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'Delulu', 'Clock it': 'Cockroach' protest brings Gen Z slang to India's parliament

'Delulu', 'Clock it': 'Cockroach' protest brings Gen Z slang to India's parliament

July 29, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Young people in India used their own internet slang during a recent debate in the country's parliament. This happened after youth-led protests forced the resignation of the education minister and pushed the government to introduce a new law to stop exam cheating.

Key Facts

  • Tens of thousands of young people protested under the group called the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).
  • The protests led to the resignation of India’s education minister, Dharmendra Pradhan.
  • Indian parliament members used Gen Z internet slang like "delulu" (detached from reality), "FOMO" (fear of missing out), and "clock it" (spotting the solution) during a debate.
  • The protest started online, organized through WhatsApp, Telegram, and Instagram, using memes and videos to spread messages.
  • The government responded with social media, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi posting selfie videos to reach young people.
  • Opposition leaders also used the slang but sometimes mocked government responses as superficial.
  • Political experts note politicians often use popular culture language to connect with voters, so this is not completely new.
  • Past examples show Indian political speeches have borrowed from movies, sports, and ads to engage audiences.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Dolly Parton Brings Her Rags-to-Rhinestones Story to Broadway

Dolly Parton Brings Her Rags-to-Rhinestones Story to Broadway

July 29, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Dolly Parton will star in a Broadway musical about her life called Dolly: A True Original Musical. The show, featuring her famous songs and new music, will begin previews in December and officially open on January 19, 2027, Dolly's 81st birthday.

Key Facts

  • The musical tells the story of Dolly Parton's life from her early years in Tennessee to her rise as a music star.
  • Dolly Parton says the show will be honest and show more than just her glamorous image.
  • The musical will include some of her well-known songs like "Jolene," "I Will Always Love You," and "9 to 5."
  • Dolly has experience with Broadway, having written music for 9 to 5: The Musical.
  • The show is expected to appeal to a wide audience, bringing together people from different backgrounds.
  • Dolly hopes the musical will unite people and celebrate diversity, much like her song "Coat of Many Colors."
  • The official opening date is January 19, 2027, which is Dolly Parton's 81st birthday.
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Newsweek
The Register: A Resurrection, Suggestive Shorts and the Hottest Ticket

The Register: A Resurrection, Suggestive Shorts and the Hottest Ticket

July 29, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Mel Gibson is making a two-part sequel to his 2004 movie The Passion of the Christ, called The Resurrection of the Christ, to be released in 2027 and 2028. Bad Bunny’s recent concert in Poland went viral because of his dance in tiny shorts. Also, Christopher Nolan’s movie The Odyssey, filmed fully in IMAX, is hard to see due to limited theaters, and Kelly Clarkson is ending her TV show after seven seasons.

Key Facts

  • Mel Gibson’s new movie sequel will focus on Jesus’ resurrection and will come out in two parts in 2027 and 2028.
  • The sequel will feature a new cast, including Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen as Jesus.
  • Bad Bunny’s performance in Warsaw drew attention for his suggestive dancing in small blue shorts, which the brand now calls “Bad Shorts.”
  • Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is the first film shot entirely on 70mm IMAX film but has very limited showings due to few theaters equipped to project it.
  • AMC theaters have added late-night screenings of The Odyssey to meet demand.
  • Crystal Methyd won RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 11 and plans a solo stage show called The Enchanted Forest.
  • Kelly Clarkson announced she will end The Kelly Clarkson Show this fall after seven seasons.
  • Clarkson indicated she is ready to move on from NBC during a recent performance residency.
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Newsweek
George Santos Finally Finds the Perfect Stage

George Santos Finally Finds the Perfect Stage

July 29, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

George Santos, a former New York congressman who served less than a year before being expelled and sentenced for crimes, will appear on Fox's reality competition show Special Forces: World's Toughest Test. The show features celebrities facing tough military-style challenges, and Santos will compete alongside other known personalities starting September 24.

Key Facts

  • George Santos was a Republican congressman from New York who served less than a year in 2023.
  • He was expelled from Congress after an ethics investigation.
  • Santos was sentenced to 87 months in prison for identity theft and wire fraud but served about three years after a commutation by President Donald Trump.
  • He is joining the fifth season of Fox's reality show Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test.
  • The show involves grueling physical and mental challenges set in the Malaysian jungle.
  • Other participants include former NBA player Matt Barnes and actress Candace Cameron Bure.
  • Santos hopes to raise money to pay off campaign debts exceeding $800,000.
  • The show will start airing on September 24.
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Newsweek
Tom Holland Says 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' Tackles Loneliness

Tom Holland Says 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' Tackles Loneliness

July 29, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The upcoming movie *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* focuses on the loneliness experienced by Peter Parker (Spider-Man) after the world forgets him. Actor Tom Holland says the film shows the dangers of living alone without community, a theme that reflects real loneliness issues many young people face today.

Key Facts

  • *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* will be in theaters on July 31.
  • Peter Parker is at a low point because his identity as Spider-Man is forgotten by the world.
  • Tom Holland says the movie highlights the risks of loneliness and not having support from friends.
  • Loneliness is a public health concern; studies show many young adults feel lonely regularly.
  • The film connects to previous Spider-Man movies where asking for help is important.
  • Peter struggles privately but continues to be a hero in public.
  • The movie’s title suggests a new beginning that Peter hopes for but has not reached yet.
  • Other characters like MJ and Ned live normal lives and don’t remember Peter’s true identity.
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Newsweek
Trump Was Right. Six Months Post-Maduro, Venezuelan Recovery Defies Critics

Trump Was Right. Six Months Post-Maduro, Venezuelan Recovery Defies Critics

July 29, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

In January, President Donald Trump ordered a raid to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and bring him to the U.S. on drug-related charges. Contrary to critics' warnings of chaos, Venezuela has seen political changes, business deals, and reduced repression, although a major earthquake in June caused significant damage and loss of life.

Key Facts

  • President Trump ordered a raid to arrest Nicolás Maduro in January on narco-terrorism charges.
  • Critics warned that U.S. military intervention would cause chaos, citing Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan as examples.
  • Six months after the raid, Venezuela has seen business deals, including Shell and SLB returning to operate in the country.
  • Over 670 political prisoners have been released, and political parties have resumed public activities in Venezuela.
  • Opposition leaders who had been exiled are beginning to return to Venezuela.
  • Open-air TV channels now show news beyond the government narrative, including opposition activities.
  • A powerful earthquake struck Venezuela in June, killing at least 5,000 people and damaging tens of thousands of buildings.
  • The cost to rebuild from the earthquake damage is estimated between $12 billion and $20 billion, more than Venezuela can afford alone.
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Newsweek
US says Iran trying to 'derail ongoing ceasefire talks' as strikes resume

US says Iran trying to 'derail ongoing ceasefire talks' as strikes resume

July 29, 2026 • France24

Summary

Iran fired missiles at U.S. targets in Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, resuming strikes after a pause in fighting. The United States said Iran is trying to disrupt ongoing talks about a ceasefire in the conflict.

Key Facts

  • On July 29, Jordan’s army intercepted five Iranian missiles.
  • The missiles targeted U.S. locations in Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman.
  • This was Iran’s first regional missile strike in several days.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guards confirmed the attack and said it responded to U.S. aggressive actions.
  • The missile strike came during talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran.
  • The U.S. accused Iran of trying to derail the ceasefire discussions.
  • This event is part of an ongoing conflict involving Iran and the United States in the Middle East.
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France24
At least 13 dead in Japan after powerful earthquake

At least 13 dead in Japan after powerful earthquake

July 29, 2026 • France24

Summary

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 hit the Kumamoto area in southern Japan on July 28, 2026. At least 13 people have died, many were injured, and rescue teams are still looking for missing people.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake occurred on July 28, 2026, in Kumamoto, southern Japan.
  • The quake’s strength was measured at 7.1 magnitude.
  • Thirteen people have died so far, including five who died in a factory.
  • Many people were injured by the earthquake.
  • Rescue operations are ongoing to find missing people.
  • Kumamoto is on Kyushu, one of Japan’s main islands in the south.
  • Japan is very prone to earthquakes because it lies on four tectonic plates.
  • This region is part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire," known for frequent volcanic and seismic activity.
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France24
🔴 French DJ Kavinsky, producer of 'Nightcall', dies at 50

🔴 French DJ Kavinsky, producer of 'Nightcall', dies at 50

July 29, 2026 • France24

Summary

French DJ Kavinsky, known for the song "Nightcall" featured in the 2011 movie Drive, has been found dead in his home in Paris. He was 50 years old and recently performed at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Olympics.

Key Facts

  • Kavinsky was a French DJ and music producer.
  • His track "Nightcall" gained fame through the 2011 film Drive.
  • He performed with Belgian singer Angèle at the 2024 Olympics closing ceremony.
  • He was found dead in his Paris home.
  • His age at death was 50 years.
  • The news was reported by local French media on July 29, 2026.
  • Kavinsky’s music contributed to pop culture and international events like the Olympics.
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France24
Russia issues international wanted notice against Telegram founder Pavel Durov for aiding terrorism

Russia issues international wanted notice against Telegram founder Pavel Durov for aiding terrorism

July 29, 2026 • France24

Summary

Russia has issued an international arrest notice for Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, accusing him of helping terrorism. Russian authorities say Telegram allowed channels and bots used by Ukraine to recruit people for sabotage attacks in Russia.

Key Facts

  • Russia's security agency (FSB) says Pavel Durov is wanted internationally for "complicity in terrorism."
  • Durov is the founder and CEO of Telegram, a popular messaging app.
  • Russian officials claim Telegram did not remove chats used by Ukrainian groups planning sabotage and terrorism inside Russia.
  • Russian authorities say Ukrainian intelligence used a Telegram chatbot to recruit Russians for violent acts.
  • Since July 2025, 46 people aged 12 to 22 were arrested for crimes linked to this chatbot.
  • Durov holds French and Emirati passports and lives in France; he has previously faced legal issues in France.
  • If convicted in Russia, Durov could face life in prison.
  • Telegram responded with an image of Durov making a rude gesture, with no further comment.
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France24
Burnham to give speech on social care as Louise Casey plays down cost concerns saying many families ‘already paying’ – UK politics live

Burnham to give speech on social care as Louise Casey plays down cost concerns saying many families ‘already paying’ – UK politics live

July 29, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Andy Burnham is giving a speech about the need to improve social care in England. The government is thinking about changing the way social care is run, aiming to focus more on community-led and not-for-profit services rather than private companies making large profits.

Key Facts

  • The Prime Minister does not want private companies to make large profits from social care funded by taxpayers.
  • The new social care model may look like the NHS or community schemes, rather than current private run services.
  • Louise Casey, leading the government’s social care review, says a mixed market of providers is possible but opposes profiteering from social care.
  • Ed Davey, Liberal Democrat leader, supports private providers making money but warns against excessive profits and calls for better regulation.
  • Andy Burnham wants to build agreement among political parties to reform social care and stop political arguments delaying progress.
  • Zack Polanski, Green party leader, shared a controversial image but refuses to apologize to Nigel Farage for it.
  • The social care debate includes concerns about families paying high costs and the strain on the NHS.
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Guardian World
France and Spain brace for fresh heatwave as warnings issued over risk of new wildfires – Europe live

France and Spain brace for fresh heatwave as warnings issued over risk of new wildfires – Europe live

July 29, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

France and Spain are facing a new heatwave with very high temperatures, just as firefighters have been fighting large wildfires in both countries. Authorities warn that the hot weather increases the risk of more wildfires, although some fires are now under control.

Key Facts

  • Temperatures in France are expected to reach up to 39°C near Bordeaux and high 30s in other major cities.
  • Spain will see even hotter weather, with temperatures up to 42°C in some areas like Pamplona.
  • Both countries have experienced several wildfires, with firefighters working hard to contain them.
  • The French Prime Minister postponed his holiday to manage the wildfire crisis.
  • Sixty-five departments in France are on high fire risk alert.
  • Spain’s Madrid region warns of extreme fire danger but reports stable conditions on the main wildfire near the capital.
  • Volunteers and firefighters are actively working to stop the spread of fires.
  • The heatwave is the fourth this summer in these areas, increasing drought and fire risk.
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Guardian World
US and Saudi Arabia strike ‘Iran-aligned’ groups in Iraq

US and Saudi Arabia strike ‘Iran-aligned’ groups in Iraq

July 29, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States and Saudi Arabia carried out air strikes in Iraq targeting groups linked to Iran. These strikes came after drone attacks on US forces and Saudi oil facilities, and at least 20 members of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces were reported killed.

Key Facts

  • The US and Saudi Arabia launched joint air strikes in Iraq.
  • The strikes targeted groups connected to Iran.
  • The action followed drone attacks on US forces in the region.
  • Saudi oil facilities were also attacked by drones before the strikes.
  • Saudi Arabia described the strikes as an act of self-defense.
  • Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces said at least 20 of their members died in the strikes.
  • The strikes show cooperation between the US and Saudi Arabia against Iran-linked threats.
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Al Jazeera
A heat wave threatens to reignite France’s mega-fire near Bordeaux

A heat wave threatens to reignite France’s mega-fire near Bordeaux

July 29, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A massive wildfire near Bordeaux, France, is still burning a week after it began, threatening the region with dangerous heat above 40°C (104°F) and strong winds. Authorities have evacuated about 220,000 people, while some residents in less-affected areas were allowed to return home under caution. Similar wildfires in Spain have also forced large-scale evacuations, with ongoing efforts to control the fires there.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire near Bordeaux covers an area four times the size of Paris.
  • Around 220,000 people were evacuated from the Gironde region in southwestern France.
  • Temperatures are forecast to rise above 40°C (104°F), which may worsen the fire.
  • Authorities ordered an additional 4,000 people evacuated from Atlantic coast tourist areas.
  • About 60,000 evacuees were allowed to return to their homes in three Bordeaux suburbs.
  • Firefighters continue battling wildfires in Spain, where about 330,000 people have been evacuated across both countries.
  • Spain is facing its fourth heat wave this summer, making fire control difficult.
  • Emergency shelters have been set up for evacuees in affected areas, including Bordeaux’s exhibition center.
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AP News
BTS say they won't submit music to the Grammy Awards

BTS say they won't submit music to the Grammy Awards

July 29, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

K-Pop group BTS announced they will not submit their music for consideration at the 2027 Grammy Awards. They expressed a wish for music to be appreciated for itself, rather than divided by language or region, amid changes in Grammy categories and rules affecting Asian artists.

Key Facts

  • BTS announced on Instagram that they will not enter the 2027 Grammy Awards.
  • Their latest album, *Arirang*, mostly features English lyrics, which disqualifies it from the new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category.
  • The Grammy rules say songs in that category must have “meaningful use” of an Asian language.
  • BTS have been nominated for Grammys five times since 2020 but have never won.
  • All seven BTS members have been voting members of the Recording Academy since 2019.
  • The group has previously performed at the Grammys and received nominations in various categories.
  • Some fans criticized the new Grammy category for Asian artists as limiting rather than inclusive.
  • Several other well-known artists have boycotted the Grammys in recent years over concerns about how the awards recognize music.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Iran and Oman swap proposals to manage Strait of Hormuz: What we know

Iran and Oman swap proposals to manage Strait of Hormuz: What we know

July 29, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iran and Oman are discussing how to manage the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for oil and gas. Oman proposed sharing control evenly, but Iran rejected this and made its own offer that would give Iran more control over the waterway.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow but important channel for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
  • Iran rejected Oman's plan to jointly control the strait with a 50-50 split of shipping lanes.
  • Oman’s proposal suggested dividing the route so ships enter through Iran’s waters and exit through Oman’s, with voluntary fees for navigation.
  • Oman’s plan is similar to an existing agreement in the Strait of Malacca in Southeast Asia.
  • Iran wants most shipping lanes to be under its control to oversee both incoming and outgoing traffic.
  • The strait was closed by Iran after the start of recent conflicts involving the US and Israel, causing global supply problems.
  • A June 17 memorandum between Iran and the US led to a temporary reopening of the waterway, but control issues remain unclear.
  • Diplomatic talks continue as US and Iranian military actions related to the strait have recently paused.
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Al Jazeera
Victorian cults inquiry accidentally shares email address of anonymous survivors with group members

Victorian cults inquiry accidentally shares email address of anonymous survivors with group members

July 29, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A Victorian parliamentary committee investigating harmful cults accidentally shared email addresses of anonymous survivors with current cult members and journalists. The committee apologized, asked recipients to delete the email, and said it is reviewing its processes to prevent future mistakes.

Key Facts

  • A Victorian committee released a report on cults and emailed hundreds about its publication.
  • The email mistakenly showed all recipients’ addresses, including anonymous survivors’ and cult members’.
  • Survivors who trusted anonymity were exposed, raising concerns about their safety and privacy.
  • The committee apologized and asked people to delete and not share the email.
  • The report included 39 recommendations to help deal with cults and support survivors.
  • Suggested actions include new laws against group-based pressure and better police handling of cult cases.
  • The report advises against legally defining "cult" to ensure victims don’t have to prove a group’s label before getting help.
  • Support groups stressed that abuse, not belief, defines cult-like control in various group types.
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Guardian World
Will Germany bring back mandatory military conscription next year?

Will Germany bring back mandatory military conscription next year?

July 29, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Germany is increasing its military forces through voluntary recruitment and modernizing its military service rules. The country aims to build a larger army and stronger defense as part of a response to security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Germany wants to increase its active military force by 80,000 to a total of 260,000 soldiers.
  • The country plans to have 200,000 reservists in addition to active-duty troops.
  • Since January, over 300,000 letters were sent to 18-year-olds to ask if they want to join the military and collect information about their health and education.
  • Women also received the letters but are not legally required to respond, unlike men.
  • The Military Service Modernisation Act started on January 1, setting new rules for young Germans regarding military and civic duties.
  • These military expansions are part of Germany’s plan to build “Europe’s strongest conventional army” announced by Chancellor Friedrich Merz in 2023.
  • Germany’s new military plans signal a stronger commitment to defending Europe and sharing defense responsibilities within NATO.
  • Rayhan Butt, an 18-year-old musician, plans to join the military’s marching band and supports voluntary military or civic service.
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Al Jazeera
Why is Uganda experiencing a food crisis?

Why is Uganda experiencing a food crisis?

July 29, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Uganda is facing a severe food crisis due to a long drought, especially in the Karamoja region where many people rely on farming and livestock. The government has started emergency food aid, but the situation is worsened by climate change, environmental damage, conflict, and past cuts in foreign aid.

Key Facts

  • Uganda is experiencing its worst drought in decades, with no rain since April in Karamoja.
  • At least 19 people have died from starvation in Karamoja; 1.5 million are at risk of malnutrition.
  • The Karamoja region is dry and difficult to live in; most locals depend on farming and livestock.
  • Climate change, environmental damage like deforestation, and overgrazing contribute to the drought.
  • Conflict between cattle herders and raiders has made the crisis worse.
  • Karamoja has been historically marginalized and underdeveloped since colonial times.
  • Cuts in U.S. foreign aid under President Donald Trump have reduced food support.
  • Corruption has diverted funds meant to help the region, worsening governance problems.
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Al Jazeera
Concacaf joins criticism of Fifa plan to sell off World Cup stakes to private investors

Concacaf joins criticism of Fifa plan to sell off World Cup stakes to private investors

July 29, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Concacaf has publicly criticized FIFA’s plan to sell stakes in a new World Cup commercial entity to private investors, expressing concerns over a lack of proper consultation and transparency. The proposed sale, intended to raise billions to fund football projects, has surprised key football leaders who were not informed beforehand.

Key Facts

  • Concacaf and UEFA have both criticized FIFA’s plan to sell World Cup-related commercial rights to private investors.
  • Concacaf officials said they first heard about the plan through media reports, not direct communication from FIFA.
  • The new commercial entity, FIFA Forward Enterprise, is valued at $20 billion and aims to raise about $4.2 billion through the sale.
  • FIFA has given its 211 member associations a deadline of September 19 to agree to the sale and receive payments of around $20 million each starting January next year.
  • Joshua Kushner’s company, Thrive Eternal, is leading the investor group; he is the brother of Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law.
  • UEFA strongly opposes the move, calling it a threat to football’s governance and plans to hold emergency talks on the issue.
  • The sale plan risks increasing pressure to expand the World Cup to 64 teams and hold it more often due to its high commercial value.
  • Britain’s Prime Minister Andy Burnham also criticized the proposal, saying the World Cup does not belong to investors.
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Guardian US
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