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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events
Heavy floods in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, have killed at least 20 people and left over 100 missing. Locals are searching through mud and debris to find survivors.
Key Facts
Flooding occurred in Nuristan province, Afghanistan.
At least 20 people have died due to the floods.
More than 100 people are missing after the flood.
Residents are actively searching for survivors.
The floodwaters caused mud and rubble to cover the area.
The event has severely impacted the local community.
Officials have reported these numbers.
Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing.
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An Israeli air strike hit an apartment building in Gaza City’s Sabra neighborhood, causing a fire that killed five people, including three children. This attack took place despite a ceasefire agreement made in October 2025.
Key Facts
An Israeli air attack targeted an apartment in Gaza City’s Sabra neighborhood.
The attack caused the building to catch fire.
Five people died in the fire, including three children.
The bombing happened nearly every day despite a ceasefire agreement.
The ceasefire was agreed upon in October 2025.
This attack is seen as breaking the ceasefire terms.
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New Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced that the government will remove VAT (a type of sales tax) from electricity bills starting in October, cutting the average bill by £45 a year. This move aims to help families manage high living costs and will be funded by canceling a digital ID project, although some officials have questioned how the cut will be fully paid for.
Key Facts
The VAT cut on electricity bills will begin in October and save the average household £45 annually.
This is one of Burnham’s first actions as prime minister to ease the cost of living pressures for UK households.
The government plans to fund this tax cut by scrapping a digital ID scheme, expected to save £1.8 billion over three years.
Some officials, including Darren Jones, have questioned the funding, saying the digital ID scheme did not have confirmed funding.
Chancellor John Healey said the tax cut will help families with bills and provide reassurance during winter.
Burnham aims to further reduce living costs with future measures, possibly including lower bus fares and rent freezes.
Northern Ireland will not see the VAT cut due to EU tax rules, but will receive equivalent financial support from the UK government.
The VAT cut may encourage people to switch from gas boilers to electric heat pumps by reducing the price gap between gas and electricity.
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China and the Philippines each summoned the other's ambassador after a clash between their sailors at a disputed area in the South China Sea. The incident involved accusations of aggression by both sides and drew condemnation from allies of the Philippines, including the United States and Australia.
Key Facts
Chinese and Philippine sailors clashed near the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed area in the South China Sea.
The Philippines accused the China Coast Guard of attacking a Filipino sailor with a baton.
China said Philippine boats rammed a Chinese patrol vessel and claimed the Philippine side started the confrontation.
China allowed injured Philippine personnel to be transferred from a grounded Philippine warship for humanitarian reasons.
Both countries summoned each other’s ambassadors to protest the incident.
The South China Sea is a vital global trade route claimed largely by China despite an international court ruling against its claim.
The United States and Australia condemned China’s actions as destabilizing and dangerous.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Manila for an ASEAN summit and expressed support for freedom of navigation in Southeast Asia.
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Two tourists, both Greek Americans, were stabbed near the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece. The woman had minor leg injuries, and the man was more seriously hurt; the attacker was caught and taken by police.
Key Facts
The attack happened near the entrance of the Acropolis Museum in Athens.
The victims were a man and a woman, both Greek American tourists.
The woman had light injuries to her leg, and the man had more serious wounds to his arm.
The attacker was arrested by police.
Authorities said the attacker seemed to have psychological problems.
Violent street attacks are rare in Greece.
The Acropolis is a major tourist site with about 4.6 million visitors last year.
In a separate incident in April, an 89-year-old man fired a shotgun in central Athens, wounding four people.
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Ed Miliband, now UK Foreign Secretary, was previously the Energy Secretary, where he led efforts to rapidly expand clean energy in the UK. While some politicians and media criticized him, he pushed for a goal to decarbonize power by 2030 and made major progress on renewables. There is debate about new fossil fuel drilling plans that Miliband opposes but could be allowed by the Prime Minister.
Key Facts
Ed Miliband served as the UK Energy Secretary under Prime Minister Keir Starmer until July 2024.
He prioritized decarbonizing the UK’s power sector by 2030 through renewable energy investments.
Miliband’s department made fast progress on wind farms, solar projects, and grid reforms.
Some rightwing media and politicians criticized him for being too focused on climate goals.
The fossil fuel industry and some political groups lobby for new North Sea oil and gas drilling at Jackdaw and Rosebank fields.
Miliband opposes these drilling projects, calling Rosebank “climate vandalism.”
Approving new drilling may not break the party manifesto rule against "new licences" but uses a loophole for existing proposals.
Miliband moved to the Foreign Office to continue advocating for global climate action.
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A man stabbed two tourists near the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. The victims, a man and a woman who are Greek Americans, were taken to the hospital, and the attacker was detained.
Key Facts
The attack happened near the entrance of the Acropolis Museum in Athens.
The victims are a Greek American man and woman.
The woman suffered light leg injuries; the man was more seriously hurt in the arm.
The attacker, who may have psychological problems, was arrested by police.
Such attacks are very rare in Greece.
The Acropolis is a famous historical site that attracts millions of visitors every year.
Last year, about 4.6 million people visited the Acropolis area in Athens.
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A document from 2013 shows that Israel collected information on over 150 humanitarian charities, noting some that were critical of Israel or involved in the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. The file included details such as organization contacts and comments labeling some groups as anti-Israel or part of BDS. Israeli and international experts say this document reveals Israel's monitoring of NGOs during a time when BDS was gaining strength.
Key Facts
The document is a spreadsheet from 2013 listing more than 150 charities, with names, contacts, and areas of work.
Fifteen organizations had comments like “critic of Israel” or “involved in anti-Israel campaigning.”
Some groups were described as highly involved in BDS, a movement that calls for boycotting Israel to protest its policies.
The list included well-known charities like Oxfam, which denied supporting BDS or anti-Israel actions.
The document was found on an Israeli government ministry’s website and no official comment was given.
NGO Monitor, an Israel-based group, was cited as a source for many comments; it is known for tracking organizations critical of Israel.
The file dates to when BDS was growing globally, including actions like boycotts by Stephen Hawking and church groups.
Experts say the list may have helped Israel create laws in later years banning supporters of BDS from entering the country.
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Joshua Kerry, 28, is charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former UK politician found seriously injured at her home. The investigation is led by UK counter-terrorism police, who are examining Kerry’s motives and any possible wider activities.
Key Facts
Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe.
Widdecombe, 78, was found seriously injured at her home in Haytor, Devon, on July 9.
Kerry was arrested on suspicion of murder and later re-arrested for possible terrorism-related acts.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing South East leads the investigation with support from Devon and Cornwall Police.
More than 800 lines of enquiry have been opened in the case.
Prosecutors say there is enough evidence to take Kerry to court and stress the right to a fair trial.
Ann Widdecombe was a Conservative MP, former minister, and later a Reform UK spokeswoman.
Leaders from different UK political parties have expressed their condolences.
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Khalil al-Hayya was elected as the new leader of Hamas in Gaza, replacing former leader Khaled Meshaal. However, many people in Gaza are more focused on their daily survival amid ongoing war and shortages of basic needs than on political changes.
Key Facts
Khalil al-Hayya won an internal Hamas election against Khaled Meshaal this week.
Gaza is heavily damaged by war that began on October 7, 2023, with an Israeli siege causing shortages of food, water, and other essentials.
Residents like Noman Saleh and Ali Abu Amshi emphasize their desire for basic needs and peace over political leadership changes.
Ali Abu Amshi lost 22 family members and was displaced during the conflict.
Hamas’s election of al-Hayya signals a continuation of its current political and military approach.
Hamas sees al-Hayya as a key figure connected to the events of October 7, 2023.
Political changes are happening amid wider preparations for possible Palestinian legislative elections.
Many Palestinians hope for improved living conditions more than for leadership changes during the crisis.
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Nineteen people in Indonesia were found guilty of trafficking at least 34 babies. Investigators revealed that 20 of the babies were meant to be sent to Singapore, with at least 12 confirmed to have arrived there. The court did not decide what will happen to the babies now.
Key Facts
Nineteen individuals were convicted for a baby trafficking ring in Indonesia.
At least 34 babies were trafficked through this ring.
Investigators say 20 of the babies were sent to Singapore.
At least 12 babies reached Singapore.
The court case did not resolve the future care or custody of the babies.
The situation raises questions about protection and support for these children.
The issue involves both Indonesia and Singapore.
Human trafficking is the broader crime involved in this case.
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People in Gaza celebrated Spain’s win in the World Cup because Spain supports Palestinian rights. Many gathered in cafes to watch and cheer for Spain despite challenges like power outages and the risk of Israeli attacks.
Key Facts
Palestinians in Gaza cheered Spain’s World Cup victory in public places like cafes.
Spain is seen by many Palestinians as a country that supports their rights and cause.
A young Spanish player, Lamine Yamal, showed support for Palestine by raising a Palestinian flag during celebrations.
The Spanish prime minister defended Yamal after Israel’s defense minister criticized him.
Israel showed support for Argentina, led by Prime Minister Netanyahu who has ties with Argentina’s president.
Many Palestinians in Gaza live in difficult conditions, with limited electricity and internet due to ongoing conflict.
Some Palestinians risked attending public screenings despite dangers from Israeli airstrikes.
An aid worker who helped organize World Cup match viewings was killed in an Israeli bombing.
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The president of the Australian Association of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Descendants, George Foster, said there are worrying similarities between rising antisemitism in Australia and the atmosphere in Nazi Germany, though Australia’s institutions differ. The antisemitism royal commission heard about a rise in attacks on Jewish schools, synagogues, and businesses since October 2023, including violent incidents and protests using antisemitic language.
Key Facts
George Foster said Australia is not becoming like 1930s Germany but noted “disturbing parallels” in social attitudes against Jews.
There has been an increase in antisemitic incidents in Australia since October 2023.
A protest near Sydney Opera House used offensive antisemitic chants like “Where’s the Jews?” and “Fuck the Jews.”
Jewish community sites, including synagogues and schools, have faced attacks such as arson and vandalism.
An arson attack on the Adass Israel synagogue in December 2024 was allegedly directed by the Iranian government, according to ASIO (Australia’s security intelligence agency).
Security costs for Jewish schools in Melbourne have increased, and some schools now charge extra security fees to parents.
The royal commission is examining security measures for the Jewish community and the government’s response to antisemitism.
Some Jewish Australians have left the country to live in Israel due to safety concerns.
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A small monkey was found abandoned inside a laundry bag on a London bus. Animal officers rescued it and named it Oyster, and the monkey is now safe in a sanctuary.
Key Facts
A marmoset monkey was found inside a small cage wrapped in a plastic laundry bag on a bus in north-west London.
The monkey was discovered by the bus driver after it blocked a passenger from moving with a buggy.
The monkey was stressed and dehydrated but had a piece of apple in the cage.
The RSPCA believes the abandonment was intentional and linked to new rules requiring primate pet owners to have licenses.
The monkey was checked by a vet and then moved to a sanctuary where it will meet a male companion.
The RSPCA asks people who cannot care for animals or get a license to contact vets or charities instead of abandoning pets.
Officials are reviewing CCTV footage to try to find the person who left the monkey on the bus.
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Andy Burnham has become the new UK prime minister and began his leadership by focusing on ending homelessness. His government has kept many details secret so far, leading to speculation about his team and plans during the summer parliamentary break.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is now the prime minister of the United Kingdom.
He announced his first order as prime minister: to stop rough sleeping (homelessness).
His government has been very quiet about cabinet appointments and policies, creating uncertainty.
Parliament is on a summer break, so usual questioning and committee work are paused until September.
Key people aware of Burnham’s plans are his chief of staff James Purnell and advisor Louise Haigh.
Reporters and some politicians are concerned about lack of information and scrutiny.
Burnham has chosen to engage with the public mainly through online Q&A sessions and social media.
His re-election to the Commons was followed by mixed reactions from other members of parliament.
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Northern Ireland's deputy first minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, expressed shock after former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson was convicted of 18 counts of historical sex abuse, including one count of rape. The DUP has launched an independent review to understand what was known about Donaldson’s actions during his time in the party.
Key Facts
Jeffrey Donaldson was found guilty of 18 counts of sex abuse, including one rape, committed against two women when they were children.
Emma Little-Pengelly said people who worked with Donaldson were shocked and repulsed by his crimes.
Donaldson plans to appeal his conviction.
A BBC investigation revealed a double life led by Donaldson, with some describing his behavior as hypocritical.
Little-Pengelly said no one warned her or others that Donaldson was a predator during the 20 years she worked with him.
The DUP has set up an independent review to clarify who might have known about Donaldson’s behavior.
Little-Pengelly said she never saw signs of problematic drinking or sexual misconduct from Donaldson personally.
The current DUP leader, Gavin Robinson, ordered the independent review following the conviction.
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Andy Burnham has become the new UK Prime Minister and appointed his cabinet, including John Healey as chancellor. There was a significant change in ministers loyal to the previous leader, Keir Starmer. Burnham and Healey plan ambitious policies like increasing council house building and reforming social care, but they need to figure out how to pay for them.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is the new UK Prime Minister.
John Healey was named chancellor, replacing widely discussed candidates Shabana Mahmood and Ed Miliband.
Many ministers close to former Prime Minister Keir Starmer were removed or declined posts.
Healey previously worked in the Treasury from 2002 to 2007.
Both Burnham and Healey support economic ideas focused on industry growth and local government power.
Healey criticized past Treasury views, especially on defense spending targets.
Burnham promised quick announcements to help with the cost of living and said funding plans would be shared soon.
The government faces the challenge of managing spending on major programs like housing and social care.
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Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it attacked US-related sites in Bahrain and a US military base in Jordan amid ongoing tensions. Yemen’s Houthi forces declared a blockade of Saudi shipping in the Red Sea, escalating regional conflict. The US responded with airstrikes targeting Iranian military sites to reduce threats to shipping in the strait of Hormuz.
Key Facts
Iran claimed it attacked infrastructure linked to US company Amazon in Bahrain, though Bahrain did not confirm this.
Iran launched missiles at a US military base in Jordan; Jordan said the missiles were intercepted.
Two US soldiers were killed in an Iranian strike on a Jordanian airbase last Friday.
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis announced a blockade of Saudi Arabian shipping in the Red Sea’s Bab al-Mandeb strait.
The Bab al-Mandeb strait is crucial, with about 12% of world trade passing through it.
Saudi Arabia vowed to protect its ships legally in response to the blockade.
The US carried out 10 consecutive nights of airstrikes on Iranian targets, aiming to limit attacks on commercial shipping in Hormuz.
President Donald Trump warned Iran it would face heavy consequences for killing US soldiers.
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The number of children born through surrogacy in the UK and abroad has doubled from 2015 to 2025, with many parents seeking surrogacy overseas due to strict UK laws. Experts and a Law Commission review say the UK’s surrogacy laws are outdated and cause delays and stress, and they recommend legal reforms and better regulation.
Key Facts
Nearly 1,000 children were born via surrogacy in 2025, twice the number from 2015.
Most surrogacy births involve gay couples, infertility issues, and changing social attitudes.
In the UK, surrogates can only be paid for expenses, so many parents go abroad to countries like the US, Ukraine, and Mexico where surrogacy is paid.
Current UK law lists the surrogate mother on the birth certificate, and intended parents must apply for a parental order after birth to become legal parents.
The Law Commission recommends giving legal parenthood to intended parents from birth and better oversight of surrogacy agencies, but the government has not prioritized changing the law.
Problems include delays, legal confusion, and potential risks when surrogacy happens overseas.
Some experts and international voices criticize paid surrogacy as exploitative, especially for women in poorer countries.
Surrogacy agencies in the UK report high demand but face limits due to current laws.
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The Ripon Workhouse Museum in Britain has reopened after £2.8 million in repairs and updates. The museum offers visitors an interactive way to learn about life in a Victorian workhouse, showing the harsh conditions faced by poor and homeless people at that time.
Key Facts
The museum reopened with improved facilities following major repairs including fixing a leaking roof and rotting windows.
Visitors can experience activities like sweeping the yard, sewing, and hearing about historic workhouse rules.
Volunteers act as various Victorian roles such as schoolmaster or baker to create an immersive experience.
The workhouse housed poor and homeless people, who had to follow strict and unpleasant rules.
Visitors can see areas like the cellar where food was stored and preserved, often untouched since the 1930s.
The museum aims to show how Victorian workhouses were a solution for poverty, making conditions tough to discourage relying on aid.
The reasons people became homeless in Victorian times, such as mental health issues or family breakdown, are similar to today.
The museum opened as a historical site in 2017 and is supported by the National Lottery heritage fund.
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