News, July 3

WHO urges higher taxes on harmful products

The World Health Organization has launched a major global initiative urging governments to increase “real prices” for tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks. The goal is to curb noncommunicable diseases and prevent millions of premature deaths worldwide by reducing consumption of these products.

Europe scorches under record heatwave

A severe heatwave is sweeping across Europe—France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland—claiming at least eight lives. In Catalonia, two men died during a wildfire. Agricultural breakdowns, energy stress, and infrastructure toll are worsened. EU’s new 2040 emissions plan draws sharp criticism from environmentalists for allowing carbon offset reliance.

Hamas reviews new ceasefire proposals

Hamas is examining fresh ceasefire proposals after U.S. President Trump said Israel agreed to a 60-day truce in Gaza. Mediators aim for an agreement that halts hostilities and eases humanitarian access. Progress remains tentative amid ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Ugandan military helicopter crashes in Mogadishu

An African Union–deployed Ugandan military helicopter crashed upon landing at Mogadishu International Airport, Somalia, killing all five people onboard. The incident highlights ongoing volatility and risks within the peacekeeping mission.

Manga doomsday prophecy chills Japan tourism

A viral doomsday prophecy from a nostalgic manga—“The Future I Saw”—has sparked fears of a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami on July 5, 2025. Despite experts dismissing any real risk, tourism from Hong Kong to Japan has dipped significantly, with airlines canceling flights amid plunging bookings.

Microsoft to cut 9,000 jobs amid AI shift

Microsoft will eliminate 9,000 positions—about 4% of its workforce—as part of a strategic restructuring to pivot more aggressively into artificial intelligence. The move follows earlier layoffs and comes after the company posted strong quarterly earnings and debated its future investment in OpenAI.

House advances Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”

U.S. House Republicans narrowly advanced former President Trump’s expansive tax-and-spending package with a 219–213 vote. Known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” it proposes sweeping tax cuts and policy reforms but also adds an estimated $3.3 trillion to the national deficit. Internal GOP divisions persist.

Rise of megafires linked to climate change

A TIME analysis highlights the growing phenomenon of “megafires,” especially in Canada’s boreal forests. Dense forests, fire suppression policies, and warming climates are fueling unpredictable “firestorms” that threaten ecosystems, carbon sinks, and may usher in a “Pyrocene” era.

Global airport expansion and sustainability trends

Airports worldwide are ramping up infrastructure and financing efforts, aiming to address the demands of post-pandemic travel and implement sustainability initiatives. These upgrades cover terminal expansions, green tech, and funding reshuffles for future resilience.