Intensifying border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia prompted UN Secretary-General António Guterres to urge "utmost restraint." The clashes, beginning July 24, involved gunfire, artillery, and airstrikes, resulting in civilian casualties, including children. Over 131,000 people in Thailand and over 4,000 in Cambodia have been displaced, creating overcrowded temporary shelters and urgent needs for food, shelter, and medical assistance. The UN stands ready to support humanitarian efforts if requested. UNICEF's June Kunugi urged both countries to protect children and ensure schools remain safe spaces. The UN Security Council held a private emergency meeting to discuss the situation with representatives from both countries present.

The last major escalation occurred in 2011 near the Preah Vihear temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then-Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for a ceasefire and dialogue then as well.

Impact Statement: The escalating conflict threatens regional stability and necessitates immediate humanitarian intervention to address the growing displacement crisis and civilian casualties.

Since July 13, approximately 176,000 people have been displaced from Syria's Sweida Governorate due to violent clashes between Bedouin tribal fighters, Syrian government forces, and Druze militias. Many have fled to neighboring Dar'a and Rural Damascus governorates. Separately, a large explosion at an ammunition depot in Ma'arrat Tasmarin, Idleb Governorate, killed six and injured at least 140 others on Thursday. Secondary explosions hampered emergency response efforts.

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed five attacks on healthcare facilities in Sweida, resulting in the deaths of at least two doctors. The WHO reported obstructions and targeting of ambulances, along with temporary hospital occupations. Dr. Christina Bethke, WHO acting representative in Syria, stated that healthcare must never be a target and that health facilities, patients, and workers must be protected. Sweida's hospitals face shortages of staff, electricity, water, and supplies. Poor security conditions are restricting aid delivery to Sweida. The UN has launched an extension of its 2025 humanitarian appeal, currently less than 12% funded.

Impact Statement: The ongoing violence and attacks on healthcare infrastructure in Syria are severely impacting civilians and hindering humanitarian aid delivery, creating a major humanitarian crisis.

UN officials reported a surge in Russian aerial attacks across Ukraine, resulting in a sharp increase in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. In the first half of 2025 alone, 6,754 civilians were killed or injured, marking a three-year high according to the UN human rights office (OHCHR). Over 5,000 long-range munitions were launched in July, including a record 728 drones in a single day, targeting major cities like Kyiv and Odesa. The attacks have hit civilian targets including a rehabilitation center in Kharkiv, maternity wards, schools, and energy infrastructure.

Assistant Secretary-General for Europe Miroslav Jenča and Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Joyce Msuya both emphasized the lack of safe areas within Ukraine due to the widespread use of explosive weapons in populated areas. The humanitarian situation is worsening, with nearly 13 million people requiring assistance, but only 34% of the $2.6 billion needed has been received. The displacement crisis continues, with over 3.7 million internally displaced and nearly six million refugees abroad. The UN also expressed concern over reported civilian casualties from Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia, reiterating that international law prohibits attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. Attacks near Ukrainian nuclear facilities have heightened alarm.

Despite some diplomatic efforts, including prisoner exchanges and talks, UN officials stressed the urgent need for a complete, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and pave the way for lasting peace.

Impact Statement: The escalating conflict in Ukraine is causing a major humanitarian crisis, demanding increased international aid and a diplomatic resolution.

Over 1.3 million Sudanese people, including one million internally displaced persons and over 300,000 refugees, have returned home, according to UN agencies. This follows over two years of conflict beginning in April 2023, which has created the world's largest displacement crisis, affecting over 12 million Sudanese. Many returnees are heading to Khartoum, Al Jazirah, and Sennar states, areas heavily impacted by the war.

Despite the hope this signifies, returnees face extremely challenging conditions. Khartoum, for example, has significant infrastructure damage, including ruined buildings and compromised public services. The returnees also face dangers like unexploded ordnance and high rates of gender-based violence. UN agencies, including the IOM and UNHCR, are working to provide aid, but funding is critically low, with only 23% of the needed $4.2 billion received.

IOM emphasizes that returns must be voluntary and dignified, and that returnees are vital to Sudan's recovery. However, the UN also highlights the urgent need to end the conflict to allow for sustainable rebuilding.

Impact Statement: The mass return of Sudanese refugees highlights a complex situation—hope for homecoming juxtaposed with the immense challenges of rebuilding a war-torn nation facing severe underfunding of humanitarian aid.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned on Friday about rapidly deteriorating conditions in the Gaza Strip due to ongoing Israeli military operations. Two more deaths from starvation were reported the previous day, highlighting a deepening starvation crisis. Food scarcity is increasing malnutrition and illness, particularly among vulnerable groups, impacting pregnant and breastfeeding women and their babies. Severe fuel shortages persist, hindering essential services, despite limited supplies allocated to community kitchens, healthcare, and sanitation. Of 15 humanitarian aid attempts on Thursday, only five were successful due to Israeli restrictions on movement and access.

The UN is prepared to scale up aid delivery but requires Israel to open crossings, allow fuel and equipment entry, and ensure safe operations for humanitarian staff. Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher stated that the UN has a plan to save lives and has reached out to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) for potential collaboration, emphasizing adherence to humanitarian principles of impartiality, neutrality, and independence. He also expressed willingness to engage in dialogue to maximize aid delivery.

Impact Statement: The ongoing crisis in Gaza requires immediate international action to alleviate suffering and prevent further loss of life. The UN's call for unrestricted access to provide humanitarian aid is critical to addressing the catastrophic situation.

Clashes between Thai and Cambodian troops intensified on July 23, following a significant escalation of tensions. Thailand's military reported conducting airstrikes after claiming Cambodia initiated artillery shelling across the border near the contested Ta Moan Thom Temple. Both sides blame each other for initiating the violence. As of Friday afternoon, Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reported "more than 20 deaths" and numerous injuries, mostly among Thai civilians. Cambodian officials haven't released casualty figures. Tensions have been rising since May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a border incident. Both countries downgraded diplomatic relations and withdrew ambassadors.

The conflict's potential for escalation into a wider war is a major concern. Experts express differing views on the likelihood of a prolonged conflict, with some suggesting a swift resolution is possible, while others anticipate protracted tensions. The clashes represent the most serious conflict in the region in over a decade, fueled by long-standing territorial disputes and recent nationalist sentiment. The conflict has also been influenced by internal Thai politics, including the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Hun Manet, Cambodia's Prime Minister, stated Cambodia responded with force to an armed invasion, while Thai officials have presented a different account of events. The conflict has caused 100,000 people to flee border regions. Malaysia, as ASEAN chair, has appealed for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue. Third-party mediation is considered a potential off-ramp.

Impact Statement: The escalating conflict threatens regional stability and could have significant humanitarian consequences, demanding urgent diplomatic intervention.

Around 90% of Gaza's 2 million inhabitants have been displaced, crowded into 12% of the territory due to evacuations and military restrictions. The ongoing war, which began in October 2023, has resulted in at least 58,380 Palestinian deaths (as of July 15, 2025), according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), though independent verification is impossible due to the ongoing military operation. Multiple studies suggest the death toll may be significantly higher, with estimates exceeding 80,000 by January. The conflict was triggered by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of hundreds of Israelis.

The situation is characterized by severe food insecurity. Most hospitals are non-functional, bakeries and community kitchens are closed due to supply shortages, and an estimated 470,000 people face catastrophic hunger (IPC level 5). The UN World Food Programme (WFP) reports that almost one in three people go days without food. The lack of access to basic necessities, exacerbated by an 11-week Israeli blockade of humanitarian supplies during the spring, is leading to widespread starvation and malnutrition, particularly among children. Doctors Without Borders reports a surge in acute malnutrition cases, with deaths from starvation occurring daily.

The international community is increasingly calling for an end to the conflict, with 28 countries expressing concerns. Despite efforts from aid organizations like the WFP and the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), the amount of aid reaching Gaza remains drastically insufficient to meet the population’s needs.

Impact Statement: The humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip is rapidly escalating, posing an immediate threat to the lives of millions of Palestinians. The lack of access to food, water, medicine, and essential services necessitates urgent and substantial international intervention.

Thai officials have called for a peaceful resolution to ongoing border clashes with Cambodia, resulting in casualties on both sides. Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Nikorndej Balankura stated that the situation has improved slightly, but fighting continues. Thailand has attempted to engage Cambodia in bilateral talks, but these efforts have not been met with a positive response. While preferring a bilateral solution, Thailand hasn't ruled out mediation by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), particularly given Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's communication with his Thai counterpart regarding potential regional involvement.

At least 13 Thai civilians and one soldier have died, with 45 wounded, while Cambodia has reported one death. Thailand claims its military came under fire, prompting the escalation and subsequent evacuations of at least 100,000 people from the border region. Cambodia alleges that Thailand initiated the conflict. The Thai government has opened evacuation shelters and deployed medical teams to assist those displaced.

Thailand insists on defending its territorial integrity.

Impact Statement: The border conflict threatens regional stability and displaces tens of thousands of civilians.

Forty Gazan students, awarded full scholarships to UK universities for the September term, are facing visa delays due to the ongoing conflict. Among them are Abdallah, a medical doctor pursuing an MSc in data science and AI at Queen Mary University of London; Israa, a doctor undertaking a PhD in sexual and reproductive health at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine; Khulud, a Chevening scholar studying dental health at University College London; Majd, a mechanical engineer studying advanced manufacturing at the University of Liverpool; Abeer, studying data and health science at the University of St Andrews; and Samah, a medical laboratory specialist pursuing an MSc in genomic medicine at the University of Oxford. Each student described the dire situation in Gaza and the critical importance of their studies for rebuilding their war-torn homeland. Campaigners are urging the British government to intervene to facilitate their travel.

These students highlight the devastating impact of the conflict on education and the crucial role these professionals could play in Gaza's reconstruction. Their scholarship offers represent a beacon of hope amidst the devastation, and the denial of their visas raises serious concerns about the future of Gaza's recovery.

Impact Statement: The inability of these scholars to attend their UK universities due to visa complications risks hindering Gaza's post-conflict recovery and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis.

Russia is launching unprecedented numbers of drones, decoys, cruise, and ballistic missiles into Ukraine, straining the country's defenses and raising concerns about its ability to withstand another winter of war. Attacks, such as the one on Lutsk earlier this month involving 728 drones and 13 missiles, are occurring more frequently—every three to five days instead of every 10 to 12—leading to a rise in civilian casualties (232 in June, the highest monthly total in three years). A 1,000-drone attack is anticipated. Russia's improved drone tactics, including the use of swarms with decoys and varying altitudes, are increasing the number of drones penetrating Ukrainian defenses—from close to 5% in March/April to 15-20% in May/June.

The increased drone attacks utilize Shahed drones (Geran-2s in Russia), produced in Russia (at least two factories identified: Izhevsk and Yelabuga), with components potentially supplied by China. The low cost of these drones (roughly $50,000-$100,000 each) and their effectiveness in clearing paths for more dangerous missiles are key factors. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has renewed calls for US Patriot air defense systems (though cost-ineffective against Shaheds) and Germany pledged to fund five more. Ukraine is also developing counter-drone technology, with some progress reported.

The increased drone attacks show Russia's ongoing commitment to forcing Ukraine's surrender, indicating the war is far from a stalemate. Efforts to secure international air policing over western Ukraine are underway, but face significant hurdles due to fears of escalating the conflict with NATO.

Impact Statement: The intensified Russian drone warfare significantly impacts Ukraine's ability to defend itself and raises concerns about the humanitarian and infrastructural consequences, particularly as winter approaches.

Georges Ibrahim Abdallah, a 74-year-old Lebanese pro-Palestinian activist, was released from Lannemezan prison in southern France on Friday after nearly 40 years in jail. He was convicted in 1987 for the killings of a US military attaché and an Israeli diplomat in Paris. His release, following a November ruling by the Paris Court of Appeal, was conditional upon his departure from France and permanent exclusion from the country.

Abdallah, founder of the now-defunct Lebanese Revolutionary Armed Factions, maintained his stance as a “militant” throughout his imprisonment and expressed no remorse for his actions. Despite repeated applications for release being rejected, largely due to US pressure, the court cited his irreproachable prison behavior, advanced age, and the disproportionate length of his sentence as justification for release. His lawyer reported him as “very happy” despite the challenging conditions in Lebanon and Palestine.

His family is expected to meet him at Beirut's airport before taking him to his hometown of Kobayat.

Impact Statement: The release, after significant pressure and lengthy legal proceedings, could strain US-French relations and affect perceptions of French justice policy regarding long-term imprisonment and terrorism convictions.

Sinkholes, large ground depressions, are increasing globally due to a combination of drought, excessive groundwater extraction, and heavy rainfall intensified by climate change. Over a thousand people in the Brazilian Amazon are at risk due to sinkholes that have opened near their homes, prompting a state of emergency. The phenomenon is not limited to Brazil; sinkholes have appeared in the US, Turkey, Iran, and other countries. These formations occur when water erodes soil, often accelerated in karst terrain (limestone, salt beds, or gypsum) susceptible to groundwater dissolution. Experts like Hong Yang of the University of Reading and Antonios E. Marsellos of Hofstra University highlight climate change's role in intensifying droughts and heavy rains, weakening the ground and triggering collapses. The Konya Plain in Turkey, a karst region, experienced only one sinkhole every few years before the 2000s, but in 2024 alone, 42 were documented, with groundwater levels dropping by at least 60 meters since 1970. Excessive groundwater pumping for agricultural and other needs worsens the issue.

Experts utilize technologies like satellite imagery and ground-penetrating radar to detect sinkholes before collapse. Preventive measures include regulating groundwater use, implementing efficient irrigation techniques, fixing leaks, enforcing building codes, and employing engineering solutions such as injecting grout to fill voids. In Turkey's Konya Basin, efforts include water transfer projects and a shift to more efficient irrigation methods.

Impact Statement: The increasing frequency and severity of sinkholes pose a significant threat to infrastructure, lives, and livelihoods globally, demanding urgent attention to sustainable water management and climate change adaptation strategies.

Iranian state television reported on Friday that a Russian Soyuz rocket successfully launched the Nahid-2 communications satellite from Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome. The 110kg satellite, designed and built by Iranian engineers, represents a further advancement in Iran's space program. This launch comes shortly before nuclear talks between Iran, Britain, France, and Germany commenced in Istanbul.

Western governments have voiced apprehension that Iran's space program advancements could contribute to improvements in its ballistic missile technology. The launch follows Iran's December announcement of placing its heaviest payload into orbit using a domestically produced satellite carrier and a September launch of the Chamran-1 research satellite.

The recent launch adds to existing international concerns regarding Iran's technological capabilities.

The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has intensified, resulting in at least 16 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai warned that the fighting, involving heavy weapons across 12 border locations, could escalate into war. Thailand accuses Cambodia of shelling civilian areas, prompting evacuations, while Cambodia alleges Thailand used banned cluster munitions. Despite international calls for a ceasefire from nations including the US, China, Australia, the EU, and France, and an offer of mediation from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Thailand's foreign ministry insists on a bilateral solution without third-party involvement. The UN Security Council is scheduled to meet to discuss the conflict.

Both countries have provided differing accounts of the conflict's origin, with accusations of initiating hostilities exchanged between them. The dispute stems from a long-standing border disagreement dating back over a century, exacerbated by recent clashes. Evacuees in Thailand described the recent fighting as the worst they have experienced, surpassing even the violence of the Cambodian Civil War.

Impact Statement: The escalating conflict poses a significant threat to regional stability and has already caused substantial human suffering and displacement. The refusal of Thailand to accept third-party mediation raises concerns about the potential for further escalation.

Iranian diplomats are meeting with their counterparts from Germany, the UK, and France (E3) in Istanbul on Friday. This follows a mid-June Israeli attack on Iran, triggering a 12-day conflict involving US military intervention and targeting Iranian nuclear sites. The meeting aims to address the E3's stance on Iran's nuclear program, with Iran rejecting the extension of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and the potential "snapback" of UN sanctions. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi described the threat of sanctions as "completely illegal" and accused European powers of failing to uphold their commitments to the 2015 nuclear deal.

Iran maintains its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes, rejecting accusations of pursuing nuclear weapons. While enrichment is currently halted due to damage from the US and Israeli strikes, Iran insists its nuclear program will continue within international law. The E3's threat to trigger the "snapback" mechanism, reinstating sanctions, is set to expire in October. Israel has urged the E3 to activate this mechanism, while Iran has warned of severe consequences.

Impact Statement: The outcome of these talks will significantly impact regional stability and international relations, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear program and the future of the 2015 nuclear deal.

France’s Cour de Cassation is set to rule on whether to strip Bashar al-Assad of state immunity, potentially paving the way for his trial in absentia for alleged chemical weapons use in Ghouta (2013) and Douma (2018). The ruling could set a precedent for prosecuting other government leaders accused of atrocities. Al-Assad denies the accusations and has not retained legal representation. Mazen Darwish, president of the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression, called a ruling against Assad a "huge victory for the victims," suggesting it could open doors for pursuing legal action against other Syrian government members.

The potential ramifications extend beyond Syria. The decision could influence the prosecution of other world leaders accused of atrocities, mirroring recent ICC actions against figures like Vladimir Putin and Rodrigo Duterte. Al-Assad's family ruled Syria for over 50 years, triggering a brutal civil war in 2011 that resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions of refugees. Despite promises of inclusivity, recent violence against minority groups persists. While the US threatened retaliation for the 2013 Ghouta attack, a deal with Russia saw Assad surrendering his chemical weapons stockpile. Russia's substantial military aid helped Assad remain in power for over a decade before being overthrown by rebel groups.

Impact Statement: The ruling could significantly impact the pursuit of justice for victims of war crimes and potentially alter the international legal landscape regarding the prosecution of heads of state.

The route of stage 19 of the Tour de France has been altered due to an outbreak of contagious nodular dermatitis in a herd of cattle near the Col des Saisies. Organizers, ASO, announced the culling of the affected animals and a shortened route to avoid the affected area. The stage, originally 130km, is now 95km, omitting two planned climbs. Riders will depart one hour later than scheduled, at 13:30 BST from Albertville.

The change impacts the remaining competition, particularly Oscar Onley, who is 22 seconds from a podium place and the white jersey. Onley's strong performance in stage 18, where he significantly reduced the gap to Florian Lipowitz, could be affected by the shortened stage. The final climb to La Plagne remains, potentially allowing for substantial time differences. Tadej Pogacar holds a commanding lead over Jonas Vingegaard in the general classification.

The shortened stage may influence the outcome, particularly for riders aiming for podium positions. The race concludes on Sunday in Paris.