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Brazil's Amazon sees sharp decline in size of area burned in 2025

Brazil's Amazon sees sharp decline in size of area burned in 2025

July 21, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

The area of land burned in Brazil's Amazon rainforest in 2025 was much smaller than in 2024, with 3.1 million hectares affected compared to 15.8 million hectares the previous year. This is the smallest burned area since records began in 1985 and reflects a drop in fires both in the Amazon and across Brazil overall.

Key Facts

  • In 2025, 3.1 million hectares of the Amazon burned, down from 15.8 million in 2024.
  • The total burned area in Brazil was 12.7 million hectares in 2025, compared to 30 million hectares in 2024.
  • The 2025 figures show the lowest number of fires in the Amazon in 41 years.
  • The decrease is partly due to cooler weather caused by La Niña, which reduces fire risk, unlike El Niño’s warmer effects.
  • The Amazon faces threats from human activity like farming and logging, as well as climate change.
  • President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva pledged to stop deforestation when he took office in 2023.
  • Previous president Jair Bolsonaro was criticized for policies that increased deforestation by 75%.
  • Despite improvements, experts warn that fire prevention efforts must continue, and new risks remain due to weather changes and ongoing human impact.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Antibiotics Keeping Sick Children Alive Are Losing Their Power, Study Finds

Antibiotics Keeping Sick Children Alive Are Losing Their Power, Study Finds

July 21, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A global study shows that bacteria causing serious infections in children are becoming more resistant to antibiotics, making treatments less effective. This resistance is growing especially fast in very young children, those in intensive care, and children in poorer countries.

Key Facts

  • The study analyzed over 106,000 bacterial samples from children in 82 countries between 2004 and 2022.
  • Antibiotic resistance means bacteria no longer respond well to drugs meant to kill them.
  • Resistance has increased steadily over the past 20 years, making infections harder to treat.
  • Babies, children in intensive care, and those in low-resource settings are most affected.
  • Resistance is growing not only to common antibiotics but also to last-resort drugs.
  • The World Health Organization groups antibiotics into "Access" (first choice), "Watch" (use carefully), and "Reserve" (last option).
  • Gram-negative bacteria, which cause serious infections like sepsis and pneumonia, drive much of the resistance increase.
  • Without action, resistance to key antibiotics is predicted to rise through 2035, potentially limiting treatment options for children.
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Newsweek
Can airport really go carbon neutral amid plans to expand flights?

Can airport really go carbon neutral amid plans to expand flights?

July 21, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Bristol Airport plans to expand its flights from 12 million to 15 million passengers a year while aiming to become carbon neutral by 2030. The airport is investing in greener technology like electric vehicles and fuel-efficient planes, but campaigners worry that more flights will increase overall carbon pollution, especially from airplanes.

Key Facts

  • Bristol Airport wants to increase flights by 15,000 per year, raising the total to 100,000 flights annually.
  • The airport aims to be carbon neutral by 2030, focusing on reducing emissions from its buildings and vehicles.
  • Most carbon pollution at the airport comes from airplanes, which are not included in the airport’s carbon neutral plan.
  • EasyJet operates many flights at Bristol and uses newer Airbus NEO planes that use 20% less fuel.
  • Climate campaigners argue that increasing flights will cancel out the benefits of more fuel-efficient planes.
  • Plans include adding a bigger terminal and new landing lights on nearby protected land.
  • The UK government supports regional airport expansion for economic growth.
  • A new energy center is being built to heat and cool the terminal using renewable electricity instead of gas.
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BBC Business
'We've got to be prepared to reprioritise': UK's PM holds first cabinet meeting

'We've got to be prepared to reprioritise': UK's PM holds first cabinet meeting

July 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham held his first cabinet meeting on July 21, 2026, and announced plans to focus on lowering the cost of living. He introduced a tax cut on energy bills and emphasized the need to manage government spending carefully.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is the new Prime Minister of the UK.
  • On July 21, 2026, he held his first meeting with government ministers (cabinet).
  • Burnham said his government will focus on reducing the cost of living for people.
  • He introduced a cut in the tax on energy bills (VAT cut).
  • Critics question if this tax cut can be paid for by cancelling a previous digital ID plan.
  • Burnham also called for "fiscal discipline," meaning careful control of government money.
  • The previous prime minister was Keir Starmer, whose digital ID scheme Burnham plans to scrap.
  • Burnham expressed a willingness to change priorities as needed to help the country.
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France24
Italy’s Meloni slams protesters following clashes in Bologna

Italy’s Meloni slams protesters following clashes in Bologna

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned violent protests in Bologna following the death of Abderrahim Fakir, a Moroccan man who died while being restrained by police. Authorities have opened an investigation into the incident, and protests have raised debates about police use of force in Italy.

Key Facts

  • Abderrahim Fakir, age 42, died after police restrained him for aggressive behavior and damaging a vehicle.
  • Protests in Bologna began Sunday night and continued on Monday, resulting in clashes with police.
  • Protesters threw firecrackers, bottles, and chairs; police used tear gas and water cannons in response.
  • 56 police officers were reported injured during the protests.
  • Prime Minister Meloni called for a fair investigation and criticized protesters for causing violence instead of seeking the truth.
  • Video footage shows Fakir face down, restrained, calling for help, and saying he could not breathe.
  • The case has sparked political reactions, with some politicians defending the police and others criticizing government policies.
  • The investigation has renewed discussions about police conduct and the use of force in Italy.
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Al Jazeera
UK PM Burnham: ‘We need to be a cost-of-living government’

UK PM Burnham: ‘We need to be a cost-of-living government’

July 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham told his cabinet that helping people with the cost of living should be the government's main focus. He plans to lower taxes on electricity bills while keeping careful control over government spending.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is the new UK Prime Minister.
  • His first cabinet meeting focused on addressing the cost of living.
  • Burnham wants to cut taxes on electricity bills to help households.
  • He also promises to keep strict control over government finances.
  • Helping with the cost of living is his top domestic priority.
  • Burnham’s approach balances financial support with fiscal responsibility.
  • This announcement came at the very start of his leadership.
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Al Jazeera
'It has to work': France nears approval of under-15 social media ban

'It has to work': France nears approval of under-15 social media ban

July 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

France is close to passing a law that will ban children under 15 years old from using social media. This decision aims to protect young people's mental health and follows Australia's example, which banned social media use for under-16s in 2025.

Key Facts

  • France’s parliament is expected to approve a law banning social media use for under-15s.
  • The law targets popular platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube.
  • The goal is to improve mental health among young people.
  • Australia introduced a similar ban for under-16s in December 2025.
  • France would be the first European Union country to enforce such a ban.
  • The ban requires social media companies to verify users' ages.
  • The law reflects growing global concern about kids spending too much time on social media.
  • Officials in France say the measure "has to work" to protect children's well-being.
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France24
Tropical Storm Bertha threatens Gulf Coast with flooding and storm surge

Tropical Storm Bertha threatens Gulf Coast with flooding and storm surge

July 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Tropical Storm Bertha formed on Monday and is heading toward the Gulf Coast, where it may bring heavy rain and rising water levels near the shore. At the same time, strong storms in the Midwest caused flooding in Des Moines, Iowa, and several tornadoes were seen in northern Wisconsin.

Key Facts

  • Tropical Storm Bertha developed on Monday.
  • The storm is moving toward the Gulf Coast region.
  • Authorities expect heavy rain and a possible storm surge (rising sea water) on the Gulf Coast.
  • Severe weather in the Midwest caused flooding in Des Moines, Iowa.
  • Multiple tornadoes were spotted in northern Wisconsin.
  • CBS News reporter Lana Zak covered the weather events.
  • The information was shared through CBS News and its app.
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CBS News
Heavy TV Watching Linked to Brain Changes Tied to Dementia

Heavy TV Watching Linked to Brain Changes Tied to Dementia

July 21, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A study of about 1,700 middle-aged adults found that people who watch a lot of TV may have changes in their brains linked to memory problems and dementia. The research showed that sitting time spent watching TV has different effects on the brain compared to sitting time spent working.

Key Facts

  • The study analyzed data from the ARIC Study, involving adults around 53 years old when first surveyed between 1987 and 1989.
  • Participants who watched TV very often had smaller brain regions related to memory and areas vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease.
  • These frequent TV watchers also had more white matter damage, which is linked to stroke, cognitive decline, and dementia.
  • Smaller frontal and occipital lobes were observed in heavy TV viewers; these brain parts help with planning and visual processing.
  • Differences remained even after accounting for physical activity, diabetes, body weight, smoking, and alcohol use.
  • Sitting for work, which often involves mental tasks, was associated with healthier brain structure compared to TV watching.
  • The study highlighted that not all sitting time affects brain health the same way; mental engagement during sitting matters.
  • Researchers suggested that watching TV is mostly passive and requires less mental effort than working or reading.
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Newsweek
Andy Burnham's (un)funded tax cut

Andy Burnham's (un)funded tax cut

July 21, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced plans to remove VAT (a kind of sales tax) from household electricity bills starting in October, which would save the average household about £45 a year. He said this tax cut would be funded by canceling a digital ID program introduced by Keir Starmer, though critics say this program did not have a clear budget.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is the Prime Minister and has begun his term with a tax cut plan.
  • The plan removes VAT on household electricity bills, lowering costs for families.
  • The tax cut will start in October and save households around £45 per year.
  • Funding for this will come from ending Keir Starmer’s digital ID scheme.
  • Some experts, like ex-minister Darren Jones, say the digital ID scheme was "unfunded," meaning it didn’t have a clear source of money.
  • The tax cut aims to help with the cost of living.
  • The announcement was discussed on the BBC podcast "Newscast."
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BBC Top Stories
Hungarian prosecutors raid Orbán party’s data center in embezzlement probe

Hungarian prosecutors raid Orbán party’s data center in embezzlement probe

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Hungarian prosecutors raided data centers used by the Fidesz party, led by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, to investigate possible misuse of government funds. The investigation centers on suspicions that about $53.5 million was improperly handled through a cultural fund while Orbán was in office.

Key Facts

  • Prosecutors and tax investigators raided offices with data servers linked to the Fidesz party.
  • The probe involves suspected embezzlement and misuse of grant money from Hungary’s National Cultural Fund.
  • Six current and former officials face charges related to the misuse of about 17 billion forints ($53.5 million).
  • The accused deny any wrongdoing.
  • Funds were reportedly given in unclear ways to artists supporting Fidesz and campaigning for the party.
  • The raid happened without prior notice and included attempts to seize Fidesz’s communication systems.
  • Fidesz governed Hungary for 16 years before losing the April national election.
  • The current government, led by Prime Minister Péter Magyar, is working to remove Orbán’s influence in institutions.
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AP News
Two very different men are at the heart of Ukraine’s political crisis

Two very different men are at the heart of Ukraine’s political crisis

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Ukraine is facing a political crisis involving two main figures: Mykhailo Fedorov, a young tech expert who became defense minister six months ago, and General Oleksandr Syrskyi, a traditional military leader. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Fedorov, causing protests, due to conflicts between their different approaches to defense during the ongoing war with Russia.

Key Facts

  • Mykhailo Fedorov is 35 years old and has a background in technology, not the military.
  • Fedorov modernized Ukraine’s drone program and changed military purchasing rules to reduce corruption.
  • He helped Ukraine become known for its drone warfare, gaining international attention.
  • Before being defense minister, Fedorov led Ukraine’s digital government reforms.
  • Fedorov blamed General Syrskyi for blocking needed military reforms and using traditional command styles.
  • Oleksandr Syrskyi is a Soviet-trained general who commands Ukraine’s armed forces.
  • President Zelenskyy fired Fedorov during a government reshuffle amid tensions between the two men.
  • The dismissal of Fedorov sparked protests across Ukraine by people supporting his innovative approach.
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AP News
Guyana says capsized ferry had 179 people aboard as survivor describes a chaotic sinking

Guyana says capsized ferry had 179 people aboard as survivor describes a chaotic sinking

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

A ferry in Guyana called the MV Barima sank on November 16, 2024, with about 179 people on board. So far, 69 people have been rescued, 27 bodies found, and many are still missing. Authorities are investigating the cause and suspect illegal overloading.

Key Facts

  • The MV Barima ferry capsized off the Essequibo coast in Guyana during a trip from Georgetown to Port Kaituma.
  • Around 179 people were on board, more than the official list of 133 passengers and crew.
  • At least 69 people were rescued, but 27 bodies, including four children, have been found.
  • The ferry was 87 years old and had been repaired earlier in 2024 but was due for major repairs in October.
  • Survivors reported the ferry sank very quickly, within minutes.
  • Officials suspect the ferry was overloaded with passengers and cargo not listed on the official manifest.
  • The captain and another crew member tested positive for marijuana and are in police custody as part of the investigation.
  • Neighboring countries have sent help, including rescue teams and divers, as efforts shift from rescue to recovery.
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AP News
2 firefighters killed battling a blaze near Bordeaux airport, flights delayed

2 firefighters killed battling a blaze near Bordeaux airport, flights delayed

July 21, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Two firefighters died while fighting a building fire in Mérignac, near Bordeaux airport in southwest France. The fire caused some flight delays at the airport.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened on Tuesday in Mérignac, a suburb of Bordeaux.
  • Two firefighters lost their lives while responding to a building fire.
  • Interior Minister Laurent Nunez informed lawmakers about the firefighters' deaths.
  • The airport said the nearby fire caused delays to some flights.
  • More information about the incident is still being awaited by officials.
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AP News
WATCH LIVE: Trump meets with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the Oval Office

WATCH LIVE: Trump meets with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the Oval Office

July 21, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun is visiting Washington to meet with President Donald Trump. They will discuss ways to bring lasting peace after fighting between Israel and the Hezbollah group in Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is meeting President Trump in the Oval Office.
  • This is Aoun’s first meeting with President Trump and his first visit to the White House since 2009.
  • Lebanon has experienced months of fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah, a group supported by Iran.
  • Lebanon and Israel are having rare direct talks, with the U.S. acting as a mediator.
  • Lebanon wants Israeli troops to leave large parts of southern Lebanon.
  • Lebanon seeks support to strengthen its military in areas controlled by Hezbollah.
  • The talks aim to create long-term peace and stability in the region.
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PBS NewsHour
State Department warns of ‘potential for unforeseen escalation’ in Middle East

State Department warns of ‘potential for unforeseen escalation’ in Middle East

July 21, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The U.S. State Department has warned travelers worldwide about rising tensions between the United States and Iran. They especially advise Americans in the Middle East to be cautious because U.S. government locations in the region and beyond may be targeted.

Key Facts

  • The State Department issued a global travel warning due to increased conflict between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Americans in the Middle East face higher risks during this period.
  • U.S. diplomatic buildings both in the Middle East and other regions have been targeted.
  • The warning was announced on a Monday.
  • The alert highlights the possibility of unexpected increases in violence or conflict.
  • Travelers are advised to remain alert and exercise caution in areas with U.S. diplomatic presence.
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The Hill
2 American tourists stabbed near Acropolis in Athens, Greece

2 American tourists stabbed near Acropolis in Athens, Greece

July 21, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Two American tourists were stabbed near the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. Greek police reported the incident involving the two visitors.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened close to the Acropolis, a famous historic site in Athens.
  • The victims are American tourists with Greek American background.
  • Greek police confirmed the stabbing.
  • Details about the attackers or motive were not provided.
  • The news was reported by CBS News.
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CBS News
Spanish hotel chain ceases operations in Cuba under pressure from Washington

Spanish hotel chain ceases operations in Cuba under pressure from Washington

July 21, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A Spanish hotel company, Meliá, will stop all its business in Cuba by the end of the week because new U.S. sanctions make operating there too difficult. The company said it wants to make this change smooth for its workers, suppliers, and customers.

Key Facts

  • Meliá is a large Spanish hotel group with 14,000 rooms in Cuba.
  • Meliá announced last month it would close 15 of its 34 hotels in Cuba.
  • The remaining 19 hotels are operated with the Cuban tourism ministry.
  • U.S. President Donald Trump ordered new sanctions in May that target Cuba and foreign companies working there.
  • These sanctions make it nearly impossible for companies like Meliá to run hotels in Cuba.
  • Meliá began working in Cuba after the country opened its tourism sector in the 1990s.
  • The U.S. has had an economic embargo on Cuba since 1962 and blocked all oil shipments to the island since January, except one Russian ship.
  • Other foreign companies have also cut ties with Cuba’s military-controlled businesses under U.S. pressure.
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Guardian World
Abandoned monkey found in laundry bag on London bus

Abandoned monkey found in laundry bag on London bus

July 21, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A small monkey was found abandoned in a laundry bag on a London bus. New laws now require primate owners in England to get licenses and microchip their animals to reduce neglect and abandonment.

Key Facts

  • A female common marmoset monkey was discovered on a London bus in a laundry bag.
  • The monkey, named Oyster, was stressed, dehydrated, but is now healthy and living in a sanctuary.
  • New rules from April require all primate pets in England to be licensed and microchipped.
  • Owners who don’t follow the law risk heavy fines or jail time.
  • Animal groups warn that some people may abandon primates instead of licensing them.
  • Around 5,000 primates are thought to be kept as pets in England.
  • The RSPCA and bus company are investigating who abandoned the monkey.
  • Experts say primates need special care that cannot be met by normal pet owners.
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Guardian World
Beirut hopes to gain Trump support to bring 'normality' back to south Lebanon

Beirut hopes to gain Trump support to bring 'normality' back to south Lebanon

July 21, 2026 • France24

Summary

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will meet President Donald Trump in Washington on July 21, 2026. Lebanon's military has entered parts of southern Lebanon to disarm the group Hezbollah under a deal with Israel, aiming to end Israel’s presence there.

Key Facts

  • Lebanon is trying to create "safe zones" in its south as part of a peace agreement with Israel.
  • Lebanon’s military has begun moving into areas to disarm Hezbollah, a group supported by Iran.
  • Israel requires Hezbollah to be disarmed before it will withdraw from southern Lebanon.
  • Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss these efforts.
  • The deal aims to bring stability and normal life back to southern Lebanon near the Israeli border.
  • Hezbollah is an armed group involved in Lebanon and supported by Iran.
  • This development is part of broader Middle East peace and security efforts.
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France24