Noontime News Recap: US and Iran trade strikes as Gulf tensions widen and EU marks MH17 anniversary

US military strikes on Iran continued for a seventh consecutive night, with explosions reported in several Iranian locations and retaliatory attacks claimed across the Gulf, deepening fears that the confrontation could spread further.  🔗

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A senior Iranian official warned that Tehran could move beyond retaliation and begin broader attacks on US forces if Washington keeps up its military campaign, signalling a possible escalation beyond the current exchange of strikes.  🔗

In the Gulf, a power generation and water desalination plant in Kuwait caught fire after a fresh wave of attacks attributed to Iran, underlining the regional spillover from the conflict and the risk to critical infrastructure.  🔗

In Washington, more than 100 House Democrats backed an amendment to cut military aid to Israel, exposing a sharp split inside the party over one of the most sensitive issues in US foreign policy.  🔗

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In Europe, a fast moving wildfire destroyed more than 100 homes in Drammen, southern Norway, forcing hundreds of people to leave their homes as rescue officials battled to contain the blaze.  🔗

The European Union marked 12 years since the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, honouring the 298 people killed, including 80 children, and reiterating support for accountability efforts.  🔗

The EU also imposed sanctions on Russian drone firms after deadly strikes on Kyiv, saying Russia's continued and escalating aggression against Ukraine, including attacks on the capital on 1 and 5 July 2026, demanded a response.  🔗

In Britain, incoming prime minister Andy Burnham is expected to announce plans for new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea when he takes office on Monday, a move that would mark a notable shift in energy policy.  🔗

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