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Middle East live: US strikes Iran for third night as Trump says deal still 'possible'

Middle East live: US strikes Iran for third night as Trump says deal still 'possible'

Summary

The United States launched airstrikes against Iran for a third night, targeting a submarine and ship facility in Bandar Abbas. Despite the attacks, President Donald Trump said that a deal with Iran is still possible. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates reported that Iran attacked two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, causing one death and several injuries.

Key Facts

  • The US carried out strikes on Iran’s military facilities over three consecutive nights.
  • President Donald Trump notified Congress that hostilities against Iran resumed on July 7, opening a 60-day window for military action without further approval.
  • The US has reimposed a blockade on Iranian ports as part of its military actions.
  • Iran attacked two ships in the Strait of Hormuz with cruise missiles, killing one crew member and wounding eight others, according to the UAE.
  • The US Central Command said the targets included a submarine and ship maintenance facility in Bandar Abbas, Iran.
  • Iran’s Foreign Minister mocked President Trump’s threat to impose high fees on commercial shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • US military officials stated that traffic is still flowing through the Strait of Hormuz despite tensions and attacks.
  • The situation represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran in the Middle East.
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Trump wants Gulf countries on the hook for Strait of Hormuz ‘protection’

Trump wants Gulf countries on the hook for Strait of Hormuz ‘protection’

Summary

President Donald Trump said that Gulf countries should pay the United States for protecting ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He highlighted that the U.S. spends money to keep this important shipping route safe for wealthy nations in the region.

Key Facts

  • President Trump mentioned several countries in the Persian Gulf.
  • He wants these countries to reimburse the U.S. for protection services.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for shipping and oil transport.
  • The U.S. actively protects ships passing through this area.
  • The region includes wealthy nations that benefit from safe passage.
  • President Trump emphasized the cost the U.S. bears for this security.
  • The discussion took place publicly on a Monday.
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Andy Serkis defends lack of diversity in Lord of the Rings cast

Andy Serkis defends lack of diversity in Lord of the Rings cast

Summary

Andy Serkis is directing and starring in a new Lord of the Rings film called The Hunt for Gollum, which will come out at Christmas next year. He explained that the story explores Gollum’s past and the origin of Bilbo Baggins’ ring. Serkis addressed questions about the mainly white cast, saying it reflects the original setting inspired by Norse mythology, and that they cast actors based on the story, not to meet diversity quotas.

Key Facts

  • Andy Serkis is directing and starring in The Hunt for Gollum, set between The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings trilogies.
  • The film focuses on Gollum’s backstory and the possible origin of Bilbo’s ring.
  • The second new Lord of the Rings film, Shadow of the Past, will be written by Stephen Colbert but not directed by Serkis.
  • The announced cast for The Hunt for Gollum is primarily white, including Jamie Dornan, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kate Winslet, Elijah Wood, and Ian McKellan.
  • Serkis explained the mostly white cast is due to the story’s setting influenced by Northern European mythology and cultural ideas from Tolkien’s books.
  • Serkis has supported equality in the past and understands minority experiences, but said this film casts actors based on story relevance, not to appear politically correct.
  • Serkis also directed an animated version of Animal Farm, which has a star voice cast including Seth Rogen and Woody Harrelson.
  • The animated Animal Farm film was released in the UK around the time of the interview.
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No significant rain forecast for at least a week as UK heatwave continues

No significant rain forecast for at least a week as UK heatwave continues

Summary

The UK is experiencing a heatwave with little to no rain expected for at least a week. Many areas have gone several weeks without measurable rainfall, leading to water restrictions and increased wildfire risks.

Key Facts

  • Large parts of England have recorded no rain for nearly a month; for example, Wisley, Surrey, has had 26 consecutive dry days.
  • More than eight million households in England face hosepipe bans due to drought.
  • The UK has broken several temperature records this summer, including a new June high of 37.7°C (99.9°F).
  • Rainfall in Wales and Northern Ireland is also far below normal, with some places receiving under 10% of usual July rain.
  • Northwest Scotland is an exception, receiving around 40% or more of its typical rainfall.
  • High pressure weather systems are keeping the UK dry and warm, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F) in southern England.
  • Wildfires are ongoing in several areas like Greater Manchester and Conwy, with a high risk of new fires across England and Wales.
  • Dry conditions increase wildfire risk but fires need an ignition source such as sparks or discarded cigarettes to start.
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UK children will be one of unhealthiest generations in decades, doctors say

UK children will be one of unhealthiest generations in decades, doctors say

Summary

A group of doctors in the UK says that children there will be among the unhealthiest in decades because child health has not improved or has worsened in many areas. Problems include low vaccination rates, rising hospital visits for asthma and mental health issues, and big health differences between richer and poorer areas.

Key Facts

  • Child health in the UK has stopped improving or has gotten worse across many important measures.
  • Only 84% of children get both doses of the MMR vaccine by age five, below the 95% target set by the World Health Organization.
  • The UK has one of the highest asthma death rates in Europe.
  • Infant death rates in the UK have not improved much since 2023 and are higher than in many other European countries.
  • Children from poorer areas have more than twice the rates of infant deaths and obesity compared to children from richer areas.
  • A new report by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health calls the UK’s child health record a "national embarrassment."
  • The report urges the new government to invest more in children’s health services, improve data collection, and set clear goals to help children’s health.
  • Only 12% of parents think child health in the UK has gotten better in the last 10 years.
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How my period is supercharging my ADHD

How my period is supercharging my ADHD

Summary

Women with ADHD may experience stronger symptoms, such as difficulty focusing and emotional changes, around their menstrual periods. A study by Kings College and Queen Mary University in London is investigating how menstrual cycles affect ADHD symptoms and medication effectiveness.

Key Facts

  • ADHD is a condition affecting focus, emotions, and restlessness.
  • Many women report worsening ADHD symptoms during their menstrual cycle.
  • The study involves 50 women with ADHD who track their symptoms and hormone levels.
  • About 2.5 million people in the UK have ADHD, with many waiting for diagnosis.
  • ADHD medication prescriptions increased by 23% in the UK over the past year.
  • Some women say their ADHD symptoms feel disabling at certain cycle times.
  • Researchers believe low estrogen before periods impacts dopamine, worsening symptoms.
  • This study aims to better understand hormone links to ADHD and improve treatment.
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Lake Powell reaching critically low elevation levels, experts say

Lake Powell reaching critically low elevation levels, experts say

Summary

Lake Powell, the second-largest reservoir in the U.S., is nearing critically low water levels that threaten hydropower production. The water level is just about 34 feet above the minimum needed to generate power and could soon fall below that, causing serious concerns for water supply in the western states.

Key Facts

  • Lake Powell's water level is currently at 3,524.3 feet above sea level.
  • The "dead power pool" level, below which hydropower cannot be produced, starts at 3,490 feet.
  • The reservoir is about 27 percent full, holding roughly 5.52 million acre-feet of water.
  • The lake has lost about 4,800 acre-feet of water daily since June 1, 2026.
  • If water falls to 3,370 feet, Lake Powell will reach "dead pool," stopping water flow by gravity downstream.
  • Millions of people in Arizona, California, and Nevada rely on Lake Powell's water.
  • The Colorado River Basin suffers from the lowest snowpack ever recorded, worsening water shortages.
  • Some rain and snow might come due to monsoon season and El Niño but will not solve long-term drought problems.
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Trump says U.S. 'taking over the strait' as conflict with Iran reignites

Trump says U.S. 'taking over the strait' as conflict with Iran reignites

Summary

The United States has launched attacks on Iran for three nights in a row. Iran responded by firing a missile at a U.S. Navy ship. President Trump said the fighting between the two countries has restarted and announced a blockade of Iran and the Strait of Hormuz along with a 20% tax on ships passing through.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has attacked Iran for three consecutive nights.
  • Iran fired a missile at a U.S. Navy ship in response.
  • President Trump told Congress the U.S. and Iran are fighting again.
  • The U.S. will blockade Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for oil shipping.
  • President Trump announced a 20% tax on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The U.S. government previously opposed a similar tax proposed by Iran.
  • The situation is escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
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Mick Jagger says he doesn't want to "lecture" fans on politics

Mick Jagger says he doesn't want to "lecture" fans on politics

Summary

Mick Jagger spoke with The New York Times about how he uses politics in his music. He said he does not want to give political lessons or lecture his fans through his songs.

Key Facts

  • Mick Jagger discussed politics and music in a recent New York Times interview.
  • He prefers not to lecture or teach fans about politics through his music.
  • The topic was covered on CBS News, including a segment called "The Takeout."
  • Political strategists Erin Maguire and Dan Kanninen joined the discussion on CBS News.
  • The article included links to watch CBS News coverage on this topic.
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US launches third night of strikes on Iran as Trump announces Hormuz blockade

US launches third night of strikes on Iran as Trump announces Hormuz blockade

Summary

The US has launched three nights of air strikes on Iran following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a maritime blockade and plans to charge ships a 20% fee for passing through the Strait of Hormuz. These moves mark a shift in US policy and have raised tensions, with Iran threatening strong opposition and the international community concerned about the impact on global shipping and oil supplies.

Key Facts

  • The US military carried out air strikes on Iran for three consecutive nights.
  • President Trump declared a maritime blockade on Iran, targeting all ports and coastal areas.
  • The US plans to charge a 20% tariff on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The blockade and fees contradict previous US policy and international rules promoting free navigation.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guard accused the US of threatening global oil and gas security.
  • The International Maritime Organization opposes charging fees for passage in international waters.
  • Brent crude oil prices increased by nearly 8% after these developments.
  • The US Navy stated it would intercept ships violating the blockade, potentially using force.
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What we know about the cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to produce

What we know about the cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to produce

Summary

An outbreak of a parasite called Cyclospora is affecting people in 31 U.S. states this summer. Cases are much higher than usual and are causing illness in many individuals.

Key Facts

  • Cyclospora is a parasite that causes intestinal illness.
  • The outbreak is currently reported in 31 states across the U.S.
  • More people are getting sick this summer compared to past years.
  • This illness affects the digestive system and can cause symptoms like diarrhea.
  • Health experts are monitoring and investigating the source of the outbreak.
  • Dr. Omer Awan from the University of Maryland School of Medicine discussed details on the situation.
  • The outbreak is linked to certain fresh produce, but exact items are still under review.
  • Authorities are working to inform the public and reduce the spread of the parasite.
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U.S. begins third straight night of airstrikes against Iran

U.S. begins third straight night of airstrikes against Iran

Summary

The U.S. military started a third night in a row of airstrikes targeting locations in Iran, according to CENTCOM, the U.S. military command responsible for the Middle East. These strikes are part of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. conducted airstrikes against Iran for three consecutive nights.
  • CENTCOM, the U.S. Central Command, reported the airstrikes.
  • The airstrikes took place on Monday night.
  • The strikes target locations inside Iran.
  • National security experts are discussing the situation on news programs.
  • The event reflects ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran.
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Scoop: Trump gave Saudi crown prince his backing for risky strikes on Houthis

Scoop: Trump gave Saudi crown prince his backing for risky strikes on Houthis

Summary

President Donald Trump supported Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s request to carry out military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen. The Saudi attack on Sanaa airport and the Houthi missile retaliation mark a serious escalation in the conflict, risking the breakdown of a four-year unofficial truce.

Key Facts

  • President Trump gave backing to Saudi Arabia for a military action against the Iran-supported Houthis.
  • Saudi Arabia bombed Sanaa airport on Monday after an Iranian plane landed there carrying Houthi leaders.
  • The Houthis responded by launching missiles and drones at a Saudi airport in retaliation.
  • The Saudi attack could end a four-year unofficial truce between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.
  • Saudi officials asked the U.S. for support and informed President Trump in advance.
  • Iran’s Mahan Air, linked to Iran’s military forces, flew the Houthi delegation to a funeral in Iran.
  • Saudi Arabia blocked Iranian flights to Yemen for over a decade, fearing they would transport weapons or military experts.
  • The worsening conflict raises concerns about broader regional tensions involving the U.S. and Iran.
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Police hope new photos will help find remains of British backpacker Peter Falconio 25 years after infamous murder

Police hope new photos will help find remains of British backpacker Peter Falconio 25 years after infamous murder

Summary

Police in Australia have released new photos to help find the remains of British backpacker Peter Falconio, who was murdered 25 years ago. The convicted killer, Bradley John Murdoch, died without revealing where Falconio’s body is hidden, and the case remains open as officers seek new information.

Key Facts

  • Peter Falconio disappeared on July 14, 2001, in Australia’s Northern Territory.
  • Bradley John Murdoch was convicted of Falconio’s murder but died on July 15, 2025, without revealing where Falconio’s remains are.
  • Falconio’s girlfriend, Joanne Lees, escaped an attempted abduction during the attack.
  • Northern Territory police have reopened the case and shared new photos, including images of Lees after the attack and Murdoch’s police photos.
  • Evidence photos show the couple’s orange van, injuries to Lees, and crime scene markers.
  • Police continue to offer a $500,000 reward for information leading to Falconio’s remains.
  • Authorities believe Murdoch may have told someone about the body’s location despite denying involvement publicly.
  • Police encourage anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward to help close the case.
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Trump's Strait of Hormuz blockade erases last concession to Iran in preliminary deal

Trump's Strait of Hormuz blockade erases last concession to Iran in preliminary deal

Summary

President Donald Trump announced the return of a U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports and plans to charge commercial ships that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This move cancels the final part of a recent preliminary peace agreement with Iran and aims to recover some costs from the ongoing conflict.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said the U.S. will become the "guardian" of the Strait of Hormuz and charge ships 20% of their cargo's value for safe passage.
  • The naval blockade resumes after being lifted just 26 days ago under a peace deal with Iran.
  • This action ends the last compromise made to Iran in the preliminary agreement signed at the Palace of Versailles.
  • The announcement surprised some U.S. officials, foreign governments, and international groups.
  • The U.S. Central Command stated the blockade would start again on Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, with more information to come for ship operators.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio disagrees with charging fees, calling it a violation of international law and unsupported globally.
  • The U.S. has spent a large amount on the conflict, with a recent request for over $67 billion in emergency defense funds.
  • Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have increased recently due to retaliatory attacks on both sides.
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More than 53,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated by South Africa in a crackdown

More than 53,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated by South Africa in a crackdown

Summary

South Africa has sent more than 53,000 African immigrants back to their home countries in one month. Most of these immigrants, over 80%, are from Malawi. This action happened during protests against illegal migration.

Key Facts

  • Over 53,000 immigrants were deported or moved back voluntarily in South Africa within one month.
  • More than 80% of these immigrants are from Malawi.
  • South African authorities carried out this crackdown on illegal migration.
  • The crackdown took place alongside protests that were sometimes violent.
  • The officials did not specify how many were forced to leave versus those who left voluntarily.
  • The South African Justice Minister is Mmamoloko Kubayi.
  • The action targets illegal immigration into South Africa.
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WATCH:  The latest on Yellowstone bison launching man 8 feet in air

WATCH: The latest on Yellowstone bison launching man 8 feet in air

Summary

A man was thrown about 8 feet into the air by a bison in Yellowstone National Park. Experts from the Bison Conservation Herd explained how the man is recovering and gave advice on how to behave around wild animals.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Yellowstone National Park.
  • A wild bison launched a man into the air around 8 feet high.
  • The man’s condition after the attack was discussed by wildlife experts.
  • Jennifer Barfield is the scientific lead for the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd.
  • Experts shared tips on what to do if you encounter a wild animal like a bison.
  • The event was reported in a news video by ABC News.
  • Wild animals like bison can be dangerous, especially if approached too closely.
  • Yellowstone is known for its large population of wild bison.
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Trump says US will ‘take out’ Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility

Trump says US will ‘take out’ Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility

Summary

President Donald Trump stated that the United States might soon carry out an attack on Pickaxe Mountain, a nuclear facility in Iran. This statement came as U.S. forces began new military strikes against Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Trump mentioned Pickaxe Mountain as a possible target for a U.S. attack.
  • Pickaxe Mountain is a nuclear facility located in Iran.
  • The U.S. has started a new series of military strikes against Iran.
  • Trump described the potential attack as a “nice big fat shot” near the facility.
  • The statement was made during an interview on “The Hugh Hewitt Show.”
  • The timing suggests escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
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Mexico to file criminal complaints over migrants killed by ICE in US

Mexico to file criminal complaints over migrants killed by ICE in US

Summary

Mexico plans to file criminal complaints in the US about the deaths of more than a dozen Mexican migrants in US immigration detention and operations. This includes the recent killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston, a case that has led Mexico to take legal action after efforts with diplomatic letters failed.

Key Facts

  • Mexico announced it will file criminal complaints in US courts over migrant deaths.
  • At least 17 Mexican migrants have died since President Trump increased immigration enforcement: 14 in detention and 3 during immigration operations.
  • Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was shot and killed in Houston on July 7 while going to work.
  • US Department of Homeland Security says Salgado tried to attack an ICE officer, but other witnesses disagree.
  • Salgado had lived in the US for nearly 35 years and had no criminal record.
  • Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum says the country will no longer rely only on diplomatic letters for justice.
  • Relations between Mexico and the US have been tense, including US operations in Mexico without permission and charges against Mexican officials for drug cartel ties.
  • Mexico refuses to hand over Governor Rubén Rocha Moya to US authorities, citing lack of evidence.
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Indian activist on hunger strike at 'cockroach' protest loses 8.2kg

Indian activist on hunger strike at 'cockroach' protest loses 8.2kg

Summary

Sonam Wangchuk, a 59-year-old Indian engineer and climate activist, has been on a hunger strike for 16 days at a protest in Delhi demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over a leaked medical entrance exam. Despite significant weight loss and health concerns, Wangchuk continues his protest to push for educational reforms.

Key Facts

  • Sonam Wangchuk has lost 8.2 kg (18 pounds) during his 16-day hunger strike.
  • His blood pressure and blood sugar levels have dropped to concerning levels.
  • The protest is held at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, a well-known site for demonstrations.
  • The protest group, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demands the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan after a medical exam paper leak.
  • Pradhan has refused to resign, calling the protesters disruptive elements.
  • Wangchuk is inspired by Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and is using hunger strike as protest.
  • Wangchuk is recognized internationally for his work on climate adaptation, including creating artificial glaciers called "ice stupas."
  • Despite high temperatures, hundreds support the protest in solidarity with Wangchuk and the CJP’s demands.
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