WORLD

China has introduced strict new regulations on AI companion apps, aiming to curb emotional dependency while addressing broader social concerns including its declining birth rate.

The EU fined AliExpress €550 million for failing to prevent counterfeit and unsafe products on its platform, citing systemic compliance failures under the Digital Services Act.

The US Supreme Court will decide if Alaska can keep a pilot's $95,000 Cessna over a passenger's six-pack, a case that could limit civil forfeiture at traffic stops nationwide.

Social Security's final July payment lands on 22 July. SSI recipients get two cheques this month, while 452,000 seniors in student loan default face a 15% garnishment threat.

A ferry capsized off Guyana's coast, leaving 27 dead and 83 missing. Rescue efforts are hampered by passenger list inaccuracies, with investigations into potential negligence underway.

Federal agents are investigating an attack on a Manhattan government complex by a former soldier, raising concerns over tensions with federal enforcement agencies.

Trump has pledged that Israeli PM Netanyahu will not be arrested in US, amid debates over enforcing an ICC warrant. Legal and diplomatic complexities surround the issue as Netanyahu plans US visit.

A lone attacker ignited a fire at NYC's 26 Federal Plaza, raising security concerns. The incident has sparked a federal investigation into potential anti-government motives.

Jared Kushner's high-profile appearance at the World Cup with Donald Trump draws attention to his controversial $1.4bn Sazan Island resort project, amid protests and a corruption probe in Albania.

New York sculptor Sergio Furnari's £74,000 statue of Charlie Kirk faces financial struggles and personal setbacks, raising doubts about the project's success and potential curse.

Andrew Arrabaca, a former US Army soldier, is accused of setting fire to a Manhattan federal building. The incident is under investigation as an anti-government attack.

Darline Graham, initially appointed to complete her late brother's Senate term, announces her candidacy for a full term, backed by Donald Trump's endorsement, reshaping the 2026 Republican primary.

A ticketing error at San Francisco International Airport led to a viral confrontation involving a United Airlines employee threatening to call ICE, sparking fears among immigrant families about flying in the US.

Khalil al-Hayya's election as Hamas leader signals a firm stance against disarmament, complicating US-led peace efforts in Gaza. His leadership style and reputation may influence future negotiations.

An Alaska Airlines flight from Rome to Seattle declared an emergency due to a mechanical issue, forcing a return to Rome after dumping fuel over the Atlantic. No injuries were reported.

The FDA's retraction of a cyclospora-positive lettuce sample linked to Taylor Farms has reignited confusion and scrutiny over a significant political donation, leaving the outbreak's source unresolved.

Gold's record highs, driven by global economic uncertainty, are intensifying illegal mining in Brazil's Amazon, threatening indigenous lands.

July 22 Social Security payments arrive Wednesday, but some retirees may receive $0 because of the retirement earnings test.

Two US soldiers, including 19-year-old Pvt Isabella Gonzales, were killed in an Iranian missile attack on a Jordanian base, highlighting the escalating US-Iran conflict and sparking political debate.

A man with airsoft rifles set a fire outside a Manhattan federal building, described by the FBI as 'anti-government attack'. The incident is being investigated by the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force.

A controversial memo suggests the FBI may stop investigating ICE shootings, raising concerns about accountability and civil rights. The government denies any change, but the debate continues.

Country singer Bryan Andrews claims his outspoken criticism of Trump has led to professional setbacks and personal safety concerns.

Javier Bardem used Spain's World Cup win to highlight political issues, calling Gaza a 'full genocide' and discussing the symbolic clash between Spain and Argentina over Israel-Palestine tensions.

Dr. Steven Greer accuses the Trump administration of withholding significant UFO evidence, alleging a deliberate slow release of inconsequential material to obscure the truth.

A US State Department report accuses Cuba of a long-term campaign to infiltrate American institutions, support left-wing militancy, and wage a 'revolution against Western civilisation.'

Millions of US Supplemental Security Income recipients will see no payment in August 2026, as Social Security brings the deposit forward to 31 July because 1 August falls on a Saturday.

Spain's 2026 World Cup victory was overshadowed by Donald Trump's unexpected presence on the podium, sparking widespread discussion and social media buzz.

Senator John Fetterman criticises NYC Mayor Mamdani for considering legal action on ICC warrant against Israeli PM Netanyahu, highlighting divisions among Democrats over Israel and international law.

ICE faces intense scrutiny after two fatal shootings in July, prompting the agency to implement body cameras nationwide to increase transparency and accountability during enforcement operations.