The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Saturday that it is prepared to establish humanitarian corridors to facilitate the transport of aid into Gaza via UN convoys. The IDF also stated it would resume air drops of humanitarian aid, with an initial delivery of seven pallets containing flour, sugar, and canned food provided by international organizations. This decision follows mounting international pressure and reports of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza. Aid organizations have warned of mass starvation in the enclave.

The IDF claims to have "begun a series of actions aimed at improving the humanitarian response in the Gaza Strip" and is "prepared to implement humanitarian pauses in densely populated areas". However, the IDF denies accusations of deliberately starving the population, despite evidence to the contrary. The UN, various aid groups, and some of Israel's allies have blamed Israel for the humanitarian crisis and called for unrestricted aid access to Gaza.

Impact Statement: Israel's decision to allow aid into Gaza through limited channels may alleviate some of the immediate suffering, but the ongoing dispute and the restrictions placed on aid delivery remain a significant humanitarian concern.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a two-day visit to the Maldives, focusing on bolstering diplomatic and economic relations. The visit comes after Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's 2023 election on a platform critical of India and supportive of China, leading to increased tensions, including the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and perceived economic competition. However, Muizzu has since softened his stance, stating that India is the Maldives' "closest and most trusted partner."

Modi announced a $565 million credit line, reduced repayments on a previous loan, and discussed a potential free trade agreement. He also inaugurated several India-funded infrastructure projects, including a new defense ministry headquarters, roads, and housing. Modi emphasized India's commitment to supporting the aspirations of the Maldivian people.

The visit coincided with the 60th anniversary of Maldivian independence and addresses concerns about the country's economic struggles and foreign exchange shortage. The strengthened relationship is significant given the Maldives' strategic location in key Indian Ocean shipping lanes and its geopolitical importance. .

Impact Statement: The strengthened India-Maldives relationship counters China's growing influence in the region and offers economic relief to the Maldives.

A wildfire near Kryoneri, a town 20km northeast of Athens, Greece, prompted the evacuation of residents on Saturday. Fire Service spokesman Vassilis Vathrakoyannis reported that residents received three text alerts to evacuate to safe areas. He stated that there have been reports of damage, with details to be assessed after the fire is contained. Currently, 145 firefighters, 44 fire engines, 10 firefighting planes, and seven helicopters are battling the blaze, along with four ambulances treating at least five residents, mostly elderly individuals with respiratory problems. The fire's origin remains unknown.

High temperatures (reaching or exceeding 38 degrees Celsius), dry conditions, and high winds are exacerbating the fire's spread. Vathrakoyannis warned that under these conditions, which are forecast to persist, wildfires expand rapidly and become highly dangerous. Greece has requested six firefighting planes from the European Union. The Fire Service is also managing three other major wildfires on Crete, Evia, and Kythera. A total of 52 wildfires erupted across Greece in the past 24 hours.

Impact Statement: The wildfires, fueled by high temperatures and dry conditions, pose a significant threat to life and property in Greece and highlight the increasing impact of climate change on the country.

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Cambodian leader Hun Manet and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had agreed to an immediate ceasefire following days of deadly clashes between the two countries. At least 33 people have been killed and over 130,000 displaced in the worst fighting between the neighbors in 13 years. Trump stated he had spoken with both leaders and that a ceasefire, peace, and prosperity seemed likely, though he offered no details on the discussions. He also warned that he would halt trade deals with either country if fighting continued. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa confirmed Thailand's agreement in principle to an ASEAN ceasefire proposal, but insisted Cambodia must first cease hostilities. Cambodia's UN ambassador, Chhea Keo, stated his country had unconditionally requested an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution. The conflict, which began Thursday, centers on decades-long disputes over their shared border and the ownership of the Preah Vihear temple.

Impact Statement: The announced ceasefire could significantly reduce casualties and displacement in the region, pending confirmation from both governments. Trump's linkage of the ceasefire to future trade deals adds a layer of economic pressure to secure peace.

England will face Spain in the Euro 2025 final on Sunday, a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final won by Spain. This is England's third consecutive major final appearance, following their Euro 2022 victory. For Spain, it marks their first-ever appearance in a European Championship final. England captain Leah Williamson acknowledged the national significance of the match and expressed the team's determination to win. The match will be played in Basel, Switzerland.

Spain, the reigning World Cup champions, have won their last 10 matches, scoring 38 goals. They enter the final as the highest-ranked team in the competition. England, ranked fifth, overcame challenges in earlier rounds, including a penalty shootout victory and a last-minute extra-time goal. Despite Spain's favored status, Williamson rejected the idea of England being the underdog. Spain's captain, Irene Paredes, stated that they approach the match as an opportunity rather than a pressure situation.

Impact Statement: The match will determine the Euro 2025 champion and has significant implications for both national teams' legacies and global women's football.

Former US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he had spoken with the Prime Minister of Cambodia and the Acting Prime Minister of Thailand to help end their border conflict. The fighting, now in its third day, has resulted in 32 deaths and over 130 injuries. Clashes are concentrated in coastal regions along the Gulf of Thailand, stemming from decades-old tensions over contested temple sites and escalating after a landmine incident wounded five Thai soldiers on Thursday. Trump stated that both countries desire an immediate ceasefire and peace, and he indicated he would withhold trade deals until the fighting ceases.

Trump's announcement came during his golfing trip to Scotland, where he owns and promotes two golf courses. His visit has been met with widespread protests across the UK, with demonstrators expressing their opposition to his presence and policies. Protests occurred in cities including Edinburgh and Aberdeen, uniting diverse groups including environmental activists and opponents of the Trump administration’s stance on issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the war in Ukraine.

Impact Statement: Trump's intervention could significantly impact the ongoing conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, potentially leading to a ceasefire and de-escalation of tensions. However, the long-term effects remain uncertain, and the protests highlight significant public opposition to Trump's actions and influence.

Israel has proposed airdropping aid into Gaza following strong criticism from Britain, France, and Germany (July 25) concerning the ongoing starvation crisis. These allies urged Israel to lift restrictions on aid and allow UN and NGO access, citing violations of international humanitarian law. Israel maintains that no restrictions are placed on aid trucks entering Gaza, a claim disputed by allies and aid agencies. The article notes that airdropping aid, while potentially visually impactful, is a less efficient and riskier method than ground transportation, citing examples from past conflicts in Iraqi Kurdistan (post-1991 Gulf War) and Bosnia (1993) where airdrops resulted in accidents and unintended consequences.

The proposal to airdrop aid is described as an act of desperation, offering limited effectiveness compared to ground transport methods. The densely populated and confined living conditions in Gaza raise significant concerns about the safety and efficacy of this approach, given the potential for accidental harm and the likelihood of aid being misappropriated. The method is considered by aid professionals as a last resort, only employed when other access routes are impossible.

Impact Statement: The proposed airdrop highlights the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the limitations of this approach in addressing the widespread starvation. The conflicting narratives surrounding aid access further complicate the situation.

Heavy rainfall in Pakistan's northwest, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has prompted warnings of glacial lake outburst floods. Anwar Shahzad, a spokesperson for the local disaster management authority, announced weather advisories and alerts on Saturday, noting higher downpours than the same period last year. A previous alert earlier this month warned of accelerated snow and glacier melt due to persistent high temperatures. Faizullah Firaq reported "severe destruction" in some areas, affecting houses, infrastructure, crops, and businesses. Rescue operations are underway after flooding hit nine villages along the Babusar Highway and a cloudburst near Fairy Meadows stranded tourists, with over 500 evacuated from Naran following a Friday night cloudburst. In neighboring Gilgit-Baltistan, three deaths and widespread damage have been reported, with hundreds of tents, food packets, and medicine distributed to affected communities. While warnings help, Zakir Hussein of Gilgit-Baltistan’s Disaster Management Authority noted that some tourists still disregard them. The monsoon season's above-average rainfall has raised concerns of a repeat of the devastating 2022 floods, which killed 1,737 people and displaced over 30 million. So far this season, 260 deaths have been reported.

Impact Statement: The ongoing heavy rainfall and glacial flooding risk exacerbates Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change and threatens to cause significant further damage and displacement.

Syrian and Israeli officials held talks in Paris on Saturday, mediated by the United States, following recent violence in the Suwayda province of Syria. The meeting, according to a Syrian official speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic, focused on security developments around Suwayda, where fighting between Bedouins and Druze fighters has resulted in hundreds of deaths. Israel's military intervention, involving strikes on government buildings in Damascus and Suwayda, was a key discussion point.

The Syrian delegation emphasized the country's unity and sovereignty, rejecting attempts to exploit societal divisions for partition. They held Israel responsible for the escalation and demanded the withdrawal of Israeli forces. While no final agreements were reached, according to Syria's state-run Ekhbariya TV, the parties agreed to continue talks aimed at maintaining stability. The talks follow previous discussions between officials from both countries on Thursday, as confirmed by US envoy Tom Barrack.

The meeting was described as “honest and responsible” by a diplomatic source speaking to Ekhbariya TV. The recent unrest has highlighted the challenges facing interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in stabilizing Syria and maintaining centralized rule.

Impact Statement: The talks represent a significant step in de-escalating tensions between Syria and Israel amidst ongoing internal conflict in Suwayda. The continued dialogue could potentially lead to a more stable situation in the region.

127 people, 85 of them children, have died from hunger or malnutrition in Gaza as a result of Israel's siege, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blocked all aid in March, claiming it was to pressure Hamas. Israel unilaterally broke a ceasefire later that month. The Israeli government blames the UN, accusing its aid agency of working with Hamas to restrict food access. This follows similar actions in March 2024 and September, where Israel blocked UN aid convoys and 83% of Gaza's aid, respectively. Israel denies blocking aid, blaming UN inefficiency or Hamas. In May, Israel and the US backed the creation of the GHF, replacing UN aid distribution points with four poorly managed ones. Over 1,000 people have been killed trying to access food at GHF distribution points since May. Israel's COGAT denies a famine exists, claiming only "pockets" with food access issues, while stating that much UN aid is rotting. Israel's military has reportedly burned or buried thousands of trucks' worth of aid. Israel accuses the UN of working with Hamas to restrict aid, a claim the UN denies. Independent reviews found no evidence to support Israel's claims of UN collusion with Hamas. The UN reports bureaucratic obstacles, hostilities, access constraints, and looting have limited aid delivery; half of 16 food distribution requests to the Israeli military were refused.

Impact Statement: The Israeli siege of Gaza has led to a man-made famine resulting in numerous deaths, a humanitarian crisis, and significant international condemnation. The situation highlights the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and raises serious concerns about potential war crimes.

Two Palestinian women, Mary Sheikh al-Eid and Khadija Abu Anza, were killed on Thursday during a women-only food distribution organized by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) in the Rafah area. The GHF, operating with Israeli and US support, has established four distribution sites for Gaza's two million people, leading to chaotic scenes and numerous deaths since its implementation in May. Witnesses report Israeli forces using pepper spray, stun grenades, and live fire against crowds attempting to access aid.

Khawla, Mary's sister, described the scene as chaotic and out of control, stating that Israeli forces used pepper spray and stun grenades on the crowd of women. Samah, Khadija's sister, recounted how Israeli troops fired warning shots and then shot Khadija in the neck from a short distance. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated it fired warning shots hundreds of meters away from the distribution site before its opening, claiming it was responding to a threat, but denied knowledge of casualties. The UN has reported over 1,000 Palestinian deaths since May near GHF distribution sites, and criticizes the GHF system as unethical.

The GHF system has been widely condemned by many European governments and aid groups, who allege it undermines existing humanitarian efforts and increases Israeli control over food distribution. Israel counters that Hamas was diverting aid under the previous UN system, although this claim lacks evidence. The ongoing situation highlights the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with daily reports of malnutrition deaths and calls for increased aid to prevent a total collapse.

Impact Statement: The deaths underscore the deadly consequences of the GHF food distribution system and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting concerns about Israel's responsibility to protect civilians under international law.

At least 57 people were killed in Gaza in the past 24 hours, many while seeking aid or killed by Israeli airstrikes. A worsening starvation crisis coincides with the apparent failure of ceasefire talks. The Palestinian news agency reported at least 124 starvation deaths, including 84 children, with three infants dying of malnutrition in 24 hours. Israeli strikes continued, including one that killed four people in a Gaza City apartment building. Ceasefire talks stalled after the US and Israel withdrew negotiating teams from Doha. US President Donald Trump blamed Hamas, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu considered “alternative options.” Hamas denied responsibility, suggesting the withdrawal was a negotiating tactic. Egypt and Qatar, mediating the talks, suggested talks could resume. Disagreements remain over troop deployments, aid access, and prisoner exchanges.

The starvation crisis is severe, with the World Food Programme warning that over 90,000 women and children urgently need malnutrition treatment, and one in three Gazans going days without food. Rania al-Sharahi, a pregnant mother of six, described her family's desperate struggle for food. Israel downplayed the crisis, blaming the UN for aid distribution failures, while the UN cited Israeli restrictions. Despite Israel claiming to have allowed 4,500 aid lorries into Gaza since ending its blockade in May, the UN says this is inadequate. Facing global pressure over images of starving children, Israel will resume airdropped aid, but UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini called this a “distraction.” France will recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September, while Italy opposes this move. Nearly 60,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel's military operation began on October 7, 2023, in response to a Hamas attack that killed approximately 1,200.

Impact Statement: The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life and widespread suffering, with significant international implications and diplomatic fallout.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a severe water crisis, with over 85% of water and sanitation infrastructure destroyed. Israel's targeting of water infrastructure, including a July 21st attack on a desalination plant killing five, and the blocking of water-related materials, has created a humanitarian catastrophe. This has forced Palestinians to endure long queues for scarce water, leading to preventable deaths, such as the July 13th missile strike on a water queue, killing 11, including seven children. The lack of access to clean water has caused widespread disease outbreaks, including hepatitis A, as described by the author. Access to the sea for fishing and swimming has been banned, further restricting relief. The author details their personal struggle with hepatitis A contracted from contaminated well water, highlighting the devastating impact on individuals.

Human Rights Watch declared in December 2024 that Palestinians in Gaza are facing genocide, citing Israel’s deliberate water deprivation as a key factor. Thousands have died from malnutrition, dehydration, and disease, with the actual numbers likely higher due to insufficient tracking capacity. The author emphasizes the world's inaction in the face of this ongoing crisis. Palestinians receive between 2 and 9 liters of water daily compared to Israelis' 247 liters, falling far short of the World Health Organization's recommended 100 liters per day.

Impact Statement: The severe water crisis in Gaza, resulting from deliberate targeting of infrastructure and the blockade of essential materials, constitutes a major humanitarian crisis and potential genocide, demanding immediate international intervention.

The UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final between England and Spain will take place on July 27 at St Jakob-Park in Basel, Switzerland. The match follows a decade of struggle for the Spanish women’s team, who fought for improved coaching, travel, and training facilities. Former Spain defender Marta Torrejon highlighted the past difficulties, describing earlier periods as a "waste of time" due to inadequate preparation and training. However, improvements under Jorge Vilda, followed by changes spurred by the controversy surrounding Luis Rubiales' behavior after the 2023 World Cup win, have led to significant progress. Current players like Alexia Putellas and Irene Paredes have confirmed these improvements in conditions. England, meanwhile, overcame challenges in their semi-final and quarter-final matches to reach the final.

The match pits two football powerhouses against each other, with Spain boasting a strong squad featuring eleven players from Barcelona, including Ballon d'Or winners Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmati. The success of the Spanish team is partly attributed to Barcelona's decade-long investment in women's football, which included equal coaching for boys' and girls' teams, fostering a consistent playing style. England will be hoping to overcome recent injuries and match Spain's improved game.

Impact Statement: The match will determine the winner of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 and further highlight the growth and evolving dynamics of women's football.

The United Kingdom is collaborating with Jordan to develop plans for airdropping aid and evacuating children requiring medical care from Gaza. This follows the deaths of over 120 Palestinians from starvation, including more than 80 children, due to Israel's ongoing blockade and military actions. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed these plans following a call with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The UK government emphasizes the need for a lasting peace, while facing domestic criticism for its perceived insufficient response to the humanitarian crisis.

UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini criticized the airdrop proposal as expensive, inefficient, and potentially dangerous, advocating instead for Israel to lift its siege and allow aid to enter Gaza via land. He highlighted the readiness of thousands of UN trucks in neighboring countries awaiting permission to enter. Over 100 aid and human rights organizations have also urged governments for urgent action, including an immediate ceasefire and removal of restrictions on humanitarian aid. The UK also faces controversy over continued arms sales to Israel despite previous government claims of scaling back weapons exports.

Impact Statement: The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza demands immediate international action to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian population. The effectiveness and ethical implications of the proposed airdrop solution remain a subject of intense debate.

Irina Krynina, a Russian accountant, traveled to Ukraine in September 2023 to find her partner, Yevgeny Kovtkov, a Russian soldier captured by Ukrainian forces. She utilized the Ukrainian HUR helpline, "I Want to Live," initially designed for surrendering Russian soldiers, to locate him. Upon finding him, she discovered their relationship had irrevocably changed due to the war's trauma.

Following this experience, Krynina founded "Our Way Out," a project assisting relatives of Russian prisoners of war. The initiative, supported by journalist Viktoria Ivleva, connects families with their captured loved ones, provides logistical support, and records video interviews that serve as proof of captivity. The project's YouTube channel has over 100,000 subscribers.

Krynina's work has garnered mixed reactions, with some Ukrainians expressing concern over her presence while others acknowledge her efforts to facilitate prisoner exchanges and provide vital information to Russians about the war's realities. In July 2025, her project was added to Russia's "foreign agents" blacklist. She expresses hope for a future return to a "free Russia" but anticipates lasting strained relations between Russians and Ukrainians.

Impact Statement: Krynina's actions highlight the human cost of the war and the complex dynamics of relationships amidst conflict. Her project sheds light on the plight of Russian POWs and their families, contributing to the ongoing information war.

The British and Irish Lions secured a 29-17 victory over Australia in the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, winning the series. Hugo Keenan scored a last-minute try, following a television match official review, to secure the win for the Lions in front of a record crowd of over 90,000. Australia had dominated the first half, scoring three tries through James Slipper, Jake Gordon, and Tom Wright, along with penalties from Tom Lynagh, to lead 23-5. The Lions mounted a remarkable comeback in the second half, scoring tries through Dan Sheehan, Tom Curry, Huw Jones, and Tadhg Beirne to take the lead.

The match was a highly physical and intense encounter, with both teams showcasing impressive attacking prowess. Australia's strong first half performance was fueled by the powerful performances of Rob Valetini and Will Skelton. However, the Lions resilience and late game execution ultimately secured their victory, marking their first series win in Australia since 1997.

Impact Statement: The victory marks a significant achievement for the British & Irish Lions, securing their first series win in Australia in 26 years.