A review by intelligence experts ranked MI6 as the most powerful foreign intelligence service in Europe, ahead of France and the Netherlands. The ranking praised MI6’s ability to recruit important informants and gather information from countries like Russia and China.
Key Facts
MI6 scored 251 points in a peer review by 60 intelligence professionals from 25 countries.
France’s intelligence agency (DGSE) ranked second with 169 points, noted for its global reach and operations.
The Netherlands, Ukraine, and Germany completed the top five services in Europe.
Slovakia’s intelligence service was rated the lowest among those surveyed.
The review was conducted by French magazine L’Express, which asked intelligence people to rate Western-allied services.
MI6 was recognized for early warnings to Ukraine about the Russian invasion in 2022 and strong support for Kyiv.
Blaise Metreweli became the first woman to lead MI6 last year.
French DGSE is known for counter-terrorism and covert operations, including targeted killings ordered by former President François Hollande.
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Young women who took part in anti-government protests in India faced online abuse and threats after sharing videos and posts on social media. These women, involved in a youth movement called the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), say they suffered harassment including rape threats and hateful messages following the demonstrations.
Key Facts
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is a youth-led group opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
The movement used social media like Instagram to spread protest content such as memes and videos.
On July 20, police used tear gas and baton charges to stop protesters marching to the Indian parliament, injuring many.
Some protesters, especially women, received online abuse, including threats and doctored photos.
Abuse included “slut-shaming” and rape threats targeted mainly at women participating in the protests.
Many affected women deleted posts, locked social media accounts, and stopped responding to unknown contacts to avoid harassment.
Some incidents were reported to police and discussed in media debates.
The online abuse has caused fear and anxiety among young female protesters, affecting their safety at protests and online.
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A program in Charlotte, North Carolina, is using art activities to help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation. This approach suggests that engaging with the arts can support emotional and social well-being instead of relying only on medicine.
Key Facts
The program is based in Charlotte, North Carolina.
It uses art as a way to fight loneliness and social isolation.
The program encourages people to participate in creative activities.
This approach is part of a larger conversation about art and health.
The idea is to use art as an alternative or supplement to medical treatments.
The topic was reported by Paul Solman.
The coverage is part of a series called CANVAS, focusing on art and health.
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Annie Jacobsen wrote a new book called "Biological War: A Scenario" about the danger of a man-made germ causing a national security crisis. Journalist Geoff Bennett talked with her on a PBS podcast about how ready the United States is to handle such biological threats.
Key Facts
Annie Jacobsen is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist.
Her book explores the possibility of a biological attack instead of traditional weapons like missiles or bombs.
The book is called "Biological War: A Scenario."
Geoff Bennett interviewed Jacobsen on the PBS podcast "Settle In."
The discussion focused on America’s preparedness for biological threats.
The topic relates to national security and potential future dangers from engineered pathogens.
The conversation aims to raise awareness about biological warfare risks.
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Six experienced Nepali mountain guides, including well-known climber Nirmal Purja, died in an avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak. These guides were recognized for their extraordinary achievements on the world’s highest mountains and helped raise global respect for Nepali Sherpas. Their deaths are a major loss to Nepal’s mountaineering community.
Key Facts
Six Nepali mountain guides died in an avalanche on Broad Peak, the world’s 12th highest mountain.
Nirmal Purja, famous for climbing the 14 highest peaks in about six months, was among those killed.
Kili Pemba Sherpa had completed the "Grand Slam" by climbing all 14 eight-thousanders and helped make the first winter ascent of K2.
Pur Bahadur Gurung was one of about 100 Nepali guides certified by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association.
The group’s achievements included climbing mountains without extra oxygen and helping disabled climbers reach Everest’s summit.
Other guides killed were Gyaljen Sherpa, Nima Sherpa, and Nawang Thindu Sherpa, each known for climbing multiple high peaks.
Nepal’s mountain guides often lead climbs in Nepal during spring and move to Pakistan’s peaks in summer monsoon season.
The deaths highlight the important role and talent of Nepali Sherpas in global mountain climbing.
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A BBC investigation found that two drugs—fenbendazole (an animal dewormer) and ivermectin (used to treat scabies)—are being sold as unproven cancer treatments in the UK. These medicines are not approved for cancer, and experts warn they could harm patients or delay proper medical care.
Key Facts
Fenbendazole is a drug for animals to remove parasites and is not licensed for human use in the UK.
Ivermectin is a prescription medicine for humans, used to treat scabies, but is not approved for cancer treatment.
A stairlift salesman in south Wales sold these drugs claiming they could shrink tumors.
The BBC undercover reporter bought fenbendazole and ivermectin from this salesman, who charged £100 for 2–3 months’ supply.
These drugs were also found for sale on Amazon but were removed after the BBC alerted the company.
Macmillan Cancer Support said there is no clinical proof these drugs fight cancer and expressed concern about vulnerable patients.
Videos and social media posts promote these drugs as cancer cures, including claims by actor Mel Gibson about his friends’ recoveries.
Doctors warn that using these unproven treatments could delay or harm standard cancer care.
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A couple staying at a Travelodge hotel in Dundee woke up to find a shirtless man in their room who claimed it was his room. The hotel admitted it did not follow its security procedures properly and apologized. This incident is part of a series of reported security problems at Travelodge hotels.
Key Facts
Kim Hutchison and Harry Grieve were staying at a Travelodge in Dundee when a man entered their room by mistake.
The man was wearing only shorts and said he believed the room was his.
The couple argued with the man for about a minute before he left.
Travelodge apologized and said their security rules were not properly followed.
Police were called to the hotel but no arrests were made in this case.
The couple received a refund and a £100 voucher from Travelodge but cut their visit short due to the incident.
Earlier in the year, a man was jailed for sexually assaulting a woman after being given her room key at a different Travelodge.
Travelodge is investigating multiple reports of strangers entering guests’ rooms.
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Large wildfires in Spokane, Washington have destroyed over 700 homes and forced more than 60,000 people to evacuate. Residents described sudden smoke, little warning, and frightening escapes as the fires grew quickly over the weekend.
Key Facts
Three wildfires swept through the Spokane area, burning over 10,000 acres.
More than 700 homes and buildings were destroyed by the fires.
Over 60,000 people had to leave their homes due to evacuations.
A suspect has been arrested on suspicion of starting the largest fire by arson.
Some residents received little or no warning before the fires reached their neighborhoods.
People reported seeing heavy smoke close to their homes and struggling to escape through thick smoke.
No deaths have been reported so far from these wildfires.
Families described the emotional impact of losing not just homes, but their personal belongings.
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The US has canceled the visa of Brazil's ambassador to Washington as relations between the two countries worsen. This move follows Brazil’s refusal to grant visas to two US officials who planned to visit Brazil, with tensions rising ahead of Brazil's elections.
Key Facts
The US revoked the visa of Brazil’s ambassador to the United States.
Brazil denied visas to two US State Department officials planned to visit in late July.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva accused the US officials of trying to interfere in Brazil’s elections.
The US called Brazil’s accusation “baseless.”
The visa cancellation does not mean the Brazilian ambassador must leave the US.
Brazil blocked US officials Riley M Barnes and Samuel Samson, who oversee democracy and human rights issues.
Brazil also delayed approval of President Donald Trump’s chosen US ambassador to Brazil, Daniel Perez.
Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court says the country’s electronic voting system is secure and refutes claims of fraud made by Flávio Bolsonaro.
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More than 72 migrants died while trying to enter Ceuta, a Spanish city in North Africa. Soon after, the situation became a political issue, with different groups using the event to push their messages. Experts say the consequences of this event could affect countries beyond Spain.
Key Facts
Over 72 migrants died attempting to cross into Ceuta.
Ceuta is a Spanish city located on the North African coast.
The migrant deaths quickly became a topic of political debate.
Various groups used the tragedy to support their political views.
Analysts believe the effects of the crisis may spread beyond Spain.
The event highlights ongoing challenges related to migration and borders.
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An Indian-flagged ship, the MSV Faize Noore Oliya, was hit by a projectile and sank off Yemen's coast. All 14 people onboard, mostly Indian nationals, were rescued safely. The attack happened amid rising tensions and multiple assaults on ships in the Red Sea, a vital shipping route.
Key Facts
The ship named MSV Faize Noore Oliya was struck and sank near Yemen.
13 of the 14 crew members were Indian citizens; all were rescued safely.
India's Shipping Minister condemned the attack and promised to protect seafarers in the area.
The attacker is unknown, but Yemen’s recognized government blamed Iran-backed Houthi fighters.
The Red Sea has become a risky route for oil tankers since Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz in February.
The Houthis declared a blockade on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea ports in July.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency reported several recent attacks on ships there.
The US and Iran have had recent talks about reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but tensions remain high.
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A funeral was held in Iran for a couple and their two-year-old child who died in a recent US strike on Qeshm Island. Iranian officials, including Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said the United States would face consequences for the attack.
Key Facts
A US strike took place on Iran’s Qeshm Island last week.
A couple and their two-year-old child were killed in the strike.
Iran held a funeral for the victims.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s chief negotiator and parliament speaker, spoke at the funeral.
Ghalibaf said the US would “pay the price” for the deaths.
The incident increased tensions between the US and Iran.
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The Trump administration canceled the visa of Brazil's ambassador to the U.S. after Brazil denied visas to two American diplomats and delayed approval of President Trump's nominee for ambassador to Brazil. This action is a retaliation aimed at encouraging Brazil to accept the U.S. ambassador pick and resume normal diplomatic relations.
Key Facts
The Trump administration revoked Brazil's ambassador Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti's visa as a reciprocal response.
Brazil previously denied visas to two U.S. diplomats planning to visit before Brazil’s elections.
The visa revocation was delayed to give Brazil time to reverse its decisions but was enacted after no change occurred.
Brazil has stalled the approval of Danny Perez, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Brazil.
The Brazilian ambassador is not being expelled and could resume duties if Brazil accepts Perez.
The U.S. accuses Brazil of unfair trade practices and failing to stop forced labor, leading to higher tariffs on Brazilian exports.
The Trump administration labeled Brazil’s two largest drug gangs as foreign terrorist groups, a move opposed by Brazil’s President Lula.
Brazil’s upcoming election includes President Lula and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who has ties to the Trump administration.
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Heavy monsoon rains caused severe flooding in Assam, India. The floods have forced many villagers to live in temporary shelters and use rafts to move their belongings.
Key Facts
Assam, a state in India, faced widespread flooding due to monsoon rains.
Many homes and farmland were covered with water.
Villagers are using rafts to transport their belongings.
Flood victims are currently living in makeshift shelters.
The death toll from the flooding has reached 87 people.
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Six years after the big explosion at Beirut’s port, families of the victims are still waiting for justice. They want the truth about what happened and for those responsible to be held accountable.
Key Facts
The Beirut port blast happened six years ago.
Many people died and were affected by the explosion.
Families of the victims have been asking for justice.
There have been promises that an official charge (indictment) will happen soon.
Despite promises, no final justice or blame has been clearly established yet.
The families feel their grief has not been resolved because justice has been delayed.
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The United States and Iran, through Oman’s mediation, are close to reaching an agreement to reopen and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route. Talks have been described as positive, with hopes of finalizing a deal soon, while broader diplomatic efforts continue in the region to reduce tensions.
Key Facts
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said progress has been made in talks involving Oman and Iran about the Strait of Hormuz.
The US Treasury Secretary said a deal could be reached very soon, possibly within a day or two.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson described the talks as positive but noted some differences remain.
The discussions focus on creating safe shipping lanes for boats passing through the strategic waterway.
Oman is acting as the mediator; the US is involved but Iran negotiates directly with Oman, not the US.
Other regional diplomacy is ongoing, including talks between US President Donald Trump and Qatar’s Emir, as well as potential talks involving Pakistan and Iran.
Security issues remain, highlighted by an Indian cargo ship sinking near Yemen and ongoing conflicts involving Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthis.
Separate US-mediated negotiations are underway between Israel and Lebanon concerning border security and disarmament.
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A common type of plastic called polyethylene, used in many food packages, may contribute to fatty liver disease according to new research. The study found that polyethylene alone increased signs of the disease in mice and worsened it when combined with a high-fat, high-sugar diet.
Key Facts
Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics worldwide, often found in food packaging.
Researchers at Texas A&M University studied its effects on fatty liver disease.
Fatty liver disease happens when too much fat builds up in liver cells.
Exposure to polyethylene increased disease markers in mice.
The disease worsened more when mice ate a diet similar to a typical Western diet (high in fat and sugar).
Scientists used a technique called spatial transcriptomics to see how genes behaved in the liver tissue.
They found proteins and genes related to fat production and tissue repair were involved in the response to polyethylene.
Experts say the results are important but caution that more research is needed to know if the same effects happen in humans.
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Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, former FIFA vice president and head of the Jordanian football federation, accused FIFA, led by President Gianni Infantino, of withholding prize money owed to Jordan for reaching the final of the FIFA Arab Cup. Prince Ali called this withholding of funds a form of blackmail linked to political pressure for endorsement during the World Cup.
Key Facts
Prince Ali says Jordan has not received $4.2 million prize money for being runners-up in the 2023 FIFA Arab Cup.
He claims FIFA leadership, under President Infantino, used the unpaid money as leverage to seek political support.
During the World Cup, Prince Ali was told endorsing Infantino would help Jordan’s football association financially.
Prince Ali and Jordan refused to endorse Infantino, citing ethical reasons and rejecting what they call blackmail.
Infantino faces criticism and pressure over a failed plan to sell future World Cup profits to investors.
The controversial plan involved investors led by Joshua Kushner and was rejected by many FIFA members.
UEFA and other soccer groups are seeking alternatives to Infantino’s leadership amid this controversy.
Prince Ali served on FIFA’s executive committee and ran for FIFA president in 2016, finishing third.
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The Trump administration canceled the visa of Brazil’s ambassador to the U.S. in response to Brazil denying visas to two American diplomats and delaying approval of President Trump’s ambassador nominee to Brazil. The U.S. says Brazil’s actions were unfair, but the visa can be reinstated if Brazil agrees to accept Trump’s ambassador choice.
Key Facts
The Trump administration revoked the visa of Brazil’s ambassador, Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti.
Brazil had denied visas to two American diplomats who planned to visit before Brazil’s elections.
Brazil also delayed approving Danny Perez, Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Brazil.
The U.S. decision was meant to be a reciprocal action, responding to Brazil’s earlier moves.
Brazil’s ambassador is not being forced to leave the U.S. and may continue her duties if Brazil approves Perez.
Brazil’s election will be held on October 4, with President Lula da Silva running for reelection against Senator Flávio Bolsonaro.
The Trump administration has other tensions with Brazil, including labeling major Brazilian drug gangs as terrorist groups.
Recently, the U.S. raised tariffs on many Brazilian exports, citing concerns about unfair competition and forced labor, claims Brazil denies.
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Russia and Ukraine accused each other of drone attacks that killed five people in their own countries. The conflict has involved strikes on civilians and infrastructure, raising concerns about humanitarian law and global food security.
Key Facts
Both Russia and Ukraine reported five civilian deaths from drone attacks on the same day.
Ukraine has used long-range drones to strike inside Russia, targeting oil and storage facilities.
More than 16,000 civilians have died in Ukraine since the war started, mostly in Ukrainian-controlled areas.
The United Nations and UNICEF have called for protection of children amid rising civilian casualties.
A Russian drone reportedly attacked a street vendor in Kherson, Ukraine, injuring him.
Drone attacks have killed 967 people and injured nearly 7,000 in Ukraine, including children.
A drone strike in the Russian Black Sea resort Arkhipo-Osipovka killed seven people, including four children.
Ukrainian drones caused fires and damage near Moscow and St. Petersburg, including attacks on warehouses.
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