World’s major cities hit by 25% leap in extremely hot days since the 1990s

Coco Gauff showcased her incredible talent by rallying to defeat Belinda Bencic in a thrilling three-set match at the China Open, securing her spot in the quarterfinals in Beijing. This victory is significant as it highlights Gauff's growth as a two-time grand slam singles champion and her potential to make a deep run in the tournament.

Andrew Tate will not face criminal charges regarding serious allegations made by four women in a civil case at London's high court. The Crown Prosecution Service determined that the legal criteria for a criminal prosecution were not met, despite the women's claims of sexual violence and abuse. This decision raises significant concerns about accountability and the legal system's response to allegations of such serious nature, especially in the context of ongoing discussions about violence against women.

AstraZeneca, the UK's largest drugmaker, is set to upgrade its US listing to match its London shares, a move seen as a setback for the UK market. While the company reassures that its headquarters will remain in Cambridge, this decision highlights ongoing concerns about the attractiveness of the London stock exchange for major firms. This shift could impact investor confidence and the perception of the UK as a hub for pharmaceutical innovation.

Terry Farrell, the renowned architect behind iconic structures like the MI6 headquarters and TV-am studios, has passed away at the age of 87. Known for his nonconformist style, Farrell's work has left a lasting impact on the architectural landscape, blending boldness with functionality. His designs not only shaped skylines but also influenced how we perceive modern architecture. His death marks the end of an era for innovative design, reminding us of the importance of creativity in urban planning.

Nathan Law, a prominent Hong Kong activist, was denied entry into Singapore despite holding a valid visa, raising concerns about political motivations behind the decision. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by activists fleeing oppressive regimes and underscores the delicate balance countries must maintain between diplomatic relations and human rights advocacy.

China and North Korea have come together to strengthen their ties against perceived external pressures, as highlighted by recent talks between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and North Korean counterpart Choe Son Hui in Beijing. This collaboration is significant as it reflects both nations' desire to assert their sovereignty and resist what they term 'hegemony', potentially impacting regional dynamics and international relations.

Oregon has taken legal action against the Trump administration to prevent the deployment of US military troops to Portland, following a controversial directive. This lawsuit reflects growing tensions between state leaders and federal authorities, especially after similar military interventions in cities like Los Angeles and Washington, DC, faced local opposition. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how federal forces are used in urban areas, impacting the balance of power between state and federal governments.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is back in Ottawa after a successful trip to London, where he engaged with four other prime ministers and attended the Women's Rugby World Cup final. This visit not only highlights Canada's active role on the global stage but also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in sports and politics.

Tennis star Lorenzo Musetti has issued an apology to Chinese fans following an on-court incident in Beijing where he expressed frustration over fans coughing. This outburst has sparked significant outrage, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding athlete-fan interactions, especially in a diverse cultural context. Musetti's response is crucial as it reflects the importance of maintaining respectful communication in sports.

A man has been charged with murder following the discovery of a missing person's body in a derelict building in London. This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns about safety and the importance of addressing issues related to homelessness and abandoned properties in urban areas.

The FBI has made the controversial decision to fire agents who participated in a racial justice protest by kneeling in Washington DC, following the murder of George Floyd in 2020. This action has sparked discussions about the agency's stance on social justice and the implications for its employees' rights to express solidarity during significant societal events. The decision reflects ongoing tensions between law enforcement and movements advocating for racial equality, raising questions about accountability and the role of federal agencies in addressing social issues.

The Rye House power station, located north of London, has been generating electricity since 1993 and is the longest-serving gas power plant in Britain. However, it is also known for producing some of the most expensive electricity in the country. Recent concerns about the fairness of profits made by gas generators have led to new proposals aimed at reforming the energy system. This situation is significant as it raises questions about energy pricing and the balance between profit and public interest in the energy sector.

In a recent statement, Health Secretary Wes Streeting firmly ruled out the possibility of introducing VAT on private healthcare, reassuring the public amid ongoing discussions about potential tax increases. This decision is significant as it reflects the government's commitment to maintaining accessible healthcare options without imposing additional financial burdens on patients. Streeting's clear stance aims to alleviate concerns and foster trust in the healthcare system during a time of economic uncertainty.

In a significant move for the UK's healthcare system, Health Secretary Keir Starmer is set to unveil plans for an 'NHS Online' initiative aimed at reducing waiting times for patients. This announcement comes ahead of his speech at the Labour conference, where he will emphasize the government's commitment to national renewal through innovative healthcare solutions. The initiative is expected to empower patients and modernize the NHS, marking a hopeful step towards improving healthcare accessibility in England.

International Distribution Services is set to rebrand thousands of Collect+ stores as Royal Mail Shops, enhancing the convenience of collecting, sending, and returning parcels. This move not only strengthens the Royal Mail brand but also improves customer access to parcel services, which is crucial in today's fast-paced delivery market.

In a recent update, Michele Bullock addressed the ongoing concerns about rising house prices in Australia, stating that there is little she can do personally to influence the situation. This comes amid discussions about a potential interest rate cut in November, which could impact housing affordability. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by many Australians in the current market and the need for effective solutions to address housing issues.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for a strong and united response from Europe to the increasing threat of Russian drone incursions. This statement came during a press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, ahead of a crucial EU security college meeting focused on defense and security issues. The growing presence of drones in European airspace raises significant concerns, making it essential for EU leaders to collaborate effectively to ensure the safety and security of the region.

Hamas has announced that it will begin studying President Trump's 20-point peace plan for Gaza, although a timeline for their response remains uncertain. This development is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions in the region, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that Israel will take decisive action if the deal is rejected. The situation continues to evolve, and the implications of this plan could have far-reaching effects on peace efforts in the Middle East.