World News

The man who changed the Arab world

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former leader of Qatar, has died at the age of 74. During his time in power, he made many changes that affected Qatar and the Arab world.

Key Facts

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was the Emir (ruler) of Qatar.
He passed away at the age of 74.
He played a significant role in shaping Qatar’s development.
His leadership influenced the Arab region.
Al Jazeera journalist Jamal Elshayyal reviewed his achievements.

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Al Jazeera

Ukraine’s prime minister steps down as country ‘is changing its political strategy’

July 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Ukraine’s Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko resigned as President Volodymyr Zelensky reorganizes his government during Russia’s invasion. Zelensky said the changes are needed to support a new political plan.

Key Facts

Yulia Svyrydenko stepped down as Ukraine’s Prime Minister on Sunday.
President Zelensky is making changes to his cabinet.
The changes come amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Zelensky and Svyrydenko agreed that personnel changes are necessary.
The purpose of these changes is to support an updated political strategy.
Zelensky announced the news in a detailed message on social platform X.
Ukraine is in eastern Europe and is currently facing a war with Russia.

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The Hill

Mom Has Normal Second Pregnancy, Then at 39 Weeks Everything Changed

July 12, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Rebecca Santos had a normal second pregnancy until a 39-week scan showed her baby’s heart rate was abnormal. Her son Jordi was born by emergency cesarean and diagnosed with a serious brain injury caused by lack of oxygen. Jordi now faces major health challenges but is showing some progress with treatment.

Key Facts

Rebecca Santos felt healthy throughout her second pregnancy.
At 39 weeks, a non-stress test showed her baby’s heart rate lacked normal variation.
Santos was induced and had an emergency cesarean early the next day.
Her son Jordi was born with neurological distress and did not cry.
Jordi was diagnosed with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), a brain injury from oxygen loss.
He also has cerebral palsy, microcephaly, and vision impairment.
Jordi depends on breathing support, feeding tubes, and regular respiratory care.
He is 11 months old, with delayed development but some progress after therapies and stem cell treatment.

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Newsweek

Russia goes to Japan for tech in Ukraine war: Report

July 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Russia has used Japan as a place to conduct technology development and spying activities related to its war with Ukraine. Some Russian spies moved to Japan after being expelled from Western countries when the conflict began.

Key Facts

Russia is involved in the war against Ukraine.
Russia has used Japan as a location for technology and spying efforts connected to the war.
Russian spies relocated to Japan after being forced to leave Western countries.
This information comes from a report by The New York Times.
Officials confirmed that the spies ended up in Japan following their removal from other countries.
The report was published on a Sunday.
The use of Japan by Russia indicates a shift in where Russian intelligence operates amid the conflict.

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The Hill

At least 27 killed in Bangkok beer pub after fire broke out, authorities say

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A fire broke out early Monday morning in a pub in northern Bangkok, killing at least 27 people. Firefighters controlled the blaze after about 30 minutes, and officials are investigating the cause.

Key Facts

The fire occurred at the Na Ladprao pub in northern Bangkok around midnight.
At least 27 people died, and several others were injured and taken to hospitals.
A musician said smoke appeared near a circuit breaker before the power went out and an explosion was heard.
Many victims were found in the restrooms at the back of the pub.
Firefighters controlled the fire after about 30 minutes.
The interior of the pub was severely damaged, with charred tables and chairs.
Thailand has experienced similar deadly pub fires in 2022 and 2009, with many casualties.
Officials are still investigating the exact cause of the fire.

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CBS News

Iran expands attacks on Gulf states after intense US strikes

July 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

Iran and Kuwait experienced attacks after intense military strikes by the United States in the Gulf region. Both Iran and the US claimed control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway, while fighting continued with casualties and damaged infrastructure reported.

Key Facts

Iran reported missile strikes on two southern islands, Qeshm and Farur, with one person killed and two wounded.
Kuwait said three border posts and an offshore oil platform were attacked, injuring one person.
The attacks followed US military strikes targeting about 140 sites in Iran.
Fighting escalated over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards declared the strait closed until US forces leave the region.
The US military stated the strait remains open and pledged to protect navigation.
President Donald Trump said the US hit Iran hard and claimed a potential deal was disrupted by an Iranian drone attack.
The conflict began after surprise US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February 2026.

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France24

Fire engulfs popular Bangkok pub, killing 27 people and injuring 63

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A fire at a popular pub in northern Bangkok caused the deaths of 27 people and injured 63 others. The fire started near the stage, spreading quickly and trapping many victims, especially near the restrooms.

Key Facts

The fire happened at the Na Ladprao pub in northern Bangkok.
27 people died and 63 were injured in the fire.
The fire was reported around midnight and took firefighters about 30 minutes to control.
A musician at the pub saw smoke from a circuit breaker before the power went out and an explosion occurred.
Many victims were found near the restrooms at the back of the pub.
First responders shared footage showing thick black smoke and a large blaze.
The interior of the pub was heavily damaged, with charred furniture and walls.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul gave updates from the scene of the fire.

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Al Jazeera

Syria's new parliament holds first session since ouster of ex-President Assad

July 12, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Syria’s new parliament met for the first time since the removal of former President Bashar Assad. The parliament, partly elected and partly appointed, aims to start making new laws as the country recovers from years of civil war and Assad’s rule.

Key Facts

Syria’s new parliament held its first session since former President Bashar Assad was ousted.
The parliament has 210 members: two-thirds elected by electoral colleges, one-third appointed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
The parliament’s term will last 30 months, during which it will prepare for future elections.
Abdul Hamid al-Awak was chosen as the speaker of the new parliament.
Al-Awak is from Hassakeh province and previously worked as a judge for 10 years.
He reportedly left the Assad government and moved to Turkey during the early uprising.
Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasized rebuilding the country and strengthening the state.
Syria is working to move forward after decades of conflict and authoritarian rule.

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PBS NewsHour

Retired General Floats Seizure of Iran's Kharg Island as Leverage

July 12, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A retired U.S. general suggested that the United States should consider taking control of Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil-export hub, to gain leverage in dealings with Tehran. This idea comes amid recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian military targets following Iran’s attack on a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route.

Key Facts

Retired General Frank McKenzie proposed seizing Kharg Island to pressure the Iranian government.
Kharg Island is Iran's most important oil-export terminal and strategically valuable.
The U.S. recently launched airstrikes on about 140 Iranian targets after Iran attacked a Cyprus-flagged commercial vessel.
Iran claimed to retaliate against U.S.-linked sites in several Middle Eastern countries.
The Strait of Hormuz is vital for global oil and gas trade, with about 20% passing through it before the conflict.
Iran warned it would close the Strait of Hormuz "until further notice."
The U.S. insists the Strait is an international waterway and aims to keep it open.
President Donald Trump previously mentioned a similar idea of taking Kharg Island if Iran attacked U.S. forces.

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Newsweek

US congressman says ‘IDF is lying’ about his detention by settlers and soldiers

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

US Congressman Ro Khanna said the Israeli military lied about his detention by settlers and soldiers during a visit to the West Bank. He shared video of the incident and called for an investigation into the actions of the settlers and Israeli troops involved.

Key Facts

Ro Khanna, a US congressman from California, was stopped and detained for about 20 minutes by armed Israeli settlers and soldiers near the village of Zanuta in the West Bank.
Khanna posted video showing settlers blocking his convoy and acting aggressively, including holding rifles and damaging the vehicle.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they quickly dispersed the settlers and reopened the road, but Khanna said the IDF sided with the settlers and further delayed them.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the settlers a small group of "juvenile delinquents" and said Israeli settlements are law-abiding.
Khanna said Netanyahu should investigate the settlers, including Yinon Levi, who Khanna claims killed a Palestinian and has not been prosecuted.
The West Bank settlements are illegal under international law.
Israeli officials accused Khanna of using the visit for political gain and ignoring efforts to coordinate with the Israeli government.
Khanna denied these accusations, saying condemning terrorism does not excuse mistreatment of American citizens.

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Guardian World Guardian US

More than 100 firefighters tackle railway embankment blaze in east London

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

More than 100 firefighters are working to put out a fire on a railway embankment in east London near Vallentin Road. The fire is causing a lot of smoke, affecting nearby homes and parts of the train line, and people nearby are asked to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the area.

Key Facts

About 125 firefighters and 25 fire engines were sent to the fire near Vallentin Road in Walthamstow.
Several properties close to the railway line are affected by the fire and smoke.
The blaze is producing a large amount of smoke, so residents are advised to close windows and doors.
Motorists have been told to avoid the affected area, including Wood Street.
The Weaver Overground train line has been partially closed due to the fire.
Firefighters received the first calls about the fire at 6:27 pm and sent teams from several nearby fire stations.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
Local MP Stella Creasy asked people to avoid the area and support evacuated families by donating food and water at a local welcome center.

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Guardian World

Qatar’s former emir remembered as ‘a man of vision and courage’

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

US diplomat Adam Ereli spoke about Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, praising him as a leader with strong vision and courage. Ereli met the former Emir while working at the US Embassy in Doha between 2000 and 2003.

Key Facts

Adam Ereli is a US diplomat.
He served as deputy chief of mission at the US Embassy in Doha from 2000 to 2003.
Ereli met Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani during that time.
Ereli described the former Emir as personable and charismatic.
Ereli said the former Emir showed tremendous vision and courage.

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Al Jazeera

How will Qatar’s Father Emir be remembered?

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, known as Qatar’s Father Emir, died at age 74. He ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and helped transform its economy and role in the Gulf region before passing power to his son.

Key Facts

Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013.
He voluntarily gave power to his son in 2013.
Under his leadership, Qatar’s economy grew very quickly.
He helped make Qatar more influential in the Gulf region and beyond.
His leadership brought big changes to Qatar over the past 30 years.
Experts discussed his legacy and what lessons can be learned from it.
Sheikh Hamad was known as the Father Emir in Qatar.
He was 74 years old when he passed away.

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Al Jazeera

UN Ambassador Waltz: Cuba’s regime ‘is a national security threat’

July 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

United Nations Ambassador Mike Waltz said that Cuba’s government is a threat to national security. He also accused China and Russia of gathering information near U.S. military bases in Cuba. These comments come as the Trump administration focuses on Cuba amid growing tensions.

Key Facts

Ambassador Mike Waltz called Cuba’s government a national security threat.
He made these comments during an interview on Fox News.
Waltz accused China and Russia of collecting intelligence near U.S. military bases in Cuba.
The U.S. has military bases close to Cuba.
The Trump administration is closely watching Cuba because of these security concerns.
The statement reflects rising tensions involving Cuba, China, Russia, and the U.S.
Waltz spoke about the issue on a Sunday interview.
The discussion involved U.S. foreign policy toward the Caribbean region.

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The Hill

Two men die after going into sea to rescue children at County Durham beach

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Two men died after trying to rescue two children who were in trouble in the water at Seaton Carew beach in County Durham. Both children were safe and taken to the hospital, but the men died despite emergency help. The police are investigating, and they warn people to be careful around open water, especially during hot weather.

Key Facts

The incident happened at about 3:45 pm on Sunday at Seaton Carew beach in Hartlepool.
Two children were in difficulty in the water; both were rescued and taken to the hospital.
Two men entered the water to help, were pulled out, and given medical treatment but died shortly after.
Police, RNLI, Coastguard, and ambulance services responded to the scene.
Police said the deaths are not suspicious and will prepare a report for the coroner.
Recent hot weather has led to several water-related deaths in the UK.
Cold water shock is a danger that can cause people to inhale water if they jump into cold water suddenly.
Scientists link Europe’s record heatwaves to the climate crisis caused by burning fossil fuels.

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Guardian World

Iran says almost a dozen ‘enemy projectiles’ targeted Qeshm Island

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Recent explosions occurred in Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island in Iran as the US conducted a fifth round of strikes since a ceasefire three weeks ago. Iran reported that its military sites in Hormozgan province were hit and said it retaliated against US military targets in the area.

Key Facts

Explosions were reported in Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island in Iran.
The US has carried out five waves of strikes since a ceasefire was signed three weeks ago.
Iranian state media said military sites in Hormozgan province were targeted.
Iran claimed it retaliated against US military assets in the region.
The events follow a ceasefire agreement between Iran and the US.
Qeshm Island is located in the strategic Persian Gulf area near key shipping routes.
Bandar Abbas is a port city close to Qeshm Island and a military hub for Iran.
Both sides appear to be involved in ongoing military actions despite the ceasefire.

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Al Jazeera

At least 27 killed in Bangkok bar fire, Thai media report

July 12, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A large fire broke out at a popular bar in Bangkok, killing at least 27 people and injuring several others. Firefighters controlled the blaze within 30 minutes, but some people are still missing, and the cause of the fire is being investigated.

Key Facts

The fire happened just after midnight in a bar located in Bangkok’s Chatuchak District.
At least 27 people died in the fire, according to Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Several injured people were taken to hospitals.
Firefighters arrived quickly and brought the fire under control in about 30 minutes.
The bar was a well-known entertainment spot and restaurant in the area.
Photos show the inside of the bar completely burnt and damaged after the fire.
Some people are still missing following the fire.
Officials are investigating what caused the fire.

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BBC World BBC Top Stories

Nine dead as Russia and Ukraine trade drone and missile salvos

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Russian drones and missiles killed four people in Ukraine, while Ukrainian attacks on Russia and Russian-held areas in Ukraine killed five people. Both sides continue to launch attacks amid ongoing conflict and international efforts to support Ukraine.

Key Facts

Russian attacks killed three people in Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region, including two at a factory in Kryvyi Rih.
A drone attack in Kherson, Ukraine, killed a 48-year-old man.
Russia has increased attacks recently, exploiting Ukraine’s shortage of missiles for its Patriot air defense system.
NATO countries promised more Patriot missiles to Ukraine at a recent summit.
President Donald Trump said he might allow Ukraine to make US Patriot missiles within Ukraine.
Around 25 world leaders will meet in Paris to discuss how to help Ukraine and pressure Russia.
Ukrainian strikes killed four people and injured four in the Russian-held town of Enerhodar.
A long-range Ukrainian drone attack killed a man in Russia’s Samara region.

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Al Jazeera

Iraqi PM to meet US President Trump in Washington to deepen strategic ties

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iraq’s Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi will visit the United States to meet President Donald Trump, marking his first international trip since taking office. The visit will focus on signing oil and gas deals and boosting economic and investment ties between Iraq and the US.

Key Facts

Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi will spend a week in the US, starting Monday.
The visit aims to strengthen Iraq-US economic relations, especially in oil and gas.
Several memorandums of understanding are expected to be signed to increase Iraq’s oil production.
Iraq hopes to attract US investment after losing revenue due to halted oil exports during the Iran war.
Iraqi forces recently arrested many officials in an anti-corruption crackdown ordered by al-Zaidi.
Iraq-US relations have been tense due to US troops' presence and Baghdad's ties with Iran.
President Trump congratulated al-Zaidi on becoming prime minister and expressed hope for closer cooperation.
The US has resumed handling Iraq’s oil revenue cash shipments through the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

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Al Jazeera

Two men die trying to save children in sea

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Two men died after trying to save two children who were in trouble in the sea at Seaton Carew beach in Hartlepool. The children were taken to hospital and are safe, while the men's deaths are not considered suspicious.

Key Facts

The incident happened at Seaton Carew beach in Hartlepool.
Cleveland Police were called around 15:45 BST about two children struggling in the water.
Two men entered the sea to help the children.
The RNLI (sea rescue service) pulled the men from the water, but both died shortly after.
The children were taken to hospital and confirmed safe.
Police are not treating the deaths as suspicious.
A coroner will review the case.
Families of the men are receiving support from specially trained officers.

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BBC Top Stories

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