The week so far has been dominated by the Israel-Iran conflict with a shaky ceasefire currently in place. Donald Trump’s remarkable outburst on TV sent shockwaves around the globe, as a leaked US intelligence report suggests the US bombing of Iran did little damage to Iran’s nuclear efforts – Trump denies this.
The NATO summit is currently underway with members committing to spending 5% of GDP and signing security deals with each other amid an increasingly unstable world.
MIDWEEK UPDATE
- ⚡ Florida honeymoon tragedy: A 29‑year‑old man from Colorado died after being struck by a rare “blue‑sky” lightning bolt while on the beach in New Smyrna during his honeymoon.
- 🗽 Zohran Mamdani wins NYC Democratic primary: At 33, the democratic socialist and state assemblyman pulled off a historic upset over Andrew Cuomo with 43.5 % of first‑round votes, becoming the city’s presumptive Democratic nominee.
- 🕊️ US backs Gaza aid distribution: Washington has approved a $30 million grant to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation to help distribute food in Gaza, amid scrutiny over aid access and civilian safety.
🇮🇱🇮🇷 US strikes delay Iran’s nuclear progress: US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites reportedly set back its programme by only a few months, prompting criticism from both Trump and President Biden deeper dive into any of these topics!
EARLY WEEK UPDATES
Donald Trump calls for peace after Iran’s response but pushes new defence deals and a tough immigration plan.- North America is experiencing its first summer heatwave of the year.
🇪🇺 Monday Morning Mood
Monday saw the United States – and the world – reacting to the US strikes on Iran. The president has claimed that the strikes wiped out Iran’s nuclear sites.
📅 Key Cultural & Business Events – This Week
FIFA Club World Cup – 🇺🇸 USA
Capitol Groove Festival – 🇺🇸 Hartford, Connecticut
- North to Shore Festival – 🇺🇸 New Jersey
✍️ Thought of the day
Try a few gentle neck rolls or shoulder shrugs. Let go of any stiffness built up from screen time.
Today, give yourself the gift of movement – you don’t need a gym, just a little time and intention.
🌼 Flower of the Week
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)
Towering spires of bell-shaped flowers in purple, white or pink, beloved by bees. A classic sight along woodland edges and country lanes. Though beautiful, all parts of the foxglove are toxic—historically used to make heart medicine (digitalin).
🐦 Bird of the Week
Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)
With its red face, golden wing flashes and sweet, tinkling call, the goldfinch is a true garden jewel. Look out for flocks (“charms”) in meadows and parks. A delight in gardens and parks—tiny, bright, and with a melodic trill. Once heavily trapped, now thriving again.
Leaked US report says US strikes on Iran did little damage
Recent US strikes on Iran, part of the “Operation Midnight Hammer” campaign alongside Israel, hit Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities. While President Trump hailed it a success, a leaked US report from the US Defence Intelligence Agency counters that, saying the attacks only set Iran’s programme back by a few months. Iran’s enriched uranium and centrifuges reportedly remain largely intact, having been moved underground or to alternative sites.
Commercial satellite imagery shows significant damage at the underground Fordow, but experts caution that the real impact is still unclear. IAEA head Rafael Grossi described the damage as “very significant”, yet remains unable to verify the extent.
Good Read: WTX News report on the US attack on Iran
🔁 Reactions:
- Government (US Defence Intelligence Agency): “Damage is temporary, reset could be reversed in months.”
- Opposition (IAEA’s Rafael Grossi): “The damage is deep, but we lack inspection access to confirm full effects.”
- Viral/Public (nuclear non-proliferation expert): > “These strikes may set Iran back, but they also risk pushing it underground, away from scrutiny.”
📰 Bias Snapshot:
- Reuters/AP/Guardian focus on balanced, fact-based assessment of the military action, expert analysis, and counterclaims to Trump’s rhetoric (reuters.com, reuters.com).
- Time/The Atlantic critiques the strategy, arguing it may backfire by weakening diplomatic avenues and lending momentum to Iran’s nuclear ambitions (theatlantic.com).
- Fox News/New York Post amplify Trump’s claims of total success, downplaying intelligence reports that contradict them (theguardian.com).
📊 Sentiment: Neutral–negative. While the strikes inflicted real damage, intelligence suggests the effect may be reversible—and may even hasten Iran’s quest for autonomy in its nuclear capabilities.
NATO agree to boost defence spending to 5 % of GDP by 2035
NATO ambassadors agreed to boost defence spending and related spending, rising from the longstanding 2 % target to a combined 5 % of GDP by 2035, ahead of next week’s Hague summit. The new commitment consists of 3.5 % on core military expenditure and 1.5 % on infrastructure, cyber and security-related areas such as logistics and intelligence networks. The UK aims to raise its defence budget from ~2.3 % to 3 % by 2034, with expectations to align with the broader goal. Spain secured an opt‑out clause, allowing it to maintain current levels (~2.1 %) amid concerns over the impact on social spending.
Read a WTX News report on the NATO defence spending boost
🔁 Reactions:
- Government (Mark Rutte, NATO Sec‑Gen): “We must rearm at the speed of fear—this sends a clear message of resolve.” (washingtonpost.com)
- Opposition (Spanish PM Sánchez): “5 % would be counter‑productive—it must reflect our economic capacity.” (reuters.com)
- Viral/Public (r/ukpolitics Redditor): “That 1.5 % is gonna be heavily up for debate… energy infrastructure is included.” (reddit.com)
📰 Bias Snapshot:
- Reuters/AP/Sky cover the agreement’s substance, timelines, and national responses factually (apnews.com).
- Financial Times delves into the fiscal and strategic implications, highlighting fiscal constraints, UK reforms and EU defence coordination.
- The Guardian panel voices concern over disparate economic capabilities and warns against overplaying the U.S. or undermining alliance cohesion (theguardian.com).
📊 Sentiment: Neutral–positive.
Iran warns of a response after US airstrikes
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi delivered a stern warning following US airstrikes on Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, calling the attacks a “heinous crime” that risks “everlasting consequences” for international security. Tehran has placed its military on alert, threatened a “proportionate response”, and signalled possible targeting of US bases and strategic shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes marked a watershed shift: US B‑2 bombers joined Israel’s direct campaign against Iran’s nuclear sites, the most significant Western intervention since 1979. Diplomatic efforts for crisis containment have stalled, and Iran has suspended nuclear talks, insisting no diplomacy will resume until it has retaliated.
Read a WTX News report on the US strikes on Iran
🔁 Reactions:
- Government (Araghchi/X): “The US must receive a response, they have crossed a red line under international law.” (time.com)
- Opposition (UN/Western diplomat): “This escalation threatens global security; de‑escalation and renewed diplomacy are urgently needed.”
- Viral/Public (military analyst): “Iran’s threat to target US bases and shipping lanes signals a dangerous widening of the conflict.”
📰 Bias Snapshot:
- Reuters/AP/France 24 provides measured reporting on military readiness, diplomatic fallout, and strategic stakes, focusing on facts (apnews.com).
- Time Magazine and NYPost sharply condemn the US strikes with strong language, underscoring legal and ethical concerns (time.com).
- Al Jazeera and The Guardian emphasise Iran’s framing of the strikes as a violation of sovereignty and the UN Charter, highlighting regional fears (theguardian.com).
📊 Sentiment: Negative–neutral.
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez move wedding reception in Venice after protest threats
Billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez relocated their wedding reception in Venice from the Scuola Grande della Misericordia to the more secure Arsenale complex after activist group “No Space for Bezos” threatened protests, including canal blockades with inflatable crocodiles. The wedding ceremony is scheduled at San Giorgio Maggiore basilica with about 200 guests, including Ivanka Trump. The change follows concerns over security after the US joined Israel’s war in Iran and growing protests against Bezos’s business practices and wealth. Activists plan a “no Bezos, no war” march during the event.
Read a WTX News report on Jeff Bezos and the backlash to his wedding
🔁 Reactions:
- Bezos official spokesperson: “The safety of our guests is paramount; we appreciate Venice’s support.”
- Opposition activist group: “We will not let Bezos escape scrutiny or social responsibility.”
- Viral/Public (Twitter user): > “Big weddings, bigger protests—Venice’s drama isn’t over yet.”
📰 Bias Snapshot:
- The Guardian provides balanced coverage, highlighting security and activism without sensationalism.
- Local Italian media tend to focus on Venice’s disruption and public safety concerns.
- Right-leaning outlets frame the event as a private affair disrupted by political agitation.
📊 Sentiment: Neutral. The report underscores tensions between wealth, public protest, and security in a high-profile event.
Trump demands Iran’s nuclear surrender as Israel strikes escalate
What Happened
The Israel–Iran conflict has escalated sharply after five days of Israeli airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear, military, and energy infrastructure, reportedly killing at least 224 Iranians and wounding around 1,400. Iran responded with missile and drone strikes on Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, causing losses in Israeli civilian areas. Amidst the growing crisis, Donald Trump has demanded an “unconditional surrender” from Iran, warning the U.S. will back Israel’s campaign to eliminate Iran’s nuclear programme—while stopping short of authorising direct strikes on Iran’s Supreme Leader.
What Next
The situation pivots on diplomacy and military posturing: G7 and other Western leaders are pressing for de-escalation, though Trump’s hardline stance complicates consensus. Iran is threatening to exit the Non-Proliferation Treaty and may disrupt global oil flows via the Strait of Hormuz. As regional military assets reposition and emergency evacuations proceed, the risk of broader conflict looms. Any diplomatic breakthrough over Iran’s nuclear ambitions could reshape Middle East stability—but failure may spur further violence and economic reverberations, especially in global energy markets.
A round up of what the Politicians have been doing.
*Denotes wanted for war crimes.
The prime minister will attempt to step up his diplomatic efforts regarding the Middle East crisis this week after Trump unexpectedly took the US into Israel’s war in Iran.
The UK going into war will not be well received at home, and it does not seem like something the PM is willing today.
He continues to call for de-escalation and will hold further.
………………………………
It’s Wednesday and the PM is pushing on with his benefit cuts despite a growing Labour rebellion that could threaten his premiership.
The PM is attending a NATO summit after announcing the UK will commit to spending 5% of GDP on defence and will buy 12 nuclear carrying warplanes.
It’s set to be another busy week for the US president after he involved the United States in Israel’s war in Iran.
Iran has vowed to respond.
The reaction from the US public has been fairly negative – as has the reaction from some within his party.
Trump had promised he would never take the US into foreign wars.
………………………………
We’re only on Wednesday and the US President has declared a ceasefire between Israel and Iran – which fell apart almost immediately, before the president took to TV in a foul-mouthed rant about Israel and Iran. The ceasefire is back on – but shaky at best.
The president is also facing internal backlash after a leaked report suggested the US bombing of Iran did not obliterate Iran’s nuclear sites but instead did a little damage that will set Iran back by a few months. The president has denied this.
- US Democrats
✍️ Quote of the Week
“History is a set of lies agreed upon.” — Napoleon Bonaparte
This week’s news shows how narratives — whether political, digital, or economic — can be engineered, exposed, or reimagined. The truth, as ever, lies between the lines, but there is no doubt, that history belongs to the victor.
🕵️ No, Macron did not hide cocaine on a train to Ukraine
A viral video claiming French President Emmanuel Macron was “caught red-handed” hiding a cocaine bag on a train to Ukraine has been thoroughly debunked by France 24’s fact-checking team. The footage, which showed Macron holding a white pouch before tucking it into his coat, was deceptively edited. The object was a known brand of French facial tissue.
The clip gained traction on platforms like X and TikTok, fuelled by conspiracy influencers. AI analysis of the video confirmed digital tampering.
This story reflects the increasing use of manipulated media to undermine political figures — particularly during periods of tension like Macron’s current Green rebellion.
Key takeaway: In an age of digital warfare, viral misinformation can move faster than diplomacy.
This weeks global cultural & business events provides a round up of the highlights key events taking place around the world. You don’t need a private jet to get around, some are virtual as well.
🌍 Global Cultural & Business Events This Week
- 🇮🇹 La Biennale di Venezia – Venice
- 🇺🇸 G7 Finance Ministers Summit – New York
- 🇺🇳 UN Digital Inclusion Forum – Geneva
- 🇩🇪 Berlin Design Week – Berlin
- 🇺🇸 SXSW EDU Europe – London
🏛️ Political events to keep your eyes on
- NATO: Turkey requests joint monitoring of PKK disbandment
- IMF: Revises 2025 global growth forecast to 3.2%
- UNESCO: Adds Gaza’s Old Port to watchlist of threatened heritage sites
- WHO: Issues early warning for rising dengue clusters in Asia
- World Bank: Launches climate adaptation bond for Sahel nations
FEATURED EVENT – International Summit – Tirana, Albania
Meeting of the European Political Community, 16 May 2025
The sixth meeting of the European Political Community will bring together leaders from across the continent in Tirana, Albania under the theme ‘New Europe in a new world: unity – cooperation – joint action’.
The EU will be represented by the President of the European Council, António Costa, who will co-chair the meeting along with the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama.
🖼️ Art/Culture Highlight – Kunsthaus Zurich: “Surveillance and the Self”
An exhibition tracing the history. A Future for the Past
The exhibition focuses on various – also contradictory – perspectives on the historical context in which the arms manufacturer and patron Emil G. Bührle built up his collection: it highlights the biographies of former owners of individual works, whose sale took place under questionable circumstances, and the question of how a differentiated approach to history can succeed in the immediate present.
The Bührle Collection: art, context, war and conflict.
✍️ Thought of the day
We’ve delveoped this need to move on to the ‘next thing’ standing in one place seems to make one anxious. That may be because of the way we are being engineered, the thirst for more. But the negative impact of that is, we rarely get to enjoy the moment.
When enjoying a meal, a walk in nature, or any other activity, pay attention to the details and fully experience it, just stand still (figuratively) and process what you have done, The next, more is not always better.
✍️ Quote of the Week
“Whatever else may divide us, Europe is our common home; a common fate has linked us through the centuries, and it continues to link us today..” — Leonid I. Brezhnev
This week’s news shows how narratives — whether political, digital, or economic — can be engineered, exposed, or reimagined. The truth, as ever, lies between the lines, but there is no doubt, that history belongs to the victor.
The Supreme Court just stripped thousands of immigrants of their right to due process
Despite longstanding legal safeguards, on 23 June 2025 the US Supreme Court quietly ruled—without any written explanation—that the Trump administration may now fast‑track deportations of non‑citizens to third countries like South Sudan, even when they’ve never been assessed for risk of torture or been given a fresh hearing. In a sharply worded dissent, Justice Sonia Sotomayor (joined by Kagan and Jackson) warned that this decision strips thousands of migrants of crucial due‑process rights and flouts the Convention Against Torture by allowing removals to war‑torn or unstable nations without any meaningful review
The Club World Cup 2025 is in full swing, with matches taking place across the rest of the month. There’s still plenty of tickets available, despite the big-name clubs, so get yourself along for some good old football action.
⚽ Sports
- FIFA Club World Cup – USA (15 June–13 July)
The 32‑team global club tournament is in full swing this week, with matches across 12 cities and group stage action continuing before the knockout rounds.
🎶 Music & Festivals
- Capitol Groove Festival – Hartford, Connecticut (28–29 June)
Showcasing alternative music acts like Bleachers, Khruangbin and Cake. Single-day tickets begin at $118. - North to Shore Festival – New Jersey (Asbury Park, Atlantic City, Newark, mid‑June)
A three‑week celebration of art, tech, music and comedy across multiple locations in New Jersey
🎨 Community & Culture
- Irons Flea Roast & Ox Market – Irons, Michigan (26–29 June)
Family-friendly fair featuring carnival rides ($25–30 wristbands), live music, rodeo and market stalls. Free entry on Thurs and Sun. - ComFest – Columbus, Ohio (27–29 June)
A grassroots, free community festival in Goodale Park celebrating music, arts, local culture and collective action.
🌐 Tech & Industry
- State of the Map US – Boston, Massachusetts (19–21 June)
National gathering of OpenStreetMap contributors and mapping professionals, focusing on mobility and data collaboration.
🗓️ Weekly Snapshot
| Date | Featured Events |
|---|---|
| 19–21 June | State of the Map US (Boston) |
| 26–29 June | Irons Flea Roast & Ox Market |
| 27–29 June | Capitol Groove Festival (Hartford); ComFest (Columbus) |
| Mid-June onward | North to Shore Festival (NJ) |
| Ongoing | FIFA Club World Cup (USA across multiple cities) |
Lessons in leading through crisis from Jacinda Ardern
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shares insights and lessons in leading through crisis, reflecting on the challenges of leadership at the highest levels.
She shares how her empathetic leadership style, shaped by self-doubt, that drove her with the power of transparent communication and leading with trust, not ego, allowed her to move forward decisively.
Here are the Key Takeaways from her interview on Leadership:
1 – Imposter Syndrome Can Be a Leadership Asset
2 – Trust Is Built Through Honesty, Not Perfection
3 – Empathy and Resilience Aren’t Mutually Exclusive
4 – Crisis Is an Opportunity to Advance Policy Goals
5 – Sustainable Leadership Requires Self-Awareness
A bit of travel inspiration from some of our favourite places and best deals.
