The revelation that Abdul Shokoor Ezedi, the suspect in the Clapham chemical attack, was granted asylum despite a conviction for sexual assault has sparked concerns about the effectiveness of the UK's asylum system. Ezedi, who arrived in the UK in 2016, was given asylum in 2020 after an appeal, claiming conversion to Christianity. Critics question the decision-making process, especially regarding individuals convicted of serious crimes. Immigration lawyer Monira Hussain criticizes the system, calling for reforms and targeted deportation policies for convicted criminals unable to return to their home countries. The case highlights broader challenges within the UK immigration system.

Yemen's Houthi rebels have pledged a retaliatory response following US and British airstrikes, asserting that the attacks "will not deter us." The joint strikes targeted 36 Houthi sites across 13 locations in Yemen, aimed at curbing the rebels' repeated assaults on international shipping in the Red Sea. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the strikes' goal to disrupt Houthi capabilities. While specific targets weren't disclosed, Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that areas including Sana'a were hit. Saree affirmed their commitment to supporting Gaza despite the attacks and warned of impending retaliation against the airstrikes.

UK PM Rishi Sunak revealed his childhood experiences with racism and parental pressure to speak without an accent in an interview with ITV News. Sunak recounted instances of racism directed at him and his siblings, expressing his determination to ensure his children don't face the same. His parents sent him for extra drama lessons to help him "fit in." Sunak emphasized the importance of combating racism and spoke about the lack of ethnic minority role models in leadership positions. The interview, part of the upcoming program "Rishi Sunak: Up Close – Tonight," offers insight into Sunak's personal experiences and upbringing.

Forest fires ravaging Chile's Valparaíso region have claimed the lives of at least 51 people, marking the country's deadliest fire incident. President Gabriel Boric declared a state of emergency, mobilizing all available resources to combat the crisis. The health ministry issued a health alert in Valparaíso, suspending elective surgeries and deploying temporary field hospitals. Rescue efforts are hindered by the intensity of the fires, with Interior Minister Carolina Tohá warning of potentially higher casualties. The government urges people to avoid affected areas as firefighters and military personnel battle to contain the blaze. Last year's deadly wildfires suggest an escalating trend in Chile's fire emergencies.          

Iran criticizes the US airstrikes on Iraq and Syria, labeling them a "strategic mistake" after retaliatory strikes hit 85 targets in the region. The White House attributes last week's drone attack on a US military base, which claimed three American soldiers' lives, to an Iran-backed militia group. Iraq and Syria express concerns over the consequences of the strikes on regional stability, with Iraq condemning them as a violation of sovereignty. Meanwhile, President Biden emphasizes the US's selective approach to further strikes while aiming to avoid conflict. The situation escalates amidst heightened tensions, prompting calls for a UN Security Council meeting.

A recent report from The Wall Street Journal suggests that associates of Elon Musk, including board members and directors of his companies, are purportedly coerced into using drugs to stay in his favor. Musk, known for his involvement in Tesla and SpaceX, allegedly partakes in substances like ketamine and liquid ecstasy at social gatherings, alongside influential figures like Larry Ellison and James Murdoch. The report highlights concerns over peer pressure and fear of social repercussions among Musk's associates, despite awareness of potential legal and ethical implications. The revelations raise questions about corporate culture and accountability within Musk's inner circle.

President Joe Biden clinched a decisive win in the South Carolina Democratic primary, setting his sights on a rematch with Republican counterpart Donald Trump in November's election. Amid projections of a clear victory over two distant rivals, Biden reiterated his commitment to ousting Trump from office. While scrutinizing results for Black voter support, pivotal in Biden's previous triumph, concerns over turnout emerged in polling stations across Charleston. Despite challenges, Biden expressed optimism about his campaign's trajectory, focusing next on Nevada's primary. As the political landscape intensifies, Democrats aim to consolidate support, while Republicans anticipate a contentious primary showdown.

The US and UK led a coalition of nations in conducting strikes on over 36 Houthi targets across at least 13 locations in Yemen. Fighter jets, destroyers, and cruise missiles were used to target Houthi command centers, weapons storage, and missile launch sites. “Our aim remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea but let us reiterate our warning to Houthi leadership: we will not hesitate to continue to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways in the face of continued threats,” the US and UK said in a joint statement along with Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. Earlier, the US intercepted six Houthi anti-ship missiles before they could be launched toward the Red Sea. Today's strike follows the US strikes in Iraq and Syria yesterday to curb Houthi attacks on international shipping lanes in the Red Sea. 

At least 19 people have died in devastating wildfires raging across central and southern Chile. President Gabriel Boric has declared a state of emergency due to the catastrophic fires, fueled by dry conditions and soaring temperatures. Thousands of hectares of forest have been consumed, with Valparaiso particularly affected. Evacuations have been ordered, and a curfew imposed to aid responders. The death toll is expected to rise as authorities assess the damage. The blazes, exacerbated by a summer heatwave and drought, highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat wildfires and mitigate their devastating impact.

Two Ukrainian attack drones struck the Volgograd oil refinery, the largest in southern Russia, in a series of long-range attacks on Russian oil facilities. The operation, attributed to the SBU security service, targeted the primary processing facility, threatening significant production capacity. While local authorities confirmed a fire had been extinguished, owner Lukoil had no immediate comment. Ukrainian officials, though seldom claiming responsibility publicly, view such strikes as vital in impeding the Kremlin's war effort. With distances exceeding 600km between Ukrainian and Russian cities, such attacks highlight Ukraine's efforts to counter Moscow's military prowess. Amidst escalating conflict, Ukraine continues to innovate in drone technology to retaliate effectively.