Top News — Tue, Jul 7, 1:03 PM UTC

French Court Upholds Le Pen Conviction; Shortens Ban for 2027 Presidential Run

A French appeals court upheld Marine Le Pen's embezzlement conviction but reduced her ban from public office, allowing her to run for president in 2027, though she would be required to wear an electronic ankle tag.

Tanker Struck in Strait of Hormuz; Oil Prices Climb

A commercial tanker was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire, as the U.S. and Iran continued exchanging threats with peace talks on hold. Iran's Revolutionary Guard reportedly fired missiles at two commercial ships in the area.

China Submarine Fires Long-Range Missile; US Cites Nuclear Buildup

China conducted its first known test launch of a submarine-fired ballistic missile, which the Trump administration criticized as nuclear proliferation. The test, described by Beijing as routine, has rattled Pacific allies and underscores China's efforts to narrow the gap with the United States in strategic weaponry.

Prince Harry Begins UK Visit Amid Court Battle and Royal Trust Issues

Prince Harry arrived in the UK for a visit as a ruling is expected in his final privacy lawsuit against a British tabloid publisher. Royal experts suggest palace aides do not trust him alone with King Charles, indicating any interactions will be scripted.

Kylian Mbappé Condemns Paraguayan Senator's Racist Attack

French football star Kylian Mbappé condemned racist insults directed at him by a Paraguayan lawmaker following a World Cup match. The French FA plans to take legal action, and President Macron has also spoken out against the remarks.

ICE Sued by New York Man Over Home Visit Following Email Criticism

A New York resident is suing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after officers visited his home to issue a warning in response to an email he sent criticizing the agency's director.

Belgium Eliminates US from World Cup 4-1

Belgium defeated the U.S. 4-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals, eliminating the co-host nation. The match was preceded by controversy surrounding FIFA's decision to lift Folarin Balogun's suspension after President Trump reportedly intervened.

Damascus Blasts Injure 18 During Macron's Syria Visit

Explosions occurred near French President Emmanuel Macron's hotel in Damascus during his landmark visit to Syria, injuring at least 18 people, including four police officers, as he met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Trump Arrives for NATO Summit; Alliance Unveils Billions in Arms Deals

President Trump landed in Ankara for a high-stakes NATO summit, where he was greeted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Discussions are expected to focus on building a new alliance model and addressing Trump's push for increased defense spending from member nations.

Democrats Urge Platner Withdrawal From Senate Race After Rape Allegation

Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner faces mounting pressure to withdraw from the race after a woman accused him of sexual assault, an allegation he denies. Top Democrats, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Chuck Schumer, have pulled their endorsements.

Supreme Court Term Closes with Focus on Presidential Authority and Title IX

The Supreme Court's latest term concluded with landmark cases on presidential authority, expanding the president's power over the executive branch while also reining it in. The court also addressed Title IX, upholding protections for women's sports and clarifying the distinction between identity and biology.

High Court Warns Israeli Politicians Against Defying Rulings

Israel's High Court of Justice warned that elected officials who choose not to comply with court rulings could face civil lawsuits. This comes as the Knesset advances a controversial bill for a politically appointed Oct. 7 probe.

Ukrainian Drones Hit Russia's Largest Oil Refinery; Siberia Now ‘Within Reach’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to press NATO for more air defense systems at the Ankara summit, emphasizing Europe's need for stronger defense against Russian ballistic missiles. This follows Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian fuel tankers.

Last updated: 7/7/2026, 1:03:31 PM