New megaflash lightning record exceeds distance of pilgrimage route
The new record for longest lightning flash is 829 kilometers (515 miles), which would take at least 90 minutes in a plane.
United States (U.S.)
The U.S. is a major global power and a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council. It is a founding member of NATO and a key participant in a vast network of international organizations, including the G-7, G-20, OECD, and World Bank. It is currently re-evaluating its alliances and relationships, particularly with China and Russia, while also engaging in diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war and addressing new trade tensions with key partners like India.
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European diplomats to continue Iranian nuclear talks after Istanbul
Talks between the E3 and Iran marked their first formal round since the 12-day conflict with Israel and the U.S. in June.
U.N. top court rules a healthy environment is a human right
The court's advisory opinion stems from a sustained campaign led by Vanuatu and supported by 130 U.N. member nations.
Trump administration pulls plug on UNESCO again, cites anti-Israel bias
The U.S. will remain a full member of UNESCO until its withdrawal officially takes effect at the close of next year.
Global droughts intensify threats to food security, trade, social stability
Experts call it a 'slow-moving global catastrophe' for food, energy, and trade that will require systematic monitoring.
U.S. and Italy reject WHO pandemic changes to global health regulations
In a move that undercuts health cooperation, the countries cited concerns the reforms would infringe on sovereignty.
Congress sends cuts to foreign aid and public media to Trump's desk
The package will greatly impact the ability of international organizations and foreign aid programs to deliver help.
U.N. launches new nuclear war impact study, first since 1988
A prevous study on climatic and global effects of nuclear war raised awareness of the concept of "nuclear winter."
Europe issues ultimatum to Iran as the nuclear deal deadline looms
Britain, France and Germany threaten to reimpose sanctions if there is no progress on limiting Tehran's nuclear program.
World off-track to meet most Sustainable Development Goals
Only 35% of 169 targets are on track or show "adequate progress," according to the U.N.'s new SDGs report.
Brussels and Jakarta agree to tighten trade links as more U.S. tariffs loom
A push for deeper bilateral ties is a sign of U.S. trading partners banding together to cut dependence on Washington.
Sand and dust storms intensify global health and economic crises
The World Meteorological Organization revealed these airborne hazards affect 330 million people in 150 countries.
Amid tariff threats, ASEAN secures nuclear zone pledge from China
Southeast Asian leaders face new U.S. tariff threats, gain nuclear zone promise from China in shifting global dynamic.
U.N. rights leader criticizes U.S. and 'any acts of intimidation or reprisal'
The head of the U.N. Human Rights Council pushed back against U.S. sanctions on a council-appointed investigator.
Trump threatens to impose extra tariffs on BRICS-aligned nations
Nations that back the bloc of emerging market countries' so-called 'anti-American policies' could face an added 10% tariff.
Nuclear inspectors leave Iran after cooperation halted over airstrikes
Despite blocking IAEA inspectors from tracking uranium enrichment, Tehran says diplomatic channels remain open.