Author: News Desk

The US Treasury has issued a stark warning to Oman regarding potential sanctions if the nation aids Iran in establishing a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasised that all countries must reject Iranian attempts to disrupt maritime commerce, asserting Washington’s commitment to free passage in the vital waterway.

Emergency services retrieved the body of a 14-year-old boy from the River Thames near Donnington Bridge, Oxford, on Wednesday. His death, treated as ‘unexplained but not suspicious’ by Thames Valley Police, marks the 11th water-related fatality during the UK’s recent heatwave.

Six people were killed in Remal on Eid night, leading to heightened tensions in Gaza. Despite the violence, markets reopened shortly after, as residents sought to maintain traditions amid the ongoing conflict. The duality of celebration and mourning marked the holiday for many.

Radley, the UK handbag retailer, is set to close multiple stores after being acquired from administration by Gordon Brothers, owner of Poundland. The buyout excludes retail operations, leading to significant job losses. All 21 UK locations, including flagship stores in London and Glasgow, will cease trading by September.

Several countries, including Canada, the Bahamas, and the US, have enacted travel bans in response to the Ebola outbreak linked to the Bundibugyo strain in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. Restrictions aim to contain the disease after over 220 suspected deaths were reported since mid-May.

Republicans in Alabama have requested the US Supreme Court to approve a previously rejected congressional map, citing recent legal changes. They argue that this map, dismissed in 2023 for racial discrimination, is essential for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, despite ongoing legal challenges.

Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2 is in lockdown following a police incident, resulting in significant traffic delays as access points are closed. Passengers have abandoned vehicles to walk to the terminal. Despite the disruptions, flight operations remain unaffected, though some services face delays.

Taiwan’s economy is experiencing rapid growth, with GDP rising 8.63% in 2025 and 13.69% in early 2026, driven largely by semiconductor exports. However, concerns are growing about wealth inequality, as many outside the tech sector feel overlooked amid the AI boom’s benefits.

Knifepoint robberies have decreased by 20% in hotspot areas across the UK, including London, compared to June 2024, according to Home Office data. This decline coincides with National Knife Crime Awareness week and the bi-annual Operation Sceptre, which has led to 243 arrests and the seizure of 159 knives this year.

A group of 19 women and children with alleged ISIL ties has returned to Australia from a Syrian refugee camp, arriving in Sydney and Melbourne. The Australian Federal Police reported no arrests, but investigations are ongoing. The government has stated that anyone involved in criminal activity will face prosecution.