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UK mortgage rates rise to highest level for a month

UK mortgage rates rise to highest level for a month

July 23, 2026 • Business • BBC Business

Summary

UK mortgage rates have increased to the highest level seen in a month. This rise is mainly due to worries about ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, which have affected markets and raised the cost for banks to lend money.

Key Facts

  • UK mortgage rates went up recently after falling for a short time.
  • The increase is linked to tensions and attacks in the Middle East.
  • Higher oil prices, reaching $100 a barrel, raise inflation concerns.
  • Banks are less likely to cut interest rates because of the conflict.
  • The average two-year fixed mortgage rate is now 5.58%.
  • The average five-year fixed mortgage rate is about 5.6%.
  • Over 80% of UK mortgage holders have fixed-rate deals.
  • Experts advise locking in mortgage rates now and consulting brokers for the best options.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
We split bills equally even when one of us earned a lot more

We split bills equally even when one of us earned a lot more

July 23, 2026 • Business • BBC Business

Summary

Hannah and Max share all their money in a joint account and split bills equally, even though Max earns more. When Max lost his job, they adjusted their spending and Max started a pizza truck business funded by his redundancy package, which now generates monthly income.

Key Facts

  • Hannah works in charity and earns less than Max, who works in tech and previously earned £70,000 a year.
  • They put both their salaries into one joint account to pay all shared expenses equally.
  • Each partner takes the same amount of money monthly for personal spending with no oversight from the other.
  • Max was made redundant, so they reviewed their budget and cut non-essential expenses.
  • Max used £20,000 from his redundancy pay to start a pizza truck business.
  • The business serves weddings, parties, and pop-ups, and makes £4,000 to £6,000 per month.
  • Max pays himself a salary from the business that covers their mortgage.
  • The couple talks openly about money, contrasting their different family experiences with finances.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Trump hosts champion Dodgers at White House as some players stay away

Trump hosts champion Dodgers at White House as some players stay away

July 23, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump hosted the Los Angeles Dodgers at the White House to celebrate their World Series win. Some players attended and received gifts, while others chose not to come due to personal reasons and political concerns.

Key Facts

  • The Dodgers visited the White House for their second time in two years.
  • President Trump received a custom jersey and a replica championship ring from the team.
  • Players like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and manager Dave Roberts attended.
  • Star players Mookie Betts and Kike Hernández did not attend the event.
  • Hernández cited injury rehab and opposed recent political actions in Los Angeles.
  • Trump praised several Dodgers players but mixed up some details in his speech.
  • The Dodgers’ invitation and visit followed the tradition of champions visiting the White House, though some teams have declined in recent years.
  • Other championship teams, such as the Olympic US men’s hockey team and NHL’s Florida Panthers, have also been hosted by the Trump administration.
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Guardian US
Fetterman labels Mamdani ‘clown’ over Netanyahu arrest threat

Fetterman labels Mamdani ‘clown’ over Netanyahu arrest threat

July 23, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Senator John Fetterman criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after Mamdani suggested the idea of arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over war crimes allegations. Fetterman called Mamdani a "clown" and reminded him that he is a mayor, implying Mamdani should focus on local issues.

Key Facts

  • Senator John Fetterman is a Democrat from Pennsylvania.
  • New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is also a Democrat.
  • Mamdani proposed the idea of arresting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for alleged war crimes.
  • Fetterman disagreed strongly and called Mamdani a "clown" during a Fox News interview.
  • Fetterman emphasized that Mamdani is a mayor and should focus on his city.
  • The discussion took place during an interview on Sean Hannity’s show.
  • The issue involves allegations of war crimes linked to Netanyahu.
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The Hill
Earnings at Musk's Tesla fall as spending on research cuts into profit from selling cars

Earnings at Musk's Tesla fall as spending on research cuts into profit from selling cars

July 23, 2026 • Business • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Tesla's profits dropped in the second quarter because the company spent a lot more on research and development, even though car sales increased sharply. Tesla made $1.11 billion in profit and revenue rose 26%, but earnings per share were below Wall Street expectations due to higher spending on new technologies like robotaxis and robots.

Key Facts

  • Tesla's second-quarter net income was $1.11 billion, or 32 cents per share.
  • Revenue increased 26% to $28.24 billion, exceeding analysts' predictions.
  • Earnings per share, excluding some items, were 33 cents, lower than the expected 53 cents.
  • Research and development spending rose 49% to $2.37 billion compared to last year.
  • Tesla plans to increase spending on factories, robotaxis, AI systems, and the Optimus humanoid robot over the next 2-3 years.
  • Tesla delivered 480,216 cars in the second quarter, a 25% increase from last year.
  • The Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscription service has nearly 1.5 million users worldwide.
  • Tesla started production of the Cybercab in Texas and aims to begin Tesla Semi production this year in Nevada.
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PBS NewsHour
ChatGPT solved cybersecurity task that typically takes weeks in about 8 hours, expert says

ChatGPT solved cybersecurity task that typically takes weeks in about 8 hours, expert says

July 23, 2026 • Technology • CBS News

Summary

New research from a cybersecurity company shows that artificial intelligence (AI) models, like ChatGPT, can complete complex cybersecurity tasks much faster than before. One expert said that a task that usually takes weeks was solved by ChatGPT in about 8 hours.

Key Facts

  • ChatGPT is an AI model that can work on multi-part problems.
  • Cybersecurity tasks often take weeks to complete manually.
  • In recent tests, ChatGPT completed a cybersecurity task in roughly 8 hours.
  • This shows AI models are improving in handling complex challenges.
  • Gabriel Bernadett-Shapiro, an AI research scientist at SentinelOne, was involved in the project.
  • The findings suggest AI could speed up work in cybersecurity fields.
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CBS News
Trump threatens 'major military punishment' after Houthi attacks on tankers in Red Sea

Trump threatens 'major military punishment' after Houthi attacks on tankers in Red Sea

July 23, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Houthi rebels in Yemen said they attacked two oil tankers in the Red Sea, causing oil prices to rise above $100 per barrel. President Trump warned the United States would respond with strong military action if another tanker is attacked and also raised concerns about possible conflict with Iran.

Key Facts

  • Houthi rebels in Yemen attacked two oil tankers in the Red Sea.
  • This caused international oil prices to rise above $100 per barrel.
  • President Trump threatened "major military punishment" if another tanker is attacked.
  • The Red Sea is a key route for global oil shipments.
  • President Trump warned of potential escalation involving Iran.
  • The attacks raise fears of disruptions to global energy supplies.
  • The situation increases tensions in the region affecting international relations.
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PBS NewsHour
FDA panel loosens restrictions for controversial peptides popular online

FDA panel loosens restrictions for controversial peptides popular online

July 23, 2026 • Us • BBC US

Summary

A US FDA advisory panel voted to ease rules on certain peptides like BPC-157, TB-500, and KPV, allowing specialized pharmacies to produce them for prescription use. These peptides are popular online but lack thorough human safety studies, and health experts warn about unknown risks.

Key Facts

  • The FDA panel narrowly approved loosening restrictions on some peptides, which are small proteins the body naturally makes.
  • Peptides like BPC-157 and KPV are popular in online wellness communities for claims about healing, muscle building, and skin improvement, though these claims are unproven.
  • Specialized pharmacies, called compound pharmacies, would be allowed to make these peptides if rules change.
  • The FDA does not have to follow the advisory panel but often does.
  • Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy supports easing these peptide restrictions, reversing previous limits set during the Biden administration.
  • Peptides like BPC-157 have been studied in animals but lack extensive human trials, leading to safety concerns from experts.
  • These peptides are banned in sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency due to unknown safety and effects.
  • Some panel members voted against approving peptides citing lack of data, while others supported medical freedom and broader access.
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BBC US BBC Top Stories
Former U.S. diplomat breaks down Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping

Former U.S. diplomat breaks down Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping

July 23, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A former U.S. diplomat, Timothy Lenderking, discussed the Houthi group's attempts to block shipping in the Red Sea. He has experience as a special envoy to Yemen and worked in U.S. government roles related to the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • Timothy Lenderking is a former U.S. diplomat focused on Yemen and the Near East.
  • He served as special envoy to Yemen during his government career.
  • Lenderking also worked as acting assistant secretary for Near East Affairs.
  • He now works at the law firm Squire Patton Boggs.
  • The discussion centers on Houthi attacks targeting shipping routes in the Red Sea.
  • Houthis are a group involved in conflict in Yemen and the surrounding region.
  • Blocking Red Sea shipping affects trade and international maritime traffic.
  • The interview aims to provide expert insight into the regional security situation.
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PBS NewsHour
Arab and Muslim countries condemn Israeli storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque

Arab and Muslim countries condemn Israeli storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque

July 23, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Eight Arab and Muslim-majority countries criticized the entry of Israeli settlers and far-right groups into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem. They condemned the Israeli police for protecting the actions and called for Israel to stop restricting access to this important religious site.

Key Facts

  • The countries condemning the incident are Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and the United Arab Emirates.
  • More than 4,200 Israeli settlers and far-right groups entered the Al-Aqsa Mosque area on a Jewish day of mourning called Tisha B’Av.
  • Israeli police protected the settlers and blocked many Palestinian worshippers and students from entering.
  • Israel captured East Jerusalem in 1967 and annexed it in 1980, but this annexation is not recognized internationally.
  • The International Court of Justice ruled in 2024 that Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem is illegal.
  • The Jerusalem Waqf, appointed by Jordan, manages the Al-Aqsa Mosque under an agreed “status quo.”
  • The joint statement called the storming a violation of this status quo and an attempt to change the site's history and legal status.
  • The countries urged Israel to lift restrictions and asked the international community to ensure Israel respects the holy sites.
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Al Jazeera
News Wrap: Trump announces new tariffs on dozens of countries

News Wrap: Trump announces new tariffs on dozens of countries

July 23, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Trump announced new tariffs on many countries, starting right after an earlier set of tariffs ends. In other news, there are tensions in Madison, Wisconsin, after a man with a knife was fatally shot by police, and the person who killed Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman was sentenced to life in prison.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is putting new tariffs in place on dozens of countries.
  • These new tariffs start immediately after a previous set of tariffs ends.
  • There are high tensions in Madison, Wisconsin, because of a police shooting involving a man with a knife.
  • The man who killed Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman received a life prison sentence.
  • The article covers separate, important news events happening in the U.S.
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PBS NewsHour
House GOP's parting message for Senate on reconciliation

House GOP's parting message for Senate on reconciliation

July 23, 2026 • Us • Axios

Summary

House Republican leaders urge Senate Republicans to quickly consider a $95 billion reconciliation package before November, despite Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s plan to delay action until after government funding issues are resolved. The package includes funding for the Iran war, farm aid, and parts of the SAVE America Act, which only requires a simple majority to pass in the Senate.

Key Facts

  • House GOP leaders want the Senate to act fast on a $95 billion reconciliation bill.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune prefers to wait until government funding is settled before considering the budget plan.
  • The reconciliation bill includes money for the war in Iran, support for farmers, and elements of the SAVE America Act.
  • The SAVE America Act is favored by House conservatives and could pass without a filibuster due to the simple majority rule.
  • House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said the White House is expected to increase pressure on the Senate.
  • White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump’s patience with Thune is running out.
  • Thune says he does not have enough votes to pass the SAVE America Act.
  • Some House conservatives accuse Thune of not seriously working on advancing the SAVE America Act.
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Axios
Former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison makes his case for keeping South Carolina as first 2028 primary

Former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison makes his case for keeping South Carolina as first 2028 primary

July 23, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Jaime Harrison, the former chair of the Democratic National Committee, spoke in favor of keeping South Carolina as the first primary state in the 2028 Democratic presidential primary calendar. There is a debate within the Democratic Party about whether South Carolina or Nevada should hold the first primary in 2028.

Key Facts

  • Jaime Harrison is the former chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
  • He supports South Carolina remaining the first primary state in 2028.
  • Some members of the Democratic Party want Nevada to be the first primary instead.
  • The order of primary states is important because it can influence the presidential nomination process.
  • The debate about the 2028 primary calendar shows differences within the Democratic Party.
  • Primary elections happen before the main election and help choose each party’s candidate for president.
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CBS News
Senate preparing to vote on Russia sanctions next week

Senate preparing to vote on Russia sanctions next week

July 23, 2026 • Us • Axios

Summary

The Senate is preparing to vote next week on a sanctions bill targeting Russia, which now also includes sanctions on Iran at President Donald Trump’s request. The bill has bipartisan support and honors the late Senator Lindsey Graham, who worked on it before his death.

Key Facts

  • Democrats and Republicans plan to vote soon on a Russia sanctions package in the Senate.
  • President Trump asked that Iran be added to the sanctions bill, and this has been included.
  • The bill has more than 60 cosponsors from both parties.
  • Senators reduced some tariffs in the bill from 500% to 100% and limited the number of countries Trump can sanction.
  • Senator Lindsey Graham worked hard on the bill before he passed away on July 11.
  • Senate leaders John Thune (Republican) and Chuck Schumer (Democrat) are cooperating on this bill.
  • Some Democrats worry the bill gives President Trump too much power to impose tariffs.
  • The Senate is also working on avoiding a government shutdown and other legislation like the crypto bill.
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Axios
US health panel recommends easing restrictions on controversial peptides

US health panel recommends easing restrictions on controversial peptides

July 23, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

A US health advisory panel narrowly voted to recommend loosening restrictions on some peptides, chemicals used by wellness influencers, despite warnings that these peptides have not been proven safe or effective. The panel’s advice could lead the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to allow pharmacies to prepare and sell these peptides more widely.

Key Facts

  • The panel voted 8-6, with one abstention, to advise the FDA to ease limits on peptides like BPC-157, TB-500, and KPV.
  • These peptides are injectable substances popular on social media for supposed wellness and cosmetic benefits.
  • FDA scientists warned there is little evidence these peptides are safe or work well for medical use.
  • The panel included new members who have ties to the peptide industry, such as doctors and pharmacists.
  • The FDA does not have to follow the panel’s advice but often does.
  • Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. supports easing peptide restrictions and wants to reverse rules set during the previous administration.
  • Some medical experts call the peptide market a “wild west” because many products are unregulated and unproven, posing possible health risks.
  • Peptides are parts of proteins that play roles in body functions, and some are approved medicines, but many sold online lack scientific support.
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Guardian US Guardian World
Trump reluctant to pressure China after claiming election interference

Trump reluctant to pressure China after claiming election interference

July 23, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump claimed that China interfered in U.S. elections but seemed hesitant to confront China about it directly. Meanwhile, Democrats have expressed worries about the president's attention on election interference and his possible actions before the midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • President Trump accused China of interfering in U.S. elections.
  • Trump was asked if he would address this issue directly with China.
  • He appeared reluctant to pressure China on this matter.
  • Democrats are concerned about the president’s focus on election interference.
  • They worry about what Trump and his supporters might do before the midterm elections.
  • The issue is part of broader debates about foreign interference in U.S. elections.
  • The report was provided by Liz Landers, a journalist covering the topic.
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PBS NewsHour
Rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner will have tighter security, fewer guests

Rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner will have tighter security, fewer guests

July 23, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

The White House Correspondents' Dinner has been rescheduled for Friday with stronger security and fewer guests. The event was originally stopped in April after a man tried to enter with a gun and opened fire near the security checkpoint.

Key Facts

  • The White House Correspondents' Dinner was postponed after a gunman opened fire at the security checkpoint in April.
  • The Secret Service is increasing security measures for the rescheduled event.
  • The new date for the dinner is this Friday.
  • Fewer guests will be allowed to attend the event this time.
  • The White House Correspondents' Association, led by CBS News correspondent Weijia Jiang, is involved in organizing the dinner.
  • The dinner is a traditional gathering for journalists who cover the White House.
  • The extra security is a response to the previous shooting incident to ensure safety.
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CBS News
Indian activist ends 26-day hunger strike, though student protests continue

Indian activist ends 26-day hunger strike, though student protests continue

July 23, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk stopped a 26-day hunger strike after talks with government ministers about leaked medical exam papers. However, student protests demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and broader reforms are continuing in several Indian cities.

Key Facts

  • Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike on July 24, 2026, after discussions with government officials.
  • The hunger strike was in response to leaked medical school entrance exam papers affecting around 2 million students.
  • The leaked exam papers are linked to several student suicides.
  • Student-led protests are being organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
  • Protests have spread to multiple cities including Delhi, Ranchi, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kolkata.
  • Authorities shut down 16 metro stations in central Delhi and restricted mobile internet to manage protests.
  • Opposition parties have supported the youth protests and disrupted the Indian parliament session.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged Wangchuk to regain his health and urged protesters to join talks with the government.
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France24
GOP House Judiciary chair issues criminal referral against Jack Smith

GOP House Judiciary chair issues criminal referral against Jack Smith

July 23, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

The GOP chair of the House Judiciary Committee has filed a criminal referral against Jack Smith, the special counsel who investigated President Donald Trump’s actions following the 2020 election. This means that Jack Smith could now face a criminal investigation by the Justice Department.

Key Facts

  • Jack Smith is a special counsel who worked on prosecuting President Trump for actions after the 2020 election.
  • The GOP House Judiciary chair has issued a criminal referral against Jack Smith.
  • A criminal referral is a request to the Justice Department to investigate or take legal action.
  • This referral could lead to Jack Smith becoming a target of a Justice Department investigation.
  • The news was reported by CBS News and their homeland security correspondent, Nicole Sganga.
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CBS News
The implications of the U.S.-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal

The implications of the U.S.-Saudi Arabia nuclear deal

July 23, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump signed a nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia that depends on Saudi Arabia starting official diplomatic relations with Israel. Saudi Arabia has so far refused to establish these diplomatic ties.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Saudi Arabia signed a nuclear agreement.
  • President Trump said the agreement requires Saudi Arabia to have diplomatic relations with Israel.
  • Saudi Arabia has not agreed to establish diplomatic relations with Israel.
  • The deal was discussed on CBS News by foreign affairs experts.
  • The agreement is related to nuclear cooperation, which means sharing nuclear technology and resources.
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CBS News