Author: WTX News Editor

Cliff Notes Sir Keir Starmer faced Donald Trump during a televised encounter, navigating significant political differences while managing awkward moments, including Trump’s remarks about London mayor Sadiq Khan. Trump announced pressure on Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire and addressed concerns regarding Gaza, giving Starmer some policy wins despite the tension. The meeting highlighted the power dynamics, with Starmer appearing to endure the encounter for the potential benefits of being associated with the U.S. president. Starmer…

Cliff Notes Thailand and Cambodia have established an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire following deadly border clashes resulting in at least 35 fatalities and the displacement of over 260,000 individuals. Tensions escalated after a May confrontation that killed a Cambodian soldier, leading to military skirmishes near the Ta Muen Thom temple and mutual accusations of artillery attacks on civilian areas. Peace talks facilitated by Malaysia were prompted by international calls for resolution, with both nations agreeing…

Cliff Notes Economic abuse, exemplified by Amy’s experience, restricts victims’ access to finances, leaving them powerless and unable to escape abusive relationships. A survey indicates that 15% of women in the UK have experienced economic abuse within the last year, underscoring the widespread nature of this issue. Government officials acknowledge the urgency of tackling economic abuse, with plans for a new strategy to improve support for victims and prevent further violence against women and girls.…

Cliff Notes Thailand and Cambodia have mutually agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire effective from midnight on 28 July, following several days of deadly border clashes. The ceasefire agreement, reached during discussions mediated by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, aims to restore trust and cooperation between the two nations after intense fighting resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement. Both leaders, Thailand’s Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia’s Hun Manet, expressed hope that this agreement would…

Cliff Notes -Police arrest man on a easyJet flight from Luton A 41-year-old man has been charged following a disturbance on an easyJet flight from London to Glasgow that occurred on Sunday morning. Police Scotland responded to the incident around 8.20 am, confirming the situation was contained without further involvement from other passengers. The man is scheduled to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court today, while counter-terrorism officers are reviewing online videos related to the incident.…

Cliff Notes Shi Yongxin, abbot of the Shaolin Temple, is under investigation for alleged embezzlement and maintaining improper relationships with women, including fathering at least one child. The Buddhist Association of China has revoked his ordination certificate amid claims of violating Buddhist principles and misappropriating temple assets. Shi previously faced similar allegations in 2015 but was exonerated in 2016; he has been a controversial figure, known for commercialising the temple. China’s Shaolin Temple’s ‘CEO monk’…

Cliff Notes – Israel backs down and pauses onslaught in parts of Gaza Gaza latest: Israel pauses fighting in parts of Gaza to allow aid in; Trump complains he got ‘no thanks’ for sending food Close to 100 people were killed while seeking aid in Gaza yesterday, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the enclave. It comes as Israel announced a “one-week scale-up of aid” and declared military operations in three areas of Gaza…

Cliff Notes Firefighters are battling a significant blaze involving 20 tonnes of tyres at multiple factory units in West Bromwich, leading to nearby home evacuations as a precaution. No injuries have been reported, but structural concerns have prompted the presence of a structural engineer at the scene. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with local residents advised to keep doors and windows closed due to smoke. Firefighters tackle huge blaze involving 20…

Cliff Notes The Lionesses emerged as back-to-back European champions, defeating world champions Spain on penalties and avenging their previous World Cup final loss to Spain two years ago. Despite initial doubts and near elimination, the team demonstrated resilience, notably with Michelle Agyemang’s critical contributions in key matches. Lucy Bronze, hindered by injury, and Chloe Kelly, overcoming personal challenges, were instrumental in the team’s success, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad. England started the…

Cliff Notes England’s Lionesses won their second consecutive Euros trophy, defeating Spain 3-1 on penalties, with Chloe Kelly scoring the decisive spot-kick. An open-top bus parade will take place on Tuesday in London, culminating in a stage ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The team’s victory has sparked widespread celebrations, with notable accolades from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and members of the Royal Family, who called for success at the World Cup in 2027. Lionesses praised…

Cliff Notes Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer will focus on Gaza and transatlantic trade during their meeting in Scotland on Monday, with discussions on securing a ceasefire in the Middle East. Trump attributed the failure of ceasefire negotiations to Hamas, while Starmer aims to strengthen UK-US trade ties, seeking to lower tariffs on imports like steel. Facing pressure to align with France on Palestine recognition, Starmer is navigating a diplomatic path between the UK’s…

Cliff Notes A 31-year-old man, Majid Masoud Saad, has been charged following a police chase in Essex, where he allegedly drove at speeds exceeding 150mph. Charges against Saad include drink driving, dangerous driving, and failing to stop for police; he is due to appear in court on 4 September. The chase began with London’s Metropolitan Police and involved various tactics by Essex Police to eventually stop Saad’s vehicle. Man charged after 150mph police chase on…

Cliff Notes The US and EU have finalised a significant trade deal, with President Trump declaring it the “biggest deal ever made,” expected to benefit the automotive and agricultural sectors. The agreement includes a 15% tariff on EU goods entering the US, a reduction from the previously threatened 30%, alongside substantial EU investments in the US Economy. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen stated that the deal will enhance stability and predictability for businesses…

Cliff Notes Islamic State-backed militants, suspected to be from the Allied Democratic Forces, attacked a Catholic church in eastern Congo, resulting in a death toll of at least 34, with numerous others wounded or missing. Local officials condemned the violence, highlighting the presence of security forces in the area and calling for urgent military intervention to prevent further attacks. The ADF, which has historical ties to the Islamic State, has been responsible for thousands of…

Cliff Notes Thai and Cambodian leaders will meet in Malaysia to negotiate a ceasefire following intense cross-border fighting, supported by US diplomatic intervention from Donald Trump and Marco Rubio. The conflict has resulted in at least 34 fatalities, including civilians, and has displaced over 200,000 people, raising urgent calls for immediate de-escalation from both sides. Despite the agreement for talks, accusations of ongoing shelling indicate persistent tensions as historical disputes over border regions remain unresolved.…

Cliff Notes Donald Trump assessed the likelihood of a new trading relationship with the EU as “50-50” during a golf outing at his Turnberry resort in Scotland. The US is set to impose significant tariffs on EU exports, including increases of up to 30% on various goods starting 1 August. Trump is scheduled to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for discussions on trade, following which he will engage with UK Labour leader…

Cliff Notes Parts of Athens, particularly Kryoneri, have been evacuated due to over 50 wildfires igniting within 24 hours, exacerbated by extreme temperatures of up to 44°C and strong winds. At least five individuals have required hospital treatment for burns or smoke inhalation, while almost 150 firefighters are deployed, supported by aerial firefighting resources. Wildfires are becoming increasingly common in Greece, with recent reports of damaging blazes also affecting neighbouring countries like Albania and Turkey.…

Cliff Notes Four individuals, including a husband and wife, have been arrested for allegedly abusing nine children in Florida, who were reportedly kept in cages and mistreated. Officials state that the adopted children were subjected to harsher treatment than their biological siblings, lacking basic knowledge of their identities. An investigation was prompted by a report from a church member, revealing severe abuse, including physical punishment and coercion to conceal their circumstances. Florida: Arrests after children…

Cliff Notes Israel has announced a “tactical pause” in fighting in three specific areas of Gaza to tackle the escalating humanitarian crisis, effective from 10am to 8pm local time. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) will establish secure routes for aid delivery and has resumed airdrops of supplies, including food essentials, although the UN warns this approach is inadequate. Accusations of starvation in Gaza have been made against Israeli authorities, with various figures, including Bob Geldof,…

Cliff Notes The Lionesses have evolved from underachievers to consistent finalists, now facing Spain in a highly anticipated rematch after their World Cup defeat last year. Captain Leah Williamson emphasises the significance of retaining the European Championship trophy, reflecting the team’s awareness of their impact on the nation. Both teams acknowledge the importance of their encounter for women’s football growth, with Spain’s recent challenges highlighting the ongoing struggle for respect and equality. Women’s Euros final:…

Cliff Notes Michigan: 11 people stabbed in US supermarket – with six in critical condition | US News At least 11 people have been stabbed at a Walmart supermarket in Michigan, with six in a critical condition. Officials say a suspect is in custody – and at this stage, it is believed the attack was a “random act” that involved a folding-style knife near the checkout area. Sheriff Michael Shea told reporters: “Eleven is 11…

Cliff Notes Bob Geldof accuses Israeli authorities of dishonesty regarding the situation in Gaza, asserting there is widespread starvation linked to their actions. His statements follow claims from Israeli officials that Hamas is responsible for the suffering of Gazans, which Geldof refutes as a false equivalence. Medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières reports alarming levels of malnutrition in Gaza, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis amidst ongoing conflict. Bob Geldof accuses Israeli authorities of ‘lying’ about starvation…

Cliff Notes Police are offering a £20,000 reward for information regarding the fatal stabbing of 20-year-old Imran Maroof in Newham on 27 July 2024. A 16-year-old was charged with murder, but the case against him was discontinued as the investigation continued. Authorities stress the importance of community assistance, urging anyone with information to contact them or report anonymously via Crimestoppers. Police offer £20k reward one year after fatal stabbing of 20-year-old in Newham | UK…

Cliff Notes Protests erupted at the Brook Hotel near Norwich, triggered by the establishment’s use for housing asylum seekers, reflecting a growing trend across the UK. Tensions escalated when a pro-immigration protester confronted a larger anti-immigration group, resulting in a chaotic clash with police. Local sentiments voiced concerns over resources allocated to asylum seekers, with some attendees expressing desire for regulatory oversight on immigration. There seems no end in sight to asylum hotel protests -…

Cliff Notes Anti-Trump protests occurred in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, but Turnberry remained largely free of demonstrators due to heavy security measures and remoteness. Protesters voiced strong opposition to Trump’s visit, citing issues such as climate change denial and his recent conviction for falsifying business records. Public funds were allocated for an upcoming golf tournament at Trump’s Aberdeenshire links, eliciting criticism from local politicians regarding the appropriateness of taxpayer support. Donald Trump able to enjoy round…