About this Episode
Israeli forces are steadily expanding their zone of control in Gaza, moving the so-called “yellow line” — a ceasefire boundary marking army-controlled areas — deeper into the territory. Residents say they often wake up to find themselves suddenly inside a dangerous “free-fire” zone.
The European Union has launched a formal procedure to unblock a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine and approve new sanctions against Russia. The loan had been blocked for months by outgoing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who accused Kyiv of halting oil flows for political reasons.
UK lawmakers have approved a lifetime smoking ban for anyone aged 17 or under today. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill introduces a rolling age rule. The legal age to buy tobacco will rise by one year each year, starting with people born from 1st of January 2009. This means they can never legally buy cigarettes.
The EU plans to cut electricity taxes and ease state aid rules to help households and businesses hit by higher energy prices linked to the Iran war. The European Commission says support must be targeted, temporary and timely. It aims to lower electricity costs related to oil and gas and encourage cleaner energy use.
