Europe’s ‘exceptional’ heat wave closes schools, prompts health alerts

Businesses in Prince Rupert, a small town in northern British Columbia, are sounding the alarm over recent federal cuts to immigration and work permits. They argue these changes could devastate the local economy, with one official warning the town might "collapse" without enough workers to keep businesses afloat.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just bureaucratic red tape—it’s about real people and a town’s survival. Prince Rupert relies heavily on immigrant labor to fill jobs, and if those workers disappear, businesses could shutter, leaving the community in crisis. It’s a stark example of how national policy decisions can hit small towns hardest.

Hong Kong's public universities are aiming to attract more high-caliber international students to boost campus diversity, as over 70% of their current non-local undergrads come from mainland China. Education Secretary Christine Choi Yuk-lin mentioned this push while also highlighting that four local universities have extended 36 offers to students impacted by recent U.S. visa policy changes.

Editor’s Note: Hong Kong is trying to balance its student demographics and strengthen its global academic appeal—especially as geopolitical shifts (like U.S. visa policies) create opportunities to draw talent elsewhere. For local campuses, this could mean a richer mix of perspectives, but it also reflects the city’s tightrope walk between mainland ties and international outreach.

After the U.S. bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities, North Korea might be even more convinced that giving up its own nukes would leave it vulnerable—just like Iran. Experts say this move likely reinforced Pyongyang’s belief that nuclear weapons are their best defense, especially as they grow closer to allies like Russia and China.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about Iran or North Korea—it’s about trust. If the U.S. attacks a country for pursuing nukes, others watching (like North Korea) will double down on theirs. That makes future disarmament talks way harder and raises the stakes for global security. Basically, actions speak louder than words, and Pyongyang is listening.

The Prime Minister's sudden reversal on welfare policy has stunned observers, with critics calling it another example of knee-jerk governance. The move not only undermines claims of stability but also hands Labour MPs fresh ammunition to attack the government’s credibility.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about a policy U-turn—it’s a sign of deeper disarray in the government. When leaders backtrack abruptly, it fuels public distrust and gives opponents an easy win. For voters, it raises the question: if they can’t stick to their own plans, how can they run the country?

Former President Donald Trump claims Israel has agreed to terms for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza and is pressuring Hamas to accept the deal, warning the militant group that the situation will deteriorate if they refuse. He framed this as a "final proposal," mediated by Qatar and Egypt, following what he described as productive talks with Israeli officials.

Editor’s Note: While any hint of progress toward a ceasefire is noteworthy, Trump’s statement—made via social media—lacks official confirmation from Israel or Hamas. Given the fragile state of negotiations and the high stakes for civilians in Gaza, this could either signal a potential breakthrough or just another twist in a long, bloody conflict. Either way, it keeps the spotlight on international efforts to pause the fighting, even temporarily.