News Summary - 07/22/2025

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Gang leaders and corrupt officials could be named in smuggling sanctions

The government plans to impose financial sanctions on gang leaders, corrupt officials, fake passport dealers, and companies selling small boats to curb smuggling activities.

Kemi Badenoch to reshuffle Tory shadow cabinet

Kemi Badenoch plans to reshuffle the Tory shadow cabinet, with Sir James Cleverly expected to return to a frontbench position.

Rents rise 21% over three years, analysis suggests

Rental prices have increased by 21% over the past three years, matching the pace of mortgage cost rises, according to recent data. This trend highlights significant affordability challenges for renters and homebuyers alike.

Why crucial cockpit audio is fuelling controversy over Air India crash

The Air India 171 crash report failed to provide closure, raising speculation and controversy over missing or unclear cockpit audio. This crucial evidence's absence leaves unanswered questions about the cause of the crash, fueling ongoing debate and mystery surrounding the tragedy.

Prince George photo released for his 12th birthday

Kensington Palace has released a new photograph of Prince George to celebrate his 12th birthday.

Sizewell C nuclear power plant costs rise to £38bn

Households in the UK will contribute £1 per month to fund the construction of the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, the country's second new nuclear facility. The project's costs have risen to £38 billion, reflecting the significant investment required for its development.

Higher UK borrowing adds to pressure on Reeves

UK government borrowing exceeded expectations last month due to a significant rise in debt interest payments, increasing financial pressure on the Treasury.

Blairs' discount designer clothes caused concern, No 10 files show

Officials were concerned that the discounts on the Blairs' designer clothes might need to be declared and advised they repay thousands of pounds to address the issue.

Bus driver arrested after 20 injured in bridge crash

A man in his 50s, suspected of careless driving causing serious injury, has been arrested following a bridge crash that injured 20 people, police reported.

Elvis experience costing up to £300 branded 'atrocious and misleading'

Some fans who paid up to £300 for an Elvis experience are seeking refunds, claiming they were misled to expect a hologram of Elvis, which was not provided. The event has been criticized as "atrocious and misleading" by disappointed ticket holders.

How Trump is using the courts to get what he wants - and changing the shape of presidential power

Trump's unprecedented and intense legal battles with the courts reflect a new approach to presidential power, leveraging judicial confrontations to advance his agenda and reshape the boundaries of executive authority.

England aim to solve defence 'wobbles' in Euros semi-final against Italy

England enter the Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy as favorites, focusing on addressing recent defensive issues. Both teams bring strong squads, setting up a highly anticipated clash as England look to solidify their backline to secure a spot in the final.

Two bodies in suitcases and the dark web - why did porn actor murder his victims?

Yostin Mosquera murdered Albert Alfonso and Paul Longworth, victims connected through dark web dealings. The case raises questions about their backgrounds and the motives behind the killings, linking elements of the adult film industry and illicit online activities.

BBC sees fragile ceasefire holding in Syria's battle-scarred Suweida province

Sectarian clashes erupted between Druze fighters and Bedouin militia in Syria's Suweida province roughly 10 days ago. A fragile ceasefire has since been observed, temporarily halting the violence in the conflict-weary region.

'My friend died right in front of me' - Student describes moment plane hit Bangladesh school

Farhan Hasan had just finished an exam when a Bangladeshi air force jet crashed into his school, resulting in at least 20 deaths. He witnessed the tragedy firsthand, including the loss of his friend.

Fashion of a queen - which of Elizabeth II's famous outfits feature in new exhibition?

A Buckingham Palace exhibition will showcase the late Queen Elizabeth II's life story through her iconic outfits, highlighting key moments and famous attire from her reign.

'It's a lifesaver': Making solar power affordable in South Africa

Mark Moodley's mother’s medical equipment now operates reliably thanks to affordable solar power, eliminating dependence on South Africa's unstable electricity supply and improving health outcomes.

China finds cover-up in lead poisoning of 200 children

Investigations reveal that education officials accepted bribes and health officials tampered with test results, covering up lead poisoning affecting 200 children in China.

NHS bosses putting patients at risk in strike, says BMA

The BMA criticizes NHS England for trying to maintain non-urgent services during a planned five-day strike, arguing this approach puts patient safety at risk. The union expresses dissatisfaction with the strategy, highlighting concerns over the impact of industrial action on healthcare delivery.

'Substantial changes' announced on infected blood compensation scheme

Significant reforms have been announced for the infected blood compensation scheme, following a highly critical report released two weeks ago that highlighted issues with payments to thousands of victims.

Body found in lake identified as missing mum

Rachel Booth, 38, who went missing on Saturday, was found deceased in a lake in Cheshire. Authorities have identified the body as hers.

OpenAI and UK sign deal to use AI in public services

OpenAI has partnered with the UK government to integrate AI technologies like ChatGPT into public services, aiming to enhance efficiency and drive prosperity across the nation.

Australia's toxic algae bloom is a natural disaster, says premier

South Australia's waters have turned toxic green due to a severe algae bloom, leading to widespread marine life suffocation. The premier has declared the event a natural disaster, highlighting its devastating impact on the environment.

Trump administration releases files on Martin Luther King Jr

The Trump administration unsealed approximately 230,000 pages of records related to Martin Luther King Jr., despite objections from some members of the King family. These documents provide extensive insight into government surveillance and investigations of the civil rights leader.

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Americanswers... on 5 Live! Is Trump a better friend to Britain than Biden?

The article discusses expectations surrounding Trump's upcoming visit to Scotland, exploring whether he is a more favorable ally to Britain compared to Biden. It considers political dynamics and how Trump's relationship with the UK might differ from that of Biden's administration.

The End Of Year Political Report Card

This article provides a summer review of the main political parties, assessing their performance, key actions, and public reception over the past months.

England aim to solve 'wobbles' in semi-final, and what to expect from Italy

England enter the Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy as favourites but are looking to address inconsistencies in their recent performances. The match promises a tactical battle, with England aiming to solidify their defense and Italy expected to challenge with their strategic play and experience. Both teams are poised for a competitive clash as they vie for a spot in the final.

Are Aston Martin dark horses to sign Verstappen?

BBC Sport F1 correspondent Andrew Benson addresses viewer questions ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, including the possibility of Aston Martin signing Max Verstappen. While Aston Martin is improving, securing Verstappen remains challenging due to his current Red Bull contract and team dynamics.

Ex-Wales and Liverpool defender Jones dies aged 70

Tributes have been paid following the death of Joey Jones, the former Wales international and defender for Liverpool and Wrexham, who has passed away at the age of 70.

What 6ft 4in £17m signing Stach will add to Leeds

Leeds United have signed German midfielder Anton Stach from Hoffenheim for £17 million. The 6ft 4in player is expected to strengthen Leeds’ midfield options with his physical presence and versatility.

Man rescued trying to reach Spain from Morocco in rubber ring and flippers

A man attempting to reach Spain from Morocco on a rubber ring and flippers was rescued off the Costa del Sol. A family sailing to the Balearic Islands spotted him 13 nautical miles south of Benalmádena and pulled him from the sea after noticing movement near an oil tanker.

Arrested Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi faces terror charges

Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was arrested and accused of facilitating terrorist acts during June protests against President William Ruto's government. The demonstrations, held on June 25, resulted in at least 19 deaths and were partly to honor victims of police violence from a similar protest the previous year.

Malaria ‘back with a vengeance’ in Zimbabwe as number of deaths from the disease triple

Zimbabwe faces a malaria surge with 115 outbreaks in 2025, up from one last year, after US aid cuts. Withdrawal of USAID funds ended crucial research and mosquito net supplies, threatening decades of progress and risking thousands of lives.

Trump administration to destroy nearly $10m of contraceptives for women overseas

The Trump administration plans to destroy $9.7 million worth of long-acting contraceptives, including IUDs and implants, intended for women overseas, mainly in Africa. This decision, part of ending foreign aid, will cost U.S. taxpayers $167,000. The destruction was scheduled by the end of July, though it's unclear if it has already occurred.

Sudan’s children face growing threat of deadly infectious diseases as vaccination rates halve

Sudan, enduring severe conflict and the world's largest humanitarian crisis, has seen vaccination rates for young children drop from over 90% in 2022 to just 48%. This steep decline, the lowest globally, leaves children increasingly vulnerable to infectious diseases, according to the World Health Organization, as global immunisation efforts also stall.

Brazil court freezes Bolsonaro son’s assets as ex-president threatened with arrest over social media use

Brazil’s Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes ordered the freezing of Eduardo Bolsonaro’s assets, criticizing former president Jair Bolsonaro for breaching social media restrictions. Eduardo condemned the decision as arbitrary while Bolsonaro’s lawyers were instructed to explain his actions regarding social media use.

Venezuela to investigate alleged torture of its citizens in El Salvador jail

Venezuela’s attorney general, Tarek Saab, announced an investigation into El Salvador’s president Nayib Bukele and two officials over alleged abuses of over 250 Venezuelan detainees returned from El Salvador’s Cecot prison under a US-agreed prisoner exchange.

Toronto film festival: Angelina Jolie, Saoirse Ronan and Keanu Reeves lead lineup

The 50th Toronto Film Festival will showcase world premieres featuring Angelina Jolie, Saoirse Ronan, Keanu Reeves, Anya Taylor-Joy, Sydney Sweeney, and Matthew McConaughey. The festival, timed after Venice, aims to highlight films vying for awards attention.

Ecuador extradites notorious drug kingpin ‘Fito’ to US

Ecuador has extradited Adolfo Macías, aka "Fito," a notorious drug trafficker, to the US. Macías escaped a high-security prison over a year ago but was recaptured in June. His extradition marks a significant move in efforts to combat drug trafficking.

Rubio moves to strip US visas from eight Brazilian judges in Bolsonaro battle

Marco Rubio has revoked US visas of eight Brazilian Supreme Court judges amid efforts by the Trump administration to support former president Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro faces trial for allegedly plotting a coup to remain in power after losing the 2022 election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He is expected to be convicted soon and could face up to 43 years in prison.

Arrests in China after more than 230 kindergarten children poisoned by lead paint in food

Authorities in Gansu province arrested six people and launched investigations into nearly 30 others after over 230 kindergarten children were poisoned by food tainted with industrial lead paint. The principal reportedly used lead paint to improve food appearance to attract enrollments. The incident exposed major safety failures, cover-ups, bribery, and altered test results in one of China's worst school food safety cases.

China starts building world’s biggest hydropower dam

China has begun constructing the world's largest hydropower dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet. Valued at 1.2 trillion yuan, the project is dubbed the "project of the century" by the premier. However, it has raised concerns among downstream countries, including India and Bangladesh, over potential impacts on their water resources.

Weather tracker: Mediterranean heatwave sparks concern for marine life

A severe Mediterranean heatwave has pushed sea temperatures near Spain and Portugal above 30°C, raising concerns for marine ecosystems. Scientists link the intensified and prolonged marine heatwaves to human-driven climate change. Meanwhile, South Korea faces deadly torrential rains and landslides, which have caused four fatalities.

Japan PM Shigeru Ishiba vows to stay on despite losing upper house majority

Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba pledged to remain in office after his coalition lost its upper house majority to a rightwing populist surge. The results increase pressure on his minority government, already weakened by losing the lower house in October and internal party unpopularity, just as it seeks to negotiate against potential US tariffs.

Death toll from South Korean rains rises to 17

Heavy rains in South Korea have caused at least 17 deaths and left 11 people missing. Record downpours, including nearly 170mm of rain in Gapyeong county, triggered landslides and flooding, damaging homes and vehicles east of Seoul. Rescue efforts continue amid ongoing severe weather.

Labor MP Ali France thanks late son in first speech to parliament after unseating Peter Dutton

Labor MP Ali France, who defeated former opposition leader Peter Dutton in Dickson, shared her emotional journey and gratitude in her maiden speech to the 48th parliament. Similarly, Melbourne MP Sarah Witty, who unseated former Greens leader Adam Bandt, highlighted the significant influence of family life on her political career.

New MPs deliver first speeches – as it happened

As parliament reconvenes, environmental concerns dominate, with Burke labeling an algal bloom an environmental disaster despite it not being a formal national disaster. Cooperation among officials like Environment Minister Murray Watt is emphasized. Additionally, strong condemnation arises over violent conflict, highlighting the urgent need for hostage releases amid severe humanitarian impacts.

In a tightly choreographed return to parliament, unexpected moments from Faruqi and Hanson ring out

During the 48th parliament's opening, Mehreen Faruqi held a sombre protest supporting Gaza amid Israel's bombing campaign, contrasting the formal ceremony. Meanwhile, Pauline Hanson unexpectedly voiced support for David Pocock, breaking the usual routine. These moments disrupted the otherwise traditional and solemn event as Australia condemned Israel's denial of humanitarian aid to Palestinians.

Senate to hold SA algal bloom inquiry as Greens warn ‘Adelaide beaches today could be Bondi tomorrow’

The federal Senate is set to launch an inquiry into South Australia's deadly algal bloom, focusing on water quality, ecosystem health, tourism, Indigenous communities, fishing, and government responses. The Greens warn this crisis signals future threats nationwide. The motion for the inquiry is supported by SA senators from Labor, Liberal, and Nationals parties.

Murray Watt urged to intervene after accusations proposed Queensland coalmine clearing land in greater glider habitat

Conservationists urge Environment Minister Murray Watt to act after satellite and drone footage show extensive clearing of bushland within threatened greater glider habitat near Magnetic South’s proposed Gemini coalmine in central Queensland. The Queensland Conservation Council released images highlighting potential environmental damage at the site, raising concerns about protection of vulnerable species.

Russia launches 42 drone strikes on Ukraine overnight, hours after agreeing to Istanbul peace talks - Europe live

Russia carried out 42 drone strikes in Ukraine overnight, injuring at least a dozen people. These attacks occurred shortly after both nations agreed to hold peace negotiations in Istanbul. However, the Kremlin tempered expectations, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that "miraculous breakthroughs" are unlikely given the current situation.

Large rise in abuse claims at mines that may be vital to EU’s energy transition, report says

Allegations of environmental and human rights abuses at mineral projects crucial to the EU’s energy transition surged threefold in 2024, with 270 claims across 13 countries in Europe and Central Asia. The increase includes issues from workplace deaths to soil pollution, highlights a report by the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre, up from 92 allegations in the previous year.

Ibiza venue cancels music events after deaths of two British men in two weeks

Ibiza Rocks Hotel has canceled several music events following the deaths of two British men within two weeks. Gary Kelly, a 19-year-old professional ice hockey player, died at the venue, as did fellow Scot Evan Thomson, who fell to his death on 7 July. Kelly’s club paid tribute to his talent and promising future.

Corrupt officials and people assisting small boat gangs to face sanctions and UK ban

The UK government will impose sanctions and bans on corrupt foreign officials, including police, who aid illegal migration. Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced new measures targeting those assisting illegal immigration, aiming to disrupt people smuggling networks and freeze assets linked to such activities.

Zelenskyy accuses Russia of ‘assault on humanity’ after latest drone barrage

Ukraine President Zelenskyy condemned Russia’s recent attack involving over 420 drones and 20 missiles targeting Kyiv, including a metro station sheltering civilians, killing at least two. Germany pledged to expedite delivery of five Patriot air-defense systems to support Kyiv amid ongoing assaults.

Gaza is ‘hell on earth’ with doctors fainting from hunger, UN says, as 1,000 people estimated to have been killed seeking food - Israel-Gaza war live

In Gaza, health workers, journalists, and humanitarians are fainting due to extreme hunger. Prof Nick Maynard, volunteering at Nasser hospital, reports severe malnutrition among patients, including a seven-month-old baby wasting away. The situation reflects deliberate starvation, and despite efforts, medical teams are powerless to save many lives amid worsening conditions.

Clearing Gaza rubble could yield 90,000 tonnes of planet-heating emissions

Gaza’s rubble from Israeli bombardment, totaling 39 million tonnes of concrete debris, could take up to 40 years to clear. Transporting and processing this waste may emit over 90,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases, involving 2.1 million dump truck trips spanning 29.5 million km, highlighting significant environmental impacts alongside the humanitarian crisis.

Lammy ‘sickened’ by Israel’s targeting of starving Palestinians and threatens fresh sanctions

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Israel's targeting of starving Palestinians in Gaza, describing it as "grotesque" and threatening further sanctions if the war persists. Israel launched air and ground attacks on Deir al-Balah, a humanitarian hub, resulting in the deadliest toll in nearly two years with at least 93 Palestinians killed while queuing for food. Lammy expressed regret over the UK's limited power to end the conflict.

Iranians asked to limit water use as temperatures hit 50C and reservoirs are depleted

Iran faces a severe water crisis amid record-breaking heatwaves with temperatures surpassing 50C. Authorities have urged the public to reduce water consumption, and a public holiday was declared in Tehran to manage the situation as reservoirs run dangerously low.

Trump ‘caught off guard’ by Israeli strikes on Syria last week

The White House stated Trump was surprised by Israeli strikes on Damascus and Sweida last week. Following the attacks, which aimed to pressure Syria’s government amid local clashes, Trump called Israeli PM Netanyahu to address and "rectify" the situation.

At least 20 killed as military plane crashes into Bangladesh school campus

A Bangladeshi fighter jet crashed into Dhaka's Milestone school during a training exercise, killing at least 20, including the pilot, and injuring nearly 200, many of them children. The Chinese-made F-7BGI hit multiple buildings, causing a massive explosion and fire in the country's worst aviation disaster in decades.

Pakistan authorities arrest 13 suspects over ‘honour’ killing video

Thirteen suspects were arrested in Balochistan after a video showing a couple being fatally shot for marrying against family wishes went viral. The incident sparked nationwide outrage, with activists demanding justice and calls to end honour killings targeting women who defy cultural norms or choose their own partners.

Children of elderly UK couple jailed by Taliban call for release before they ‘die in custody’

Barbie Reynolds, 76, and her husband Peter, 80, have been held by the Taliban in Afghanistan for over five months without charge. Their children are urging the Taliban and the UN to secure their immediate release before they "die in custody." The UN is expected to issue a statement calling for their freedom.

Bangladeshis linked to Hasina regime appear to have made UK property transactions in past year

Following Sheikh Hasina's ousting amid a student-led revolution, figures tied to her regime have reportedly engaged UK law firms for property transactions. Amid ongoing investigations and calls for asset freezes, Bangladesh's interim government faces challenges from internal political divisions and economic instability.

Why thousands of Afghans were secretly relocated to the UK – podcast

A data leak exposed personal details of Afghans who worked for British forces and sought asylum in the UK, risking hundreds of millions in damage and endangering lives. Affected individuals were warned to protect their online presence amid fears of Taliban retaliation due to their leaked asylum applications.

Kemi Badenoch to reshuffle shadow cabinet with James Cleverly set to return to Tory frontbench – UK politics live

Former home and foreign secretary, who previously ran for Tory leader, is set for a prominent role. Ed Argar has resigned as shadow health secretary due to a health scare. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch expressed sympathy and emphasized the importance of prioritizing health.

James Cleverly to return as Kemi Badenoch reshuffles Tory frontbench

James Cleverly, former home secretary and ex-Tory leadership contender, will return to a prominent role on the Conservative frontbench as Kemi Badenoch reshuffles her shadow cabinet. Cleverly has previously cautioned against adopting a Reform-style populist agenda.

UK does not need to hold inquiry into Russian disinformation, ECHR rules

The European Court of Human Rights rejected a case by three former MPs seeking to force the UK government to investigate Russian disinformation's impact on Brexit and other elections. The court ruled that nations have broad discretion in addressing electoral interference, dismissing the demand for a formal inquiry into Kremlin influence.

UK strikes deal with private investors to build £38bn Sizewell C nuclear power plant

The UK government has secured a £38bn deal with EDF, Centrica, and other investors to fund the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, marking the end of a 15-year funding struggle. The project, Britain's largest nuclear development in decades, will be financed through taxes and energy bills, despite costs nearly doubling since its initial proposal. Construction has now received the final green light.

Witness appeal after bus collides with aqueduct in Greater Manchester

A doubledecker bus had its roof ripped off after hitting a low aqueduct on Barton Lane, Eccles, injuring three seriously. The incident occurred around 3pm on Monday. The bus driver was arrested and later bailed. Greater Manchester police are seeking witnesses to the crash involving the number 100 Bee Network bus.

Harvard argues in court that Trump administration’s $2.6bn cuts are illegal

Harvard University challenged the Trump administration in court, claiming the $2.6bn funding cuts are illegal and politically motivated. The cuts have disrupted key research and appear aimed at coercing Harvard to change policies on student conduct, admissions, antisemitism, and diversity. US District Judge Allison Burroughs is hearing the case, which could reverse the administration’s funding freezes.

AstraZeneca to invest $50bn in US by 2030 amid Trump tariff threats

AstraZeneca will invest $50bn in the US by 2030, including a new drug manufacturing facility in Virginia and expanded R&D and cell therapy operations in several states. This move responds to potential tariffs under Donald Trump's administration and reflects increasing pharmaceutical investment in the US.

Senators question incoming CBS owner about ‘side deal’ with Trump and cancelling Colbert show – as it happened

Donald Trump has filed a libel lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal, Rupert Murdoch, Dow Jones, and News Corp. The case is assigned to Judge Darrin P Gayles in the Southern District of Florida.

Death of Malcolm-Jamal Warner shocks fans: ‘We saw ourselves in him’

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, which portrayed positive Black characters in the 1980s, has died from an accidental drowning in Costa Rica. His character resonated deeply with a generation of Black youth, sparking an outpouring of grief and tribute on social media.

Trump bans Wall Street Journal from Scotland trip press pool over Epstein report

President Trump barred the Wall Street Journal from his Scotland trip press pool after the paper published an article alleging he sent Jeffrey Epstein a birthday letter with a naked woman drawing. Trump sued the newspaper for $10bn. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt cited "fake and defamatory conduct" as the reason for the exclusion, affirming diverse media participation despite the ban.