June 30, 2025

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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

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

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

June 24, 2025
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.

Source Information

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

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

June 24, 2025
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.

Source Information

NPR Home

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

June 24, 2025
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.

Source Information

NPR Home
Germany vows to pay its 'fair share' on defence as Nato prepares for summit

Germany vows to pay its 'fair share' on defence as Nato prepares for summit

June 24, 2025
NATO leaders, including Germany and the U.S., are meeting in The Hague to discuss increased defense spending and support for Ukraine. Germany has committed to boosting its defense budget. The summit will also address the situation in Ukraine and feature discussions between leaders like U.S. President Trump and Ukraine's President Zelensky.

Key Facts:

  • The meeting in The Hague is a significant NATO summit focused on European defense.
  • Germany's Chancellor Merz stated that Russia only responds to force and pledged Germany's fair share for European defense.
  • NATO leaders plan to commit to spending 3.5% of GDP on defense, with an additional 1.5% on related needs, like infrastructure and cybersecurity.
  • NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized U.S. commitment to NATO and urged European nations to increase defense spending.
  • Ten people were killed in recent Russian missile attacks on Ukraine, with further casualties in Dnipro and Sumy.
  • German Chancellor Merz said that efforts to negotiate with Russia have been unsuccessful.
  • NATO countries plan a new investment initiative to reach a defense spending goal of 5% of GDP.
  • Ukrainian President Zelensky will meet U.S. President Trump at the summit, their first meeting since April.

Source Information

BBC World
‘I lost both legs’: Palestinians scale separation wall for chance to work

‘I lost both legs’: Palestinians scale separation wall for chance to work

June 24, 2025
A Palestinian worker named Saher attempted to climb Israel’s separation wall to reach a job in Israel but fell and suffered injuries after being spotted by an Israeli patrol. Due to the ongoing conflict, many Palestinians have lost work permits and are risking their lives to find work by illegally crossing the heavily monitored wall. Another worker, Ahed Rizk, was severely injured during a similar attempt by falling and losing the use of both legs.

Key Facts:

  • Saher, a Palestinian construction worker, tried to climb Israel’s separation wall to reach a job in Israel but fell and was injured.
  • The separation wall is a concrete barrier that can be as high as 8 meters (26 feet) and separates the occupied West Bank from Israel.
  • Due to recent conflicts, many Palestinian work permits for Israel have been revoked, leading workers to attempt illegal crossings.
  • The wall is closely watched with drones, sensors, and military patrols, making crossings more dangerous.
  • Ahed Rizk, another worker, fell from the wall and was severely injured, losing the use of both legs.
  • Many Palestinians depended on work in Israeli areas before the conflict, but now face unemployment and difficult conditions in the West Bank.
  • Workers attempting to cross face dangers, including potential falls and being caught by Israeli forces.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Calm returns to Qatar following Iran’s attack on Al Udeid airbase

Calm returns to Qatar following Iran’s attack on Al Udeid airbase

June 24, 2025
After Iran fired 19 missiles at the US military base in Qatar, 18 were intercepted by Qatari defense forces. Despite initial worry, normal life quickly resumed in Qatar. Residents continued their daily activities like visiting shopping malls and running errands.

Key Facts:

  • Iran launched 19 missiles at the US's Al Udeid airbase in Qatar.
  • Qatari defense forces intercepted 18 of these missiles.
  • The base is located 35 kilometers (21 miles) from Qatar's capital, Doha.
  • The US and Britain advised their citizens to stay indoors briefly after the attack.
  • Qatar temporarily closed its airspace and announced school closures for safety.
  • Residents resumed daily activities 12 hours after the attack.
  • Many residents reported feeling safe due to the swift response and reassurances.
  • The attack led to an unexpected holiday, and residents used the time for leisure activities.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
NATO chief praises Trump for making Europe ‘pay in a BIG way’ on defense ahead of historic summit

NATO chief praises Trump for making Europe ‘pay in a BIG way’ on defense ahead of historic summit

June 24, 2025
NATO leaders met in the Netherlands for a summit to discuss defense spending. The focus is on a new goal for members to spend 5% of their economy on defense. Some countries, like Spain, are against this target. The summit also highlights tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine's ongoing situation.

Key Facts:

  • NATO leaders gathered in the Netherlands for a summit.
  • The U.S. President shared a private message from NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte praising him.
  • There is a proposed goal for NATO members to spend 5% of their GDP on defense.
  • Spain opposes the 5% defense spending target, calling it unreasonable.
  • NATO confirmed the deadline for this spending target is 2035.
  • The summit shifted focus due to the U.S. actions in Iran and a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
  • Ukraine needs weapons and attention due to its ongoing conflict.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy attended meetings in The Hague but NATO membership discussions for Ukraine have stalled.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
World wary as it welcomes Iran-Israel ceasefire

World wary as it welcomes Iran-Israel ceasefire

June 24, 2025
Israel and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, but tensions remain high as both countries threaten retaliation if the deal is broken. Confusion has increased following a disagreement over missile strikes, and Iran plans to restart its nuclear program. The international response has been cautious, with some calling for further efforts to secure peace in the region.

Key Facts:

  • Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire plan announced by U.S. President Donald Trump.
  • Both countries have warned each other against breaking the ceasefire.
  • Israel’s Defense Minister ordered a military strike on Iran, claiming missile violations.
  • Trump urged Israel not to retaliate with bombings, which Prime Minister Netanyahu complied with.
  • Iran intends to resume its nuclear program quickly.
  • The United States and the UN previously found no sign Iran was developing a nuclear weapon.
  • Israel's initial strikes aimed to disrupt Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities.
  • There is worldwide caution about the ceasefire, with calls to pursue peace in Gaza.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Dutch authorities investigate possible arson against rail network as NATO summit opens

Dutch authorities investigate possible arson against rail network as NATO summit opens

June 24, 2025
Dutch authorities are investigating if a power outage affecting the rail network near their main airport was sabotaged. This incident disrupted train services ahead of a NATO summit in the Netherlands, where security measures are heightened due to the gathering of international leaders.

Key Facts:

  • Dutch officials are looking into whether a fire in about 30 rail cables was set on purpose, which led to a power outage.
  • The power outage disrupted train services between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam.
  • ProRail, the rail service operator, found considerable damage from the fire and aimed to restore normal services by early evening.
  • Security for the NATO summit includes closing roads and airspace, involving 27,000 police officers and over 10,000 defense personnel.
  • Pro-Russian hackers launched cyberattacks on several organizations linked to the NATO summit.
  • The previous year, France's rail network also experienced sabotage shortly before a major international event.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Have Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire? What we know

Have Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire? What we know

June 24, 2025
On Monday, US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran after Iran launched a missile attack on a US airbase in Qatar. Following accusations that Iran violated the truce, Israel ordered strikes on Tehran. Iran claimed its attack was a defense against US military actions, while Qatar condemned the missile strike.

Key Facts:

  • Iran launched a missile attack on the US military base Al Udeid in Qatar, which is the largest in the Middle East.
  • No casualties were reported from the missile strike on Qatar.
  • The ceasefire between Israel and Iran was announced by Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform.
  • Qatar's Prime Minister condemned Iran’s missile attack, calling it unacceptable.
  • Iran's missile attack was claimed to be a response to US actions against its nuclear sites.
  • President Trump detailed a timeline for the ceasefire, with Iran starting it first.
  • Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Israel agreed to the ceasefire.
  • Iran defended its attack as a legitimate response under the UN Charter, while denying it was aimed at Qatar.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
Trump uses expletive in warning to Iran and Israel

Trump uses expletive in warning to Iran and Israel

June 24, 2025
President Donald Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with both Iran and Israel over their actions related to a ceasefire. He used strong language to emphasize his concerns.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump voiced his frustration with Iran and Israel over a ceasefire.
  • He used an expletive to express his dissatisfaction.
  • Trump mentioned he was "not happy" with either side in the conflict.
  • There have been missile attacks between Iran and Israel.
  • Emergency workers in Israel responded to missile strikes.
  • Iran launched missile attacks on various Israeli cities, causing casualties and damage.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced strikes against Iran's nuclear and military sites.
  • Both Iran and Israel's leaders have exchanged threats amid ongoing violence.

Source Information

BBC World
What we know about the Iran-Israel ceasefire

What we know about the Iran-Israel ceasefire

June 24, 2025
Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire early Tuesday, brokered by Donald Trump and Qatar. Shortly after, Israel accused Iran of violating the ceasefire by launching missiles, which Iran denied, stating that they would respond to any further Israeli aggression.

Key Facts:

  • The ceasefire was announced by Donald Trump on Tuesday just after 05:00 GMT.
  • Israel agreed to the ceasefire proposal from the US, just after 06:00 GMT.
  • Iran reportedly agreed to cease attacks if Israel did the same.
  • Hours after agreeing, Israel accused Iran of violating the ceasefire by launching missiles.
  • Iran's top security body denied firing missiles and warned it would respond to any Israeli attacks.
  • Before the ceasefire, there was heavy fire exchange between Iran and Israel, with casualties reported in Beersheba.
  • Iranian state media said Iran launched another set of missiles just before the truce began.
  • Israeli military reported destroying missile launchers in western Iran.

Source Information

BBC World
Breaking another presidential norm, Trump drops the f-bomb on camera

Breaking another presidential norm, Trump drops the f-bomb on camera

June 24, 2025
On Tuesday, President Trump used a curse word on camera while expressing frustration about Israel and Iran allegedly breaking a ceasefire. Historically, American presidents have avoided using such language in public.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump used a curse word on camera in relation to the ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
  • He expressed his frustration, stating the two countries did not know what they were doing.
  • Presidents typically avoid using explicit language in public.
  • Trump is known for using coarse language more than previous presidents.
  • Past incidents of hot-mic moments involve other officials accidentally using curse words.
  • Historical examples exist where presidents have used strong language in private.
  • The use of a curse word by a public figure can sometimes lead to discussions and reactions.

Source Information

NPR Middle East
Tropical Storm Andrea, first of Atlantic hurricane season, has formed

Tropical Storm Andrea, first of Atlantic hurricane season, has formed

June 24, 2025
Tropical Storm Andrea, the first of the Atlantic hurricane season, has formed. It is located far from land and is expected to weaken and disappear by Wednesday night.

Key Facts:

  • Tropical Storm Andrea is the first storm of the Atlantic hurricane season.
  • Andrea is 1,205 miles (1,940 kilometers) west of the Azores.
  • The storm has winds of 40 mph (65 kph).
  • Andrea is moving east-northeast at 17 mph (28 kph).
  • It is expected to fade by Wednesday night.
  • No land areas are under threat, so no warnings have been issued.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
Israel kills more than 70 people in Gaza, including dozens of aid seekers

Israel kills more than 70 people in Gaza, including dozens of aid seekers

June 24, 2025
Israeli forces have killed over 70 Palestinians in Gaza, mainly near places where people go to get aid. This is part of ongoing violence since October 7, with thousands harmed or killed overall.

Key Facts:

  • Israeli forces and drones killed over 70 Palestinians in Gaza in one day, including 51 people near aid centers.
  • In the city of Rafah, 27 people seeking aid were killed.
  • Since the conflict began on October 7, over 56,000 people have died, and more than 131,000 have been injured.
  • Aid centers in Gaza, run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), have been scenes of violence and killings.
  • The UN agency for Palestinian refugees described the aid distribution system as a “death trap.”
  • An incident on Salah al-Din Street resulted in 25 deaths and over 140 injuries.
  • Footage verified by media showed bodies being taken to hospitals, including al-Awda Hospital in the Nuseirat refugee camp.
  • Israel claims shootings near aid sites happen when "suspects" approach soldiers, though others report no warnings before attacks.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
UK vows to spend 5% of GDP on national security by 2035

UK vows to spend 5% of GDP on national security by 2035

June 24, 2025
The UK has promised to spend 5% of its GDP on national security by 2035 to meet a new goal set by NATO. The new spending target will divide into 3.5% for core defense needs and 1.5% for areas like cybersecurity and border protection. The UK government is discussing how to finance this increase amid concerns from some political figures.

Key Facts:

  • The UK aims to spend 5% of GDP on national security by 2035.
  • The spending will be split: 3.5% on core defense and 1.5% on other security areas.
  • NATO members, including the UK, have agreed on this 5% goal.
  • Conservative politician Dame Priti Patel criticized the announcement, saying it lacks new funding.
  • Liberal Democrats support the spending increase to meet NATO's target.
  • Current UK defense spending is set to reach 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a potential rise to 3% by 2034 if conditions allow.
  • The commitment comes amid pressures for increased defense spending since Russia's 2022 Ukraine invasion and Trump's reelection.

Source Information

BBC Business
Russian attacks kill 18 civilians in Ukraine as Zelenskyy seeks more Western support

Russian attacks kill 18 civilians in Ukraine as Zelenskyy seeks more Western support

June 24, 2025
Russian attacks in Ukraine have killed at least 18 people and injured nearly 200 others. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is seeking more help from Western countries to support Ukraine in its defense against Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine has also launched drones into Russia, targeting residential areas.

Key Facts:

  • Russian drones, missiles, and artillery killed 18 civilians and injured about 200 people in Ukraine.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is seeking more military support from Western countries during a NATO summit.
  • A Russian missile attack in Dnipro killed nine people and injured 164, damaging schools and medical facilities.
  • In Samar, two people were killed, and 11 were injured in Russian attacks.
  • Russia shelled the Kherson region, killing four civilians and injuring 11.
  • A drone attack in the Sumy region killed three civilians, including a child, and injured six others.
  • Russian air defense reported shooting down 20 Ukrainian drones, some near Moscow.
  • Air traffic was paused briefly at Moscow airports due to drone activity.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
'It took a direct hit' - BBC at scene of Beersheba missile strike

'It took a direct hit' - BBC at scene of Beersheba missile strike

June 24, 2025
An Iranian missile struck a residential building in Beersheba, Israel, killing at least four people. Three of the victims were inside a "safe room" when the attack happened. The incident occurs amidst ongoing missile exchanges between Israel and Iran.

Key Facts:

  • An Iranian missile hit a residential building in Beersheba, Israel.
  • At least four people died in the attack.
  • Three victims were found inside a "safe room" in the building.
  • The attack happened in the early hours of the day.
  • Rescue teams rushed to clear rubble and assist survivors.
  • This incident is part of a broader conflict between Israel and Iran.
  • Israel has carried out strikes against Iran's nuclear and military sites recently.
  • Both Israel and Iran have made statements indicating the conflict might continue.

Source Information

BBC World
Palestinian health authorities say Israel kills 44 waiting for aid as war death toll tops 56,000

Palestinian health authorities say Israel kills 44 waiting for aid as war death toll tops 56,000

June 24, 2025
Israeli forces and drones fired on Palestinians waiting for aid in southern and central Gaza, killing at least 44 people, according to witnesses and hospitals. The incidents occurred at food distribution sites supported by the U.S. and Israel. Gaza's Health Ministry reports that over 56,000 Palestinians have died since Israel's military operations began.

Key Facts:

  • Israeli forces and drones fired on Palestinians gathered for aid in southern and central Gaza.
  • Witnesses and hospitals reported at least 44 deaths from these incidents.
  • The incidents took place at food distribution sites supported by the U.S. and Israel.
  • Israeli military said it fired warning shots at people approaching its forces suspiciously; they are reviewing the incident.
  • In central Gaza, reports say tanks and drones fired on crowds, resulting in many casualties.
  • Awda hospital confirmed 25 deaths and 146 injuries in one incident, with 62 critically injured.
  • In Rafah, 19 people were killed, and 50 wounded at another food distribution site.
  • Gaza’s Health Ministry states that over 56,000 people have died in the current conflict, which escalated after Hamas' attack in October 2023.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour
With unity on the line, NATO leaders gather for historic summit

With unity on the line, NATO leaders gather for historic summit

June 24, 2025
NATO leaders met in the Netherlands to discuss plans for members to spend 5% of their economy's total value on security. Some countries, like Spain, find the target too high. The summit also addressed ongoing conflicts involving Ukraine and the Middle East, with Ukraine's leader attending for discussions but not part of formal NATO membership talks.

Key Facts:

  • NATO leaders are meeting for a two-day summit in the Netherlands.
  • The main topic is a proposal for members to spend 5% of their GDP on defense.
  • GDP, or Gross Domestic Product, is the total value of all goods and services a country produces.
  • Spain and the U.S. have expressed concerns about the 5% spending goal.
  • Ukraine's President Zelenskyy came for talks but wasn't included in NATO membership discussions.
  • The summit also focuses on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
  • The Netherlands announced new support for Ukraine, including radar systems and drone production.

Source Information

PBS NewsHour