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A versatile actor whose roles went far beyond Jurassic Park - Sam Neill dies aged 78

A versatile actor whose roles went far beyond Jurassic Park - Sam Neill dies aged 78

July 13, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Sam Neill, a New Zealand actor best known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in Jurassic Park, has died aged 78. He had a long acting career spanning five decades, with notable performances in films like The Piano and Omen III, as well as the Jurassic Park series.

Key Facts

  • Sam Neill was born in 1947 in Northern Ireland and moved to New Zealand at age seven.
  • His birth name was Nigel, but he started calling himself Sam in school.
  • Neill initially studied law but switched to acting after participating in student theater plays.
  • He became known in New Zealand through films like Sleeping Dogs (1977) before moving to Australia.
  • His role in My Brilliant Career (1979) helped establish his international career.
  • He won an Australian Film Institute award in 1988 for his role in A Cry in the Dark.
  • Neill gained worldwide fame playing paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant in the 1993 film Jurassic Park.
  • Jurassic Park was the highest-grossing movie at the time, making Neill a global star.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Former top official Robbins takes legal action over sacking

Former top official Robbins takes legal action over sacking

July 13, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Sir Olly Robbins, a top UK civil servant, is taking legal action after being fired by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer over a security clearance issue involving Lord Mandelson's appointment as UK ambassador to the US. Robbins argues his dismissal was unfair and based on a misunderstanding of vetting rules.

Key Facts

  • Sir Olly Robbins was the top official at the UK's Foreign Office and involved in Brexit negotiations.
  • He was fired by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in April 2025 after Lord Mandelson, appointed UK ambassador to the US, was given security clearance despite concerns.
  • Lord Mandelson was removed from his ambassador role seven months after his appointment due to his past links with Jeffrey Epstein.
  • The FDA union representing Robbins says Robbins’ dismissal lacked fair process and damaged civil service.
  • Robbins says he did not see written vetting documents but received an oral summary calling Mandelson a "borderline case" with possible risk management.
  • Robbins claims he was obligated to keep vetting details confidential and was not required to inform ministers fully.
  • The union argues that Starmer may not have had legal power to dismiss Robbins, who was head of the UK diplomatic service.
  • Robbins says he brought legal action reluctantly and would have preferred an apology and compensation from the prime minister.
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BBC Top Stories
Sudan's paramilitary RSF chief sentenced to death over war crimes

Sudan's paramilitary RSF chief sentenced to death over war crimes

July 13, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A Sudanese court sentenced Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to death for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide related to violence in West Darfur. The court also convicted 15 other RSF leaders in absentia for attacks on civilians and destruction of property during fighting in 2023.

Key Facts

  • Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, leads the paramilitary RSF in Sudan.
  • He and 15 other RSF senior members were sentenced to death by a court in Port Sudan.
  • Charges include war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide in West Darfur.
  • The court found them guilty of attacks on civilians, killing the West Darfur governor, looting, and targeting schools and neighborhoods.
  • Dagalo’s brothers and top commanders were among those sentenced.
  • The court ordered the confiscation of RSF assets and requested international arrest notices.
  • The RSF controls large parts of western Sudan and its leaders are not in custody.
  • The conflict began in April 2023 with a power struggle between the Sudanese army and RSF, causing over 150,000 deaths and many displaced people.
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BBC World
Trump’s Nato remarks rang hollow – but he recognizes something real | Christopher S Chivvis

Trump’s Nato remarks rang hollow – but he recognizes something real | Christopher S Chivvis

July 13, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump has criticized U.S. allies for not sharing enough of the defense burden and threatened to leave NATO, but recent events show limits to his approach. The NATO summit in Turkey revealed that while Trump’s harsh rhetoric is losing impact, the alliance between the U.S. and Europe remains important for peace and security.

Key Facts

  • Trump has long argued that the U.S. carries too much defense responsibility compared to its allies.
  • During his first term, he threatened to withdraw the U.S. from NATO.
  • The recent NATO summit in Turkey showed that Europe is becoming stronger and less reliant on threats from Trump.
  • Trump’s attacks on allies over support against Iran have lost their power and seem less believable.
  • Leaving NATO would create major political problems for Trump and might make the U.S. look weak.
  • Despite the rocky relations, NATO remains crucial because the U.S. and Europe share interests in security and prosperity.
  • Trump’s threats have damaged trust in the U.S. and hurt Washington’s ability to form global partnerships.
  • Some U.S. politicians remain very supportive of military alliances, sometimes without fully considering the costs involved.
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Guardian US
Europeans sanction Russia over alleged "sabotage and espionage" attacks

Europeans sanction Russia over alleged "sabotage and espionage" attacks

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

European countries, including France, have announced sanctions against Russia for a large cyberattack campaign targeting government and infrastructure across Europe. The attacks, linked to Russia's FSB intelligence agency, aimed to spy on and disrupt multiple nations, including Poland, which experienced sabotage of its railway system.

Key Facts

  • France will summon Russia’s ambassador over a major cyberattack campaign across Europe.
  • Nine individuals and four organizations linked to these attacks are being sanctioned by the EU.
  • The Russian FSB intelligence service is accused of orchestrating these cyberattacks.
  • Targets included companies, government ministries, and crucial infrastructure like railways.
  • Poland experienced sabotage on its railway line in November 2025, described as an act of state terror.
  • The UK announced sanctions on 24 individuals and groups for cyber and hybrid operations linked to Russia.
  • Attacks affected at least nine European countries, causing disruptions and financial losses.
  • Russia denies the accusations and criticized the coalition of countries opposing it as “warmongers.”
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CBS News
UK proscribes Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

UK proscribes Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

July 13, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK government has officially labeled Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a threat to national security. Supporting or showing approval for the IRGC in the UK is now illegal and can lead to up to 14 years in prison.

Key Facts

  • The UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, announced the ban on the IRGC on 13 July 2026.
  • The IRGC is linked to threats and intimidation within the UK.
  • Expressing support or helping the IRGC is now a criminal offense in the UK.
  • The maximum penalty for this offense is 14 years in prison.
  • Two other groups, the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR) and Russia’s GRU volunteer corps, are also banned.
  • The National Security (State Threats) Act was fast-tracked earlier in 2026 to allow this proscription.
  • The IRGC is a key part of Iran’s security and intelligence, reporting directly to Iran’s Supreme Leader.
  • The group uses intelligence, proxy forces, and other methods to promote Iran’s goals internationally.
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BBC Top Stories
'Hero, legend, sweetheart': Tributes to Jurassic Park actor Sam Neill, who has died aged 78

'Hero, legend, sweetheart': Tributes to Jurassic Park actor Sam Neill, who has died aged 78

July 13, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Sam Neill, the actor known for his role in Jurassic Park, has died suddenly at the age of 78 in Sydney, Australia. Although he had been treated for cancer in recent years and was cancer-free at the time of his death, his passing was unexpected.

Key Facts

  • Sam Neill was 78 years old when he died in Sydney, Australia.
  • He was best known for playing Dr. Alan Grant in the movie Jurassic Park.
  • Neill was born in Northern Ireland and grew up in New Zealand.
  • He had been treated for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, but was cancer-free when he passed away.
  • Neill’s death was described as sudden and unexpected by his family.
  • Tributes came from New Zealand and Australian leaders, and fellow actors praised his talent and character.
  • Neill acted in other films like The Piano, The Hunt for Red October, Dead Calm, Event Horizon, and the BBC series Peaky Blinders.
  • He was recognized for his contribution to New Zealand’s film industry and culture.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
UK says Iran-backed group Jewish community attacks, bans Revolutionary Guard

UK says Iran-backed group Jewish community attacks, bans Revolutionary Guard

July 13, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

The U.K. government says a group supported by Iran attacked Jewish sites in Britain with fires and vandalism. It has banned this group, called the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right (IMCR), and also banned Iran’s Revolutionary Guard for their role in these attacks.

Key Facts

  • The IMCR, a group backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for at least seven attacks on Jewish sites in the U.K.
  • These attacks included arson (setting fires) at synagogues, Jewish charity ambulances, and a Persian-language media group.
  • No injuries were reported in these attacks.
  • The IMCR is linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, which plans attacks in Europe.
  • The IMCR has also attacked Jewish sites in Belgium and the Netherlands.
  • Iranian-backed proxy groups often recruit criminals to carry out sabotage and violence in Europe.
  • The European Union designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist group earlier in the year.
  • Two Romanian men were recently jailed for stabbing a journalist from a Persian-language TV station in an attack tied to Iran.
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ABC News
South Korea rolls out plan to tackle youth suicide crisis

South Korea rolls out plan to tackle youth suicide crisis

July 13, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

South Korea has started a new plan to reduce the number of young people who take their own lives. The government aims to cut the teen suicide rate by half within the next 10 years.

Key Facts

  • Suicide is the top cause of death among young people in South Korea.
  • The government launched a strategy to lower suicide rates among teenagers.
  • The goal is to reduce teen suicides by 50% over a decade.
  • The plan focuses on addressing the crisis with various measures (not detailed in the article).
  • This issue is considered a major public health concern in South Korea.
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Al Jazeera
Ann Widdecombe death: counter-terrorism police take over investigation

Ann Widdecombe death: counter-terrorism police take over investigation

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Police have taken over the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe after finding new evidence. A man has been arrested and is also being questioned on terrorism-related charges.

Key Facts

  • Ann Widdecombe, a former MP and Reform party spokesperson, was found dead at her home in Devon with serious injuries.
  • Initially, police ruled out terrorism but later handed the case to counter-terrorism police.
  • A 28-year-old man from Rotherham was arrested on suspicion of murder and later on terrorism-related charges.
  • Counter-terrorism policing said new evidence led them to take over the case.
  • National counter-terrorism head Laurence Taylor said they are looking into many possible reasons for the attack.
  • Police encourage anyone with information to come forward to help the investigation.
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Guardian World
UK to list Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorist organisation

UK to list Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorist organisation

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government will officially label Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist group. This decision bans support for the IRGC and responds to threats and attacks linked to the group on UK soil.

Key Facts

  • The UK Home Office announced the listing of the IRGC as a terrorist organization.
  • The IRGC is a key part of Iran’s military.
  • Supporting the IRGC will become a criminal offense in the UK.
  • The UK is also banning two other groups: the Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right (IMCR) and the Russian Federation Volunteer Corps.
  • The decision was made after evidence of threats against the UK, including a plan to kill two journalists and cyber-attacks.
  • This move reverses a previous UK Conservative government decision not to ban the IRGC.
  • The UK government said the bans are to protect the country's safety and interests.
  • The decision may worsen diplomatic relations between the UK and Iran and could lead to the removal of the UK ambassador from Tehran.
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Guardian World
US and Iran exchange fire and disagree on whether strait of Hormuz is open | First Thing

US and Iran exchange fire and disagree on whether strait of Hormuz is open | First Thing

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The US military and Iran have exchanged attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for international shipping. Iran said US actions made peace efforts useless, while the US confirmed its presence to protect navigation and said an alternative route is available.

Key Facts

  • The US military launched new attacks against Iran amid rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran stated that these attacks ruined recent diplomatic efforts and caused increased instability in the region.
  • Iran attacked countries hosting US forces in response, with Jordan shooting down four missiles and Kuwait reacting to hostile aerial targets.
  • Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz was currently closed due to what it called illegal US military actions.
  • The US maintained its forces were there to ensure safe passage and mentioned an expanded route near Oman for ships.
  • Lindsey Graham, a US senator and ally of President Trump, died suddenly at age 71.
  • South Carolina’s governor will appoint a new senator to finish Graham’s term, with a special primary planned for August.
  • Sam Neill, a New Zealand actor known for Jurassic Park and The Piano, died at age 78 after surviving blood cancer.
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Guardian World Guardian US
US, Iran claim control of Strait of Hormuz after weekend strikes

US, Iran claim control of Strait of Hormuz after weekend strikes

July 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The United States and Iran both say they control the Strait of Hormuz after recent fighting. The U.S. military announced it carried out new attacks on Iran, while Iran also claims to have control of the area.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is an important waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
  • Both the U.S. and Iran say they control the Strait after weekend attacks.
  • The U.S. Central Command posted on social media that it completed new offensive strikes against Iran on Sunday.
  • The fighting took place over the weekend and involved military actions from both countries.
  • Control of the Strait of Hormuz is important because it is a major route for global oil shipments.
  • Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have been ongoing in the region for several years.
  • Both countries use media and public statements to share their versions of events.
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The Hill
Al Jazeera bids farewell to founder Sheikh Hamad

Al Jazeera bids farewell to founder Sheikh Hamad

July 13, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Sheikh Hamad, the late Father Emir of Qatar, founded the Al Jazeera news network in 1996. Al Jazeera has changed journalism in the Arab world by providing a voice to groups often ignored by other media.

Key Facts

  • Sheikh Hamad was the Father Emir of Qatar.
  • He passed away recently.
  • He established Al Jazeera in 1996.
  • Al Jazeera offers independent news coverage.
  • The network helped give a platform to marginalized voices.
  • It influenced journalism across the Arab region and globally.
  • Sheikh Hamad’s efforts contributed to promoting free press in Qatar.
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Al Jazeera
Yemen gov’t says its forces attacked Sanaa airport

Yemen gov’t says its forces attacked Sanaa airport

July 13, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Yemen’s government, supported by Saudi Arabia, said it attacked Sanaa airport to stop an Iranian plane from landing there. The capital, Sanaa, is controlled by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who said they will respond to the strike.

Key Facts

  • Yemen’s internationally recognized government is based in Aden and backed by Saudi Arabia and Gulf states.
  • The Houthi rebels control Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and are aligned with Iran.
  • The government said Iranian aircraft tried to enter Yemeni airspace through Sanaa airport.
  • To stop this, government forces targeted the airport runway.
  • The Yemeni defense ministry told civilians and organizations to leave the airport area immediately.
  • The Houthis blamed Saudi Arabia for the attack and vowed retaliation.
  • A Houthi military spokesman warned the attack would have consequences.
  • The situation is ongoing and developing.
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Al Jazeera
German court convicts Iraqi couple of enslaving Yazidi girls

German court convicts Iraqi couple of enslaving Yazidi girls

July 13, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A court in Germany convicted an Iraqi couple of enslaving two Yazidi girls in Iraq and being members of the Islamic State group (IS). The man was sentenced to life in prison for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and sexual abuse, while his wife received a nine-and-a-half-year juvenile sentence.

Key Facts

  • The case was heard at the Munich Higher Regional Court.
  • The couple bought two Yazidi girls as slaves in Mosul, Iraq, in 2015 and 2017.
  • The man, Twana H.S., was sentenced to life for genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and sexual abuse of children.
  • His wife, Asia R.A., received a juvenile prison sentence of nine and a half years.
  • Both were found guilty of being members of the Islamic State group.
  • The Yazidi community is a minority in Iraq that was targeted by IS starting in 2014.
  • Germany prosecutes such cases under universal jurisdiction, allowing war crime trials for crimes committed abroad.
  • The couple was arrested in Bavaria, Germany, in 2024.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Plan to restore nature in England by 2030 criticised as ‘completely insufficient’

Plan to restore nature in England by 2030 criticised as ‘completely insufficient’

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government has released a plan to restore nature in England by 2030. The plan relies on landowners voluntarily protecting nature but has faced criticism for lacking strong legal measures and clear timelines.

Key Facts

  • The plan aims to restore 30% of nature in England by 2030, matching an international commitment made in 2022.
  • Currently, only 7% of England’s land meets the restoration criteria, and the government’s own report says more effort is needed.
  • The plan encourages landowners and communities to work together but does not propose new legal protections for more land.
  • Protected areas called Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are highly valued but no new designations are planned under this strategy.
  • Critics say relying on voluntary action from private landowners is unlikely to be effective.
  • The Church of England is debating a motion to rewild 30% of its land by 2030, which is currently used only 3.5% for nature restoration.
  • Environment minister Mary Creagh called the plan a call to action for land managers, farmers, and communities.
  • Conservation groups like the RSPB describe the plan as insufficient and disappointing.
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Guardian World
Truck carrying wedding guests hit on Indonesia highway, killing 13, police say

Truck carrying wedding guests hit on Indonesia highway, killing 13, police say

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A pickup truck carrying wedding guests crashed between two trucks on a busy highway in Java, Indonesia, killing 13 people and injuring five. The accident happened while the pickup was making a U-turn and was hit from behind, pushing it into the opposite lane where it was struck again.

Key Facts

  • The crash occurred on a highway near Kiajaran Kulon village in Indramayu regency, Java, Indonesia.
  • The victims were returning from a wedding in a nearby village called Parean.
  • The pickup truck slowed and stopped to make a U-turn when it was hit from behind by a wing-box truck.
  • The collision pushed the pickup into the opposite lane, where it was hit by another truck.
  • More than a dozen people were thrown from the pickup onto the highway during the crash.
  • Thirteen people died, and five survivors were hospitalized with injuries.
  • Police are investigating the cause of the accident.
  • Indonesia frequently experiences deadly traffic accidents due to overloaded vehicles and poor road safety compliance.
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CBS News
‘You come out feeling high’: I sang with strangers in a one-day choir – and it was surprisingly spiritual

‘You come out feeling high’: I sang with strangers in a one-day choir – and it was surprisingly spiritual

July 13, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

In Los Angeles, a group called Gaia Music Collective held a one-day choir event where over 100 strangers learned and sang a song together in just a few hours. These choirs are becoming popular worldwide as they offer people a way to connect, feel joy, and experience a sense of community through music.

Key Facts

  • The event took place in a former synagogue near downtown Los Angeles with hardwood floors for good sound.
  • More than 100 people, many who had never met before, gathered to learn and sing a song from the Hannah Montana movie.
  • Gaia Music Collective started in Brooklyn during the pandemic to create human connection through singing.
  • Similar one-day choirs are happening in cities across the US and in countries like Canada and Australia.
  • The choirs serve as a response to growing loneliness and fewer social gatherings or religious services in recent years.
  • Participants describe the experience as spiritually uplifting and healing, even without a religious focus.
  • Ticket prices ranged from $15 to $35, making it an affordable way to join a group music event.
  • Gaia also holds other music events like improvisation and open mics, some of which have gained millions of views online.
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Guardian US
Extended interview: Sean Evans on his path to "Hot Ones," his Conan O'Brien interview and more

Extended interview: Sean Evans on his path to "Hot Ones," his Conan O'Brien interview and more

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Sean Evans talks about how he became the host of the interview show "Hot Ones," where he asks celebrities questions while they eat spicy wings. He also discusses his recent interview with Conan O'Brien and shares who he would like to have on the show in the future.

Key Facts

  • Sean Evans is the host of "Hot Ones," a show where guests eat spicy chicken wings while answering questions.
  • He recently interviewed comedian and talk show host Conan O'Brien on the show.
  • Evans explains how he started hosting "Hot Ones."
  • He shares some of his favorite moments from the show.
  • Evans talks about celebrities he hopes to interview next.
  • The interview was conducted by CBS News correspondent Vladimir Duthiers.
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CBS News