June 30, 2025

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World wary as it welcomes Iran-Israel ceasefire

World wary as it welcomes Iran-Israel ceasefire

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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Trump uses expletive in warning to Iran and Israel

Trump uses expletive in warning to Iran and Israel

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.

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What we know about the Iran-Israel ceasefire

What we know about the Iran-Israel ceasefire

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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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

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.

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

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

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.

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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

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.

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

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

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.

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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

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.

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

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

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.

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Iran hoping to “draw a line” under confrontation with US

Iran hoping to “draw a line” under confrontation with US

Ali Vaez, from the International Crisis Group, stated that Iran and Israel have both agreed to a ceasefire proposed by Trump. However, Iran thinks that Israel's conflict with them might not be over.

Key Facts:

  • Ali Vaez works with the International Crisis Group.
  • He is the director of the project focusing on Iran.
  • Both Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire introduced by Trump.
  • Iran suspects that Israel might continue its conflict with Iran.
  • The ceasefire is a temporary stoppage of fighting agreed by both sides.

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Israel-Iran ceasefire is in effect, Trump says

Israel-Iran ceasefire is in effect, Trump says

President Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran after earlier conflicts and accusations that both sides violated an agreement. Israel accused Iran of missile attacks, which Iran denied, during this 12-day conflict involving nuclear concerns.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump said a ceasefire was in place between Iran and Israel.
  • Israel accused Iran of launching missiles into its airspace after the ceasefire was supposed to start.
  • Iran's military denied firing missiles at Israel.
  • Two Iranian missiles were intercepted by Israel, according to an Israeli military official.
  • The conflict started with Israel targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites to prevent nuclear weapon development.
  • The U.S. joined the conflict by dropping bombs on the weekend before the ceasefire.
  • Israel held off further attacks on Iran after discussions between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu.
  • Iran's Foreign Minister indicated that Iran would not fire at Israel unless attacked.

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Russia and Ukraine swap drone attacks as ceasefire efforts remain stalled

Russia and Ukraine swap drone attacks as ceasefire efforts remain stalled

Russia and Ukraine exchanged drone attacks, reportedly causing at least 10 deaths in Ukraine due to Russian strikes. These incidents, occurring in multiple Ukrainian regions including Kyiv and Dnipro, coincide with halted ceasefire efforts and ongoing global tension. Meanwhile, Ukraine has increased drone attacks on Russian targets, leading to injuries and evacuations in Moscow.

Key Facts:

  • Drone attacks between Russia and Ukraine resulted in several deaths.
  • At least 10 people were killed in Moscow’s attacks on Ukraine, with specific incidents in Dnipro and Kyiv.
  • A Russian missile strike in Dnipro reportedly killed seven people and wounded around 70 others.
  • Ukraine's drone strikes in Russia have targeted various locations, including a residential building in Moscow.
  • Russia claims to have shot down 20 Ukrainian drones overnight.
  • Global efforts for a ceasefire have stalled, with ongoing tensions affecting peace talks.
  • Russia occupies about a fifth of Ukraine and claims control over several regions.
  • Ukraine's President Zelenskyy is set to discuss more support with the US.

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'Best place to have herpes': New Zealand ad wins top prize

'Best place to have herpes': New Zealand ad wins top prize

A campaign by the New Zealand Herpes Foundation aimed to reduce the stigma around herpes with a humorous tourism ad. This campaign won a top prize at the Cannes Lions awards, which honor creative work by charities and non-profit groups.

Key Facts:

  • The New Zealand Herpes Foundation launched a campaign last October to change how people think about herpes.
  • The campaign used humor and a fake tourism ad to show New Zealand as the best place to have herpes.
  • The campaign featured well-known New Zealand figures, including former rugby coach Sir Graham Henry.
  • It received the Grand Prix for Good award at the Cannes Lions, recognizing outstanding charitable work.
  • About one in three sexually active adults in New Zealand has herpes, although many have mild or no symptoms.
  • The campaign aimed to counter negative stereotypes and misinformation about herpes.
  • The humor and creativity in the campaign helped it reach millions of people, as stated by Alaina Luxmoore from the foundation.

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Israel and Iran agree ceasefire amid waves of missiles

Israel and Iran agree ceasefire amid waves of missiles

Iran and Israel have agreed to a ceasefire after 12 days of intense air strikes between the two countries. The ceasefire was coordinated with help from the United States President Donald Trump, who announced the agreement on social media. There had been recent military actions including Iran's missile attacks and Israel's air strikes before the truce went into effect.

Key Facts:

  • Iran and Israel were involved in 12 days of air strikes against each other.
  • They have agreed to a ceasefire following U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal.
  • The ceasefire followed intense military activity, including Tehran's last-minute barrage of missiles.
  • The agreement seeks to de-escalate a conflict that involved attacks on U.S. interests, including a U.S. military base in Qatar.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned that Israel will retaliate if the ceasefire is broken.
  • Iranian television confirmed the ceasefire, starting after six waves of missile launches.
  • The United Nations demanded access to Iran’s nuclear sites to check uranium levels.
  • Iran is reviewing damage to its nuclear facilities and plans to restore them rapidly.

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Oil prices drop as Israel agrees to ceasefire with Iran

Oil prices drop as Israel agrees to ceasefire with Iran

Oil prices dropped by nearly 5% after Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire. The price of Brent crude oil fell to $68 a barrel, below its level before the conflict began.

Key Facts:

  • Oil prices fell by nearly 5% after a ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
  • Brent crude oil dropped to $68 a barrel.
  • The conflict had led to oil prices spiking as high as $81 a barrel.
  • There were concerns that Iran might blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a major shipping lane for oil.
  • With the ceasefire, stock markets in Asia rose, including a 1.1% increase in Japan's Nikkei index and a 2.1% rise in Hong Kong's Hang Seng index.
  • US President Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire "is now in effect."
  • Market analysts suggest that if the ceasefire holds, oil prices might stabilize.

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Israel and Iran's fragile ceasefire. And, what to know about NYC's mayoral race

Israel and Iran's fragile ceasefire. And, what to know about NYC's mayoral race

President Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran after a 12-day conflict. The U.S. Supreme Court reversed a lower court decision, allowing deportations to countries other than where migrants are from to continue. New York City is holding a Democratic primary for its mayoral race, with major issues being discussed.

Key Facts:

  • A ceasefire was announced by President Trump to end the conflict between Israel and Iran.
  • The conflict included Israeli attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities and U.S. bombings on Iranian sites.
  • Despite the ceasefire, Israel and Iran reported attacks on each other just before it started.
  • The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that deportations can proceed without a 15-day notice period.
  • A federal judge had previously paused deportations to ensure due process for migrants.
  • The Supreme Court decision is not final, as the issue is still before a federal appeals court.
  • New York City voters are participating in a Democratic mayoral primary.
  • The Democratic primary winner will face the current mayor, Eric Adams, now running as an Independent.

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