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Flash flooding in Missouri leaves one person dead as 200 campers are rescued

Flash flooding in Missouri leaves one person dead as 200 campers are rescued

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Heavy rain caused flash flooding in Missouri, resulting in one death and the rescue of over 200 campers. Emergency crews used helicopters and boats to help people trapped by floodwaters, while authorities warned of more rain and urged caution in low-lying areas.

Key Facts

  • A woman named Faith Gregory died after her home was swept away by floodwaters in Crawford County, Missouri.
  • Over 200 children were rescued from a summer camp using Army National Guard helicopters.
  • Flash flooding warnings were issued for southern Missouri and surrounding states, including Tennessee and Kentucky.
  • Flooding closed roads and downed power lines in eastern Tennessee and other areas.
  • The Missouri governor declared a state of emergency and activated a search and rescue team.
  • The Black River was rising to record levels, threatening further flooding.
  • Rescue boats capsized during operations, but emergency personnel were saved.
  • Campers at another site climbed on a building to escape floodwaters, but the structure collapsed.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy announces cabinet reshuffle, replaces PM Svyrydenko

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy announces cabinet reshuffle, replaces PM Svyrydenko

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a reshuffle of the government, proposing to replace Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and some law enforcement chiefs. The changes aim to strengthen Ukraine’s foreign policy efforts and focus on key international partnerships.

Key Facts

  • President Zelenskyy wants to change Ukraine’s political strategy by assigning experienced people to important foreign policy roles.
  • He discussed the plan with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, who agreed that a government renewal is needed.
  • Yulia Svyrydenko became prime minister one year ago, after serving as first deputy prime minister and economy minister.
  • Svyrydenko helped negotiate an important minerals agreement with the United States during President Donald Trump’s administration.
  • Zelenskyy said the plan includes manufacturing Patriot air defense systems in Ukraine under license.
  • The government wants to advance Ukraine’s efforts to join the European Union.
  • Strengthening ties with Gulf countries is also a priority for security and economic reasons.
  • Svyrydenko will lead a new direction in relations with a key partner, according to Zelenskyy.
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Al Jazeera
The universal nostalgia for "Take Me Home, Country Roads"

The universal nostalgia for "Take Me Home, Country Roads"

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The song "Take Me Home, Country Roads," written over 50 years ago, talks about West Virginia even though the writers had never been there. It has become very popular worldwide and people often change its words to fit their own hometowns.

Key Facts

  • The song was co-written by Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert, and John Denver in Washington, D.C., 55 years ago.
  • Bill Danoff had never been to West Virginia before writing the song.
  • The song mentions West Virginia’s mountains and rivers, but some places named are barely inside the state.
  • West Virginians widely accept the song and sing it at sports events and weddings.
  • The song became famous during the Vietnam War as a song about coming home.
  • People worldwide adapt the song by changing place names to their own hometowns.
  • It is popular in many countries, including Jamaica, Hawaii, France, Brazil, and Japan.
  • The song features in popular culture, including TV shows like "The Office" and the Japanese anime film "Whisper of the Heart."
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CBS News
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" and the universal pull towards home

"Take Me Home, Country Roads" and the universal pull towards home

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The song "Take Me Home, Country Roads," co-written by someone who had never visited West Virginia, has become very popular in that state and worldwide. Many singers use it to express their feelings about a special place they feel connected to.

Key Facts

  • "Take Me Home, Country Roads" is a song about missing home.
  • The song was co-written by a person who had never been to West Virginia.
  • It became very popular in West Virginia and is seen as an anthem there.
  • Singers around the world have adopted the song to express their own feelings of belonging.
  • John Denver performed this as his first major hit song.
  • Country singer Brad Paisley talks about how the song personally moves him.
  • The CBS News segment explored the origin and global influence of the song.
  • The report was originally aired on December 26, 2021.
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CBS News
Almanac: July 12

Almanac: July 12

July 12, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The article is a brief note about the CBS News Almanac segment for July 12. The segment reviews important historical events that happened on this date.

Key Facts

  • The CBS News Almanac covers notable events by date.
  • The July 12 edition looks back at past historical events.
  • The content is available on CBS News and the CBS News App.
  • Viewers can watch it using browsers like Chrome and Safari.
  • The segment is part of the "Sunday Morning" show.
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CBS News
Green MP Hannah Spencer aims to pass law on maximum workplace temperatures

Green MP Hannah Spencer aims to pass law on maximum workplace temperatures

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Green MP Hannah Spencer plans to introduce a new law in the UK to set a maximum temperature for workplaces. The law would create a group to decide safe heat levels at work and how to manage them, responding to rising heatwaves linked to climate change.

Key Facts

  • The proposed law aims to set a maximum safe temperature for workplaces in the UK.
  • A new independent body would recommend the temperature limits and how to enforce them.
  • Currently, the UK has guidance for minimum workplace temperatures but none for maximum temperatures.
  • Unions want a maximum indoor temperature of 30°C, or 27°C for hard physical work.
  • Many workers, like bus drivers, bakers, and builders, experience dangerously high temperatures at work.
  • Some countries, like Spain, have rules that allow workers to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
  • The Health and Safety Executive says it cannot set maximum temperatures because heat can also come from workplace activities.
  • The UK government plans to consult the public this year about updating heat safety guidance.
  • This year, the UK had nine days above 34°C, breaking heat records linked to climate change.
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Guardian World
How Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani built Qatar’s soft power

How Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani built Qatar’s soft power

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, transformed the small country into an influential regional power through projects in education, health, media, and diplomacy. He established Al Jazeera, mediated conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, and strengthened Qatar’s international presence.

Key Facts

  • Sheikh Hamad became Emir of Qatar in 1995 and ruled until 2013.
  • He focused on building "soft power" like education, health, sports, and media instead of just economic wealth.
  • He created Al Jazeera, a major news network in the Arab world.
  • Qatar played a key role in mediating disputes in Lebanon, Sudan (Darfur), Palestine, Yemen, Somalia, Eritrea, and Djibouti.
  • Qatar hosted the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East, Al Udeid Air Base.
  • Sheikh Hamad supported rebuilding efforts in Gaza and visited the area after Israeli conflicts.
  • His diplomacy maintained contact with all sides of conflicts, including Israel, while supporting the Palestinian cause.
  • Under his leadership, Qatar also supported the "Arab Spring" movements for political freedom in the region.
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Al Jazeera
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani: key mediations

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani: key mediations

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani helped make Qatar an important country for solving conflicts. During his time as ruler, Qatar played a key role in several major peace efforts around the world.

Key Facts

  • Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was the leader of Qatar.
  • He helped Qatar become known for mediating conflicts.
  • Qatar acted as a neutral party in important peace talks.
  • These mediations helped solve disputes in different countries.
  • His leadership laid the groundwork for Qatar’s ongoing role in global diplomacy.
  • Qatar's mediation efforts began and grew significantly under his rule.
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Al Jazeera
France and UK to increase staffing at border controls in effort to stave off travel chaos

France and UK to increase staffing at border controls in effort to stave off travel chaos

July 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

France and the UK have agreed to add more staff at border controls to prevent long delays caused by new fingerprint and facial recognition checks. The UK government is providing funding to speed up vehicle processing and reduce wait times during the busy summer travel season.

Key Facts

  • New EU rules require travelers to have fingerprints and facial scans taken at borders.
  • The rules have caused long delays and traffic jams at Channel crossings like Dover.
  • The UK government announced £20 million to improve passport checks and reduce delays.
  • French officials promised to add more border staff to help with queues in the UK.
  • French border police may work on UK soil to staff passport booths at key locations.
  • The EU refused to pause the new entry-exit system despite airport and airline requests.
  • The new border system was created after 2015-2016 terrorist attacks and started rolling out last October.
  • Dover expects around 12,000 cars a day next weekend, over three times normal traffic.
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Guardian World
Iranian official warns US after strikes: ‘Keep your word or pay the price’

Iranian official warns US after strikes: ‘Keep your word or pay the price’

July 12, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

An Iranian official, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned the United States to follow through on a temporary peace agreement or face consequences after recent airstrikes. He said the time for one-sided deals has ended and urged the U.S. to keep its promises.

Key Facts

  • Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is the Speaker of the Iranian parliament.
  • He issued a warning to the U.S. on social media platform X.
  • The warning came after recent airstrikes connected to tensions between Iran and the U.S.
  • Ghalibaf emphasized that one-sided agreements are no longer acceptable.
  • He said the U.S. must keep its promises or face retaliation.
  • The message refers to an interim peace deal between Iran and the U.S.
  • This statement reflects ongoing strained relations between Iran and the U.S.
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The Hill
Antiques Roadshow expert Theo Burrell dies aged 39

Antiques Roadshow expert Theo Burrell dies aged 39

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Theo Burrell, a ceramics and glass expert on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, has died at the age of 39 after battling an aggressive brain cancer called glioblastoma for over four years. She was diagnosed in 2022, but lived beyond the expected time, using her experience to raise awareness and advocate for more brain cancer research.

Key Facts

  • Theo Burrell joined Antiques Roadshow in 2018 as a specialist in ceramics and glass.
  • She was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a fast-growing brain tumor, in June 2022.
  • Glioblastoma usually has a life expectancy of 12-18 months, but Burrell lived for over four years after diagnosis.
  • Burrell underwent surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy to extend her life.
  • She publicly shared her journey to raise awareness and campaigned for better brain cancer research funding.
  • Burrell married her husband Alex earlier in 2024 and experienced important life events like her son’s first day of school.
  • She became a patron of Brain Tumour Research, a charity working to find a cure for brain cancer.
  • Around 3,200 people are diagnosed with glioblastoma each year in the UK, with very few surviving beyond five years.
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BBC Top Stories
Murder arrest as woman stabbed in west London

Murder arrest as woman stabbed in west London

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A woman was fatally stabbed in Hayes, west London, and a man in his 20s was also found injured at the scene. A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken to hospital with injuries.

Key Facts

  • Police were called to a property on Uxbridge Road around 08:00 BST on Sunday.
  • A 24-year-old woman was found stabbed and later died at the scene.
  • A man in his 20s was also found injured outside the property.
  • A 44-year-old man matching the suspect’s description was arrested nearby.
  • The arrested man had injuries thought to be from jumping out of a window.
  • Police do not believe there is any further threat to the public.
  • The police are asking for information from anyone who saw or knows anything.
  • There will be an increased police presence in the area for the next few days.
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BBC Top Stories
Qatar mourns Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

Qatar mourns Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Qatar’s former leader, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has died at 74. He led Qatar for 18 years, growing its energy business, creating the Al Jazeera news network, and increasing its international influence. He gave power to his son in 2013.

Key Facts

  • Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was known as Qatar’s Father Emir.
  • He ruled Qatar for 18 years.
  • He expanded Qatar’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry.
  • He founded the Al Jazeera television network.
  • His leadership raised Qatar’s profile globally.
  • In 2013, he chose to step down voluntarily.
  • His son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, became the new Emir.
  • Sheikh Hamad died at the age of 74.
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Al Jazeera
Ukraine's Zelensky proposes new PM in Ukraine government reshuffle

Ukraine's Zelensky proposes new PM in Ukraine government reshuffle

July 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky announced he has proposed replacing Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko as part of a government reshuffle. This change aims to support a new political strategy and will also involve adjustments in law enforcement leadership.

Key Facts

  • President Zelensky proposed replacing Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.
  • Zelensky thanked Svyrydenko for her work and offered her a new role with a key partner.
  • The government reshuffle is intended to implement an updated political strategy.
  • Svyrydenko became Prime Minister in July 2025.
  • Possible successors include Denys Shmyhal (former Prime Minister and current Energy Minister), Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, and Serhiy Koretskyi, head of Naftogaz (state energy company).
  • Changes will also occur in the leadership of law enforcement agencies.
  • Ukrainian law requires parliamentary approval for the Prime Minister's resignation, which also means the entire government resigns.
  • Opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak suggested Svyrydenko might become ambassador to the United States.
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France24
British police make new arrest in Ann Widdecombe murder investigation

British police make new arrest in Ann Widdecombe murder investigation

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

British police arrested a 28-year-old man in northern England linked to the murder of former politician Ann Widdecombe, found dead at her home in southwest England. Police said the attack is not believed to be related to terrorism, and they do not see a public safety risk.

Key Facts

  • Ann Widdecombe, 78, a former UK lawmaker and TV contestant, was found dead at her rural home in Haytor on Thursday.
  • A new suspect, 28 years old, was arrested in South Yorkshire, about 200 miles from the crime scene.
  • A previously arrested 26-year-old man near the attack site was released and is no longer being investigated.
  • Police believe Widdecombe was attacked around 12:30 pm on Wednesday.
  • Counterterrorism officers helped with the recent arrest, but police say the case is not terrorism-related.
  • Widdecombe was a member of the Reform UK party and had been active in politics for decades.
  • Security for UK politicians has increased after past murders of two serving members of parliament.
  • Political leaders expressed shock and sympathy for Widdecombe’s family following her death.
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Al Jazeera
Typhoon Bavi weakens to tropical storm as it slams into eastern China

Typhoon Bavi weakens to tropical storm as it slams into eastern China

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Tropical Storm Bavi hit eastern China, causing heavy rain and strong winds after authorities evacuated nearly two million people. The storm damaged trees, flooded streets, and disrupted many flights and train services in the area.

Key Facts

  • Bavi was originally a typhoon but weakened to a tropical storm before hitting eastern China.
  • It made landfall near Yuhuan city in Zhejiang province just before midnight on Saturday.
  • Nearly two million people were evacuated due to the storm.
  • The storm is about the size of France and caused over 1,300 trees to fall in Yueqing city.
  • Floodwaters rose high enough to cover about half the height of a car tire.
  • Winds reached 101 kilometers per hour (63 miles per hour).
  • Major transport hubs in Hangzhou and Shanghai canceled hundreds of flights and thousands of train trips.
  • Bavi moved northwest into Anhui province and was expected to head toward the Yellow Sea by Tuesday.
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Al Jazeera
Two charged as body found in suitcase in woods

Two charged as body found in suitcase in woods

July 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Two men have been charged after a man's body was found inside a suitcase in a wooded area in Kent, England. Police first went to an apartment in Wandsworth, London, and later found the body in Borstal woods.

Key Facts

  • Joshua Miller, 32, was charged with murder and preventing an unlawful burial.
  • Jamie Cooper, 27, was charged with preventing an unlawful burial.
  • Police were called to Kingfisher Court in Wandsworth at 10:55 p.m. on Thursday.
  • No one was found at the apartment, but police suspected someone was harmed there.
  • The body was discovered the next day in woods in Borstal, Kent.
  • The victim and the two men charged were known to each other.
  • Both men are in custody and will appear in court on Monday.
  • Police have not formally identified the man but have informed his family.
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BBC Top Stories
The real mystery behind Moana: After 1,700 years, why did Polynesians suddenly sail east?

The real mystery behind Moana: After 1,700 years, why did Polynesians suddenly sail east?

July 12, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Polynesian ancestors paused their eastward ocean voyages for about 1,700 years after settling Samoa and Tonga. New research shows that severe droughts from about 850 to 1200 AD may have pushed them to start exploring and settling distant Pacific islands again.

Key Facts

  • Polynesians first reached Samoa and Tonga around 3,000 years ago and then stopped moving farther east for 1,700 years.
  • Between 900 and 1100 AD, they resumed large migrations, reaching Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island.
  • These voyages were made in large double-hulled sailing canoes.
  • Evidence of sweet potatoes in Pacific islands suggests contact with the Americas.
  • The "long pause" period coincided with a major dry spell in the southwest tropical Pacific.
  • Scientists studied hydrogen isotopes in ancient mud to measure past rainfall levels.
  • The drought during this time was the driest in the last 2,000 years and happened when island populations were growing.
  • Limited fresh water likely made island life harder, encouraging Polynesians to explore and settle new islands.
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Ars Technica
IRGC releases video of retaliatory missile strikes

IRGC releases video of retaliatory missile strikes

July 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps shared a video showing missile launches from their naval forces. These missile strikes were reportedly in response to recent attacks by the United States. Tensions between the US and Iran have been rising near the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway, causing it to close and leading to more attacks on both sides.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps released a video of missile launches by their navy.
  • The missile strikes were described as retaliation against US attacks.
  • The incidents occurred near the Strait of Hormuz, an important shipping route.
  • US-Iran relations have worsened recently due to these clashes.
  • The Strait of Hormuz has been closed because of rising tensions.
  • Both the US and Iran have exchanged military strikes in this area.
  • The situation increases risks for international shipping and regional stability.
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Al Jazeera
Experts warn of ways screwworm could spread in the US and new difficulties in keeping it at bay

Experts warn of ways screwworm could spread in the US and new difficulties in keeping it at bay

July 12, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

A parasitic fly called the new world screwworm is infecting wildlife and livestock in Central America and has recently appeared in the southern United States. Efforts to control the fly include releasing millions of sterile flies to reduce its population, but the fly has now become established in wild animals, making eradication harder and slower.

Key Facts

  • The new world screwworm fly causes wounds by laying eggs on animals, leading to infections.
  • Cameras in Central American forests found many wild animals, like jaguars and deer, infected with screwworm.
  • The fly has spread far into forest areas, becoming common in wildlife away from cattle.
  • In the US, screwworm has been found mostly in Texas and once in New Mexico, but only in livestock and pets so far.
  • The US and Mexico release sterile flies that cannot reproduce to reduce screwworm numbers.
  • Experts say 100 million sterile flies are released now, but about 500 million are needed to fully erase the fly from the region.
  • New methods are being developed, such as breeding only sterile males and better fly traps, but these need more time.
  • Illegal cattle movement across borders helps spread screwworm, and controlling this could reduce the fly’s spread more effectively.
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