US and Iran sign preliminary deal to end conflict and reopen Strait of Hormuz, while global tensions persist over Ukraine attacks, education security crises, and regional instability.

US and Iran sign preliminary peace agreement ending 108-day conflict, with Trump announcing the Strait of Hormuz will be 'completely opened' on Friday, though specific deal terms remain undisclosed and Israel has expressed strong opposition to the accord.

Russia launches missile and drone attacks on Kyiv, damaging the historic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery—a UNESCO World Heritage site sacred to both Ukrainian and Russian Orthodox faiths—killing at least five people.

Global study reveals violent attacks on schools have surged by 40% across 83 countries, with at least 10,600 students and staff killed, injured, abducted or arrested, highlighting a critical geopolitical security crisis in education.

Lebanon sees cautious optimism and mass returns to southern regions following the US-Iran peace deal, with war-weary residents hopeful that Trump pressure will ensure Israel adheres to the ceasefire agreement.

Investigation finds major global brands including Amazon and Sony are 'likely' sourcing coltan from supply chains controlled by M23 rebels in the DRC, fueling armed groups accused of atrocities.

UK announces sweeping ban on social media for children under 16 starting 2027, joining Australia and other nations in efforts to restrict platforms engineered to maximize youth engagement.

Ukraine advances its bid to join the EU with major opposition from Hungary now removed, though negotiations face a lengthy path ahead as Brussels considers membership applications.

Sudan experiences escalating drone warfare with over 1,000 deaths recorded in 2026 as unmanned strikes multiply across the conflict zone, according to UN documentation.

Pakistan set to assume chairmanship of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Council of Heads of State in September, positioning itself as a regional diplomatic hub amid broader geopolitical shifts.

UK court upholds government ban on Palestine Action as a terrorist organization, overturning lower-court ruling in significant free speech and national security decision affecting pro-Palestinian activism.