The United States launched fresh military strikes on Iran after President Donald Trump called Tehran's leadership "scum" during a tirade at the NATO summit in Ankara, effectively ending the ceasefire signed last month. The most extensive exchange of fire since the interim deal saw oil markets record their sharpest price rise in nearly two months following attacks on fossil fuel tankers near the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump's threats and renewed hostilities
Trump vowed to hit Iran "hard again tonight" as he arrived at the NATO summit, declaring the ceasefire over. Earlier, he said: "The ceasefire with Iran is over." At the time of writing, the US had just launched fresh strikes. Both nations have threatened to reignite their conflict, with Iran responding to US actions.
The escalation follows a series of attacks on oil tankers near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The price of crude oil surged, reflecting market fears of supply disruptions.
Telstra outage wreaks havoc across Australia
A massive Telstra mobile network outage paralyzed Australia, leaving phones silent, commuters stranded, triple-zero calls failing, EV chargers stalled, and Eftpos machines disabled. The telco blamed a "software defect," but the incident highlighted the nation's reliance on connectivity and the vulnerability of single points of failure. Effects were still felt more than 24 hours later.
Blues deliver Origin boilover in Brisbane
New South Wales achieved one of the greatest State of Origin boilovers, defeating Queensland 30-12 in Brisbane. After a narrow escape in Sydney and a shellacking in Melbourne, the Blues silenced Suncorp Stadium to claim the Origin shield. A picture gallery captures the celebrations.
Cancer survival rates improve, vaccination rates drop
A flagship health report reveals Australians with cancer are living longer than ever, but falling childhood vaccination rates have raised concerns among experts. The report underscores progress in treatment while warning of public health risks.
AI threatens telemarketers, accountants, and advertisers
The federal government warns that artificial intelligence has yet to cause widespread job losses, but telemarketers, advertising staff, and accountants are among the occupations "most exposed" to replacement by AI. Women and graduates are most at risk, according to the analysis.
Asbestos found in children's play sand sold in Australia
Researchers discovered that colorful children's play sand sold in Australia while contaminated with asbestos can release hazardous airborne fibers of the toxic mineral. The exclusive finding raises safety concerns for consumers.
Rape accusation against high-profile Melbourne man: A court in Victoria heard that a high-profile Melbourne man was called a rapist and punched in the face by his former personal assistant shortly after he raped her at his home.
Farage faces Binface in Clacton byelection
Nigel Farage's plan to shift the narrative from his finances to a "people versus the establishment" byelection in Clacton appears to have backfired. All major parties pulled out, leaving the Reform UK leader in a fight with perennial novelty candidate Count Binface.
NATO leaders avoid mentioning World Cup to Trump
NATO leaders gathered in Ankara informally agreed not to mention the World Cup to Donald Trump to avoid irritating him, according to reports.
German auto industry warns of employment collapse
The German auto industry warned of a potential collapse of employment in the sector in Europe amid growing competition from China and other rivals.
Israeli soldier's photo corroborates torture reports
An Israeli soldier's photo of a Palestinian man from Gaza corroborates extensive reporting on Israeli torture of Palestinians in detention, rights groups have said.
World Cup updates
Norway's talent system built to beat Brazil is highlighted, while Egypt continues to rage about refereeing decisions in their loss to Argentina. Former Premier League referee Chris Foy argues that most decisions were correct. Two US Soccer staff members were suspended by FIFA for their team's World Cup defeat to Belgium, though the reason remains unclear. France faces Morocco in the first quarter-final at 6am AEST tomorrow.
Full Story: Will Trump invade Cuba?
Nour Haydar speaks to Ruaridh Nicoll about life on the ground in Havana and whether US military intervention could be next.
Telstra outage: A stark reminder of connectivity reliance
The Telstra outage paralyzed the nation, affecting mobile phones, commuters, triple-zero calls, EV chargers, and Eftpos. The telco blamed a software defect, but the episode underscores how single points of failure can have widespread consequences.
Packing light for winter weekends
Fashion workers and a flight attendant share strategies for packing light: focus on thin, long-sleeve tops, pair with jewellery for evening, and avoid taking too many shoes.
Sam Kerr returns to NWSL with Gotham FC
Sam Kerr returns to the NWSL in Gotham FC colors, seven years after leaving the American league for Chelsea. The landscape has changed significantly, writes Megan Swanick.
Wimbledon: Arthur Fery reaches semi-final
Wildcard Briton Arthur Fery, ranked 154th before the tournament, reached the semi-final by beating Flavio Cobolli in straight sets. Marta Kostyuk and Linda Noskova also advanced to their first Wimbledon semi-finals.
Tour de France: Olav Kooij wins stage five
Dutchman Olav Kooij claimed Tour de France stage five, while Norway's Torsten Træen retained the yellow jersey despite a crash.
Media roundup
The ACT has some of the biggest houses in the world on tiny blocks, according to the Canberra Times. Noosa's holiday industry faces its worst market in 25 years due to higher accommodation costs and cheap overseas alternatives. Karl Stefanovic's departure nearly cost Nine its new NRL deal, the Daily Telegraph reports.
What's happening today
Melbourne: Public hearing on intergenerational housing inequity. Diplomacy: Joint media conference with Anthony Albanese and Narendra Modi in Melbourne.
