Belgium will ban sales of disposable e-cigarettes in a first for the EU

Heavy rain in northern China has resulted in at least 30 fatalities and the evacuation of over 80,000 people, particularly in Beijing and its surrounding areas, with authorities issuing a second-highest rainstorm warning. President Xi Jinping has emphasized urgent disaster response efforts, and the government allocated 350 million yuan for relief efforts across affected regions. Want More Context? 🔎

In the first half of 2025, global losses from natural disasters, including the Los Angeles wildfires and severe thunderstorms, reached over $131 billion, slightly lower than the previous year but above long-term averages. The wildfires alone accounted for $53 billion in losses, with experts attributing the increasing severity of such events to climate change and emphasizing the need for preventive measures in high-risk areas to mitigate future damages. Want More Context? 🔎

Aid agencies warn that Israel's air drops into Gaza are a "grotesque distraction" from the worsening starvation crisis, with over 100 organizations highlighting mass starvation risks. Despite Israel's military claims of airdropping aid and establishing humanitarian corridors, experts stress that traditional land routes would be more effective for delivering necessary supplies. Want More Context? 🔎

Science Secretary Peter Kyle accused Nigel Farage of siding with online predators, referencing the Online Safety Act, which aims to protect children by introducing age verification for adult content. Farage condemned the remarks as "disgusting," while his party argues the act does not enhance child safety, with a petition for its repeal amassing over 380,000 signatures. Want More Context? 🔎

A gunman, identified as 27-year-old Shane D. Tamura from Las Vegas, opened fire in a Midtown Manhattan office tower, killing four people, including NYPD officer Didarul Islam, and wounding another before taking his own life. The incident caused widespread panic, with nearby buildings on lockdown as authorities responded to the active shooter situation. Want More Context? 🔎

Hundreds gathered in Yokosuka's Kurihama area for a summer festival blending sacred rituals and seaside festivities, featuring a portable shrine, or mikoshi, paraded from Sumiyoshi Shrine. The event culminated with priests blessing the community at the beach and praying for safe travels before the mikoshi was returned to the shrine until next summer. Want More Context? 🔎