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RFK Jr urges Alzheimer’s screening but blunts key panel that could drive research

RFK Jr urges Alzheimer’s screening but blunts key panel that could drive research

July 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called for better screening for Alzheimer’s disease. However, a key federal expert panel that advises on health screenings, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), has not met for over a year, delaying important recommendations on cognitive decline screening.

Key Facts

  • The USPSTF, which advises on preventive health services, has been unable to meet since March 2025 due to government actions.
  • The Trump administration fired two taskforce chairs and has not filled many vacancies on the panel.
  • The USPSTF had planned to recommend guidelines on cognitive decline screening this year along with other health topics.
  • Alzheimer’s researchers say progress is slowed by these delays and funding disruptions.
  • Health Secretary Kennedy criticized the panel for inaction and emphasized the need for better Alzheimer’s screening.
  • The National Institutes of Health remains the largest federal funder of Alzheimer’s research.
  • About 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older have Alzheimer’s, with around 200,000 middle-aged Americans also diagnosed.
  • Alzheimer’s screening currently depends on noticing symptoms and performing cognitive tests followed by specialist referral.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Couple Uncover Bricked-Up Wall in Cellar—Then Find Cash Hidden for Decades

Couple Uncover Bricked-Up Wall in Cellar—Then Find Cash Hidden for Decades

July 26, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

A couple in Sheffield, United Kingdom, found a hidden bricked-up room in their cellar. Inside, they discovered old stacks of £5 notes from the 1970s worth over £1,000. The money helped them with expenses during a difficult time caused by the pandemic.

Key Facts

  • The couple, Luisa and Dan, found the bricked-up wall in 2020 under the stairs to their cellar.
  • Behind the wall, they found a hidden room filled with coal and a rusty tin can.
  • The tin contained bundles of £5 notes dating back to the 1970s, totaling more than £1,000.
  • They opened the tin with their kids and carefully dried out the money before taking it to the bank.
  • The discovery came during the pandemic when Luisa was temporarily out of work.
  • Their house was built before 1900, which is common for many homes in England.
  • The find helped reduce financial stress and allowed them to treat their children during tough times.
  • Most homes in England were built before 1919, while in the U.S. the median home age is from 1979.
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Newsweek
I Survived a Rare Brain Infection That Put Me in a Coma. How I Found My Way Back

I Survived a Rare Brain Infection That Put Me in a Coma. How I Found My Way Back

July 26, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Amy Gruenhut survived a rare brain infection called viral encephalitis that put her in a coma for two weeks. After months of difficult therapy, she gradually regained her strength and now lives independently, works full-time, and runs marathons.

Key Facts

  • On January 8, 2022, Amy felt very sick with slurred speech and weakness and was diagnosed with viral encephalitis, a serious brain infection.
  • She was put into a medically induced coma for two weeks to help her brain heal.
  • When she woke up, she could not speak, breathe on her own, eat, or walk.
  • Amy had a prior diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) from 2002, but had lived independently before the infection.
  • Her recovery involved physical, speech, and occupational therapy with patient support.
  • It took months of repetitive and exhausting work to rebuild her strength and mobility.
  • Eight months after nearly dying, she ran the New York City Marathon again.
  • Four years later, she celebrates her survival and continues to live an active life.
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Newsweek
More than 300,000 displaced in France and Spain as wildfires rage

More than 300,000 displaced in France and Spain as wildfires rage

July 26, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Wildfires in France and Spain have forced over 300,000 people to evacuate their homes. Firefighters and soldiers are working nonstop to control the large fires, especially near the cities of Bordeaux in France and Valencia in Spain.

Key Facts

  • More than 250,000 people were evacuated in the Gironde region of France, near Bordeaux.
  • The area burned in Gironde covers about 162 square miles, larger than cities like Manhattan and Paris.
  • Firefighters use planes and helicopters to drop water and fire retardants on the flames.
  • Soldiers and help from other European countries are supporting firefighting efforts in France.
  • In Spain, 116,000 people have been evacuated due to wildfires near Madrid and Valencia.
  • A new fire front near Valencia caused the first fire-related death in Spain during this event.
  • Weather conditions remain dry and windy, making it harder to control the fires.
  • Authorities describe the fires as unpredictable and spreading quickly due to dry forests and heat waves.
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CBS News
A US-Russian space crew lands safely in Kazakhstan after an 8-month stint on the ISS

A US-Russian space crew lands safely in Kazakhstan after an 8-month stint on the ISS

July 26, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

A U.S. and Russian space crew landed safely in Kazakhstan after spending 241 days on the International Space Station (ISS). The team included NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Russian cosmonauts Sergei Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev.

Key Facts

  • The crew arrived back on Earth in a Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft that landed smoothly by parachute in Kazakhstan.
  • This mission was the first space trip for Williams and Mikaev, and the second for Kud-Sverchkov.
  • After landing, the crew will be transported by helicopter to Karaganda, then flown to their respective home bases.
  • The ISS mission lasted 241 days, during which the astronauts and cosmonauts worked together in orbit.
  • Despite political tensions between the U.S. and Russia since 2022, the two countries continue cooperating on the ISS.
  • A new crew including NASA astronaut Anil Menon and Russian cosmonauts arrived at the ISS on July 14 for another eight-month mission.
  • NASA’s chief, Jared Isaacman, attended that recent launch, marking the first visit by a NASA leader to the Baikonur launch site in eight years.
  • The current ISS team also includes astronauts from NASA and the European Space Agency, working as part of Expedition 75.
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AP News
Why the UK cancelled a military exercise in Kenya – and what it means

Why the UK cancelled a military exercise in Kenya – and what it means

July 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The UK cancelled a planned military training exercise in Kenya because of disagreements about legal rules and accountability for British troops there. The issue focuses on the UK-Kenya Defence Cooperation Agreement and the long-standing joint training unit called BATUK.

Key Facts

  • The UK Ministry of Defence cancelled a September 2026 training exercise in Kenya.
  • The cancellation happened because necessary approvals were not obtained amid disagreements.
  • The dispute involves legal jurisdiction and accountability for British forces operating in Kenya.
  • The UK-Kenya Defence Cooperation Agreement governs military cooperation, including training and investigations.
  • BATUK is a British Army Training Unit in Kenya that allows joint exercises with Kenyan forces.
  • Kenyan lawmakers have raised concerns about how British soldiers are held accountable for misconduct.
  • The UK government says the relationship with Kenya is based on mutual respect and shared goals.
  • Both countries want to maintain security ties despite the current disagreement.
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Al Jazeera
The Oura Ring 5 Fixes Its Biggest Problems But Has One Drawback

The Oura Ring 5 Fixes Its Biggest Problems But Has One Drawback

July 26, 2026 • Technology • Newsweek

Summary

The Oura Ring 5 is a smaller and lighter health tracker compared to its previous model. It improves some features like sleep and heart rate variability tracking but has limitations in real-time heart rate monitoring during workouts.

Key Facts

  • The Oura Ring 5 is about 40% smaller than the Ring 4, measuring 6.09 mm wide and 2.28 mm thick.
  • It weighs between 2 and 2.69 grams, lighter than the Ring 4 which weighed 3.3 to 5.2 grams.
  • The ring improved nighttime heart rate variability accuracy by 12% through brighter sensors.
  • Real-time heart rate tracking during workouts is weak, sometimes losing signal especially when holding weights.
  • The ring relies on a paired external Bluetooth heart rate sensor for live workout heart rate data.
  • Battery life lasts about 6 to 9 days, an improvement over the previous model’s 5 to 8 days.
  • The price starts at $399, with premium finishes priced at $499, and a subscription service costing $5.99 per month or $69.99 annually.
  • The ring’s size options now range from 6 to 13, narrower than before, so not all finger sizes may fit.
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Newsweek
After Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, has Iran war now reached Caspian Sea?

After Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, has Iran war now reached Caspian Sea?

July 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A Ukrainian strike hit an Iranian commercial ship in the Caspian Sea, killing one Iranian sailor and injuring another. Iran called the attack "hostile and criminal" and summoned Ukraine’s diplomats, while Ukraine said it targeted vessels linked to Iranian military shipments and accused Russia of helping Iran’s military actions.

Key Facts

  • The attack occurred on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea on a Saturday.
  • Iran confirmed one sailor was killed and another wounded in the strike.
  • Iran’s foreign ministry summoned Ukraine’s diplomat to protest the attack.
  • Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy stated the strike targeted ships carrying military cargo connected to Iran.
  • Zelenskyy accused Russia of providing satellite intelligence to Iran to support its military actions.
  • Iran called the attack a violation of the United Nations Charter and warned it may escalate the Russia-Ukraine war.
  • Iranian Foreign Minister asked the EU and UN Security Council for a strong response and accountability.
  • The incident raises concerns that the Caspian Sea, previously a safe area for Iran, could become a new conflict zone.
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Al Jazeera
‘Bullied, beaten up, killed’: Armenia's drag queens risk it all for the stage

‘Bullied, beaten up, killed’: Armenia's drag queens risk it all for the stage

July 26, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

In Armenia, a hidden drag scene is growing in the capital city Yerevan despite ongoing threats like police raids, family rejection, and violence against LGBTQ people. The war in Ukraine and an influx of Russians into Armenia have helped change attitudes, but challenges remain as attacks and discrimination continue.

Key Facts

  • Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, hosts underground drag shows that attract hundreds but remain secretive for safety.
  • A queer club in Yerevan was firebombed in 2012, and its owner fled the country due to threats.
  • Police raids and family rejection of LGBTQ individuals are common in Armenia.
  • Armenia ranks 45th out of 49 European countries for LGBTQ legal protections according to ILGA-Europe.
  • Violence against LGBTQ people has included a 2018 attack on activists and the 2023 murder of a trans woman named Adriana.
  • The 2022 war in Ukraine and the arrival of many Russians in Armenia have contributed to a slow shift toward more acceptance.
  • Drag performers in Armenia see their work as political and about survival amid the risks they face.
  • Despite danger, the drag and queer community in Yerevan continues to grow and organize events, often spreading news by word of mouth or private social media.
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France24
Who is India’s new education minister?

Who is India’s new education minister?

July 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

India has appointed Pralhad Joshi as the new education minister after the previous minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, stepped down following protests over exam scandals. Joshi recently commented that preventing exam paper leaks is very difficult despite efforts.

Key Facts

  • Pralhad Joshi is India's new education minister.
  • The previous minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, resigned amid protests.
  • The protests were caused by exam scandals involving leaked papers.
  • Joshi acknowledged that stopping paper leaks is very hard.
  • The protests were led by the Cockroach Janta Party.
  • The appointment came after several weeks of public unrest.
  • Exam paper leaks have been a significant issue in India’s education system.
  • The government aims to address the exam fraud problem with this change.
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Al Jazeera
Deadly attack on holiday camp in Russian-held part of Ukraine, officials say

Deadly attack on holiday camp in Russian-held part of Ukraine, officials say

July 26, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

A drone attack hit a holiday camp in the part of Ukraine controlled by Russia’s forces in the Zaporizhzhia region. At least 11 people died, including five children. Russian-installed local authorities say Ukraine carried out the attack and targeted civilians.

Key Facts

  • The attack occurred overnight at a holiday camp in Russian-held Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine.
  • At least 11 people were killed, including five children.
  • The attack involved drones, unmanned flying devices often used for military strikes.
  • Local authorities installed by Russia accused Ukraine of intentionally attacking civilians.
  • The region remains under Russian control amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
  • Both sides have often blamed each other for attacks that harm civilians during the war.
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France24
Berlin Police seek 21-year-old after vehicle crashes into crowd during LGBTQ+ parade

Berlin Police seek 21-year-old after vehicle crashes into crowd during LGBTQ+ parade

July 26, 2026 • World • ABC News

Summary

A 21-year-old man named Abdul B. is wanted by Berlin police after driving a vehicle into a crowd during the city’s Christopher Street Day LGBTQ+ parade. The crash killed one person and injured at least 16 others, some with life-threatening wounds, and police warned that the suspect may be armed and dangerous.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened Saturday night in Tiergarten Park, near the end of the parade route.
  • One person was killed and at least 16 others were injured.
  • Abdul B., aged 21, is the main suspect and is known to police, possibly linked to Islamist groups.
  • The suspect is described as about 6'3", slim, with black hair, wearing a black hoodie and white pants.
  • Police believe one or more people fled from the vehicle after the crash.
  • There were reports of stab wounds to some injured individuals.
  • Police asked the public not to approach the suspect and to call emergency number 110 if spotted.
  • The Christopher Street Day parade was stopped after the attack, and the event attracts hundreds of thousands of people annually.
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ABC News
Woman Paralyzed After Snowboarding Accident—Months Later Comes Surprise

Woman Paralyzed After Snowboarding Accident—Months Later Comes Surprise

July 26, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Lucy Martinez was paralyzed in a snowboarding accident in January 2025, breaking her spine and initially being told she likely would not walk again. Despite severe nerve pain and a difficult recovery, she began regaining movement and was later surprised by a positive pregnancy test, which she says motivated her healing.

Key Facts

  • Martinez had a snowboarding accident on January 5, 2025, breaking her T12 vertebra.
  • She underwent spinal fusion surgery from T9 to L3 and spent three days in intensive care.
  • Doctors initially said it was unlikely she would walk again.
  • She started physical therapy five days after surgery while still in the hospital.
  • Martinez experienced severe nerve pain but gradually regained movement starting with wiggling her toe.
  • By March 2025, she was walking with a harness and no arm crutches.
  • She found out she was pregnant in April 2025 after trying unsuccessfully for years to have children.
  • Her pregnancy continued safely alongside ongoing physical therapy, helping her focus on recovery.
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Newsweek
Wildfires ravage southwest France: Thousands face devastation after evacuation

Wildfires ravage southwest France: Thousands face devastation after evacuation

July 26, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

A large wildfire in southwest France has forced 220,000 people to leave their homes, with 55,000 evacuated overnight near the city of Bordeaux. Strong winds and dry weather have made it harder to control the fire, which started several days ago.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire is located in the Gironde region of southwest France.
  • 220,000 people have been evacuated in total due to the fire.
  • Overnight, 55,000 people were forced to leave five local areas near Bordeaux.
  • Bordeaux is a well-known wine region and is close to the fire's path.
  • Hot, dry weather and gusty winds have made firefighting difficult.
  • The fire has been burning out of control since the middle of the week.
  • Authorities continue to issue evacuation orders to protect residents.
  • Firefighters are working hard but face challenges from weather conditions.
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France24
Israeli settlers set fire to mosques, cars and farm land in West Bank, Palestinians say

Israeli settlers set fire to mosques, cars and farm land in West Bank, Palestinians say

July 26, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Israeli settlers reportedly set fire to two mosques, cars, and farmland in the occupied West Bank, according to Palestinian officials. The attacks follow a deadly clash between settlers and Palestinians near Tal village, increasing tensions in the region.

Key Facts

  • Two mosques in the West Bank villages of Qusra and Kour were set on fire by Israeli settlers.
  • Settlers also vandalized cars, stole property, and spray-painted hate graffiti, including the word "revenge."
  • The violence escalated after a recent clash near Tal that killed four Palestinians and two Israelis.
  • The Israeli military sent troops to investigate and plans police inquiries into the mosque attacks.
  • Israeli forces have arrested dozens of Palestinians in response, calling it a "counter-terrorism" operation.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised strong actions, including possible home demolitions.
  • Settler violence in the West Bank has increased significantly since October 7, 2023, after Hamas's attacks.
  • There are about 700,000 Jewish settlers and 3.3 million Palestinians living in the West Bank, an area Palestinians want for a future state; the settlements are considered illegal under international law.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries kicks off 100 days till midterms with affordability agenda

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries kicks off 100 days till midterms with affordability agenda

July 26, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries is launching a campaign focused on making life more affordable as the midterm elections approach. He and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro are supporting Democratic candidate Bob Brooks in a key district, aiming to win House control from Republicans during President Trump’s second term.

Key Facts

  • Hakeem Jeffries announced the “Fighting for an Affordable America” agenda with 100 days left before the midterms.
  • The focus is on lowering costs for groceries, gas, housing, and providing affordable health care.
  • Jeffries and Governor Josh Shapiro support Bob Brooks, a retired firefighter running in Pennsylvania’s 7th District.
  • The seat is currently held by Republican Rep. Ryan Mackenzie, who is also holding his own campaign kickoff event.
  • Midterms often serve as a referendum on the sitting president, currently President Donald Trump.
  • President Trump supports Republican candidates and promotes his One Big Beautiful Bill, which includes tax breaks and spending cuts.
  • Democrats highlight voter frustration over the war with Iran and rising everyday costs to win votes.
  • Control of the House could be decided by fewer than 20 competitive districts, with Pennsylvania’s contests being especially important.
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AP News
A forced-labor crackdown or an end-run around Congress? Dissecting Trump’s new tariffs

A forced-labor crackdown or an end-run around Congress? Dissecting Trump’s new tariffs

July 26, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

President Donald Trump has imposed new tariffs on imports from over 60 countries, using a law that lets him act without Congress when dealing with unfair trade practices. These tariffs replace previous temporary tariffs and target countries the U.S. says do not enforce bans on goods made with forced labor. Some countries have disagreed with the U.S. claims and the way tariffs were set.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration applied tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from more than 60 countries.
  • The tariffs are justified under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the president to impose trade measures without Congress.
  • These tariffs replace temporary 10% tariffs that recently expired.
  • The tariffs target countries the U.S. says fail to ban or enforce prohibitions on goods made with forced labor.
  • The U.S. investigated the countries for four months but shared limited details about the evidence and tariff calculations.
  • Many affected countries, including those in Europe, protested the tariffs and called the U.S. claims unfair.
  • The U.S. Trade Representative’s office consulted countries and held public hearings but did not disclose confidential negotiation details.
  • Experts question the strength of evidence that these countries do not enforce forced labor import bans effectively.
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AP News
Man in critical condition after sea rescue

Man in critical condition after sea rescue

July 26, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Three people were rescued from the water near a pier in Essex, England, and taken to the hospital. A man in his 50s is in critical condition, while two others, a man in his 20s and a teenage girl, are recovering.

Key Facts

  • The rescue happened near Clacton-on-Sea pier in Essex.
  • Emergency services arrived shortly after 4:30 pm on Saturday.
  • The man in his 50s is critically ill but stable.
  • The other two people, a younger man and a teenage girl, are recovering in hospital.
  • All three people knew each other.
  • This event followed another serious water incident nearby in West Mersea where a mother and daughter died trying to rescue a child.
  • Police asked people not to spread unverified information about the incident on social media.
  • The area was busy, and many people witnessed the rescue.
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BBC Top Stories
Romanian jet shoots down drone entering country's airspace for third day in a row

Romanian jet shoots down drone entering country's airspace for third day in a row

July 26, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

A Romanian fighter jet shot down a drone entering Romanian airspace for the third day in a row, according to the defense minister. The first drone was identified as a Shahed model used by Russia in its war against Ukraine. Romania has called in Russia’s ambassador following these incidents.

Key Facts

  • On Sunday, a Romanian F-16 jet shot down a drone over the Black Sea five minutes after it entered Romania’s airspace.
  • This was the third drone Romania shot down in three days.
  • The first drone, shot down on Friday, was identified as a Shahed model used by Russia in its war with Ukraine.
  • Romania is a NATO and European Union member and considers these drone flights a violation of its airspace.
  • Russia has not made any immediate public statement about the drone incidents.
  • Romania has experienced many drone incursions since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
  • In 2025, Romania passed a law allowing the military to shoot down drones violating its airspace.
  • Previous drone incidents have caused some damage and injuries, including a drone hitting an apartment building in Romania.
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France24
Photos: Wildfires in France drive 250,000 people from their homes

Photos: Wildfires in France drive 250,000 people from their homes

July 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A large wildfire in southwest France has forced over 220,000 people to leave their homes near the city of Bordeaux. Another fire in a nearby region caused more evacuations, bringing the total displaced in France to more than 250,000. In Spain, fires near Madrid have caused 70,000 people to evacuate as well.

Key Facts

  • 55,000 people were evacuated on Sunday alone in the Gironde region near Bordeaux.
  • The total number of evacuees in the Gironde region has reached 220,000.
  • Strong winds have helped the fire spread quickly since it began earlier in the week.
  • A major highway southwest of Bordeaux was partially closed due to the fire.
  • The wildfire has come as close as 15 km (9 miles) to Bordeaux.
  • Another fire in the Landes region forced 30,000 people to evacuate this week.
  • Over 250,000 people in total have been evacuated from wildfires in southwest France.
  • In Spain, 70,000 people were evacuated because of fires west of Madrid.
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Al Jazeera
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