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Troy Jackson poised to replace Graham Platner as Democratic nominee in Maine Senate race

Troy Jackson poised to replace Graham Platner as Democratic nominee in Maine Senate race

July 20, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

Troy Jackson is expected to become the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine after the previous candidate, Graham Platner, quit amid sexual assault allegations. Jackson gained broad support from party delegates and other candidates who withdrew in his favor ahead of a special convention to select the nominee.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner ended his Senate campaign after allegations of sexual assault surfaced.
  • Several Democratic candidates competed to replace Platner but dropped out, leaving Troy Jackson as the main contender.
  • A special convention with 601 delegates is set to choose the final nominee by July 27.
  • Troy Jackson has support from major unions, state Democrats, and national progressive groups.
  • Jackson previously served as Maine Senate president and ran for governor in 2024 but lost in the primary.
  • Jackson received endorsements from former rivals who withdrew, including Jordan Wood, Nirav Shah, and Dan Kleban.
  • The Senate seat is currently held by Republican Susan Collins, who has served for almost 30 years.
  • Democrats see winning this seat as crucial to regaining control of the U.S. Senate in the upcoming midterm elections.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Ukraine fires 400 drones toward Moscow as Zelenskyy grapples with protests

Ukraine fires 400 drones toward Moscow as Zelenskyy grapples with protests

July 20, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Ukraine launched more than 400 drones toward Moscow in a recent attack, causing damage to buildings and injuring people. At the same time, Russia fired ballistic missiles at Ukrainian cities, resulting in casualties, while Ukrainian President Zelenskyy worked to resolve political disagreements within his government.

Key Facts

  • Over 400 Ukrainian drones were sent toward Moscow, with many being intercepted before reaching the city.
  • The drone attack caused fires and damage to industrial areas and possibly an oil depot near Moscow.
  • Ten people were injured by the drones in the Moscow region.
  • A drone strike on a bus in Russia's Belgorod region killed five people and injured 23 others.
  • Ukraine targeted Russian oil facilities and ships to disrupt fuel supplies and transport.
  • Russia increasingly uses ballistic missiles, which travel very fast and are harder to stop.
  • Russian missile attacks killed at least six people and wounded dozens in Ukrainian cities.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is holding talks to address political splits over how to continue the war.
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PBS NewsHour
Video of Moroccan man dying while pinned down by police sparks anger in Italy

Video of Moroccan man dying while pinned down by police sparks anger in Italy

July 20, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

A 42-year-old Moroccan-born man named Abderrahim Fakir died after being restrained by police in Bologna, Italy. Video footage showing Fakir pinned face down by officers has led to public outrage and a formal investigation into the circumstances of his death.

Key Facts

  • Fakir was detained after reports of erratic behavior and damage to parked cars.
  • Police used pepper spray when Fakir resisted arrest.
  • Videos show Fakir handcuffed and held face down by two officers and a third man.
  • Fakir called for help and pleaded before becoming unresponsive.
  • An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death.
  • The investigation will examine whether the restraint or other factors caused Fakir’s death.
  • The two officers involved remain on duty during the investigation.
  • The case has sparked debates about police tactics and use of force in Italy.
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CBS News
Apple Crumble: a tasty Knives Out-inspired mystery that lets you snoop on your own family

Apple Crumble: a tasty Knives Out-inspired mystery that lets you snoop on your own family

July 20, 2026 • Technology • Guardian Tech

Summary

Apple Crumble is a new mystery game inspired by the movie Knives Out. Players explore a family home, searching through drawers and rooms to uncover the story behind a potential crime involving a grandmother. The game mixes humor with deeper emotional themes and features detailed art and interactive storytelling.

Key Facts

  • Apple Crumble is a mystery game focused on exploring a family home to solve a plot involving a possible threat to the grandmother.
  • The game is inspired by the movie Knives Out and the studio’s previous game, Duck Detective.
  • Players can open every drawer and door to find clues and learn about family members’ troubles and secrets.
  • The story begins with humor but becomes more serious and emotional, reflecting the creator’s personal feelings about losing a grandmother.
  • The art style uses layered paint splatters inspired by Puss in Boots concept art to create a natural and detailed look.
  • The script is nearly finished, and voice actors will be recorded together to create realistic interactions.
  • Apple Crumble is being developed by Happy Broccoli Games for PC.
  • The planned release date is in late 2026.
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Guardian Tech
Notorious drug cartel leader Ismael Zambada sentenced to life in US prison

Notorious drug cartel leader Ismael Zambada sentenced to life in US prison

July 20, 2026 • World • BBC US

Summary

Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, leader of Mexico's Sinaloa drug cartel, was sentenced to life in a US prison after pleading guilty to drug smuggling and conspiracy charges. He was captured in 2024 during a sting operation that brought him to the US, and his sentencing marks a key moment in the fight against drug trafficking between Mexico and the United States.

Key Facts

  • Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada is 76 years old and co-founded the powerful Sinaloa Cartel.
  • Zambada was arrested in Texas in 2024 after being tricked into traveling from Mexico.
  • He pleaded guilty to drug smuggling and conspiracy to avoid the death penalty.
  • A US judge sentenced him to life in prison in a Brooklyn federal court.
  • Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzmán Lopez, El Chapo’s son, was also arrested and pleaded guilty but is not yet sentenced.
  • The Sinaloa Cartel has experienced violent internal conflicts since Zambada’s arrest.
  • There is debate over whether Zambada will serve his sentence in a prison hospital due to health issues or in a higher-security prison.
  • President Donald Trump announced stronger US actions against Mexican drug cartels, including labeling them as terrorist groups.
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BBC US BBC World BBC Top Stories
Philippine sailor injured during clash with Chinese coast guard

Philippine sailor injured during clash with Chinese coast guard

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A Philippine sailor was injured after a China coast guard member hit him with a wooden baton during a clash in the South China Sea, an area claimed by both countries. Both China and the Philippines disagree about what happened, and the incident will be discussed in important talks in Manila this week.

Key Facts

  • A Philippine sailor was hurt during a confrontation with China’s coast guard.
  • The injury came when a Chinese coast guard officer hit the sailor with a wooden baton.
  • The clash took place in disputed waters of the South China Sea.
  • China and the Philippines have different views about the incident.
  • The incident will be a topic in official talks held in Manila.
  • The South China Sea is a region with ongoing territorial disagreements.
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Al Jazeera
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What the US needs to know about Iran’s mosaic defense

What the US needs to know about Iran’s mosaic defense

July 20, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

The article explains Iran’s "mosaic defense," a strategy designed to protect the country by using many smaller, connected parts instead of relying on one single system. This approach makes it harder for enemies to defeat Iran with just one attack or ongoing attacks.

Key Facts

  • Iran uses a defense system called "mosaic defense."
  • The system relies on many smaller units working together.
  • No single point controls the entire defense network.
  • This setup prevents a single attack from breaking the system.
  • Continuous attacks are less effective because of the dispersed design.
  • The goal is to create a strong, flexible defense.
  • The theory behind this is to avoid total failure from one strike.
  • The approach differs from traditional large, centralized defense systems.
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The Hill
Is the $2.5 Trillion AI Boom Exposing Enterprise Software’s Weak Spots?

Is the $2.5 Trillion AI Boom Exposing Enterprise Software’s Weak Spots?

July 20, 2026 • Technology • Newsweek

Summary

Global spending on artificial intelligence in business is expected to reach $2.52 trillion by 2026 as companies try to update and automate their operations. However, many businesses face challenges because they invest in new software without fully understanding how their work processes function, leading to inefficient systems.

Key Facts

  • Worldwide AI investment in businesses will likely surpass $2.5 trillion by 2026.
  • Many companies have trouble knowing where software can truly improve their operations.
  • Ramesh Pimentel, CEO of Ramedia, says the main problem is not the technology but a poor understanding of business workflows.
  • Ramedia focuses on studying how companies work before suggesting or creating software solutions.
  • The company’s approach involves workflow analysis and operational audits to match software with real business needs.
  • Founders Pimentel and Veludandi grew their skills by working on increasingly complex projects, moving from small websites to enterprise-level software.
  • Many businesses hesitate to change old processes because it can be risky and expensive.
  • Ramedia helps companies find gaps in their work processes to save time, reduce errors, and improve efficiency before adding new software.
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Newsweek
Suspect arrested in explosion outside NYC federal building was anti-ICE, sources say

Suspect arrested in explosion outside NYC federal building was anti-ICE, sources say

July 20, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

A suspect was arrested after an explosion near a federal building in Manhattan, New York City. Sources say the person was motivated by opposition to ICE, the U.S. agency that enforces immigration laws.

Key Facts

  • The explosion happened outside 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan.
  • Authorities arrested a suspect connected to the explosion.
  • The suspect was reportedly against ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).
  • ICE is a U.S. government agency responsible for immigration enforcement.
  • CBS News and former NYPD Sergeant Felipe Rodriguez reported on the case.
  • The incident took place in New York City.
  • No further details on injuries or damage were provided in the article.
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CBS News
'Extraordinary sight' of rare bird from Asia spotted in UK

'Extraordinary sight' of rare bird from Asia spotted in UK

July 20, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A rare bird from Asia was spotted in the UK, which birdwatchers described as an extraordinary event. This unusual sighting attracted attention because the bird is not normally found in the area.

Key Facts

  • A rare Asian bird was seen in the UK.
  • Birdwatchers called this sighting extraordinary.
  • The bird is not native to the UK.
  • The sighting took place recently.
  • This event attracted interest among nature and wildlife observers.
  • Locations mentioned include Eastleach and Gloucestershire in the UK.
  • The birdwatching community is actively following such rare appearances.
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BBC Top Stories
At least 25 killed as floods and landslides hit northern India

At least 25 killed as floods and landslides hit northern India

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Heavy monsoon rains have caused floods and landslides in northern and northeastern India, killing at least 25 people and injuring many others. Authorities are carrying out rescue operations and have temporarily suspended important religious pilgrimages due to safety concerns.

Key Facts

  • At least 25 people died due to floods and landslides in northern and northeastern India.
  • In Kashmir’s Poonch, Rajouri, and Doda districts, at least 15 people died and some remain missing.
  • Nagaland state experienced multiple landslides that killed nine people and injured at least 15.
  • A flash flood in Rajouri, Jammu, damaged homes and property, with 11 people rescued by army and emergency teams.
  • Assam reported one death and over 57,000 people affected by flooding in seven districts.
  • India’s weather office warns of more heavy rain in Jammu and Kashmir over the coming week.
  • Authorities suspended the annual Amarnath and Vaishno Devi pilgrimages for safety until routes are declared safe.
  • Floods during the monsoon season are common in India, occurring despite droughts in some areas.
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Al Jazeera
As a British Jew, I Already Feel More Afraid | Opinion

As a British Jew, I Already Feel More Afraid | Opinion

July 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Andy Burnham became Britain’s new prime minister without a leadership election, replacing Keir Starmer as Labour Party leader. Some British Jews are worried about Burnham’s approach to antisemitism and his efforts to regain support from voters concerned about Israel, after a history of antisemitism issues within the Labour Party.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham became Britain’s seventh prime minister in ten years, appointed without a leadership election.
  • Labour holds 403 out of 650 seats in the House of Commons but did not select a new leader from among its MPs.
  • The Labour Party has had a long struggle with antisemitism, including unlawful harassment found by the British Equality and Human Rights Commission.
  • Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn was criticized for allowing anti-Zionist and antisemitic attitudes in the party.
  • Under Keir Starmer, Labour tried to combat antisemitism, but attacks on British Jews have continued, including a deadly synagogue terror attack.
  • Burnham has stated opposition to antisemitism but has apologized for Labour’s initial support of Israel’s actions in Gaza, which some British Jews found concerning.
  • Burnham seeks to regain votes from areas with large Muslim populations and progressives focused on Palestine.
  • Burnham granted an interview to Gary Lineker, who faced controversy over sharing antisemitic content, raising further concerns in the Jewish community.
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Newsweek
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El Mayo, the infamous Mexican drug lord, to be sentenced on federal charges

El Mayo, the infamous Mexican drug lord, to be sentenced on federal charges

July 20, 2026 • World • ABC News

Summary

Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, a leader of Mexico's Sinaloa drug cartel, will be sentenced in New York for drug trafficking. He pleaded guilty to running a large criminal operation that smuggled millions of kilograms of drugs into the U.S. and caused widespread violence and corruption.

Key Facts

  • El Mayo co-founded the Sinaloa cartel with Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán.
  • He is charged with running a criminal enterprise involving at least 1.5 million kilograms of cocaine.
  • The cartel shipped other drugs like fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine.
  • His group used armed enforcers to carry out violence including murder and torture.
  • He paid millions in bribes at different levels of the Mexican government.
  • Federal prosecutors want El Mayo to serve life in prison and forfeit $15 billion.
  • El Mayo accepted responsibility, apologized for the harm caused, and avoided a trial by pleading guilty.
  • Even in prison, cartel members remain loyal to him, including his son who leads a faction of the cartel.
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ABC News
Two French diplomats subjected to ‘extremely serious act of intimidation’ in Iran, FM Barrot says

Two French diplomats subjected to ‘extremely serious act of intimidation’ in Iran, FM Barrot says

July 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Two French diplomats were held and questioned by Iranian security services for several hours and one was physically harmed. France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called the incident a serious violation of diplomatic rules and warned Iran that there would be consequences.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened in Iran on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
  • Two French embassy officials were detained and interrogated by Iranian security.
  • One diplomat suffered physical abuse during the detention.
  • Both diplomats work on programs supporting Iranian civil society, including artists and scientists.
  • The diplomats were released and are safe, expected to return to France soon.
  • France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot condemned the action as a breach of diplomatic immunity.
  • Barrot warned Iran’s deputy foreign minister that the event is serious and unacceptable.
  • France has said it will not lift European sanctions on Iran until Iran stops its nuclear program and destabilizing activities in the region.
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France24
Lebanon’s military starts ‘pilot zone’ takeover in south

Lebanon’s military starts ‘pilot zone’ takeover in south

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Lebanese army plans to take control of security in three villages in southern Lebanon as part of a US-led agreement with Israel and Lebanon. This agreement aims for Israel to gradually withdraw from these areas while the Lebanese military manages security and disarms the Hezbollah group. However, Israeli forces have not yet fully left, and questions remain about the timing of the withdrawal.

Key Facts

  • The three “pilot zone” villages are Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar al-Gharbiya in southern Lebanon.
  • The US State Department announced the plan as part of a framework agreement reached on June 26 after negotiations involving Lebanon, Israel, and the US.
  • Under the agreement, Israel will slowly retreat from southern Lebanon, and the Lebanese military will take over security and disarm Hezbollah.
  • Hezbollah, supported by Iran, opposes the agreement and demands Israel leave Lebanon fully and unconditionally.
  • Israeli forces remain in parts of southern Lebanon, claiming the need for a “security zone” as long as Hezbollah is armed.
  • Lebanese officials say there have been no changes yet on the ground, and the Lebanese army has not fully deployed in the pilot zones.
  • Since fighting intensified in March, over 4,300 Lebanese have died, more than a million have been displaced, and at least 36 Israeli personnel and civilians have also been killed.
  • The agreement does not set a clear timeline for Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
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Al Jazeera
Iran says diplomatic efforts ongoing via mediators amid fighting with US

Iran says diplomatic efforts ongoing via mediators amid fighting with US

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iran says it has received proposals through mediators to stop recent fighting with the United States but gave no details. The two countries have exchanged attacks, including missile strikes and targeting of infrastructure, while diplomatic efforts continue alongside military actions.

Key Facts

  • Iran has been approached through mediators with proposals to end renewed fighting with the US.
  • Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei did not reveal details or confirm reports of a 10-day truce offer.
  • Fighting has included attacks on infrastructure and military sites in Iran and in Gulf countries like Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US is open to diplomacy but sees Iran’s missile and drone strikes as a problem.
  • Iran claims the US military is using neighboring countries’ territories to attack Iran.
  • Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the US of continuing to send military equipment to the region despite talks.
  • The US has conducted multiple air strikes inside Iran, including on a civilian nuclear plant under construction.
  • Both Iran’s army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have launched missile attacks targeting US forces.
  • A US naval blockade continues on Iran’s southern ports, affecting global energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
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Al Jazeera
Spain go back to the top of FIFA rankings, Morocco reach a record high

Spain go back to the top of FIFA rankings, Morocco reach a record high

July 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Spain became the top team in the FIFA men’s soccer rankings after beating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. Morocco reached their highest-ever ranking at sixth place, while several other teams moved up or down following the recent World Cup.

Key Facts

  • Spain returned to first place in the FIFA rankings for the first time since January.
  • Argentina dropped to second place after losing to Spain.
  • France stayed third, and England remained fourth in the rankings.
  • Morocco reached a record high, moving up to sixth place.
  • Portugal fell to seventh after being eliminated in the World Cup round of 16.
  • Mexico entered the top 10, climbing four spots.
  • Norway jumped 12 places to 19th after reaching the World Cup quarter-finals.
  • Italy fell to 15th place after failing to qualify for the World Cup.
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Al Jazeera
Third person dies amid NYC Legionnaires’ outbreak, officials say

Third person dies amid NYC Legionnaires’ outbreak, officials say

July 20, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

A third person has died in New York City due to a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak. Officials previously reported a second death linked to the illness.

Key Facts

  • Three people have now died from Legionnaires’ disease in New York City.
  • The Health Department recently announced the second death before confirming the third.
  • Legionnaires’ disease is a type of lung infection caused by bacteria.
  • The outbreak is ongoing, and health officials are monitoring the situation.
  • The city is investigating possible sources of the bacteria to prevent more cases.
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The Hill
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Sarah Ferguson and Diddy Relationship Claim Backed Up by Staffer—Author

Sarah Ferguson and Diddy Relationship Claim Backed Up by Staffer—Author

July 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Historian Andrew Lownie claimed that Sarah Ferguson had a casual relationship with rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs, supported by statements from Combs' former head of security, Roger Bonds. Both Ferguson's and Combs' teams denied the claims. Bonds confirmed some details but denied that Combs showed interest in Ferguson’s daughters.

Key Facts

  • Andrew Lownie wrote about a "friends with benefits" relationship between Sarah Ferguson and Sean "Diddy" Combs in his book.
  • Combs' former head of security, Roger Bonds, supported parts of Lownie's story in a TV interview.
  • Ferguson’s representatives called the claims "fabricated nonsense."
  • Combs’ team dismissed the claims as "ridiculous gossip."
  • Bonds said Ferguson was attracted to Combs because he was a "bad boy" and connected to power.
  • Bonds denied the claim that Combs was interested in Ferguson's daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
  • Combs faced legal charges including sexual assault and sex trafficking but was acquitted of the most serious ones, though convicted on two lesser counts.
  • Prince Andrew (Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor) is under investigation for unrelated misconduct allegations and has denied wrongdoing.
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Newsweek
Troy Jackson poised to seize Maine baton after Platner's exit

Troy Jackson poised to seize Maine baton after Platner's exit

July 20, 2026 • Us • Axios

Summary

Democrats in Maine are supporting Troy Jackson as their candidate to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins in the upcoming election. Jackson gained strong backing after other candidates dropped out and the previous Democratic candidate, Graham Platner, ended his campaign following sexual assault allegations.

Key Facts

  • Troy Jackson is expected to become the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate seat in Maine.
  • He received wide support after other Democratic candidates, Nirav Shah, Dan Kleban, and Jordan Wood, ended their campaigns and endorsed him.
  • Graham Platner, the former Democratic candidate, quit after being accused of sexual assault, which he denies.
  • Jackson finished third in Maine's recent Democratic primary for governor.
  • His campaign focuses on Medicare for all, cutting U.S. tax dollars to Israel's military, abolishing ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), and supporting abortion rights.
  • Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders previously endorsed Jackson in the governor’s race.
  • The Maine Democratic Party will officially choose the nominee at a convention with 601 delegates.
  • Republicans are preparing a strong advertising campaign against Jackson in the Senate race.
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Axios
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