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World News

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Watch: What we know about newly discovered monkey species

Watch: What we know about newly discovered monkey species

July 16, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Scientists have confirmed a new monkey species living in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The monkey, with pinkish-orange lips and a black face, was first seen in 2008 but only studied deeply after another sighting 10 years later.

Key Facts

  • The new monkey species lives in Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • It has pinkish-orange lips and a black face.
  • The monkey lives high up in dense tropical forest trees.
  • Conservationists first noticed the monkey in 2008.
  • A detailed study began after a second sighting in 2018.
  • An international team of scientists was involved in confirming the species.
  • Dr. Karen Laurenson from the Frankfurt Zoological Society highlighted the importance of this discovery.
  • The find shows there is still much to learn about wildlife in natural habitats.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
As the war rekindles, what options are left to the US and Iran?

As the war rekindles, what options are left to the US and Iran?

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

The United States and Iran have resumed military attacks against each other, focusing on control of the Strait of Hormuz. This conflict follows a recent preliminary deal meant to stop fighting, but attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain show tensions remain high.

Key Facts

  • The US and Iran have restarted attacks in a conflict over control of the Strait of Hormuz.
  • A preliminary peace deal was signed about a month ago but has not stopped the violence.
  • Iran has carried out air attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain.
  • Iran claims it is targeting US military bases in the Gulf region.
  • The conflict involves exchanges of strikes between US and Iranian forces.
  • President Donald Trump has warned of more strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure like bridges and power plants.
  • The US has reinstated a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route.
  • The situation raises questions about how long the conflict can continue without escalation or resolution.
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France24
Data breach reportedly targets India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant

Data breach reportedly targets India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A ransomware group called World Leaks posted thousands of files linked to India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant on the dark web. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India said no sensitive nuclear security information was exposed, and Indian authorities are investigating the breach.

Key Facts

  • World Leaks shared about 19,000 files related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant online since June 11.
  • The files included blueprints, supplier details, meeting records, equipment reviews, and insurance policies.
  • Reliance Group, a contractor for the plant, confirmed a partial data breach on a server hosted by a third-party provider.
  • Kudankulam is India’s largest nuclear power plant and is key to expanding the country’s atomic energy.
  • The leaked files date from 2016 to mid-2025 but their authenticity could not be confirmed by Reuters.
  • The Nuclear Power Corporation of India stated the exposed information did not involve nuclear safety or security systems.
  • India’s main cybersecurity agency, CERT-In, is investigating the breach.
  • World Leaks is known for demanding ransom payments and posting stolen corporate data when demands are not met.
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Al Jazeera
Genoa bridge collapse trial highlights Italy's ageing infrastructure issue

Genoa bridge collapse trial highlights Italy's ageing infrastructure issue

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

An Italian court sentenced 32 people for their roles in the 2018 Genoa bridge collapse that killed 43 people. Giovanni Castellucci, former CEO of the company managing the bridge, was found guilty of vehicular homicide and negligence and sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Key Facts

  • The collapse happened eight years ago in Genoa, Italy.
  • 43 people died in the disaster.
  • 32 defendants were tried and found guilty.
  • Giovanni Castellucci, former CEO of Autostrade, received a 12-year prison sentence.
  • Castellucci was convicted of vehicular homicide and negligence.
  • The trial also included the former head of Spea, the engineering company responsible for renovations.
  • Officials from Italy’s infrastructure ministry were also on trial.
  • The case highlighted issues with Italy’s aging infrastructure.
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France24
Has Bali’s Melukat ritual turned into a commodified religious ceremony?

Has Bali’s Melukat ritual turned into a commodified religious ceremony?

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Many travelers visiting Bali are taking part in Melukat, an old Balinese ceremony meant for spiritual cleansing and healing. There are concerns that the ceremony’s cultural and spiritual meaning might be affected by the growing number of tourists.

Key Facts

  • Melukat is an ancient spiritual ceremony in Bali meant for cleansing and healing.
  • Hundreds of tourists participate in Melukat daily during the holiday season.
  • Bali is a popular travel destination known for its cultural traditions.
  • The rise in tourists has raised concerns about changing the true meaning of the ceremony.
  • The article explores tensions between tourism and preserving cultural heritage.
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Al Jazeera
Ukraine: Protests erupt after defence minister sacked

Ukraine: Protests erupt after defence minister sacked

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Protests have started in several Ukrainian cities after the country's defence minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, was fired by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Fedorov was popular and seen as a reformer but was removed after only six months in the position, possibly due to conflicts within the military.

Key Facts

  • Mykhailo Fedorov was Ukraine’s defence minister for six months before being dismissed.
  • President Volodymyr Zelensky removed Fedorov from the role.
  • Fedorov was considered a moderniser of Ukraine’s defence ministry.
  • Protests broke out in multiple cities in Ukraine following his dismissal.
  • Demonstrators shouted slogans like “Shame!” and “Power to the people!”
  • The dismissal may be linked to internal disagreements in the Ukrainian military.
  • Such protests are rare in Ukraine, showing strong public reaction.
  • The situation highlights tensions inside Ukraine’s defence leadership during an ongoing conflict.
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France24
Vance: Israeli government members ‘hate’ Iran deal

Vance: Israeli government members ‘hate’ Iran deal

July 16, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Vice President Vance said that some members of the Israeli government strongly dislike the recent U.S.-Iran deal based on a 14-point agreement signed last month. He also mentioned that there is discussion about Israel's role in influencing U.S. politics.

Key Facts

  • Vice President Vance spoke on Wednesday about the U.S.-Iran deal.
  • The deal is based on a 14-point memorandum of understanding signed last month.
  • Some people in the Israeli government dislike the deal.
  • There is talk about Israel's influence on American politics.
  • The statement highlights differing views within the Israeli government regarding the agreement with Iran.
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The Hill
Burnham too influenced by ‘vested interests’ to offer change, Polanski says

Burnham too influenced by ‘vested interests’ to offer change, Polanski says

July 16, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party in England and Wales, criticized Andy Burnham, the incoming UK prime minister, for being influenced by powerful interests and not offering real change on issues like wealth taxes, Gaza, rent controls, and climate action. The Greens are planning a media campaign to highlight areas where they believe Burnham is weak or cautious compared to their stronger policy proposals.

Key Facts

  • Zack Polanski said Andy Burnham is “too in hock to vested interests” to deliver real change.
  • The Green Party’s membership has more than tripled under Polanski’s leadership.
  • The Greens are gaining support from former Labour voters unhappy with Labour leader Keir Starmer.
  • Burnham reportedly chose Shabana Mahmood over Ed Miliband as chancellor, seen by Greens as a sign of being influenced by the financial sector.
  • Greens want rent controls, while Burnham has supported the idea but not committed to it as prime minister.
  • Greens propose a separate wealth tax supported by 81% of Labour voters, while Burnham may only adjust capital gains tax thresholds.
  • Polanski contrasted Greens’ call to ban UK arms exports to Israel with Burnham’s apology for Labour’s early response to Gaza.
  • The Greens accuse Burnham of not taking strong enough action on climate change, noting he is open to further North Sea fossil fuel drilling.
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Guardian World
Ali Zalzali’s shows gothic glamour in his début couture collection

Ali Zalzali’s shows gothic glamour in his début couture collection

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Fashion designer Ali Zalzali presented his first couture collection called "Natura Morta," inspired by nature and life cycles. He also created a short film to show the feeling behind his handmade pieces, which mix classic and modern styles and reflect his personal background.

Key Facts

  • Ali Zalzali launched his debut couture collection named "Natura Morta."
  • The collection features flowing, botanical shapes inspired by the cycles of plants and human life.
  • Zalzali made a short film to express the atmosphere of his handmade fashion pieces.
  • His designs blend contemporary and classical art influences.
  • Zalzali’s background includes growing up in Lebanon, studying in Italy, and starting his fashion label in Paris.
  • The article discusses how haute couture (high-end custom fashion) can be surprisingly sustainable.
  • The coverage mentions the combination of technology and human creativity in art.
  • The piece is part of a broader cultural discussion including other artists and fashion events.
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France24
From the archives: Pat Oliphant and the art of political cartoons

From the archives: Pat Oliphant and the art of political cartoons

July 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Pat Oliphant, a famous cartoonist known for his sharp political drawings, died on July 13, 2026, at age 90. He was recognized worldwide and won a Pulitzer Prize. In a 2000 interview, Oliphant discussed the history and impact of political cartoons.

Key Facts

  • Pat Oliphant was a Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist.
  • His cartoons appeared in up to 500 publications globally.
  • Oliphant died on July 13, 2026, at the age of 90.
  • He created sharp, critical drawings of political figures.
  • In a 2000 CBS News interview, he spoke about caricature and censorship.
  • He referenced Honoré Daumier, a 19th-century French cartoonist whose work influenced press freedom.
  • Daumier’s cartoons of King Louis Philippe led to reduced press freedom in France in 1835.
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CBS News
Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say

Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say

July 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A meteorite that crashed into a New Jersey home in July 2024 contained rare materials and molecules linked to the origins of life. Scientists found that the meteorite had salty brine and organic compounds, suggesting that such space rocks may have delivered important chemicals to early Earth.

Key Facts

  • The meteorite landed in a New Jersey home in July 2024.
  • The homeowner preserved the fragments carefully, allowing detailed study.
  • The meteorite is a rare type called CM1/2 carbonaceous chondrite.
  • This is only the second time scientists have observed a fall of this meteorite type.
  • Scientists found evidence of salty liquid (brine) on the parent asteroid before the meteorite broke off.
  • The brine contained high salt levels that can help create molecules important for life.
  • The meteorite held organic materials like amino acids and magnesium organic compounds used in living things.
  • Some fragments will be kept at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City for future research.
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CBS News
Senior defense officials considering military action against Cuba

Senior defense officials considering military action against Cuba

July 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The U.S. Pentagon is making plans for a possible military action against Cuba. Senior defense officials are reviewing their options as part of these preparations.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon is creating plans that could lead to military action in Cuba.
  • Senior U.S. defense officials are involved in considering the military options.
  • These plans suggest growing concern about events or threats related to Cuba.
  • The information comes from U.S. government sources.
  • No official decision has been announced yet regarding military action.
  • The situation is under active review and monitoring by U.S. defense leaders.
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CBS News
Dozens rescued in central Texas after region hit by flash flooding for third day in a row

Dozens rescued in central Texas after region hit by flash flooding for third day in a row

July 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Central Texas experienced heavy rain and dangerous flash floods for three days in a row. A tornado formed near San Antonio during the storm, and many people were rescued from flooded areas.

Key Facts

  • Central Texas had heavy rain for three consecutive days.
  • The rain caused flash floods, which can happen suddenly and are very dangerous.
  • A tornado occurred close to San Antonio during the storm.
  • Dozens of people needed to be rescued due to flooding.
  • The storm system was responsible for both the floods and the tornado.
  • Emergency teams worked to help those trapped by the floodwaters.
  • Flash flooding can cause significant damage and threaten lives quickly.
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CBS News
How World Cup football jerseys became political fashion in Latin America

How World Cup football jerseys became political fashion in Latin America

July 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Football shirts in Latin America have become symbols used in political campaigns, especially in Brazil and Colombia. Politicians from the right have linked themselves to national football jerseys to show patriotism, leading to debate over the use of these popular sports symbols in politics.

Key Facts

  • Paulo Duarte, a Brazilian football fan, collects and sells Brazil’s national football shirts.
  • Brazil’s yellow-and-green football jersey has been used by right-wing politicians, including Jair Bolsonaro and his son Flavio Bolsonaro.
  • Flavio Bolsonaro recently called the Brazil jersey "Bolsonaro’s jersey" during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
  • In Colombia, President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella used the national football jersey in his political campaign.
  • Both Brazil and Colombia have been eliminated from the current World Cup, but the political use of football shirts continues.
  • Sociologist Bryan Clift explains that football shirts can represent a shared national identity and are powerful symbols for politicians.
  • The use of football jerseys in politics has caused tension between different political groups in Latin America.
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Al Jazeera
DR Congo's healthcare workers go on strike as Ebola epidemic spreads

DR Congo's healthcare workers go on strike as Ebola epidemic spreads

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Healthcare workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have started a strike because they have not been paid. This strike is happening as the Ebola virus is spreading faster than in previous outbreaks, with over 2,000 cases and 754 deaths reported.

Key Facts

  • Healthcare workers in the DRC are on strike due to unpaid wages.
  • Ebola is spreading rapidly in the DRC, faster than before.
  • More than 2,000 people in the DRC have caught Ebola.
  • There have been 754 deaths linked to the Ebola outbreak.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned about the fast spread of Ebola.
  • The strike is affecting efforts to fight the Ebola epidemic in the DRC.
  • The news was reported by FRANCE 24 and journalist Emmet Livingstone.
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France24
U.S. and Iran trade more attacks as feud over Strait of Hormuz escalates

U.S. and Iran trade more attacks as feud over Strait of Hormuz escalates

July 16, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The United States carried out more military strikes against targets linked to Iran. These actions aim to reduce Iran's ability to threaten ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for international trade.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. launched multiple attacks during the night.
  • The strikes targeted places connected to Iran.
  • The goal was to weaken Iran's threats to commercial shipping.
  • The conflict centers on the Strait of Hormuz, an important shipping route.
  • Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have increased recently over this area.
  • CBS News reported on the situation with coverage by Courtney Kealy.
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CBS News
Common Cooking Ingredient Could Raise the Risk of One Deadly Cancer

Common Cooking Ingredient Could Raise the Risk of One Deadly Cancer

July 16, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A review of studies suggests people who eat a lot of chili peppers might have a higher chance of developing digestive cancers, especially esophageal cancer. Researchers found people with the highest chili pepper intake were nearly three times more likely to get esophageal cancer, but the studies do not prove chili peppers cause cancer.

Key Facts

  • The review looked at 14 studies with over 11,000 people, including more than 5,000 with digestive cancers.
  • People who ate the most chili peppers had a 64% higher chance of digestive cancers overall compared to those who ate the least.
  • The strongest link was for esophageal cancer, with heavy chili pepper eaters nearly three times more likely to develop it.
  • No significant increased risk was found for stomach or colorectal cancers.
  • The studies used are observational, meaning they show possible links but cannot prove that chili peppers cause cancer.
  • Experts say the evidence is not strong enough to tell healthy people to stop eating spicy food.
  • Measuring chili pepper intake is difficult because people report their own eating habits, which can be inaccurate.
  • Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which may have both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects, but its role in cancer is unclear.
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Newsweek
Kenya's Rastafari Society loses case to decriminalise cannabis use

Kenya's Rastafari Society loses case to decriminalise cannabis use

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

A Kenyan court ruled against the Rastafari Society’s request to decriminalize cannabis use. The society had argued that cannabis is important for their religious practices, but the court did not approve their petition.

Key Facts

  • The court case addressed the use of cannabis by the Rastafarian community in Kenya.
  • The Rastafari Society is officially recognized as a religion in Kenya.
  • The community wants cannabis to be legal for religious reasons.
  • The court has been considering the case since 2021.
  • The ruling was made public on July 16, 2026.
  • The court decided not to decriminalize cannabis for Rastafarians.
  • Cannabis remains illegal for religious use in Kenya after this ruling.
  • The case had gained attention because it involved religious freedom and drug laws.
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France24
Italian court convicts 32 over deadly 2018 Genoa Bridge collapse

Italian court convicts 32 over deadly 2018 Genoa Bridge collapse

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

An Italian court sentenced 32 people for their roles in the 2018 collapse of the Morandi bridge in Genoa, which killed 43 people. The former head of motorway operator Autostrade, Giovanni Castellucci, was among those found guilty and sentenced to prison for negligence and vehicular homicide.

Key Facts

  • The Morandi bridge in Genoa collapsed on August 14, 2018, during heavy rain, killing 43 people.
  • Giovanni Castellucci, former chief of Autostrade (the motorway operator), was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
  • Castellucci was accused of delaying important maintenance work on the bridge.
  • A total of 57 people were on trial; 32 were convicted, and 25 were acquitted.
  • The investigation showed little maintenance was done on pillar number nine, which collapsed.
  • Other defendants included executives and technicians from Autostrade and engineering company Spea.
  • Some defense lawyers plan to appeal the guilty verdicts.
  • Italian officials said the collapse was due to serious errors and negligence, not an accident or hidden defects alone.
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France24
Ousted defence chief Mykhailo Fedorov, whose reforms riled Ukraine's army bosses

Ousted defence chief Mykhailo Fedorov, whose reforms riled Ukraine's army bosses

July 16, 2026 • France24

Summary

Mykhailo Fedorov served six months as Ukraine’s defence minister before being dismissed due to conflicts with the military leadership. He tried to modernize the army by improving salaries, introducing rewards, and increasing drone use, but faced strong opposition from top commanders.

Key Facts

  • Fedorov became Ukraine’s defence minister in January 2026 at age 35, the youngest ever in that role.
  • He aimed to reform Ukraine’s army, which was tired after four years of fighting Russia.
  • Reforms included raising soldiers’ pay, planning partial demobilization, and using game-like incentives to reward units.
  • He pushed for more drone purchases and helped cut off Russian units from Starlink internet services.
  • Fedorov clashed with Oleksandr Syrsky, the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, who resisted changes.
  • His dismissal sparked protests in Kyiv, Lviv, and other Ukrainian cities.
  • Fedorov previously worked as Ukraine’s minister for digital transformation and helped President Zelensky win the 2019 election with his social media skills.
  • He sought to use data and technology to improve the military’s performance during the war.
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France24