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'Preventive measures' needed to avoid 'increasingly common' wildfires, says Spanish PM

'Preventive measures' needed to avoid 'increasingly common' wildfires, says Spanish PM

Summary

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called for stronger actions to prevent wildfires after a deadly fire killed 13 people and destroyed a large area. He visited the affected region to support emergency workers who are fighting the fire.

Key Facts

  • A major wildfire in Spain killed 13 people.
  • The fire destroyed a large amount of land.
  • Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited the area during firefighting efforts.
  • Sanchez urged for better wildfire prevention measures.
  • Wildfires are becoming more common in Spain.
  • Emergency services are actively working to control the fire.
  • The event is one of the deadliest wildfires in recent Spanish history.
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'Whenever biodiversity decays, you decay': French biologist Marc-André Selosse

'Whenever biodiversity decays, you decay': French biologist Marc-André Selosse

Summary

French biologist Marc-André Selosse warns that losing biodiversity is a major global problem that affects human survival. He says protecting nature is essential not just for the environment, but for humanity’s future, and criticizes politicians for giving biodiversity little attention in important debates like France’s 2022 presidential election.

Key Facts

  • Marc-André Selosse is a professor and author focused on biodiversity and its importance to humans.
  • He believes biodiversity should be protected because it supports human life, not just for nature itself.
  • Biodiversity received only about one percent of attention during France’s 2022 presidential election discussions.
  • Selosse is from the French National Museum of Natural History and also works at the University of Gdańsk.
  • He wrote a book titled "De la biodiversité comme un humanisme" which translates to "Biodiversity as a Form of Humanism."
  • The destruction of biodiversity is described as one of today’s major challenges that needs more public focus.
  • The article emphasizes that when biodiversity declines, it harms humans too.
  • The discussion comes amid concerns about environmental protection and global biodiversity loss.
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China Calls for Strait of Hormuz To Be Reopened

China Calls for Strait of Hormuz To Be Reopened

Summary

China has asked for safe use of the Strait of Hormuz after Iran said it is closed following recent attacks between Iran and the U.S. The strait is important because a large amount of the world’s oil and China’s oil come through it.

Key Facts

  • Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed after heavy attacks between Iran and U.S. forces.
  • The Strait of Hormuz carries about 25% of the world’s sea oil trade and 40% of China’s oil imports.
  • China wants the strait reopened quickly for safe and free passage.
  • The U.S. and Iran carried out multiple attacks on military targets recently, escalating tensions.
  • Iran is charging some ships a fee to pass through the strait, but the U.S. opposes this.
  • China buys most of Iran’s oil and has held talks with Iranian officials amidst the conflict.
  • China helped quietly in a ceasefire effort between the U.S. and Iran in April but avoids deeper involvement.
  • President Donald Trump threatened a large attack and naval blockade against Iran recently.
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Russian anti-war politician Boris Nadezhdin detained by police

Russian anti-war politician Boris Nadezhdin detained by police

Summary

Russian politician Boris Nadezhdin, known for opposing the war and trying to run against President Vladimir Putin in 2024, was detained by police near Moscow. He was labeled a "foreign agent" and barred from elections due to alleged irregularities with his candidacy.

Key Facts

  • Boris Nadezhdin was taken by police from his home on a Monday morning near Moscow.
  • He announced plans to run in Russia's parliamentary elections in September 2024.
  • The Russian justice ministry branded him a "foreign agent," accusing him of spreading false information and promoting unauthorized protests.
  • This label prevented him from participating in the September elections.
  • In early 2024, he had tried to run for president with an anti-war platform calling to end the conflict in Ukraine.
  • Nadezhdin claimed some support among citizens unhappy with Russia's politics under Putin.
  • He was disqualified from the 2024 presidential election due to problems with required signature collections.
  • President Putin won a fifth term in March 2024 and can remain in power until 2036 due to constitutional changes.
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What is Japan’s new intelligence agency, and why is Tokyo building it?

What is Japan’s new intelligence agency, and why is Tokyo building it?

Summary

Japan is creating its first central intelligence agency since World War II to improve its ability to detect and respond to foreign threats like spying and interference. The new agency will centralize intelligence work and aims to reduce reliance on U.S. support amid growing concerns about nearby countries such as China, Russia, and North Korea.

Key Facts

  • Japan’s National Diet passed laws in May to create a National Intelligence Council and a National Intelligence Bureau.
  • These new bodies will take over and expand the work of the current Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office (CIRO).
  • The reform seeks to improve cooperation among intelligence agencies and make intelligence more useful to policymakers.
  • Japan has traditionally depended on U.S. intelligence support but wants to gather intelligence independently now.
  • The move follows concerns about threats from North Korea, Russia, and China.
  • Japan currently lacks laws against spying and foreign influence, making foreign intelligence work easier in the country.
  • Experts say Japan’s current decentralized intelligence agencies cannot effectively share information or force cooperation.
  • Allies like the U.S., Germany, and Australia are advising Japan on creating this new agency.
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Middle East War: Iran claims strikes on US bases in multiple countries

Middle East War: Iran claims strikes on US bases in multiple countries

Summary

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they attacked US military bases in several Middle Eastern countries. This followed US strikes on sites inside Iran. President Donald Trump said the US may act as the protector of the Strait of Hormuz and expects payment for this role.

Key Facts

  • Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed to strike US bases in multiple Middle Eastern countries.
  • The Iranian strikes were in response to US attacks on targets inside Iran.
  • Both the US and Iran claim control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
  • President Donald Trump stated the US will "probably become the guardian" of the Strait of Hormuz.
  • President Trump said the US should be reimbursed for protecting the strait.
  • The conflict has increased tensions in the Middle East region.
  • The situation affects global energy supply routes passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Fox News conducted a phone interview with President Trump on this issue on July 13, 2026.
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Dozens at Ebola treatment center in northeast Congo go on strike over unpaid salaries

Dozens at Ebola treatment center in northeast Congo go on strike over unpaid salaries

Summary

Dozens of workers at an Ebola treatment center in northeast Congo have stopped working because they have not been paid their salaries and bonuses. This strike follows a recent Ebola outbreak caused by a rare virus with no approved vaccine or treatment.

Key Facts

  • The strike involves staff at Rwampara General Hospital in Ituri province, Congo.
  • Workers on strike include epidemiologists, case investigators, drivers, and gravediggers.
  • They have not received payment from Congolese authorities since the Ebola outbreak started in May 2026.
  • The Ebola outbreak was officially declared on May 15, but the virus had been spreading for weeks before that.
  • The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a rare Ebola strain without approved vaccines or treatments.
  • The hospital was temporarily closed by the striking workers who also blocked access roads.
  • The strike began last week and continues due to concerns about unpaid wages.
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Questions swirl over emergency exits in deadly Bangkok bar fire

Questions swirl over emergency exits in deadly Bangkok bar fire

Summary

A deadly fire broke out in a bar in Bangkok. Officials are investigating what caused the fire and whether emergency exits were blocked, which may have affected people’s ability to escape.

Key Facts

  • The fire happened in a bar located in Bangkok, Thailand.
  • Several people died as a result of the fire.
  • Authorities have started an investigation to find the cause of the fire.
  • There are concerns that some emergency exits might have been blocked.
  • Blocked exits could have made it harder for people to leave the building safely.
  • The investigation is ongoing to determine all the details.
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Iran launches drone, missile attacks on dissident bases in Iraqi Kurdistan

Iran launches drone, missile attacks on dissident bases in Iraqi Kurdistan

Summary

Iran's military launched drone and missile attacks on Kurdish militia bases located in Iraqi Kurdistan. These strikes targeted groups that oppose the Iranian government amid ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel.

Key Facts

  • The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked Kurdish militia camps near Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan on July 1 and 2, 2026.
  • The attacks involved ballistic missiles, drones, rockets, and caused large fires visible from a distance.
  • Iranian Kurdish militia groups such as the Kurdistan Freedom Party (PAK), Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan, and PJAK were targeted.
  • Clashes between Iranian forces and Kurdish militias in Iran’s Kurdish region killed at least 15 militants and 5 IRGC members in late June and early July.
  • The conflict is connected to the larger US-Israel war against Iran that began in February 2026.
  • Kurdish groups have denied receiving weapons from foreign powers and claimed they did not initiate attacks.
  • Israeli planes bombed border areas between Iran and Iraqi Kurdistan, where Kurdish militias operate.
  • Four main Kurdish dissident groups active in Iran include Komala, Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan, PAK, and PJAK, some with historical ties to the PKK.
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Ursula von der Leyen pledges EU-wide social media ban for children

Ursula von der Leyen pledges EU-wide social media ban for children

Summary

The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced plans for a Europe-wide ban on social media use by children under 13. This follows expert advice aiming to protect children from harmful online content and addictive features on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others.

Key Facts

  • Ursula von der Leyen supports an EU-wide social media ban for children younger than 13 years.
  • Experts recommend staged internet use restrictions by age group to protect children’s safety online.
  • Some EU countries, including France, Spain, and Greece, have announced higher age limits for social media use (15 or 16 years).
  • Estonia opposes blanket bans, preferring to regulate platform behavior instead.
  • Australia already bans social media use for minors under 16.
  • The EU has opened investigations against Meta (Facebook, Instagram) and TikTok for addictive app designs like infinite scrolling and personalized algorithms.
  • Experts say children aged 10 to 13 are especially vulnerable to social media harm, particularly affecting body image in girls.
  • Recommendations suggest digital services should be safe and age-appropriate, with evolving autonomy after age 13 as the brain develops.
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France's combat helicopters train ahead of Bastille day parade

France's combat helicopters train ahead of Bastille day parade

Summary

A group of French army tiger helicopters trained in the skies near Paris before flying in the July 14 Bastille Day parade. Some of these helicopters recently completed a mission in the Middle East where they destroyed Iranian drones that threatened Gulf countries.

Key Facts

  • France is preparing a fleet of tiger helicopters for the Bastille Day parade over Paris.
  • Bastille Day is celebrated on July 14 each year in France.
  • Four of these helicopters took part in an official mission in the Middle East recently.
  • During that mission, the helicopters destroyed Iranian Shahed drones targeting Gulf states.
  • The helicopter pilots rehearsed their flight between Chartres and Paris.
  • The tiger helicopters are among the most powerful combat aircraft in the French army.
  • The article includes video coverage of the training flights.
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Summer soundtrack: Charli XCX and the return of The Strokes

Summer soundtrack: Charli XCX and the return of The Strokes

Summary

The article highlights new music releases for summer 2026, featuring the indie band The Strokes releasing their first album in six years, called "Reality Awaits." It also covers British pop star Charli XCX’s new album "Music, Fashion, Film," and includes interviews with musicians Ibeyi and French artist Aupinard.

Key Facts

  • The Strokes are releasing "Reality Awaits," their first album in six years.
  • Charli XCX’s seventh album is titled "Music, Fashion, Film."
  • Charli XCX’s album cover features John Cale, Marc Jacobs, and Martin Scorsese.
  • The article includes a song called "Wink Wink" from Charli XCX’s album.
  • Franco-Cuban twins Ibeyi released a new album called "Offering."
  • French artist Aupinard is touring festivals with his debut album "spleen. social club."
  • The article is part of a music show segment that promotes new summer music.
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Bison tosses man 8 feet in the air at Yellowstone, video shows

Bison tosses man 8 feet in the air at Yellowstone, video shows

Summary

A 65-year-old man was seriously injured when a bull bison tossed him about eight feet into the air at Yellowstone National Park. The bison charged and hit the man with its horns, and emergency responders took him to a hospital. Visitors are reminded to keep a safe distance from bison and other wildlife in the park.

Key Facts

  • A bull bison threw a 65-year-old man eight feet into the air at Yellowstone National Park.
  • The incident happened near a campground and was captured on video by a professional photographer.
  • The man was seriously injured and taken to a nearby hospital by emergency responders.
  • The bison charged at the man after he was standing about 100 yards from where the bison was resting.
  • Bison bulls can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and run much faster than humans.
  • Yellowstone National Park advises visitors to stay at least 25 yards away from bison and other common wildlife.
  • This incident follows other recent injuries caused by bison in Yellowstone, including one involving a 12-year-old in late June.
  • Bison are known to be unpredictable and may act aggressively if they feel their space is threatened.
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In final speech to armed forces, Macron urges European defence porjects

In final speech to armed forces, Macron urges European defence porjects

Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron said on July 13, 2026, that Europe must be ready to defend itself, even with force if needed. He made these remarks before a meeting of Ukraine’s allies to show continued support for Ukraine and to increase pressure on Russia.

Key Facts

  • President Macron delivered his speech at the French Ministry of Defense in Paris.
  • The speech was his final address to the armed forces before Bastille Day, France’s national holiday.
  • Macron emphasized that Europe is prepared to defend freedom, including through bloodshed if necessary.
  • The statement came ahead of a meeting of countries supporting Ukraine.
  • The goal of the meeting is to reaffirm support for Kyiv and put more pressure on Russia.
  • The speech is part of Macron’s push for stronger European defense projects.
  • The context includes ongoing conflicts involving Ukraine and Russia.
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Probe into intentional start of Fontainebleau fire underway

Probe into intentional start of Fontainebleau fire underway

Summary

French officials are investigating the Fontainebleau forest fire near Paris to see if it was started on purpose. The fire comes during France’s third heatwave this year, which has also caused other fires across the country.

Key Facts

  • The fire is in the Fontainebleau forest, south of Paris.
  • French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said authorities suspect the fire may have been set intentionally.
  • France is experiencing its third major heatwave since May 2026.
  • Several fires have broken out in different parts of France over the past week.
  • The Fontainebleau forest is sometimes called the "lungs of greater Paris" because of its large woodlands.
  • The investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
  • The heatwaves have increased the risk and severity of forest fires in France.
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Sam Neill, who starred in "Jurassic Park" and "The Piano," dies at 78

Sam Neill, who starred in "Jurassic Park" and "The Piano," dies at 78

Summary

Actor Sam Neill, known for his roles in the movies "Jurassic Park" and "The Piano," died at the age of 78. His family said he had been fighting cancer but had recovered, making his death a surprise.

Key Facts

  • Sam Neill was an actor famous for "Jurassic Park" and "The Piano."
  • He died at 78 years old.
  • Neill had been battling cancer before his death.
  • His family reported that he had beaten cancer.
  • The family described his death as unexpected.
  • News of his death was shared by his family in a statement.
  • The announcement was reported by CBS News.
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The late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s legacy on women’s reform

The late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s legacy on women’s reform

Summary

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013. During his time as Emir, he made important changes that improved the role and rights of women in Qatar.

Key Facts

  • Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was the Emir (leader) of Qatar for 18 years, from 1995 to 2013.
  • His rule focused on social reforms that supported women’s empowerment.
  • He introduced policies and changes that increased women’s participation in society.
  • These reforms helped shape modern Qatar with more opportunities for women.
  • His efforts left a lasting impact on the country’s development related to gender equality.
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Video shows bison charging at 65-year-old man at Yellowstone National Park

Video shows bison charging at 65-year-old man at Yellowstone National Park

Summary

A 65-year-old man was chased and thrown into the air by a bull bison at Yellowstone National Park. The incident happened when the man and his grandson were about 100 yards away from the bison.

Key Facts

  • The man was 65 years old.
  • A bull bison charged him through the trees.
  • The bison flipped the man about 8 feet into the air.
  • The man was with his grandson at the time.
  • They were approximately 100 yards away from the bison when it charged.
  • The event took place at Yellowstone National Park.
  • The incident was captured on video by a nearby photographer.
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Irish police to engage with Jordanian force in murder investigation

Irish police to engage with Jordanian force in murder investigation

Summary

Irish police are working with law enforcement in Jordan to investigate the murder of a woman named Jamey Carney in Killarney, Ireland. A man connected to the case has left Ireland and traveled to Jordan, a country that does not have a formal agreement to send suspects back to Ireland.

Key Facts

  • Jamey Carney, originally from New York, was found dead last Tuesday in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland.
  • Gardaí (Irish police) responded to the incident and pronounced her dead at the scene.
  • A man considered a "person of interest" in the case left Ireland shortly after the incident.
  • The man traveled by bus to Dublin and then flew to Jordan, where he is believed to be from.
  • Irish police have alerted Interpol and Europol and are working with Jordanian law enforcement.
  • There is no extradition treaty between Ireland and Jordan, which may make legal proceedings difficult.
  • Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan said the police are pursuing every possible lead to bring the suspect to justice.
  • The man has not been publicly named by the police.
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U.S. and Iran continue to trade strikes amid battle over Strait of Hormuz

U.S. and Iran continue to trade strikes amid battle over Strait of Hormuz

Summary

The United States and Iran are continuing to carry out military strikes against each other. The conflict is focused on control over the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Iran are involved in ongoing attacks against each other.
  • The fight is over control of the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key shipping route for oil.
  • Both countries have a military presence in the area.
  • The conflict has caused increased tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
  • The situation remains unstable with no resolution in sight.
  • CBS News reporter Weijia Jiang is covering the story.
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