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PlayStation Network down, leaving thousands of gamers unable to play

PlayStation Network down, leaving thousands of gamers unable to play

July 24, 2026 • Technology • BBC Tech

Summary

The PlayStation Network experienced a global outage that stopped many gamers from connecting and playing digital games for several hours. Sony acknowledged the problem and said it was working to fix it quickly.

Key Facts

  • Thousands of players worldwide reported issues connecting to PlayStation Network.
  • The outage prevented launching games, apps, and other online features on PlayStation consoles.
  • Some users could still play games from physical discs during the outage.
  • Sony confirmed their services were "experiencing issues" and they were working to resolve them.
  • The disruption happened around the same time as a related server issue reported by Amazon Web Services, which has since been fixed.
  • Sony announced that starting January 2028, new PlayStation games will no longer come on discs but will be sold with digital download codes.
  • This event raised concerns about the future of physical game discs among gamers.
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BBC Tech BBC Top Stories BBC World
Trump expected to attend White House Correspondents' Dinner redo after April attack

Trump expected to attend White House Correspondents' Dinner redo after April attack

July 24, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump is expected to attend a rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner after April's event was stopped due to a gunman being shot by the Secret Service. The new dinner will have heightened security, awards for bravery, and a similar program to the original event.

Key Facts

  • The original White House Correspondents' Dinner in April was interrupted by an armed attacker outside the venue.
  • The Secret Service stopped the gunman by opening fire, preventing harm to attendees.
  • President Trump will speak at the makeup dinner held at a different hotel in Washington, D.C.
  • Security measures are stricter, including QR-coded tickets and government IDs for entry.
  • The Secret Service warned that threat levels have increased by about 40% compared to last year.
  • An award will be given to a Secret Service officer who was hit but protected by his vest during the April incident.
  • The event size will be smaller but the program will closely resemble the original dinner.
  • The White House Correspondents' Association worked closely with the Secret Service and a private security firm to ensure guest safety.
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CBS News
New U.S. tariffs linked to claims of foreign forced labor dismay and anger trading partners

New U.S. tariffs linked to claims of foreign forced labor dismay and anger trading partners

July 24, 2026 • Business • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump has imposed new tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% on goods from 60 countries, citing concerns over forced labor in their supply chains. Several countries, including China, Japan, and Australia, have criticized these tariffs, calling the claims of forced labor unfair and the tariffs unjustified.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. announced tariffs on imports from 60 countries due to alleged use of forced labor in making those goods.
  • The tariff rates are between 10% and 12.5%.
  • These new tariffs replaced previous temporary tariffs that expired early Friday.
  • Australia’s Trade Minister Don Farrell strongly opposed the tariff increase on Australian goods from 10% to 12.5%.
  • Australia exports beef, gold, and copper to the U.S., and disputes claims linking Australian products to forced labor.
  • Australia plans to continue efforts to persuade the U.S. to remove these tariffs.
  • Other countries affected, such as China and Japan, have also voiced objections to the tariffs.
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PBS NewsHour
Romanian jet fighter shoots down suspected Russian drone

Romanian jet fighter shoots down suspected Russian drone

July 24, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A Romanian fighter jet shot down a drone suspected to be Russian after it entered Romania’s airspace. This is the first time Romania has intercepted an intruding aircraft since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened on a Friday and involved a Romanian F-16 jet shooting down the drone.
  • The drone was first detected 20 km east of the Black Sea port of Sulina.
  • Two Italian Eurofighter jets joined two Romanian F-16s before the drone was intercepted.
  • The drone was shot down safely over unpopulated land near the village of Padina.
  • No one was hurt during the interception.
  • Romania has faced dozens of drone incursions since the war in Ukraine started.
  • NATO and EU officials have condemned previous drone incidents in NATO territory.
  • The leader of NATO said Russia’s actions posed danger to all alliance members.
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Al Jazeera
FDA panel considers loosening regulations on certain unapproved peptides

FDA panel considers loosening regulations on certain unapproved peptides

July 24, 2026 • Business • CBS News

Summary

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel met to discuss easing rules on some peptide drugs that are not yet officially approved. On Thursday, the panel voted to allow more access to four specific peptides.

Key Facts

  • The FDA advisory panel is reviewing rules on unapproved peptide drugs.
  • The meeting lasted for two days.
  • On Thursday, the panel voted to expand access to four peptides.
  • Peptides are small chains of amino acids used in medicines and supplements.
  • These peptides currently have restrictions because they are not fully approved by the FDA.
  • The change would let more patients or doctors use these peptides under looser regulations.
  • The FDA panel advises but does not make the final decision.
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CBS News
US records 2,318 measles cases, already surpassing 2025 total

US records 2,318 measles cases, already surpassing 2025 total

July 24, 2026 • Us • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States has reported 2,318 measles cases in 2026, already exceeding the total cases recorded in 2025. Measles, once nearly eliminated, is resurging due to lower vaccination rates and outbreaks in several states.

Key Facts

  • There have been 2,318 measles cases in the U.S. since the start of 2026.
  • The 2025 total was 2,289 cases, the highest in over 30 years.
  • Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 thanks to vaccines.
  • Vaccination rates for kindergartners dropped to 92.5% in the 2024-2025 school year.
  • Large outbreaks are happening in states like South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona.
  • South Carolina reported 997 cases, the biggest outbreak in 35 years there.
  • Experts say a 95% vaccination rate is needed to prevent outbreaks.
  • Vaccines have faced criticism and reduced support under President Donald Trump’s administration.
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Al Jazeera
Meet the "Steel Warriors" melting down knives to empower British teens

Meet the "Steel Warriors" melting down knives to empower British teens

July 24, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

A charity in London melts down knives taken off the streets to make outdoor gym equipment for teenagers. The program helps young people build strength and confidence while promoting a positive lifestyle to reduce youth violence.

Key Facts

  • The charity is called "Steel Warriors" and it transforms seized knives into exercise bars.
  • More than 10 tons of weapons have been turned into gym equipment across London.
  • Teens use these outdoor gyms for free fitness training, focusing on calisthenics (bodyweight exercises).
  • The project aims to encourage youths to stop carrying knives and develop both physical and mental strength.
  • Young participants say the program improves their confidence, wellbeing, and social connections.
  • Coach Demi Alvanis has been training teens for three years and supports spreading calisthenics in schools.
  • The charity uses the slogan "Put Down, Pull Up, Show Up" to inspire positive change.
  • Steel Warriors plans to create more gyms in the U.K. and possibly expand to the United States in the future.
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CBS News
Protests grow as Cockroach Janta Party says talks with government stall

Protests grow as Cockroach Janta Party says talks with government stall

July 24, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Protests in India are increasing as the Cockroach Janta Party says talks with the government have not made progress. Protesters want Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign after an exam paper leak, and other concerns are also being raised.

Key Facts

  • The Cockroach Janta Party is a student protest movement in India.
  • Protesters demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
  • The protests started because of a leaked exam paper.
  • A second round of talks between the protesters and the government did not lead to an agreement.
  • The protests are spreading to different cities, including Mumbai and New Delhi.
  • Police have been accused of using harsh methods against peaceful protesters.
  • The movement has grown quickly and gained influence among India’s youth.
  • Other issues beyond the exam leak are now part of the protest demands.
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France24
'Forever Chemicals' in Tampons? Here's What We Know

'Forever Chemicals' in Tampons? Here's What We Know

July 24, 2026 • Business • Newsweek

Summary

Seven women in California have sued major feminine hygiene companies, claiming their products contain harmful "forever chemicals" that caused serious reproductive health problems. The lawsuit accuses the companies of not testing or warning consumers about these chemicals' risks.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit alleges that tampons, pads, and other menstrual products contain PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," plus endocrine disruptors and carcinogens.
  • Seven women filed the suit, reporting health issues like miscarriages, ovarian syndrome (PMOS), heavy bleeding, and pelvic pain.
  • The companies sued include Procter & Gamble, Kimberly Clark, Prestige Consumer Healthcare, Essity, Edgewell Personal Care, and The Honey Pot Company.
  • One company, Kimberly Clark, requested to move the case from California state court to federal court.
  • A Harvard study linked higher PFAS blood levels during pregnancy to daughters developing PMOS and acne.
  • The women allege the companies failed to properly test products, warn users, or monitor safety.
  • Health conditions described include endometriosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, anemia, and severe chronic pain.
  • The lawsuit is part of a trend with similar legal claims about toxic chemicals in feminine hygiene products made in recent years.
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Newsweek
London teens exercise at outdoor gymnasium made from confiscated knives

London teens exercise at outdoor gymnasium made from confiscated knives

July 24, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

A charity in London is making outdoor gym equipment from knives that were taken from the streets to help reduce youth violence. This outdoor gym encourages teenagers to exercise and stay away from crime.

Key Facts

  • The gym equipment is made from thousands of knives confiscated by the police.
  • The project is based in London and aims to reduce youth violence.
  • The gym is called "Steel Warriors."
  • The equipment is placed outdoors where teens can use it for exercise.
  • The charity hopes that physical activity will provide a positive alternative to violence.
  • The initiative transforms dangerous weapons into something useful for the community.
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CBS News
Democrats' 2028 presidential primary schedule discussion exposes party divisions

Democrats' 2028 presidential primary schedule discussion exposes party divisions

July 24, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Democrats are meeting to decide the schedule for their 2028 presidential primary elections. The decision will influence which candidates gain an early advantage in the race.

Key Facts

  • The Democratic Party is planning the sequence of primary elections for 2028.
  • The primary schedule affects which candidates get early support.
  • This meeting has revealed disagreements within the party on how to set the schedule.
  • The primary contests help determine which candidate eventually becomes the party's nominee.
  • Early state primaries often have a big impact on candidate momentum.
  • CBS News reporter Zak Hudak covered the story.
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CBS News
Data Center Projects Face 'Unprecedented Surge' in Blocks and Delays: Study

Data Center Projects Face 'Unprecedented Surge' in Blocks and Delays: Study

July 24, 2026 • Business • Newsweek

Summary

Data center projects in the U.S. faced a high number of delays and blocks in early 2026, with about 75 projects worth $130 billion affected in just three months. Opposition to these projects has grown quickly, spreading to nearly all states and focusing on concerns like energy use and community impacts.

Key Facts

  • At least 75 data center projects were blocked or delayed in the first quarter of 2026.
  • These projects represent about $130 billion in investment.
  • Opposition groups against data centers increased from 396 at the end of 2025 to 833 by March 2026.
  • Opposition groups exist in 49 states across the U.S.
  • More than 300 state-level bills related to data centers were introduced in early 2026.
  • 14 states proposed statewide moratoriums to pause new data center construction.
  • Communities have raised issues about electricity use, water demand, noise, and local benefits of data centers.
  • New York paused the building of large data centers for one year due to concerns including energy costs and environmental impacts.
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Newsweek
Trump Warns of 'Massive Attack' on Iran Amid Questions Over Endgame

Trump Warns of 'Massive Attack' on Iran Amid Questions Over Endgame

July 24, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

President Donald Trump warned of a "massive attack" against Iran amid ongoing U.S. military strikes targeting Iranian forces. The U.S. aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for shipping and reduce threats from Iran's military, but experts say there is no clear military solution to stopping Iran’s nuclear program.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has carried out 13 nights of consecutive bombing against Iranian military targets.
  • President Trump suggested a much larger military attack on Iran might be coming but gave no specific details.
  • Iran-backed Houthis have attacked shipping routes in the Red Sea, leading the U.S. to respond militarily.
  • The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for world energy supplies, is a key focus for the U.S. to keep open.
  • There was a June 17 agreement to pause conflict and allow $24 billion of Iranian frozen assets to be released, along with talks on Iran's nuclear program.
  • Experts say U.S. strikes have harmed Iran’s conventional military but not significantly slowed its nuclear activities.
  • Military analysts believe further military damage is possible but a purely military solution to Iran’s nuclear ambitions is unlikely.
  • The U.S. aims to avoid full regime collapse or total surrender as those goals would be difficult to achieve.
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Newsweek
Heatwave reveals lost archaeological sites across Wales

Heatwave reveals lost archaeological sites across Wales

July 24, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A long period of hot and dry weather in Wales has revealed many hidden ancient sites in grasslands. These include Roman buildings, World War One practice trenches, and other historic remains that are usually hidden underground and only visible from the air.

Key Facts

  • Wales had about 5% of its normal rainfall in July, with very dry conditions since mid-May.
  • Heatwaves and drought have made buried archaeological sites visible through marks in crops and grass.
  • These crop marks appear because plants grow greener where old ditches trapped water and nutrients.
  • Some sites seen now have not been visible for 20 or 30 years.
  • Discoveries include prehistoric long barrows, Roman forts at Caerhun, and World War One practice trenches in Deganwy.
  • Archaeologist Dr. Toby Driver uses aerial photography to record these sites before the marks vanish.
  • Digital image processing helps reveal faint crop marks that are hard to see with the naked eye.
  • The dry weather has made these archaeological features visible each year instead of every five to seven years as before.
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BBC Top Stories
Outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite linked to 4 more states

Outbreak of diarrhea-causing parasite linked to 4 more states

July 24, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Federal health officials report that a parasite causing diarrhea, linked to shredded lettuce from Taco Bell restaurants, has spread to four more states. The total number of affected states in this outbreak is now nine.

Key Facts

  • The parasite causes diarrhea and is named cyclospora.
  • The outbreak originally involved Taco Bell restaurants.
  • Four new states added: Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania.
  • The outbreak previously affected Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is leading the investigation.
  • This is the largest cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. to date.
  • The spread is linked specifically to shredded lettuce served at Taco Bell.
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PBS NewsHour
"The child is terrified": Doctors on front lines of measles comeback speak out

"The child is terrified": Doctors on front lines of measles comeback speak out

July 24, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Measles cases in the U.S. have reached a 35-year high by mid-2026, with more cases in the past two years than in the previous 25 years combined. Low vaccination rates are causing longer outbreaks, serious illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths, leading health experts to say that the U.S. no longer meets the criteria for having eliminated measles.

Key Facts

  • Confirmed measles cases have hit their highest level in 35 years as of July 2026.
  • The combined number of cases in 2025 and 2026 is greater than the total from the previous 25 years.
  • The main cause of outbreaks is low and declining vaccination rates within the country.
  • The U.S. has lost its measles elimination status, which requires outbreaks to end within one year.
  • Utah has had an ongoing outbreak since June 2025, lasting more than one year.
  • Nearly 400 people have been hospitalized due to measles in the last two years.
  • Three people have died from measles, and at least three others suffer brain swelling with lasting effects.
  • Pediatric doctors report severe symptoms in unvaccinated children, including breathing difficulties and dehydration.
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CBS News
There are already more U.S. measles cases this year than in all of 2025

There are already more U.S. measles cases this year than in all of 2025

July 24, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The United States has already reported more measles cases in 2026 than in all of 2025. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 2,318 cases so far this year, with major outbreaks in several states.

Key Facts

  • There have been 2,318 measles cases in the U.S. in 2026 so far.
  • The total cases in 2025 were 2,289, the highest in over 30 years.
  • 2026 is now the worst year for measles in the U.S. since 1991.
  • Major outbreaks occurred in South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona.
  • Smaller groups of cases have appeared in other states across the country.
  • The CDC is tracking and reporting these measles cases regularly.
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PBS NewsHour
Romania shoots down unidentified drone breaching its airspace

Romania shoots down unidentified drone breaching its airspace

July 24, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

A Romanian fighter jet shot down a drone that entered Romania’s airspace on Friday. This is the first time Romania, a member of NATO, has taken such action. The drone was spotted 20 km east of Sulina, a town near the Black Sea close to Russian and Ukrainian borders.

Key Facts

  • Romania is a NATO member country.
  • A drone entered Romanian airspace near Sulina, a town by the Black Sea.
  • Sulina is close to the borders of Russia and Ukraine.
  • The drone was detected by radar before being shot down.
  • A Romanian fighter jet was responsible for shooting down the drone.
  • This is the first time Romania has shot down a drone violating its airspace.
  • The incident happened on a Friday (exact date not specified).
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The Hill
Is Lucid Dreaming the Next Frontier of Human Consciousness?

Is Lucid Dreaming the Next Frontier of Human Consciousness?

July 24, 2026 • Technology • Newsweek

Summary

Researchers at Northwestern University found that light sound signals during REM sleep can guide dreams toward specific problems, helping people solve them the next day. A company called Prophetic is developing wearable devices to study and possibly influence brain activity during sleep, especially related to lucid dreaming, where people know they are dreaming while asleep.

Key Facts

  • Scientists used subtle sounds during REM sleep to direct dreams toward puzzles.
  • About 75% of participants dreamed about the targeted problems.
  • Those who dreamed of the puzzles were more likely to solve them afterward.
  • Prophetic is creating headband devices to study and influence brain activity during sleep.
  • These devices use low-intensity focused ultrasound and EEG sensors to monitor and stimulate the brain.
  • Lucid dreaming means being aware you are dreaming while still asleep.
  • The goal is to explore if technology can help people interact consciously with their dreams.
  • This work is experimental and aims to better understand how brain activity relates to sleep and awareness.
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Newsweek
Karen Bass' Chances in LA Mayor Race as Homelessness Rises in City

Karen Bass' Chances in LA Mayor Race as Homelessness Rises in City

July 24, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

Homelessness in Los Angeles increased by 3.4 percent in 2025, adding challenges for Mayor Karen Bass as she competes for reelection against Nithya Raman. The rise includes a 7.9 percent increase in people living outdoors or in vehicles, fueling debate over how to best address this issue in the city.

Key Facts

  • Homelessness in Los Angeles rose 3.4 percent in 2025, reaching 45,194 people.
  • The number of people living outside or in cars went up by 7.9 percent.
  • Mayor Karen Bass and challenger Nithya Raman both want to reduce homelessness but differ on how to do it.
  • Bass blames federal and state funding cuts, including those during President Trump’s administration, for worsening homelessness.
  • Nithya Raman argues that current city leadership has not done enough to move homeless people into permanent housing.
  • Bass’s homelessness program Inside Safe was criticized for a 40 percent rate of participants returning to the street.
  • Both Bass and Raman are Democrats; Raman is considered more progressive.
  • Polls show a close race, but prediction markets currently favor Bass to win reelection.
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Newsweek