June 30, 2025

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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

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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The Hidden Struggles of Women’s Health

The Hidden Struggles of Women’s Health

The article highlights health challenges faced by women, sharing stories that are often overlooked. It includes a woman choosing to freeze her eggs, another living with endometriosis, and a thyroid cancer survivor. A doctor also provides advice for dealing with these health issues.

Key Facts:

  • One woman decided to freeze her eggs to have more choices about starting a family in the future.
  • Endometriosis is a common health condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it; it is often misunderstood or not diagnosed correctly.
  • The article includes insights from an expert to help people understand and manage endometriosis.
  • A thyroid cancer survivor shares her experience of struggling to get her symptoms acknowledged by doctors.
  • A doctor offers practical advice for people who face similar challenges with getting their health concerns taken seriously.

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Messi’s Miami to play PSG at Club World Cup last 16; Atletico knocked out

Messi’s Miami to play PSG at Club World Cup last 16; Atletico knocked out

Lionel Messi's team, Inter Miami, will play against his former club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), in the Club World Cup knockout stage. Miami advanced by drawing 2-2 with Palmeiras, securing second place in their group, while PSG won their group with a victory over the Seattle Sounders.

Key Facts:

  • Lionel Messi's Inter Miami is set to play PSG in the Club World Cup last 16.
  • Inter Miami drew 2-2 with Palmeiras to finish second in their group.
  • PSG advanced after a 2-0 win against the Seattle Sounders, topping their group.
  • Former Barcelona teammates Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba play for Miami.
  • Miami coach Javier Mascherano will face former coach Luis Enrique, who is now with PSG.
  • Porto and Al Ahly were eliminated after a 4-4 draw, leaving both behind Miami and Palmeiras.
  • Atletico Madrid won their game against Botafogo 1-0 but did not advance in the tournament.

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The aftermath of Iranian missile strikes in Israel

The aftermath of Iranian missile strikes in Israel

Iran launched air strikes on Israel as a deadline for a ceasefire approached. The attacks started early Tuesday morning and caused people in Israel to seek shelter. Later, both Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire.

Key Facts:

  • Iran launched air strikes on Israel early Tuesday morning.
  • The air strikes happened after 4am local time in Tehran.
  • Iran's Foreign Minister said attacks would stop if Israel ended its air strikes.
  • Israelis took cover in bomb shelters for about two hours.
  • Several people died, and at least eight were injured in the attacks.
  • Israel's military advised people to stay near shelters after the strikes.
  • The United States confirmed a ceasefire between Iran and Israel.
  • Israel stated it agreed to the ceasefire after meeting its military goals.

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‘Foreigners for both nations’: India pushing Muslims ‘back’ to Bangladesh

‘Foreigners for both nations’: India pushing Muslims ‘back’ to Bangladesh

Ufa Ali, a 67-year-old bicycle mechanic from Assam, India, was detained during a government operation targeting "declared foreign nationals." He and others were taken to the India-Bangladesh border where they spent hours without food or shelter in a disputed area. The incident is part of a broader push to remove people seen as illegal migrants from Assam to Bangladesh, amid ongoing ethnic tensions in the region.

Key Facts:

  • Ufa Ali was detained on May 23 in Assam during a police operation against "declared foreign nationals."
  • Ali spent four days stranded in Bangladesh after being taken to a detention center and then to the India-Bangladesh border.
  • The group, which included women, was left in a no-man’s land area with no access to basic needs.
  • Assam has a history of ethnic tension due to the migration of Bengali-speaking people.
  • Since May, authorities in Assam have moved over 300 Muslims to Bangladesh.
  • Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, supports stronger actions to remove those considered illegal migrants.
  • The Border Security Force (BSF) reportedly used rubber bullets to force people into Bangladesh, though the BSF denies this.
  • Ali and others reported threats and feared violence from the border security forces.

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Who is attending the NATO summit and what’s on the agenda?

Who is attending the NATO summit and what’s on the agenda?

Leaders from NATO countries, including the US and several European nations, are meeting in the Netherlands for a two-day summit to discuss key issues like the war in Ukraine and defense spending. This is the first NATO summit attended by US President Donald Trump since his second term began. They will also address conflicts involving Israel and Iran.

Key Facts:

  • NATO is a military alliance including the US, UK, Canada, and several European countries.
  • The NATO summit takes place in The Hague, Netherlands, lasting two days starting on a Tuesday.
  • US President Donald Trump is attending the summit for the first time in his second term.
  • NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, formerly the Dutch prime minister, will chair the meeting.
  • Discussions will focus on defense spending and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
  • The summit will also cover recent tensions and conflict between Israel and Iran.
  • All 32 NATO member countries' leaders are expected to attend, along with EU and Ukrainian representatives.
  • Leaders from Japan, Australia, South Korea, and New Zealand are also usually invited, with confirmations from Japan and New Zealand.

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Remembering India's iconic crocodile-hunting tigress

Remembering India's iconic crocodile-hunting tigress

Arrowhead, a famous tigress in India, passed away at age 11 in Ranthambore National Park. Known for hunting crocodiles, she was admired for her strength and courage. Arrowhead was a part of a lineage of skilled tigress hunters in the park.

Key Facts:

  • Arrowhead was a well-known tigress in Ranthambore National Park, India.
  • She was named for the arrow-shaped stripe on her cheek.
  • She gained fame for hunting crocodiles, even after her health weakened.
  • Arrowhead died at age 11 due to an illness.
  • She was the daughter and granddaughter of other famous tigresses, Krishna and Machli.
  • Arrowhead had to leave her territory after her daughter Riddhi took over.
  • She gave birth to four sets of cubs, though not all of them survived.
  • In her later years, she developed a tumor which made hunting difficult.

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Purple Heart Army veteran self-deports after nearly 50 years in the U.S.

Purple Heart Army veteran self-deports after nearly 50 years in the U.S.

Sae Joon Park, a U.S. Army veteran who fought in Panama and received a Purple Heart, voluntarily left the United States to avoid deportation after living there for nearly 50 years. Park, a green card holder, faced deportation due to past criminal charges linked to drug possession and failure to appear in court, which he attributed to untreated PTSD.

Key Facts:

  • Sae Joon Park came to the U.S. from South Korea at age 7.
  • Park served in the U.S. Army and was part of the 1989 U.S. invasion of Panama.
  • He was injured in combat, receiving two gunshot wounds, and was awarded a Purple Heart.
  • Park struggled with PTSD and drug addiction after his military service.
  • Park was a green card holder, meaning he was a legal permanent resident but not a U.S. citizen.
  • Immigration authorities gave Park the choice to leave voluntarily or face detention and deportation.
  • Park attributes his legal issues to untreated PTSD.

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TikTok bans #SkinnyTok. But content promoting unhealthy eating persists

TikTok bans #SkinnyTok. But content promoting unhealthy eating persists

TikTok has banned the hashtag #SkinnyTok due to concerns about promoting unhealthy body images and extreme weight loss. However, unhealthy eating advice still appears frequently on TikTok and other social media platforms, posing risks to users, particularly young women and girls.

Key Facts:

  • TikTok banned the hashtag #SkinnyTok after warnings from European regulators about its harmful content.
  • The banned hashtag was linked to content encouraging extreme weight loss and unhealthy body images.
  • Research links exposure to such content with an increased risk of disordered eating.
  • Young women and girls are particularly vulnerable to this type of content.
  • Regulating harmful content on social media is challenging because users find ways to bypass restrictions.
  • Some social media creators promote body-positive content to counter harmful messages.
  • Research indicates that messaging equating thinness with beauty remains widely influential in society.
  • Body-positive content does not attract the same large audiences as content that promotes unrealistic body standards.

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Uncertainty hangs over the status of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran

Uncertainty hangs over the status of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran

Israel and Iran agreed to a ceasefire after President Trump announced that they would stop fighting. However, shortly after the agreement, there were reports of continued airstrikes in Israel, and Israel's Defense Minister ordered a military response. Iran denied breaking the ceasefire.

Key Facts:

  • Israel and Iran both agreed to a ceasefire following President Trump's announcement.
  • Reports of new airstrikes in Israel have brought the ceasefire into question.
  • Israel's Defense Minister responded to the alleged strikes, urging military action.
  • Iran state media denied firing missiles after the ceasefire and confirmed their agreement to it.
  • The conflict began with Israeli attacks on Iran over a week prior and involved missile and drone exchanges.
  • The U.S. bombed Iranian nuclear sites just before the ceasefire agreement.
  • Iran reported 430 civilian deaths from Israeli attacks, while a watchdog reported a total of 974 fatalities, including military personnel.
  • The U.S. successfully intercepted Iranian missile attempts on its bases in Qatar and Iraq.

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Trump announces a ceasefire between Israel and Iran

President Trump announced that Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire. This announcement follows U.S. military actions targeting important nuclear locations in Iran over the weekend.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump shared the news of the ceasefire between Iran and Israel on social media.
  • The U.S. attacked important nuclear sites in Iran during the weekend.
  • The U.S. involvement came before the announcement of the ceasefire.
  • The details of the ceasefire agreement have not been specified in this article.
  • The announcement was made on a Monday.

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Salvadoran journalist's arrest in Georgia sets 'alarming precedent'

Salvadoran journalist's arrest in Georgia sets 'alarming precedent'

Salvadoran journalist Mario Guevara was arrested by local police in Georgia while covering a protest. He is now in custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Guevara's case raises concerns about the treatment of journalists who are not U.S. citizens.

Key Facts:

  • Mario Guevara is a journalist originally from El Salvador who covers immigration in Georgia.
  • He was arrested on June 14 while filming a protest against immigration policies in DeKalb County.
  • Guevara was charged with unlawful assembly and obstruction of officers.
  • During his arrest, Guevara was wearing a vest marked "PRESS."
  • The Department of Homeland Security stated Guevara was detained due to his immigration status, not his work as a journalist.
  • Guevara's attorney claims he entered the U.S. legally and has valid work permission.
  • Guevara has been in the U.S. for around 20 years and is seeking permanent residency.
  • Concerns have been raised that his arrest could negatively impact press freedom for noncitizen journalists in the U.S.

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A announced ceasefire between Israel and Iran remains uncertain

President Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Despite this announcement, reports indicated that airstrikes continued.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran on Monday.
  • Both Israel and Iran issued statements agreeing to the truce.
  • Despite the truce agreement, further airstrikes were reported.
  • The situation on the ground remained tense and uncertain.

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