Around the world

GT keeps the newswire  ticking by bringing you news from around the globe

FRANCE

Intense heat takes toll

More than 1,000 deaths have been reported as Europe faces an intense heatwave, with mercury reaching 40°C in some parts. French health authorities said most deaths involved older people, warning the toll could rise. Scientists described the heatwave as Europe’s worst on record, linking it to human-induced climate change. The extreme conditions have disrupted power, damaged infrastructure, and strained healthcare systems.

 

UK

Mental health crisis

More than one million children had active referrals to mental health services in 2024-25. It is the first time the figure has crossed this threshold, as per a report by children’s commissioner Rachel de Souza. Referrals have almost doubled since 2018-19. Anxiety remained the leading cause, accounting for 16% of cases. More than 60,000 children waited over two years for support, up from 44,000 last year. The rising demand was partly driven by suspected autism and neurodevelopmental conditions. De Souza called for better coordination to tackle the growing crisis.

 

CHINA

A concerning pact

A joint statement was issued after Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman’s visit to Beijing. Both sides agreed to elevate their comprehensive strategic partnership and explore a new ‘2 + 2’ dialogue mechanism on diplomacy and defence. The statement also confirmed joint development of the Mongla Port modernisation project and a Chinese economic zone in Chattogram. Also, China will support the Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project. Indian experts have said that this may have implications as the river flows through both India and Bangladesh.

BRAZIL

Marine species discovered

A marine expedition off the coast of Bahia has discovered 31 new species in just two weeks. Conducted aboard the vessel ‘Falkor (too)’, the survey focused on the ocean’s midwater. The discoveries include types of jellyfish, siphonophores, comb jellies, an amphipod, larvaceans, and giant rhizarians. Researchers credited the rapid findings to a new onboard microscope called the ‘Squid’, which enabled live 3D imaging of microbial life at sea.

DR CONGO

No crowds amid Ebola

Mass gatherings have been banned in Kinshasa and three neighbouring provinces to prevent the spread of Ebola, which has claimed 360 lives, even though no cases have been confirmed in the capital yet. Opposition has criticised the move, saying it was intended to suppress a planned protest against proposed constitutional changes. The government has not responded to the claims. Trials of new antiviral drugs are expected to begin soon.

Afghanistan

Airstrikes kill civilians

Pakistani airstrikes killed 36 civilians and injured 163 others, as per Afghan officials, escalating transnational tensions. The strikes targeted Paktia, Paktika, and Kunar provinces. Pakistan said the operation was aimed at militant hideouts linked to groups it blamed for an attack in Karachi. Afghan authorities denied that militants were operating from their territory and condemned the strikes. The violence comes despite a ceasefire agreed in March.

INDIA

Rowers create history

Lakshay and Ujjwal Kumar Singh created history by winning the country’s first-ever gold medal at the World Rowing Cup III in Switzerland. The duo bagged the Men’s Lightweight Double Sculls title by crossing the finish line in 6 minutes 26.09 seconds, ahead of athletes from Hong Kong and the Netherlands. The achievement also underlines the Armed Forces’ contribution to Indian rowing as both Lakshay and Ujjwal are serving soldiers in the Indian Army.