UK: HS2 High-Speed Rail Project Delayed Again
The British government has confirmed a fresh delay to the HS2 high-speed rail project. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander acknowledged that the original design speed may no longer be achievable, with revised cost projections expected later this year. While a large portion of construction is already complete, officials now plan a phased launch. The £100 billion project has faced persistent public criticism over spending and feasibility.
Middle East: Iran-Israel Tensions Worsen After Hospital Strike
Tensions in the Middle East escalated today following an Iranian missile strike on an Israeli hospital in Beersheba. No casualties were reported, but the attack marked a significant escalation. U.S. President Donald Trump, currently in his second term, has said a decision on whether the United States will intervene militarily will be made within the next two weeks. The region remains on high alert as international leaders call for restraint.
United States: LGBTQ+ Suicide Hotline Facing Closure
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed plans to shut down the LGBTQ+ focused pathway of the 988 suicide prevention hotline. Officials claim the move aims to consolidate resources under the main national system, but mental health advocates argue this change removes a critical lifeline for LGBTQ+ individuals facing discrimination or identity-related crises. The decision has sparked widespread criticism from advocacy groups and civil rights organisations.
Science & Space: SpaceX Starship Explodes During Test Launch
SpaceX suffered a major setback today when its Starship rocket exploded mid-flight during a test launch at the Boca Chica facility in Texas. While no injuries were reported, the explosion is the latest in a series of high-stakes trials aimed at deep-space travel. Elon Musk’s company is expected to revise its timeline for Mars-related missions as investigations into the failure begin.
Asia: Tokyo Hit by Record Heatwave
Japan’s capital is experiencing record-breaking temperatures, with Tokyo reaching 40°C for the second consecutive day. Authorities have issued public health warnings, urging residents to avoid outdoor activity. The extreme weather is part of a broader trend in East Asia, where several cities are experiencing their hottest June on record.
South America: Brazil Confirms Crypto Tax Crackdown
Brazil’s Ministry of Finance has announced that it will intensify enforcement on undeclared cryptocurrency holdings. The crackdown is expected to target both retail and institutional investors, with new regulations requiring real-time wallet reporting for exchanges. Officials cite the rise in crypto adoption and tax evasion as key drivers behind the move.
Africa: Kenya Rolls Out Nationwide AI Curriculum
In a landmark move, Kenya has launched the continent’s first national AI education curriculum. The programme will begin at the secondary school level, aiming to equip students with foundational knowledge in machine learning, ethics, and robotics. Government officials say the initiative is part of a broader plan to position Kenya as an African leader in digital transformation.
