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Watch: Moment rare tornado lashes central Chinese cities

Watch: Moment rare tornado lashes central Chinese cities

July 07, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A rare tornado hit cities in central China’s Hubei province, causing severe damage. At least 11 people died, over 300 were injured, and thousands of buildings were damaged as rescue efforts continue.

Key Facts

  • The tornado occurred in Hubei province, affecting the cities of Ezhou and Huanggang.
  • At least 11 people have died due to the severe thunderstorms and tornado.
  • More than 300 people were injured during the storm.
  • Thousands of buildings were damaged in the affected areas.
  • Residents reported flying debris and broken glass causing injuries.
  • Tornadoes are rare in this region; the last one was reported in 2021.
  • Local authorities have started rescue and relief operations.
  • The event followed severe thunderstorms spreading across the region.
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Militants kill 9 police officers in attack on post in southwest Pakistan

Militants kill 9 police officers in attack on post in southwest Pakistan

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Dozens of militants attacked a police post in southwestern Pakistan’s Balochistan province, killing nine police officers and injuring others. Security forces later killed 15 militants in a follow-up operation, and the attackers also briefly abducted eight officers who were later freed.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened in Ziarat district, a remote area in Balochistan province.
  • Nine police officers were killed and several were wounded in the gunbattle.
  • Eight police officers were abducted but later rescued by security forces.
  • Security forces killed 15 militants in a clearing operation after the attack.
  • No group has claimed responsibility, but suspicion falls on the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).
  • The BLA recently claimed a separate suicide attack in Jiwani town, also in Balochistan.
  • The Pakistani Interior Minister accused Indian-backed militants but offered no proof.
  • Balochistan has ongoing violence from separatist groups like the BLA and attacks from the Pakistani Taliban (TTP).
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AP News
Severe storms in China bring tornadoes and landslides that have killed 15 people

Severe storms in China bring tornadoes and landslides that have killed 15 people

July 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Severe storms, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, heavy rains, and flooding, struck parts of China, killing at least 15 people and injuring hundreds. Thousands of people were evacuated, and emergency responders continue rescue efforts, with Chinese leader Xi Jinping urging all-out action.

Key Facts

  • At least 15 people died due to severe storms in China.
  • In Hubei province, thunderstorms and strong winds killed 11 and injured 331 people.
  • Tornadoes were reported in some areas on Monday.
  • About 4,800 houses were damaged and 22 collapsed in Hubei.
  • In Guangxi region, Typhoon Maysak caused flooding that killed 4 people and forced 50,000 evacuations; 8 remain missing.
  • A reservoir dam burst in Guangxi after heavy rains, worsening flooding.
  • A landslide in Gansu province buried 33 people; 17 were rescued.
  • Xi Jinping called for maximum rescue efforts and prevention of further disasters.
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Guardian World
Five charged in Liberia after more than 200kg of cocaine seized in drug bust

Five charged in Liberia after more than 200kg of cocaine seized in drug bust

July 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Liberian authorities charged five people after seizing over 200 kilograms of cocaine disguised as seasoning cubes at Monrovia’s international airport. The drugs were worth about $19 million, and the suspects face charges related to drug trafficking and conspiracy. The bust highlights West Africa’s role as a key area for drug smuggling between South America and Europe.

Key Facts

  • Police found more than 200 kg of cocaine falsely declared as Maggi seasoning cubes on June 8 at Monrovia airport.
  • The shipment’s estimated value is $19 million (about £14.2 million).
  • Five suspects have been charged with transportation, possession, trafficking of drugs, and conspiracy.
  • The main suspect, an operations manager at the logistics company handling the shipment, is in custody.
  • Arrest warrants will be issued through Interpol for suspects still at large.
  • Liberia’s president ordered a joint police and anti-drug agency investigation after the seizure.
  • Similar large drug shipments have been seized in Liberia and nearby Sierra Leone before.
  • West Africa is a known transit region for drug routes between South America and Europe.
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Guardian World
India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations

India's landmark Ram temple overhauls board after alleged theft of donations

July 07, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

The trust managing the Ram temple in Ayodhya has changed its leaders after claims that donations were stolen. Police arrested several people following an investigation into the missing money. The temple is a major religious site opened in January 2024 and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Key Facts

  • The Ram temple is located in Ayodhya, India, and opened in January 2024.
  • It is managed by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
  • Allegations surfaced that tens of millions of rupees in donations were stolen.
  • The general secretary Champat Rai resigned and was replaced by Krishna Mohan as interim leader.
  • Police arrested eight people connected to the alleged theft after an investigation by a special team.
  • The trust said it received about 5.82 billion rupees (around $61 million) in donations until March 2026.
  • A former accounts supervisor raised concerns and was dismissed, leading to public and political attention.
  • The trust emphasized its concern for the damage to the temple’s reputation and asked for strict action against those involved.
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BBC World
Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong set for September sentencing in second national security case

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong set for September sentencing in second national security case

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong will be sentenced in September for a second case under a national security law imposed by Beijing. He is accused of working with others to ask foreign countries to take hostile actions against Hong Kong or China.

Key Facts

  • Joshua Wong is a pro-democracy activist from Hong Kong.
  • He was arrested in June 2025 on suspicion of trying to collaborate with foreign forces against national security.
  • This is his second case under Hong Kong’s national security law, introduced in 2020.
  • The alleged offense involves asking foreign countries or groups to impose sanctions or blockades on Hong Kong or China during July-November 2020.
  • If found guilty, Wong could face 3 to 10 years in prison, or life if the case is very serious.
  • Wong previously pleaded guilty in a related case and was sentenced to over four years in prison.
  • In 2019, Wong helped seek overseas support during large pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.
  • Hong Kong authorities offer a reward of 1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to arrests of other overseas activists like Nathan Law.
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South Korean law targeting ‘fake news’ takes effect as journalists’ groups raise concerns

South Korean law targeting ‘fake news’ takes effect as journalists’ groups raise concerns

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

South Korea has started enforcing a new law that punishes news outlets and social media users for spreading false information. Journalists and civil rights groups worry the law is unclear and could stop people from freely criticizing the government or big companies.

Key Facts

  • The law allows courts to demand damages up to five times the losses caused by spreading false or manipulated information.
  • Social media influencers and platforms with over 1 million daily users must remove false content or suspend users when notified.
  • Repeat offenders spreading confirmed false information can face fines up to 1 billion won (about $656,000).
  • The law was passed mainly by the liberal Democratic Party, with opposition from conservatives.
  • Supporters say the law is needed to fight fake news that divides society and spreads hate.
  • Journalists’ groups warn the law could scare media and citizens from speaking openly about those in power.
  • The law comes after political turmoil involving former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached and sentenced for rebellion.
  • Yoon promoted election fraud claims online, deepening political division in South Korea.
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AP News
France’s Court of Appeal to rule on Le Pen conviction – what it’s all about

France’s Court of Appeal to rule on Le Pen conviction – what it’s all about

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

France’s appeal court will decide whether Marine Le Pen and her party misused European Parliament funds between 2004 and 2016. If her conviction is upheld, Le Pen faces a five-year ban from holding office and may be unable to run in the 2027 presidential election.

Key Facts

  • Marine Le Pen was convicted in 2025 for misusing 2.9 million euros of EU Parliament funds intended for parliamentary assistants.
  • The National Rally party was fined 2 million euros, with half of the fine suspended.
  • Le Pen received a five-year ban from elected office and a two-year house arrest sentence with an electronic bracelet.
  • The appeal court’s ruling on July 7 will decide if her conviction and sentence stand or are changed.
  • If the ban is confirmed, she cannot run in France’s April 2027 presidential election.
  • Le Pen denies the accusations, claiming the money was used properly.
  • If banned, her party’s young leader Jordan Bardella is likely to run instead.
  • Le Pen can still appeal to France’s highest court, the Court of Cassation, after the appeal court’s decision.
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Al Jazeera
Live: French far-right leader Marine Le Pen faces key ruling in race for president

Live: French far-right leader Marine Le Pen faces key ruling in race for president

July 07, 2026 • France24

Summary

Marine Le Pen, a far-right French politician, is awaiting a crucial court decision that will decide if she can run in the 2027 French presidential election. She is appealing a ruling that found her guilty of misusing European Parliament funds to pay party employees, which could ban her from running for public office.

Key Facts

  • Marine Le Pen faces a Paris appeals court ruling on charges of misusing EU parliamentary funds.
  • The case involves over €4 million used improperly to pay political party workers.
  • In 2025, Le Pen was sentenced to four years in prison (two suspended) and banned from running for office for five years.
  • Le Pen denies wrongdoing but expressed some regret during her appeals trial.
  • Jordan Bardella, leader of Le Pen’s party, National Rally, supports her and says he is ready to run if Le Pen is banned.
  • The court decision will affect who can run against President Emmanuel Macron in the 2027 election.
  • Le Pen’s misuse of funds is known as the “fake jobs scandal.”
  • Bardella has pledged loyalty to Le Pen and promises to support her leadership regardless of the verdict.
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France24
NATO summit begins: Who is attending and what is at stake?

NATO summit begins: Who is attending and what is at stake?

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

NATO leaders are meeting in Ankara, Turkey, to discuss defence spending and military capabilities. President Donald Trump is pressing member countries to increase their budgets, while Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy seeks more military support amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Key Facts

  • The NATO summit in Ankara includes leaders from all 32 NATO member states plus heads of state from Ukraine and South Korea.
  • Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Gulf states affected by the US-Israel-Iran conflict are also participating with officials.
  • NATO members agreed last year to raise defence spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, including 3.5% on military needs.
  • President Trump has criticized NATO members for not spending enough and wants them to share defence costs more fairly.
  • European countries are expected to announce billions in new military contracts in response to pressure on defence budgets.
  • Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy is meeting President Trump to request additional Patriot missile defence systems to protect against Russian attacks.
  • Experts say increased spending will take years to translate into stronger military abilities.
  • Turkey has increased its defence spending and become a major military exporter within NATO.
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Al Jazeera
China sentences former local official to death in $324m corruption case

China sentences former local official to death in $324m corruption case

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A Chinese court sentenced Yang Youlin, a former senior official in Nanjing, to death for accepting over 2.2 billion yuan ($324 million) in bribes from 1993 to 2023. Yang was also found guilty of embezzlement, offering bribes, misuse of public funds, abusing power, and money laundering.

Key Facts

  • Yang Youlin served in various government roles in Nanjing between 1993 and 2023.
  • He accepted bribes totaling more than 2.2 billion yuan ($324 million) in money and property.
  • The bribes were given to help with projects, business deals, land grants, and working capital.
  • Yang was convicted of multiple crimes including corruption, embezzlement, and money laundering.
  • The court publicly showed Yang expressing guilt and remorse during the trial.
  • Yang’s personal property will be seized to recover the bribed money.
  • This case was part of President Xi Jinping’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign.
  • Several other Chinese officials have recently faced death sentences for corruption.
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Al Jazeera
Landslides in Bangladesh kill at least 8 Rohingya refugees

Landslides in Bangladesh kill at least 8 Rohingya refugees

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Heavy monsoon rains caused landslides in southeastern Bangladesh, killing at least eight Rohingya refugees, including five children. The landslides destroyed makeshift homes on hillsides in refugee camps, leading authorities to relocate about 1,000 people to safer areas.

Key Facts

  • At least eight Rohingya refugees died due to landslides caused by heavy rain.
  • Five of the victims were children.
  • The landslides happened between Sunday night and Monday morning.
  • Slopes softened by rain caused hills to collapse, burying homes under mud and debris.
  • Rescue teams recovered the bodies, which were given to families by local leaders and police.
  • Around 1,000 refugees have been moved from dangerous hill areas.
  • The weather office predicts more rain in the coming days.
  • Over 1 million Rohingya refugees live in camps in Bangladesh after fleeing Myanmar.
  • Fighting in Myanmar’s Rakhine state raises fears of more refugees arriving in Bangladesh.
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Oil tanker hit by 'unknown projectile' off Omani coast near Strait of Hormuz

Oil tanker hit by 'unknown projectile' off Omani coast near Strait of Hormuz

July 07, 2026 • France24

Summary

An oil tanker was hit by an unknown projectile near the coast of Oman, close to the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire but no reported casualties or environmental damage. The incident occurred in a key global energy shipping route amid ongoing tensions and recent efforts between the U.S. and Iran to maintain peace.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened eight nautical miles east of Limah, Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The vessel was hit on the port (left) side and caught fire.
  • No casualties or environmental damage were reported.
  • UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) advised ships to be cautious and report suspicious activity.
  • U.S. officials told Axios that Iran may have fired missiles at at least two commercial ships, but this is unconfirmed by other sources.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping route for oil, with about 20 million barrels of crude oil passing daily in 2024.
  • The area has seen tension before, including blockades and attacks during a Middle East conflict involving Iran.
  • Despite a recent agreement between the U.S. and Iran to secure the route, Iran still restricts vessel movement around its coastline.
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France24
Palestine weekly: One thousand days of genocide in Gaza

Palestine weekly: One thousand days of genocide in Gaza

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The conflict in Gaza has reached 1,000 days, with most of the area heavily damaged and tens of thousands of deaths reported. Recently, Gaza’s Hamas government announced it would resign and transfer power to a technocratic committee as part of a U.S.-led plan to rebuild the region.

Key Facts

  • Over 90% of Gaza has been destroyed during the conflict.
  • Since October 2023, more than 73,000 people in Gaza have died, including many civilians.
  • Israeli forces recently killed at least 10 Palestinians, including a child, in airstrikes.
  • Medical supplies are scarce, and over 20,000 patients are waiting to leave Gaza for treatment.
  • Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, Gaza hospital director, has been imprisoned by Israel for over 555 days and is in poor health.
  • The UN called for Dr. Abu Safiya’s immediate release, citing human rights violations.
  • Gaza’s Hamas government resigned and plans to transfer control to a committee appointed by a U.S.-led peace board.
  • Israel approved new settlement construction in the occupied West Bank and laid a foundation stone for a heritage center on a former Palestinian airport site.
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Al Jazeera
Tuesday briefing: What challenges would Ed Miliband face as chancellor?

Tuesday briefing: What challenges would Ed Miliband face as chancellor?

July 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ed Miliband is a leading candidate to become the UK chancellor if Andy Burnham becomes prime minister. The Treasury, the UK government’s finance department, is very powerful and has a tradition of strict rules on spending and budgets. Experts say someone in this role should be ready to change how the Treasury works for long-term progress.

Key Facts

  • Ed Miliband is seen as the likely choice for chancellor under Andy Burnham’s leadership.
  • The Treasury manages the UK’s budget and economic planning and is known for strict financial rules.
  • Some experts believe the Treasury should focus more on long-term growth than just short-term budget control.
  • Other potential chancellor candidates include Shabana Mahmood, Pat McFadden, and Yvette Cooper.
  • Andy Burnham prefers direct communication with the public, as seen in his Reddit AMA sessions.
  • Nigel Farage was reported to attend party events with a convicted fraudster, raising questions about his role.
  • President Donald Trump said he asked FIFA to review a red card shown to a USA soccer player but denied pressuring the decision.
  • A Jamaican man may be deported from the UK under new immigration rules, marking an early case since new laws passed.
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Guardian World
Marine Le Pen’s 2027 bid for French presidency is at stake in Paris court ruling

Marine Le Pen’s 2027 bid for French presidency is at stake in Paris court ruling

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Marine Le Pen, the leader of France's far-right National Rally party, faces a court decision that could stop her from running in the 2027 presidential election. She was convicted of misusing European Parliament funds, and if the appeals court upholds the conviction and ban, her political career might be blocked, with her party possibly choosing Jordan Bardella as her replacement.

Key Facts

  • Marine Le Pen and other National Rally members were found guilty of illegally using EU Parliament funds from 2004 to 2016.
  • The lower court gave Le Pen a suspended prison sentence and a five-year ban on holding elected office.
  • The Paris appeals court is reviewing whether Le Pen can run for president in 2027.
  • If Le Pen is barred, her party would likely select Jordan Bardella, 30, as the presidential candidate.
  • Le Pen denies wrongdoing and is appealing to remain eligible for a fourth presidential run.
  • President Emmanuel Macron cannot run for a third consecutive term in 2027 due to constitutional limits.
  • The ruling could affect the political balance in France and the European Union, given Le Pen’s critical stance on the EU.
  • The appeals court verdict is expected to take several hours to be announced.
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AP News
NATO readies for a ‘big reveal’ on arms deals to prove its firepower to Trump

NATO readies for a ‘big reveal’ on arms deals to prove its firepower to Trump

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

NATO is holding a summit in Ankara, Turkey, where it will announce new military projects worth billions of dollars. The goal is to show U.S. President Donald Trump that European allies are increasing defense spending and building real military power, addressing his past concerns about NATO’s capabilities and commitment.

Key Facts

  • The NATO summit in Ankara is a two-day meeting focused on the alliance’s future.
  • NATO plans to reveal new defense contracts worth tens of billions of dollars, many involving U.S. defense companies.
  • President Trump has criticized NATO as weak and too dependent on American arms and leadership.
  • NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted $1.2 trillion spent on defense by European allies and Canada since 2017.
  • Trump remains unhappy with some NATO members refusing to join the Iran war, expressing a desire for loyalty over money.
  • One major contract expected is the replacement of NATO’s old surveillance planes, some of which are nearly 50 years old.
  • Some military projects will be funded through an EU-backed loan system raising up to $170 billion for defense.
  • NATO itself does not own weapons; military equipment belongs to its 32 member countries.
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Yacht owners and public housing residents once shared Venezuela’s coast. Now they share its ruin

Yacht owners and public housing residents once shared Venezuela’s coast. Now they share its ruin

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A powerful earthquake in Venezuela’s coastal town of Caraballeda destroyed homes belonging to both wealthy yacht owners and lower-income public housing residents. The disaster left about 17,000 people homeless and caused over 3,500 deaths. Survivors now face uncertainty about where they will live as the government struggles to respond.

Key Facts

  • Caraballeda is a coastal town in Venezuela where rich and poor once lived side by side.
  • A strong earthquake on June 24, 2026, flattened many homes within seconds.
  • Official death toll from the earthquake is over 3,500 people.
  • Around 17,000 survivors lost their homes and are now homeless.
  • Venezuela’s government has a history of providing housing but faces criticism for poor disaster response.
  • Many residents lived in government-assigned apartments without property deeds.
  • The housing crisis worsens as survivors wait for aid and new homes.
  • The earthquake affected both luxury apartments with marina access and public housing towers.
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A landslide in China buries 33 people, with about half of them rescued, state media report

A landslide in China buries 33 people, with about half of them rescued, state media report

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A landslide in a village in northwestern China buried 33 people. About 17 people were rescued, and rescue efforts are ongoing.

Key Facts

  • The landslide happened in Nanhe township, Longnan city, Gansu province, China.
  • It occurred shortly before 7 a.m. local time on Tuesday.
  • 33 people were buried by the landslide.
  • 17 people have been rescued so far.
  • The condition of the rescued people has not been reported.
  • Local authorities are helping relocate people affected by the landslide.
  • The cause of the landslide is not yet known.
  • State media including Xinhua News Agency and CCTV reported the incident.
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‘Limited damage’: Upcoming Bollywood film angers Kashmir pellet gun victims

‘Limited damage’: Upcoming Bollywood film angers Kashmir pellet gun victims

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A Bollywood film trailer about Kashmir’s protests has upset people who suffered pellet gun injuries from Indian security forces during unrest in the region. The film shows an Indian officer facing protesters and describes pellet guns as causing "limited damage," but many Kashmiris have lost their eyesight or been severely hurt by these weapons over the past decade.

Key Facts

  • Pellet guns, which fire hundreds of small metal pellets, have been used by Indian forces in Kashmir since 2010 to control protests.
  • These pellets can cause serious injuries, including permanent blindness, as with Feroz Aslam who lost his sight after being hit.
  • Over 1,000 Kashmiris have lost partial or full vision due to pellet gun injuries.
  • The Bollywood film “Chauhaan,” set to release in October 2027, features an Indian security officer and refers to pellet guns as only causing “limited damage.”
  • The trailer’s portrayal has angered victims and others in Kashmir who feel it downplays their suffering.
  • Large protests in 2016 followed the killing of Burhan Wani, a rebel leader, leading to many injuries and deaths in Kashmir.
  • Some pellet gun victims include very young children and teenagers who have suffered severe physical harm.
  • The film’s depiction touches on a sensitive and ongoing conflict in the disputed Kashmir region, claimed by both India and Pakistan.
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