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Israel carried out air strikes on Damascus, Syria's capital, claiming they were meant to protect the Druze minority. Syria condemned the attacks, calling them a dangerous move that worsens chaos. The air strikes killed three people and injured 34, according to Syrian officials.
Key Facts
Israel conducted air strikes on central Damascus, targeting the Ministry of Defence and areas near the presidential palace.
The strikes also hit the southern region of Syria, particularly affecting the city of Suwayda.
The violence in Suwayda involved clashes between Syrian government forces and Druze fighters.
More than 250 people have been killed in Suwayda province during the recent clashes, according to a monitoring group.
Israel claims its actions were intended to protect the Druze minority and were directed against pro-government forces.
Syrian authorities described the strikes as a "flagrant assault" and accused Israel of trying to create chaos.
The Druze community in Syria has mixed feelings about Israel's involvement, with leaders disagreeing on ceasefire terms.
Israel has previously conducted similar strikes in Syria and currently controls the Syrian Golan Heights.
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Japan has reported that a Chinese military aircraft entered its airspace, marking a first-time occurrence. This incident was highlighted in Japan's latest defense report, which also mentions increased Chinese military activities near disputed areas. China responded by accusing Japan of trying to create fear.
Key Facts
Japan accused China of expanding its military activities.
A Chinese military plane recently entered Japanese airspace for the first time.
This event is included in Japan's newest defense document.
The report warns of increased Chinese naval and air activities near disputed regions.
China accused Japan of creating alarm in response to these claims.
The incident has sparked discussions about future military tensions in East Asia.
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Police in India found a Russian woman, Nina Kutina, living with her two young daughters in a cave in Karnataka. Authorities say Kutina and her children lack the proper documents to stay in India, and they are set to be sent back to Russia.
Key Facts
Police found Nina Kutina and her two daughters in a cave during a routine patrol in Karnataka, India.
Kutina is 40 years old, and her daughters are six and five years old.
They have been placed in a detention center for foreigners and will be deported to Russia.
The family lacked valid documents to legally stay in India.
Kutina claimed in interviews that she and her children were happy living in the cave and preferred nature.
The area where they were found is known for snakes and wild animals, making it potentially dangerous.
Kutina has not lived in Russia for 15 years and has traveled to many countries.
The father of the children, Dror Goldstein, is reported to be an Israeli businessman currently in India.
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Israel plans to build a large shelter for Palestinians in Rafah, southern Gaza. This proposal has faced criticism from both inside and outside Israel. The shelter could initially hold about 600,000 Palestinians, with plans to expand it further.
Key Facts
Israel plans to create a large shelter for Palestinians in Rafah, southern Gaza.
The shelter is expected to initially accommodate around 600,000 displaced Palestinians.
The ultimate goal is to expand it to house the entire pre-war population of Gaza, which is about 2.2 million people.
The shelter would be managed by international forces and will not have a Hamas presence.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert called the plan a “concentration camp” and Israeli lawyers have labeled it illegal.
The plan has faced international criticism, with Britain, Austria, Germany, and the United Nations expressing strong concerns.
Some Israeli politicians and officials support the idea, while others have criticized it for being impractical and costly.
There are reports that Israel is increasing demolitions in Rafah, which might be linked to this plan.
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Israel launched air strikes on Syria, targeting areas in Damascus and Suwayda. Israel says the attacks aim to protect the Druze minority, while Syria views them as a destabilizing act. A new ceasefire has been agreed upon after recent intense fighting in Suwayda.
Key Facts
Israel conducted air strikes near Syria's presidential palace and military headquarters in Damascus.
Syrian state media reported at least three deaths and 34 injuries from the strikes in Damascus.
Ongoing clashes in Suwayda led to hundreds of deaths, involving Druze groups, Bedouin tribes, and government forces.
Syria's Foreign Ministry accuses Israel of trying to create instability and chaos.
Israel claims its actions are meant to protect the Druze community and has called for Syrian forces to leave Suwayda.
A ceasefire agreement was reached following clashes but rejected by some Druze leaders wanting full control of Suwayda.
The new ceasefire includes the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Suwayda and the setup of checkpoints.
The United States welcomed the ceasefire agreement, seeking a reduction in military presence to lower tensions.
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A Russian air raid hit a shopping center and market in Dobropillia, Ukraine, killing two people and injuring 22 others. The attack used a large bomb and caused major damage to nearby buildings and cars. The raid is part of ongoing tensions, as Russia and Ukraine continue to navigate a conflict without an active peace agreement.
Key Facts
A Russian air raid hit Dobropillia in eastern Ukraine, targeting a shopping center and market.
At least two people were killed and 22 were injured in the attack.
A 500kg (1,100-pound) bomb was used, causing significant destruction to eight apartment buildings and eight cars.
Video from the area showed fires and heavy smoke around the shopping center.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy described the attack as a terror act with no military goal.
The attack happened amid ongoing Russian drone and missile strikes in multiple Ukrainian regions.
Tensions continue as the US urges Russia to agree to a peace deal or face new sanctions.
Previous peace talks between Russia and Ukraine have achieved limited progress, mostly resulting in prisoner exchanges.
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Israeli airstrikes hit areas in Syria, including the defense ministry in Damascus, amid ongoing sectarian clashes. The U.S. announced specific steps to resolve the violence in the southern Suweida region, where more than 300 people have been killed. Syrian troops began withdrawing as part of an agreement to address the conflict.
Key Facts
Israel conducted airstrikes on the Syrian defense ministry in Damascus and other targets.
Clashes in Suweida, a province with a significant Druze population, have resulted in over 300 deaths.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that there is an agreement to end the violence in Suweida.
Syrian troops started withdrawing from Suweida after reaching an agreement with local leaders.
The Israeli military and Syrian forces exchanged hostilities following sectarian unrest.
Druze concerns have increased due to repeated violence over the past eight months.
Israel's Prime Minister and Defense Minister expressed a commitment to protecting Druze communities.
The Syrian foreign ministry accused Israel of attacking government and civilian sites, resulting in civilian casualties.
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A Russian air strike hit a shopping center and market in Dobropillia, Ukraine, killing at least two people and injuring 27 others. The attack caused significant damage to shops, apartments, and cars, and comes amid increased air strikes across Ukraine as peace talks remain stalled.
Key Facts
A Russian air strike targeted a shopping center and market in Dobropillia, Ukraine.
The attack killed at least two people and injured 27 others.
More than 50 shops, 300 apartments, and eight cars were damaged in the attack.
The strike occurred at 17:20 local time (14:20 GMT) when the area was busy.
Dobropillia is located 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the frontline of the conflict.
Russia has increased drone and missile attacks in Ukraine recently.
The United Nations reported over 230 civilian deaths in Ukraine in June due to these attacks.
Former US President Donald Trump expressed frustration over failed peace efforts, warning of further sanctions against Russia.
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Germany plans to tighten its laws by the end of the year to make it illegal to facilitate smuggling migrants to the UK. This move comes with a new UK-Germany agreement on migration, business, and defense during German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to the UK. The agreement aims to tackle the issue of people crossing the Channel in small boats and enhance UK-Germany cooperation in business and defense.
Key Facts
Germany will change its laws to make it illegal to help smuggle people into the UK.
This legal change will help German authorities stop smugglers using warehouses to hide boats for Channel crossings.
The UK and Germany will sign an agreement covering migration, business, and defense.
A BBC investigation found Germany is involved in storing boats and engines used for Channel crossings.
The UK recently made a deal with France to return some migrants who arrive in small boats.
Over 21,000 people have crossed the Channel in small boats so far this year, up 56% from last year.
A new UK-Germany Business Forum will encourage investment between the two countries, creating more than 600 jobs.
Defense cooperation will involve joint exports of military equipment like Boxer vehicles and Typhoon jets.
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On Wednesday, Israel carried out increased airstrikes on Syria, targeting locations like the presidential palace and the defense ministry in Damascus. The attacks resulted in three deaths and 34 injuries, according to Syria's health ministry. Israel stated the strikes aimed to protect Syria's Druze community.
Key Facts
Israel launched airstrikes on Syria, including near the presidential palace and the defense ministry in Damascus.
The defense ministry building in Damascus was significantly damaged.
The airstrikes on Damascus resulted in three deaths and 34 injuries as reported by Syria's health ministry.
Some of the attacks were filmed by news crews as they happened.
Israel claimed the strikes were to protect the Druze community in Syria.
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A German defense technology company called STARK will build drones in the UK for the first time. This new factory in Swindon, Wiltshire, will create over 100 skilled jobs and add to Europe's defense manufacturing capabilities.
Key Facts
STARK is a German company that produces drones, which are unmanned flying machines often used in military settings.
The company plans to open a new 3,700 square meters (40,000 square feet) factory in Swindon, UK.
This will be STARK's first factory outside of Germany.
The project is expected to create more than 100 skilled jobs in the UK.
STARK produces a drone called 'Virtus' with a range of up to 100km (62 miles) and a 5kg weapons capacity.
The factory aims to benefit from the UK's expertise in technology and defense.
The UK and Germany are strengthening their defense cooperation through agreements like the Trinity House Agreement of 2024.
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United States President Donald Trump mentioned that China might begin sentencing people to death for making or selling fentanyl, a drug linked to an overdose crisis in the US. He spoke about this while signing new anti-drug laws and linked it to the trade tariffs he imposed on some countries.
Key Facts
President Trump suggested China may start giving the death penalty to those involved in fentanyl production or distribution.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid related to a significant overdose crisis in the United States.
Trump discussed China in connection to signed anti-drug laws and trade tariffs.
China has historically used severe penalties, including the death penalty, for drug crimes.
In the past, China executed four Canadian citizens for drug offenses, causing international outrage.
There is debate about whether harsh penalties will reduce fentanyl use, with China attributing much of the demand to the US.
Fentanyl originally linked to overprescription of painkillers, but now mostly involves synthetic opioids.
US overdose deaths related to opioids have recently decreased, dropping by 12% in a year.
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A group of about 24 countries met in Bogota, Colombia, to discuss measures against Israel, aiming to hold it accountable for actions in Gaza. These countries decided on six actions, such as stopping arms going to Israel and allowing international prosecution of serious crimes. The meeting, organized by The Hague Group, looked to pressure Israel to end its occupation of Palestinian territories.
Key Facts
The meeting took place in Bogota, Colombia, and lasted two days.
Around 24 countries agreed on six measures to address Israel's actions in Gaza.
The measures include stopping arms transfers to Israel and banning ships carrying such arms.
They plan to review public contracts for links to companies benefiting from the Israeli occupation.
The Hague Group organized the summit, involving countries from the "Global South."
These countries represent fewer than half of the 30 present at the summit.
The group set a deadline of September 20 for more countries to join their efforts.
Since October 2023, at least 58,573 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict.
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An international effort has taken down a pro-Russian cybercrime group called NoName057(16), which was involved in thousands of attacks on Ukraine and European countries. Law enforcement from 19 nations dismantled the group's computer systems and infrastructure, making several arrests and seizures.
Key Facts
The cybercrime group NoName057(16) has been active since 2022, initially targeting Ukraine and later expanding to countries in Europe.
Law enforcement from 19 countries, including the US and several European nations, participated in taking down the group.
The operation disrupted over 100 computer systems used by the group worldwide.
The group attacked 250 German companies, Swedish authorities, and a NATO meeting in the Netherlands, among others.
They recruited over 4,000 volunteers via the Telegram app for cyberattacks.
German prosecutors issued arrest warrants for six suspects in Russia, believed to be group leaders.
Arrests and seizures were made in France and Spain; no formal charges have been filed yet.
The group used cryptocurrency and gaming-like rewards to motivate members.
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The Al-Jaleel Society for Care and Community-based Rehabilitation, serving disabled Palestinians in Jenin refugee camp, is facing demolition after repeated attacks by the Israeli military. The area is marked as a demolition zone by Israel, but Al-Jaleel's staff have received no official notice and cannot access the building to retrieve equipment.
Key Facts
Al-Jaleel Society offers services to disabled Palestinians in Jenin refugee camp.
The organization has been operating since 1991 and became independent in 2010.
Al-Jaleel provides prosthetics, therapies, and psychological support.
The center has been damaged repeatedly by Israeli military actions.
The area around the center is designated a demolition zone by Israel for military reasons.
Staff have not been officially notified but saw aerial maps showing the center in a demolition area.
The building was damaged in April, and staff were blocked from retrieving equipment.
Violence has significantly increased in Jenin since January 21 with an Israeli military operation called “Operation Iron Wall.”
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Canada plans to introduce a tariff rate quota on countries it has free trade deals with, except the United States, to protect its steel industry. This includes new tariffs on steel imports from some countries and prioritizing domestic steel companies in government projects. The Canadian government aims to help the local steel industry stay competitive.
Key Facts
Canada will set a tariff rate quota for countries it has free trade agreements with, excluding the United States.
A 50% tariff will apply to imports exceeding 2024 volumes for these countries.
Steel imports from all countries with steel made in China will get an extra 25% tariff before the end of July.
Canada is responding to domestic industry complaints about increased steel imports making the local industry uncompetitive.
A fund of one billion Canadian dollars is created to support steel companies in Canada.
For countries without free trade agreements, the tariff-free quota is reduced to 50% of 2024 volumes, with a 50% tariff on imports above that.
Canadian steel companies will be prioritized in government spending on projects.
Canadian steel maker Evraz has filed a complaint against unfairly priced steel imports from Mexico, the Philippines, South Korea, Turkey, and the US.
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Clashes between supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and security forces in Gopalganj, Bangladesh, led to at least three deaths and numerous injuries. The violence erupted during a National Citizens Party rally, a new political group formed by students who were part of the movement that ousted Hasina last year. An overnight curfew was imposed, and the country's interim leader condemned the disruption as a violation of fundamental rights.
Key Facts
At least three people died in clashes in Gopalganj, Bangladesh during a political rally.
The violence involved supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the National Citizens Party (NCP).
The NCP consists of students who were part of the movement that removed Hasina from power last year.
The rally was part of the NCP’s "March to Rebuild the Nation" program across the country.
Local media reported a possible fourth death, but this was not confirmed by the hospital.
An overnight curfew was put in place in the district following the incident.
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus criticized the disruption as a violation of rights and promised consequences.
Sheikh Hasina fled to India after her removal and faces several charges, including a recent six-month sentence for contempt of court.
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Canada plans to limit steel imports to protect its local steel industry from additional tariffs imposed by the US. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced measures to reduce reliance on the US, including stricter import quotas and increased use of Canadian steel for major projects.
Key Facts
Canada will limit tariff-free steel imports to support local manufacturers affected by US tariffs.
The US tariff on Canadian steel increased from 25% to 50% this year.
Canada aims to lower import reliance since nearly two-thirds of its steel consumption comes from imports.
Canadian steel exports heavily depend on the US market, making up over 90% of exports.
New import quotas will limit steel imports to 50% of 2024's volume for countries without trade deals with Canada.
Steel imports exceeding the quota will face a 50% tariff.
Additional tariffs target steel from non-US countries made using Chinese-origin steel.
Canadian federal projects, such as housing and defense, will prioritize using Canadian steel.
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Lesotho, a small country in Southern Africa, has declared a two-year state of disaster. The country faces high tariff threats from the United States, which could have significant economic impacts.
Key Facts
Lesotho is located in Southern Africa and is a smaller country.
The U.S. threatened to impose the highest tariffs on goods from Lesotho.
Tariffs are taxes placed on imports or exports.
A "state of disaster" is an official declaration that helps a country deal with emergencies.
The state of disaster in Lesotho is set to last for two years.
The potential tariffs could affect Lesotho's economy significantly.
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Violence in southern Syria between Druze and Bedouin communities led to Israeli airstrikes in Damascus and other areas. The strikes aimed to protect the Druze community, according to Israeli officials, but some local activists argue the attacks worsen the conflict. The recent unrest began after the kidnapping of a Druze trader, which escalated tensions between the two groups and involved Syrian government forces.
Key Facts
Fighting between Druze and Bedouin communities occurred in southern Syria.
Israel bombed Syria’s Ministry of Defence and other sites in Damascus, killing three people.
Israeli airstrikes also targeted Suwayda and Deraa provinces.
Local activists claim Israeli attacks increase disputes in Suwayda.
The unrest started after a Druze trader was kidnapped by Bedouin armed groups.
The Druze community initially accepted the presence of Syrian government forces.
Recent events have strained trust in Syria’s new government, led by the Sunni majority.
Israeli officials say their attacks aim to defend Druze people in Suwayda.
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