The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) calls for a strong system to verify Iran’s nuclear program to ensure it is not developing weapons. The United States and Iran continue talks about inspections amid conflicting statements, with Iran denying any intention to build nuclear arms.
Key Facts
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi says strong verification is needed to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities.
The US and Western allies worry Iran’s nuclear program could lead to weapons, but Iran insists its program is only for peaceful, civilian use.
Iran stopped cooperating with the IAEA after US and Israeli attacks on its nuclear sites last year but has allowed some inspectors back recently.
Iran has not permitted access to nuclear sites that were bombed, and the status of some enriched uranium is unclear.
The US and Iran disagree publicly over inspection terms, with the US saying inspections were agreed on and Iran saying they are still being negotiated.
President Donald Trump claims Iran has agreed to the highest level of nuclear inspections, while Iran denies the accusations.
The 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the US and Iran includes a nuclear supervision part managed by the IAEA.
Iran urges Gulf states to help create a nuclear-weapons-free zone in West Asia.
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A senior Ukrainian intelligence officer, Colonel Dmytro Kozyura, was sentenced to life in prison for spying for Russia's security service. He shared secret military and political information with Russia and was caught after being monitored by Ukraine’s security service.
Key Facts
Colonel Dmytro Kozyura was chief of staff at Ukraine’s anti-terrorism center.
He was recruited by Russia’s FSB in 2018 and resumed contact with them in December 2024.
Kozyura shared classified information about Ukraine’s military, leadership, and infrastructure.
Ukrainian intelligence arrested him in February 2025 after monitoring his communications.
He used a safehouse in Kyiv and separate devices to communicate with Russian handlers.
Before his arrest, Ukraine used Kozyura to send false information to Russian forces.
He was convicted of high treason and illegal handling of weapons under martial law.
The judge gave him a life sentence, the harshest punishment for spying.
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Trevor Nelson, a BBC Radio 2 DJ, is taking a break from broadcasting due to health issues after a routine check-up led to further medical tests. He shared the news on Instagram and plans to focus on getting better before returning to work.
Key Facts
Trevor Nelson has not been on air all week due to health reasons.
He announced his break on Instagram to keep his followers informed.
Nelson was advised to have more medical tests after a routine check-up.
He has had a 30-year career at the BBC promoting black music genres like R&B, soul, and hip-hop.
Many musicians and media professionals sent him messages of support.
BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 1Xtra leaders wish him a speedy recovery.
Nelson recently received awards recognizing his broadcasting career, including one this week and one earlier this year.
He will still be heard on a pre-recorded concert broadcast on Radio 2 this Sunday.
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King Charles III has paid over $40 million in taxes since becoming king in 2022, sharing new details about the British monarchy’s finances. In comparison, U.S. President Donald Trump’s wealth and tax records are less transparent, though Forbes estimates Trump’s net worth at about $6.5 billion.
Key Facts
King Charles III’s net worth is estimated at about £680 million ($900 million).
Charles’s income mainly comes from the Duchy of Lancaster estate and personal investments, not a government salary.
Since his reign began in September 2022, Charles has paid over $40 million in taxes.
President Trump’s net worth is estimated at $6.5 billion, mostly from real estate, golf clubs, cryptocurrency, and media companies.
Trump chose to take a $1 salary as president instead of the official $400,000 annual salary.
Trump’s wealth grew by $1.4 billion over the past year, with some losses in his media company’s value.
Trump has not fully released his tax returns, breaking with past presidents, but some returns were leaked showing limited federal income tax paid in recent years.
Charles’s tax disclosure provides a rare public look at royal finances, while Trump continues to face calls to release his full tax documents.
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Great Britain’s energy system operator warned about tight electricity supplies due to a heatwave causing high demand for cooling. The operator asked power generators to increase output to avoid problems, but the overall electricity supply remains stable, with no blackouts expected.
Key Facts
The National Energy System Operator (Neso) issued a warning about electricity supply tightness on Thursday.
The heatwave is causing many people to use air conditioners and fans, raising electricity demand.
Neso had previously issued a similar warning earlier in the week.
Wind speeds have slowed because of the heat, reducing renewable energy production.
Neso paid about £10 million extra to gas power plants to boost electricity output on Wednesday evening.
Some UK gas power plants have reduced output due to the heat.
In France, four nuclear plants stopped working unexpectedly because river water was too warm to cool reactors.
The French utility EDF plans to spend €80 million to install cooling systems in schools and daycare centers for future heatwaves.
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Europe is experiencing extreme heat causing more medical emergencies, including heart problems, even among young and fit people. Officials advise avoiding outdoor exercise and limiting alcohol to stay hydrated and reduce health risks during the heatwave.
Key Facts
Ambulance services in London and Paris report sharp rises in serious emergencies like cardiac arrests due to the heat.
London saw a 50% increase in life-threatening emergency calls, with cardiac arrests up 30% on the hottest day this week.
Paris will ban public drinking of alcohol for two days to help reduce heat-related health issues.
Alcohol causes dehydration by making you urinate more, which is dangerous during hot weather when you sweat a lot.
Heat exhaustion can quickly develop into heatstroke, a medical emergency where the body cannot cool down.
Experts suggest avoiding strenuous exercise outdoors during high temperatures and choosing cooler times like early morning or late evening.
Officials warn that even young and healthy people are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
People are advised to hydrate well by drinking water regularly, especially between alcoholic drinks, to prevent dehydration.
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Highlife is a style of music that started about 100 years ago in the port cities of Ghana. It mixes old colonial brass instruments with traditional African rhythms and was important during West African independence. UNESCO has recognized Highlife as an important cultural heritage, and new musicians are helping the music grow and change.
Key Facts
Highlife music began around 100 years ago in Ghana.
It combines brass instruments introduced during colonial times with local African rhythms.
The genre played a key role during West Africa’s independence movements.
UNESCO has added Highlife to the list of intangible cultural heritage.
A new generation of musicians is updating Highlife to keep it alive and fresh.
The genre is gaining popularity again both in Africa and worldwide.
Highlife is called the "grandfather" of modern African music.
The music reflects the history and culture of West Africa.
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Rescuers in Venezuela found a baby alive under the rubble after a strong earthquake caused buildings to collapse. Teams are still searching for many people who are missing after the disaster.
Key Facts
A powerful earthquake hit Venezuela, causing buildings to fall down.
Rescuers discovered a baby alive under the collapsed building.
Search efforts are ongoing for thousands of missing people.
The earthquake caused widespread damage and fear.
Emergency teams are working to help victims and find survivors.
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The Nigerian Senate approved a bill that lets each of Nigeria's 36 states set up its own police force. This change aims to improve security but also raises worries that powerful state governors might gain too much control, possibly increasing violence.
Key Facts
The Nigerian Senate approved the bill on June 24, 2026.
The bill allows individual states to create their own police forces.
Nigeria has 36 states in total.
Recent events, like a large school kidnapping in the southwest, highlighted security problems.
Experts caution that giving states police control could empower governors in a country where politics can be violent.
The existing national police force has faced criticism over handling conflicts.
Security concerns include threats from groups like Boko Haram.
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France experienced extreme heat above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that forced closures of schools and public transport in Paris. The country’s long-term climate policies focused on saving energy and cutting emissions but did not prepare buildings or public spaces for very hot weather, leaving people vulnerable during heatwaves.
Key Facts
Paris shut down schools, museums, and public transport during a June heatwave with temperatures over 104°F.
France’s climate policies prioritize energy saving and reducing emissions, focusing on keeping buildings warm in winter rather than cool in summer.
Only about 7% of French households have air conditioning; including fans, about 25% have any cooling.
Public spaces like schools often lack cooling systems, causing closures during extreme heat.
French building rules protect historic looks and limit additions such as external air conditioners.
Many French homes trap heat because they are built to keep warmth inside during winter.
Around 40% of homes lack shutters, which help block solar heat and reduce indoor temperature.
The combination of hot weather and unadapted buildings causes dangerous indoor heat levels, especially in dense cities like Paris.
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Russia said it shot down 660 drones launched by Ukraine in the biggest strike so far. Ukraine’s drone attacks have damaged Russian energy sites and caused fuel shortages, raising concerns that Russia might ask Belarus to join the war. Belarus denies plans to enter the conflict and says it wants peace.
Key Facts
Russia’s Ministry of Defence reported downing 660 Ukrainian drones overnight.
The drone attacks hit 13 Russian regions including Moscow and Crimea.
A house was damaged and a woman injured in the Tula region due to the attacks.
An industrial plant important for Russian explosives production in Novomoskovsk was damaged.
Ukraine targets energy infrastructure to disrupt Russia’s war funding and supply lines.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of pushing Belarus to help in the war.
Belarus denies plans to join the conflict and says it wants to keep peace.
Belarusian President Lukashenko warned Ukraine not to try to drag Belarus into the war.
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Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, causing major damage. At least 235 people died, 4,300 were injured, and many are still missing. Rescuers saved a woman named Graciela Mora alive from the rubble in the hard-hit area of La Guaira.
Key Facts
Two earthquakes of 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck Venezuela recently.
The quakes are among the strongest in over 100 years in the region.
At least 235 people have died due to the earthquakes.
About 4,300 people were injured.
Many are still trapped under rubble or missing.
Graciela Mora was rescued alive from a collapsed building in La Guaira.
Graciela suffered injuries, including a broken finger.
She held the hand of a friend who died while waiting to be rescued.
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Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday, causing severe damage and many casualties. Over 50,000 people are reported missing, and the death toll has reached 235, with the number expected to rise.
Key Facts
Two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela in quick succession on Wednesday evening.
The earthquakes caused at least 235 deaths and more than 4,300 injuries so far.
More than 50,000 people have been reported missing since the quakes.
Rescuers are searching collapsed buildings in Caracas and nearby areas for survivors.
The quakes were shallow, less than 20 miles underground, which increased the damage.
This double-earthquake event is unusual because both were strong; normally, aftershocks are smaller.
The earthquakes’ epicenters were near Moron, about 105 miles west of Caracas.
The second quake was the strongest in Venezuela since 1900.
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A Somali woman named Sadia Moalim Ali was sentenced to three years in prison for criticizing the Somali government on social media. Her case has drawn strong criticism from former officials and human rights groups, who say the sentence is unfair and violates freedom of expression.
Key Facts
Sadia Moalim Ali, 27, was jailed after posting critical comments about government issues like youth unemployment, high fuel prices, and corruption.
She was convicted of insulting government institutions but not of incitement to commit a crime.
Her sentence was given on June 25 and caused public outrage in Somalia.
Former Somali president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire condemned the sentence.
Human rights groups say this case is part of a wider problem of harassment and discrimination against women activists in Somalia.
Ali has been in custody since April 12 and reported being tortured and threatened by police while detained.
Her lawyers have appealed the verdict, calling the sentence harsh and unjust.
Somali authorities have faced accusations since 2022 of cracking down on journalists and activists through arrests and intimidation.
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Visitors from many countries are enjoying their time in the United States during the 2026 World Cup. These tourists are amazed by everyday things that Americans usually take for granted, like large homes, popular restaurants, and wide shopping stores, showing a different view of America than what some public polls suggest.
Key Facts
The 2026 World Cup is hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Many international soccer fans are sharing positive experiences about America on social media.
A German fan named Freddy has become popular for his enthusiastic posts about American culture and places.
Visitors have expressed surprise and delight over common American features such as Waffle House, Taco Bell, and large football stadiums.
Some tourists see American abundance and friendliness, contrasting with negative opinions often shown in polls and media.
The Transportation Security Administration joked about tourists discovering ranch dressing and packing it to take home.
The article suggests that outsiders help Americans appreciate their country’s achievements and lifestyle.
It reminds readers that the United States remains a leading nation in economy, military, and culture.
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Rescuers helped a mother give birth in La Guaira, Venezuela, during the recovery efforts after a strong earthquake struck the area. They are also searching for people who are missing because of the disaster.
Key Facts
A strong earthquake hit La Guaira, Venezuela.
The earthquake caused significant damage in the region.
Rescuers found a mother who was about to give birth during the disaster.
They assisted her in safely delivering the baby.
Rescue teams are looking for people who remain missing after the earthquake.
The event shows how emergency workers continue to help amid crisis.
The situation remains serious due to the earthquake’s effects.
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Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela, causing severe damage, killing about 235 people, and injuring over 4,300. Many families use social media and online lists to find their missing loved ones since official information and communication are limited.
Key Facts
Two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026.
The quakes caused widespread damage, especially in Caracas and La Guaira.
Around 235 people have died and more than 4,300 were injured.
Communication systems were damaged, making it hard to get information.
People are using social media and online missing persons lists to search for relatives.
Independent registries list up to 40,000 people missing, much more than official reports.
Families post photos and details of missing relatives on platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and X.
Rescue efforts include people digging through rubble to find survivors.
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Ukraine is using drones to attack key infrastructure in Crimea, a peninsula annexed by Russia in 2014. These attacks are causing fuel and power shortages and forcing Russian-installed leaders to take temporary measures.
Key Facts
Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.
Ukraine has increased drone attacks on bridges, ferries, and oil storage in Crimea.
The attacks aim to weaken Russian control over the region.
Fuel and power shortages have become more common in Crimea because of these strikes.
Russian-installed leaders in Crimea have introduced temporary measures to address these shortages.
The situation is causing significant disruption to daily life in Crimea.
Ukraine uses advanced drones, like AI-powered Hornet drones, to launch attacks deep into Russian-controlled areas.
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Powerful earthquakes with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 hit northern Venezuela, causing heavy damage and killing over 230 people. Thousands are injured, and many remain missing as rescue efforts continue, especially in the coastal region of La Guaira.
Key Facts
Two strong earthquakes struck northern Venezuela on Wednesday evening.
Official reports show around 235 people dead and at least 4,300 injured.
Thousands are still missing amid ongoing rescue efforts.
La Guaira, a coastal area north of Caracas, suffered heavy damage and many casualties.
The main airport in La Guaira was damaged and closed, making aid delivery harder.
Many buildings were destroyed, and streets cracked open due to the quakes.
Residents and neighbors are helping each other search through rubble for survivors.
Phone services were disrupted, making it hard for Venezuelans abroad to reach family.
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Three-quarters of mainland France is under a highest-level heat warning due to a strong heatwave. However, the southeastern Mediterranean coast, known as the French Riviera or Côte d'Azur, is experiencing cooler temperatures because the Mediterranean Sea helps lower the heat there.
Key Facts
Most of mainland France is on "red alert" for extreme heat.
The southeastern coast of France is not under the highest heat warning.
The Mediterranean Sea cools the air near the French Riviera.
This sea cooling effect keeps temperatures lower than in the northwest parts of France.
France is dealing with record-breaking heat during this heatwave.
Extreme heat is affecting public life and emergency services in some areas.
The heatwave is linked to climate change, according to experts.
Coastal waters in France are also warming due to the heatwave.
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