Welby accused of 'undermining biblical ethics' over sexuality
The former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has drawn criticism for remarks suggesting he was 'thick' to have opposed same-sex relationships, prompting concerns that he is undermining biblical ethics. His comments come during a sensitive period for the Church of England, which is still navigating the divisive Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process on human sexuality. Rev Jonathan Ford, a former General Synod member, warned that Welby’s words could further fracture the Church and diminish confidence in biblical morality. Ford noted that biblical ethics have historically shaped Western civilisation, and rejecting them leaves a moral vacuum. He said that many Anglicans globally hold conservative views, questioning where the Church of England stands amid growing liberal influence. At the General Synod’s meeting in York, LLF remained unresolved due to internal divisions and the absence of unified episcopal leadership. Ford also called for a 'year of national repentance’, urging the Church to recommit to Scripture, acknowledge past failings, and prioritise Christ-like living over institutional self-preservation.
France: prime minister proposes axing two public holidays
There has been widespread criticism after prime minister François Bayrou proposed eliminating two public holidays - Easter Monday and 8 May (Victory in Europe day) - to help reduce the national budget deficit. He argues that France’s debt is a critical threat, increasing by €5,000 every second, and that cutting holidays is part of a necessary strategy to recover €43.8 billion in savings. The proposal comes alongside other austerity measures, including freezing public spending, ending tax breaks for the wealthy, and reducing the civil service, while also increasing defence spending by €3.5 billion in 2026. His plan faces fierce opposition from the far-right and left-wing parties, with threats of a no-confidence vote which could topple the government, as happened to Bayrou’s predecessor. Critics have decried the holiday cuts as attacks on French heritage and workers' rights. Despite the political risks and deep parliamentary divisions, Bayrou insists the reforms are essential to preserve national stability. President Macron, although deeply unpopular, has consistently resisted suggestions that he should step down before the end of his second term, in 2027.
Türkiye: Kurdish fighters disarm, engage in peace process
On 11 July thirty Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) fighters publicly disarmed in Sulaimaniyah, northern Iraq, marking the start of a renewed peace process with Türkiye aimed at ending a forty-year conflict that has claimed around 40,000 lives. Following a call in February by jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan to end armed struggle, senior PKK leaders agreed to political engagement in April. The process may lead to amnesty for fighters and the restoration of political and cultural rights for Kurds within Türkiye. However, analysts warn that the Turkish government’s secrecy around the process raises questions about public support and long-term success. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in Iraq has so far remained neutral, though local parties may use the peace process for political gain. Meanwhile, the PKK has incentives to disarm, because it is militarily weaker than it was and is more marginalised. However, if the process fails, violence could return to Iraq’s Qandil Mountains, further destabilising the region and risking renewed conflict between the PKK and Turkish forces.
Israel bombs Syrian forces attacking a Druze area, then Damascus
Deadly violence has erupted in Suweida between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes, resulting in at least two hundred deaths, including children and civilians. The fighting, which began after the abduction of a Druze merchant, quickly escalated, prompting Syria's interim government to send troops into the previously autonomous Druze region. Israel launched airstrikes against these troops, claiming they were targeting the Druze, with whom Israel shares strong ties. The strikes drew international criticism and further inflamed tensions. Despite a ceasefire declared by Syria’s defence minister, reports emerged of government forces bombing Suweida, executing Druze civilians and looting homes. A Druze spiritual leader initially called for cooperation with authorities, but later urged resistance. Syria accused Israel of full responsibility for the violence, while the USA urged Israel to halt its strikes. The Israeli military has already carried out hundreds of strikes across Syria to destroy the country's military assets since the fall of the Assad regime. Breaking news: Israel has now bombed Damascus, targeting the presidential palace and the ministry of defence building. See
