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The Jewish Council of Australia (JCA) says far-right extremism and mixing up Jewish identity with the state of Israel are main causes of antisemitism in Australia. In a report to a royal commission, the JCA calls for more attention to the threat from far-right groups and says Jewish people should not be seen as representatives of Israel.
Key Facts
The JCA submitted its views to a royal commission on antisemitism and social cohesion in Australia.
Far-right, neo-Nazi, and conspiracy groups contribute strongly to antisemitism.
The JCA says linking Jewish identity with Israel causes harm when Jewish people are blamed for Israel’s actions.
Other groups and leaders have different views, with some Australian Jews identifying strongly with Israel.
Australia’s special envoy to combat antisemitism said blaming Jewish people for Israel’s government is the fastest-growing form of antisemitism in the country.
The royal commission has received over 16,000 submissions on antisemitism.
The JCA supports human rights and Palestinian freedom and argues that harsh laws against hate speech may worsen antisemitism.
Future hearings will focus on antisemitism drivers and hate speech in media and social media.
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Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election in the UK. His victory may lead to more attention on Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership because Burnham is seen as a possible rival within the Labour party.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election.
The election was closely watched and considered important.
Burnham has declined to join Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s cabinet.
He is viewed as a potential challenger to Starmer within their party.
The result may increase pressure on Starmer’s leadership in the Labour party.
Andy Burnham is a prominent Labour party figure in the UK.
The Labour party is one of the main political parties in the United Kingdom.
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Three women discovered in their 20s that they share the same biological father, a Welsh sperm donor, after taking DNA tests. They grew up unaware of their donor conception because they were born before UK regulations on sperm donation began in 1991.
Key Facts
Natasha, Gemma, and Helen found out they are biological half-sisters through the same sperm donor.
They were conceived before the UK's fertility rules started in 1991, during a time called the "Wild West" of sperm donation when records were limited.
Until discovering the truth, they believed the men who raised them were their biological fathers.
DNA tests connected them not only to each other but also to additional sisters from the same donor.
They described meeting for the first time as an emotional and magical experience.
All three share similar personality traits and creative talents, such as art, music, and dance.
They regret not knowing each other earlier and missing out on shared experiences growing up.
The discovery helped them understand more about their identity and heritage, including cultural connections like supporting Welsh rugby.
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A seven-month-old Palestinian baby was killed by Israeli soldiers near Hebron, highlighting ongoing violence in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. Despite a ceasefire, Israeli military actions and restrictions continue to affect Palestinians, while Western media focuses more on the recent Iran deal and conflicts involving Iran.
Key Facts
A seven-month-old Palestinian baby was shot and killed near Hebron in the West Bank.
Israeli settlers and military continue to harass Palestinian villagers and restrict access to their land.
More than half of Gaza has been effectively annexed by Israel in recent months.
Since the October ceasefire, Israeli fire into Gaza has continued daily, with nearly 1,000 Palestinians killed.
Palestinians face starvation as access to aid and farmland is severely limited by Israeli control.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced plans to expand Israeli control over up to 70 percent of Gaza territory.
Palestinians are frequently shot or fired upon when trying to access farmland, sea, or return home.
The international focus on the Iran deal has reduced attention on the ongoing situation in Palestine.
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Planned talks between the United States and Iran to implement a peace agreement were cancelled at the last minute. The talks aimed to end regional conflicts, address Iran’s nuclear program, and ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, but disagreements and ongoing military actions in Lebanon complicated the process.
Key Facts
The US and Iran were scheduled to hold talks in Obbürgen, Switzerland, following a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed to create a 60-day window for negotiations.
JD Vance was leading the US negotiation team but did not travel as planned because of logistical and diplomatic difficulties.
Iran’s Supreme Leader approved the MOU with some doubts, while the US lifted its naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Iranian officials wanted to see proof that the US was following the agreement before further talks.
Iran delayed sending its negotiating team partly due to Israeli military actions in Lebanon, where Israel continues to fight Hezbollah.
The MOU includes ending the war in Lebanon and protecting the country’s sovereignty, but Israel does not support the agreement and continues military operations.
Iran’s chief negotiator warned that any violation of the agreement would be met with a strong response.
The situation remains uncertain amid ongoing conflict, impacting energy prices and global markets.
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Japanese football fans are praised for cleaning up stadiums after World Cup matches, but some people criticize Japanese men for doing little housework at home. Data shows Japanese men spend much less time on chores compared to women, especially in families with young children.
Key Facts
Japanese football fans often clean stadiums after matches and are known for this habit.
Some social media users point out that Japanese men clean in public but do less housework at home.
A popular social media post contrasts a man picking up trash at a stadium with him relaxing at home while his wife does chores.
OECD data from 2021 shows Japanese women spend over 3 hours daily on unpaid work, while men spend about 47 minutes.
In families with children under six, women spend over 7 hours a day on chores; men spend less than 2 hours.
Some people criticize Japanese fans for cleaning abroad but say Japan’s public spaces often have trash after big events.
The stadium cleanup habit has influenced fans from other countries, like Portugal, who have also started picking up trash after games.
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Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, securing a seat in Parliament and paving the way for a possible Labour leadership challenge. In Scotland, the Conservatives won Aberdeen South, and the SNP held Arbroath and Broughty Ferry in recent by-elections.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, a seat held by Labour for 120 years.
Burnham plans to represent Makerfield fully and not use the seat just as a step to leadership.
Burnham’s win allows him to launch a leadership challenge within the Labour Party.
Labour’s main challenger in Makerfield was Reform UK, finishing second but over 9,000 votes behind.
In Aberdeen South, the Scottish Conservatives gained a seat from the SNP after more than 50 years.
The SNP retained Arbroath and Broughty Ferry in another Scottish by-election.
The by-elections reflect ongoing shifts in UK and Scottish party politics.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure to step down after poor election results.
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Norwegian lawmakers stopped their meeting to perform the "Viking Row" celebration, which is linked to Norway's team at the FIFA World Cup 2026. This rowing chant has become a popular way for fans to show support for Norway in various places across the Americas.
Key Facts
Norwegian lawmakers paused a session to do the "Viking Row" celebration.
The celebration is connected to Norway's FIFA World Cup 2026 team.
The "Viking Row" is a rowing chant used by fans to support Norway.
Fans have performed this chant in many locations across North and South America.
The celebration has gone viral, meaning it has become very popular and widely shared.
The lawmakers’ gesture shows official support for the national team.
The World Cup event mentioned is scheduled for 2026.
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Cuba's lawmakers approved nearly 200 free-market reforms to reduce the government's control over the economy and attract investment amid a severe crisis worsened by a U.S. oil blockade. The changes allow private and foreign investment in state industries and mark the biggest economic shift since the 1959 revolution.
Key Facts
Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero introduced 176 economic reforms to reduce state control and encourage investments in areas like banking, tourism, and agriculture.
Foreign investors no longer must create joint ventures with the Cuban government, and big private businesses will be allowed.
The reforms were passed unanimously by Cuban lawmakers during a session where President Miguel Diaz-Canel reaffirmed commitment to socialism.
The U.S. oil blockade, imposed in January under President Trump, has pushed Cuba’s economy toward collapse with shortages and long power outages.
Diaz-Canel acknowledged internal problems like bureaucracy and delayed decisions that hurt production, in addition to external pressures.
The United Nations warned that shortages of medical supplies have led to child deaths in Cuba.
U.S. officials, including Vice President JD Vance, said Washington wants Cuba to become prosperous and are discussing political and economic changes with Cuban leaders.
Recent U.S. actions include indicting former Cuban President Raúl Castro and diplomatic talks aimed at expanding political dialogue.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked the European Union for urgent help with energy supplies if the war with Russia goes on through the winter. This request came after Ukraine used a large number of drones in an attack on Moscow.
Key Facts
President Zelenskyy spoke to the European Council about the ongoing war with Russia.
He said Ukraine will need energy assistance before winter arrives.
Ukraine recently launched one of its biggest drone attacks on Moscow.
The request targets pressure on Russia to end the conflict soon.
Energy help is critical for Ukraine as winter could worsen conditions.
The European Council is a key decision-making body in the EU.
The war between Ukraine and Russia is ongoing and affecting energy and security.
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Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, won a special election for a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, England. His victory sets him up as a leading challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party and the country.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election with nearly 55% of votes.
Burnham defeated Rob Kenyon from Reform UK, an anti-immigration party.
Burnham is currently the mayor of Greater Manchester and has held that role since 2017.
He is seen as a major contender to replace Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Starmer’s popularity fell since winning a large Labour victory in 2024.
Labour faces challenges from both the Green Party and Reform UK.
Burnham plans to bring his regional leadership style, called “Manchesterism,” to the national level.
Burnham called for a new politics based on unity and hope, contrasting with divisive politics seen elsewhere.
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Israel has launched new attacks in southern Lebanon, leading to casualties among Lebanese civilians and injuries to Israeli soldiers. Rockets and helicopters were seen in the skies during the clashes near the towns of Kfar Tebnit and Ali al-Taher.
Key Facts
Israel conducted military strikes in southern Lebanon.
Lebanese civilians were reported killed during the clashes.
Israeli soldiers were wounded in the fighting.
Rockets were launched and helicopters were involved in the area.
The clashes took place near Kfar Tebnit and Ali al-Taher.
The fighting involves the group Hezbollah, based in Lebanon.
The situation represents a sudden rise in conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
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Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester mayor, won the Makerfield parliamentary by-election, returning to the UK Parliament. His victory strengthens his position as a leading candidate to replace Prime Minister Keir Starmer amid growing speculation about Labour’s future leadership.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield seat in a by-election, defeating Rob Kenyon from Reform UK.
Burnham is currently the mayor of Greater Manchester and has served since 2017.
The win gives Burnham a platform to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour leadership.
Starmer’s popularity has fallen since Labour’s election win in July 2024, due to economic and public service challenges.
Several Labour lawmakers, including health secretary Wes Streeting, have resigned and called for Starmer’s resignation.
Josh Simons, former Labour MP for Makerfield, stepped down to allow Burnham to stand in the by-election.
Labour party rules allow a leadership challenge if 20% of MPs support it, which equals 81 lawmakers.
Burnham plans to expand his local "Manchesterism" political approach to the national level.
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Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, won an important by-election in northern England. His victory strengthens his position to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party and potentially become the next UK prime minister.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield seat with 24,927 votes, beating his nearest rival by over 9,000 votes.
Burnham’s win allows him to stand against Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership.
Labour has faced losses in recent local elections and calls for Starmer to resign have increased.
About 75,000 people were eligible to vote in the Makerfield by-election.
Burnham has been mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017 and was re-elected in 2021 and 2024.
He is popular in northern England and criticizes the UK political system for focusing too much on London.
Burnham finished second in the 2015 Labour leadership race.
If Burnham replaces Starmer, he would be the UK’s seventh prime minister since the Brexit vote in 2016.
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Andy Burnham won the Makerfield byelection with a large majority, gaining 54% of the vote. This victory strengthens his position to challenge Keir Starmer’s leadership of the Labour Party in the UK.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham beat Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon by 9,231 votes in the Makerfield byelection.
Labour received 54% of the vote, Reform UK got 35%, and Restore Britain 7%.
Voter turnout was 58.75%, higher than the previous general election.
Burnham plans to use this win to push for more political power for northern England.
The byelection was triggered when Labour MP Josh Simons stepped down to let Burnham run.
Burnham is expected to challenge Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership soon.
Starmer has said he will not resign and intends to fight any leadership challenge.
Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting may also seek the Labour leadership shortly.
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JD Vance defended the US-Iran deal and criticized Israeli officials who oppose it, reminding them that much of Israel’s defense weapons come from the US. Iran plans to charge fees for ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz after a 60-day negotiation period. Meanwhile, President Trump expects a complete ceasefire between Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah.
Key Facts
JD Vance defended the US-Iran agreement in response to criticism from Israeli government members.
Two-thirds of Israel’s defense weapons are made and paid for by the United States.
The US provides Israel with about $4 billion in military aid yearly.
Iran announced it will impose fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after negotiations end in 60 days.
Iranian officials said a European naval escort plan for the Strait of Hormuz is unwelcome.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu plans to maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon.
President Trump expects a total ceasefire involving Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah.
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EU leaders agreed to strengthen trade defenses against a large increase in Chinese exports, which they see as a threat to European industry. They also want to keep a positive and open dialogue with China while working to reduce the EU’s dependence on Chinese goods.
Key Facts
EU leaders discussed ways to protect European industries from a rise in Chinese exports.
The EU had a trade deficit of about 360 billion euros with China last year, meaning it bought more from China than it sold.
Leaders want the EU to develop new tools, like tariffs on specific sectors, to defend their trade interests.
Some EU countries, like France, support strong trade measures similar to those used by President Trump in the U.S.
Germany is cautious about harsh trade measures due to worries about retaliation but is open to new tools if needed.
Spain prefers balanced and friendly relations with China and seeks investment from Beijing.
EU officials want to maintain constructive talks with China while reducing risks from dependence.
Concerns about China’s control of rare earth minerals, important for electronics, are growing in Western countries.
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US Vice President JD Vance has postponed his trip to Switzerland for talks about the US-Iran agreement aimed at ending the war in the Middle East. Meanwhile, a US envoy said Iran will allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to inspect its nuclear sites as part of the effort to monitor Iran’s nuclear activities.
Key Facts
Vice President JD Vance delayed his planned visit to Switzerland for Iran talks originally set for Friday.
The White House said the negotiation logistics are complicated and the visit will happen as soon as possible.
US envoy Steve Witkoff told Congress that Iran will invite the IAEA to inspect nuclear sites and identify hidden nuclear material.
A side letter between Iran and the IAEA extends the invitation for inspections, allowing US nuclear inspectors access to Tehran.
Senators want to block Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel funds until the Pentagon releases reports on investigations, including one on an Iranian school strike.
President Trump and Iran’s president signed a deal to end the war in the Middle East.
Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, and the US lifted its naval blockade on Iranian ports.
Oil prices dropped more than 3% after the announcement of the deal and reopening of the strait.
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The remains of Tropical Storm Arthur caused heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding in parts of Louisiana and Mississippi. The storm resulted in flooded homes, water rescues, evacuations, and one death during cleanup efforts.
Key Facts
Tropical Storm Arthur was the first Atlantic storm of the season and quickly weakened but still caused major flooding.
Over 2 feet of rain fell in parts of rural Louisiana in 48 hours, with heavy rain especially on Thursday.
At least 200 homes flooded in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.
Floodwaters trapped people in a Mississippi campground, requiring rescuers to break into RVs to save them.
Mississippi officials evacuated 30 homes near a dam due to fears the rising water could damage the structure.
One worker died during storm cleanup in southwestern Mississippi.
Four tornadoes were confirmed, including one in Avoyelles Parish and three near New Orleans.
Local residents rescued animals and workers stranded by floodwaters, while cleanup continued.
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A British actress, Emaa Hussen, has been charged in Australia for trying to smuggle 320 kilograms of methamphetamine worth nearly A$300 million hidden inside bags of charcoal from Ghana. She appeared in a Sydney court and was refused bail; two other people in South Australia were also charged in connection with the case.
Key Facts
Emaa Hussen, 34, acted in an Eastenders spin-off and the movie Hummingbird.
Police say she tried to import 320 kg of meth, worth about A$296 million, hidden in charcoal bags.
The drugs came from Ghana and were shipped to Sydney’s Port Botany.
Customs found the drugs using X-rays and chemical tests before delivery.
Hussen was caught supervising the unloading of the charcoal bags in Sydney.
Police arrested two other people in Adelaide linked to renting storage units using fake IDs.
The seizure stopped about 3.2 million potential drug deals in Australia.
Hussen will return to court in August and faces life in prison if convicted.
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