June 29, 2025

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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

A Possible Iran-Israel Ceasefire and Why China is Watching the War Closely

President Trump announced that Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire, which was quickly challenged. China is closely monitoring the situation because it relies on oil imports from Iran.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran on social media.
  • The ceasefire agreement was immediately put to the test following the announcement.
  • China has a strong interest in the situation due to its oil imports from Iran.
  • China obtains much of its oil from Iran using a "dark fleet," which refers to ships that avoid detection to bypass American sanctions.
  • The situation is important for China because any disruption could affect its crude oil supply.

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Even bridal gowns fall victim to tariffs

Tariffs, which are taxes on imports, are affecting the bridal gown market. Most wedding dresses are designed in the U.S. but manufactured in China, and these dresses are now subject to these taxes.

Key Facts:

  • Tariffs are taxes placed on goods that are brought into a country from abroad.
  • Most bridal gowns are designed in the United States.
  • The actual manufacturing of these dresses mostly happens in China.
  • These gowns are now affected by tariffs due to their foreign production.
  • Couples buying wedding dresses may notice changes because of these tariffs.

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Iran’s Pezeshkian expresses ‘regret’ to the emir of Qatar

Iran’s Pezeshkian expresses ‘regret’ to the emir of Qatar

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian apologized to Qatar for Iran's missile strike on a US base in Qatar, saying Qatar was not the target. Iran fired 19 missiles at the base as a response to US actions, and Qatar intercepted 18 of them.

Key Facts:

  • Iranian President Pezeshkian spoke with Qatar's Emir to express regret over the missile strike.
  • The attack targeted the US base Al Udeid in Qatar, not the Qatari population.
  • Qatar's defense forces intercepted 18 out of 19 Iranian missiles.
  • The Iranian attack was in response to a US strike on Iran's nuclear facilities.
  • Qatar's Emir condemned the attack, calling it a violation of Qatar's airspace and sovereignty.
  • Qatar maintained that it has always supported diplomatic efforts and dialogue with Iran.
  • Qatar sent a complaint to the UN, calling the missile strike a threat to regional peace.
  • US President Trump announced that Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire following these events.

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A shaky ceasefire emerges between Israel and Iran

A temporary ceasefire has been announced between Israel and Iran. Recent support for Israel's actions against Iran has come from some Gulf Arab states.

Key Facts:

  • A ceasefire between Israel and Iran has been declared.
  • The ceasefire is described as shaky, indicating it may not be stable.
  • Some Gulf Arab countries have supported Israel's recent actions against Iran.
  • There are concerns that Israel might try to reshape the Middle East in a way that benefits it.
  • The situation has been discussed on a program called "All Things Considered."

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Long and short-term solutions to keep yourself and your home cool in a heatwave

Long and short-term solutions to keep yourself and your home cool in a heatwave

Millions of people in the U.S. are dealing with a major heat wave affecting the Midwest and East Coast. This heat wave is causing dangerous conditions, leading to record-high temperatures in some areas. There are practical tips to stay cool, such as using fans, keeping blinds closed, and staying indoors during peak heat times.

Key Facts:

  • A major heat wave is affecting the Midwest and East Coast in the U.S.
  • The heat wave is expected to last until Friday in some places.
  • Early season heat can be dangerous because people are not yet acclimatized to high temperatures.
  • Keeping blinds and curtains closed can help cool homes.
  • Air conditioner filters should be clean to ensure efficiency.
  • Public places with air conditioning, like libraries, can serve as cooling centers.
  • Wind and solar energy are recommended as solutions to reduce climate pollution.
  • Sealing leaks in homes can help reduce discomfort from heat.

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Russian naval ship 'disguised' itself while passing through English Channel

Russian naval ship 'disguised' itself while passing through English Channel

A Russian warship called Boikiy used a fake identification signal while traveling through the English Channel with two oil tankers that are under sanctions. Investigators matched the ship’s identity using satellite images, tracking data, and video evidence. The warship traveled alongside two vessels from Russia's "shadow fleet," which often hide their ownership and transport sanctioned oil products.

Key Facts:

  • The Russian warship Boikiy used a fake ID signal in the English Channel.
  • Boikiy is armed with guided missiles and disguised its identity during travel.
  • BBC Verify matched the Boikiy’s ID using satellite images, tracking data, and video footage.
  • The ship was accompanied by two oil tankers under international sanctions.
  • These tankers are part of Russia's "shadow fleet," which secretly moves sanctioned oil.
  • Recent Western actions against this fleet might have led Russia to use military escorts.
  • The UK Royal Navy monitored Boikiy as it passed through the Channel.
  • The ship left West Africa in June and was seen near the Canary Islands without broadcasting its usual identification signals.

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What is Iran’s right to resist regime change?

What is Iran’s right to resist regime change?

Israel has stated that Iran is now closer than ever to developing a nuclear weapon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that Israel's military actions against Iran aim to "liberate" its people.

Key Facts:

  • Israel believes Iran is closer to creating a nuclear weapon now than it has been in the past.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned that military actions against Iran are partly intended to "liberate" its people.
  • Iran has a long history and culture, influenced by past empires and resistance movements.
  • The term "liberation" has different meanings to Iranians, especially amid calls for regime change by the US and Israel.
  • Both the US and Israel have shown interest in changing Iran’s current government.

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Why is China so concerned about Israel-Iran tensions?

Why is China so concerned about Israel-Iran tensions?

China is closely monitoring the situation between Israel and Iran because it imports a large amount of oil from Iran. Despite U.S. sanctions, China continues this trade, helping Iran economically. China uses a "dark fleet" of ships to transport the oil, avoiding official channels.

Key Facts:

  • China is the largest buyer of Iranian oil.
  • Iran sends about 90% of its oil exports to China.
  • The U.S. has sanctions against buying oil from Iran to prevent funding for Iran's military.
  • China buys Iranian oil at a lower price, about 8% less than market rates.
  • Oil is transported using a "dark fleet," a group of ships that bypass official shipping systems.
  • These ships often change the origin labels of oil shipments to disguise them.
  • This oil trade keeps Iran's economy stable, letting the country withstand economic pressure.
  • China does not engage militarily in the region but holds political influence in Iran.

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NTSB faults Boeing for lack of safety protocols in 737 Max door plug blowout

NTSB faults Boeing for lack of safety protocols in 737 Max door plug blowout

Key Facts:

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Successes -- and setbacks -- in the campaign to vaccinate the world's kids

Successes -- and setbacks -- in the campaign to vaccinate the world's kids

Key Facts:

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Russian missile strikes kill 11 in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region

Russian missile strikes kill 11 in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region

A news article reported several recent events, including actions by Scottish Labour MPs, sports contract updates, an online threat during a meeting, and other incidents like a red card penalty, vandalism, and a fatal accident involving a tourist.

Key Facts:

  • Nine Scottish Labour MPs signed an amendment against controversial welfare reforms.
  • Two Crawley Town players, Joy Mukena and Ryan Sandford, signed new contracts to stay with the team.
  • During a meeting about special educational needs, inappropriate images and threats were posted online.
  • Chelsea's player Nicolas Jackson received a two-game suspension due to a red card in a recent match.
  • A vandalism incident occurred at Trump Turnberry where a green was damaged and graffiti was left.
  • Police increased patrols after a primary school student brought a knife to school, though such cases are rare.
  • An Iranian nuclear scientist was reportedly killed in a strike; nine others also died, according to Iranian media and officials.
  • A Brazilian tourist died after falling from Mount Rinjani in Indonesia during a hike.

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How Israel failed in Iran

How Israel failed in Iran

After 11 days of military action, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that its goals in Iran were met, but evidence suggests otherwise. The main objectives, which were to disrupt Iran's nuclear program and prompt a regime change, appear to have fallen short. US involvement in bombing Iranian facilities was limited, and instead of weakening the regime, the attacks united many Iranians around their government.

Key Facts:

  • Israel's objectives were to disrupt Iran’s nuclear program and to instigate a regime change.
  • The nuclear program's key materials were moved, indicating disruption was not successful.
  • The US attacked Iranian nuclear sites with special bombs but did not continue support.
  • Evaluating the actual damage to Iran's nuclear sites is difficult without access.
  • Assassinations intended to destabilize Iran's leadership instead strengthened public support for the government.
  • Bombing of sites symbolic of Iran's regime, like state media, did not achieve the intended results.
  • President Trump ordered the US bombing of Iranian facilities but did not engage further in support of Israel.
  • These US actions might have violated international law and may have lasting effects.

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Israel-Iran ceasefire off to rocky start, drawing Trump’s ire after fanfare

Israel-Iran ceasefire off to rocky start, drawing Trump’s ire after fanfare

A ceasefire between Israel and Iran, arranged by the US and Qatar, began recently but is already facing challenges. US President Donald Trump criticized Israel, accusing it of violating the agreement and urging both nations to calm tensions. Israel claims Iranian missile violations, while Iran denies it launched missiles.

Key Facts:

  • A ceasefire between Israel and Iran started after being brokered by the US and Qatar.
  • US President Donald Trump publicly criticized Israel for allegedly breaching the ceasefire.
  • Trump expressed disappointment with both Israel and Iran for the ongoing conflicts.
  • Israel conducted additional strikes, citing Iranian missile violations of the ceasefire.
  • Iran denied firing missiles and accused Israel of continuing attacks post-ceasefire.
  • Trump supports the ceasefire but clarified that he is not seeking to change Iran's government.
  • The ceasefire remains a significant political goal for Trump amid recent tensions.
  • Some Iranian officials view Trump's remarks as a potential chance for diplomatic talks.

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Under Trump, US strikes on Somalia have doubled since last year. Why?

Under Trump, US strikes on Somalia have doubled since last year. Why?

During Donald Trump's second term as U.S. President, the U.S. carried out air strikes in Somalia, targeting groups linked to ISIL and al-Shabab. These actions mark a contrast to Trump's previous campaign statements about ending prolonged wars. The strikes increased significantly, with concerns over ISIL activity and al-Shabab's growing strength.

Key Facts:

  • Trump announced U.S. air strikes on ISIL leadership in Somalia soon after his second term began.
  • There have been at least 43 U.S. air strikes in Somalia in 2025, as reported by New America using AFRICOM data.
  • The strikes targeted IS-Somalia in northeast Puntland and the militant group al-Shabab.
  • The increase in strikes is linked to concerns about ISIL becoming a hub for financing and regional attacks.
  • The U.S. has a history of military involvement in Somalia, including since the "Black Hawk Down" incident in 1993.
  • After 9/11, Somalia became part of the global war on terror, hosting several U.S. air strikes.
  • Trump's first term saw 219 air strikes in Somalia, which was more than during the administrations before him.
  • Analysts express that the U.S. military actions in Somalia continue despite historical controversies and challenges.

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Trump says commitment to NATO mutual defense guarantee ‘depends on your definition’

Trump says commitment to NATO mutual defense guarantee ‘depends on your definition’

President Donald Trump made comments that caused uncertainty about the U.S. commitment to NATO's mutual defense agreements. He mentioned different interpretations of NATO's Article 5, which is about defending any NATO member that is attacked. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte assured the public of the U.S.'s commitment, despite Trump's remarks.

Key Facts:

  • President Donald Trump raised questions about the U.S. commitment to NATO defense guarantees.
  • Trump referred to multiple definitions of NATO's Article 5, which says an attack on one member is an attack on all.
  • NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated there is no doubt about the U.S.'s commitment to Article 5.
  • The summit occurs amid Middle Eastern tensions after U.S. actions in Iran and a ceasefire announcement between Israel and Iran.
  • Trump has a history of criticizing NATO and questioning its members' defense spending.
  • Trump proposed increasing NATO members' defense spending to 4% or 5% of their GDP.
  • Senator Jeanne Shaheen expressed concern that Trump's actions could benefit adversaries like China.
  • The NATO summit is held in The Hague, Netherlands, with leaders from around the world attending.

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NATO allies set to approve major defence spending hike at Hague summit

NATO allies set to approve major defence spending hike at Hague summit

World leaders are meeting in the Netherlands for the NATO summit to discuss increasing defense spending among member countries. The United States is pressuring NATO allies to spend more on defense, and leaders are expected to agree to new spending targets in response to global conflicts and security challenges.

Key Facts:

  • The NATO summit is taking place in The Hague, Netherlands.
  • Leaders from the 32 NATO member countries are attending to discuss defense spending.
  • The US wants NATO countries to raise their defense spending to 5% of their GDP.
  • Currently, the target is 2% of GDP for defense spending, and only 22 countries meet this goal.
  • The increase in spending is partly due to conflicts like the war in Ukraine.
  • Germany plans to increase its military spending to strengthen its army.
  • The Kremlin claimed NATO was formed for confrontation but stated it has no plans to attack NATO.
  • Non-member countries like Ukraine, Japan, and New Zealand are also attending the summit.

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How much have US wars in the Middle East and Afghanistan cost?

How much have US wars in the Middle East and Afghanistan cost?

The United States expanded its military involvement in the Middle East by bombing Iran's nuclear facilities. Over 125 US aircraft took part in the mission, costing hundreds of millions of dollars. US wars since 2001 have caused extensive direct and indirect deaths and cost the country trillions of dollars.

Key Facts:

  • The US bombed at least three of Iran’s nuclear facilities using B-2 stealth bombers.
  • Seven B-2 bombers, each worth around $2.1 billion, dropped 14 bunker-buster bombs.
  • More than 125 US aircraft, including fighters and support crews, were involved in the mission.
  • In 2024, the US military budget was $997 billion, making up 37% of global military spending.
  • US-led wars since 2001 directly caused about 940,000 deaths and between 4.5 to 4.7 million total deaths, including indirect causes.
  • The US has spent about $5.8 trillion on wars since 2001.
  • US aid to Israel amounts to at least $251.2 billion since 1959, with an additional $17.9 billion in military aid provided following events in 2023.

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As Sean Combs' prosecutors rest, here is the case they've made

As Sean Combs' prosecutors rest, here is the case they've made

Federal prosecutors have finished presenting their case against Sean Combs, also known as Diddy, in a trial involving charges of sex trafficking, prostitution, and racketeering. The trial has attracted widespread attention, with many media members and fans attending in person, and various courtroom happenings, including juror dismissals and evidence leaks, adding to the chaos. Combs' defense does not plan to call any witnesses but will present evidence that they argue shows the women involved were willing participants.

Key Facts:

  • Sean Combs, a well-known hip-hop figure, is on trial for serious charges like sex trafficking and racketeering.
  • The trial is taking place in the Southern District of New York.
  • Prosecutors have presented evidence and around 30 witnesses over six weeks.
  • Electronic devices are banned in the courtroom, so reporters and fans take notes by hand.
  • A juror was dismissed for giving unclear answers about his residency.
  • Leaks of sealed evidence to media outlets led to the judge scolding both legal teams.
  • The defense will not call any witnesses but will argue that involved women were not victims.
  • Sean Combs has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

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Fed Chair Jerome Powell says tariff uncertainty warrants caution on rate cuts

Fed Chair Jerome Powell says tariff uncertainty warrants caution on rate cuts

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that the uncertainty caused by President Trump's tariffs means the Fed will cautiously decide on cutting interest rates. The Federal Reserve recently kept interest rates unchanged but indicated possible rate cuts later this year due to steady inflation and economic growth concerns.

Key Facts:

  • Jerome Powell is the Chair of the Federal Reserve, which is responsible for managing interest rates in the U.S.
  • President Trump’s tariffs create uncertain conditions for the U.S. economy, affecting decisions on interest rates.
  • The Fed left interest rates unchanged but suggested they might lower them twice later this year.
  • Trump has criticized Powell and pushed for faster interest rate cuts.
  • Powell mentioned inflation and economic growth as reasons for the current interest rate strategy.
  • Businesses may still have older inventories not yet affected by tariffs, and summer data will show the impact on consumer prices.
  • The central bank aims to keep prices stable and ensure there is enough work for people who want jobs.
  • Some Fed governors are open to lowering rates sooner, possibly as early as July.

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How US air strikes in Iran might affect the country's nuclear program and leadership

The article discusses potential consequences of U.S. airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites. It covers how these actions might impact Iran's nuclear program and its government's control.

Key Facts:

  • The article is about possible U.S. airstrikes on Iran.
  • These strikes would target Iran's nuclear sites.
  • The purpose of the strikes is linked to concerns about Iran's nuclear program.
  • Experts discuss how this could affect Iran's leadership.
  • The situation relates to tensions between Israel and Iran.
  • The article features insights from Iran expert Karim Sadjadpour.

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