Orcas have been seen ramming dead giant sunfish so hard that the fish explode into pieces, possibly as a form of play or to help younger whales eat smaller parts. Scientists recorded this behavior off the coast of Mexico and believe it shows complex social behavior among orcas.
Key Facts
Orcas ram dead sunfish at high speed, causing the fish to break into thousands of pieces.
Scientists recorded these events in the Gulf of California, Mexico, in 2024 and 2025.
Sunfish are very large fish, up to three meters long and 2,000 kilograms heavy.
One idea is that orcas break the fish into smaller pieces so young whales can eat more easily.
Orcas are known to play with their food and engage in fun social behaviors, like carrying dead salmon on their heads.
This behavior requires planning and teamwork, showing orcas’ intelligence.
New underwater cameras and drones help scientists discover such behavior but there are concerns about how tourism affects orcas.
Mexico has introduced rules to protect orcas and limit swimming with them during tours.
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Jailed Tunisian opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi fainted in prison due to extreme heat during a heatwave that made conditions in Mornaguia prison worse. Visitors report temperatures inside the prison reached 52°C (126°F), with many political prisoners confined to small cells and only allowed limited time outside.
Key Facts
Rached Ghannouchi, a prominent opposition leader, fainted in Mornaguia prison because of extreme heat.
Temperatures inside the prison reached 52°C (126°F) during a heatwave.
Prison cells are small, about 16 square meters (172 square feet), with inmates allowed only two hours outside daily.
Haifa Chebbi, daughter of another imprisoned opposition politician, witnessed Ghannouchi faint and described harsh conditions.
Around 37 opposition figures, including Ghannouchi and Ahmed Nejib Chebbi, were jailed on charges of “conspiracy against state security.”
The United Nations criticized these trials for lacking fair process and suggested political motives.
Ghannouchi was hospitalized earlier in April due to health problems but returned to prison.
The political prisoners include other activists, lawyers, and journalists, and their detention is linked to wider social unrest in Tunisia.
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Five Thai paramilitary soldiers were killed and six civilians injured in an attack on a security checkpoint in southern Thailand’s Narathiwat province. The assault involved gunfire and pipe bombs, and no group has claimed responsibility so far.
Key Facts
The attack happened on Wednesday evening at the Buketa Sami checkpoint in Narathiwat province.
Five paramilitary soldiers from Task Force Ranger Regiment 45 died during the attack.
Six civilians were wounded in the incident.
The attackers used gunfire and pipe bombs.
No group has claimed responsibility, and no arrests have been announced.
The area is part of southern Thailand, where a long-running separatist conflict has killed over 7,000 people since 2004.
A day before the attack, a car bomb exploded outside a police station in the same province, injuring an officer.
Talks between the Thai government and the main separatist group are planned to resume soon but have faced challenges over self-rule and security issues.
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People protested outside a court in Casablanca, Morocco, calling for the release of a rapper named Mehdi El Youbi, also known as Mehdi Black Wind. He was arrested last week and is known for speaking out against the government.
Key Facts
The protests took place outside a court in Casablanca, Morocco.
The protesters want the rapper Mehdi El Youbi to be freed.
Mehdi El Youbi is also known by his stage name, Mehdi Black Wind.
He is known for criticizing the Moroccan government.
El Youbi was arrested last week.
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Armed gangs attacked villages in Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria, killing at least 20 people. These attacks are part of a rising trend of violence and kidnappings in the region, where bandits steal livestock and demand ransom.
Key Facts
More than 20 people were killed in an armed attack in Zamfara State, Nigeria.
The attacks happened between 3 pm and 4 pm local time on the day reported.
Armed gangs in northwest and central Nigeria often raid villages, steal animals, and kidnap people for ransom.
Security forces recently killed three suspected bandits and rescued a kidnapped businessman in Kwara State.
Kidnapping for ransom has increased due to a larger security crisis linked to the Boko Haram insurgency in northeast Nigeria.
In 2024, kidnappers received over $1.6 million in ransom payments in Nigeria.
Earlier in the year, dozens of students and teachers were freed after being kidnapped for 56 days in Oyo State.
Authorities arrested some kidnappers and killed others to stop future incidents.
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Scientists say climate change has made Europe's droughts worse by causing extreme heat that dries out the land more than just low rain levels. This heat dries rivers, lakes, and soil faster, increasing the risk of droughts and wildfires across Europe.
Key Facts
Europe's current drought is mainly caused by extreme heat, not just less rain.
Scientists found that warmer air pulls more moisture from soil and water sources.
Europe has warmed about 1.4°C since the late 1800s due to burning fossil fuels.
Climate change makes droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires more common and intense.
June 2026 was the hottest June ever recorded in western Europe.
Dry soil and hot air create a cycle where land dries faster and heat increases.
Study showed dry soils are 5 times more likely in western Europe and 11 times in eastern Europe now compared to a cooler climate.
Researchers from Europe, the US, and UK used real weather data and computer models for their study.
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Najwa Abu Atiwi, a woman from Gaza, was severely injured in an Israeli air strike that destroyed her home and killed her young daughter. She has undergone multiple surgeries and treatments for her injuries but still faces challenges in recovery due to limited medical resources in Gaza.
Key Facts
Najwa Abu Atiwi was injured in an Israeli air strike on her home in the Nuseirat camp in Gaza.
She lost one eye and sustained serious fractures and injuries to her face and jaw.
Her daughter, Hajar, nearly six years old, was killed in the same attack.
Najwa spent weeks in a coma and did not learn about her daughter's death until later.
She has had metal plates and meshes placed in her face and continues to have difficulty eating and speaking.
Some specialized medical treatments she needs are not available in Gaza because of the ongoing blockade and damage from the conflict.
Doctors say her injuries are complex and require reconstructive surgery of facial bones and tissues before cosmetic surgery.
The conflict in Gaza has led to tens of thousands of deaths and severe medical and infrastructural challenges.
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The U.S. military used a B-1 bomber to strike Iranian military targets, marking a significant step in recent fighting with Iran. President Donald Trump is considering further military actions, while talks to end the conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz continue but have not succeeded yet.
Key Facts
The U.S. launched a B-1 long-range bomber strike against Iranian Revolutionary Guard targets.
This was the first B-1 mission since fighting with Iran resumed 12 days ago.
The B-1 bomber can carry a large number of bombs and cruise missiles and fly fast at low heights.
The strike targeted Iranian military centers, weapons storage, and logistics affecting threats to commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
President Trump said he might bomb bridges and power plants in Iran if attacks on ships continue.
Iran threatened to attack infrastructure in Gulf countries allied with the U.S. in response.
Houthi rebels, linked to Iran, attacked Saudi ships in the Red Sea, possibly opening a new conflict front.
Diplomats from Qatar, the U.S., Iran, and Oman are trying to negotiate peace, but Iran has not accepted the latest proposal.
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The American Heart Association released a statement about how much caffeinated coffee people can safely drink each day without harming their heart health. This information aims to reassure coffee drinkers who are worried about caffeine's effects on their heart.
Key Facts
The American Heart Association provided guidance on coffee consumption and heart health.
The focus is on caffeinated coffee, not decaffeinated.
The statement discusses how many cups of coffee are safe daily.
This news aims to address concerns about coffee and heart risks.
The information was shared through CBS News.
The report is intended to help people enjoy coffee without fear for their heart.
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Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group said they attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea after the US launched airstrikes on Iran. The US strikes came after President Donald Trump warned Iran and the Houthis of military action if they attacked ships or blocked key waterways like the Red Sea or Strait of Hormuz.
Key Facts
The Houthis claimed to attack two Saudi tankers named Encelia and Layla using drones and missiles.
The UK Maritime Trade Operation reported a Saudi tanker caught fire but no one was hurt.
US Central Command said it conducted strikes to reduce Iran’s threat to ships in regional waters.
Iran said two people died in the US strikes near its border with Iraq.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed the Strait of Hormuz is closed after an explosion and blocked three oil tankers.
President Trump threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure if Iran attacked ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Houthis say they have closed the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a crucial route in the Red Sea.
Peace talks between the US and Iran have stalled despite a recent agreement to stop military actions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
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Houthi rebels in Yemen said they attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, hitting a vessel named ENCELIA. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards reported stopping three oil tankers trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for oil shipping, warning vessels must coordinate with Iran to pass safely.
Key Facts
Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed they attacked two Saudi oil tankers called ENCELIA and LAYLIA in the Red Sea.
Saudi state media confirmed that the vessel ENCELIA was hit and caught fire, but no crew members were harmed.
The Houthis say they are enforcing a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guards said they stopped three oil tankers from crossing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for oil shipments.
Iran warned any ships passing through the Strait without permission might face attacks.
The United States is continuing military strikes against Iran amid rising tensions.
President Donald Trump attended a ceremony for four U.S. soldiers killed in conflicts involving Iran.
U.S. Defense Secretary requested $70 billion from the Senate to support the military operations related to the Iran conflict.
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Abderrahim Fakir, a 42-year-old Moroccan man living in Bologna, Italy, died after police restrained him. Video footage shows Fakir resisting on the ground while restrained by police and a civilian, with paramedics nearby who only noticed he lost consciousness after the restraint ended. His death has reopened debates in Italy about police accountability and handling of custody cases.
Key Facts
Fakir was restrained by two police officers and a civilian for nearly seven minutes in Bologna on July 19.
He was heard crying out for help for over four minutes before falling silent.
His ankles were secured with a plastic zip tie during the restraint.
Paramedics only realized Fakir lost consciousness after the restraint ended.
Police said they responded to reports of violent behavior and called emergency services immediately.
A post-mortem examination and an internal health investigation were ordered.
The European Court of Human Rights condemned Italy in a similar 2014 case for failing to justify restraints that led to death.
Fakir had been under financial stress and feared deportation amid Italy’s stricter migration policies.
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Spain and France are fighting large wildfires amid very hot weather. Weather agencies warn the risk of more fires remains high in these countries and other parts of Europe due to extreme heat and dry conditions.
Key Facts
Spain’s weather agency says most of mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands face a “very high or extreme” risk of wildfires.
A wildfire in Guadalajara, Spain, has burned over 32,000 hectares, one of the largest fires in the country’s history.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited the area and called for political cooperation to address climate change.
France is battling a 2,500-hectare fire in the Var region, leading to evacuations and damage to homes.
Fire risks remain very high in western and southwestern France according to Meteo-France.
Other European countries like Italy, Greece, and Cyprus are also under wildfire or heatwave warnings.
Scientists link the increasing heatwaves and wildfires in Europe to human-driven climate change.
France recorded nearly 5,800 excess deaths during a recent heatwave, with officials calling it an unprecedented rise.
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The United States has imposed tariffs and sanctions on Brazil, affecting local trade and law enforcement. These actions are influencing voter opinions ahead of Brazil's presidential election in October, where leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will run against Flavio Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Key Facts
The US announced 25 percent tariffs on many Brazilian goods after a yearlong investigation into Brazil’s trade practices.
The US claims Brazil favored its own payment system, taxed US ethanol unfairly, and did not enforce deforestation laws properly.
These US tariffs are part of a broader strategy following a Supreme Court decision limiting President Trump’s tariff powers.
Brazil’s presidential election first round is set for October 4, with a possible run-off on October 25.
Lula is running for a fourth term and leads in polls against Flavio Bolsonaro by 45% to 37%.
Jair Bolsonaro, currently serving a 27-year prison term for plotting to overturn election results, is the father of Flavio Bolsonaro.
President Trump supported Jair Bolsonaro in the past and criticized investigations against him.
The US actions, including tariffs and sanctions, may be strengthening Lula’s position among Brazilian voters.
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Heavy rains caused flash floods across West Virginia, flooding homes, businesses, and roads, and prompting water rescues. The governor sent 500 National Guard troops to help, declared a state of emergency, and officials are still searching for missing residents.
Key Facts
Up to 7 inches of rain fell in West Virginia, with some areas receiving 4.5 inches in 37 minutes.
Flash floods damaged bridges, homes, businesses, and blocked roads in the northern part of the state.
Governor Patrick Morrisey deployed 500 National Guard members to the hardest-hit areas.
More than 100 people have been rescued from floodwaters, but some residents remain unaccounted for.
Three emergency shelters opened to house over 100 displaced residents.
Nineteen helicopters were involved in rescue missions or standby roles.
Floodwaters blocked access to some areas, delaying rescue and relief efforts.
The heavy rains were part of a larger storm system affecting several states, with tornadoes reported in six states.
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The United States is experiencing an outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness caused by the cyclospora parasite. Experts are working to track and trace the spread of this parasite, but it has been difficult to do so.
Key Facts
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause illness when people eat contaminated food or water.
The current outbreak in the U.S. has affected over 4,000 people.
Tracking this parasite is challenging because it takes time for symptoms to appear and for testing to confirm infection.
Julie Swann, an expert in industrial and systems engineering, explains why it is hard to monitor the spread.
Efforts are ongoing to improve methods for detecting and tracing the parasite in food sources.
Cyclosporiasis can cause symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue.
The outbreak has triggered public health investigations to identify the sources of contamination.
Preventing infection involves washing produce thoroughly and following food safety guidelines.
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Tropical Storm Bertha has made landfall in Louisiana, causing flooding in the region. Forecasters expect the storm to pass over New Orleans on Wednesday night and then move toward Houston.
Key Facts
Tropical Storm Bertha reached land in Louisiana.
The storm has caused flooding in parts of Louisiana.
Forecasts predict Bertha will pass over New Orleans on Wednesday night.
After New Orleans, Bertha is expected to move toward Houston, Texas.
CBS News reporters Lana Zak and Zoe Mintz are covering the storm’s impact.
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Four U.S. Army soldiers were recently killed in the ongoing conflict involving Iran. A dignified transfer ceremony was held to honor Lt. Tyler James Feehan, Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, Sgt. Angel Rampersad, and Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton.
Key Facts
Four U.S. service members died in the Middle East amid the war with Iran.
Their names are Lt. Tyler James Feehan, Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, Sgt. Angel Rampersad, and Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton.
A dignified transfer ceremony took place on Wednesday to honor the soldiers.
The conflict involves ongoing military actions between the U.S. and Iran.
The news was reported by CBS News and shared by Lindsey Reiser.
The dignified transfer is a respectful military tradition for fallen soldiers.
The incident highlights the continuing tensions and violence in the region.
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Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in court as a date was scheduled for their drug trafficking trial. The trial will begin in June 2027.
Key Facts
Nicolás Maduro is the President of Venezuela.
Maduro and his wife face criminal drug trafficking charges.
They appeared in court on a Wednesday.
A trial date was set for June 2027.
The information comes from CBS News reporting.
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Wildfires struck parts of southern Europe including Spain, France, and Italy, causing the deaths of three firefighters and forcing thousands to leave their homes. Hot weather, dry ground, and strong winds helped the fires spread, and many teams worked to control dozens of active fires.
Key Facts
Wildfires occurred in Sicily (Italy), southwestern France, and central Spain.
Three firefighters died while fighting the fires across these regions.
Thousands of people were evacuated to safety.
Temperatures exceeded 40°C (104°F), making conditions very dry and hot.
Around 6,000 firefighters, forest rangers, and civil protection workers were involved in fighting the fires.
More than 50 fires were still burning in Sicily, and over 160 fires were reported in Calabria, Italy.
Some fires in Calabria were caused by arsonists who used unusual methods, such as tying flammable rags to stray cats.
France experienced large fires near Bordeaux, displacing thousands and burning nearly 3,500 acres in one area.
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