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EU demands Facebook and Instagram dismantle design features it calls addictive for users

EU demands Facebook and Instagram dismantle design features it calls addictive for users

Summary

The European Union has accused Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, of making these platforms addictive by using features like infinite scrolling and autoplay videos. The EU wants Meta to disable these features because they can harm users’ physical and mental health, especially children, and has started a legal process that could lead to fines.

Key Facts

  • The EU says Meta violated its Digital Services Act by designing addictive features on Facebook and Instagram.
  • Features like infinite scrolling and autoplay videos make users spend more time on the platforms.
  • Meta has tools to manage usage, but the EU says they are too hard to use or can be easily ignored.
  • Meta introduced Teen Accounts that protect teens and allow parents to limit screen time.
  • The EU wants changes to the design so that addictive features are off by default.
  • If Meta doesn’t fix the issues, it could face fines up to 6% of its global yearly revenue.
  • The EU emphasizes protecting users’ mental and physical health as a priority.
  • The investigation started in 2024 over concerns about protecting children on social media.
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A cultural stroll through Paris with Kalash and Manon Lisa

A cultural stroll through Paris with Kalash and Manon Lisa

Summary

The article features French rapper Kalash and singer Manon Lisa in a cultural segment in Paris. Kalash talks about his new album, while Manon Lisa performs a song about finding happiness in simple things. The story ends with a boat trip on Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

Key Facts

  • Kalash is a well-known French rapper who released a new album called "Ex-Voto."
  • He discusses his feelings, spirituality, and being a 38-year-old father as influences on his music.
  • Manon Lisa is a singer who performs her single "Le Petit Pêcheur."
  • Her song celebrates enjoying life’s simple pleasures and questions what true happiness means.
  • The program includes a boat ride on Lake Geneva, the largest lake in Western Europe.
  • The content is from the show "Paris des Arts," which highlights arts and culture.
  • The episode aired on July 10, 2026.
  • The article also mentions how to enable video playback if blocked by browser extensions.
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Fall in funding cuts aid to 1 million women: UN

Fall in funding cuts aid to 1 million women: UN

Summary

The United Nations reports that over the past 18 months, more than one million women and girls have lost access to critical aid due to big cuts in global funding. Many organizations that support women and girls cannot meet the growing demand because donors like the United States and several European countries have reduced their foreign aid budgets.

Key Facts

  • At least one million women and girls are no longer receiving life-saving aid because of funding cuts.
  • 90% of organizations serving women and girls say they cannot meet current needs due to loss of money.
  • The US, once the largest aid donor, cut its foreign aid by over 50% after President Trump reduced funding and dismantled USAID.
  • Other donors such as Germany, France, and the UK have also reduced aid, partly due to their own budget pressures and increased defense spending.
  • A UN survey found 40% of women’s organizations might shut down within a year because of low funding.
  • 60% of these organizations are helping fewer women and girls than before despite higher needs.
  • Many groups report turning women and girls away or placing them on waiting lists.
  • Services addressing conflict-related sexual violence have decreased even though such violence has doubled.
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How Hamas Governed Gaza

How Hamas Governed Gaza

Summary

Hamas is ending its role as the ruling authority in Gaza after almost 20 years. The group is transferring control to a new government made up of experts who will manage Gaza’s affairs.

Key Facts

  • Hamas has been the main governing force in Gaza for nearly two decades.
  • The group is now dissolving its own government.
  • Power will be handed over to a technocratic administration, which means a government run by specialists and experts rather than politicians.
  • Gaza has been under a blockade during Hamas’s time in power.
  • The change could affect Gaza’s future governance and daily life for its residents.
  • The announcement was reported by Al Jazeera journalist Marah Rayan.
  • This shift marks a significant change in how Gaza will be managed.
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India is becoming a shaping power

India is becoming a shaping power

Summary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia marked a significant step in improving India-Australia relations, including new defense cooperation and uranium exports for civilian energy. This visit, part of a larger trip to Indonesia and New Zealand, reflects India’s goal to strengthen its role in the Asia Pacific amid changing power dynamics involving China and the United States.

Key Facts

  • In 1998, Australia suspended defense cooperation with India after India's nuclear tests.
  • This week, during Modi’s visit, Australia invited an Indian military instructor to its Defence College.
  • Modi’s tour included Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand, showing India’s growing interest in the Asia Pacific region.
  • Australia and India share values as English-speaking, federal democracies that support rule of law.
  • Australia has agreed to sell uranium to India for civilian nuclear energy, reversing a previous ban.
  • India and Australia also agreed on expanded cooperation in defense, maritime security, cyber technology, clean energy, and critical minerals.
  • China’s rise and America's unpredictable stance under President Trump influence India’s and other regional countries’ strategic plans.
  • India experienced border clashes with China in 2020, and Australia has faced economic pressure from China, motivating both to strengthen partnerships.
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The dark side of the World Cup: A rise in domestic violence

The dark side of the World Cup: A rise in domestic violence

Summary

During the World Cup, there has been a noticeable increase in domestic violence, which has caused concern among women's rights groups. The report also highlights challenges faced by women journalists covering the event and notes a growing number of women leading a DJ music scene in Pakistan.

Key Facts

  • Studies show more cases of domestic abuse during the World Cup.
  • Women's rights activists are raising awareness about this issue.
  • Women journalists covering the World Cup face specific challenges.
  • There is a rising DJ scene in Pakistan, with many women involved.
  • The report was shared by France 24 in a program called The 51 Percent.
  • The World Cup continues to attract millions of viewers worldwide.
  • The increase in domestic violence is considered a negative side effect of the event.
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Devastation, agony and hope: What we saw in Venezuela after the earthquakes

Devastation, agony and hope: What we saw in Venezuela after the earthquakes

Summary

Two strong earthquakes hit Venezuela, causing heavy damage especially in the coastal city of La Guaira. Thousands of people died or were injured, and many others were displaced, leading to ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24, hitting La Guaira hardest.
  • Nearly 4,000 people have been confirmed dead, with many more missing.
  • Buildings collapsed, trapping people under rubble and making rescue difficult.
  • Rescue teams came from different countries, including the United States.
  • The disaster displaced many families, some living in tent camps.
  • Basic supplies like food and water were delivered by locals and volunteers.
  • The main airport near Caracas was damaged, forcing alternate travel routes.
  • Despite the tragedy, locals showed resilience and hope, with children playing and communities helping each other.
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At least 1 million women have lost access to aid after funding cuts, UN says

At least 1 million women have lost access to aid after funding cuts, UN says

Summary

The United Nations reports that at least 1 million women have lost access to important aid due to funding cuts over the past 18 months. These cuts followed reduced foreign aid from the United States starting in early 2025, affecting many women’s organizations worldwide and limiting services for women and girls in crisis.

Key Facts

  • Over 1 million women have lost aid after budget cuts in the last 18 months.
  • UN Women surveyed 855 women’s organizations in 52 countries about the impact.
  • 84% of these groups reported increased needs since January 2025.
  • The U.S., the largest UN donor, cut foreign aid after President Trump took office in 2025.
  • About 90% of the women’s groups say they can no longer meet current demands.
  • 20% of these organizations expect to close temporarily or permanently within a year.
  • Conflict-related sexual violence doubled last year, increasing the need for support.
  • Global development aid fell nearly 25% in 2025, the biggest drop on record.
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Prince Harry plays pickleball at Invictus Games event, but no Meghan

Prince Harry plays pickleball at Invictus Games event, but no Meghan

Summary

Prince Harry took part in a pickleball game at an event promoting the Invictus Games in Birmingham, but his wife Meghan did not attend any public events in the UK this week. His visit faced difficulties, including a court case loss and confusion about accommodations and Meghan’s participation.

Key Facts

  • Prince Harry attended the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham for an Invictus Games event featuring sports like wheelchair rugby and pickleball.
  • Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, was scheduled to appear but withdrew from all UK public events due to a security dispute.
  • The Invictus Games support injured military veterans and are an international event started by Prince Harry.
  • There was confusion over whether Prince Harry would stay at Buckingham Palace; the Palace denied his stay.
  • Prince Harry lost a court case against Associated Newspapers about unlawful information gathering.
  • Some events during his UK visit were closed to the press.
  • Prince Harry received a warm welcome at a children’s hospital in Birmingham later in the week.
  • Meghan’s representatives did not comment on private meetings, leaving open the possibility of family meetings with King Charles.
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Bayeux tapestry arrives on British shores for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ exhibition

Bayeux tapestry arrives on British shores for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ exhibition

Summary

The Bayeux Tapestry, which tells the story of the Norman conquest of England nearly 1,000 years ago, has returned to England for the first time in centuries. It arrived at the British Museum for a special exhibition that will run from September 2024 to July 2027.

Key Facts

  • The Bayeux Tapestry came back to England on a secret journey, arriving early Friday near the British Museum.
  • This is the first time the tapestry has been in England for almost 1,000 years.
  • The tapestry will be on display for about three years at the British Museum, from September 2024 to July 2027.
  • It shows the events of the Norman conquest of England in the 11th century.
  • The tapestry was transported carefully in a climate-controlled case to protect it.
  • About 100,000 tickets were sold on the first day, and the museum expects around 7.5 million visitors over the exhibition.
  • The artwork has been displayed in Bayeux, France, since 1983 and will return there after museum renovations.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron and UK officials described the loan as a symbol of friendship between the two countries.
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Defence spending, Erdogan-style: Guns for NATO leaders

Defence spending, Erdogan-style: Guns for NATO leaders

Summary

At a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gave unusual gifts to NATO leaders: engraved pistols with six live bullets each. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump flew back on a different plane than the one gifted by Qatar because the gifted Boeing jet lacked important safety features. Israeli intelligence also warned of an Iranian plot to assassinate President Trump.

Key Facts

  • President Erdogan gave NATO leaders engraved pistols with six live bullets as gifts at the Ankara summit.
  • Some leaders turned the guns over to authorities due to legal and safety concerns.
  • European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to donate her gift to a museum.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer left his pistol in Ankara to be safely deactivated.
  • President Donald Trump did not use the Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar to return from the summit because it lacks counter-missile defenses.
  • Trump flew home on a different, less fancy plane for his safety.
  • Israeli intelligence told the U.S. about an alleged Iranian plan to assassinate President Trump.
  • The gift of guns from Erdogan surprised NATO leaders because of safety and legal issues.
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EU states do not need ‘consensus’ to hold Israel accountable

EU states do not need ‘consensus’ to hold Israel accountable

Summary

European Union (EU) foreign ministers are meeting to discuss issues related to Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel’s actions. Despite international law and reports of violations, some EU countries block strong actions, and relations with Israel remain a priority over enforcing legal commitments.

Key Facts

  • EU foreign ministers will meet in Brussels to discuss Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel-related topics on July 13.
  • Issues include trade from Israeli settlements, possible sanctions on Israeli officials, and enforcement of the EU-Israel Association Agreement.
  • Some EU countries like Germany and Italy have blocked strong measures against Israel’s actions.
  • Reports show Israel damaged more than 150 million euros of EU-funded projects in Palestinian territories without facing consequences.
  • A 2026 UN report labeled Israeli actions against Palestinian children as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
  • The EU’s legal advice from 2017 suggested that it could suspend the Association Agreement with Israel but has not done so.
  • The International Court of Justice ruled Israel’s occupation unlawful and stated all countries must not support it.
  • EU member states have legal tools to act individually without needing full EU agreement.
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Trump grants Kyiv Patriots licences: What’s next in the Russia-Ukraine war?

Trump grants Kyiv Patriots licences: What’s next in the Russia-Ukraine war?

Summary

President Donald Trump has given Ukraine permission to produce Patriot missile interceptors, a key weapon Ukraine uses to defend itself against Russian attacks. Ukraine plans to learn how to make these complex missiles domestically, although it may take time before production starts.

Key Facts

  • Patriot missiles are expensive, American-made weapons that Ukraine uses to stop Russian attacks.
  • Frequent Russian strikes have reduced Ukraine’s supply of these missiles.
  • President Trump told Ukrainian President Zelenskyy that the US will share technology to help Ukraine build its own Patriots.
  • Trump did not specify when Ukraine could start making the missiles and said the US will keep its own supply.
  • Experts say Ukraine might first produce simpler missile parts and it could take less than a year to begin production.
  • Patriot missile systems include missiles, launchers, radar, and a control vehicle to move stealthily.
  • The war is evolving with more use of drones and networked technology, allowing real-time coordination on the battlefield.
  • Ukraine’s military is increasingly relying on modern technology amid challenges with soldier recruitment and desertion.
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What future for Gaza after Hamas dissolves governing body?

What future for Gaza after Hamas dissolves governing body?

Summary

Hamas has announced it is dissolving its government in Gaza and is ready to hand power to a group of technocrats chosen by President Donald Trump's Board of Peace. Despite this, Israel continues military actions in Gaza, controls much of the area, and the new technocratic committee has not yet entered Gaza, raising questions about who holds real power.

Key Facts

  • Hamas declared it was ending its control as Gaza’s government this week.
  • The group said it will give power to technocrats appointed by President Trump’s Board of Peace.
  • Israel called Hamas's move a public relations stunt.
  • The Israeli military keeps bombing Gaza despite a declared ceasefire.
  • Israel now controls over 60% of Gaza’s territory.
  • The technocratic committee has not yet entered Gaza to take power.
  • Experts say dissolving Hamas’s government could help peace talks.
  • There is uncertainty if the U.S. will fully support the peace plan for Gaza.
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Pakistan recovers more cargo plane debris from Arabian Sea as search for missing crew enters 3rd day

Pakistan recovers more cargo plane debris from Arabian Sea as search for missing crew enters 3rd day

Summary

Pakistan Navy teams have found more pieces of a cargo plane that crashed into the Arabian Sea. The search for the five missing crew members is ongoing, with rescue teams working in difficult sea conditions. Investigators will study the recovered wreckage to determine the cause of the crash.

Key Facts

  • The cargo plane, operated by private airline K2 Airways, disappeared from radar late Tuesday.
  • The plane was flying from Sharjah in the UAE to Karachi, Pakistan.
  • The crew reported a navigation system problem before the crash.
  • Wreckage was first found Wednesday about 60 miles off the coast near Ormara, Balochistan.
  • The main body of the plane and all five crew members are still missing.
  • Pakistan Navy and Maritime Security Agency are using ships and aircraft in the search.
  • The search is hindered by rough seas, strong winds, and shifting currents.
  • Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered full efforts to locate the crew.
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Bomb attacks rattle Damascus but for most Syrians, life goes on

Bomb attacks rattle Damascus but for most Syrians, life goes on

Summary

Damascus, the capital of Syria, experienced three bomb attacks in early July 2026, killing at least 11 people and injuring many more. Syrian authorities arrested a group linked to ISIS believed to be responsible for the attacks, which targeted symbolic places to disrupt the city's sense of safety.

Key Facts

  • On July 2, a bomb exploded at a café near Damascus’s Justice Palace, killing at least 10 people.
  • Two more bombs went off on July 7 near the Four Seasons Hotel, injuring 36 and killing one person.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron was staying at the Four Seasons Hotel during the attacks.
  • Syrian police arrested an ISIS-linked group they said carried out the explosions.
  • No group officially claimed responsibility for the bombings.
  • These attacks aim to unsettle residents by targeting important locations at sensitive times.
  • Syria’s government has faced major security challenges since President al-Assad’s fall in December 2024.
  • Despite some progress in Damascus, including arrests of militants, threats still persist with underground networks active.
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Weather tracker: Typhoon leaves people stranded on rooftops in China

Weather tracker: Typhoon leaves people stranded on rooftops in China

Summary

Typhoon Maysak hit southern and central China, causing heavy rain, floods, and strong winds. The storm led to deaths, injuries, damaged homes, and rare tornadoes in the central region. Nearby India experienced heavy rainfall causing building collapses and fatalities, while the South Atlantic island Tristan da Cunha faced a strong winter storm with very high winds.

Key Facts

  • Typhoon Maysak brought up to 280mm of rain in 12 hours in Guangxi, China.
  • Flooding stranded many people on rooftops in Nanning and nearby areas.
  • Hundreds of snakes, including cobras, escaped from flooded farms during the typhoon.
  • Two tornadoes formed in central China when warm and cold air met, causing damage and injuries.
  • Official reports list at least 11 deaths and over 300 injuries from the typhoon in China.
  • Mumbai, India, had over 300mm of rain in one day and more than 850mm in four days, causing buildings to collapse and killing at least 13 people.
  • Tristan da Cunha island experienced a winter storm with winds up to 124 mph, damaging roofs but causing no deaths.
  • The island’s volcano influences strong wind gusts by creating a weather effect called downslope winds.
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How cows are helping one of Britain's rarest butterflies

How cows are helping one of Britain's rarest butterflies

Summary

The high brown fritillary butterfly, one of Britain’s rarest butterflies, has declined by 62% since 1970 due to its special habitat needs. Volunteers in Wales are helping the butterfly by managing the land with cows that graze and trample bracken, creating the right conditions for the butterfly’s survival.

Key Facts

  • The high brown fritillary butterfly has orange and black wings and has become very rare in Britain.
  • Its numbers have dropped by 62% since 1970.
  • The butterfly needs a mix of bracken (a type of fern) and common dog violet plants to survive.
  • Too much bracken stops dog violets from growing, but some bracken trimmed down helps warm the ground for caterpillars.
  • Volunteers have worked for decades to manage land at Old Castle Down in the Vale of Glamorgan to protect the butterfly.
  • For the past three years, cows have grazed on the land to help control the bracken by trampling it without destroying it.
  • Solar-powered collars on cows help keep them within the common land without needing fences.
  • The volunteer group grew from 2 to over 40 people and combines conservation work with social activities.
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Labour under Burnham will be faster and bolder, says minister

Labour under Burnham will be faster and bolder, says minister

Summary

Lisa Nandy, a Culture Secretary and Labour MP, says that under Andy Burnham’s leadership, the Labour Party will act faster and with bolder ideas. Burnham is expected to become the next Labour leader and prime minister on July 20, with strong support from Labour MPs and no serious challenger.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham has been nominated by 322 Labour MPs to be the next leader.
  • Burnham is currently the only declared candidate and is expected to be confirmed leader next week.
  • He is set to become prime minister on July 20.
  • Lisa Nandy supports Burnham’s plan to create a "No 10 North" office in Manchester to balance government focus across the country.
  • Nandy believes Burnham will bring faster and bolder changes than before.
  • Labour’s recent efforts include reducing NHS waiting times and helping young people, but these have not fully connected with the public.
  • Nandy says a leadership contest is unnecessary and could harm Labour’s goal to focus on the country’s needs.
  • Burnham has not yet offered jobs to current cabinet members, including Nandy.
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Why Putin May Be Eyeing Another Mobilization | Opinion

Why Putin May Be Eyeing Another Mobilization | Opinion

Summary

Russia may be planning another military draft to support its war in Ukraine, following heavy losses and difficulties maintaining troop numbers. The Russian government is preparing training and mobilization systems while facing significant challenges from Ukrainian attacks on its infrastructure.

Key Facts

  • In September 2022, Russia launched a partial military draft, leading to 800,000 to 1 million people leaving the country.
  • Many young and educated Russians left, causing a brain drain in fields like science and technology.
  • Russia has avoided a full draft since then, relying on foreign and contract soldiers to fight in Ukraine.
  • Russia is recruiting about 30,000 new soldiers monthly with large signing bonuses, but many recruits have very short survival times.
  • Ukrainian drone strikes recently damaged Russian energy infrastructure, causing fuel shortages and export limits.
  • Russia is strengthening air defenses but still faces serious military and economic challenges.
  • Russian officials are preparing for a possible new draft after the 2026 parliamentary elections.
  • Measures include digital summons and travel bans to prevent those drafted from leaving Russia.
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