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British couple return to village at heart of deadly Spanish wildfire

British couple return to village at heart of deadly Spanish wildfire

July 13, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A wildfire in Spain’s Almeria province killed at least 13 people, including five believed to be British. The fire burned about 7,000 hectares of land and forced around 1,500 people to evacuate, with some now allowed to return to see the damage.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire occurred in Almeria province, southeastern Spain.
  • At least 13 people died, including several British citizens.
  • A 93-year-old British woman died later in hospital from injuries.
  • The fire burned approximately 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) of land.
  • Winds up to 50 km/h (31 mph) helped the fire spread quickly.
  • About 1,500 people were evacuated; roughly 600 were allowed to return.
  • Some homes, including that of a British couple Emma and Simon Mitchell, survived the fire.
  • Authorities did not issue a widespread alert fearing it might cause confusion and complicate evacuations.
  • Local officials visited residents to give instructions on sheltering or evacuating.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
US launches more strikes on Iran as Strait of Hormuz standoff deepens

US launches more strikes on Iran as Strait of Hormuz standoff deepens

July 13, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States has carried out new military strikes on Iran to stop Iran from threatening ships in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump stated that the waterway is open, while Iran claims it is closed, causing increased tensions between the two countries.

Key Facts

  • The US launched recent strikes aimed at Iran's ability to threaten shipping lanes.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global shipping.
  • President Donald Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz open for navigation.
  • Iran claims the Strait of Hormuz is closed.
  • The conflicting claims have led to an escalation of attacks and tensions.
  • The situation is ongoing and is causing concern over safety in the region.
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Al Jazeera
Fontainebleau forest near Paris hit by 'very virulent' wildfire

Fontainebleau forest near Paris hit by 'very virulent' wildfire

July 13, 2026 • France24

Summary

A fast-moving wildfire has burned about 800 hectares of the Fontainebleau forest near Paris, forcing partial closure of a major highway and evacuations. Firefighters, including two firefighting planes sent from southern France, are working to control the blaze amid a strong heatwave.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire started late on July 12, 2026, in Fontainebleau forest, about 60 km southeast of Paris.
  • It burned roughly 800 hectares and was still spreading as of early July 13.
  • The fire caused a partial closure of the A6 motorway, a major highway near Paris.
  • Around 15 homes in the nearby village of Vaudoue were evacuated.
  • Approximately 400 firefighters, two firefighting planes, two helicopters, and an observation aircraft are involved in fighting the fire.
  • Firefighting planes usually come from southern France, a drier and hotter region, and were deployed to the Paris area for the first time.
  • The fire disrupted traffic on highways and delayed trains at Paris’s Gare de Lyon station by up to six hours.
  • The region is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, increasing the risk of wildfires and complicating firefighting efforts.
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France24
Starting uni? What to know about having the free NHS meningitis B jab

Starting uni? What to know about having the free NHS meningitis B jab

July 13, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A free meningitis B vaccine is now available at many high street pharmacies in England for young people, especially those starting university or college for the first time. The vaccine protects against a dangerous bacterial infection that caused a large outbreak in Kent earlier this year and is given in two doses.

Key Facts

  • The vaccine protects against meningitis B, a serious bacterial infection that can cause brain inflammation and blood poisoning.
  • It does not contain live bacteria and cannot cause meningitis.
  • Common side effects include pain and redness at the injection site, mild fever, and headache, which usually go away in one or two days.
  • Vaccinations can be booked at pharmacies from July 13, with appointments from July 20.
  • Eligible groups include 17- and 18-year-olds registered with a GP and students under 25 starting university or residential college in England for the first time this autumn.
  • International students and students from other parts of the UK studying in England can also get the vaccine.
  • The vaccine requires two doses given at least 28 days apart for full protection.
  • The vaccine program follows a recent outbreak in Kent with 29 cases and 2 deaths, aiming to reduce risk among students sharing close living spaces.
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BBC Top Stories
The Chinese graduate accused of being Mexico's 'fentanyl king'

The Chinese graduate accused of being Mexico's 'fentanyl king'

July 13, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Zhang Zhidong, a Chinese national called the "king of fentanyl," is accused of being a key figure in a drug trafficking operation involving fentanyl shipped from China to Mexico. He was arrested in Mexico in 2024, escaped briefly, then was sent to the US in 2025 where he awaits trial for drug trafficking and money laundering.

Key Facts

  • Zhang Zhidong is a 39-year-old Chinese man accused of leading fentanyl trafficking.
  • Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid about 50 times stronger than heroin.
  • He was arrested in Mexico in 2024, escaped, and was later extradited to the US in 2025.
  • US authorities say Zhang ran a global operation moving fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine into the US.
  • Zhang has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial in New York.
  • He graduated from Peking University with a Spanish degree and worked in Mexico for a Chinese mining company.
  • Zhang is believed to have built links between Chinese chemical factories and Mexican drug labs.
  • US President Donald Trump has called fentanyl dealers "narco-terrorists" and classified fentanyl components as weapons.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
UK heatwave to intensify again as it enters second week

UK heatwave to intensify again as it enters second week

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to rise again this week. Some places in England and Wales could reach mid-30 degrees Celsius, while Scotland and Northern Ireland may also see heatwave temperatures. Health alerts are in place due to the risks from high heat and humidity.

Key Facts

  • The UK’s third heatwave of 2024 is intensifying after a brief temperature drop.
  • Temperatures in parts of England and Wales could reach around 34 to 35 degrees Celsius.
  • Scotland and Northern Ireland may experience heatwave conditions, with temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius.
  • Heat health alerts (amber and yellow) are active until the evening of July 15, warning of health risks.
  • The heatwave poses increased risks for older people and those with health conditions.
  • Night-time temperatures may stay above 20 degrees Celsius, causing some “tropical nights.”
  • Wildfire risk is high in England and Wales, with some areas at "exceptional" risk.
  • A possible weather change later this week might bring some cooler air, but the heatwave could return quickly.
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BBC Top Stories
Burnham set for No 10: BBC correspondents on what Trump, Putin and others will make of him

Burnham set for No 10: BBC correspondents on what Trump, Putin and others will make of him

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Andy Burnham is expected to become the United Kingdom's next prime minister. Different countries like the US, China, and Russia are watching closely to see how Burnham will handle foreign relations and policies compared to the current government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Key Facts

  • President Trump has been dismissive of Burnham so far and is unsure Burnham will change UK policies on immigration and North Sea oil drilling.
  • US officials are watching closely and hope Burnham’s government will keep British foreign policy steady, including keeping Yvette Cooper as foreign secretary.
  • Trump and other US officials want the UK to increase defense spending even more than under Starmer.
  • Burnham previously admired China’s high-speed rail and was open to cooperation at a regional level, but as prime minister he will face balancing economic benefits with national security concerns.
  • China’s leaders are frustrated with frequent UK political changes and see it as instability after Brexit.
  • Russia expects Burnham’s government will not change relations with the UK significantly.
  • Burnham is relatively unknown in the US, which poses both opportunities and risks for building relations with President Trump.
  • There are ongoing tensions over US access to British military bases related to the Iran conflict.
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BBC Top Stories
New era for Gibraltar with removal of 118-year-old border controls with Spain

New era for Gibraltar with removal of 118-year-old border controls with Spain

July 12, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Gibraltar and Spain will remove the border controls between them from July 15, ending a border barrier that has existed for 118 years. This change comes from an agreement between the UK and the European Union after Brexit, aiming to allow free movement and improve the local economy.

Key Facts

  • Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory with about 40,000 residents.
  • Around 15,000 Spanish workers cross the Gibraltar border daily for jobs.
  • The border controls have caused long waiting times during rush hours.
  • The border has existed since 1908 and was part of past conflicts.
  • The new agreement aligns Gibraltar with the EU customs union and Schengen free travel zone.
  • People coming from outside Schengen, like from the UK, will still need to show passports.
  • La Línea de la Concepción, the Spanish town next to Gibraltar, has about 30% unemployment.
  • Removing the border is expected to benefit the economy on both sides by easing travel and trade.
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BBC Business BBC World BBC Top Stories
Thousands may have died in UK's exceptional May and June heatwaves

Thousands may have died in UK's exceptional May and June heatwaves

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Experts estimate that over 2,700 people may have died from heat-related causes during unusually hot weather in the UK in May and June. The heatwaves were caused by a “heat dome” made worse by human-driven climate change, setting new temperature records and increasing health risks.

Key Facts

  • The UK recorded its warmest June ever, with temperatures reaching 37.7°C (99.9°F) in Norfolk.
  • A red heat alert was issued in parts of England and Wales, warning of serious risks even to healthy people.
  • May 2026 saw temperatures hit 35.1°C, breaking a century-old record.
  • The heat dome, a high-pressure system trapping hot air, was intensified by climate change adding 3-4°C to temperatures.
  • Heatwaves caused physical stress, especially for babies, older adults, and those with health problems, increasing risks of heart attacks and strokes.
  • The humid conditions in June made it harder for bodies to cool down by sweating.
  • Death estimates are based on modeling using past data and may change as more information becomes available.
  • Heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and severe unless global greenhouse gas emissions decrease.
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BBC Top Stories
US launches new wave of strikes against Iran, aimed at ‘degrading’ military

US launches new wave of strikes against Iran, aimed at ‘degrading’ military

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States launched new strikes against Iran to reduce Iran’s ability to attack ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. These strikes are part of ongoing conflicts between the two countries over control of this important waterway, with both sides continuing to attack each other.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Central Command began attacks on Iran to weaken its military targets related to drone, missile, and naval operations.
  • President Donald Trump authorized these strikes aimed at holding Iran accountable.
  • Iran experienced explosions near the Strait of Hormuz, including areas like Sirik, Qeshm Island, and Bandar Abbas.
  • No civilian casualties were reported so far according to local officials.
  • The fighting escalated starting July 7, with multiple rounds of attacks in the past week.
  • The conflict relates to a recent memorandum intended to pause hostilities and allow safe passage for commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran has fired drones at commercial ships it claims violated its territorial waters, while the U.S. considers these attacks breaches of the agreement.
  • Despite Iran claiming the Strait is closed, the U.S. says it remains open for traffic.
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Al Jazeera
More sweltering heat and flash flooding are expected across the nation

More sweltering heat and flash flooding are expected across the nation

July 12, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Many parts of the United States are facing extreme weather, including more heat waves and flash floods. Heavy rain has caused flooding in several states, while very high temperatures are breaking records in the West and northern Plains, with some areas also facing fire risks.

Key Facts

  • Flash flooding and heavy rain occurred from Tennessee to West Virginia, causing water rescues including over 160 teenagers in Missouri.
  • Flood watches were active on July 12 for cities like Nashville, Lexington, and Charleston.
  • Severe thunderstorms with strong winds were expected in the Carolinas and eastern Georgia.
  • A woman was found dead after floodwaters in Missouri swept her away near Huzzah Creek.
  • Extreme heat warnings were issued from Utah to Minnesota, with temperatures over 100 degrees in many places.
  • Some cities, like Salt Lake City, Billings, and Miles City, recorded their highest temperatures ever.
  • Hot and dry weather increased fire dangers in parts of the Northwest.
  • Monsoon storms with strong winds could hit southern Arizona, causing dust and damage risk.
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ABC News
Sealand: The micronation carving its own path

Sealand: The micronation carving its own path

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Sealand is a small platform in the North Sea that claims to be its own country. It is run by Prince Michael Bates and his family, who maintain the site and fund it by selling souvenirs, online citizenship, and honorary titles.

Key Facts

  • Sealand is located about seven miles off the eastern coast of England on a former World War II British fort.
  • The platform is about the size of two tennis courts and includes two seven-story towers.
  • Sealand has a constitution, government, a national anthem, and a permanent population of one.
  • The Bates family has owned and maintained Sealand since 1967, spending millions of dollars over the years.
  • To reach Sealand, visitors are brought by boat and then hoisted onto the platform using a swing.
  • The family raises money by selling Sealand-themed items, digital and physical citizenships, and honorary noble titles online.
  • For $9.99 per month, people can buy "E-Citizenship" that supports ocean cleanup efforts near Sealand.
  • The platform serves as both a physical micronation and an internet-based community and project.
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CBS News
Vatican sent children born out of wedlock to America as orphans for adoption

Vatican sent children born out of wedlock to America as orphans for adoption

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

From 1950 to 1970, the Vatican sent about 3,500 Italian children, many born to unmarried mothers, to the United States as orphans for adoption, even though most were not true orphans. These mothers often did not consent and were unaware their children had been sent abroad, leading to lifelong search efforts by adoptees and birth parents.

Key Facts

  • Between 1950 and 1970, the Vatican arranged for around 3,500 Italian children to be adopted in the U.S. under an orphan visa program.
  • Many of these children had living mothers who were unmarried and forced to give up their babies.
  • Mothers were often not informed or did not consent to their children being adopted or sent overseas.
  • A 1950 U.S. law expanded the definition of "orphan" to include children with one parent who could not provide care, enabling the program.
  • Birth records were altered to list children as abandoned, making adoption easier.
  • Mothers like Francesca, who placed her child in a Catholic institution temporarily, never agreed to permanent adoption.
  • Thousands of American adoptees continue to search for their biological families.
  • The Vatican and Catholic Church have faced criticism for their role in these forced and secretive adoptions.
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CBS News
Children reunite with moms after Vatican's orphan program | 60 Minutes

Children reunite with moms after Vatican's orphan program | 60 Minutes

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

For many years, unwed mothers in Italy were pushed to give up their children, and thousands of these babies were sent to the United States. Now, some of these children and their mothers are reconnecting and seeking more information about their past.

Key Facts

  • In Italy, unwed mothers faced social pressure to give up babies born outside of marriage.
  • Thousands of children were sent from Italy to families in the United States.
  • The Vatican had a program related to these orphaned children and their adoptions.
  • Decades later, some of these children and their biological mothers are reuniting.
  • The reunions are helping families understand what happened and find answers about their history.
  • The story was featured on the CBS News program "60 Minutes."
  • This issue involves both Italian social history and international adoption practices.
  • The reunions provide emotional closure for many families affected.
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CBS News
Welcome to Sealand, the world's smallest state | 60 Minutes

Welcome to Sealand, the world's smallest state | 60 Minutes

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Sealand is a small offshore platform near England that claims to be the world’s smallest country. It has only one person who lives there all the time and has its own royal family.

Key Facts

  • Sealand is located on a platform off the coast of England.
  • It is known as the smallest state in the world.
  • There is only one permanent resident living on Sealand.
  • Sealand has a royal family associated with it.
  • The platform was featured in a CBS News segment on 60 Minutes.
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CBS News
7/12/2026: The Vatican's Orphans; Sealand; Christopher Nolan

7/12/2026: The Vatican's Orphans; Sealand; Christopher Nolan

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The CBS News program on July 12, 2026, covers three main topics: children in the Vatican’s care, an introduction to the small country called Sealand, and an interview with filmmaker Christopher Nolan.

Key Facts

  • The report discusses orphans who are under the care of the Vatican.
  • Sealand is described as the world’s smallest independent state.
  • The program features an interview with Christopher Nolan on the show "60 Minutes."
  • The news is available through the CBS News app and online browsers.
  • The coverage spans social issues, unique countries, and entertainment.
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CBS News
Middle East live: US strikes Iran as Gulf states targeted in flareup over Hormuz

Middle East live: US strikes Iran as Gulf states targeted in flareup over Hormuz

July 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

The US military launched new attacks on Iran following an escalation of fighting around the Strait of Hormuz, where Gulf states allied with the US were targeted. This violence has disrupted a temporary peace agreement between Washington and Tehran and affected global oil prices.

Key Facts

  • On July 11 and 12, 2026, the US conducted multiple strikes against Iran, including about 140 strikes the night before the latest wave.
  • The conflict reignited after Iran attacked a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz, forcing the crew to abandon it.
  • Iran reported attacks on its southern islands, while Kuwait said border posts and an offshore oil platform were targeted.
  • The Strait of Hormuz remains open for shipping, according to the US military, despite Iranian claims it was closed.
  • President Donald Trump stated the US hit Iran hard in response to recent attacks on shipping.
  • The fighting has endangered a temporary agreement meant to end the war between the US and Iran, which started in late February 2026.
  • Oil prices rose sharply after the flare-up, with US crude futures climbing over 3.5 percent to above $74 a barrel.
  • The conflict involves multiple Gulf allies of the US, including Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
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France24
Middle East crisis live: US launches new wave of strikes on Iran; Tehran says attacks render diplomacy ‘futile’

Middle East crisis live: US launches new wave of strikes on Iran; Tehran says attacks render diplomacy ‘futile’

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The US has launched a new series of strikes against Iran to reduce Iran's ability to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on US facilities and nearby countries, increasing tensions and threatening recent diplomatic efforts.

Key Facts

  • The US began new strikes on Iran around 9:00 pm GMT on Sunday after about 140 strikes the previous night.
  • Iranian media reported missile hits on Qeshm Island and Farur Island, with one worker killed and two injured.
  • Kuwait said three border posts were damaged and one person injured due to a drone attack on an offshore drilling platform.
  • Iran attacked two ships in the Strait of Hormuz and said it had also hit targets in Oman.
  • Iran’s missile and drone strikes reached as far as Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, both of which had been mostly spared before.
  • The US said its strikes aim to stop Iran from attacking civilian and commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The recent attacks threaten a US-Iran interim agreement designed to reopen the strait and promote peace talks.
  • Iran claims the US actions have made diplomatic efforts ineffective and worsened security in the region.
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Guardian World
Massive Bangkok pub fire kills at least 27 people, Thai officials say

Massive Bangkok pub fire kills at least 27 people, Thai officials say

July 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

A fire broke out in a bar in Bangkok, Thailand, killing at least 27 people and injuring 63 others. The fire spread quickly, and smoke caused most of the deaths. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.

Key Facts

  • The fire happened late on Sunday night at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao bar in Bangkok.
  • At least 27 people died, and 63 were injured; 22 were in critical condition.
  • Smoke is believed to be the main cause of death.
  • Some victims were near a fire exit that may have been blocked.
  • The fire started near the stage, possibly from a circuit breaker, causing a power outage and an explosion.
  • Patrons fled the bar amid loud screaming and flames coming from the entrance.
  • Thailand has a history of deadly nightclub fires due to weak safety rules.
  • Officials, including the Prime Minister, visited the site and launched an investigation.
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France24
Lindsey Graham remembered for a vision of American foreign policy that's fading in Washington

Lindsey Graham remembered for a vision of American foreign policy that's fading in Washington

July 12, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Lindsey Graham, a longtime U.S. senator from South Carolina, passed away unexpectedly at 71 due to a ruptured aorta. He was known for supporting a strong U.S. military role worldwide, defending alliances like NATO, and backing Ukraine against Russia’s invasion, even as some U.S. leaders took a more isolationist stance.

Key Facts

  • Lindsey Graham served South Carolina in Congress for over 30 years.
  • He supported using U.S. military power to protect democracies globally.
  • Graham was a bridge between President Trump’s "America First" policy and traditional U.S. foreign alliances.
  • He consistently backed Ukraine throughout the Russian invasion starting in 2022, visiting Kyiv 10 times.
  • Graham helped advance U.S. sanctions against Russia.
  • He was a strong supporter of NATO and trans-Atlantic partnerships during a time when these relationships faced challenges.
  • His death was caused by a rupture in his aorta.
  • Leaders worldwide praised his commitment to U.S. engagement in global security and defense.
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PBS NewsHour