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Another blockade of Iran is doomed to fail

Another blockade of Iran is doomed to fail

Summary

The article questions the effectiveness of imposing another blockade on Iran. It suggests that people supporting the blockade should explain why it would work this time.

Key Facts

  • The article discusses the idea of blockading Iran.
  • It highlights doubts about the success of such a blockade.
  • The author asks for reasons why a new blockade would succeed now.
  • The message implies past attempts may not have worked well.
  • The focus is on international actions involving Iran.
  • No specific plans or details about the blockade are given.
  • The article emphasizes the need for clear reasons before trying again.
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Tributes and tears as Starmer takes final Prime Minister's Questions

Tributes and tears as Starmer takes final Prime Minister's Questions

Summary

Sir Keir Starmer spoke at his final Prime Minister's Questions session before stepping down as UK Prime Minister. MPs from all parties paid tribute to him, and he will hand over power to Andy Burnham after the Labour leadership conference.

Key Facts

  • Sir Keir Starmer described his last Prime Minister’s Questions as the end of his political journey.
  • MPs from different parties paused usual arguments to honor him during the 50-minute session.
  • Some Labour MPs, including Chancellor Rachel Reeves, were visibly emotional.
  • Andy Burnham will become Labour leader after a special party conference on Friday.
  • Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch praised Starmer’s work on Ukraine but criticized future Labour leadership.
  • Starmer was thanked for his kindness after personal family tragedies.
  • The session included lighter moments, such as jokes about England’s World Cup chances.
  • Starmer paid tribute to former MP Ann Widdecombe and mentioned that three MPs had died during his time in Parliament.
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Trump: Texas, Alaska could be ‘alternatives’ to Strait of Hormuz

Trump: Texas, Alaska could be ‘alternatives’ to Strait of Hormuz

Summary

President Donald Trump said that pipelines in Texas and Alaska might be used instead of the Strait of Hormuz for shipping. He also said the Strait of Hormuz is open despite Iranian officials blocking some ships in the area.

Key Facts

  • President Trump mentioned Texas and Alaska pipelines as possible alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for shipping oil and gas between the Middle East and other countries.
  • Iranian officials have blocked some shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • President Trump stated the Strait of Hormuz remains open if ships want to use it.
  • The comments were made during an interview with Fox News.
  • Shipping tracking shows some disruptions in maritime traffic in the region.
  • The Strait of Hormuz situation affects global oil shipments.
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‘We did pull the levers’: emotional Starmer defends his record

‘We did pull the levers’: emotional Starmer defends his record

Summary

Keir Starmer gave his final speech as UK prime minister during the last prime minister’s questions before handing over power to Andy Burnham. He spoke emotionally about his time in office, defended his government’s record, and thanked those who supported him, including his family.

Key Facts

  • Starmer’s term as prime minister will end on Monday, when Andy Burnham takes over.
  • His final speech at prime minister’s questions was emotional and focused on reflections rather than political arguments.
  • Starmer said his government took action to stabilize the economy, improve public services, and reduce child poverty.
  • He acknowledged the fastest drop in NHS waiting lists in 17 years during his time in office.
  • Starmer thanked his family and others who supported him during difficult times, including attacks on his family home.
  • The session included questions about the World Cup and other lighter topics alongside serious political issues.
  • Opposing politicians, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK’s Richard Tice, asked respectful or easy questions in this final session.
  • The UK Parliament chamber observed its usual rule against applause despite some cheering following his farewell.
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Cuba slowly gets power back after third blackout in 10 days

Cuba slowly gets power back after third blackout in 10 days

Summary

Cuba experienced a third nationwide power blackout in ten days, causing the entire country to lose electricity. Officials said the blackouts are linked to problems in the power system worsened by the U.S. oil embargo.

Key Facts

  • Cuba's National Electric System (SEN) went down again on Tuesday, cutting power across the whole country.
  • This was the third blackout in just two weeks.
  • The blackouts are putting strain on Cuba’s electricity grid.
  • The U.S. oil embargo is making it harder for Cuba to get fuel, which affects its power supply.
  • Officials are working to slowly restore electricity after the blackout.
  • The situation highlights ongoing energy challenges for the island nation.
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Prince William and Harry Ex-Aide's Defense of Monarchy Compared to Data

Prince William and Harry Ex-Aide's Defense of Monarchy Compared to Data

Summary

Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, who once worked closely with Prince William and Prince Harry, said the British monarchy has always faced crises but adapts well to survive. Recent polls show younger people in Britain are less supportive of the monarchy, raising questions about its future.

Key Facts

  • Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton was a private secretary to Prince William and Prince Harry.
  • He believes the monarchy is good at changing and adapting to survive over its 1,200-year history.
  • Past challenges to the monarchy included executions of kings, like Charles I.
  • Recent controversies have increased public debate about the royal family’s role and future.
  • Polls show younger British people tend to support the monarchy less than older generations.
  • Data suggests support for removing the monarchy may not reach a majority for many decades.
  • Lowther-Pinkerton left royal service in 2014 and did not comment on recent royal family conflicts.
  • Prince Harry praised Lowther-Pinkerton’s honesty in his book Spare.
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T. rex skeleton fetches record $50.1 mn at US auction

T. rex skeleton fetches record $50.1 mn at US auction

Summary

A nearly complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton called "Gus" sold for $50.1 million at an auction in New York. This sale set a new record for the highest price paid for a dinosaur fossil at auction.

Key Facts

  • The skeleton is named "Gus."
  • It has 183 fossilized bones, making it one of the most complete T. rex skeletons found.
  • "Gus" was discovered in 2021 on a cattle ranch in South Dakota.
  • The auction took place at Sotheby's in New York.
  • Seven bidders competed for the skeleton, making the sale last about 10 minutes.
  • The $50.1 million price is the highest ever paid for a dinosaur fossil at auction.
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Trump warns U.S. strikes will target Iran's power plants, bridges if negotiations remain stalled

Trump warns U.S. strikes will target Iran's power plants, bridges if negotiations remain stalled

Summary

President Donald Trump said the U.S. will strike Iran’s power plants and bridges if Iran does not agree to negotiations. He also canceled a plan to charge cargo ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz and instead wants to focus on trade and investment deals with Gulf countries.

Key Facts

  • President Trump threatened to target Iran’s infrastructure if talks fail.
  • The targets mentioned include power plants and bridges in Iran.
  • He wants Iran to come to the negotiation table.
  • The U.S. had planned to charge fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • That plan was canceled in favor of focusing on trade and investments with Gulf nations.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key shipping route for global oil shipments.
  • U.S. officials are pursuing a new strategy regarding Iran and the Gulf region.
  • Mohammed Sergie, Gulf editor from Semafor, discussed this U.S. approach on CBS Mornings News.
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French National Assembly set to adopt assisted dying law in final vote

French National Assembly set to adopt assisted dying law in final vote

Summary

The French National Assembly is expected to approve a new law allowing assisted dying. This move would make France one of the countries that legally protect the right to end life with medical help.

Key Facts

  • The law concerns assisted dying, where a person can choose medical help to end their life.
  • The bill was supported by President Emmanuel Macron.
  • The final vote in the lower house of the French parliament was scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
  • Some people and groups still oppose the law and want to stop it.
  • If passed, France will join other countries that legally allow assisted dying.
  • The issue has been debated for a long time in France.
  • The law is focused on patients' rights and end-of-life choices.
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A look at the U.S. military's gas stations of the sky

A look at the U.S. military's gas stations of the sky

Summary

The U.S. military uses a Royal Air Force base in Suffolk, England, as an important air refueling station. This station helps support missions related to operations against Iran by allowing planes to refuel while flying.

Key Facts

  • The Royal Air Force base is located in Suffolk, England.
  • The U.S. Air Force operates an air refueling station there.
  • Air refueling means planes get fuel in the air without landing.
  • This station plays a key role in U.S. operations involving Iran.
  • The refueling station helps extend the range and time of military flights.
  • The information was reported by CBS News correspondent Charlie D'Agata.
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Live updates: Todd Blanche, Jay Clayton face Senate confirmation hearings

Live updates: Todd Blanche, Jay Clayton face Senate confirmation hearings

Summary

The U.S. military carried out new daytime attacks on Iran to reduce its ability to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz. On Tuesday, the U.S. also restarted a blockade of this waterway. President Trump held a strategy meeting to plan a larger offensive against Iran.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military launched daytime strikes targeting Iran.
  • The strikes aim to limit Iran’s ability to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The U.S. reimposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday.
  • President Trump held a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday.
  • The meeting focused on planning a broad new offensive against Tehran.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for international shipping.
  • The situation involves rising military tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
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Protest in Pakistan’s Kashmir stalls after nine killed in clashes

Protest in Pakistan’s Kashmir stalls after nine killed in clashes

Summary

Clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have killed at least nine people amid protests against political issues. A planned protest march to the region’s capital, Muzaffarabad, was stopped temporarily as security forces and protesters exchanged gunfire and stone-throwing.

Key Facts

  • At least nine people, including security officers and protesters, were killed in clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
  • Security forces raided a house in Poonch district for weapons and were fired upon, resulting in one officer’s death.
  • In Sudhnoti district, protesters blocked a security convoy, leading to violence that killed seven protesters and one police officer.
  • The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), the protest group, was banned under anti-terrorism laws on June 5.
  • Protesters planned to march to Muzaffarabad but were halted, staying in Rawalakot instead.
  • The government restricted internet and phone access in the region due to security concerns.
  • The protests focus on 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living outside the region, which the group wants removed.
  • Elections are scheduled for July 27, with about 4,000 police and paramilitary forces deployed to maintain order.
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Sea of Azov: Ukraine's New Attacking Campaign Against Russia

Sea of Azov: Ukraine's New Attacking Campaign Against Russia

Summary

Ukraine has launched a new campaign using drones to attack Russian ships in the Sea of Azov. These strikes have greatly reduced Russian maritime traffic and aim to cut off supplies to the Crimean Peninsula without damaging the Kerch Bridge.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine’s drone forces hit 20 Russian vessels overnight, totaling 136 ship strikes from July 6 to 15.
  • The Sea of Azov connects to the Black Sea via the Kerch Strait, which links Crimea to Russia.
  • Ukraine targets Russia’s "shadow fleet," ships hidden to avoid sanctions.
  • Russia suspended shipping on the Don-Azov Channel linking the Sea of Azov to the Don River after the attacks.
  • Ukrainian operations combine attacks on ships and Russian air defenses, showing advanced planning and coordination.
  • Ukraine has no traditional navy in the Black Sea but uses drones to control the area.
  • Ukrainian strikes also target fuel and supply routes to isolate Crimea, causing fuel shortages there.
  • Maritime traffic in the Sea of Azov dropped sharply from 132 ships to 43 between July 6 and July 12.
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‘They want to break our will’: Gaza flotilla activist tells of rape in Israeli detention

‘They want to break our will’: Gaza flotilla activist tells of rape in Israeli detention

Summary

Anna Liedtke, a European activist detained by Israeli forces after trying to deliver aid to Gaza, has accused Israeli female guards of raping her during her imprisonment. Liedtke and lawyers have filed a complaint demanding an investigation into her allegations, highlighting concerns over sexual violence in Israeli detention centers.

Key Facts

  • Anna Liedtke was detained for five days after Israeli forces intercepted her flotilla boat in international waters near Gaza.
  • She reported being illegally strip-searched three times and raped by female guards during her detention.
  • Male guards were reportedly present and possibly filmed the attack.
  • Liedtke has publicly spoken about her experience and filed a criminal complaint in Israel seeking justice and an investigation.
  • Allegations of sexual violence against Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails have been reported for years and are now said to be expanding to foreign activists.
  • The United Nations has placed Israel on a blacklist for sexual violence in conflict situations, based on documented abuse.
  • Other countries like Australia and France are investigating similar allegations related to flotilla activists.
  • Liedtke’s legal team aims to challenge what they call a “culture of impunity” for prisoner abuses in Israel.
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Shock and solidarity after wildfires ravage Fontainebleau

Shock and solidarity after wildfires ravage Fontainebleau

Summary

Large wildfires have damaged parts of the Fontainebleau forest near Paris, France. Firefighters have contained the fires, but they are not fully out yet, and local people are surprised because fires are not common in this area.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires broke out in the Fontainebleau forest region close to Paris.
  • The fires have destroyed large forest areas.
  • Firefighters have managed to contain the blaze but not completely extinguish it.
  • Fontainebleau is an area that usually does not experience forest fires.
  • Local residents are shocked by the event.
  • The report was issued on July 15, 2026.
  • The news was covered by France 24 correspondent Claire Paccalin on site.
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As the US restarts war on Iran, is its weapons stockpile running low?

As the US restarts war on Iran, is its weapons stockpile running low?

Summary

President Donald Trump is speaking at a defense summit amid renewed US air attacks on Iran that have rapidly used up parts of the US military’s weapon supplies. The conflict resumed after a ceasefire ended, with both sides blaming each other for violations, and the US has reimposed a naval blockade and sanctions on Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Trump will address a defense summit at the US Army War College in Pennsylvania.
  • The US restarted military attacks on Iran last week after an earlier ceasefire collapsed.
  • The US has used up about half of at least four critical types of munitions since the conflict began on February 28.
  • Replenishing the depleted weapon stockpile could take months or years.
  • The renewed conflict started after Iran fired on commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The US reimposed a naval blockade and sanctions on Iran-linked ships.
  • Iran’s military has retaliated with attacks on US bases in several Gulf countries.
  • Over a dozen people, including civilians, have died in Iran since the recent wave of attacks.
  • President Trump threatened to damage Iran’s power plants and bridges unless they negotiate.
  • Analysts warn the shrinking US weapons stockpile could weaken the military in a future conflict, especially against China.
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Watch: Standing ovation for Starmer as he answers his last PMQs

Watch: Standing ovation for Starmer as he answers his last PMQs

Summary

Sir Keir Starmer gave his final answer during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) and received a standing ovation from MPs. He thanked those helped by his party’s work, his family, and said goodbye before leaving the chamber. Andy Burnham is expected to become the new Labour leader and Prime Minister next month.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer spoke for the last time as leader during Prime Minister’s Questions.
  • He received a standing ovation from members of his party and other MPs.
  • Starmer thanked people who were helped by the Labour government’s actions.
  • He also thanked his wife and children in his final statement.
  • After speaking, he shook hands with the Speaker of the House of Commons.
  • Andy Burnham will become the new Labour leader soon.
  • Burnham is expected to become Prime Minister on 20 July.
  • Burnham will appear at PMQs for the first time after the summer break.
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Will Lindsey Graham’s death affect Israel’s standing in Washington?

Will Lindsey Graham’s death affect Israel’s standing in Washington?

Summary

US Senator Lindsey Graham, known for his strong support of Israel, has passed away, ending the political group called the "Three Amigos" who championed Israeli interests in Washington. While his death affects immediate communication channels between the US and Israel, long-term impacts on Israel’s position in the US depend on broader political and regional issues.

Key Facts

  • Lindsey Graham, John McCain, and Joseph Lieberman were close friends and strong supporters of Israel, called the "Three Amigos."
  • Graham’s passing ends this influential trio in US politics.
  • Support for Israel in the US comes from strong lobbying groups like AIPAC, which influences political campaigns.
  • President Donald Trump valued Israel’s support due to intelligence sharing and regional cooperation.
  • Graham acted as a key link between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
  • Netanyahu’s policies, including conflict in Lebanon, Gaza, and West Bank annexation, have complicated Israel’s standing globally and in the US.
  • Israel’s continued military conflicts and political actions may weaken its long-term relationship with the US.
  • Although Graham’s death creates short-term difficulties, broader Israeli political actions are more important for their future US ties.
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From enemy to enchanter: Venezuela’s gambit to win Israel’s favor

From enemy to enchanter: Venezuela’s gambit to win Israel’s favor

Summary

Venezuela’s interim government is trying to build better relations with Israel, mainly for practical reasons rather than strong personal beliefs. This move shows a change from previous tensions between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela’s interim government wants to improve ties with Israel.
  • The effort is driven by convenience, not strong feelings or beliefs.
  • Relations between Venezuela and Israel have been tense in the past.
  • This change may affect Venezuela’s foreign policy and international image.
  • The interim government is focused on political and strategic benefits.
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Three men who raped woman on Brighton beach jailed

Three men who raped woman on Brighton beach jailed

Summary

Three men attacked and raped a woman on Brighton beach in early October. They were sentenced to long prison terms after being found guilty of taking part in a planned and cruel assault.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened on Brighton beach in the early hours of 4 October.
  • The three men are asylum seekers: Abdulla Ahmadi (26, from Iran), Ibrahim Alshafe (25, from Egypt), and Karin Al-Danasurt (20, from Egypt).
  • Ahmadi and Alshafe were each sentenced to 21 years in prison.
  • Al-Danasurt, who filmed the attack, was sentenced to 18 years and six months.
  • All three will serve at least two thirds of their sentences before they can apply for parole.
  • They will also spend an additional six years on extended licence, which is supervised release after prison.
  • The judge described the attack as predatory and callous, with a profound and lasting impact on the victim.
  • The victim reported lasting trauma, including feeling contaminated despite trying to wash away the experience.
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