UK: Major Wildfire Burns Across Dovestone Reservoir Moorland

A major wildfire continues to burn across moorland at Dovestone Reservoir in Saddleworth and Tintwistle Moor near Glossop, sending smoke plumes for miles across the region since firefighters were first called on Saturday, July 11.

US: Evacuations Remain in Place as Willow Fire Grows Near Leadville 2

As of Monday, July 13, the Willow Fire near Turquoise Lake west of Leadville, Colorado, has burned more than 6,200 acres since it started on June 28, with evacuation orders still in place. Firefighters continued working under another Red Flag Warning amid record-setting heat.

France: Water-Scooping Operation Continues on Seine Near Fontainebleau

A wildfire in the Fontainebleau forest area of Seine-et-Marne, France, grew to more than 1,300 hectares as of Monday night, July 13, following a series of major fires since a red heatwave alert was issued on Saturday, July 11. Two people were detained near the area as authorities investigated the possibility of arson.

US: Evacuations Remain in Place as Willow Fire Grows Near Leadville

As of Sunday, July 12, the Willow Fire near Turquoise Lake west of Leadville, Colorado, has burned more than 5,800 acres since it started on June 28, with evacuation orders still in place. Firefighters continued working under another Red Flag Warning amid record-setting heat.

Japan: Balck-and-White Calbee Chips Spotted in Store Before Color Return

Major snack maker Calbee announced on July 9 that it will gradually restore color packaging for eight products starting in late July, after switching them to black-and-white printing due to naphtha supply concerns. The "black-and-white potato chips" ended up on shelves for about two months since late May, sparking varied reactions on social media. Some said they never saw the black-and-white version in stores at all, since only the full-color packaging was available, while others speculated the black-and-white chips could become a collector's item.

Japan's 10-year gov't bond yield hits 2.9%

Japan's 10-year gov't bond yield hits 2.9%

A financial data monitor in Tokyo shows the yield on Japan's benchmark 10-year government bond hitting 2.900 percent on the afternoon of July 9, 2026, for the first time since November 1996 amid concerns about inflation in Japan fueled by heightened tensions between the United States and Iran.

"Confidential birth" at Tokyo hospital

"Confidential birth" at Tokyo hospital

Hitoshi Kato, head of San-Ikukai Hospital in Tokyo, speaks at a press conference at the Tokyo metropolitan government office on July 2, 2026, revealing that seven women had given birth to their babies through the hospital's "confidential birth" system since its launch in March 2025.

"Confidential birth" at Tokyo hospital

"Confidential birth" at Tokyo hospital

Hitoshi Kato, head of San-Ikukai Hospital in Tokyo, speaks at a press conference at the Tokyo metropolitan government office on July 2, 2026, revealing that seven women had given birth to their babies through the hospital's "confidential birth" system since its launch in March 2025.

South Africa: Anti-Immigration Protests Erupt Across Major Cities 3

Protests erupted across South Africa's main cities on Tuesday, June 30, as demonstrators demanded that all undocumented migrants leave the country. It was described as the biggest migration-related protest in the country since 2008. In Johannesburg, thousands took to the streets, with the demonstration led by Ngizwe Mchunu. This video shows a protest in Pretoria.

South Africa: Anti-Immigration Protests Erupt Across Major Cities 2

Protests erupted across South Africa's main cities on Tuesday, June 30, as demonstrators demanded that all undocumented migrants leave the country. It was described as the biggest migration-related protest in the country since 2008. In Johannesburg, thousands took to the streets, with the demonstration led by Ngizwe Mchunu.

South Africa: Anti-Immigration Protests Erupt Across Major Cities

Protests erupted across South Africa's main cities on Tuesday, June 30, as demonstrators demanded that all undocumented migrants leave the country. It was described as the biggest migration-related protest in the country since 2008. In Johannesburg, tens of thousands took to the streets, with the demonstration led by Ngizwe Mchunu.

World Cup 2026 – US: Japanese Fans Clean Up Houston Stadium After Heartbreaking Loss to Brazil

Brazil defeated Japan 2-1 in a World Cup Round of 32 match in Houston on Monday, June 29, after a late goal from Gabriel Martinelli in stoppage time. Following the loss, Japanese fans stayed behind to clean up trash from the stadium, continuing a tradition that has been observed since 1998.

US: Over One Million Join NYC Pride Parade With Mayor Mamdani Marching for First Time

New York City's annual Pride Parade drew over one million people on Sunday, June 28, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul leading the march. It was Mamdani's first Pride Parade since taking office.

Canada: Prime Minister Carney Takes Part in Toronto Pride With Mayor Chow

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney marched in the Toronto Pride Parade on Sunday, June 28 alongside Mayor Olivia Chow, shaking hands and taking selfies with crowds along Yonge Street. Carney, who was drenched by water gun-wielding revelers during the march, was participating in the parade for the first time since taking office last year.

Albania: Protests Continue in Tirana Over Kushner-Linked Luxury Resort on Protected Coast

Albanians continued to protest in Tirana on Monday, June 22 against a luxury tourism development linked to Jared Kushner, President Trump's son-in-law, planned on the country's protected Adriatic coastline. The demonstrations, initially sparked by concerns over the construction plans, have since expanded into a broader movement against alleged corruption in the Albanian government.

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Nidec Corp. President Mitsuya Kishida (far R) holds a press conference in Kyoto on June 18, 2026, following the company's general shareholder meeting earlier in the day, held for the first time since accounting and quality scandals surfaced at the major motor manufacturer in 2025.

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Nidec Corp. President Mitsuya Kishida (C) holds a press conference in Kyoto on June 18, 2026, following the company's general shareholder meeting earlier in the day, held for the first time since accounting and quality scandals surfaced at the major motor manufacturer in 2025.

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Shareholders enter on June 18, 2026, the venue of a general shareholders meeting by Nidec Corp. in Kyoto, being held for the first time since accounting and quality scandals surfaced at the major motor manufacturer in 2025.

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Nidec Corp. President Mitsuya Kishida holds a press conference in Kyoto on June 18, 2026, following the company's general shareholder meeting earlier in the day, held for the first time since accounting and quality scandals surfaced at the major motor manufacturer in 2025.

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Scandal-mired Nidec shareholders meeting

Nidec Corp. President Mitsuya Kishida holds a press conference in Kyoto on June 18, 2026, following the company's general shareholder meeting earlier in the day, held for the first time since accounting and quality scandals surfaced at the major motor manufacturer in 2025.

UK: Over 1,000 Cyclists Take Part in Naked Bike Ride in London

More than 1,000 cyclists took part in London's annual World Naked Bike Ride on Sunday, June 14. The event has been held in the capital every year since 2004 in protest against oil dependency and car culture, while celebrating body freedom.

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 13, 2026, for her first trip to Europe since taking office in October. Takaichi will visit Britain and Italy before attending a Group of Seven summit in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains.

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 13, 2026, for her first trip to Europe since taking office in October. Takaichi will visit Britain and Italy before attending a Group of Seven summit in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains.

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 13, 2026, for her first trip to Europe since taking office in October. Takaichi will visit Britain and Italy before attending a Group of Seven summit in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains.

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 13, 2026, for her first trip to Europe since taking office in October. Takaichi will visit Britain and Italy before attending a Group of Seven summit in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains.

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japan PM Takaichi heads to Europe

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs from Tokyo's Haneda airport on June 13, 2026, for her first trip to Europe since taking office in October. Takaichi will visit Britain and Italy before attending a Group of Seven summit in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains.

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo wrestler Aonishiki is pictured at Haneda airport in Tokyo on June 10, 2026, before flying to France for a June 13-14 sumo tournament in Paris. About 130 wrestlers and staff members will participate in the Japan Sumo Association's event, the third in Paris since 1986 and 1995. Half of the participants have already arrived in the French capital.

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo grand champion Onosato is pictured at Haneda airport in Tokyo on June 10, 2026, before flying to France for a June 13-14 sumo tournament in Paris. About 130 wrestlers and staff members will participate in the Japan Sumo Association's event, the third in Paris since 1986 and 1995. Half of the participants have already arrived in the French capital.

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo grand champion Onosato meets the press at Haneda airport in Tokyo on June 10, 2026, before flying to France for a June 13-14 sumo tournament in Paris. About 130 wrestlers and staff members will participate in the Japan Sumo Association's event, the third in Paris since 1986 and 1995. Half of the participants have already arrived in the French capital.

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo grand champion Onosato (top) waves at Haneda airport in Tokyo on June 10, 2026, before flying to France for a June 13-14 sumo tournament in Paris. About 130 wrestlers and staff members will participate in the Japan Sumo Association's event, the third in Paris since 1986 and 1995. Half of the participants have already arrived in the French capital.

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo wrestler Wakatakakage meets the press at Haneda airport in Tokyo on June 10, 2026, before flying to France for a June 13-14 sumo tournament in Paris. About 130 wrestlers and staff members will participate in the Japan Sumo Association's event, the third in Paris since 1986 and 1995. Half of the participants have already arrived in the French capital.

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo: Paris tournament

Sumo wrestler Wakatakakage meets the press at Haneda airport in Tokyo on June 10, 2026, before flying to France for a June 13-14 sumo tournament in Paris. About 130 wrestlers and staff members will participate in the Japan Sumo Association's event, the third in Paris since 1986 and 1995. Half of the participants have already arrived in the French capital.

China: Lost Owl Hides Under Exercise Equipment in Henan

On April 29, 2026, in Henan, central China, a small owl was filmed hiding under outdoor exercise equipment after apparently losing its way. The owl gazed around with wide eyes, visibly disoriented. Since owls have limited daytime vision, onlookers worried for its safety. Staff later arrived to assist, but found the owl had already flown off on its own — likely after dark.

1 year since S. Korean President Lee took office

1 year since S. Korean President Lee took office

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a press conference in Seoul on June 8, 2026, four days after the first anniversary of him taking office. (Pool photo)

1 year since S. Korean President Lee took office

1 year since S. Korean President Lee took office

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung holds a press conference in Seoul on June 8, 2026, four days after the first anniversary of him taking office. (Pool photo)

Spain: Wildfire Breaks Out in Los Garres, Murcia, Prompting Evacuation 4

A wildfire broke out Tuesday, June 2 in Los Garres, Murcia, southern Spain, forcing the evacuation of around 100 residents as flames threatened homes. Those evacuated have since been allowed to return. As of Wednesday morning, June 3, the fire had burned approximately 177 hectares and remained active, with a 300-meter front persisting on the upper hillside. Over 400 personnel, including military units and aerial assets, continue firefighting operations. Authorities say there is no current risk to residents or properties.

Spain: Wildfire Breaks Out in Los Garres, Murcia, Prompting Evacuation 2

A wildfire broke out Tuesday, June 2 in Los Garres, Murcia, southern Spain, forcing the evacuation of around 100 residents as flames threatened homes. Those evacuated have since been allowed to return. As of Wednesday morning, June 3, the fire had burned approximately 177 hectares and remained active, with a 300-meter front persisting on the upper hillside. Over 400 personnel, including military units and aerial assets, continue firefighting operations. Authorities say there is no current risk to residents or properties.

Spain: Wildfire Breaks Out in Los Garres, Murcia, Prompting Evacuation 3

A wildfire broke out Tuesday, June 2 in Los Garres, Murcia, southern Spain, forcing the evacuation of around 100 residents as flames threatened homes. Those evacuated have since been allowed to return. As of Wednesday morning, June 3, the fire had burned approximately 177 hectares and remained active, with a 300-meter front persisting on the upper hillside. Over 400 personnel, including military units and aerial assets, continue firefighting operations. Authorities say there is no current risk to residents or properties.

Spain: Wildfire Breaks Out in Los Garres, Murcia, Prompting Evacuation

A wildfire broke out Tuesday, June 2 in Los Garres, Murcia, southern Spain, forcing the evacuation of around 100 residents as flames threatened homes. Those evacuated have since been allowed to return. As of Wednesday morning, June 3, the fire had burned approximately 177 hectares and remained active, with a 300-meter front persisting on the upper hillside. Over 400 personnel, including military units and aerial assets, continue firefighting operations. Authorities say there is no current risk to residents or properties.

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Photo taken on June 3, 2026, shows the Eneos Endeavor, an oil tanker operated by Eneos Corp., arriving at the oil distributor's Kiire crude oil reserve terminal in Kagoshima, southwestern Japan. It is the second oil tanker to arrive in Japan via the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war erupted in late February.

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Photo taken on June 3, 2026, shows the Eneos Endeavor, an oil tanker operated by Eneos Corp., arriving at the oil distributor's Kiire crude oil reserve terminal in Kagoshima, southwestern Japan. It is the second oil tanker to arrive in Japan via the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war erupted in late February.

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Photo taken on June 3, 2026, shows the Eneos Endeavor, an oil tanker operated by Eneos Corp., arriving at the oil distributor's Kiire crude oil reserve terminal in Kagoshima, southwestern Japan. It is the second oil tanker to arrive in Japan via the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war erupted in late February.

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Oil tanker via Hormuz arrives in Japan, 2nd since Iran war began

Photo taken on June 3, 2026, shows the Eneos Endeavor, an oil tanker operated by Eneos Corp., arriving at the oil distributor's Kiire crude oil reserve terminal in Kagoshima, southwestern Japan. It is the second oil tanker to arrive in Japan via the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war erupted in late February.

Dollar hits 160 yen

Dollar hits 160 yen

A financial data monitor in Tokyo shows the dollar rising to 160.00 yen on June 3, 2026. The U.S. currency hit the psychologically important threshold for the first time since late April.

UK: Hundreds of Thousands Pack London Streets for Arsenal Victory Parade

Hundreds of thousands of Arsenal fans flooded the streets around Emirates Stadium in north London on Sunday, May 31, to celebrate the club's first men's Premier League title since 2004 and the women's team's historic Fifa Women's Champions Cup victory.

Canada: Wildfire in Alberta Forces Evacuations Near Edmonton

A wildfire broke out Thursday, May 28 in Barrhead County, northwest of Edmonton, Alberta, prompting a state of local emergency. Evacuation orders were issued for the Summerlea and Thunder Lake subdivisions. Firefighting crews have since contained structural fires in the area, allowing Summerlea residents to return home, while Thunder Lake residents remain evacuated.

1st oil tanker to arrive in Japan passing Hormuz since Iran war

CHITA, Japan, May 25 Kyodo - Video taken from a Kyodo News helicopter on May 25, 2026, shows the Idemitsu Maru, an oil tanker operated by a unit of major Japanese petroleum company Idemitsu Kosan Co., off Chita, Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, following its arrival earlier in the day after transiting the Strait of Hormuz in late April. It is the first oil tanker to arrive in Japan having passed through the strait since the Iran war erupted and left traffic through the vital energy route heavily restricted. (Kyodo)

Japan: Rare Red Tide Sweeps Suruga Bay Beaches for First Time in Years

Red tide has been washing ashore along multiple coastlines of Suruga Bay in Shizuoka Prefecture since May 20, in what is believed to be the bay's largest such occurrence in over a decade. The unusual bloom has left tourists puzzled at beaches across the Izu Peninsula, where the reddish-brown discoloration has spread across the shoreline.

China: Duckling Raised With Puppies Nurses From Mother Dog in Guangxi

On September 6, 2025, in Guangxi, located in southern China, a video captured a dark duckling nestling under a mother dog alongside a white puppy. The duckling suckled eagerly while the mother dog stayed calm and quietly watched over it as it fed. The owner explained that the duckling had lived with the puppies since hatching and seemed to think it was one of the dogs. The mother dog had also accepted the duckling and gently nursed it each time, creating a heartwarming and unlikely bond.

1st oil tanker to arrive in Japan passing Hormuz since Iran war

1st oil tanker to arrive in Japan passing Hormuz since Iran war

Photo taken from Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, on May 25, 2026, shows the Idemitsu Maru, an oil tanker operated by a unit of major Japanese petroleum company Idemitsu Kosan Co., following its arrival earlier in the day after transiting the Strait of Hormuz in late April. It is the first oil tanker to arrive in Japan having passed through the strait since the Iran war erupted and left traffic through the vital energy route heavily restricted.