Representatives from Germany, France, and the UK will meet with Iranian counterparts in Istanbul on Friday to negotiate the future of Iran's nuclear program. Failure to reach an agreement risks triggering a renewed wave of sanctions against Iran. Uncertainty remains regarding the extent of damage to Iranian nuclear facilities following attacks in June, with differing expert opinions on Iran's ability to quickly resume enrichment. Hamidreza Azizi of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) believes Iran retains significant stockpiles of enriched uranium and the technical capability to resume enrichment. Michael Brzoska of the University of Hamburg suggests that damage to centrifuges may hinder Iran's ability to quickly enrich uranium to weapons-grade levels.

A July deadline set by the three European nations and the US for a nuclear agreement is looming. If no agreement is reached by the end of August, the European partners will reinstate previous UN sanctions against Iran through a "snapback" mechanism in the 2016 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). While the US, having withdrawn from the JCPOA in 2018, cannot trigger the snapback, it has imposed its own sanctions on Iran. Iran continues to deny military intentions for its nuclear program, but its actions have raised concerns among other states. Experts suggest the best possible outcome of the upcoming talks is an extension to the August deadline.

Impact Statement: The outcome of the Istanbul talks will significantly impact Iran's economy and international relations, potentially leading to renewed sanctions and further regional instability.

Severe food shortages and limited aid are causing widespread starvation in Gaza, according to multiple sources including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Food Program (WFP). Displaced Palestinians describe desperate situations, with families struggling to find food, and instances of people fainting from hunger in the streets. The UN's OCHA reports that nearly 88% of Gaza is under evacuation orders or designated as military zones, hindering aid delivery. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the situation as "mass starvation," while the WFP reported that a third of the population is going multiple days without food. Gaza's Hamas-run Health Ministry reported 48 malnutrition deaths in July alone, a stark increase compared to previous years. Aid distribution challenges persist, with limited numbers of aid trucks entering Gaza daily, despite claims from Israeli authorities that they are not restricting humanitarian aid. Looting has increased due to supply scarcity, and at least 875 people have reportedly been killed by Israeli fire while seeking aid.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian crisis of mass starvation, impacting a large portion of the population, with many lacking access to basic food and medical care. The situation is exacerbated by limited aid access and ongoing violence.

Impact Statement: The mass starvation in Gaza constitutes a major humanitarian crisis demanding immediate international intervention to alleviate suffering and prevent further loss of life.

US special envoy Steve Witkoff announced the termination of ceasefire talks in Gaza on Thursday, citing a perceived lack of good faith from Hamas. The announcement followed Hamas's submission of a response to a ceasefire framework proposed by mediators Qatar, Egypt, and the US. While details of the response remain undisclosed, Witkoff stated that Hamas's actions showed "a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire," and that the US would explore "alternative options" to secure the release of hostages and improve the situation in Gaza. The current proposal reportedly included a 60-day ceasefire contingent upon Hamas releasing captives, with reciprocal Palestinian prisoner releases and increased aid supplies.

At least 115 Gazans have died from malnutrition since the start of the conflict in October 2023, amidst Israel's severe restrictions on aid. The envoy's statement follows Israel's recall of its negotiating team from Qatar. The ongoing conflict has resulted in at least 59,587 Palestinian deaths and at least 1,139 Israeli deaths.

Israel's plans for long-term military presence and potential Palestinian relocation have also complicated the situation and faced international criticism. The US remains "resolute" in seeking an end to the war, according to Witkoff. However, the nature of the US withdrawal – whether a negotiating tactic or definitive end to the talks – remains unclear.

Impact Statement: The breakdown in talks significantly jeopardizes hopes for a near-term ceasefire in Gaza, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and raising concerns about the conflict's trajectory.

Rishabh Pant, despite a foot injury sustained on Day One, returned to score 54 runs for India in the fourth Test against England at Old Trafford. India was bowled out for 358, with Ben Stokes taking 5-72. Pant's unexpected return followed an overnight report of a possible fracture; he limped to the crease and added 17 runs to his overnight score before being dismissed.

England then dominated the day's play, with Zak Crawley (84) and Ben Duckett (94) putting on a blistering 166-run opening partnership. The pair hit 26 fours between them. At stumps on Day Two, England was 225-2, trailing by 133 runs.

England leads the five-match series 2-1, and Ben Stokes is the leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets for the series after taking five wickets in the fourth test—his first five-wicket haul in eight years.

Impact Statement: England's strong performance puts them in a commanding position to win the fourth Test and potentially the series.

Patrice-Edouard Ngaissona and Alfred Yekatom, leaders of the anti-Balaka militia, were convicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Thursday for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed against Muslim civilians in the Central African Republic (CAR) between 2013 and 2014. Yekatom received a 15-year sentence for 20 counts, while Ngaissona was sentenced to 12 years for 28 counts. The crimes included murder, torture, and attacks on civilians. The anti-Balaka militia was formed in response to the Seleka rebel group's seizure of power in 2013.

The ICC trial, which began in 2021, detailed harrowing accounts of violence against suspected Seleka Muslims, including mutilation and torture. While Yekatom was found not guilty of conscripting child soldiers, and Ngaissona was acquitted of rape charges, both men had pleaded not guilty to all charges. The convictions mark the first ICC case focusing on the violence following the Seleka's 2013 takeover. Yekatom was extradited from the CAR in late 2018, and Ngaissona was extradited from France in December 2018. The trial of another alleged Seleka commander is ongoing.

Impact Statement: The convictions represent a significant step towards accountability for the atrocities committed during the CAR's civil war and may contribute to reconciliation efforts.

252 Venezuelan men deported to El Salvador's notorious Terrorism Confinement Center (Cecot) in March after a deal between the US and Venezuelan governments have described their treatment as "hell" and likened it to a "horror movie." The men, accused by the US of gang affiliation, were transferred without due process, sparking outrage from critics. Many were reunited with their families in Venezuela after their release last Friday as part of a prisoner exchange.

Deportés reported beatings, abuse, and the theft of their belongings during their four months of imprisonment. Carlos Uzcátegui described being beaten and kicked, while Arturo Suárez, whose reggaeton music gained attention online following his deportation, called the prison "hell" and vowed that those responsible would face divine justice. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and other officials allege torture, including rape and pellet-gun wounds, though the Associated Press could not independently verify all claims.

Venezuela's attorney general has opened an investigation into the allegations against El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele. The deportations occurred after the Trump administration paid El Salvador $6 million to house the men, who were accused of belonging to the Tren de Aragua street gang. The men's families shared deeply emotional reunions, highlighting the human cost of the deportation policy and the desperate circumstances that drove many Venezuelans to migrate in the first place.

Impact Statement: The accounts of abuse have raised serious human rights concerns and prompted an investigation, potentially impacting US-Venezuela and US-El Salvador relations.

Three Palestinian freelance journalists working with the BBC in Gaza are struggling to feed their families, often going without food for multiple days. Despite experiencing personal tragedies, including the deaths of relatives, displacement, and injuries from bombings, they continue to provide crucial footage of the conflict. One journalist described the situation as "the hardest time I have lived through since I was born. It's a huge crisis of suffering and deprivation," highlighting the severe food shortages impacting the population. The UN has warned of man-made mass starvation, blaming Israel's control over supplies, while Israel denies responsibility. The BBC and other news agencies have released a joint statement expressing deep concern for the journalists' wellbeing and urging Israel to allow access to Gaza.

The journalists' accounts detail the extreme hardships they and their families are facing, including children going hungry and the lack of access to clean water. Financial difficulties further exacerbate their situation, with significant fees associated with accessing dwindling cash reserves due to bank closures. Even basic supplies are scarce in local markets. These journalists report working while experiencing severe fatigue and exhaustion, impacting their ability to effectively report on the ongoing conflict.

The inability of these journalists to meet their basic needs, mirroring the conditions of the wider population, underscores the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation severely impacts their ability to report and highlights the urgent need for humanitarian aid.

Max Verstappen has stated that Christian Horner's departure as Red Bull team boss will not affect his current contract, which runs until 2028. The four-time world champion, previously linked with a move to Mercedes, reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull during a press conference before the Belgian Grand Prix. Verstappen emphasized his focus on improving car performance and dismissed any impact from past tensions between Horner and his father, Jos Verstappen.

He welcomed the appointment of Laurent Mekies as Horner's successor, believing it will lead to a stronger technical focus within the team. Verstappen indicated that while his future is unpredictable, his initial intention when signing his contract was to remain with Red Bull for his entire career. He currently sits third in the drivers' standings.

Verstappen's confirmation should alleviate concerns surrounding his future and provide stability for Red Bull.

A new report from the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) reveals that mercury production is "out of control" in Mexico, the world's second largest producer, driven by high gold prices and cartel involvement. Despite the 2013 Minamata Convention, which aimed to restrict mercury production and use, illegal networks are smuggling the toxic element into South American countries like Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru, fueling illegal gold mining in the Amazon. The EIA tracked 200 tonnes of mercury from Mexico's Querétaro region, where at least 19 active mines operate without oversight, to the Amazon rainforest between 2019 and 2025.

The illegal mercury trade generates billions of dollars in illegal gold profits and has attracted the attention of Mexican cartels, such as the Jalisco New Generation cartel, which exerts control over some mines through armed presence and violence. The investigation resulted in the seizure of a five-tonne mercury shipment in Peru, the largest ever confiscated in an Amazonian country, highlighting the scale of the illegal operation. The mercury pollution contaminates rivers, soil, and air, causing severe environmental and social damage, especially affecting indigenous communities who experience increased health problems.

Illegal mining in the Amazon has increased by 50% between 2018 and 2024, causing a devastating impact on the region’s biodiversity. Mercury contamination poses serious health risks, particularly to children, leading to neurological disorders and developmental problems. The report calls for stricter enforcement of the Minamata Convention, increased international cooperation, and the use of technology to combat smuggling.

Impact Statement: The uncontrolled mercury trade in Latin America poses significant environmental and health risks, demanding urgent international collaboration and stricter regulatory enforcement to mitigate the devastating consequences.

The German humanitarian organization Welthungerhilfe (WHH) released its 2024 report, revealing that 733 million people globally suffer from chronic malnutrition—a 152 million increase since 2019. The report cites climate change, wars, inequality, and reduced funding as contributing factors. WHH President Marlehn Thieme warned that budget cuts by major donor countries like the US and Germany will lead to loss of life, translating to hunger, displacement, and death for millions. Secretary General Mathias Mogge highlighted critical situations in Sudan, where over 11 million people are displaced due to ongoing conflict, and Gaza, describing the humanitarian crisis there as one of the worst in his 30-year career.

WHH is implementing a proactive humanitarian aid system to provide faster responses to crises, enabling quicker payments to prevent victims from losing assets. The organization, operating in 37 countries with over 300 partners, had a €384 million budget in 2024, with the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development as its largest contributor (€147 million). The report emphasizes the strong link between hunger and violent conflict, urging increased diplomatic efforts to end conflicts and secure food supplies. Concerns are raised regarding Germany's planned reduction in humanitarian emergency aid despite increased defense spending, potentially signifying a political departure from international commitments.

Impact Statement: Reduced international aid funding exacerbates global hunger, jeopardizing efforts to alleviate malnutrition and potentially leading to further displacement and loss of life.

The German humanitarian organization Welthungerhilfe (WHH) released its 2024 report, revealing that 733 million people globally suffer from chronic malnutrition—a 152 million increase since 2019. The report cites climate change, wars, inequality, and reduced funding as contributing factors. WHH President Marlehn Thieme warned that budget cuts by major donor countries like the US and Germany will lead to loss of life, stating that "Cuts lead to loss of lives. What looks like austerity measures on paper means hunger, displacement, or even death for millions of people." The situation is particularly dire in Sudan, where half the population (around 25 million) requires humanitarian aid due to ongoing conflict, and in Gaza, described by WHH Secretary General Mathias Mogge as one of the worst humanitarian crises he has witnessed in over 30 years. Syria also faces a catastrophic humanitarian situation with 15 million people lacking nutrition.

WHH, which had a €384 million budget in 2024 (with nearly €87 million from donations), is implementing a proactive humanitarian aid system to respond more quickly to crises. The organization highlights the strong link between hunger and conflict, urging increased diplomatic efforts to end wars. The German government's planned reduction in humanitarian aid despite increased defense spending has drawn criticism from WHH and other NGOs.

Impact Statement: Reduced international funding for humanitarian aid significantly jeopardizes efforts to alleviate global hunger and respond effectively to humanitarian crises.

Aitana Bonmati, the Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder for Spain, overcame a bout of viral meningitis in late June to lead her team to the final of the Women's Euro 2025. She scored the winning goal in the semi-final against Germany, a 1-0 victory in extra time. Bonmati, who also starred in Spain's 2023 World Cup victory over England, described her journey as "a book," highlighting the difficulties she faced recovering in time for the tournament.

Despite missing early matches due to illness, she returned as a substitute in Spain's opening game and later secured a starting position. Her performance earned her the player of the match award. Coach Montse Tome praised Bonmati's hard work and resilience in overcoming health challenges.

Spain will face England in the final, a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, marking a continuation of the growing rivalry between the two nations. The match is set for Sunday in Basel, Switzerland.

Impact Statement: Spain's victory highlights Bonmati's exceptional talent and determination, adding another chapter to the growing rivalry between Spain and England in women's football.

The July 19th truce between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and the M23 rebel group, following a June 27th DRC-Rwanda peace deal in Washington, has been met with widespread doubt. Despite initial welcome from the US, UN, and African Union, the US issued a security advisory for DRC, advising US citizens to prepare for potential extended home confinement, mirroring preparations for natural disasters. Experts express significant reservations, citing continued M23 control over parts of the DRC, including recent attacks resulting in civilian deaths, and statements from M23 leaders that they will not retreat. The Doha Declaration of Principles, meant to bring lasting peace, is viewed by many as having little chance of success due to its ambiguous wording and lack of a withdrawal clause for M23.

While some Congolese officials express cautious optimism, analysts like Reagan Miviri and Lidewyde Berckmoes highlight the ongoing violence and the M23's refusal to cede territory as evidence that the agreement is unlikely to lead to a lasting peace. Concerns are raised about the inclusion of all armed groups in future negotiations, the lack of commitment to peace from all parties, and the history of broken agreements in the region. The continued violence and lack of government response are contributing to widespread anxiety and a sense of institutional failure.

Impact Statement: The fragile truce and the deep skepticism surrounding it suggest a prolonged period of instability and violence in eastern DRC, with significant humanitarian implications.

The July 19 truce between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government and the M23 rebel group, following a June 27 DRC-Rwanda peace deal in Washington, has been met with widespread skepticism. While the US, UN, and African Union welcomed the Doha Declaration of Principles, the US issued a security advisory for DRC, urging citizens to exercise increased awareness and prepare for potential extended home confinement. This advisory mirrors preparations for major natural disasters.

Despite the agreement, reports indicate ongoing M23 territorial expansion, including the killing of at least 19 civilians near Bukera. M23 leader Benjamin Mbonimpa stated the group will not retreat, a sentiment echoed by various Congolese analysts and activists who doubt the truce's longevity due to the agreement's perceived ambiguity and lack of a withdrawal clause. Concerns exist regarding the inclusivity of negotiations and the will of all parties to achieve lasting peace.

Impact Statement: The ongoing violence and skepticism surrounding the DRC-M23 truce raise serious concerns about the prospects for lasting peace in eastern Congo and the region. The lack of a clear path to demilitarization and the continuing conflict undermine the potential for stability.

At least 113 people have died of hunger in Gaza, 45 in the last four days, according to UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, who described the situation as a "deepening crisis" with UN staff fainting from hunger. Lazzarini stated on X that Gazans are "walking corpses." Reports detail people fainting and dying from starvation, with civil defense workers releasing images of emaciated bodies. A proposed ceasefire deal, involving Hamas releasing hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and increased aid, is under negotiation, with an Israeli official describing the latest Hamas proposal as "workable." However, significant gaps remain, particularly concerning Israeli troop withdrawal. International pressure mounts as images of starving Palestinians provoke global condemnation.

Israel has restricted aid access primarily through the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a private US firm, resulting in over 1,000 deaths among those seeking aid. The previous UN-led aid system has been largely dismantled, leading to accusations of violating humanitarian principles. Thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv, demanding an end to the blockade. The war in Gaza began on 7 October 2023, after Hamas militants killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and took 250 hostages. More than 59,000 Palestinians have died as a result of Israel's military response.

Impact Statement: The ongoing starvation crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the Israeli blockade and stalled ceasefire negotiations, constitutes a major humanitarian catastrophe demanding immediate international intervention to prevent further loss of life and alleviate suffering.

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) convicted two Central African Republic militia leaders of war crimes and crimes against humanity on Thursday. The leaders, a former top football official and a militiaman nicknamed Rambo, were responsible for attacks on Muslim civilians in 2013 and 2014. Sentences ranged up to 15 years.

Impact Statement: The convictions mark a significant step in holding perpetrators of atrocities in the Central African Republic accountable.

Judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) convicted two Central African Republic militia leaders of war crimes and crimes against humanity on Thursday. The leaders, a former top football official and a militiaman nicknamed Rambo, were responsible for attacks on Muslim civilians in 2013 and 2014. Sentences ranged up to 15 years.

Impact Statement: This verdict marks a significant step in holding perpetrators of atrocities in the Central African Republic accountable.