts with Prince Harry’s earlier lawsuit about media harassment.
Meghan and Harry’s trip reflects ongoing efforts to manage how the media covers them.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Laura Loomer, a supporter of President Donald Trump known for spreading conspiracy theories, has changed her view on Russia’s war in Ukraine after visiting the country. She now warns conservatives about Russian propaganda and supports Ukraine, saying her visit helped her see the facts.
Key Facts
Laura Loomer traveled to Ukraine to see the impact of Russia’s war firsthand.
She previously spread false information about Ukraine but has now reversed her stance.
Loomer blames Russian propaganda for misleading many on the American right.
She met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other officials during her visit.
Loomer continues to say Ukraine did not pay for her trip.
She remains influential with President Trump and expects to meet him after returning.
Her new position supports Ukraine as the U.S. Congress debates sanctions on Russia.
Loomer says her change helps inform Trump supporters who believed Russian misinformation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The United Kingdom’s new prime minister, Andy Burnham, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to promise full support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. They discussed military cooperation, including a UK electronic warfare system and plans for stronger drone production, as Zelenskyy continues to seek help defending his country.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is the new UK prime minister and met with Zelenskyy for his first meeting with a foreign leader.
Burnham pledged the UK’s “unwavering support” for Ukraine and plans to visit Ukraine soon.
Zelenskyy is visiting the UK on his way to Washington to meet President Trump about ending the war with Russia.
The UK and Ukraine are cooperating on military training and exercises, including countering naval mines.
The UK will share the technology for its “Stone Cloak” system, which jams Russian air defenses to protect against drones.
Ukraine wants to increase drone production through a deal with the UK to improve air defense against Russian ballistic missiles.
The UK has provided about £25 billion ($33 billion) in total support to Ukraine since 2022, including £16 billion ($21 billion) in military aid.
Zelenskyy will attend the funeral of US Senator Lindsey Graham in the US, who supported Ukraine.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
