The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Africa's largest hydroelectric dam, is nearing inauguration after more than a decade of construction funded entirely by Ethiopia at a cost of nearly $5 billion. The dam, built on the Blue Nile (Abay), is intended to significantly increase Ethiopia's electricity generation capacity, currently serving only 55% of the population, and to boost its economy. The GERD is expected to generate approximately 5,150 megawatts, doubling Ethiopia's energy output.

Ethiopia views the dam as crucial for its socioeconomic development and poverty reduction, aiming to meet the energy needs of its 130 million people (projected to reach 200 million by 2050) and to export energy to neighboring countries. The project also aims to mitigate flooding and water loss downstream. However, some lower riparian countries object, citing a 1929 colonial-era water-sharing agreement between Britain and Egypt, which Ethiopia was not party to.

Ethiopia argues that the Nile is a shared resource and advocates for a cooperative framework, referencing the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement, already ratified by several countries including Ethiopia, for equitable water usage, rejecting the colonial-era agreement as outdated and unjust.

Impact Statement: The GERD's completion will significantly impact Ethiopia's energy production and economic development, but its impact on relations with downstream Nile Basin countries remains a point of contention due to differing interpretations of water rights and historical agreements.

Following five days of intense fighting, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to a ceasefire on Monday. The agreement, brokered by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, came after a meeting between Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet in Kuala Lumpur. The conflict, which involved the use of rocket launchers, fighter jets, and drones, resulted in at least four civilian deaths and ten injuries in Surin province, Thailand, alone. Thousands of civilians have sought refuge in evacuation camps.

Accounts from those who fled the fighting describe intense and sustained bombardments, with some civilians taking shelter in bunkers. A Thai soldier injured in the fighting near the Ta Moan Thom temple described heavy weapons fire and a significant number of Cambodian soldiers. International pressure, including from the U.S., contributed to the ceasefire.

Impact Statement: The ceasefire brings a temporary end to the deadliest conflict between Thailand and Cambodia in over a decade, offering relief to thousands of displaced civilians and potentially averting further escalation.

A pro-Ukraine hacking group, Silent Crow, claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on Russian national carrier Aeroflot, resulting in widespread flight cancellations. The group, reportedly collaborating with Belarusian group Cyber Partisans, claimed on Telegram to have compromised and destroyed Aeroflot's IT infrastructure, databases, and employee computers, threatening to release the personal data of all Aeroflot passengers. The Russian prosecutor's office confirmed a hacker attack caused the disruption to Aeroflot's information system and launched a criminal investigation. The transport ministry stated that passengers would be transferred to other carriers. Cancellations impacted primarily domestic flights but also affected routes to Belarus, Armenia, and Tashkent.

While Silent Crow's claims remain unverified, the incident caused significant disruption, affecting tens of thousands of passengers. The attack highlights the ongoing cyber warfare between pro-Ukrainian and pro-Russian groups since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin described the situation as "worrying."

Impact Statement: The attack demonstrates the escalating cyber conflict surrounding the war in Ukraine and its potential to disrupt critical civilian infrastructure.

A pro-Ukraine hacking group, Silent Crow, claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on Russian national carrier Aeroflot, resulting in cancelled flights and system failures. The group, reportedly working with Belarusian group Cyber Partisans, claimed on Telegram to have "completely compromised and destroyed" Aeroflot's IT infrastructure, including databases and employee computers, and threatened to release passenger data. The Russian prosecutor's office confirmed a hacker attack and opened a criminal investigation. The transport ministry stated that affected passengers would be transferred to other carriers. Cancellations primarily impacted domestic flights, but also affected routes to Belarus, Armenia, and Tashkent.

While the Kremlin described the situation as "worrying," the extent of the damage remains unclear. The BBC has not verified Silent Crow's claims, and such groups are known to exaggerate their successes. The incident highlights the ongoing cyber warfare between pro-Ukraine and pro-Russia groups since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Impact Statement: The attack caused significant disruption to Aeroflot's operations, affecting tens of thousands of passengers and demonstrating the potential for cyberattacks to impact major companies and civilian populations.

Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire on [date], ending five days of fighting that killed at least 33 people and displaced tens of thousands. The ceasefire, announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim alongside the Thai and Cambodian counterparts, was to take effect at midnight. Initial Thai rejection of Malaysian mediation was overcome after US President Donald Trump linked tariff negotiations to a cessation of hostilities. The conflict stemmed from a long-standing border dispute, escalating after incidents in May and a Thai soldier losing a leg in a landmine explosion. Both sides exchanged fire, with each blaming the other for initiating the conflict.

The ceasefire agreement involves Malaysia and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) monitoring the situation. Both countries must agree to withdraw their reinforced armies from the border and accept independent monitoring to prevent further clashes. While the ceasefire was brokered by Malaysia, US President Trump's ultimatum regarding tariffs played a significant role in securing the agreement. Both countries heavily rely on US exports and face high tariffs without a trade deal. Despite the ceasefire, deep mistrust remains between the armies, and significant nationalist sentiment has been stirred.

Impact Statement: The ceasefire significantly reduces the immediate humanitarian crisis and averts further escalation of the conflict. However, maintaining lasting peace requires addressing underlying border disputes and fostering trust between the two nations.

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire following five days of border clashes that resulted in at least 33 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands. The ceasefire, announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim alongside the Thai and Cambodian leaders, is to take effect at midnight. The agreement follows mediation efforts by Malaysia, prompted by Thailand's initial refusal and pressure from US President Donald Trump, who linked the conflict to ongoing trade negotiations. Tensions escalated in May after a Cambodian soldier was killed, leading to border closures, import bans, and the expulsion of ambassadors.

Shells and rockets continued to fall in both countries even as the peace talks concluded. Malaysia and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) will monitor the ceasefire. Both Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed their commitment to the agreement, thanking the US and China for their involvement in the negotiations. The withdrawal of troops and the cooling of tensions will take time, given the significant loss of life and displacement. The Thai military reported evacuating nearly 140,000 civilians, while Cambodian state media reported the relocation of approximately 135,000 people.

Impact Statement: The ceasefire marks a crucial step towards de-escalation, but lasting peace requires addressing the underlying border dispute and fostering trust between the two nations.

Three suspected rebels were killed in a firefight with Indian security forces on Monday in Dachigam National Park, approximately 30km east of Srinagar, in Indian-administered Kashmir. The Indian army stated that “three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight,” adding that the operation was ongoing. Indian media reports linked the slain individuals to the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 deaths, though this has not been independently verified. A police officer, speaking anonymously to AFP, described the deceased as “foreigners.”

The incident occurred near the Amarnath Hindu shrine, currently hosting over 350,000 pilgrims. The Resistance Front (TRF), accused of the Pahalgam attack, was recently designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States. India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted that India ended its military conflict with Pakistan in May, independently of any US pressure, and that all objectives had been achieved. This contradicts US President Donald Trump's claim of mediating a ceasefire. The conflict involved the use of fighter jets, missiles, and drones, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides. Pakistan claimed to have downed five Indian planes; India's highest-ranking general acknowledged "initial losses in the air."

Impact Statement: The ongoing conflict in Kashmir continues to affect regional stability and international relations. The incident highlights the persistent security challenges in the region.

B’Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights, two prominent Israeli human rights organizations, released reports on Monday accusing Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The reports detail widespread targeting of civilians based solely on their identity as Palestinians, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, mass displacement, starvation, and the destruction of essential infrastructure, including healthcare and education systems. The groups assert that Israel’s Western allies share responsibility for enabling this alleged genocide.

Yuli Novak of B’Tselem stated that the attacks constitute a “clear, intentional attack on civilians in order to destroy a group,” while Guy Shalev of Physicians for Human Rights highlighted the destruction of Gaza's healthcare system as a key component of the alleged genocide, citing Article 2c of the Genocide Convention. Both organizations emphasized the legal and moral obligation of Western nations to take stronger action to halt the alleged atrocities. Israel denies these accusations, framing the conflict as self-defense following Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

The reports cite genocidal statements by Israeli leaders, the pattern of attacks, and the extensive documentation of civilian casualties as evidence of intent. The organizations warn of the potential for the genocide to spread from Gaza to the West Bank, where violence has also escalated since October 7, 2023.

Impact Statement: The accusations of genocide, made by highly respected Israeli human rights organizations, will significantly increase international pressure on Israel and its Western allies to address the situation in Gaza and the West Bank.

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced following mediation talks in Putrajaya, Malaysia. The ceasefire is to begin at midnight local time on Monday. At least 35 people have been killed and over 270,000 displaced due to the worst fighting between the neighboring countries in over a decade. Clashes continued into Monday morning, hours before negotiations commenced.

The talks, hosted at Ibrahim's residence, included the ambassadors to Malaysia from the US and China. Ibrahim, chair of the regional bloc ASEAN, stated that both Cambodia and Thailand reached a common understanding on the ceasefire.

Impact Statement: The ceasefire could significantly reduce civilian casualties and displacement in the border region.

Following days of deadly border clashes that resulted in at least 35 deaths and approximately 200,000 displaced people, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire. The agreement, announced on Monday by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim following mediation talks in Malaysia, stipulates an immediate ceasefire effective midnight, July 28th, 2025. The fighting began after a landmine explosion along the border, with each country blaming the other. Both countries had previously recalled their ambassadors and Thailand closed border crossings.

Acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet agreed to work towards restoring normalcy in their relationship. Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that the ceasefire would set a condition for moving forward in bilateral discussions. The ceasefire initiative was supported by ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim, with China and the United States also offering assistance in negotiations.

Impact Statement: The ceasefire is a significant step towards de-escalation and potentially resolving the long-running border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, effective midnight on July 28, 2025. The agreement follows days of deadly border clashes between the two Southeast Asian nations over contested border temples. At least 34 people were killed and approximately 200,000 displaced during the fighting.

Impact Statement: The ceasefire is expected to de-escalate the immediate conflict and potentially pave the way for further diplomatic negotiations to resolve the long-standing border dispute.

UN aid chief Tom Fletcher stated that yesterday's aid deliveries to Gaza were merely a "drop in the ocean" compared to the massive needs of the civilian population. While 600-700 aid trucks entered Gaza daily during a previous 42-day ceasefire, only approximately 120 trucks were reported yesterday by Israel (despite the UN reporting over 100). Fletcher emphasized that the next few days are "make or break," requiring significantly more aid and faster delivery. He highlighted that looting occurred as aid crossed the border, and that even the current aid is insufficient to address the widespread starvation affecting hundreds of thousands of people. The UN can deliver aid to everyone within weeks if granted access and security permits.

Fletcher expressed concern regarding the humanitarian pauses implemented by Israel, estimating their duration to be "a week or so," which is inadequate given the unfolding crisis. He stressed the need for a sustained aid effort lasting weeks or months, along with a ceasefire to alleviate the situation. He also noted the UN's methods for aid distribution, working with local communities to ensure aid reaches those most in need while preventing armed groups, including Hamas, from accessing it, contrasted with concerns about the Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's distribution methods. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported alarming levels of malnutrition, with 63 malnutrition-related deaths in July 2025 alone (including 24 children under five), and that nearly one in five children under five in Gaza City is acutely malnourished. The World Food Programme (WFP) added that 90,000 women and children urgently need malnutrition treatment, with one in three people going without food for days.

Impact Statement: The insufficient aid flow to Gaza poses an immediate threat of widespread famine and a major humanitarian crisis, demanding urgent international action and a sustained commitment to aid delivery.

A landslide in a village near Chengde city, Hebei province, China, on Monday, caused by heavy rainfall, killed four people and left eight missing. Authorities relocated over 4,400 people in Beijing's Miyun district due to flash floods and landslides, with images showing submerged buildings and vehicles. Electricity cuts affected more than 10,000 in the area. The Central Meteorological Observatory forecasts continued heavy rainfall for the next three days across northern China. Flood warnings have been issued in 11 provinces and regions, with Beijing issuing its highest-level flood alert. The national emergency management department dispatched a team to Hebei, and Shanxi province also issued flash flood warnings. The National Development and Reform Commission allocated 50 million yuan ($7 million USD) for disaster relief in Hebei.

Impact Statement: The widespread flooding and landslides in northern China have caused significant loss of life and displacement, highlighting the increasing risks associated with extreme weather events in the region.

Fighting between Thailand and Cambodia along their disputed border continued into a fifth day, just hours before scheduled ceasefire talks between the two nations' leaders. At least 35 people have been killed, and more than 270,000 displaced. Thai acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed skepticism about Cambodia's good faith, while Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated the talks aim to achieve an immediate ceasefire. Both sides traded accusations of attacks and troop deployments near the contested Ta Muen Thom and Ta Kwai temples. The talks, brokered by Malaysia and supported by the United States and China, are scheduled to begin in Kuala Lumpur.

Colonel Richa Suksuwanon, a Thai army spokesperson, reported ongoing fighting, including gunfire near Samrong, Cambodia. Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence spokeswoman Maly Socheata accused Thailand of using heavy weapons and aircraft to attack Cambodian territory. Despite initial reports of a peace deal, Malaysian officials have been hesitant to confirm details. The high death toll and displacement numbers may motivate leaders to pursue a peaceful resolution. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed US involvement in the peace efforts.

Impact Statement: The ongoing conflict poses a significant humanitarian crisis and threatens regional stability. The success of the ceasefire talks will determine the immediate future of the border conflict.

Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels, a group with ties to the Islamic State group, attacked a Catholic church in Komanda, northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on Sunday, killing at least 43 people, including nine children. The attack, which also involved burning nearby houses and shops, ended a period of relative calm in the Ituri region bordering Uganda. MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in the country, condemned the attack, stating it violated human rights and international humanitarian law.

The Congolese army described the event as a "large-scale massacre," attributing it to the ADF's desire to spread terror. The ADF, originating in Uganda, has a long history of violence in eastern Congo, where numerous armed groups compete for control of natural resources. A truce between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group, reached on July 19, preceded the recent attack.

Impact Statement: The attack highlights the ongoing instability and violence in eastern Congo, fueled by armed groups vying for control of resources and causing significant humanitarian suffering.

India, led by captain Shubman Gill, battled to a draw against England in the fourth test at Old Trafford, Manchester. Despite losing two early wickets in their second innings, India batted for over five sessions, losing only two more wickets to reach 425-4. Gill scored a century (his fourth of the series), while Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar also achieved unbeaten centuries. The series now stands at 2-1 to England, with the final test at The Oval in London.

Gill praised his team's performance, stating to the BBC, “This is no less than a win for us, given we were around 300 runs off the lead. Our batsman put on a great display.” England captain Ben Stokes acknowledged India's resilience, commenting, "Another hard-fought test... We set the game up really well... it didn’t just pan out the way we wanted.” Stokes also noted his own physical limitations during the match.

Despite England's initial advantage and opportunities, India successfully defended their position, securing the draw. This marked the first non-rain affected draw for England since Brendon McCullum became coach in 2022.

Impact Statement: The draw keeps the test series competitive, setting the stage for a decisive final match in London.

Over 100 people, including 80 children, have died in Gaza from starvation and malnutrition. The deaths, which include 21 children in just 72 hours, are attributed to Israel's ongoing siege, blocking essential aid from entering the territory. A humanitarian worker reported children expressing a desire to die to escape the hunger. The World Health Organization has described the starvation as "man-made."

The situation is characterized by a severe shortage of food, medicine, shelter, and clean water. While Israel has implemented temporary "tactical pauses" in military operations to allow limited aid access, these measures are deemed insufficient to alleviate the crisis. Critics describe the ongoing situation as genocide, ethnic cleansing, and mass punishment, citing various examples of civilian suffering.

The impact statement is the ongoing starvation and deaths in Gaza are a direct result of the Israeli siege and blockade. The international community's response has been criticized as inadequate and ineffective in halting the crisis, leading to widespread condemnation.