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US blocks Iranian missile barrage as pause in fighting falters | First Thing

US blocks Iranian missile barrage as pause in fighting falters | First Thing

July 29, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

The US military intercepted all Iranian missiles launched at US forces in the Middle East and worked with Saudi Arabia to strike militia sites in Iraq. These attacks ended a short pause in fighting between the US and Iran. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with President Trump in Washington for talks.

Key Facts

  • Iran fired ballistic missiles at US forces in the Middle East on Tuesday.
  • The US military said all Iranian missiles were intercepted by defense systems.
  • The US and Saudi forces struck militia sites in Iraq linked to Tehran.
  • The missile attack happened during Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit to Washington.
  • Netanyahu and President Trump held a private meeting for nearly 90 minutes.
  • The US sees the missile attack as a surprise attempt by Iran to escalate fighting.
  • Closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict poses risks to global marine life by potentially spreading invasive species.
  • President Trump also met Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy on the same day to discuss defense and diplomacy.
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Guardian World Guardian US
WATCH: EBay to pay nearly $56M to couple over stalking lawsuit

WATCH: EBay to pay nearly $56M to couple over stalking lawsuit

July 29, 2026 • Business • ABC News

Summary

EBay will pay nearly $56 million to David and Ina Steiner after they sued the company. The couple said eBay allowed people to stalk and emotionally harm them to stop their reporting about the company.

Key Facts

  • David and Ina Steiner filed a lawsuit against eBay.
  • They claimed eBay let a group harass them to stop their reporting.
  • The harassment included emotional and psychological harm.
  • A court decided in favor of the Steiners.
  • EBay will pay nearly $56 million in damages.
  • The case is about stalking connected to eBay’s actions or lack of control.
  • The settlement covers harm caused over time, not just one incident.
  • The legal action highlights issues with online company responsibility.
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ABC News
WATCH: Pepper-spraying drones to help stop school shooters sparks debate

WATCH: Pepper-spraying drones to help stop school shooters sparks debate

July 29, 2026 • Technology • ABC News

Summary

Several schools in the United States plan to use drones equipped with pepper spray to help protect students during school shooting incidents. This new safety measure has led to discussions and differing opinions.

Key Facts

  • Schools are preparing to install drones that can spray pepper spray to stop active shooters.
  • The drones are part of a new effort to improve student safety.
  • Pepper spray causes temporary irritation, which can help disable a shooter without causing permanent harm.
  • The idea has sparked debate among schools, parents, and experts.
  • The use of drones in security is increasing in various areas, including schools.
  • This solution aims to provide a quick response to dangerous situations inside school buildings.
  • Some people question the safety and effectiveness of using pepper-spraying drones in schools.
  • The discussion reflects ongoing concerns about school shootings and how to best protect students.
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ABC News
One Group of Americans May Face Different Alzheimer's Risks, Study Finds

One Group of Americans May Face Different Alzheimer's Risks, Study Finds

July 29, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

New research shows that South Asian Americans might have different risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease compared to other groups. The study highlights that managing diabetes, heart health, vision, hearing, and social connections could help reduce dementia risk in this community.

Key Facts

  • South Asian Americans are underrepresented in Alzheimer’s research in the U.S.
  • Review of studies from India suggests South Asians face unique genetic and health risks for dementia.
  • Diabetes and metabolic health issues are especially important for dementia risk in South Asians.
  • South Asians may develop diabetes earlier and at lower body weight than other groups.
  • Diabetes in South Asians may involve different causes and respond differently to treatments.
  • Limited education may raise dementia risk more in South Asians compared to the world average.
  • Vision and hearing loss are common and linked to higher dementia risk in South Asian populations.
  • Preventing dementia may require early and specific management of heart and metabolic health for South Asians.
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Newsweek
Ukraine says it hit a major Russian oil refinery, hours after Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump

Ukraine says it hit a major Russian oil refinery, hours after Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump

July 29, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

Ukraine said it struck a major Russian oil refinery called Ryazan using drones, causing fires and hospitalizing six people. This attack happened hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss support against Russia.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine attacked the Ryazan oil refinery in Russia overnight with drones and missiles.
  • Ryazan refinery produces gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, and other petroleum products.
  • The refinery can process about 17 million tons of oil each year.
  • The attack caused fires and six people were hospitalized due to drone debris.
  • Ryazan is located about 400 kilometers (180 miles) from Ukraine’s border.
  • President Zelenskyy met President Trump in Washington the same day to talk about U.S. support.
  • Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil facilities have caused a fuel crisis in Russia.
  • Zelenskyy emphasized increasing pressure on Russia to end the war sooner.
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AP News
‘Super Troopers’ at 25: A quarter-century of mustaches and maple syrup — and a new film

‘Super Troopers’ at 25: A quarter-century of mustaches and maple syrup — and a new film

July 29, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

The comedy group Broken Lizard is celebrating 25 years since their movie "Super Troopers" first came out. The original film, made for less than $3 million, became a cult favorite, and now they have released a third movie in the series. The group, made up of college friends, continues to make movies together, showing strong friendship and teamwork.

Key Facts

  • "Super Troopers" was first released in 2001 and made about $23 million in theaters.
  • The movie was created by Broken Lizard, a group of college friends from Colgate University.
  • The film features a team of funny Vermont state troopers and was directed by Jay Chandrasekhar.
  • The original movie became popular on VHS and DVD, turning into a cult hit.
  • Broken Lizard has made several movies since then, including "Super Troopers 2" in 2018.
  • They used crowdfunding to help finance "Super Troopers 2."
  • "Super Troopers 3" is set to be released by Searchlight Pictures on August 7, 2026.
  • The group values their long-term friendship as a key part of their movies’ charm.
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AP News
EU crisis chief urges tougher climate action amid France, Spain wildfires

EU crisis chief urges tougher climate action amid France, Spain wildfires

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The European Union’s crisis chief says the EU must act faster and invest more in fighting climate change as wildfires continue in France and Spain. Both countries are facing heatwaves that increase fire risks, leading to large evacuations.

Key Facts

  • France and Spain are dealing with serious wildfires during a heatwave.
  • About 330,000 people have been evacuated: 220,000 in France and 110,000 in Spain.
  • The worst fires in France are in the Gironde region, where over 42,000 hectares have burned.
  • Temperatures in the affected areas could reach up to 42°C (108°F), raising fire dangers.
  • The EU wants more money for climate action, better education on fire risks, and improved forest care.
  • Europe is warming faster than other continents, increasing health and economic risks.
  • Spain’s weather agency warns of “very high” or “extreme” wildfire risk in most of the country.
  • Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez criticized climate denial as very harmful during this crisis.
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Al Jazeera
Russia charges Telegram founder Pavel Durov with ‘aiding terrorism’

Russia charges Telegram founder Pavel Durov with ‘aiding terrorism’

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Russian authorities have charged Pavel Durov, the founder of the messaging app Telegram, with helping terrorism and issued an international arrest warrant for him. Russia says Telegram did not remove channels used by groups that planned attacks in Russia.

Key Facts

  • Pavel Durov co-founded Telegram, an encrypted messaging app.
  • Russia’s FSB security agency accused Telegram of allowing terrorist-related channels to operate.
  • The charges claim these channels were used to prepare attacks like sabotage, killings, and cyber-fraud in Russia.
  • Telegram’s official response included a photo of Durov making a rude gesture after the charges were announced.
  • Russia is restricting apps like Telegram and WhatsApp while promoting its own messaging app, MAX, which shares data with the government and lacks strong encryption.
  • Pavel Durov was born in Russia but now has passports from the UAE and France.
  • Russia previously pressured Durov to give access to pro-democracy activists’ data, which he refused.
  • Durov also faces a legal investigation in France related to Telegram’s handling of criminal content.
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Al Jazeera
Greggs sales jump as iced matcha lattes and chicken rolls become heatwave hits

Greggs sales jump as iced matcha lattes and chicken rolls become heatwave hits

July 29, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

Greggs, the UK bakery chain, increased its sales and profits in the first half of the year thanks to new stores and popular new products like iced matcha lattes and chicken rolls. The company opened 34 new shops, improved its menu with healthier options, and expanded its frozen product range sold in supermarkets.

Key Facts

  • Greggs’ total sales reached £1.1 billion from January to June, up 7.2% compared to last year.
  • The chain opened 34 new stores, bringing the total to 2,773 locations in the UK.
  • Sales in existing stores grew by 2.1% during the same period.
  • Pre-tax profit rose nearly 20% to £76 million in the first half of the year.
  • New menu items such as iced matcha lattes, a chicken roll, and salads helped attract customers.
  • Greggs expanded its “bake at home” frozen products in Tesco and Iceland supermarkets.
  • The company aims to keep opening stores and offering convenient ways for customers to buy their products.
  • Greggs is balancing price increases and cost control to keep customers during economic challenges.
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Guardian World
4 takeaways from Fauci's journals ahead of his Senate testimony

4 takeaways from Fauci's journals ahead of his Senate testimony

July 29, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

Dr. Anthony Fauci will testify before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, chaired by Senator Rand Paul. Paul has released over 1,100 pages of Fauci’s private journals from 2019 to 2022 and accuses Fauci of misleading the public about COVID-19. Fauci was subpoenaed to explain his role in the pandemic response, but he is protected from prosecution by a pardon from President Biden.

Key Facts

  • Senator Rand Paul chairs the Senate committee where Fauci will testify.
  • Paul accuses Fauci of deceiving Americans about the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Over 1,100 pages of Fauci’s private journals from December 2019 to December 2022 were released by Paul.
  • The journals include Fauci’s thoughts on the origins of COVID-19 and details about White House briefings.
  • Fauci was subpoenaed to appear before the Senate to explain his actions during the pandemic.
  • Fauci has a preemptive pardon from President Biden protecting him from prosecution.
  • Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said he helped provide the journals to the Senate committee.
  • Fauci supports the "spillover" theory that COVID-19 likely passed from animals to humans, while Paul favors the lab leak theory.
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ABC News
Prince Harry Faces Costs Battle in Failed $67m Daily Mail Lawsuit

Prince Harry Faces Costs Battle in Failed $67m Daily Mail Lawsuit

July 29, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Prince Harry and six other public figures lost a lawsuit against the Daily Mail publisher, which claimed reporters used illegal methods to gather information. The court ruled against them, and now the publisher is seeking over $67 million in costs to be paid by the claimants. A judge will decide how much they must pay after a hearing in July.

Key Facts

  • Prince Harry and six others, including Sir Elton John and Elizabeth Hurley, sued the Daily Mail publisher for alleged illegal information gathering.
  • The case involved claims like phone hacking and use of private investigators to get personal information.
  • After a 10-week trial in London’s High Court, all claims were dismissed by Judge Matthew Nicklin.
  • The judge found no proof that the newspapers used unlawful methods for their stories.
  • The publisher, Associated Newspapers Limited, wants to recover over £50 million (about $67 million) in legal costs.
  • Prince Harry is not expected to attend the upcoming court hearing on the costs issue.
  • The lawsuit began in 2022 and included emotional claims from Harry about the press damaging his relationship with ex-girlfriend Chelsy Davy.
  • The former editor of the Daily Mail called the lawsuit a conspiracy against the newspaper group after winning the case.
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Newsweek
Fauci testifying to Senate panel after Rand Paul releases trove of diary entries

Fauci testifying to Senate panel after Rand Paul releases trove of diary entries

July 29, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Dr. Anthony Fauci testified before a Senate committee chaired by Senator Rand Paul about the origins of COVID-19 and accusations concerning "gain-of-function" research. The debate focuses on whether the coronavirus came from natural animal exposure or a lab leak, with disagreements about the type of research funded at a lab in Wuhan, China.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Fauci appeared under subpoena before the Senate Homeland Security Committee.
  • Senator Rand Paul released Fauci's diary entries related to the COVID-19 pandemic response.
  • The virus's origins are disputed: some say it spread naturally from animals, while others believe it came from a lab leak in Wuhan.
  • The World Health Organization and U.S. intelligence agencies have not reached a firm conclusion on the virus's source.
  • "Gain-of-function" research involves modifying viruses to study their evolution, and it is controversial.
  • Paul claims NIH funded risky gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, a claim NIH denies.
  • Fauci and Paul have publicly accused each other of lying about the virus origins and research funding.
  • President Biden pardoned Fauci before leaving office to prevent prosecution related to these issues.
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CBS News
Elon Musk finally launches X Money. What could possibly go wrong?

Elon Musk finally launches X Money. What could possibly go wrong?

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Ars Technica

Summary

Elon Musk has launched X Money, a new payment feature available only to certain X app subscribers in the US. The service currently has important limits, such as only allowing transfers between users aged 18 and older, and not supporting payments in big markets like New York and Massachusetts, which may slow its growth.

Key Facts

  • X Money launched recently for US Premium and Premium+ X app subscribers.
  • Users can transfer money only to other X Money users who are at least 18 years old.
  • The X Card cannot be used everywhere because X lacks money transmitter licenses in New York and Massachusetts.
  • Experts say limited payment acceptance could reduce user trust and slow adoption.
  • X Money users may lose access if the platform goes down or if account activity triggers restrictions.
  • Withdrawals can be frozen for up to 180 days under certain X policies.
  • Customer support mainly relies on in-app chat; phone support is limited.
  • Elon Musk aims to build X into an “everything app” combining social media, shopping, and banking within 3 to 5 years.
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Ars Technica
‘I’m super proud of him’: father of teen lifeguard recounts dramatic ocean rescue

‘I’m super proud of him’: father of teen lifeguard recounts dramatic ocean rescue

July 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

A 16-year-old California lifeguard named Ryder Williams saved a 10-year-old boy from drowning in large waves off Seabright beach, Santa Cruz. The rescue was caught on video and shared widely online, highlighting Ryder's determination and training.

Key Facts

  • Ryder Williams is a 16-year-old lifeguard working for California state parks.
  • He rescued a 10-year-old boy who was swept about 15 yards offshore by waves.
  • A bystander recorded the dramatic rescue and posted the video online.
  • The rescue occurred on a Saturday afternoon during dangerous wave and rip current conditions.
  • Ryder said he refused to let go of the boy because he knew it would be fatal.
  • Ryder’s father, Shane Williams, is a retired firefighter and proud of his son’s calm under pressure.
  • Ryder completed lifeguard training despite being sick with a fever just before starting.
  • This was Ryder’s first official rescue; state officials said there were 34 rescues in the district that weekend.
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Guardian US
What should replace the American-led world order? | Aslı Bâli and Samuel Moyn

What should replace the American-led world order? | Aslı Bâli and Samuel Moyn

July 29, 2026 • World • Guardian US

Summary

The article discusses the decline of the American-led world order, known as Pax America, and argues that trying to return to the old system is not practical. Instead, it suggests creating a new international approach based on limits to war and violence, where multiple world powers agree to respect certain rules to maintain peace.

Key Facts

  • The American-led world order (Pax America) is currently declining.
  • Many people hope to return to the old system, but this is unrealistic and overlooks its flaws.
  • The old order often involved hypocrisy and did not benefit many countries outside the Western world.
  • The article proposes an antiwar agenda centered on four key commitments related to self-defense, respect for borders, avoiding proxy wars, and limiting arms sales.
  • This agenda focuses on mutual restraint rather than enforcing global rules from one dominant power.
  • The rise of multiple global powers (multipolarity) could lead to a more stable world order based on cooperation rather than dominance.
  • The danger remains that a declining American role might lead to more violence without these new agreements.
  • The proposed changes build on lessons from the post-World War II international system but do not try to recreate it fully.
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Guardian US
Even Maga is falling out of love with JD Vance. If only his rivals weren’t even worse … | Arwa Mahdawi

Even Maga is falling out of love with JD Vance. If only his rivals weren’t even worse … | Arwa Mahdawi

July 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

JD Vance, the vice-president, has been following a special diet that includes fermented foods to lose weight. He has recently faced criticism from within his political party, mainly because of his mild views on Israel and the Iran war, which some see as hurting his chances for the 2028 presidential race.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance is the current vice-president of the United States.
  • He has been on a diet involving fermented foods like sauerkraut, promoted by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
  • President Donald Trump has responded positively to Vance’s weight loss.
  • Vance has faced criticism and attacks from members of his own party.
  • His mild criticism of Israel and the war in Iran is a key reason for the backlash.
  • A member of Vance’s security team is under investigation for leaking details about his family’s expensive travel requests.
  • Fox News commentators have criticized Vance for contradicting President Trump publicly, especially regarding military actions in Iran.
  • Vance’s troubles may benefit his political rival Marco Rubio, who is closing the gap in the polls for the 2028 Republican nomination.
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Guardian US
Welcome to America, where you’re never quite sure if your senator is dead or not | Arwa Mahdawi

Welcome to America, where you’re never quite sure if your senator is dead or not | Arwa Mahdawi

July 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

Senator Mitch McConnell has been hospitalized since mid-June due to a fall and pneumonia. His office released two photos over several weeks to prove he is alive and recovering, but questions remain about his health and ability to perform his Senate duties.

Key Facts

  • Mitch McConnell was hospitalized on June 14 after a fall and treatment for pneumonia.
  • McConnell’s team released two photos, one in mid-July and another in late July, to show he is alive.
  • There is no direct statement from McConnell himself about his condition.
  • He has missed 38 Senate votes since his hospitalization.
  • McConnell is said to be undergoing intense physical therapy and is not expected to travel soon.
  • Kentucky’s Democratic governor, Andy Beshear, has asked McConnell to be transparent about his health.
  • Calls for more openness come from the public and officials concerned about McConnell’s ability to serve.
  • McConnell previously used a wheelchair in the Senate after a fall last year.
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Guardian US
Japan quake toll rises, people still missing in damaged mall and factory

Japan quake toll rises, people still missing in damaged mall and factory

July 29, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck the Kumamoto area in southwestern Japan, killing at least 18 people and injuring 62. Rescue teams continue searching damaged buildings, including a shopping mall and a factory, where people are still missing.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake hit on July 27, 2026, in Kumamoto, on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu.
  • At least 18 people have died, and 62 others were injured, six seriously.
  • The Aeon Mall in Kashima city was heavily damaged, with a gas explosion causing further harm and trapping people inside.
  • Three employees are still missing at the mall, and three deaths were confirmed from the explosion.
  • A collapsed chimney at a Nippon Paper Industries factory killed five people, with four others still missing.
  • Nearly 34,900 homes had no electricity, and about 15,000 had no water after the quake.
  • More than 8,800 people evacuated to over 400 shelters where air conditioning was provided due to hot weather.
  • Japan’s Self Defense Forces and firefighters from Taiwan joined rescue efforts, with officials calling it a race against time.
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CBS News
Democrats fear viral DSA interview on Fox News will leave a scar

Democrats fear viral DSA interview on Fox News will leave a scar

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Democrats are concerned that comments made by Megan Romer, a leader of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), during a Fox News interview might be used by Republicans as attack points in the upcoming midterm elections. Moderate Democrats are particularly uneasy about how these statements could affect voters’ opinions.

Key Facts

  • Megan Romer is the co-chair of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).
  • She gave a fast-paced interview on Fox News on Sunday.
  • In the interview, Romer outlined key priorities of the DSA.
  • Democrats worry the comments might be used by Republicans in political attacks.
  • This concern is growing as the midterm elections approach.
  • Moderate Democrats feel especially worried about the potential impact.
  • The interview’s wide circulation has increased the Democrats’ unease.
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The Hill
Trump demands throw Senate GOP into disarray

Trump demands throw Senate GOP into disarray

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump wants the Senate to cancel its August break to discuss the SAVE America Act and a budget plan to support the Iran war. Senate Republicans are split over whether to shorten their five-week recess, with concern about protecting vulnerable senators.

Key Facts

  • President Trump demands the Senate cancel its August recess.
  • The Senate break is planned to last five weeks.
  • The SAVE America Act would focus on voter eligibility.
  • There is also a budget plan related to funding the Iran war.
  • Senate Republicans are divided on cutting short their break.
  • Some Republican senators are worried about their election chances.
  • The disagreement has caused confusion among GOP senators.
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The Hill
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