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Live updates: Todd Blanche, Jay Clayton face Senate confirmation hearings

Live updates: Todd Blanche, Jay Clayton face Senate confirmation hearings

Summary

The U.S. military carried out new daytime attacks on Iran to reduce its ability to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz. On Tuesday, the U.S. also restarted a blockade of this waterway. President Trump held a strategy meeting to plan a larger offensive against Iran.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military launched daytime strikes targeting Iran.
  • The strikes aim to limit Iran’s ability to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The U.S. reimposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday.
  • President Trump held a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday.
  • The meeting focused on planning a broad new offensive against Tehran.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for international shipping.
  • The situation involves rising military tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
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Protest in Pakistan’s Kashmir stalls after nine killed in clashes

Protest in Pakistan’s Kashmir stalls after nine killed in clashes

Summary

Clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have killed at least nine people amid protests against political issues. A planned protest march to the region’s capital, Muzaffarabad, was stopped temporarily as security forces and protesters exchanged gunfire and stone-throwing.

Key Facts

  • At least nine people, including security officers and protesters, were killed in clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
  • Security forces raided a house in Poonch district for weapons and were fired upon, resulting in one officer’s death.
  • In Sudhnoti district, protesters blocked a security convoy, leading to violence that killed seven protesters and one police officer.
  • The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), the protest group, was banned under anti-terrorism laws on June 5.
  • Protesters planned to march to Muzaffarabad but were halted, staying in Rawalakot instead.
  • The government restricted internet and phone access in the region due to security concerns.
  • The protests focus on 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living outside the region, which the group wants removed.
  • Elections are scheduled for July 27, with about 4,000 police and paramilitary forces deployed to maintain order.
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Sea of Azov: Ukraine's New Attacking Campaign Against Russia

Sea of Azov: Ukraine's New Attacking Campaign Against Russia

Summary

Ukraine has launched a new campaign using drones to attack Russian ships in the Sea of Azov. These strikes have greatly reduced Russian maritime traffic and aim to cut off supplies to the Crimean Peninsula without damaging the Kerch Bridge.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine’s drone forces hit 20 Russian vessels overnight, totaling 136 ship strikes from July 6 to 15.
  • The Sea of Azov connects to the Black Sea via the Kerch Strait, which links Crimea to Russia.
  • Ukraine targets Russia’s "shadow fleet," ships hidden to avoid sanctions.
  • Russia suspended shipping on the Don-Azov Channel linking the Sea of Azov to the Don River after the attacks.
  • Ukrainian operations combine attacks on ships and Russian air defenses, showing advanced planning and coordination.
  • Ukraine has no traditional navy in the Black Sea but uses drones to control the area.
  • Ukrainian strikes also target fuel and supply routes to isolate Crimea, causing fuel shortages there.
  • Maritime traffic in the Sea of Azov dropped sharply from 132 ships to 43 between July 6 and July 12.
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Man's murder conviction quashed by Court of Appeal

Man's murder conviction quashed by Court of Appeal

Summary

A man named David Francis had his murder conviction overturned by the Court of Appeal. The court decided there was not enough evidence to prove he took part in a stabbing that killed Davices Anderson in Nottingham in April 2023.

Key Facts

  • Davices Anderson died from a stab wound to the heart after being found injured on a street in Nottingham.
  • David Francis was originally sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 16.5 years.
  • Courtney McLeary, also jailed for the murder, had his appeal rejected.
  • The stabbing happened in McLeary’s flat during a drug use gathering.
  • McLeary admitted to stabbing Anderson, claiming self-defense.
  • Francis said he tried to act as a peacemaker and was not involved.
  • The Court of Appeal found insufficient evidence to show Francis helped or encouraged McLeary.
  • The court ruled the trial judge was right to allow certain hearsay evidence during the trial.
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Extreme temperature warnings in place as ‘heat dome’ bakes US

Extreme temperature warnings in place as ‘heat dome’ bakes US

Summary

Many parts of the United States are experiencing extreme heat due to a "heat dome," which traps hot air and stops clouds and storms. This unusual heat has broken temperature records in several cities and increases risks of heat-related illnesses and wildfires.

Key Facts

  • Billings, Montana reached 111°F (43.9°C), its hottest day ever.
  • Salt Lake City, Utah hit 109°F (42.8°C), setting a new record high.
  • A "heat dome" is causing the heat by trapping warm air over large areas for days.
  • Heat illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke are concerns; symptoms include heavy sweating, fatigue, and high body temperature.
  • Nighttime temperatures are staying high in some regions, increasing health risks for vulnerable people.
  • Wildfires are burning millions of acres, worsened by hot, dry conditions.
  • Several firefighters have died recently while fighting wildfires in Colorado and Utah.
  • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration expects dangerous heat to continue through next Monday, spreading to more southern states later in the week.
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‘They want to break our will’: Gaza flotilla activist tells of rape in Israeli detention

‘They want to break our will’: Gaza flotilla activist tells of rape in Israeli detention

Summary

Anna Liedtke, a European activist detained by Israeli forces after trying to deliver aid to Gaza, has accused Israeli female guards of raping her during her imprisonment. Liedtke and lawyers have filed a complaint demanding an investigation into her allegations, highlighting concerns over sexual violence in Israeli detention centers.

Key Facts

  • Anna Liedtke was detained for five days after Israeli forces intercepted her flotilla boat in international waters near Gaza.
  • She reported being illegally strip-searched three times and raped by female guards during her detention.
  • Male guards were reportedly present and possibly filmed the attack.
  • Liedtke has publicly spoken about her experience and filed a criminal complaint in Israel seeking justice and an investigation.
  • Allegations of sexual violence against Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails have been reported for years and are now said to be expanding to foreign activists.
  • The United Nations has placed Israel on a blacklist for sexual violence in conflict situations, based on documented abuse.
  • Other countries like Australia and France are investigating similar allegations related to flotilla activists.
  • Liedtke’s legal team aims to challenge what they call a “culture of impunity” for prisoner abuses in Israel.
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‘I’ve never worked with so many conservatives’: the Texans fighting the Big Bend border wall

‘I’ve never worked with so many conservatives’: the Texans fighting the Big Bend border wall

Summary

Residents in the Big Bend region of Texas have started a group called No Big Bend Wall to fight against plans for a border wall along the Rio Grande. They say the wall would harm wildlife, block access to the river, and hurt tourism in the area, which is known for its natural beauty.

Key Facts

  • Molly Walker, a local resident, started the campaign through an Instagram post in February.
  • The group has grown to include people from different backgrounds working together.
  • The U.S. Congress approved $46.5 billion to expand the border wall under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
  • The border wall would pass through Big Bend National Park, where illegal border crossings are rare.
  • Experts warn the wall will damage wildlife habitats and reduce access for fishing and boating.
  • The area might lose its international dark sky status, important for attracting tourists.
  • The U.S. Customs and Border Protection website shows changing construction plans, sparking skepticism.
  • Locals are concerned about increased surveillance and the environmental impact of the wall.
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Shock and solidarity after wildfires ravage Fontainebleau

Shock and solidarity after wildfires ravage Fontainebleau

Summary

Large wildfires have damaged parts of the Fontainebleau forest near Paris, France. Firefighters have contained the fires, but they are not fully out yet, and local people are surprised because fires are not common in this area.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires broke out in the Fontainebleau forest region close to Paris.
  • The fires have destroyed large forest areas.
  • Firefighters have managed to contain the blaze but not completely extinguish it.
  • Fontainebleau is an area that usually does not experience forest fires.
  • Local residents are shocked by the event.
  • The report was issued on July 15, 2026.
  • The news was covered by France 24 correspondent Claire Paccalin on site.
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Democrats must return to their pro-labor roots, starting with the grocery store

Democrats must return to their pro-labor roots, starting with the grocery store

Summary

The article says the Democratic Party needs to reconnect with its historical support for workers. It highlights that strong worker rights help build a strong democracy and suggests that presidential candidates should focus on this message.

Key Facts

  • The Democratic Party has moved away from its traditional support of labor.
  • There is a connection between successful workers and a healthy democracy.
  • This idea is important for Democrats running for president in 2028.
  • The article mentions grocery store workers as an example of where this support could begin.
  • The message aims to show how helping workers benefits the whole country.
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Coming July 22: Healthful with Norah O'Donnell

Coming July 22: Healthful with Norah O'Donnell

Summary

Norah O'Donnell is starting a new podcast called Healthful on July 22. The show will focus on women’s health topics like reproductive health, menopause, and cancer. It aims to provide clear and useful information from experts without myths or fear.

Key Facts

  • The podcast launches on July 22.
  • Norah O'Donnell is an award-winning journalist hosting the show.
  • Healthful focuses on women’s health issues often ignored by medicine.
  • Topics include reproductive health, menopause, and cancer.
  • The show features doctors, scientists, and health innovators.
  • It aims to give real, helpful advice without fear or false cures.
  • New episodes will be released every Wednesday.
  • Norah will share some of her personal health tips on the show.
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ICE suspends most vehicle stops during enforcement operations after latest shooting

ICE suspends most vehicle stops during enforcement operations after latest shooting

Summary

ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has ordered its agents to stop most vehicle stops during enforcement operations across the country. This change follows the fatal shooting of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero in Maine while he was in his car.

Key Facts

  • ICE is pausing most vehicle stops during enforcement activities nationwide.
  • The pause comes after a recent fatal shooting involving an individual in a car.
  • The victim was Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero.
  • The shooting happened on a Monday in Maine.
  • This directive applies to ICE agents across the United States.
  • The decision aims to address concerns about safety during such stops.
  • The incident and response were reported by CBS News.
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D.C.-area flights grounded after Trump met with Iraq's prime minister

D.C.-area flights grounded after Trump met with Iraq's prime minister

Summary

Flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were stopped for several hours on Tuesday because of security concerns linked to Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s visit with President Donald Trump and Pentagon officials. This caused disruptions to D.C.-area air travel during that time.

Key Facts

  • Flights were grounded at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Tuesday.
  • The cause was security measures due to the visit of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi.
  • Prime Minister al-Zaidi met with President Donald Trump.
  • The visit also involved meetings with Pentagon officials.
  • The flight disruptions lasted for several hours.
  • The airport is located in the Washington, D.C. area.
  • The security concerns were significant enough to halt flights temporarily.
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Introducing Norah O'Donnell's new health podcast

Introducing Norah O'Donnell's new health podcast

Summary

Norah O'Donnell, a CBS News correspondent, is starting a new weekly podcast called "Healthful" focused on women's health. The show will share useful information about topics like reproductive health, menopause, cancer, and wellness.

Key Facts

  • The podcast is named "Healthful."
  • It launches on July 22.
  • Norah O'Donnell has many years of experience as a news reporter.
  • The podcast will feature doctors, scientists, and health experts.
  • Topics include reproductive health, menopause, cancer, and general wellness.
  • Norah will share some of her personal health tips.
  • Listeners can watch previews on YouTube or listen on podcast platforms.
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Reform UK proposes £100m 'round-the-clock' security plan for MPs

Reform UK proposes £100m 'round-the-clock' security plan for MPs

Summary

Reform UK has proposed a security plan that would provide all 650 Members of Parliament (MPs) with 24-hour protection if the party wins the next election. The plan would also protect former politicians who remain publicly active and is expected to cost up to £100 million. This announcement comes after the murder of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, which has raised concerns about the safety of MPs.

Key Facts

  • Reform UK wants to offer all MPs round-the-clock security.
  • The plan includes protection for former politicians still active in public life.
  • The estimated cost of the security plan is up to £100 million.
  • Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman, was killed in a targeted attack.
  • Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed horror over Widdecombe’s death and called for better protection of democracy.
  • Labour MP Andy Burnham supports a serious review of MPs’ security following the incident.
  • Past funding for MP security was around £4 million per year but responsibility shifted to the House of Commons in April 2023.
  • Reform UK’s spokesman criticized rival parties for harsh language against Reform and emphasized the importance of stopping violence against politicians.
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As the US restarts war on Iran, is its weapons stockpile running low?

As the US restarts war on Iran, is its weapons stockpile running low?

Summary

President Donald Trump is speaking at a defense summit amid renewed US air attacks on Iran that have rapidly used up parts of the US military’s weapon supplies. The conflict resumed after a ceasefire ended, with both sides blaming each other for violations, and the US has reimposed a naval blockade and sanctions on Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Trump will address a defense summit at the US Army War College in Pennsylvania.
  • The US restarted military attacks on Iran last week after an earlier ceasefire collapsed.
  • The US has used up about half of at least four critical types of munitions since the conflict began on February 28.
  • Replenishing the depleted weapon stockpile could take months or years.
  • The renewed conflict started after Iran fired on commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The US reimposed a naval blockade and sanctions on Iran-linked ships.
  • Iran’s military has retaliated with attacks on US bases in several Gulf countries.
  • Over a dozen people, including civilians, have died in Iran since the recent wave of attacks.
  • President Trump threatened to damage Iran’s power plants and bridges unless they negotiate.
  • Analysts warn the shrinking US weapons stockpile could weaken the military in a future conflict, especially against China.
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Heavy rain hits Texas and intense heat impacts parts of U.S.

Heavy rain hits Texas and intense heat impacts parts of U.S.

Summary

Heavy rain is falling in Texas while many parts of the United States are experiencing very hot weather. Heat warnings are in effect from Southern California across to the Northeast.

Key Facts

  • Texas is facing heavy rain, causing wet conditions.
  • Parts of the U.S. are under heat warnings because of high temperatures.
  • The heat warnings extend from Southern California to the Northeast.
  • The weather report was provided by Rob Marciano.
  • These weather events are happening simultaneously across different regions of the U.S.
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Donald Trump endorses 'Pillow Man' Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor

Donald Trump endorses 'Pillow Man' Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor

Summary

President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Mike Lindell, the founder of MyPillow, for governor of Minnesota. Trump praised Lindell as a hard-working patriot and supports his campaign ahead of an upcoming national speech focused on election security.

Key Facts

  • President Trump endorsed Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor.
  • Lindell is the founder of the MyPillow company and is known as the “Pillow Man.”
  • Trump called Lindell “one of America’s greatest and most hard working Patriots.”
  • Lindell has promoted false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.
  • Trump criticized current Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, accusing his government of fraud in federal childcare spending.
  • Trump has used strong language targeting Minnesota’s Somali immigrant community related to these accusations.
  • Lindell and Trump have been political allies, with Lindell supporting Trump publicly.
  • Trump’s endorsement came just before a national address about election security.
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Watch live: Blanche testifies before Senate on attorney general nomination

Watch live: Blanche testifies before Senate on attorney general nomination

Summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee about his nomination to become the permanent Attorney General. He took the acting role after former Attorney General Pam Bondi left the position and has been involved in the Justice Department’s investigation work.

Key Facts

  • Todd Blanche is currently the acting Attorney General.
  • President Donald Trump nominated Blanche to be the permanent Attorney General.
  • Blanche will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday morning.
  • He took over after former Attorney General Pam Bondi left the job.
  • Blanche has played a significant role in Justice Department investigations.
  • The Senate must confirm Blanche before he can officially hold the permanent position.
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Utah man arrested after allegedly targeting Muslim kiosk worker in stabbing

Utah man arrested after allegedly targeting Muslim kiosk worker in stabbing

Summary

A man in Utah was arrested for stabbing a Muslim man at a shopping mall because of his religion. The attacker said he intended to kill Muslims and is considered dangerous by authorities.

Key Facts

  • The stabbing happened at Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah.
  • The victim, who works at a mall kiosk, was stabbed 15 times and is in critical condition.
  • The attacker, 48-year-old Peter Michael Larsen, told police he targeted the victim due to his Muslim faith.
  • Bystanders held the attacker until police arrived.
  • Larsen was charged with attempted murder and illegal weapon possession.
  • The victim needed multiple surgeries after the attack.
  • Muslim groups condemned the attack and noted rising anti-Muslim violence in the US.
  • Previous attacks on Muslims have occurred in recent years, including shootings and stabbings.
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Inside the Vision for Downtown LA’s $2 Billion ‘Urban Village’

Inside the Vision for Downtown LA’s $2 Billion ‘Urban Village’

Summary

A $2 billion development called Fourth & Central in downtown Los Angeles has been approved. It will create over 1,500 homes and focus on walkability, public spaces, and blending with the neighborhood instead of changing the skyline.

Key Facts

  • Fourth & Central is a mixed-use project in downtown Los Angeles costing $2 billion.
  • The project will provide more than 1,500 residential units.
  • It replaces old cold storage facilities, with plans to preserve one historic building if safe.
  • The design aims to create an "urban village" feel with 11 different buildings, not one big tower.
  • The project prioritizes housing, street-level activity, and neighborhood connection over tall skyscrapers.
  • Residents and community groups, especially from Little Tokyo, had concerns about gentrification and alcohol sales.
  • Changes were made to address community worries, including more affordable housing and reduced building height near Little Tokyo.
  • The Little Tokyo Community Council signed a Community Benefits Agreement and stopped opposing the project.
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