Stay informed with our flagship newsletter, Morning Wire. You can subscribe here to receive updates directly to your email.
Good morning. Today’s headlines cover tributes to Lindsey Graham, military actions in Iraq, and recovery efforts in Japan. Also, personal artifacts belonging to Colonel Sanders are up for auction.
Tribute to an Influential American: Lindsey Graham
The late Senator Lindsey Graham was honored in Washington, D.C., with a series of ceremonies that underscored his global influence. His memorial services at the U.S. Capitol and Washington National Cathedral attracted prominent figures including former President Donald Trump and international leaders. Read more.
- Significant attendees included Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Graham, who passed away on July 11 from a likely aortic tear, was celebrated as a staunch advocate for U.S. military intervention globally. Former President Trump described him as “a giant of the United States Senate, a true American original who left us much too soon.”
Explore further →
Photos of the memorial services
Middle East Tensions: US and Saudi Arabia Respond
Jordan’s military reported intercepting missiles launched from Iran, marking the end of a short-lived ceasefire in the region. The United States and Saudi Arabia conducted strikes on militia sites in Iraq as tensions in the Middle East escalate. Read more.
- The U.S. Central Command confirmed joint operations with Saudi forces targeting Iranian-backed militias. Previously, there was a brief period of non-aggression, but recent missile threats have reignited conflict over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Explore further →
Pentagon ties new casualty category for renewed US-Iran fighting to the end of ‘Operation Epic Fury’
Recent fighting with Iran further draws down key US air defense stockpiles, analysis says
Aftermath of Japan’s Earthquake: Search and Rescue Efforts
In southwestern Japan, emergency teams are searching for survivors after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake caused significant destruction. The disaster has already claimed at least 18 lives. Read more.
- Critical infrastructure, such as bullet train services, remains disrupted. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized the urgency of rescue operations, stating, “There are people who are still waiting to be rescued, and it’s a race against time.” Nearly 34,900 homes are without power, and thousands have sought refuge in shelters.
Explore further →
WATCH: Aerial shots of the damage
Colonel Sanders’ Memorabilia: Auction Highlights
Personal items from KFC founder Colonel Sanders, including a notable black bow tie, were recently auctioned. Auctioneer Jonathan Klunk revealed that the bow tie was actually a clip-on. The auction’s top sale was a personal planner containing a list of “herbs and spices,” fetching $30,000. Read more.
Stay informed with our flagship newsletter Morning Wire. You can subscribe here to receive updates directly to your email.
