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Watch: What it was like inside Maduro's court hearing

Watch: What it was like inside Maduro's court hearing

July 22, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A court in New York has set the trial date for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, for June 1, 2027. Maduro faces charges including narco-terrorism and drug and weapons offenses, which he denies.

Key Facts

  • Nicolás Maduro is the president of Venezuela.
  • Maduro and his wife will stand trial starting June 1, 2027.
  • The trial is taking place in New York, USA.
  • Charges include narco-terrorism, drug trafficking, and weapons offenses.
  • Maduro denies all the charges against him.
  • The court hearing was recently held to discuss the trial.
  • The case is receiving international attention.
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BBC Top Stories BBC US
Indian police cracked down on 'cockroach' protesters. They went home and made memes about it

Indian police cracked down on 'cockroach' protesters. They went home and made memes about it

July 22, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Tens of thousands of young protesters in Delhi marched against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, demanding the resignation of the Education Minister over exam scandals. Police used tear gas and batons to break up the protest, but many demonstrators responded by posting videos and memes online that mixed humor with the serious moments of the event.

Key Facts

  • The protest in Delhi was led by the Cockroach Janta Party, a youth movement originally started over exam irregularities.
  • Protesters demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resign due to leaked exam papers and recruitment scandals.
  • Police fired tear gas and used batons to control the crowd, and some protesters and officers were injured.
  • Authorities temporarily suspended mobile internet near the protest to limit communication.
  • Despite the violence, many protesters recorded and shared videos showing both the tension and their humorous reactions.
  • Posting humorous content during protests reflects a new way young people combine daily life and political activism.
  • Experts say younger generations are used to mixing politics with online culture like memes and videos.
  • Protesters saw filming and making jokes as a way to cope with fear during the violent encounter.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
What we know about the US-Saudi nuclear deal

What we know about the US-Saudi nuclear deal

July 22, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The United States and Saudi Arabia are working on a deal related to nuclear energy. The agreement focuses on peaceful uses of nuclear technology and aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • The US and Saudi Arabia are negotiating a nuclear deal.
  • The deal involves peaceful nuclear energy, not weapons.
  • It is meant to improve cooperation and energy development.
  • This agreement comes amid concerns about nuclear security in the region.
  • President Donald Trump’s administration is involved in these talks.
  • Saudi Arabia is seeking to build nuclear power plants for energy needs.
  • The deal could affect relationships and security dynamics in the Middle East.
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BBC Top Stories
Rubio says US, China must ‘work through’ big differences at ASEAN meeting

Rubio says US, China must ‘work through’ big differences at ASEAN meeting

July 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a Southeast Asian meeting to discuss how to handle tensions between the US and China. They talked about managing their differences ahead of a planned meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, especially regarding disagreements over the South China Sea and other issues.

Key Facts

  • Rubio and Wang met at the ASEAN foreign ministers’ meeting in Manila.
  • They discussed managing differences between the US and China to ensure a positive visit by Xi Jinping to the US in September.
  • Tensions include disputes over the South China Sea and US-Iran conflict.
  • A recent confrontation at the Second Thomas Shoal injured a Philippine sailor.
  • The US is committed to defending the Philippines under a defense treaty.
  • China claims most of the South China Sea, which overlaps with other countries’ waters.
  • The US increased military funding to the Philippines to $100 million for 2026 and is improving coastal defenses.
  • Rubio said the US’s security and prosperity are closely linked with Southeast Asia’s future.
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Al Jazeera
Tropical Storm Bertha makes landfall on southern Louisiana with threatening winds

Tropical Storm Bertha makes landfall on southern Louisiana with threatening winds

July 22, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Tropical Storm Bertha reached southern Louisiana on Wednesday, bringing strong winds and prompting beach closures from the Florida Panhandle to Mississippi. The storm made landfall in St. Bernard Parish, near New Orleans, with winds around 45 miles per hour.

Key Facts

  • Tropical Storm Bertha moved into southern Louisiana on Wednesday.
  • The storm made landfall in St. Bernard Parish, about 40 miles east of New Orleans.
  • Maximum sustained winds at landfall were approximately 45 mph (72 kph).
  • Beaches from the Florida Panhandle to Mississippi were closed due to the storm.
  • Bertha’s strong winds extended far from the storm’s center.
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PBS NewsHour
A year after deadly jet crash at Bangladesh school, families demand answers

A year after deadly jet crash at Bangladesh school, families demand answers

July 22, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A Bangladesh Air Force jet crashed into Milestone School in Dhaka one year ago, killing 36 people, mostly children, and injuring over 160. Families and survivors are still seeking answers about the cause and safety measures, while the full investigation report has not been made public.

Key Facts

  • The crash occurred on 21 July 2025 near the Uttara neighborhood in Dhaka.
  • The jet was a training aircraft from the Bangladesh Air Force that crashed shortly after takeoff.
  • 36 people died, mostly schoolchildren; over 160 were injured.
  • The crash damaged Milestone School, which did not meet building safety codes and had only one door for up to 900 students.
  • The investigation found the pilot lacked adequate training and supervision; the jet had no mechanical defects.
  • More than 600 buildings near Dhaka's airport violated height restrictions, including schools and hospitals.
  • Families and survivors have protested, demanding government accountability and better support.
  • The full investigative committee report submitted last November remains unreleased to the public.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Blocked by censors, China's animal lovers take fight against abuse offline and overseas

Blocked by censors, China's animal lovers take fight against abuse offline and overseas

July 22, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Videos showing boys in China mistreating a stray dog and her puppies caused public anger online. Chinese authorities limited discussion about the incident to protect the boys, but animal rights supporters have continued their campaign both inside China and internationally, calling for laws against animal cruelty.

Key Facts

  • The incident involved four boys under age 14 harming three puppies with sticks and setting their mother dog on fire in Jieyang, Guangdong province.
  • Videos and images of the abuse sparked strong reactions on Chinese social media starting in June.
  • Chinese authorities blocked posts and urged the public to avoid spreading information to protect the boys and prevent cyberbullying.
  • The boys will not face criminal charges but were sent to a special school, according to officials.
  • China currently has no laws that criminalize animal cruelty.
  • Some posts and celebrity statements supporting animal protection were removed or limited on social media.
  • Animal rights activists have taken their campaign offline and overseas, including putting up billboards in New York.
  • Discussions about the incident and calls for stronger animal protection continue, despite censorship efforts.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Iranian missiles show deadly precision amid US-Iran war escalation

Iranian missiles show deadly precision amid US-Iran war escalation

July 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

An Iranian missile attack on a U.S. military site in Jordan killed three U.S. soldiers, marking the first U.S. deaths from Iranian strikes since the war between the U.S.-Israel coalition and Iran began five months ago. Despite ongoing U.S. air strikes, Iran’s missile and drone capabilities remain strong and continue to pose a threat to U.S. forces in the region.

Key Facts

  • Three U.S. soldiers were killed in an Iranian attack on a military site in Jordan.
  • This is the first time since March 1 that U.S. soldiers died due to Iranian strikes during the current war.
  • Iran uses advanced missiles and drones that can bypass U.S. air defense systems like Patriot and THAAD.
  • About 50,000 U.S. troops are stationed at bases in the Middle East that are vulnerable to Iranian attacks.
  • Many U.S. facilities are designed for protection against smaller attacks, not against precise ballistic missiles.
  • A total of 18 U.S. military deaths have been reported since the war started, including past Iranian strikes and other accidents.
  • Around 500 U.S. soldiers have been wounded and over 220 U.S. military buildings or equipment have been damaged or destroyed.
  • Experts say Iran’s military is adapting and becoming more precise, aided by possible Russian and Chinese intelligence support.
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Al Jazeera
US, Saudis sign nuclear partnership

US, Saudis sign nuclear partnership

July 22, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The Trump administration announced a peaceful nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia focused on economic benefits. Some experts and critics worry that the agreement may not have enough protections to stop Saudi Arabia from building nuclear weapons.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Saudi Arabia signed a nuclear partnership agreement.
  • The deal is described as promoting peaceful nuclear energy use.
  • The agreement is seen by the U.S. government as an economic success.
  • Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince participated in the announcement.
  • Critics and nuclear experts express concern about weak safeguards against weapon development.
  • The agreement aims to prevent nuclear weapons proliferation but faces skepticism.
  • The partnership focuses on cooperation in nuclear energy, not weaponry.
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The Hill
Iran warns of regional turmoil if US threats and attacks do not stop

Iran warns of regional turmoil if US threats and attacks do not stop

July 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States has conducted 12 nights of strikes on Iran to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten ships in nearby waters. Iran warned it will continue attacks across the Gulf region if its security is not protected, threatening that no infrastructure will be safe. Both sides have targeted civilian infrastructure, resulting in casualties and rising tensions.

Key Facts

  • The US Central Command said the strikes aim to reduce Iran’s threat to civilian and commercial ships in regional waters.
  • Iran has threatened to escalate attacks on Gulf region targets if US attacks and threats continue.
  • Iran’s chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned that without security guarantees, no infrastructure will be safe in the region.
  • US strikes have hit Iranian power plants and roads, causing civilian casualties; Iran reports 53 dead and 590 injured since late last month.
  • Iran has responded by attacking US allies Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, including water and power plants.
  • Three US service members were killed in an Iranian attack on a Jordanian air base; another US soldier died in Iraq from a drone incident.
  • Both sides have abandoned a recent interim peace deal amid the escalation.
  • President Trump said the US would attack one Iranian power plant or bridge each time Iran targets a ship in the Strait of Hormuz.
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Al Jazeera
Wounded Gaza journalists call for urgent medical evacuation

Wounded Gaza journalists call for urgent medical evacuation

July 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Palestinian journalists who are wounded or have long-term illnesses protested to ask for urgent medical help outside of Gaza. They said the healthcare system there is broken and cannot give them the treatment they need.

Key Facts

  • The protest was held by Palestinian journalists in Gaza.
  • The journalists are wounded or have chronic illnesses.
  • They are calling for urgent medical evacuation from Gaza.
  • The healthcare system in Gaza has collapsed.
  • They believe they cannot get proper treatment locally.
  • The situation highlights problems with medical care in Gaza.
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Al Jazeera
Who is Jimothy, the short-spined raccoon taking over social media (and maybe your TV)

Who is Jimothy, the short-spined raccoon taking over social media (and maybe your TV)

July 22, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The article introduces Jimothy, a short-spined raccoon that is becoming popular on social media and possibly television. It highlights Jimothy’s distinctive appearance and growing public interest.

Key Facts

  • Jimothy is a raccoon species with a notably short spine.
  • Jimothy has gained attention on social media platforms.
  • The raccoon may soon appear on television programs.
  • Its unique physical traits make it easy to recognize.
  • Public interest in Jimothy is increasing due to its unusual look.
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The Hill
What to know about Iran's Pickaxe Mountain, home to an underground nuclear site threatened by Trump

What to know about Iran's Pickaxe Mountain, home to an underground nuclear site threatened by Trump

July 22, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump has warned about bombing a new Iranian nuclear site buried underground at Pickaxe Mountain. This site is near Iran’s Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, which was previously attacked during a conflict in 2025.

Key Facts

  • Pickaxe Mountain is an underground nuclear site in Iran.
  • It is located near the Natanz nuclear enrichment site on Iran’s south side.
  • The Natanz site was attacked by the U.S. in 2025 during a 12-day war between Iran and Israel called Operation Midnight Hammer.
  • President Trump has repeatedly threatened to bomb the Pickaxe Mountain site.
  • Iran is still working on and digging at the Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site.
  • The threats and activities are part of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, especially in the Strait of Hormuz region.
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PBS NewsHour
Trump's Venezuela Moves Test the Limits of Regime Change

Trump's Venezuela Moves Test the Limits of Regime Change

July 22, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The Trump administration is handling two top Venezuelan leaders in different ways. President Nicolás Maduro and his wife face drug trafficking charges and a U.S. trial, while acting Venezuelan president Delcy Rodríguez is protected from a civil lawsuit under diplomatic immunity.

Key Facts

  • Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured in a U.S. raid in Caracas and are held in Brooklyn jail.
  • A trial for Maduro and Flores is set for June 1, 2027, on drug trafficking charges.
  • Delcy Rodríguez, recognized by the U.S. as Venezuela’s acting president, is immune from a $314 million civil lawsuit related to torture claims.
  • The U.S. Justice Department says Rodríguez can’t be sued in U.S. courts while in office.
  • President Trump favors protecting Rodríguez, citing interests like increased Venezuelan oil production and business opportunities.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio supports negotiations between the Venezuelan government and democratic opposition but faces resistance from the White House.
  • Opposition leader María Corina Machado, believed to have won the 2024 election, is discouraged by the U.S. administration from returning to Venezuela to avoid destabilizing current arrangements.
  • Critics say legal claims supporting Rodríguez’s role are weak and Venezuela has not yet held promised elections after Maduro’s capture.
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Newsweek
US and Saudi Arabia announce nuclear cooperation deal

US and Saudi Arabia announce nuclear cooperation deal

July 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement to share American nuclear technology with Saudi Arabia. The deal aims to strengthen their partnership and will be reviewed by the US Congress before moving forward.

Key Facts

  • The agreement is a 123 agreement under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, which governs nuclear cooperation.
  • The deal includes a bilateral safeguards agreement to ensure nuclear safety and nonproliferation.
  • It is described as a multi-billion-dollar, long-term partnership between the US and Saudi Arabia.
  • The agreement may allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium domestically, but details on this were not provided.
  • Enriched uranium can be used for both energy and nuclear weapons, raising potential concerns.
  • The deal supports US interests by creating jobs and reinforcing nuclear nonproliferation rules.
  • This cooperation comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran over Iran’s nuclear program.
  • The agreement must be approved by the US Congress before it can take effect.
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Al Jazeera
Trump and Iran trade threats to attack energy infrastructure as U.S. completes 11th night of strikes

Trump and Iran trade threats to attack energy infrastructure as U.S. completes 11th night of strikes

July 22, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump warned Iran that for every missile or drone attack on the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. would destroy one bridge or power plant in Iran. Iran responded by saying it would try to stop all oil shipments from the region if the U.S. strikes civilian targets. The U.S. has carried out 11 nights of air strikes related to this conflict.

Key Facts

  • President Trump made a public threat to attack Iranian infrastructure in response to attacks on the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil shipments.
  • Iran warned that if the U.S. hits civilian sites, it will try to block all oil exports from the region.
  • The U.S. has been conducting nightly air strikes for 11 consecutive nights.
  • The conflict involves missile and drone attacks and military responses between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Both sides have threatened attacks on vital energy and infrastructure targets.
  • The situation poses risks to global oil supply and security in the Middle East.
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CBS News
Trump threatens Iranian infrastructure over Strait of Hormuz attacks

Trump threatens Iranian infrastructure over Strait of Hormuz attacks

July 22, 2026 • France24

Summary

President Donald Trump warned that the US would destroy one Iranian bridge or power plant each time Iran attacks ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict between the US and Iran continues with strikes, missile alerts, and stalled negotiations, affecting global energy trade and raising fuel prices.

Key Facts

  • President Trump threatened to bomb one Iranian bridge or power plant for every attack on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran responded by saying it would use an "eye for an eye" approach and would defend itself strongly.
  • The US launched precision strikes on Iranian military targets, and Iran fired missiles near Israel and triggered alerts in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil and gas trade, with about 20% of the world's traded energy passing through it during peacetime.
  • Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen threatened to target Saudi shipping in the Red Sea, risking another important trade route.
  • Attacks have targeted civilian infrastructure such as power plants and water desalination plants, raising concerns under international law.
  • United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the attacks on civilian infrastructure "unacceptable."
  • The ongoing conflict has caused oil prices to rise sharply, from under $72 to over $93 a barrel recently.
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France24
Map Shows the Massive Union Pacific Big Boy's Train Route Through the U.S.

Map Shows the Massive Union Pacific Big Boy's Train Route Through the U.S.

July 22, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014, the largest operating steam locomotive in the world, is traveling across the United States as part of a 2026 coast-to-coast tour. The train is visiting multiple states for public events before ending its journey in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on July 29, celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

Key Facts

  • Big Boy No. 4014 was built in 1941 to carry heavy freight through western mountains during World War II.
  • It is about 133 feet long and weighs around 1.2 million pounds.
  • Only one of the original 25 Big Boy locomotives is still running, and No. 4014 was restored in 2019.
  • The 2026 tour marks Big Boy’s first trip to the East Coast and includes more than 50 stops in 10 states.
  • Thousands of train fans gather to see the locomotive, which has emotional significance for many people.
  • The tour celebrates the 150th anniversary of the transcontinental railroad and the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.
  • The final route will pass through Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming, with stops including Kansas City, Topeka, Denver, and Cheyenne.
  • The tour will finish on July 29, 2026, in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
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Newsweek
France recorded 5,700 more deaths than usual during its historic June heat wave

France recorded 5,700 more deaths than usual during its historic June heat wave

July 22, 2026 • France24

Summary

France experienced a severe heatwave in June that caused at least 5,700 additional deaths compared to normal numbers. This new figure is higher than previous estimates and shows the serious impact of the extreme temperatures.

Key Facts

  • The heatwave occurred in June and is described as historic or record-breaking.
  • France's public health agency reported the extra deaths on July 22, 2026.
  • The number of deaths exceeded the usual death rate by at least 5,700.
  • This death toll is higher than earlier estimates of the heatwave’s impact.
  • The heatwave is linked to rising temperatures and climate change concerns.
  • The report highlights the public health risks connected to extreme weather events.
  • The data was shared by France 24 news and includes video reporting.
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France24
US announces nuclear cooperation pact with Saudi Arabia

US announces nuclear cooperation pact with Saudi Arabia

July 22, 2026 • France24

Summary

The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to cooperate on civilian nuclear energy. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman finalized the deal along with an agreement on nuclear safeguards.

Key Facts

  • The agreement focuses on civilian nuclear cooperation between the US and Saudi Arabia.
  • U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright signed the pact.
  • Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed on behalf of Saudi Arabia.
  • A separate bilateral safeguards agreement was also signed to ensure nuclear materials are used peacefully.
  • The deal aims to support Saudi Arabia’s development of nuclear energy for civilian purposes.
  • This announcement was made on July 22, 2026.
  • The agreement is part of wider U.S. efforts in the Middle East related to energy and security.
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France24
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