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Air pollution may cause childhood obesity by disrupting impulse control, study finds

Air pollution may cause childhood obesity by disrupting impulse control, study finds

July 06, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A new study shows that exposure to tiny air pollution particles called PM2.5 during a child’s first year can make it harder for them to control impulses later. This difficulty with self-control is linked to higher body fat and obesity in children aged four to eight.

Key Facts

  • PM2.5 are very small particles in the air from sources like traffic and burning fossil fuels.
  • These particles are harmful to the brain and may cause health problems including obesity.
  • The study followed 434 children from Mexico City born around 2007-2008.
  • Babies exposed to more PM2.5 in their first year showed more impulsive behavior later.
  • This impulsivity is connected to greater body fat and higher body mass index (BMI).
  • The study suggests early pollution exposure disrupts self-control, affecting eating habits.
  • Air filters like HEPA and high-rated furnace filters can reduce indoor PM2.5 levels.
  • Experts say policy changes and public awareness are needed to reduce pollution exposure.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Parents shocked after children’s paper hedgehogs found to contain pages from explicit novel

Parents shocked after children’s paper hedgehogs found to contain pages from explicit novel

July 06, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A man made small paper hedgehogs from old books to raise money for charity and gave them to children in local shops. Some parents later found out that pages from an adult erotic novel were used in some hedgehogs, which caused concern and police involvement.

Key Facts

  • The hedgehogs were handmade from donated books and given to children in shops for charity.
  • Some hedgehogs contained pages from an erotic novel with sexually explicit content.
  • Parents noticed the explicit pages only after taking the hedgehogs home.
  • The man who made them said he usually checks the pages and did not mean to include inappropriate content.
  • Police confirmed no crimes were committed and said there was no bad intention.
  • At least one book identified was Nicholson Baker’s 1994 novel The Fermata.
  • Some families defended the man, saying the mistake was accidental and the gesture was kind.
  • The story attracted local interest, with some people wanting their own handmade hedgehogs.
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Guardian World
Buckingham Palace says Harry can no longer stay at royal residence on UK visit

Buckingham Palace says Harry can no longer stay at royal residence on UK visit

July 06, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Prince Harry planned to visit the UK for charity events, including the Invictus Games, but will no longer stay at Buckingham Palace as initially expected. The palace withdrew the offer for him to stay there, citing timing and concerns related to his ongoing legal case as reasons.

Key Facts

  • Prince Harry is visiting London and Birmingham for charity work, promoting the Invictus Games.
  • Harry’s spokesperson said his wife and children would not join him in London but might later in Birmingham.
  • Initially, Harry declined the offer to stay at Buckingham Palace but later accepted it for himself.
  • Buckingham Palace then withdrew the invitation, saying they needed more notice to prepare his stay properly.
  • The palace also mentioned the ongoing legal case against Associated Newspapers as a factor complicating the arrangement.
  • Harry’s spokesperson said the withdrawal was disappointing and unclear since the palace knew about the legal case before.
  • Security arrangements for Harry and his family were a separate issue before the accommodation offer was accepted.
  • A court ruling on Harry’s legal case is expected soon, which may affect related matters.
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Guardian World
Huge crowd joins funeral procession for Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei

Huge crowd joins funeral procession for Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei

July 06, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The funeral procession for Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is taking place in Tehran with large crowds attending. Khamenei was killed in an airstrike on February 28, and Iran’s leaders have vowed to seek justice and revenge. Funeral events will continue in several cities before his burial in Mashhad.

Key Facts

  • Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader for nearly 37 years, was killed in an airstrike on February 28.
  • His body laid in state for two days in Tehran before starting a 12-hour funeral procession with large crowds.
  • Funeral events will also be held in the cities of Qom, Najaf, and Karbala before burial in Mashhad.
  • Mourners showed anger towards US and Israeli leaders during the ceremonies.
  • Khamenei’s close family members, killed alongside him, were also honored.
  • Iran’s authorities emphasize national unity and resilience during a ceasefire with the US.
  • Iran’s military leaders promised to seek justice for Khamenei’s killing.
  • Khamenei had supported groups opposed to the US and Israel in the Middle East, such as Hamas and Hezbollah.
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Al Jazeera
Boy, 5, Has Cosmetic Surgery—Mom Says She’d Make the Same Choice Again

Boy, 5, Has Cosmetic Surgery—Mom Says She’d Make the Same Choice Again

July 06, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A mother in the U.K. allowed her 5-year-old son to have ear pinning surgery because he felt unhappy about how his ears looked. The surgery helped improve his confidence and comfort.

Key Facts

  • The boy, Perci-Bleú Harrison, had a pinnaplasty to correct prominent ears.
  • His ears stuck out due to the top cartilage not forming correctly.
  • Perci-Bleú felt emotional distress and lacked confidence about his ears.
  • The surgery was done when he was 5, although usually it is recommended for children 5 or older.
  • His mother, Seren Smalley, waited 18 months before agreeing to the surgery.
  • The procedure is common and considered safe when done by specialists.
  • They have been sharing the recovery journey on TikTok, gaining a lot of attention and support.
  • The mother says the decision was made to help her son feel comfortable and confident, despite some differing opinions.
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Newsweek
Russian Submarine Hunter Buzzes British Carrier Strike Group

Russian Submarine Hunter Buzzes British Carrier Strike Group

July 06, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Two British Royal Navy F-35 jets flew to intercept a Russian maritime patrol plane near the HMS Prince of Wales carrier strike group in the Norwegian Sea. The Russian plane, designed to detect submarines, flew low and dropped devices called sonobuoys near the British ships before leaving after being escorted away.

Key Facts

  • The incident occurred over the Norwegian Sea near a British carrier strike group.
  • The Russian plane involved was a "Bear-F," used to hunt submarines.
  • The aircraft flew at low altitude near the HMS Prince of Wales.
  • It dropped multiple sonobuoys, which are devices used to detect submarines in the water.
  • Two British F-35 fighter jets scrambled to intercept and escort the Russian plane out.
  • The UK Ministry of Defence described Russia’s behavior as unsafe and unprofessional.
  • The British jets remained with the Russian plane until it left the area.
  • The situation is ongoing and may have further updates.
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Newsweek
As a new heatwave looms, Europe falls for Chinese air conditioners

As a new heatwave looms, Europe falls for Chinese air conditioners

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

As Europe faces a new heatwave, many people in and around Paris rushed to buy affordable air conditioners made in China. This demand grew despite ongoing trade tensions between China and the European Union.

Key Facts

  • A heatwave is approaching Europe, increasing the need for air cooling.
  • People in Paris and nearby areas crowded supermarkets to buy air conditioners.
  • Chinese air conditioners are popular because they are cheaper than other brands.
  • Buying Chinese AC units happens even though the European Union and China have trade disagreements.
  • The rush led to scuffles and shouting matches in stores.
  • The article was reported by FRANCE 24 correspondent Yena Lee.
  • The situation reflects how weather events can affect buying choices and international trade.
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France24
Hamas dissolves Gaza governing body, clearing way for technocratic committee

Hamas dissolves Gaza governing body, clearing way for technocratic committee

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

Hamas announced it has dissolved its governing body in the Gaza Strip after nearly 20 years. This move allows a new Palestinian technocratic committee, set up by a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, to take over Gaza’s administration.

Key Facts

  • Hamas has ruled Gaza since 2007 after taking control from the Palestinian group Fatah.
  • The governing body Hamas dissolved managed Gaza’s civilian affairs for almost 20 years.
  • The new committee is called the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG).
  • NCAG was established by a peace board created through a deal brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump.
  • Hamas has said it will transfer governance but wants its armed group to remain until a Palestinian administration is formed.
  • Israeli forces control about 70 percent of Gaza and oppose the NCAG entering Gaza so far.
  • The ceasefire between Hamas and Israel began in October 2025.
  • Negotiations continue over Hamas’s disarmament and the terms for Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
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France24
Starmer faces likely row at Nato summit after US rebuke on defence spending

Starmer faces likely row at Nato summit after US rebuke on defence spending

July 06, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is attending a NATO summit amid pressure from the US to increase the UK’s defense spending to meet alliance targets. The US ambassador criticized some NATO members, including the UK, for not spending enough on defense, while UK officials plan to work on raising defense budgets in the coming years.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer will attend the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.
  • NATO members agreed last year to spend at least 3.5% of GDP on defense by 2035.
  • The UK plans to raise defense spending from 2.6% of GDP in 2027 to 2.7% by 2030, aiming for 3% in the next parliament.
  • The US ambassador to NATO said President Trump wants all members to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP as soon as possible.
  • The UK’s defense secretary, Dan Jarvis, supports increasing spending to show progress toward NATO goals.
  • There is uncertainty about the UK’s future defense plans if Andy Burnham becomes prime minister.
  • Recently, UK jets intercepted a Russian plane that flew near the HMS Prince of Wales in the Norwegian Sea.
  • The Russian aircraft dropped sonar devices near the UK aircraft carrier, which the UK described as unsafe behavior.
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Guardian World
Impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte begins

Impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte begins

July 06, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has started in Manila over allegations including corruption and plotting against President Ferdinand Marcos. The trial may decide if she can run for president in 2028 and is taking place amidst political conflicts between Duterte and Marcos supporters.

Key Facts

  • Vice President Sara Duterte is being impeached on charges of corruption, bribery, and an assassination plot.
  • She denies all allegations and is not appearing in person but is represented by lawyers.
  • The impeachment trial is held by the Philippine Senate, with a two-thirds vote needed to remove her and ban her from future office.
  • Duterte is considered a leading candidate for the 2028 Philippine presidential election.
  • The impeachment is the second complaint after an earlier one was dismissed by the Supreme Court.
  • Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos come from two powerful political families; they once allied but are now in conflict.
  • The trial is happening amid political turmoil, including the arrest of a Duterte ally senator and violence in the Senate building.
  • Several senators involved have ties to past controversial police actions related to the so-called "war on drugs."
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Al Jazeera
'Genuine admiration and emotion' in Tehran's streets as Iran mourns supreme leader

'Genuine admiration and emotion' in Tehran's streets as Iran mourns supreme leader

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

Millions of people gathered in Tehran on July 6, 2026, to attend the funeral procession for Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed recently. The event lasted about 10 hours and drew large crowds showing emotion and respect on the streets.

Key Facts

  • Ali Khamenei was Iran’s supreme leader and was recently killed.
  • His funeral procession took place in Tehran on July 6, 2026.
  • Authorities estimated millions of people attended the funeral.
  • The public tribute for Khamenei lasted around 10 hours.
  • Large crowds showed admiration and strong emotions during the procession.
  • The funeral had significant preparations to handle the expected turnout.
  • Khamenei’s sons attended the funeral, but Iran’s new leader did not.
  • The event reflects the importance of Khamenei’s leadership in Iran’s society.
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France24
Venezuelans mobilise to deal with earthquakes' consequences: FRANCE 24 reports

Venezuelans mobilise to deal with earthquakes' consequences: FRANCE 24 reports

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

More than ten days after two earthquakes hit Venezuela, the official death count is at least 3,342 people, but the true number might be higher. People from around the country are helping by treating the injured, finding places for survivors to stay, and searching for those missing.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela experienced twin earthquakes over ten days ago.
  • The official death toll is at least 3,342 people.
  • The hardest-hit area is the northern coastal region of Venezuela.
  • Survivors and volunteers from across the country are actively helping.
  • They provide medical care, shelter, and search for missing persons.
  • Rescue teams are working to manage the aftermath of the disaster.
  • Foreign rescue workers have also joined efforts to recover victims.
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France24
A timeline of Marine Le Pen’s political career and the rise of the French far right

A timeline of Marine Le Pen’s political career and the rise of the French far right

July 06, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A Paris court will decide if Marine Le Pen, leader of France’s far-right National Rally party, can run in the 2027 presidential election after she was found guilty of misusing European Parliament funds. If the court bars her, her protege Jordan Bardella, who is already the party president, would replace her as the candidate.

Key Facts

  • Marine Le Pen is the leader of France’s far-right National Rally party.
  • In March 2025, she and others in her party were found guilty of misusing European Parliament funds to hire aides who did party work instead of parliamentary tasks.
  • The court ruling on her eligibility to run in the 2027 presidential election is expected soon.
  • If banned, Jordan Bardella, 30, will become the National Rally’s presidential candidate.
  • Bardella is of Italian and Algerian descent and grew up in public housing.
  • Marine Le Pen took over leadership of the party from her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, in 2011, and changed its name from National Front to National Rally in 2018.
  • Le Pen has run for president twice, reaching the runoff in 2017 and losing to Emmanuel Macron.
  • Bardella was elected as a member of the European Parliament in 2019 and is a key party spokesperson.
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AP News
UK fighter jets intercept Russian plane over Norwegian Sea

UK fighter jets intercept Russian plane over Norwegian Sea

July 06, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

UK fighter jets intercepted a Russian patrol plane that flew too close to a British aircraft carrier in the Norwegian Sea. The Russian plane dropped devices used to detect submarines, and British jets escorted it away after it did not respond to calls.

Key Facts

  • Russian Bear-F plane flew low and close to the HMS Prince of Wales carrier in the Norwegian Sea.
  • The Russian plane dropped 10 sonobuoys, which are used to find submarines underwater.
  • British forces tried to contact the Russian plane, but it did not reply.
  • Two UK F-35 jets flew from the carrier to escort the Russian plane away.
  • The UK Carrier Strike Group is operating near Iceland under NATO command with 1,500 personnel aboard.
  • The operation is NATO’s first time doing air policing from a European aircraft carrier.
  • UK Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis said the situation shows rising threats from Russia in many areas, including air, sea, and cyberspace.
  • NATO has warned Russia may use military force by 2030, and the UK is increasing its defense budget by £15 billion.
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BBC Top Stories
Moldova speeds up its membership process to the EU

Moldova speeds up its membership process to the EU

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

Moldova is working quickly to join the European Union and recently started the first step in the EU membership talks. The European Union launched a €1.9 billion investment plan to support Moldova’s economy, focusing on reforms and key sectors like energy, education, and agriculture.

Key Facts

  • Moldova wants to speed up its process to join the European Union.
  • The EU opened the first chapter of negotiations for Moldova’s membership.
  • The EU created a €1.9 billion investment plan to help Moldova’s economy.
  • The investment plan requires Moldova to make changes in its government and economy.
  • A major investment conference was held in Moldova’s capital, Chisinau, on June 4, 2026.
  • The plan includes €641 million for projects in energy, digital infrastructure, education, and sustainable farming.
  • The goal is to attract businesses and improve Moldova’s economic standards to match Europe’s.
  • Moldova faces economic challenges and tensions from Russia’s ongoing hybrid war.
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France24
Macron's visit to Syria confirms normalisation strategy of post-Assad government

Macron's visit to Syria confirms normalisation strategy of post-Assad government

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron plans to visit Syria, marking the first visit by a Western European leader since Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa took office in 2024. The visit aims to strengthen ties between France and Syria and continues efforts toward normalizing relations after years of conflict.

Key Facts

  • Emmanuel Macron will visit Syria as the first Western European head of state to do so since 2024.
  • Ahmed al-Sharaa became Syria’s leader in 2024, following the Assad government.
  • Macron and al-Sharaa previously met in May 2025 at the Élysée Palace in France.
  • During the 2025 meeting, they discussed security issues and violence between religious groups in Syria.
  • Syria is seeking to improve and normalize its international relations through this visit.
  • The visit reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize the region after long conflict and isolation.
  • Both France and Syria aim to build stronger bilateral (two-way) ties through this dialogue.
  • The article mentions broader Middle East news but focuses mainly on the Syria-France relationship.
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France24
UK’s Farage’s gold deal tests his populist brand as Restore Britain rises

UK’s Farage’s gold deal tests his populist brand as Restore Britain rises

July 06, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Nigel Farage, leader of the UK’s Reform UK party, has earned over $2.5 million from outside jobs since becoming an MP in 2024. He is being investigated for not declaring a £5 million ($6.8 million) gift and has faced criticism for promoting expensive gold products despite his working-class supporters.

Key Facts

  • Nigel Farage leads the far-right, anti-immigration party Reform UK.
  • Since 2024, he earned more than $2.5 million from jobs outside Parliament.
  • In June, it was revealed he was paid £270,000 ($360,000) for promoting gold bullion.
  • Farage received a £5 million ($6.8 million) gift from major Reform UK donor Christopher Harborne.
  • Harborne donated over £30 million ($40 million) to Reform UK, including £12 million ($16.3 million) in 2025.
  • Farage did not declare the £5 million gift before his 2024 election, violating House of Commons rules.
  • The Conservative Party referred him to the parliamentary standards commissioner for investigation.
  • Experts say UK political finance rules allow big donations if declared, but Farage’s case tests the limits of transparency and regulation.
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Al Jazeera
Super Typhoon Bavi Pictures, Videos Show Storm Hammering US Territories

Super Typhoon Bavi Pictures, Videos Show Storm Hammering US Territories

July 06, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Super Typhoon Bavi, a very strong storm with winds up to 180 mph, hit U.S. Pacific territories Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. It caused dangerous flooding, huge waves, and severe damage to homes and infrastructure, especially on the island of Rota.

Key Facts

  • Super Typhoon Bavi reached Category 5 strength, the highest level on the hurricane scale.
  • The storm hit Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, including the small island of Rota.
  • Winds were around 180 mph, with gusts possibly over 200 mph.
  • Waves reached heights of up to 35 feet, causing coastal flooding and dangerous sea conditions.
  • Officials warned over 200,000 residents to stay indoors due to life-threatening weather.
  • Rainfall of 12 to 20 inches was expected, increasing risks of flash floods and mudslides.
  • Roads were expected to become impassable, and power outages were likely.
  • Emergency alerts remained active through at least Tuesday or Wednesday to warn residents.
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Newsweek
At least 14 killed in Kyiv after second massive Russian attack

At least 14 killed in Kyiv after second massive Russian attack

July 06, 2026 • France24

Summary

Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, was hit by Russian missile strikes for the second time in less than a week. At least 14 people died after missiles struck residential areas, despite Russia saying it targeted military and energy sites.

Key Facts

  • The missile attack happened early in the morning in Kyiv.
  • At least 14 people were killed in the attack.
  • This was the second large Russian missile strike on Kyiv in under a week.
  • Russia claims it targeted military and energy facilities.
  • The missiles hit residential neighborhoods where civilians live.
  • The attack is part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
  • Reports came from news agency France 24 and its correspondent in Odesa.
  • The strike follows a series of recent events and attacks related to the war.
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France24
Are you older or younger than the rest of the world?

Are you older or younger than the rest of the world?

July 06, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The article explains a tool created using United Nations data that shows where a person’s age fits compared to the whole world population. By entering a birthdate, the tool tells you what percent of people are older or younger than you globally and in specific countries, and it can also predict how this will change over time as populations age.

Key Facts

  • The tool is based on data from the United Nations Population Division.
  • It compares a person’s age to the world’s 8 billion people.
  • It shows what percent and number of people are older or younger than the user.
  • Users can see comparisons for individual countries.
  • The tool can predict future age rankings decades ahead.
  • For example, someone born on January 1, 2000, is older than 44% of the world today.
  • This same person is younger than about 75% of people in Japan, which has an older population.
  • The tool was released around World Population Day on July 11.
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Al Jazeera
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