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The federal court in Australia is reviewing challenges to the Albanese government's approval of Woodside’s large gas project extension in Western Australia. Environmental and cultural groups argue the approval did not properly consider climate damage or risks to ancient indigenous rock art near the gas plant. A UN expert has joined the case to highlight Australia's international climate duties.
Key Facts
The Australian government approved Woodside’s North West Shelf gas project extension until 2070.
The approval faces federal court challenges by the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) and Friends of Australian Rock Art (Fara).
The gas project is expected to emit about 4 billion tonnes of CO2, similar to 10 years of Australia’s emissions.
The gas plant is located near the Murujuga rock art complex, which contains ancient petroglyphs over 50,000 years old.
Fara and ACF argue the environment minister did not properly assess the climate impact and risks to the rock art.
A UN special rapporteur on the right to a healthy environment has been allowed to advise the court on Australia’s international legal obligations.
The International Court of Justice ruled countries must prevent harm to the climate system and may face penalties for failing to do so.
Woodside stated the project approval followed detailed government processes.
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Nearly 100 US troops have been injured in the past two weeks due to escalating attacks linked to Iran. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards attacked US military sites in the Gulf region, and a tanker near the Strait of Hormuz was hit, forcing its crew to abandon ship.
Key Facts
About 100 US service members were injured in recent weeks, mostly with minor concussions.
Iran targeted US military locations in Bahrain and Kuwait.
A tanker near the Strait of Hormuz was struck by an unknown projectile, causing the crew to evacuate.
Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan activated defenses to stop the attacks.
Three US soldiers were killed recently in Jordan and Iraq.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital oil and gas shipping route affected by the conflict.
Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthis announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia in response to a long-standing Saudi blockade on Yemen.
Oil prices rose above $88 per barrel, increasing fuel costs for Americans before the upcoming US elections.
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In New South Wales (NSW), land clearing increased by 16% in 2024, with more than 81,000 hectares of vegetation removed. Most of this was non-woody plants used for agriculture, and many clears were done without permits. Conservation groups say the Minns government has not managed to reduce habitat loss.
Key Facts
NSW lost about 81,293 hectares of vegetation in 2024, an increase of 16% from the previous year.
Clearing of non-woody plants like grasses rose sharply by 70%.
Woody vegetation, including trees and shrubs, cleared was 24,103 hectares, which is less than last year but still high.
About 60% of the cleared land was for farming, with the rest for infrastructure and forestry.
60% of clearing was "unallocated," meaning it either did not require a permit or was done illegally.
The current government, led by Premier Chris Minns, promised to reduce clearing but has not changed policies since 2023.
A classification allowing clearing of "invasive native species" made up 61% of permitted clearing on regulated rural land.
Environmental groups warn that this level of clearing harms wildlife habitats and increases carbon pollution.
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The UK faces a shortage of water to support its planned growth of datacentres, which need large amounts of water to cool their servers. The water industry warns that government plans do not consider these water needs, and current water supplies are already under pressure due to droughts and hosepipe bans.
Key Facts
Datacentres use a lot of water for cooling, humidifying, and electricity needs.
Water UK, representing water companies, says government water forecasts ignore datacentre demand.
The Environment Agency’s water resource plans also do not include datacentre water use estimates.
Most datacentres are being built in water-stressed areas in the south and east of England.
Water shortages may make new datacentre construction impossible without new policies or increased water supply.
Building new reservoirs can take up to 15 years.
Datacentres currently use about 6.6 million litres of drinking water daily, which could triple by 2030.
Water companies have reduced leaks by 40% but critics say water waste through leaks still greatly exceeds savings from water use restrictions.
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China and the Philippines are blaming each other after a clash at sea near the Second Thomas Shoal left a Philippine sailor hurt. The area is disputed, with the Philippines having a military outpost there, and China claiming almost the entire South China Sea.
Key Facts
The incident happened near the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines has a grounded warship used as a military outpost.
A Philippine sailor was injured after a Chinese coastguard boat allegedly hit him with a wooden baton.
China denies this and says Philippine boats rammed their patrol vessel first.
The Second Thomas Shoal is inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, about 370 kilometers from its coast.
China claims most of the South China Sea and wants the Philippine outpost removed.
An international court ruled in 2016 in favor of the Philippines’ maritime rights, but China did not accept the ruling.
The U.S. State Department condemned China’s actions, calling them dangerous and aggressive.
The incident happened during talks in Manila between Southeast Asian foreign ministers, including China’s top diplomat.
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Residents have started returning to some villages in southern Lebanon after a new agreement among Israel, Lebanon, and the United States created a "pilot zone" for limited Israeli withdrawal. However, some locals and Lebanese security sources say that certain villages included in the plan were never occupied by Israel, raising questions about how much territory Israel is actually leaving.
Key Facts
A "pilot zone" project began in southern Lebanon to implement parts of a framework agreement signed in Washington last month.
The plan involves Israel withdrawing from some areas while still occupying others in southern Lebanon.
The conflict began with Israel's war on Lebanon in March, causing over 4,300 deaths.
Israel wants the Lebanese group Hezbollah to disarm before fully leaving Lebanese territory.
Villages like Froun and Ghandouriyeh have residents starting to return, although some locals say these villages were never occupied by Israel.
Lebanese security sources agree that the villages were not under Israeli control during the conflict.
Returning residents are beginning to rebuild homes and clear rubble despite ongoing dangers.
The United Nations peacekeeping force patrols the area but will end its mission later this year.
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Andy Burnham became the new UK Prime Minister, replacing Keir Starmer and changing key government positions. He promised a 10-year plan to reduce living costs and shift policies to the left, while also strengthening ties with the United States and supporting Ukraine.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham took office as UK Prime Minister on July 20, 2026.
Burnham removed many allies of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer from the cabinet and appointed new ministers.
John Healey was named finance minister, Ed Miliband became foreign minister, and Wes Streeting took the defence minister role.
Burnham promised a plan lasting 10 years to ease the cost of living and to rebuild Britain’s industry and economy.
He held calls with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky soon after taking office.
Burnham pledged strong UK support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
He met King Charles III to be formally appointed as Prime Minister.
Burnham emphasized decentralizing power and ending homelessness as part of his government's goals.
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The US military’s Central Command shared videos showing attacks on Iran. These strikes targeted Iranian command centers, ships, missile and drone launch sites, and air defense systems.
Key Facts
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) released video footage of military strikes on Iran.
The attacks targeted Iranian command centers controlling military operations.
Iranian maritime (navy) capabilities were hit in the strikes.
Missile and drone launch sites in Iran were targeted.
Iran’s air defense systems were also attacked.
This was part of a series of strikes, described as the tenth night in a row.
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A federal judge, appointed by President Donald Trump, decided against the Trump administration in an important case about Minnesota's local immigration laws. The administration had argued that Minnesota's sanctuary policies conflict with the Constitution, which says federal law should overrule state laws.
Key Facts
The case involves Minnesota's sanctuary laws, which limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The Trump administration claims these sanctuary laws break the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
The Supremacy Clause says federal law takes priority over state and local laws.
A federal judge nominated by President Trump ruled against the administration's argument.
The ruling means Minnesota's sanctuary policies can continue for now.
The case highlights a disagreement between federal and state governments over immigration enforcement.
The decision was announced in a court filing on Monday.
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Diplomatic talks took place in Cairo between Egypt, Somalia, Eritrea, and a senior US official to address security and political challenges in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region. The discussions focus on Ethiopia’s growing regional role, maritime security, and shifting alliances around major shipping routes like the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.
Key Facts
Egypt, Somalia, Eritrea, and the United States held diplomatic consultations in Cairo.
The main topic was security and stability in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.
Ethiopia is expanding its maritime access and regional influence, affecting neighboring countries.
Egypt is concerned about more than just the Nile waters; it now views the Red Sea as part of its security environment.
Somalia is strategically important due to its location near critical shipping routes and its dispute with Ethiopia over coastal access.
Eritrea’s Red Sea coastline and complex relations with Ethiopia make it a key regional player.
The US envoy’s involvement highlights Washington’s interest in regional diplomacy and security coordination.
The talks reflect a shared goal of managing regional tensions amid growing geopolitical competition.
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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington as efforts increase to disarm Hezbollah, which Israel requires before it withdraws troops from southern Lebanon. The United States has begun handing control of certain southern areas to the Lebanese army as part of this agreement, while tensions rise in the region due to ongoing conflicts involving Iran and attacks near the Strait of Hormuz.
Key Facts
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will meet President Donald Trump in Washington on July 21, 2026.
Israel demands that Hezbollah be disarmed before it withdraws from southern Lebanon.
The U.S. has started transferring control of "pilot zones" in southern Lebanon to the Lebanese army.
These zones are near areas Israel occupied after Hezbollah involved Lebanon in the Middle East war in March 2026.
President Aoun opposes Hezbollah pulling Lebanon into war and seeks U.S. help to push Israel to withdraw from occupied lands.
Iran reportedly launched missile attacks on a U.S. military base in Kuwait, escalating regional conflict.
A tanker in the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly hit by an unknown projectile, with investigations ongoing.
The broader conflict involves the U.S., Iran, and their allies, with warnings of full-scale war and threats to global oil routes.
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Tropical Storm Bertha is moving near the northern Gulf Coast of the United States and is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding, and storm surges to parts of Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. Officials warn of possible tornadoes and are preparing for strong winds and flooding, especially around New Orleans.
Key Facts
Bertha is about 105 miles south of Panama City, Florida, with winds of 40 mph.
The storm is moving northwest slowly at 3 mph along the northern Gulf Coast.
It may strengthen before making landfall near New Orleans by Wednesday.
Tropical storm-force winds stretch 70 miles from the center of the storm.
Flooding and storm surges of 1 to 4 feet are expected in parts of Louisiana and Mississippi.
Up to 8 inches of rain could fall by Friday in some areas.
Tornadoes might occur in Florida.
Sandbags are being distributed in New Orleans to protect against flooding, and residents are asked to clear storm drains.
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French lawmakers are set to approve a law banning children under 15 from using social media, making France the first European country to do so. The law will start by blocking new accounts for under-15s in September 2026 and suspend existing accounts from January 2027, aiming to protect children from harmful effects linked to social media use.
Key Facts
France’s parliament reached a compromise on a social media ban for under-15s and plans to approve it soon.
The ban will start September 1, 2026, by blocking new accounts for children under 15.
Existing social media accounts for under-15s will be suspended from January 2027.
The law also includes a ban on mobile phones in secondary schools starting in the new school year.
France’s public health watchdog reported social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram can harm adolescents, especially girls.
About 90% of French children aged 12-17 use smartphones daily, with 58% using social media.
The ban excludes educational and online encyclopedia sites.
The European Union is also considering similar rules, seeking a gradual approach to social media access for children.
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French lawmakers are set to approve a law banning children under 15 from using social media. The law will start in September 2026 for new accounts and apply to existing accounts from January 2027, aiming to protect young people’s mental health.
Key Facts
The law bans social media use for children under 15 in France.
It will come into effect for new accounts from September 1, 2026.
Existing accounts for under-15s must be closed by January 2027.
The law also includes a ban on mobile phones in secondary schools starting with the new school year.
France is the first country in Europe to set a digital age limit for social media access.
The law was agreed upon by both houses of the French Parliament after debates and compromises.
Platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram were identified as harmful to teenagers, especially girls, by France’s public health agency.
The law allows exceptions for educational websites and online encyclopedias.
This law aligns with a broader European effort to regulate children’s access to social media, with the EU working on related rules.
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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss plans to disarm Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran. Israel has said it will only withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon if Hezbollah is disarmed, and the U.S. supports this demand.
Key Facts
President Aoun is presenting a plan to disarm Hezbollah to President Trump in Washington.
Israel insists on Hezbollah’s disarmament before pulling troops out of southern Lebanon.
The U.S. has started implementing an agreement giving the Lebanese army control over certain "pilot zones" near Israeli-occupied lands.
Hezbollah’s involvement in a recent Middle East war followed the killing of Iran’s top leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The Lebanese government, with Western support, aims to reclaim sovereignty by disarming Hezbollah.
Violence has decreased after a framework agreement between the U.S. and Iran and ongoing Lebanon-Israel talks.
Israel’s strikes since March have killed over 4,300 people in Lebanon and displaced hundreds of thousands.
President Aoun believes only President Trump can effectively pressure Israel to withdraw troops.
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A former US Army soldier set a fire and fired a pellet gun outside a federal building in New York City that houses the FBI and immigration offices. He was arrested after being tackled by federal agents, and three people were slightly hurt during the incident.
Key Facts
The suspect is Andrew Arrabaca, age 43, from Poughkeepsie, New York.
The incident happened at 26 Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan on Monday morning.
Arrabaca set a fire on the building stairs after pouring a flammable liquid and fired fireworks.
He also shot about 5-7 pellets from an airsoft gun towards the building.
Arrabaca was armed with a machete, two axes, and three knives.
Three people were injured, including two government employees, a bystander, and a security officer who detained him.
Arrabaca made anti-government and anti-ICE statements during the attack.
He served in the US Army from 2001 to 2005 with no deployments and left with the rank of specialist.
The mayor of New York City called the event disturbing and promised safety and accountability measures.
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Google’s parent company Alphabet wants to release 32 million sterilized male mosquitoes in parts of the U.S. to reduce disease-carrying mosquito populations. An Australian project that released similar specially bred male mosquitoes showed this method can greatly lower mosquito numbers without harming people.
Key Facts
Alphabet’s Debug program seeks approval to release millions of sterilized male mosquitoes in California and Florida.
Male mosquitoes do not bite or spread diseases like dengue or Zika.
The goal is for these males to mate with females, causing eggs to fail and reducing mosquito populations.
Australia’s similar project used mosquitoes carrying a natural bacterium called wolbachia to disrupt reproduction.
Wolbachia causes reproductive incompatibility, so eggs from these matings don’t hatch.
Over 3 million wolbachia-infected male mosquitoes were released across several Australian towns in 2018.
The Australian trial worked well partly due to local community support and strict safety checks.
Verily (Alphabet’s life sciences division) developed technology using machine learning to sort male and female mosquitoes to ensure only males were released.
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The U.S. State Department released a report that connects Cuba to several protests in the United States, including those after George Floyd’s death in 2020. The report says Cuba has been involved in supporting protests and unrest in the U.S. since the 1960s.
Key Facts
The U.S. State Department published a 100-page report on Monday.
The report links Cuba to protests in the United States.
Protests mentioned include those after George Floyd was killed in 2020.
It claims Cuba has been actively involved in U.S. protests since the 1960s.
The Cuban government is described as playing a major role in promoting unrest.
The report focuses on Cuba’s long-term influence on protests and social movements in the U.S.
This report is part of the U.S. government's ongoing concerns about foreign influence on American protests.
It does not provide detailed examples of how Cuba was involved in recent protests.
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Authorities in Guyana recovered 27 bodies after a ferry called MV Barima capsized off the coast. The ferry was carrying 179 people, and 69 have been rescued while 83 are still missing. Officials are investigating possible negligence by the ferry crew, including drug use by the captain and others.
Key Facts
The ferry MV Barima capsized while traveling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma.
A distress call was made on Saturday night before the ferry overturned.
27 bodies have been recovered, 69 people rescued, and 83 remain missing.
The ferry was believed to carry 179 people, but some passengers were not on the official list.
The ferry’s captain and at least one crew member tested positive for marijuana and were arrested.
Officials said crew members are not allowed to drink or use drugs while working.
Passengers had complained that ferry terminals sold seats illegally and did not record all passengers.
Guyana’s Prime Minister started an investigation into possible crew negligence.
President Irfaan Ali visited those affected and promised support and help.
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A United Airlines employee was recorded threatening to call immigration authorities on a customer during a ticket problem at San Francisco Airport. The customer, Julio Varela, and his family, all U.S. citizens, were trying to fix a name error on a ticket when the employee made the threat.
Key Facts
The incident happened at San Francisco International Airport last week.
Julio Varela was traveling with his wife and three daughters; all are U.S. citizens.
The problem was a ticket issued with a middle name instead of a last name for one of Varela’s daughters.
The United employee was rude and refused to give her name when asked.
The employee threatened to call ICE, the U.S. immigration enforcement agency, on Varela.
Varela recorded the interaction on his phone, and the video went viral on social media.
The family eventually resolved the ticket issue and boarded their flight.
United Airlines said it was investigating the incident but gave no further details.
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