The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Family condemns Hamas video showing emaciated Israeli hostage

Family condemns Hamas video showing emaciated Israeli hostage

Summary

The family of Evyatar David, an Israeli hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, accused the group of starving him for propaganda. A video released by Hamas shows David as very thin and claiming he lacks food and water. The family called on the Israeli government and global community to help free him.

Key Facts

  • Evyatar David is an Israeli hostage held by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023.
  • A video shows David in a tunnel, appearing very thin and stating he hasn't eaten for days.
  • David's family claims Hamas is starving him to use as a propaganda tool.
  • They urge the Israeli government and international community to act for his release.
  • Israel alleges no starvation in Gaza, despite accusations of restricting aid access.
  • The Israel Defense Forces stated they are working to improve humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
  • Aid packages have been airdropped into Gaza with cooperation from several countries.
  • Reports of deaths from malnutrition in Gaza continue during the ongoing conflict.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Ukraine says defence sector corruption scheme uncovered

Ukraine says defence sector corruption scheme uncovered

Summary

Ukrainian authorities have arrested several officials accused of being part of a corruption scheme in the defense sector. This occurred shortly after Ukraine's anticorruption bodies regained their independence following public protests. The scheme involved inflating contract prices for military equipment like drones.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian officials arrested four people for a corruption scheme in the defense sector.
  • The scheme involved paying too much for military drones and signal jamming systems.
  • The suspects allegedly accepted kickbacks, which are illegal payments, up to 30% of contract amounts.
  • Those arrested included a lawmaker, local officials, and National Guard members.
  • The National Guard members involved have been suspended.
  • Ukraine's anticorruption agencies had recently regained independence after protests.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy faced criticism for trying to reduce the agencies' independence but later restored it.
  • The restoration was important for Ukraine's hopes of joining the European Union.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Hamas refuses to disarm until Palestinian state established

Hamas refuses to disarm until Palestinian state established

Summary

Hamas has stated that it will not disarm until a sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital is established. This is a response to international pressure, including from Israel and some Western countries, calling for Hamas to give up its weapons. Negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a ceasefire and hostage release have stalled amid worsening conditions in Gaza.

Key Facts

  • Hamas refuses to disarm until a Palestinian state is established with Jerusalem as its capital.
  • Israel sees disarmament of Hamas as a key condition for a ceasefire.
  • Indirect talks for a ceasefire and hostage release between Israel and Hamas have stalled.
  • Western nations like France and Canada have announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state.
  • The UN reports over 1,373 Palestinians have died from conflict-related to food shortages.
  • Israeli military actions in Gaza followed a Hamas-led attack in October 2023, which killed around 1,200 people.
  • Humanitarian conditions in Gaza are worsening, with reports of starvation, despite Israel disputing these claims.
  • US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is involved in negotiations and met with families of hostages in Israel.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

MP investigated over late filing of overseas trip

MP investigated over late filing of overseas trip

Summary

UK Member of Parliament Cat Eccles is being investigated for not registering a trip to Israel and Palestine on time. The trip, which included meetings with various groups, was supposed to be registered within 28 days but was filed late. The trip was sponsored by Labour Friends of Israel and cost £2,600.

Key Facts

  • MP Cat Eccles is under investigation for late registration of a trip.
  • The trip was to Israel and Palestine.
  • It took place from 25 to 29 May but was registered on 9 July.
  • The trip included flights, accommodation, and meals worth £2,600.
  • It was sponsored by Labour Friends of Israel.
  • The purpose was to meet politicians, academics, activists, and diplomats.
  • The standards commissioner looking into this is Daniel Greenberg.
  • Eccles' spokesperson stated the delay was due to an administrative error.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

What’s the fallout from Trump’s new batch of tariffs?

What’s the fallout from Trump’s new batch of tariffs?

Summary

President Donald Trump has introduced new tariffs affecting over 60 countries, with some rates reaching 50%. These tariffs have caused global disruption and affected financial markets in the United States.

Key Facts

  • President Trump imposed tariffs on products from more than 60 countries.
  • Some tariffs are as high as 50%.
  • The tariffs have caused confusion and financial instability around the world.
  • The U.S. stock market experienced a downturn following the tariff announcement.
  • A recent U.S. jobs report showed slower than expected economic growth.
  • Trump reacted by firing the head of the U.S. Labor Statistics agency, claiming data manipulation.
  • Experts are questioning the long-term effects of these tariffs on the global economy.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Lebanon mourns beloved artist Ziad Rahbani

Summary

Lebanon is mourning the loss of Ziad Rahbani, a well-known artist. The announcement of his passing was reported by NPR.

Key Facts

  • Ziad Rahbani was a famous artist from Lebanon.
  • The announcement was made on August 2, 2025.
  • NPR reported on his passing.
  • He was a beloved figure in Lebanon.
  • The news was shared on platforms like Facebook and through email updates.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

From us

The news is free. Support if you want.

No ads. Pay what this is worth to you — most people choose $3.99/month.

Do conservatives have a role in challenging Trump's foreign policy?

Summary

NPR discusses whether conservative figures could influence former President Trump's decisions on foreign policy. The conversation features insights from Kori Schake of the American Enterprise Institute about the role conservatives can play.

Key Facts

  • The topic is about whether conservatives can challenge former President Trump's foreign policy.
  • NPR's segment includes an interview with Kori Schake from the American Enterprise Institute.
  • Kori Schake wrote an article titled "Dispensable Nation: America in a Post-American World."
  • The article appeared in Foreign Affairs, a publication focused on global politics.
  • The discussion is part of NPR's show "All Things Considered."
  • It considers how conservatives might impact America's global role.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

What's it like to cover your own network when its in the headlines?

Summary

The article discusses the challenges reporters face when they have to report news involving their own media organization. It highlights the complexities and ethical considerations involved in such reporting.

Key Facts

  • Reporters often cover stories involving their own media outlets.
  • This kind of reporting can be challenging due to potential conflicts of interest.
  • Journalists must balance transparency and objectivity while covering these stories.
  • News organizations have guidelines to manage such situations.
  • The article illustrates the role of ethics in journalism.
  • The focus is on maintaining credibility and trust with the audience.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Hamas denies it expressed willingness to disarm, slams Witkoff’s Gaza trip

Hamas denies it expressed willingness to disarm, slams Witkoff’s Gaza trip

Summary

Hamas has denied reports that it is willing to disarm as part of ceasefire talks with Israel. The group insists it has a right to keep its weapons while Israeli occupation continues. This response follows comments from a U.S. envoy about potential Hamas disarmament.

Key Facts

  • Hamas rejected claims that it agreed to disarm during ceasefire talks with Israel.
  • A U.S. envoy reportedly told families of Israeli captives that Hamas indicated willingness to be demilitarized.
  • Hamas asserts its right to keep weapons to resist Israeli control until a Palestinian state is created.
  • More than 1,300 Palestinians have died in recent months trying to get food at GHF distribution sites in Gaza.
  • The Trump administration supports GHF operations despite criticism and U.S. intent to disarm Hamas.
  • International efforts are underway to recognize a Palestinian state due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
  • The UK may recognize a Palestinian state if Israel does not implement a ceasefire.
  • A UN meeting resulted in support for a solution encouraging Hamas to hand weapons to the Palestinian Authority.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Palestinian boy, 17, dies of Israel-induced starvation in Gaza

Palestinian boy, 17, dies of Israel-induced starvation in Gaza

Summary

A 17-year-old Palestinian boy named Atef Abu Khater died in Gaza from severe starvation-related malnutrition. The death occurred amid a prolonged blockade by Israel, which limits the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The situation has led to many Palestinians experiencing severe food shortages and ongoing health crises.

Key Facts

  • Atef Abu Khater was 17 years old when he died in Gaza due to severe malnutrition.
  • His weight dropped from 70 kg (154 lbs) to 25 kg (55 lbs), which is typical for a child much younger than him.
  • At least seven Palestinians have died of malnutrition in Gaza in the past 24 hours.
  • The Gaza Health Ministry reports that 169 Palestinians, including 93 children, have died of starvation since the conflict began in October 2023.
  • The UN and humanitarian officials criticize Israeli restrictions on aid delivery, saying they cause severe food shortages.
  • Israel claims it is increasing aid deliveries, but humanitarian groups find the methods dangerous and inefficient.
  • The head of UNRWA accuses Israel of deliberately blocking lifesaving aid, describing it as collective punishment for Palestinians.
  • Ongoing food shortages in Gaza continue to severely affect the health and survival of many Palestinian families.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Former Venezuelan detainees speak out about abuse in El Salvador’s mega-prison

Former Venezuelan detainees speak out about abuse in El Salvador’s mega-prison

Summary

In July, 238 Venezuelan migrants were released from a well-known prison in El Salvador through a three-country agreement. Some of these migrants are now sharing stories about how they were mistreated while in custody.

Key Facts

  • 238 Venezuelan migrants were involved in the release.
  • The Trump administration sent these migrants to a prison in El Salvador.
  • The prison is described as a "mega-prison."
  • Some of the released people are now talking about the abuse they faced.
  • The abuse mentioned includes both physical and psychological harm.
  • Ali Rogin interviewed Melissa Sanchez from ProPublica for more details.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

"No piecemeal deals": Witkoff tells hostage families Trump wants full Gaza agreement

"No piecemeal deals": Witkoff tells hostage families Trump wants full Gaza agreement

Summary

President Trump wants to change the approach to negotiations in Gaza, aiming for a complete deal rather than phased agreements. This new plan seeks to end the war and secure the release of all hostages at once. The previous method focusing on incremental agreements did not succeed.

Key Facts

  • White House envoy Steve Witkoff spoke to families of hostages about a new negotiation plan in Gaza.
  • Trump prefers a comprehensive agreement that ends the war and releases all hostages simultaneously.
  • Past efforts to negotiate partial agreements did not successfully end the conflict or free all hostages.
  • Netanyahu’s previous strategy involved partial negotiations for domestic reasons.
  • A past negotiation in January successfully freed 33 hostages but failed to proceed further.
  • Witkoff and Netanyahu discussed moving towards a comprehensive deal to address the stalemate.
  • There is still no final decision on whether to shift completely to this new approach.
  • Some officials say that Hamas might still engage in partial negotiations.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

From us

Pay what you want

We're reader-funded instead of ad-funded. You decide what no-spin news is worth.

In Gaza, more Palestinians are killed while waiting for food aid

In Gaza, more Palestinians are killed while waiting for food aid

Summary

In Gaza, at least 325 people died over the past week while trying to get food during what was supposed to be a pause in attacks. The ongoing violence and lack of food aid have caused significant hardship for residents. International aid efforts are being hindered by restrictions and looting.

Key Facts

  • At least 325 people in Gaza have died recently while trying to get food, as stated by Gaza's Health Ministry.
  • Israeli forces are reported to have killed 24 people on a single Saturday in different parts of Gaza.
  • Despite a declared humanitarian pause, incidents of violence occurred during food aid distribution attempts.
  • Israel claims it only fired warning shots in some incidents but has received criticism for its handling of the situation.
  • Aid restrictions by Israel have been internationally condemned, with reports of famine conditions in Gaza.
  • Aid entering Gaza is often looted before it can be properly distributed.
  • U.S. officials visited Gaza to inspect food distribution efforts.
  • International groups describe the restrictions as collective punishment, impacting the delivery and safety of aid.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Dua Lipa granted Kosovo citizenship

Dua Lipa granted Kosovo citizenship

Summary

Pop singer Dua Lipa received Kosovo citizenship during a ceremony hosted by the country's president, Vjosa Osmani. Lipa was born in London to Kosovan-Albanian parents and has been involved in promoting Kosovo through her music and philanthropy. She also started the Sunny Hill Festival in Kosovo to improve the country's image.

Key Facts

  • Dua Lipa, a pop star, has been granted Kosovo citizenship.
  • The ceremony was hosted by Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani.
  • Lipa has Kosovan-Albanian parents and briefly lived in Pristina.
  • She is participating in the Sunny Hill Festival in Kosovo, which she helped start.
  • Lipa has a charity to support vulnerable communities in Kosovo.
  • UK Ambassador to Kosovo, Jonathan Hargreaves, attended the event.
  • She holds citizenship in Britain, Albania, and now Kosovo.
  • Lipa was named Honorary Ambassador of Kosovo in 2022.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Israeli gunfire kills more Gaza aid-seekers as U.S. envoy meets with hostages’ families

Israeli gunfire kills more Gaza aid-seekers as U.S. envoy meets with hostages’ families

Summary

At least 29 people were killed in Gaza when Israeli forces fired near aid distribution sites. The incidents happened as people searched for food in areas run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with insufficient aid reaching the population.

Key Facts

  • Israeli forces fired near two aid sites in Gaza, killing at least 29 people.
  • Witnesses say many were shot dead while trying to get food near the Zikim crossing.
  • Aid efforts face challenges, with months of supplies waiting for Israeli approval to enter Gaza.
  • The United Nations says 500 to 600 aid trucks are needed daily in Gaza.
  • Seven people in Gaza have died from malnutrition-related causes in the last 24 hours.
  • GHF sites, funded by U.S. support, aim to provide aid but experience issues with violence and safety.
  • Israel claims to fire warning shots to control crowds, and the military is working to secure aid routes.
  • Since May, 859 people have reportedly died near GHF sites due to violence.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Prominent Indian ex-MP gets life sentence for rape

Prominent Indian ex-MP gets life sentence for rape

Summary

An Indian court sentenced Prajwal Revanna, a former member of parliament from Karnataka, to life in prison for raping a domestic staff member. Revanna, part of a well-known political family, was found guilty following allegations that surfaced in 2023 with explicit videos. He plans to appeal the decision.

Key Facts

  • Prajwal Revanna is a former Indian MP from Karnataka.
  • He was sentenced to life in prison for raping a domestic worker.
  • The allegations came to light in 2023 through videos on social media.
  • Revanna denied the charges but was found guilty and sentenced.
  • He is the grandson of former Indian Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda.
  • Revanna left India in April 2024 using a diplomatic passport and was arrested in May after returning from Germany.
  • He faces additional charges of two more rape cases and one sexual harassment case.
  • Revanna has expressed intent to appeal the life sentence.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Pope Leo XIV thrills hundreds of thousands of young Catholics at Holy Year youth festival

Pope Leo XIV thrills hundreds of thousands of young Catholics at Holy Year youth festival

Summary

Hundreds of thousands of young Catholics gathered just outside of Rome for a special event during the Vatican's 2025 Holy Year. Pope Leo XIV participated in the activities, including an evening vigil and a morning Mass. The event is part of a larger pilgrimage involving millions visiting the Vatican throughout the Holy Year.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV participated in a major event for young Catholics near Rome as part of the 2025 Holy Year.
  • The event included an evening vigil, an outdoor slumber party, and a morning Mass.
  • This gathering is a key moment for younger generations of Catholics during the Holy Year.
  • Hundreds of thousands of young pilgrims set up camps and participated in activities like singing and praying.
  • The young Catholics traveled from around the world for this special celebration.
  • Pope Leo XIV arrived at the event by helicopter and toured the crowd in the popemobile.
  • Officials initially expected 500,000 participants, but the pope suggested numbers might reach 1 million.
  • An 18-year-old Egyptian woman who was part of the pilgrimage died, and Pope Leo extended his condolences.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

I may starve to death before I am able to graduate in Gaza

I may starve to death before I am able to graduate in Gaza

Summary

Many students in Gaza are unable to take the important tawjihi exams due to ongoing conflict and unsafe conditions. This situation affects their ability to continue their education and impacts their future opportunities. The Palestinian Ministry of Education has made efforts to hold the exams, but conditions have repeatedly halted their plans.

Key Facts

  • The tawjihi is a critical secondary education exam in Palestine that influences future education and career paths.
  • In Gaza, thousands of students have been unable to take the tawjihi for two years due to unsafe conditions.
  • Around 31,000 students born in 2006 and about 40,000 students born in 2007 are affected in Gaza.
  • The Ministry of Education has attempted to conduct the exams but postponed them several times because of the conflict.
  • Online exams went ahead for some students born in 2005, but many in Gaza are still waiting for their turn.
  • Gaza students face severe challenges, including schools turning into shelters and damage due to Israeli airstrikes.
  • Education initiatives have been attempted, with some university education continuing online in Gaza.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

From us

You're the one who keeps this going

No ads, no paywall. Pay what you want to keep it that way — suggested $3.99/month.

Murdered mum and children died in 'cruel and vicious manner', family say

Murdered mum and children died in 'cruel and vicious manner', family say

Summary

A mother and her two children were shot and killed in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Family and community members gathered in County Clare for their funeral, remembering them and expressing their deep loss. Attendees were encouraged to wear bright colors to honor the family's memory.

Key Facts

  • The victims were Vanessa Whyte, a 45-year-old veterinary surgeon, and her children James, 14, and Sara, 13.
  • The family was murdered by gunfire in Maguiresbridge, County Fermanagh.
  • Vanessa's sister, Regina Whyte, spoke about their loss at the funeral in County Clare.
  • Vanessa was remembered for her honesty and helpfulness in her career as a vet.
  • James was involved in sports, particularly hurling, and was remembered for his loyalty and kindness.
  • Sara loved animals and had a gentle and strong spirit, enjoying simple activities like baking and sports.
  • The local community in Barefield showed support and grief, with many attending the funeral.
  • Attendees wore bright and cheerful colors to celebrate the lives of Vanessa, James, and Sara.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Why is Trump moving nuclear submarines after spat with Medvedev?

Why is Trump moving nuclear submarines after spat with Medvedev?

Summary

Donald Trump has ordered the movement of two U.S. nuclear submarines to regions near Russia. This decision follows a tense exchange with Dmitry Medvedev after peace talks regarding the war in Ukraine stalled. Trump's action appears to be a response to provocative comments from Medvedev.

Key Facts

  • Donald Trump ordered two U.S. nuclear submarines to move to areas closer to Russia.
  • The move comes amid stalled peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.
  • Trump and Russian leader Dmitry Medvedev exchanged heated messages on social media.
  • Trump threatened to impose economic sanctions on Russia if no ceasefire is agreed by August 8.
  • Medvedev called Trump’s ultimatum a step towards war.
  • Trump did not specify whether the submarines were nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed.
  • Trump's move is seen as a rhetorical threat, with existing nuclear submarines already capable of striking Russia.
  • The action reflects Trump's frustration over the ongoing conflict and lack of progress in negotiations.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account