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Leaked audio recordings reveal that former Israeli military intelligence chief, Maj. Gen. Aharon Haliva, stated that 50,000 Palestinian deaths in Gaza were necessary following Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023. This is the first time a senior Israeli military figure has publicly endorsed such a high Palestinian death toll as crucial.
Key Facts
A leaked audio recording features statements by former Israeli military intelligence chief Aharon Haliva.
Haliva expressed that 50,000 Palestinian deaths in Gaza were necessary for the future.
He stated this as a response to Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Haliva mentioned a ratio of 50 Palestinian deaths for each Israeli killed.
The term "Nakba" was used, referring to the 1948 mass displacement of Palestinians.
This is the first instance of a high-level former military official endorsing a significant death toll.
Haliva was in charge of intelligence prior to the October 7 attack, which he later admitted was a significant failure.
He resigned in April 2024, taking responsibility for underestimating the threat from Gaza.
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Hamas has agreed to a new ceasefire plan for Gaza, proposed by Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The plan includes a 60-day ceasefire and exchanging hostages and prisoners. Talks are ongoing, and Israel has not yet received a formal response from Hamas.
Key Facts
Hamas accepted a ceasefire proposal from Qatar and Egypt.
The proposal is similar to a previous U.S.-backed plan that Israel had accepted.
The deal includes a 60-day ceasefire, releasing 10 live hostages, 18 deceased hostages, and Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli officials are still waiting for a written response from Hamas.
U.S. President Trump has urged Israel to increase its military actions against Hamas.
Over 200,000 Israelis protested against expanding military operations and favored making a deal.
Egyptian and Qatari officials are meeting with Hamas to move negotiations forward.
The proposed deal builds on an earlier plan by the White House with some changes.
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European leaders traveled to the United States to discuss the situation in Ukraine amid concerns about changes in U.S. policy after President Trump's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. These leaders want to ensure ongoing support for Ukraine and address any potential long-term security threats to Europe. They aim to influence U.S. policy on peace terms and future security guarantees.
Key Facts
European leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Giorgia Meloni, visited Washington to discuss Ukraine.
They responded to changes in U.S. strategy following a meeting between Trump and Putin.
President Trump expressed no intention to impose new economic sanctions on Russia.
European leaders fear that U.S. policy changes could benefit Russia and pose a threat to European security.
The leaders aim to prevent Ukraine from being forced into unfavorable peace terms.
European officials want to ensure security guarantees are robust and go beyond verbal promises.
There is a focus on preventing the Donbas region from being ceded to Russia as a peace condition.
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The United States has provided Ukraine with substantial support since Russia's invasion, totaling $130.6 billion from January 2022 to June 2025, according to the Kiel Institute. The US is the largest single donor to Ukraine, but Europe's combined contributions exceed the US amount, totaling $165.7 billion in the same period. Aid from both the US and Europe includes a mix of grants and loans, with the US giving more grants and Europe more loans.
Key Facts
The US spent $130.6 billion on Ukraine from January 2022 to June 2025, as per the Kiel Institute.
The US Department of Defense cites a higher figure of $184.8 billion up to March 2025.
Former President Donald Trump claimed US spending was more than $300 billion, a figure not supported by evidence.
Europe as a whole spent $165.7 billion on Ukraine between January 2022 and June 2025.
Aid includes military, financial, and humanitarian support.
The US provided more grants, while Europe lent more in loans to Ukraine.
EU loans often come with low interest, and some loans might be repaid using frozen Russian assets.
The UK has provided $29.5 billion to Ukraine, including $17.6 billion in military aid.
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Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met at the White House to discuss potential peace efforts involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia. Trump proposed "NATO-like" security support for Ukraine without committing U.S. troops, and European leaders also attended the meeting to express support for Ukraine. The meeting aimed to facilitate future discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the conflict in Ukraine.
Key Facts
Trump and Zelenskyy discussed potential three-party talks with Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
Trump suggested European security guarantees for Ukraine but did not commit U.S. troops.
European leaders attended the meeting to show solidarity with Ukraine.
Zelenskyy presented a letter from his wife to Trump's wife during the meeting.
Trump mentioned the possibility of a future meeting involving the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia.
Zelenskyy indicated openness to trilateral talks.
Trump had recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
European leaders aim to protect Ukraine and prevent further aggression from Russia.
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Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities have resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people, just as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits the United States for important discussions with President Donald Trump about the future of Ukraine. The attacks include a drone strike on a residential area in Kharkiv and other assaults in regions like Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, and Odesa.
Key Facts
At least 12 people died from Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities.
An entire family was killed in a drone strike on Kharkiv, injuring 20, including children.
Russian forces launched 140 drones and four missiles at Ukraine overnight.
Ukraine's air force downed 88 of the drones.
Ukraine struck an oil-pumping station in Russia, stopping some oil supplies.
Talks between Zelenskyy and Trump involve peace strategies and land/security issues.
Ukraine's government forbids ceding territory as part of peace agreements.
The Ukrainian conflict is now in its fourth year.
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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky's last visit to the White House ended in conflict. Zelensky is planning another trip and aims to avoid a similar situation.
Key Facts
Zelensky's previous meeting at the White House ended in a heated argument.
He was asked to leave after the disagreement.
Zelensky plans to meet again but wants to prevent past issues from recurring.
The meeting involves international relations between Ukraine and the US.
The situation is linked to broader geopolitical dynamics, including the conflict in Ukraine.
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Hamas has agreed to a new ceasefire plan with Israel, mediated by Egypt and Qatar. The plan includes a two-stage process for releasing Israeli hostages and establishing a temporary truce lasting 60 days, during which time a permanent ceasefire will be discussed.
Key Facts
Hamas agreed to a ceasefire proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar.
The proposal includes releasing about half of the 50 Israeli hostages.
This plan involves a two-stage release of hostages over 60 days.
A ceasefire and Israeli troop withdrawal are part of the temporary truce.
There was no immediate reaction from Israeli officials about this deal.
A large protest took place in Tel Aviv, urging the Israeli government to negotiate the hostages' return.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the protesters.
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Closing arguments have begun in the national security trial of Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy figure and media tycoon in Hong Kong. Lai faces charges under Hong Kong's national security law, which officials say was implemented to restore order, but critics argue it restricts free speech. If found guilty, Lai could face a life sentence.
Key Facts
Jimmy Lai is a pro-democracy media tycoon in Hong Kong.
Lai is on trial for charges under Hong Kong's national security law, which criminalizes acts like secession and collusion with foreign forces.
The trial began in December 2023 and is in its final stages with closing arguments.
The law was introduced in 2020 after mass protests in Hong Kong.
Lai's newspaper, Apple Daily, was shut down in 2021 due to the new law.
Lai has pleaded not guilty and can face up to life in prison if convicted.
Prosecutors emphasize Lai's international connections, including meetings with U.S. political figures.
Lai's supporters gathered outside the courthouse, expressing concern for his well-being.
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The article describes the ongoing impact on Palestinian families in Gaza, highlighting the story of Janat and her family's losses due to the conflict with Israel. Over a period of almost two years, Janat's family has suffered multiple personal tragedies, reflecting broader experiences in Gaza. As the conflict continues, thousands of families in Gaza have been wiped out or severely affected.
Key Facts
Janat's brother Mohammed was killed along with six other journalists when Israel bombed a media tent near a hospital.
The article recounts multiple losses in Janat's family due to bombings, including her brothers Omar and Mohammed, and her mother Muneera.
The conflict has resulted in the complete erasure of 2,200 Palestinian families from the civil registry as of March this year.
More than 5,120 families have only one surviving member left due to the ongoing conflict and bombings.
The article mentions continuing Israeli military actions in northern Gaza, affecting civilian lives.
Janat fears for her remaining family members, as loss and grief have become ongoing parts of their daily existence.
The journalist shares a personal connection, noting his own family's similar losses in Gaza.
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The BBC postponed a documentary about Ozzy Osbourne's last years, originally set to air on Monday. The documentary, now a one-hour film, covers his return to the UK and his final concert before his death. No reason was given for rescheduling, and a new date is not yet confirmed.
Key Facts
The BBC postponed a documentary called "Ozzy Osbourne: Coming Home."
It was originally scheduled to air on BBC One at 9:00 PM BST.
The documentary covers Ozzy's return to the UK and his last concert in Birmingham.
The film shows events leading up to Ozzy's death at 76.
It was initially planned as a 10-part series but became a single-hour film.
The documentary has "unique and intimate access" to the Osbourne family.
The BBC has not provided a new airing date or reason for the postponement.
The postponed film was replaced by another show called "Fake Or Fortune?" on BBC One.
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The U.S. special envoy to Lebanon, Tom Barrack, is in talks with Lebanese officials about achieving a long-term ceasefire with Israel. Lebanon has agreed to a U.S.-backed plan to disarm the Hezbollah group, which has caused tension with Hezbollah and its allies.
Key Facts
The U.S. envoy to Lebanon, Tom Barrack, is discussing a ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel.
Lebanon agreed to a plan supported by the U.S. to disarm the Hezbollah group.
The disarmament plan has upset Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.
Hezbollah's leader, Naim Kassem, opposes disarming and warns of potential unrest.
Lebanese leaders want Israel to stop attacks and withdraw from occupied areas.
Lebanon's President Aoun aims to get more funding for the country's military and reconstruction.
The World Bank estimated that recent conflicts caused $11.1 billion in damages in Lebanon.
Lebanon has been facing a severe economic crisis since 2019.
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The article explains how space has become a new area for warfare, highlighting a recent incident where hackers interrupted Ukrainian TV using a satellite to show Russian military parades. It discusses the vulnerability of satellites, which play vital roles in communication and military operations, and notes concerns about Russia developing a space-based nuclear weapon that could disrupt satellites.
Key Facts
Hackers supporting Russia hijacked a satellite to broadcast Russian military parades to Ukraine.
Satellites are crucial for communication, navigation, military operations, and intelligence.
Over 12,000 satellites orbit Earth, making them potential targets in conflicts.
Cybersecurity threats to satellites can involve outdated software or weak security measures.
During the 2022 Ukraine invasion, a hack targeted Viasat, affecting European satellite communication.
U.S. officials warn of a potential Russian nuclear space weapon aimed at destroying satellites.
This weapon could breach treaties prohibiting space-based weapons of mass destruction.
Such a weapon could disrupt satellite operations significantly, affecting global economies and security.
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Russian forces have been involved in a long conflict in Ukraine, starting with a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Since then, there have been various territorial shifts, counteroffensives by Ukraine, and discussions about peace, including meetings between world leaders. Recent actions include drone strikes and discussions of Russia's demands for Ukraine to leave part of the Donetsk region.
Key Facts
Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, attacking from multiple directions.
Ukraine pushed back Russian forces from Kyiv and Chernihiv by April 2022.
Russia annexed four regions in Ukraine in September 2022, although it did not fully control them.
Ukraine launched a counteroffensive in August 2022, reclaiming significant territories.
In May 2023, Russia announced it had control over Bakhmut.
Both countries increased drone strikes into each other's territories by summer 2025.
Putin and Trump met in August 2025 to discuss ending the conflict, with Russia demanding Ukraine's withdrawal from part of the Donetsk region.
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The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has warned parents to stop using Nutrition Ignition Kids Magnesium Glycinate Gummies. This is because the gummies contain melatonin, a drug not listed on the label, which can cause side effects in children. The gummies have now been removed from sale and parents are advised to report any side effects to health authorities.
Key Facts
The gummies were found to contain melatonin, a substance not listed in the ingredients.
Melatonin can cause side effects like drowsiness and nausea in children.
The MHRA tested two batches, finding 1.5mg to 1.7mg of melatonin per gummy.
Melatonin requires a prescription and is used to help with sleep issues in some children.
Parents are advised to dispose of the gummies at pharmacies.
The Nutrition Ignition website and online sales of the gummies have been shut down.
The gummies were recommended for children aged four and up to help with calmness and focus.
Concern arose when two mothers noticed their children falling asleep quickly after eating the gummies and had them tested.
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Leaders from Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. are discussing peace talks amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelensky wants lasting peace and a ceasefire, while Russian President Putin is demanding Ukraine withdraw from certain areas. Former President Trump is involved, hosting meetings to explore possible agreements.
Key Facts
President Zelensky is seeking a lasting peace deal in Ukraine without losing more land to Russia.
Russian President Putin demands Ukraine withdraw from Ukrainian regions Donetsk and Luhansk, which Russia partially controls.
Former President Trump plans to host Zelensky and European leaders at the White House for discussions.
Trump claims he could end the conflict quickly but wants both sides to make concessions.
Zelensky wants Ukraine to receive NATO-like security guarantees from the U.S. and Europe.
Putin is open to Ukraine withdrawing from Donetsk in exchange for stopping Russian advancement in other areas.
Zelensky suggests new sanctions if Russia does not engage in good faith in trilateral talks.
Trump's meetings are happening amid ongoing violence, with recent Russian attacks in Ukraine killing civilians.
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Two brigades from the Shia-dominated Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) stormed Iraq's Ministry of Agriculture. This event has sparked discussions within the government about integrating the PMF into the state to ensure they follow laws. Some see this integration as a way to control the PMF, while others fear it could legitimize already powerful militias.
Key Facts
On July 27, PMF brigades stormed Iraq's Ministry of Agriculture.
The incident led to a clash with police officers, resulting in one officer's death.
The brigades were called by Ayad Kadhim Ali, affiliated with Kataib Hezbollah.
The Iraqi government discusses legislation to integrate the PMF into the state.
The PMF is a group of mostly Shia armed organizations with some ties to Iran.
In 2016, Iraq's parliament recognized the PMF as part of national security.
The PMF received a budget of $3.4 billion in 2024, higher than Lebanon's total budget.
There are an estimated 238,000 fighters in the PMF.
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Hurricane Erin, a Category 4 storm, is moving near the U.S. East Coast and the Bahamas but is not expected to hit the mainland directly. Despite this, the storm's high winds and potential flooding have led to evacuation orders in parts of North Carolina. Authorities warn of dangerous surf and rip currents along the East Coast for several days.
Key Facts
Hurricane Erin has winds near 140 mph.
The storm is not expected to make landfall in the U.S.
Evacuation orders are in place for Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands in North Carolina.
Flooding could block Highway 12 on the Outer Banks for several days.
The hurricane is about 140 miles north of Grand Turk Island.
Dangerous waves and rip currents are expected from Florida to Massachusetts.
Erin's winds extend 80 miles from its center, with tropical-storm-force winds reaching up to 230 miles.
The Turks and Caicos Islands are experiencing large waves and sea swells.
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In 2014, Russia took control of the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine, leading to tensions with Western countries. This act later contributed to a larger conflict between Russia and Ukraine starting in 2022. The Crimean region is strategically important due to its location and military value.
Key Facts
Russia took over Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014 without any fighting.
A referendum was held in Crimea to join Russia, but Ukraine and Western countries called it illegal.
Russia’s actions in Crimea led to worsening relations with Western countries, resulting in sanctions against Russia.
Russia's annexation of Crimea boosted the popularity of its President, Vladimir Putin, at home.
Fighting in eastern Ukraine began after the annexation, involving pro-Russian groups and Ukrainian forces.
Crimea's location makes it strategically important for military and trade routes in the Black Sea.
Russia used Crimea as a base for deploying troops during its larger invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
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Wildfires in Spain and Portugal have caused six deaths and burned large areas of land. Thousands of firefighters, with military support, are working to control the fires, which are fueled by heatwaves and drought. Both countries are facing significant challenges and damages due to the fires.
Key Facts
Wildfires have resulted in six deaths: two in Portugal and four in Spain.
Heatwaves and drought, linked to climate change, are making the fires worse.
In Portugal, 3,800 firefighters are working to control five major fires.
Approximately 2,160 square kilometers of land have burned in Portugal this year.
Spain has experienced 23 active fires, burning about 3,430 square kilometers.
A firefighter in Spain died when his truck overturned while battling a blaze.
Fires are mainly affecting the regions of Galicia, Castile and Leon, and Extremadura in Spain.
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