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Why maternity leave for a mayor has divided Japan

Why maternity leave for a mayor has divided Japan

July 02, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Shoko Kawata, mayor of a town in western Japan, is set to become the country’s first mayor to take maternity leave, sparking a national debate. Japan currently has no legal rules for elected officials taking time off for childbirth, and reactions from the public have been mixed.

Key Facts

  • Shoko Kawata is the mayor of Yawata, a town in western Japan near Kyoto.
  • She plans to take maternity leave for two months before and two months after her baby’s expected birth in mid-September.
  • There is currently no legal system in Japan that allows local elected officials to officially take maternity leave.
  • Kawata will temporarily delegate her duties to her deputy while on leave.
  • Public opinion is divided; some support her decision as a positive step for women in politics, while others say it is irresponsible to step away from public duties.
  • Kawata argues that criticizing maternity leave for politicians excludes women of childbearing age from public office.
  • Only about 4% of Japan’s 1,720 municipal leaders are women, highlighting gender imbalance in Japanese politics.
  • The debate is part of a broader conversation about supporting women in leadership roles and creating better systems for work and family life in Japan.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
DR Congo Ebola outbreak tops 400 deaths as virus reaches major city

DR Congo Ebola outbreak tops 400 deaths as virus reaches major city

July 02, 2026 • France24

Summary

An Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has caused more than 400 deaths and is still spreading, including a case reported in the large city of Kisangani. The outbreak mainly affects northeastern provinces of the country and has also spread to neighboring Uganda and South Sudan.

Key Facts

  • Over 400 people have died from Ebola out of 1,406 confirmed cases in the DRC.
  • The outbreak started in the northeastern Ituri province, where most deaths occurred.
  • The virus has spread to North Kivu, South Kivu, and reached Kisangani, a city with 1.5 million people.
  • A 24-year-old pregnant woman in Kisangani tested positive after being secretly moved from Ituri.
  • The Ebola virus spreads through contact with bodily fluids and is deadly.
  • No vaccine or specific cure currently exists, but treatments and vaccines are being tested.
  • Neighbors Uganda and South Sudan have reported cases and deaths linked to the outbreak.
  • Local distrust towards health workers is making Ebola control efforts difficult in affected areas.
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France24
Europe's leaders close ranks as they face barbs and pressure from Trump

Europe's leaders close ranks as they face barbs and pressure from Trump

July 02, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized Italy's leader, Giorgia Meloni, calling her unreliable and seeking his attention. Instead of isolating her, European leaders united to support Meloni, which strengthened their ties amid shared challenges like the war in Ukraine and issues with Russia and China.

Key Facts

  • President Trump questioned Italy's reliability as a wartime ally.
  • He accused Giorgia Meloni of seeking his attention in a negative way.
  • European leaders rallied around Meloni after Trump's comments.
  • This support softened past tensions related to Meloni's hard-right politics.
  • European countries are working more closely on defense and trade issues.
  • Challenges they face include the war in Ukraine, tensions with Iran and Russia, and trade deficits with China.
  • Trump's preference to deal with European countries one by one is becoming less effective.
  • The situation is pushing Europe toward more unity in foreign policy and economic matters.
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PBS NewsHour
The year in review: Influential people who have died in 2026

The year in review: Influential people who have died in 2026

July 02, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Several influential people died in 2026, including music executive Clive Davis and former U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan. The article reviews notable figures from different fields who passed away throughout the year.

Key Facts

  • Clive Davis, a famous music producer, died in June 2026.
  • Alan Greenspan, former chair of the U.S. Federal Reserve, also died in June 2026.
  • Greenspan led the Fed during a long economic boom starting in 1991 but faced criticism after the 2007-2009 Great Recession.
  • Other notable deaths include Iranian-French cartoonist Marjane Satrapi and former MI6 chief Alex Younger.
  • The article lists influential people who died earlier in the year, such as Diane Crump, the first female professional jockey, and Aldrich Ames, a CIA traitor.
  • People from various fields like sports, film, music, and intelligence services are mentioned.
  • Some of the individuals had significant impacts in their areas and were well-known internationally.
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AP News
A diamond, a whale bone and lots of letters: What’s inside the America 250 time capsule

A diamond, a whale bone and lots of letters: What’s inside the America 250 time capsule

July 02, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A special time capsule celebrating America’s 250th anniversary was sealed in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026. The capsule, made from stainless steel and designed to keep out water, will be opened 250 years later in 2276 and contains letters, documents, and unique items from all 50 states, U.S. territories, and the federal government.

Key Facts

  • The America250 commission created a time capsule to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence.
  • The capsule weighs 900 pounds and is shaped like a cylinder to avoid cracking.
  • It is designed to be airtight and watertight, using soft metal seals and a secondary air-trapping cylinder.
  • The capsule will be buried 10 feet underground near Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
  • Items inside were preserved at a controlled humidity of 35% to keep them safe over time.
  • Contributions came from all 50 states, five U.S. territories, the District of Columbia, and three branches of the federal government.
  • Many of the contents are paper-based, including letters, postcards, poems, and historical brochures.
  • Some states included unique items or futuristic predictions, such as California’s AI-generated vision for the next 250 years.
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AP News
Ebola treatments trial begins in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Ebola treatments trial begins in the Democratic Republic of Congo

July 02, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A clinical trial has started in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to test new treatments for the current Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that the first patient has been enrolled in the trial, which aims to find safe and effective therapies to reduce deaths from the disease.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola outbreak began in May and affects the DRC and Uganda, with some cases reported in France.
  • More than 1,400 confirmed cases and 438 deaths have been reported in the DRC as of late June.
  • The trial tests two new treatments and is led by WHO in cooperation with research institutes in DRC, Belgium, and the UK.
  • Bundibugyo virus is a strain of Ebola with no approved vaccines or treatments currently.
  • Ebola is a virus that harms the immune system and organs, passed from animals like fruit bats to humans.
  • People usually spread the disease only after showing symptoms, which appear 2 to 21 days after infection.
  • Symptoms begin suddenly and resemble flu or malaria, including fever, headache, and tiredness.
  • The WHO declared the outbreak a public health emergency to highlight its seriousness.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Could water become a flashpoint between Islamabad and New Delhi?

Could water become a flashpoint between Islamabad and New Delhi?

July 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Indus Water Treaty, an agreement from 1960, decides how India and Pakistan share water from the Indus River. Recently, India stopped following the treaty after a violent incident, and Pakistan said this move is not allowed and warned of serious responses.

Key Facts

  • The Indus Water Treaty was made in 1960 to share river water between India and Pakistan.
  • The treaty has lasted through many years of conflict between the two countries.
  • India suspended its participation after accusing Pakistan-linked groups of an attack, which Pakistan denies.
  • Pakistan says India cannot stop following the treaty by itself.
  • Pakistan called its share of water from the Indus River a "red line," meaning it is very important.
  • Pakistan has warned of consequences if India does not follow the treaty.
  • Experts suggest the two countries need to find ways to avoid making the situation worse.
  • The situation shows how water resources can become a cause of conflict between neighboring countries.
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Al Jazeera
Madison Square Garden is abuzz with eager Swifties ahead of Swift-Kelce wedding

Madison Square Garden is abuzz with eager Swifties ahead of Swift-Kelce wedding

July 02, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are having their wedding at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The event has attracted many fans and increased security, taking place alongside other busy events like the World Cup and Fourth of July celebrations.

Key Facts

  • The wedding will be held at Madison Square Garden on a Friday night.
  • A smaller rehearsal dinner is planned for the Thursday night before the wedding.
  • About 100 guests will arrive around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday for a pre-party event.
  • Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have not publicly confirmed the specific wedding details.
  • Madison Square Garden is located next to New York Penn Station, a very busy transportation hub.
  • There has been a notable police presence around the venue due to security measures.
  • Fans and curious people have visited the area to see what is happening before the wedding.
  • Trucks have been unloading equipment, and barricades have been set up around the arena.
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AP News
Maine couple spots a bear chasing a moose calf and helps it escape

Maine couple spots a bear chasing a moose calf and helps it escape

July 02, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A couple from Maine saw a bear chasing a baby moose near their home. They used their truck to scare the bear away and helped the moose calf escape safely.

Key Facts

  • The event happened in Telos Township, Maine, on June 20, 2026.
  • Elvia and Todd Malcolm were on their way to fish when they noticed a female moose and her calf.
  • They saw a large black bear chasing the moose calf from the trees.
  • Todd Malcolm drove the truck between the bear and the calf to stop the chase.
  • The bear ran off into the woods without harming the calf.
  • The moose calf was reunited safely with its mother.
  • The couple took photos of the chase through their windshield but stayed inside the truck.
  • After the incident, the Malcolms continued fishing and caught brook trout.
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AP News
At least eight arrests linked to forums that encourage drugging and raping women

At least eight arrests linked to forums that encourage drugging and raping women

July 02, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

At least eight people have been arrested in the UK for being part of online groups that encourage men to drug and rape women. The National Crime Agency (NCA) identified 270 people linked to websites sharing videos of coordinated sexual abuse and is working with international police agencies to find more offenders and support victims.

Key Facts

  • The UK’s NCA found 270 people linked to forums sharing sexual abuse videos since October 2025.
  • At least eight people have been arrested in connection with these online groups.
  • These crimes often involve long-term partners and can last for many years.
  • The NCA is coordinating with law enforcement from countries including Brazil, Canada, France, Hungary, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States.
  • Fourteen investigations are ongoing, and eight victims have been identified and helped so far.
  • More than 150 offenders and victims were identified in recent international cooperation, revealing four new abusive online communities.
  • Authorities emphasize that victims may not realize what happened immediately and encourage seeking help even without clear memories.
  • The case of Gisèle Pelicot, whose husband drugged and allowed others to rape her repeatedly, is similar to the crimes being investigated.
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BBC Top Stories
WHO declares cruise-linked hantavirus outbreak officially over

WHO declares cruise-linked hantavirus outbreak officially over

July 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship over after the last exposed person completed quarantine and tested negative. The outbreak involved 13 cases and 3 deaths, caused by the rare Andes hantavirus strain usually found in Argentina and Chile.

Key Facts

  • The outbreak was linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, which sailed from Argentina on April 1.
  • The Andes hantavirus can spread between people through close contact, unlike other hantavirus types that mainly spread from rodents.
  • A total of 13 people were infected and 3 died from the virus during this outbreak.
  • Over 650 contacts in 33 countries were monitored by health authorities.
  • The final contact finished quarantine and tested negative, leading WHO to declare the outbreak over.
  • The ship docked in Rotterdam on May 18 and was cleaned before sailing again on May 30.
  • Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and can worsen to lung problems.
  • Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for hantavirus; care focuses on relieving symptoms.
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Al Jazeera
Iran warns oil tankers to use approved routes in Strait of Hormuz or face a 'forceful response'

Iran warns oil tankers to use approved routes in Strait of Hormuz or face a 'forceful response'

July 02, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Iran's military command warned that all oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz must follow Iran's approved routes or face a strong response. This warning increases tensions over a key waterway important for global energy supplies and comes after talks between U.S. and Iranian diplomats.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s joint military command issued a warning about tanker routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Oil tankers must use routes approved by Iran or face a "forceful response."
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage that connects the Persian Gulf to the open ocean.
  • This waterway is very important for shipping energy supplies worldwide.
  • Recent discussions between U.S. and Iranian diplomats took place in Qatar.
  • The U.S. Central Command had meetings with Middle Eastern leaders about keeping trade routes open.
  • The reason for Iran’s warning was not clearly explained.
  • Tensions in this area affect global politics and energy markets.
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PBS NewsHour
UK’s likely next leader Andy Burnham vows to fully fund defence plans

UK’s likely next leader Andy Burnham vows to fully fund defence plans

July 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Andy Burnham, expected to be the UK’s next prime minister, said he will fully fund a major defence plan that has a £4.7 billion gap. The current plan includes a £15 billion increase to defence over four years, but part of the funding source is not clear. Burnham also said he would avoid sharp cuts to benefits and might adjust business taxes.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is likely to become the UK’s next prime minister.
  • He promises to fully fund the planned £300 billion defence investment over several years.
  • There is a £4.7 billion ($6.2 billion) funding shortfall in the defence plan.
  • The UK wants to modernize its military amid concerns about Russia’s actions toward NATO countries.
  • Burnham does not support harsh cuts to welfare benefits that could increase poverty.
  • He plans to take a long-term approach by building more council homes and supporting education alternatives.
  • Burnham may change tax policy, including raising taxes on warehouses and big developments, while lowering taxes for pubs.
  • Labour leader Keir Starmer announced the defence budget increase; Burnham is expected to replace him later this month.
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Al Jazeera
Algerians vote in parliamentary elections

Algerians vote in parliamentary elections

July 02, 2026 • France24

Summary

Algerians took part in parliamentary elections that were marked by many candidates being excluded. Meanwhile, severe flooding in Ivory Coast caused many deaths, and in Cameroon, a coastal community faced environmental damage from large amounts of rubbish.

Key Facts

  • Algeria held parliamentary elections recently.
  • Hundreds of potential candidates were prevented from running in the elections.
  • Ivory Coast experienced severe flooding that led to dozens of deaths.
  • In Cameroon, a waterfront community faced environmental harm from tons of trash covering black volcanic sands.
  • These events were covered as part of broader news on Africa’s political and environmental issues.
  • The elections occurred amid ongoing regional challenges and social issues.
  • The article also mentions other global and African news, but focuses mainly on Algeria’s election.
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France24
These 3 maps show the disaster of the Venezuela earthquakes

These 3 maps show the disaster of the Venezuela earthquakes

July 02, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A series of earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing significant damage and challenges for the country. Maps show the areas most affected and highlight the scale of the disaster.

Key Facts

  • Multiple earthquakes hit Venezuela recently.
  • The earthquakes caused widespread damage in various regions.
  • Maps have been created to show which areas were hit hardest.
  • The disaster has affected homes, infrastructure, and local communities.
  • Authorities and emergency teams are responding to help those impacted.
  • The earthquakes add to ongoing difficulties in Venezuela.
  • The exact number of casualties or injuries has not been clearly reported yet.
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AP News
UK culture minister quits X over ‘abuse and misinformation’

UK culture minister quits X over ‘abuse and misinformation’

July 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The UK’s Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, has quit the social media platform X, saying it spreads abuse and false information instead of real discussion. The UK’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport will also stop using X, joining other government offices that have left the platform due to concerns about online safety and harmful content.

Key Facts

  • Lisa Nandy, the UK Culture Secretary, left X over its spread of abuse and misinformation.
  • The Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) also decided to stop using X.
  • The Attorney General’s Office quit X last month for similar reasons, citing racism and misogyny on the platform.
  • Critics say Elon Musk has reduced controls on X, making it a place for extremist and divisive content.
  • Many news outlets, celebrities, and organizations have left X due to its toxic online environment.
  • The UK media regulator Ofcom is investigating X’s AI chatbot, Grok, for sharing illegal images, including those involving minors.
  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has introduced a social media ban for children under 16 to protect youth online.
  • Musk has criticized UK online rules like the Online Safety Act, saying they might limit free speech.
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Al Jazeera
What to know about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding

What to know about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding

July 02, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement in August but have not shared many details about their wedding plans. Media reports and hints from the couple have sparked widespread interest and guesses about the upcoming event.

Key Facts

  • Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce got engaged in August.
  • Both have kept their wedding plans mostly private.
  • Fans and media are speculating about the details of the wedding.
  • Some people have compared the wedding to a royal wedding in America.
  • The couple has released only a few clues about the celebration.
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The Hill
I take responsibility to fund defence plan extremely seriously, says Burnham

I take responsibility to fund defence plan extremely seriously, says Burnham

July 02, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Andy Burnham said he would take funding the UK’s defence investment plan very seriously if he becomes prime minister. The plan adds £15 billion to defence spending but leaves a £4.7 billion funding gap that the next prime minister must address.

Key Facts

  • The defence investment plan was published with a £15 billion spending increase.
  • The plan has a £4.7 billion shortfall that needs to be filled by the next prime minister.
  • Andy Burnham has not seen all details before the plan’s release but pledges no compromise on national security.
  • Burnham rejects criticism of his approach to public finances and refers to his experience managing Greater Manchester’s budget.
  • Labour’s 2024 manifesto promises no tax increases for working people but allows some flexibility on business rates.
  • Burnham opposes sharp cuts to welfare benefits and supports improving education and mental health services.
  • He is the only candidate to replace Sir Keir Starmer and is expected to become prime minister on July 20.
  • Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the defence funding gap and questioned Burnham about it.
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BBC Top Stories BBC Business
Taylor Swift Wedding Buzz: NYPD Tracks Major Event at Madison Square Garden

Taylor Swift Wedding Buzz: NYPD Tracks Major Event at Madison Square Garden

July 02, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) is preparing for a large private event at Madison Square Garden during the July 4 weekend. The event is believed to be the wedding celebration of singer Taylor Swift and football player Travis Kelce, although neither person has confirmed this.

Key Facts

  • NYC officials and the NYPD are monitoring a major event at Madison Square Garden on July 4.
  • The event is rumored to be Taylor Swift’s wedding to Travis Kelce, with no official confirmation from them.
  • An internal NYPD memo mentions a two-day operation including a rehearsal dinner and a larger celebration.
  • About 100 guests are expected at the rehearsal dinner, and roughly 1,000 guests for the main event.
  • Security will include street closures, protective barriers, and about 135 NYPD officers assigned.
  • Police overtime for the event could cost tens of thousands of dollars due to the size and workload.
  • New York City approved permits for a special event involving tents and crowd management from June 29 to July 4.
  • The event adds to NYC’s busy schedule during Fourth of July, America’s 250th anniversary, and a strong summer tourism season.
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Newsweek
Fans mark the release of new Haruki Murakami novel at a midnight event in Tokyo

Fans mark the release of new Haruki Murakami novel at a midnight event in Tokyo

July 02, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Haruki Murakami released a new novel called "The Tale of KAHO" in Japan, featuring a female main character for the first time in his full-length novels. Fans gathered at a Tokyo bookstore to get their copies right after midnight, marking the book's launch.

Key Facts

  • The novel is titled "The Tale of KAHO."
  • It is Murakami’s first full-length novel with a woman as the main character.
  • Kaho, the protagonist, is a picture book author who experiences strange events.
  • The story began as a short story performed by Murakami at a university event two years ago.
  • The book has 352 pages and is made up of four chapters.
  • The novel was published by Shinchosha Publishing in Japan.
  • The story originally appeared as shorter versions in the Shincho magazine.
  • Fans took part in a countdown event at Kinokuniya bookstore in Tokyo to receive the book at midnight.
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AP News
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