July 02, 2025

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Does Congress or the president hold war powers? Here's what to know

Does Congress or the president hold war powers? Here's what to know

June 23, 2025
In a recent action, President Trump launched airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities without consulting Congress, sparking debate about the distribution of war powers between Congress and the President. The U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war, while the President acts as the Commander in Chief, leading to ongoing disputes over military actions.

Key Facts:

  • President Trump ordered airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities without Congress's approval.
  • Some lawmakers criticized the President, claiming the Constitution requires Congress to declare war.
  • Article I of the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war.
  • Article II names the President as the Commander in Chief of the military.
  • Historically, U.S. presidents have sent forces into conflict without formal war declarations.
  • Technological advancements and global institutions like the U.N. influenced quicker military responses post-World War II.
  • The U.N. Charter limits the use of force by member states, permitting it mainly for self-defense or with Security Council approval.

Source Information

NPR Home

The Middle East conflict could affect a vital waterway for world energy supplies

June 23, 2025
Iran has warned that it might close the Strait of Hormuz after the U.S. bombed its nuclear sites. This strait is an important route for global energy shipments.

Key Facts:

  • Iran said it may shut down the Strait of Hormuz.
  • This warning follows U.S. bombings of Iranian nuclear facilities over the weekend.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow water channel.
  • It is a key route for transporting energy supplies worldwide.
  • If closed, it could disrupt energy shipments globally.

Source Information

NPR Middle East

Israel used to be deterred from attacking Iran. Not anymore

June 23, 2025
Israel is now less cautious about taking military action against Iran. Recently, the U.S. conducted a military strike on Iran, and Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is feeling more confident about this change in U.S. policy.

Key Facts:

  • Israel used to be cautious about attacking Iran.
  • The United States recently conducted a military strike on Iran.
  • Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel's Prime Minister.
  • Netanyahu has focused on Iran for a long time.
  • There was a period when President Trump seemed to limit Netanyahu's options regarding Iran.
  • After the U.S. action, Netanyahu is feeling more confident.

Source Information

NPR Middle East
Wreck of sunken $30m yacht Bayesian to be examined

Wreck of sunken $30m yacht Bayesian to be examined

June 23, 2025
The British superyacht Bayesian, which sank in a storm last summer, has been recovered from the seabed in Sicily. The yacht belonged to tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, and the sinking resulted in seven deaths, including Lynch. Now on land, Italian prosecutors will examine the wreck to investigate the causes of the incident, which are currently unknown.

Key Facts:

  • The Bayesian yacht sank last summer during a storm near Sicily, causing the deaths of seven people.
  • The yacht belonged to Mike Lynch, a British tech entrepreneur.
  • Italian authorities are investigating the incident for possible manslaughter and negligent shipwreck.
  • A complex $30 million operation was conducted to recover the wreck from the seabed.
  • During the recovery, a diver was killed in an underwater explosion, delaying the operation.
  • Remote-controlled submersibles replaced divers to complete the salvage safely.
  • The yacht is now in a port where it will dry out before further inspections.
  • Investigators plan to examine if human error or design flaws contributed to the sinking.

Source Information

BBC World

Trump heads to NATO

June 23, 2025
President Trump is attending a NATO meeting in The Hague shortly after ordering military actions in Iran. The meeting will focus on defense spending among NATO member countries.

Key Facts:

  • NATO is an international military alliance that includes countries from North America and Europe.
  • President Trump is traveling to The Hague to meet with leaders of NATO member countries.
  • The visit happens just days after Trump ordered strikes on Iran.
  • A main topic for the meeting is how much each country spends on defense.
  • Defense spending has been a frequent discussion point within NATO, especially regarding each country's financial contributions.
  • The meeting in The Hague is part of ongoing discussions on international security and alliance commitments.

Source Information

NPR World

Iranians react to strikes on country's nuclear facilities

June 23, 2025
Iranians have mixed feelings about recent U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. Some people hope the strikes will weaken the current government, while others fear it could lead to a larger conflict.

Key Facts:

  • U.S. strikes targeted Iran's nuclear facilities.
  • The strikes have led to mixed reactions among the Iranian population.
  • Some Iranians hope these strikes might weaken Iran’s government.
  • Others are worried the strikes could escalate into a larger war.
  • The uncertainty is causing confusion among the people in Iran.

Source Information

NPR Middle East

Iran retaliates against U.S. strikes

June 23, 2025
Iran launched missiles at a significant U.S. air base in Qatar in response to recent U.S. military airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Prior to Iran's action, President Trump warned Iran not to retaliate after the U.S. strikes.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. military conducted airstrikes on Iran's nuclear sites over the weekend.
  • Iran responded by firing missiles at a major U.S. air base located in Qatar.
  • President Trump had cautioned Iran against retaliating for the U.S. attacks.
  • The conflict involves strategic sites important to both nations.
  • Both actions signal escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.

Source Information

NPR World
Watch: Video shows aftermath of Israeli strikes on Iran

Watch: Video shows aftermath of Israeli strikes on Iran

June 23, 2025
Since June 13, 2025, Israel and Iran have been exchanging missile strikes, with Israeli attacks reportedly targeting Iranian security and military sites. Iran claims 500 deaths from these strikes, while a human rights group reports 950 fatalities. The ongoing attacks have also resulted in 24 Israeli deaths due to Iranian strikes.

Key Facts:

  • Israel has targeted sites in Tehran and Karaj in Iran.
  • The attacks reportedly hit Iranian security forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
  • Iran's health ministry reports around 500 deaths from Israeli strikes; a rights group claims 950.
  • Israeli authorities say 24 Israelis have died from Iranian attacks.
  • Both countries continue exchanging missile fire nightly.
  • Each side's leadership vows to continue military actions.
  • The conflict began with intensified strikes from Israel on June 13, 2025.
  • Media footage shows damage and explosions in both Israel and Iran.

Source Information

BBC World
Israel says it struck Tehran's Evin prison and Fordo access routes

Israel says it struck Tehran's Evin prison and Fordo access routes

June 23, 2025
Israel attacked Tehran's Evin prison and access routes to the Fordo nuclear site. Iran's judiciary reported the attack on the prison, and both sides reported casualties from ongoing military actions between Israel and Iran.

Key Facts:

  • Israel carried out strikes on Tehran's Evin prison, which holds many political prisoners.
  • Iran's judiciary claimed the attack on Evin violated international law.
  • France condemned the attack on Evin because it endangered its citizens.
  • Israel also attacked access routes to the Fordo uranium enrichment plant.
  • Iranian missile strikes on Israel have killed 24 people, according to Israeli authorities.
  • Israel's recent air campaign is aimed at Iran's nuclear and missile programs.
  • Damage at Evin included a prosecutor's office and reports of injuries among prison visitors.
  • Amnesty International criticized the attack, saying it may be a war crime.

Source Information

BBC World
Wildfires rage on Greek island of Chios

Wildfires rage on Greek island of Chios

June 23, 2025
Fires are burning on the Greek island of Chios, forcing evacuations and causing damage to homes and the power grid. Firefighters, supported by aircraft and helicopters, are working to contain the blazes, while an investigation is underway to find the cause.

Key Facts:

  • A state of emergency is declared on Chios due to five wildfires.
  • 17 communities on the island have been evacuated.
  • An investigation has started to determine if arson caused the fires.
  • Fires damaged homes, crops, and the local power grid, leading to electricity outages.
  • Approximately 190 firefighters and 11 aircraft are working on the island.
  • Extra firefighters are coming from Athens and Thessaloniki for support.
  • Local temperatures are around 30°C and may rise later in the week.
  • The fires have led to planned power cuts to aid firefighting efforts.

Source Information

BBC World
Police officers charged with murder of Kenyan blogger

Police officers charged with murder of Kenyan blogger

June 23, 2025
Three Kenyan police officers have been charged with the murder of a blogger named Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody. The incident has led to protests in Nairobi, with accusations of police using too much force against demonstrators.

Key Facts:

  • Three police officers and three civilians have been charged with the murder of Albert Ojwang.
  • Albert Ojwang died in police custody, and his death has caused public anger and protests.
  • Police initially claimed Ojwang died from self-inflicted wounds but later retracted this after an autopsy showed he likely died from being assaulted.
  • The blogger was arrested after being accused of defaming the deputy police chief on social media.
  • The deputy police chief involved, Eliud Lagat, has stepped aside while investigations continue and denies any wrongdoing.
  • A street vendor was shot and critically injured by police during a protest in Nairobi related to Ojwang's death.
  • Activists have called for an economic shutdown to protest against police brutality and mark the anniversary of past protests against tax increases.

Source Information

BBC World
Netanyahu and Trump 'totally aligned' on Iran - Barkat

Netanyahu and Trump 'totally aligned' on Iran - Barkat

June 23, 2025
The Israeli economy minister stated that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and former U.S. President Trump have been in agreement on actions against Iran. Recently, Israel carried out strikes targeting Iran, with operations aimed at Iran's nuclear and military sites.

Key Facts:

  • Israeli economy minister Nir Barkat mentioned alignment between Netanyahu and Trump concerning Iran.
  • Israeli forces recently targeted Evin prison in Tehran with airstrikes.
  • An Iranian missile attack hit Tel Aviv, leading to emergency response efforts.
  • The city of Bat Yam near Tel Aviv was also struck by Iranian forces.
  • Continuous exchanges of attacks have occurred between Iran and Israel.
  • Israel's Operation Rising Lion aimed at Iran's nuclear and military capabilities, according to Prime Minister Netanyahu.
  • Iran retaliated with missile launches, claiming extensive damage.
  • Satellite imagery and videos show the impact of Israeli strikes on Iran.

Source Information

BBC World
Nato summit could be the most significant since end of Cold War

Nato summit could be the most significant since end of Cold War

June 23, 2025
A NATO summit is taking place in the Netherlands with US President Trump attending. The meeting focuses on defense spending and seeks to strengthen US-Europe ties amid recent tensions. The summit occurs as global attention is on US-Iran relations following US attacks on Iran's nuclear sites.

Key Facts:

  • US President Trump is attending a NATO summit in the Netherlands.
  • This is Trump's first NATO meeting since being re-elected as President.
  • European countries aim to increase defense spending to show they can handle more security themselves.
  • There are concerns about US-Europe relations due to recent tensions over trade and military commitments.
  • US actions against Iran add urgency to the summit, raising questions about discussions on the Middle East.
  • Some European countries, like Spain, have resisted the new defense spending targets.
  • NATO leaders want stronger US involvement, fearing weakness could embolden rivals like Russia and China.
  • There is uncertainty about whether the US will agree to identify Russia as the main threat to NATO.

Source Information

BBC World
Scottish wingsuit flyer Liam Byrne dies during Swiss Alps jump

Scottish wingsuit flyer Liam Byrne dies during Swiss Alps jump

June 23, 2025
Liam Byrne, a 24-year-old wingsuit flyer from Scotland, died during a jump in the Swiss Alps. He was an experienced flyer, with over 4,000 jumps in his 10-year career, and was recently featured in a BBC documentary. Authorities in Switzerland are investigating the incident.

Key Facts:

  • Liam Byrne was a 24-year-old wingsuit flyer from Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.
  • He died during a jump from the Gitschen mountain in the Swiss Alps.
  • Byrne was featured in a BBC documentary called "The Boy Who Can Fly."
  • He had completed more than 4,000 jumps over a 10-year career.
  • Wingsuit flying involves wearing a suit with webbing to help lift in the air.
  • Byrne began extreme sports at a young age, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at 12.
  • His family confirmed his death and released a tribute to him.
  • Swiss authorities are investigating the cause of the fatal incident.

Source Information

BBC World
Iran attacks a U.S. base in Qatar

Iran attacks a U.S. base in Qatar

June 23, 2025
On June 23, 2025, Iran launched missile attacks on U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. The attack followed U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and caused no reported injuries, as Qatar intercepted the missiles.

Key Facts:

  • Iran fired missiles at U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq.
  • Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar was targeted with short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles from Iran.
  • There were no U.S. casualties reported due to the attack.
  • Qatar's air defenses intercepted Iranian missiles aimed at the airbase.
  • The U.S. had airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites before this attack.
  • President Trump stated the U.S. received advance notice from Iran about the strikes.
  • Qatar condemned the attack as a violation of its sovereignty and may respond.
  • The United Nations Secretary-General called for an end to military escalation in the region.

Source Information

NPR Home
Rescuers search for Brazilian tourist on Indonesian volcano

Rescuers search for Brazilian tourist on Indonesian volcano

June 23, 2025
Rescuers in Indonesia are searching for Brazilian tourist Juliana Marins, who fell near the crater of Mount Rinjani, a popular volcano for hikers. Foggy weather and difficult terrain are making the search challenging. Ms. Marins, who has been without supplies for several days, was seen in drone footage but could not be found by rescuers.

Key Facts:

  • Juliana Marins, a 26-year-old Brazilian tourist, went missing while hiking on Mount Rinjani in Indonesia.
  • She fell from a cliff near the volcano’s crater area on Saturday.
  • Rescuers initially heard her cries for help, but later could not locate her due to difficult conditions and fog.
  • Drone footage showed her alive on Saturday, but she was not responsive when rescuers approached her location.
  • Bad weather has slowed down rescue efforts, with rescuers needing to suspend searches due to “climate conditions.”
  • Her family stated she has been without water, food, or warm clothing for three days.
  • The Brazilian government is working with Indonesian authorities on the rescue mission.
  • Mount Rinjani is a popular hiking destination and Indonesia's second-tallest volcano.

Source Information

BBC World
Strait of Hormuz: What happens if Iran shuts global oil corridor?

Strait of Hormuz: What happens if Iran shuts global oil corridor?

June 23, 2025
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway where about 20% of the world's oil and gas is transported. There is concern that if Iran decides to close this strait, it could significantly affect the global economy by increasing oil prices and causing disruptions in trade. Many countries, especially in Asia, rely heavily on oil transported through this channel.

Key Facts:

  • The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between the Gulf and the Arabian Sea.
  • Around 20% of global oil and gas passes through this strait.
  • Major oil producers like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE use this route for exports.
  • In the first half of 2023, about 20 million barrels of oil went through the strait daily.
  • Closing the strait could raise oil prices and disrupt world markets.
  • China, India, and Japan are major importers of oil from the strait.
  • Iran's decision to close the strait would be made by its Supreme National Security Council and Supreme Leader.
  • A closure could lead to higher costs for goods and services globally due to increased production and shipping expenses.

Source Information

BBC World
Israel strikes Tehran and Fordo site, as Russia backs Iran in deepening conflict

Israel strikes Tehran and Fordo site, as Russia backs Iran in deepening conflict

June 23, 2025
Israel launched airstrikes on Tehran and the Fordo nuclear facility, claiming they targeted Iranian command centers and nuclear sites. Russia's President Putin criticized U.S. attacks on Iran and expressed support for Iran, highlighting collaboration between Russia and Iran during this conflict.

Key Facts:

  • Israel conducted airstrikes on Tehran and the Fordo nuclear facility.
  • The strikes targeted Iranian command centers linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
  • Israel said these attacks were a response to Iranian missile fire.
  • Iran's judiciary dismissed claims of unrest in Evin Prison due to the strikes.
  • The IRGC launched new missile and drone attacks as part of their counteractions.
  • Russian President Putin condemned U.S. strikes on Iran and pledged support for Iran.
  • The meeting between Putin and Iran's Foreign Minister indicated closer ties between Russia and Iran.
  • Experts suggest Iran may have hidden capabilities to further its nuclear program despite the strikes.

Source Information

NPR Home
Key takeaways from the U.S. airstrikes on Iran. And, how Iran could respond

Key takeaways from the U.S. airstrikes on Iran. And, how Iran could respond

June 23, 2025
The U.S. recently struck three nuclear sites in Iran to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. These strikes happened without asking Congress first, which has led to debate in the U.S. Meanwhile, Iran has considered how to respond, even firing missiles at Israel after the American strikes.

Key Facts:

  • The U.S. targeted three nuclear sites in Iran to prevent nuclear weapon development.
  • The strikes were done without Congress's approval or notifying top Democrats.
  • Israel had launched attacks on Iran just over a week before the U.S. strikes.
  • U.S. officials claimed the strikes significantly damaged Iran's nuclear program, but experts disagree about the extent of the damage.
  • The decision to strike has faced criticism from Democrats and some Republicans, who argue it was unconstitutional.
  • Iran fired missiles at Israel in response and is considering further actions, including cyber attacks and disrupting oil shipping.
  • Israeli leaders state that they aim to weaken Iran's missile and nuclear capabilities.

Source Information

NPR World
Climate change is boosting the risk of sleep apnea

Climate change is boosting the risk of sleep apnea

June 23, 2025
A study in the journal Nature Communications found that higher temperatures due to climate change increase the risk of sleep apnea. People are more likely to have sleep disruptions, especially when it's 80 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.

Key Facts:

  • Sleep apnea is a condition where a person's breathing stops and starts during sleep.
  • The study found that sleep apnea risk rises by almost 50% when temperatures are 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher compared to the 50s.
  • Severe sleep apnea cases, where people stop breathing more than 30 times in an hour, also increase by 40% in hotter weather.
  • An estimated one billion people globally have sleep apnea, but it is often undiagnosed.
  • Disrupted sleep from sleep apnea can impact mood, work ability, and health, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes.
  • The study analyzed two years of sleep data from over 125,000 people in 41 countries, using sensors under mattresses to track sleep patterns.
  • The rise in sleep apnea was more significant in northern countries like Europe and Russia compared to the U.S., possibly due to less air conditioning.
  • Climate change has increased global temperatures, making sleep problems worse, with further impacts expected as temperatures climb.

Source Information

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