Summary
Tensions are rising in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran’s Revolutionary Guards threaten to close the strait until the US blockade is lifted, according to the New York Times. Meanwhile, Australia’s most-decorated soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, has vowed to fight war crime charges, as reported by the BBC. In Europe, Bulgaria is holding its eighth election in five years, and a French peacekeeper was killed in southern Lebanon. These are just a few of the major news stories from around the world, which are summarized below.
US & Middle East
According to the New York Times, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they were closing the Strait of Hormuz until the US blockade is lifted. Two ships reported being hit as they tried to pass through the strait. The NYT reports that this move is a significant escalation of tensions in the region. Additionally, Pope Leo responded to a presidential attack, saying that some of his statements during his Africa trip have been misconstrued, as reported by the New York Times.
Europe
The BBC reports that a French peacekeeper was killed in southern Lebanon, with President Macron blaming the attack on Hezbollah. The Iran-backed armed group denies any connection to the incident. In Bulgaria, the country is holding its eighth election in five years, with Bulgarians yearning for a more prosperous life, according to the New York Times. In the UK, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is facing calls to resign over a scandal, and will address MPs on Monday, as reported by the BBC.
Asia & Australia
The BBC reports that Australia’s most-decorated soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, has vowed to fight war crime charges. Roberts-Smith has been charged with five counts of the war crime of murder. In other news from Australia, the Sussexes’ four-day tour of the country appears to have fallen flat with some Australians, as reported by the BBC.
Other News
The BBC also reports on various other stories, including a quirky holiday trend, with Montenegro and Albania rising in popularity for Britons seeking a holiday away from tourist traps. Additionally, a new charity has been launched to remember Queen Elizabeth 100 years since her birth. In Mexico, the president has denied a “diplomatic crisis” with Spain over a row about the conquest of Mexico, as reported by the BBC. Sources: New York Times, BBC, BBC
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