Today in Focus

Can you have a happy, healthy relationship of three? Today in Focus hears about good and bad throupling experiences. With reporting from Kitty Drake. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Canadian prime minister, Mark Carney, has welcomed the EU’s proposal for Canada to become the bloc’s first ‘associate member’, despite threats from Donald Trump over the plan. The US president said Washington could impose ‘very serious tariffs’ or halt trade if the EU went ahead with the idea. But in a defiant speech to the European parliament, Carney called for ‘deep cooperation’ and said polling showed the overwhelming majority of Canadians supported closer ties with Europe. Lucy Hough speaks to Europe correspondent Jon Henley – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The Swedish journalist Martin Gelin tells Helen Pidd about the impact the far right has had on Sweden’s politics over the last four years – and what the latest general election results could mean for the Nordic country’s future. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

All four supporting acts for the upcoming dates of Ed Sheeran’s tour have withdrawn in solidarity with fellow opener Macklemore. The American rapper was removed from Sheeran’s tour after comments made onstage in support of Palestine. Sheeran responded that venue owners – including Robert Kraft who owns the New England Patriots and its home stadium – had objected to Macklemore’s appearance on the tour. But after he had tried to negotiate with the venue owners “at length to build bridges,” ultimately the promoters made the decision to pull the plug. Artists who have pulled out include Finneas, Aaron Rowe and Beoga. Lucy Hough speaks to Guardian assistant opinion editor Jason Okundaye – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

At least five pupils at a village school in the West Bank have been killed in the last year by settlers and soldiers. Emma Graham-Harrison reports on how the school found itself on the frontline, while a teacher explains what life is like for staff and students.. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Three babies might have survived and others could have been protected if hospital staff had taken action over concerns about the nurse Lucy Letby, an inquiry has found. Lady Justice Thirlwall, who led the inquiry, found there was a ‘complete failure to protect babies on the neonatal unit’ at the Countess of Chester hospital. Letby is serving 15 whole-life prison terms for murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven more. The former neonatal nurse says she is innocent and is fighting to overturn her convictions. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to the Guardian’s north of England editor, Josh Halliday. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Reform UK have just been showered with £72m in donations by billionaires. What does that money buy and what will the party do with it? Peter Walker explains. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The actor Sydney Sweeney is under fire for ‘sexualising women’s sports’ in an ad campaign for US sports prediction company Novig, which features a series of images of her in various states of undress as she pretends to play different sports. The ad has been widely criticised by a number of sportswomen, including Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus who described it as ‘infuriating’ and a ‘kick in the teeth’ to women who have ‘spent decades perfecting their craft’. Sweeney has responded by saying the ad was about ‘embracing a fun idea’. Lucy Hough speaks to Guardian feature writer Elle Hunt – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

A series of figures in the tech world have been warning about – and even resigning over – the existential threat posed by AI. How worried should we be? With technology editor Robert Booth. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

25 years on from the terror attacks that killed almost 3,000 people in New York City, Washington DC and Pennsylvania, the dark legacy of September 11 continues to unfold in the US and across the world. A throughline can be drawn from that day in 2001 to much of the geopolitics and conflicts of today. Annie Kelly speaks to the Guardian’s international security correspondent, Jason Burke, about how 9/11 changed the world – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The UK foreign secretary has drawn rage and respect after announcing trade sanctions on Israeli settlers. Heather Stewart explains how – and why – Ed Miliband got tough. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Donald Trump has pledged a payment of $5,000 to every adult American citizen if the Republicans win in the November midterms. The outlandish proposal, which would cost over $1tn, immediately raised legal and ethical concerns. It comes as the president’s approval rating has hit a record low, hovering at about 38%. Lucy Hough speaks to global editor Devika Bhat – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Nurse Teun Toebes and filmmaker Jonathan de Jong argue for a radical new approach to treating – and giving freedom to – people with dementia, showcased in their film and book, Human Forever.. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The foreign secretary, Ed Miliband, is facing a backlash over the government’s sanctions against illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank after the chief rabbi, Ephraim Mirvis, said the safety of British Jews could be at risk. Miliband has rejected the warnings, emphasising that ministers can confront the actions of Benjamin Netanyahu’s government while also fighting antisemitism. US president Donald Trump, however, has failed to comment on the UK government’s action. Lucy Hough speaks to diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Today in Focus presenter Helen Pidd talks to former Reform insider Tim Montgomerie before heading to the 2026 Reform UK Conference to find out where the party may head next. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The UK has attacked ‘settler terrorism’ deployed in a campaign of ethnic cleansing in the West Bank, whilst announcing sweeping sanctions on trade with Israeli settlements in occupied Palestine. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband delivered the strongest condemnation of the actions of the Israeli government ever by a British government, including the disproportionate killings in Gaza of at least 70,000 people including 20,000 children. Lucy Hough speaks to chief Middle East correspondent Emma Graham-Harrison – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

From going undercover as a Playboy bunny to founding Ms Magazine, Steinem brought feminism into the US mainstream. Carter Sherman explains her legacy. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Far-right activists gathered in two disruptive demonstrations in Dover and Portsmouth over the weekend, attempting to obstruct asylum seekers arriving on small boats from France. Many wore all black and balaclavas. The action was seemingly organised by Daniel Thomas, an agitator better known as Danny Tommo, who has close ties with the far-right extremist Tommy Robinson. Thomas was recorded on the ground saying Portsmouth was now ‘ground zero’ for small boat crossings, and has threatened further action. Lucy Hough speaks to political correspondent Ben Quinn – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Katy McQue, who has spent years reporting on Meta and the potential harms its platforms pose to children, explains the tactics being used by prosecutors. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Across the world, hundreds of people have come to believe they have made extraordinary scientific discoveries with AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini. Others say their AI has ‘awakened’, or is leading them to a higher spiritual realm. The Guardian journalist Michael Safi investigates a phenomenon labelled ‘AI psychosis’, travelling to the US to meet two people who have been on weird journeys with their chatbots. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Reform UK has suspended two senior officials after they were filmed in an undercover operation appearing to attempt to get around electoral laws on foreign donations. The sting, by Channel 4 News and the investigative group Verbatim, was published on the eve of Nigel Farage’s party conference speech in Birmingham. Reform says it has launched an investigation into the actions of James Orr, the party’s head of policy, and Dan Jukes, a senior aide to Farage. Lucy Hough speaks to senior political correspondent Peter Walker – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

After last week’s devastating floods, the Guardian’s south Asia correspondent, Hannah Ellis-Petersen, tells Annie Kelly about her journey to some of Nepal’s worst-hit areas, and what she found there. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The UN has warned that the El Niño climate phenomenon is ‘supersizing before our eyes’. The event is forecast to be the largest in at least 1,000 years and will almost certainly shatter temperature records. After a summer of record-breaking heatwaves and extreme weather due to global heating, El Niño means 2027 is almost certain to be the hottest year ever recorded. Lucy Hough speaks to environment correspondent Damien Gayle – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Ulrich Siegmund, the charismatic young leader of the AfD party in Saxony-Anhalt, has been labelled Germany’s most dangerous man by Der Spiegel. John Kampfner explains why. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Iran has accused the US of a ‘war crime’ after a missile strike killed at least four people, including a young child, and injured 68 at a wedding at a private house in southern Iran. A month-long uneasy truce between the US and Iran appears to have collapsed after US strikes on Larak Island on Saturday in the strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded by launching drones and missiles on US bases across the Middle East, including Gulf States. Lucy Hough speaks to Middle East correspondent Will Christou – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Thirty years after Tupac Shakur’s death, a man has been found guilty of killing the hip-hop legend. William Shaw on the star’s life, legacy and untimely death. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

A British activist who was forcibly abducted by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank has been deported to the UK. The treatment of 22-year-old Finn Joughin comes after a surge of settler violence against Palestinian people in the West Bank that has been widely condemned internationally and also by many prominent figures within Israel. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s chief Middle East correspondent, Emma Graham-Harrison – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The Guardian’s chief culture writer Charlotte Higgins on why she was inspired to learn Ukrainian and what it taught her about its people. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Revisited: Guardian journalist Michael Safi looks into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the dangers and promises it holds for society. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Rescue efforts are continuing in Nepal and Tibet after flash floods that have killed hundreds and left many more missing. But fears that a lake formed by the landslide could overflow and cause fresh flooding, along with difficulty accessing disaster-hit areas, are hindering rescue and recovery missions. Lucy Hough speaks with south Asia correspondent Hannah Ellis-Petersen, who is in Nepal, about the situation on the ground - watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Revisited: Guardian journalist Michael Safi looks into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the dangers and promises it holds for society. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Hundreds of people are missing or have been killed after a catastrophic flash flood hit Nepal and Tibet on Wednesday. Entire villages have been destroyed, many of which are popular pilgrimage and trekking destinations for tourists. Lucy Hough talks to global editor Devika Bhat about how the devastating event unfolded – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Revisited: Guardian journalist Michael Safi looks into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the dangers and promises it holds for society. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Tributes have poured in for Dolly Parton, the pioneering country music singer, songwriter and actor, who has died aged 80. Stars including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey and Paul McCartney have paid tribute to one of the world’s greatest music artists, with many praising her lifelong philanthropy and advocacy for literacy and LGBTQ+ rights. Lucy Hough speaks to Guardian deputy features editor Jenny Stevens – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Revisited: Guardian journalist Michael Safi looks into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the dangers and promises it holds for society. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The White House has threatened sanctions on any country that trades with Iran in another bid to economically isolate the country, as US military efforts falter. Launching what he called Operation Economic Outcast, the US Treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, compared it with D-day. China, Iran’s biggest trading partner, has already signalled that it will not cooperate with Trump’s attack on the Iranian economy. Lucy Hough speaks to Julian Borger, senior international correspondent – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Revisited: Guardian journalist Michael Safi looks into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the dangers and promises it holds for society. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Andy Burnham is making his first foreign visit as prime minister to Ukraine, marking the country’s independence day. Burnham will use the trip to announce that the UK government will declassify information about missiles to help Ukraine build its own. Lucy Hough speaks to senior international correspondent Luke Harding – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Revisited: Guardian journalist Michael Safi looks into the world of artificial intelligence, exploring the dangers and promises it holds for society. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

One of Donald Trump’s closest and most devoted aides, Natalie Harp, has faced intense media scrutiny this week, after a Democratic senator, Jon Ossoff, name-checked her in a speech that went viral. So what do we know about Harp, who is often referred to as the ‘human printer’? And why is everybody talking about her relationship with Trump? Helen Pidd speaks to the Guardian’s international news editor, Paul Owen. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Our specialist panel on which books may help you put your phone away and get reading again. With Charlotte Northedge, David Shariatmadari and Rebecca Liu. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are planning to return to live in Britain, six years after leaving for the US: a decision that was subject to intense media scrutiny. The couple and their two children are expected to relocate later in August to a non-royal residence. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to senior national editor Aaron Sharp – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Helena Horton on why the government may decide to allow more oil and gas drilling in the North Sea. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The prime minister has announced a £442m plan to get rough sleepers off the streets by Christmas. It solidifies tackling homelessness as a central policy for Andy Burnham’s government, and gives voters a measure by which to judge his success – although without a concrete target for ministers to hit. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to social policy editor Patrick Butler – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Annie Kelly heads to Brick Lane to hear from residents campaigning against a massive datacentre on one of London’s most famous streets. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Russia has threatened the UK with ‘consequences’ after reports that British drones were used by Ukraine to strike targets on Russia’s mainland for the first time. The Ministry of Defence has rebuffed these threats, saying the UK is ‘committed to providing equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against Putin’s illegal invasion’. Annie Kelly speaks to senior international correspondent Luke Harding – watch on YouTube Luke’s new book Betrayal: Trump, Putin and the New Age of Conquest will be published next week. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Investigations correspondent Sirin Kale reports on the allegations of violence and sexual assault against author Christopher Berry-Dee. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner is on a diplomatic mission in the Middle East to meet Hamas officials and the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, in an attempt to salvage a ceasefire in Gaza. The talks come after Netanyahu rejected the US-backed 15-point peace plan for the territory in a rare public break with the Trump administration this month. Nosheen Iqbal speaks to global editor Devika Bhat – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

James Ellis Ford talks about being diagnosed with leukaemia and how making music helped him through one of the hardest periods of his life. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Former prison governor Judith Feline on the reality of our overcrowded prisons and Peter Walker on why it’s causing a headache for Andy Burnham. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Five years after the Taliban retook power, women inside the country explain how they have been silenced, while the Afghan journalist Zahra Joya asks why the world has looked away. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Farage has taken a high risk gamble by resigning and forcing a byelection in his constituency. Nosheen Iqbal heads to Clacton to find out how voters feel. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Last week Saudi Arabia’s wealth fund and a group of investors spent $55bn (£41bn) on Electronic Arts, the video games company behind the Sims, Madden NFL and Battlefield. Keith Stuart and George Osborn tell Annie Kelly why this soft-power move is worrying many in the industry. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Are gen Z the most financially savvy generation of them all? With senior economics correspondent Richard Partington and influencer James Beckett. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

With more than 7m pairs reportedly sold in 2025, Meta’s Ray-Ban smartglasses are fast becoming the world’s most popular new gadget. But while supporters say they are transforming photography and accessibility, others have labelled them ‘pervert glasses’, with some UK pubs and restaurants, including Wetherspoons, banning the technology from their premises. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s deputy Opinion editor Kirsty Major – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Jason Arday’s appointment as Cambridge’s youngest black professor made global headlines. Then questions about his meteoric rise began to snowball. Lanre Bakare reports.. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a former neo-Nazi activist, has been offered a role as an adviser to the Conservative party by Kemi Badenoch after he withdrew as a Tory candidate for next year’s local elections. The role will reportedly be focused on how young men become radicalised. Bonehill-Paine was convicted of harassing a Jewish MP and has previously described himself as a ‘nationalist, fascist, theorist and supporter of white rights’. He says he has carried out counter-extremism work since he was released from prison. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian political correspondent Ben Quinn – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

How did more than 70,000 migrants manage to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta all at once … and what will be the fallout? With reporting from Javier Jennings Mozo and Jennifer Rankin. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

At least 17 people were killed and more than 40 injured in another round of deadly Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Volodymyr Zelenskyy has pleaded for more air defence weapons, saying ballistic missile interceptors ‘could have saved the lives of those killed today’. For months, Ukraine has been warning about shortages after Donald Trump backtracked on his promise to let Ukraine manufacture missiles locally. In response to the attack, the EU’s Ursula von der Leyen said ‘Russia must pay’ – but will it? Lucy Hough talks to the Guardian’s Russia affairs correspondent, Pjotr Sauer. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Cameroon’s 93-year-old president has not been seen for many weeks. The Guardian’s Eromo Egbejule and Giovanni Wanneh tell Annie Kelly how the country is managing without its leader, and why Cameroonians still have hope for the next chapter. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Gianni Infantino’s reign as Fifa president is in severe peril after the collapse of his plans to sell off parts of the World Cup to private investment. Many Concacaf countries are considering following Europe’s lead by formally removing their support for Infantino, and there are widespread calls to remove him from his post. Lucy Hough speaks to columnist Jonathan Liew – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Reform UK’s finances have come under scrutiny like never before. What do we know about the party’s funding – and why do so many awkward questions remain for Nigel Farage? Anna Isaac explains. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Dozens of people died attempting to reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta after an estimated 50,000 crossed from Morocco last week. The incident has led to a political crisis in Spain and criticism from EU countries. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s European community affairs correspondent, Ashifa Kassam – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Guardian US southern bureau chief Olly Laughland tells the story of Calvin Duncan and a Republican party emboldened in Trump’s America. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Donald Trump has declared a breakthrough in negotiations over the disarmament of Hamas in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, but Israeli government officials have voiced scepticism over the deal. Lucy Hough speaks to Julian Borger, the Guardian’s senior international correspondent – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Guardian US beauty columnist Jessica DeFino explores the rise of ‘tweakments’ and cosmetic procedures – and the pressure it puts on everyone to get something done. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The US military has carried out a wave of airstrikes against Iran in response to Tehran targeting American bases in Jordan. The strikes were launched after Donald Trump vowed to hit Iran ‘very hard’ following a days-long pause in fighting. Iran has expanded its military strikes in the region, raising fears of an all-out war. Lucy Hough speaks to Guardian senior international reporter Peter Beaumont – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Paris correspondent Angelique Chrisafis reports from Bordeaux, as wildfires in the region and beyond cause the biggest peacetime evacuation in French history. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Fifa president Gianni Infantino has announced plans to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors in a new commercial entity worth $20bn. One of the leading would-be investors is Joshua Kushner, brother of Trump’s son-in-law Jared. The plans have prompted an immediate backlash – with Uefa accusing Fifa of trying to ‘sell football’s soul’. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian reporter Paul MacInnes – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Longtime Epstein associate Daniel Siad – himself accused of human trafficking and rape – was found dead last week. Where does that leave those pursuing justice? With former model Ebba Karlsson and journalist Amelia Gentleman. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Labour has overtaken Reform UK this week for the first time since March last year, according to polls. The ‘Burnham bounce’ comes two weeks into Andy Burnham’s tenure in No 10, during which he has made major announcements on the cost of living and localised education to reduce youth unemployment, and an announcement on social care is expected soon. Is this a turning point for the beleaguered Labour government – or simply a honeymoon for the new PM? Lucy Hough speaks to senior political correspondent Peter Walker. Watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

In the wake of the new PM’s bold pledge, Helen Pidd heads to a village for homeless people in Greater Manchester, where the former mayor first promised to take action. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Firefighters in France and Spain are facing another day battling wildfires that have resulted in hundreds of thousands of people being evacuated, with another heatwave expected to hit this week. French authorities have said this year’s wildfires, particularly the Gironde fire near the south-western city of Bordeaux, are ‘completely exceptional’. Lucy Hough speaks to Europe environment correspondent Ajit Niranjan – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The investigative journalist Lucas Amin reports on how the tech company Palantir won a £330m contract with the NHS … and what happened once its software was introduced. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

After a decade in the pop fringes, Charli xcx was propelled to global stardom by her 2024 album Brat. Then came an acid-green ‘brat summer’, a Glastonbury headline slot and ‘brat’ as Collins’s word of the year. But how do you follow up the album that made you a star? Charli’s latest album – Music, Fashion, Film – has now been released. And, as Guardian deputy music editor Laura Snapes tells Lucy Hough, it’s a pivot to guitar and a ‘meta masterpiece about the instability of identity’. Watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

South Asia correspondent Hannah Ellis-Petersen on the Cockroach movement – and the students driving India’s biggest protests in years. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Millionaires including former footballer Gary Lineker are asking Andy Burnham to tax their wealth more. More than 100 wealthy Brits have signed an open letter to the prime minister, saying: ‘We want you to tax us. We can afford it.’ So should the government introduce a wealth tax? And why is the idea getting more popular? Nosheen Iqbal speaks to columnist and senior economics commentator Aditya Chakrabortty – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Media critic Mark Lawson discusses with Nosheen Iqbal why even the BBC director general has lost faith in the current licence fee model, and explore what options the national broadcaster has to secure funding. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired his commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, in Ukraine’s biggest military shake-up in two years. Nationwide protests broke out after Zelenskyy sacked Mykhailo Fedorov as defence minister, who the Ukraine president says will now be brought back into government in a ‘prominent position’. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s senior international correspondent Luke Harding – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Journalist Amjed Tantesh talks about his project to teach Gaza’s children how to swim. With reporting from our chief Middle East correspondent, Emma Graham-Harrison. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The US has carried out fresh strikes on Iran after three American soldiers were killed in action. The Pentagon has admitted that nearly 100 US service members have also been wounded as Tehran responded to 10 consecutive nights of attacks. As peace talks mediated by Pakistan continue, Lucy Hough speaks to our senior international correspondent, Julian Borger – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Senior political correspondent Peter Walker and former No 10 press secretary Paul Harrison analyse Andy Burnham’s first day as PM. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Andy Burnham has become the sixth UK prime minister in a decade after a transfer of power from his predecessor Keir Starmer. In his first address outside Downing Street, he said his arrival in power would be a ‘circuit breaker’ moment for Britain and that his government would bring the ‘biggest changes in 40 years’. Lucy Hough speaks to political correspondent Alexandra Topping – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Tim Burrows goes back to Epping in Essex one year after protesters from across the country descended on the small town to demonstrate against asylum seekers being housed at the Bell hotel. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Christopher Nolan’s star-studded take on Homer’s Odyssey has received rave reviews from critics and is one of the most hotly anticipated films of the year. The three-hour Imax blockbuster has an estimated budget of $250m and a star-studded cast including Matt Damon, Zendaya and Tom Holland. But will it live up to expectations? Annie Kelly speaks to film editor Catherine Shoard. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Tom Greenhill, the chartered engineer behind the Heatwave Toolkit, provides tips on keeping your home cool in the heat; the Guardian’s Europe environment correspondent, Ajit Niranjan, reports on what governments across the continent are doing in response to this record-breaking summer. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

England have again suffered World Cup heartache, conceding two late goals that gave Argentina a dramatic 2-1 comeback win and a place in the final against Spain on Sunday. Many have blamed manager Thomas Tuchel’s substitution decisions for the defeat. So did his tactics ultimately backfire? Annie Kelly speaks to sports columnist Jonathan Liew – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Today in Focus hears from friends, colleagues and mentors of Andy Burnham to find out more about the man soon to be prime minister. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Sixteen- and 17-year-olds face an overnight social media curfew in an extension of the government’s social media ban for under-16s. Under the plan, aimed at reducing online harms, certain apps would be blocked by default from midnight to 6am. But the curfew will not be mandatory and teenagers can opt out, so will it achieve anything? Annie Kelly speaks to social affairs correspondent Jessica Murray – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

When Mark Lanier and his young client Kaley faced Meta and Google in an LA courtroom earlier this year, it seemed a bigger battle than David v Goliath. Lanier, however, was determined to prove the companies had not just stumbled into a youth mental health crisis, but had helped to engineer it. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The US government has been forced to pay billions in refunds to companies that were hit by Donald Trump’s ‘liberation day’ tariffs. The US has paid out $81bn (£61bn) this fiscal year after the supreme court ruled the tariffs were illegal. Lucy Hough speaks to international editor Chris Michael – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Sperm counts are in decline worldwide, and testosterone levels are said to be plunging, but male infertility still carries a stigma. Prof Michael Carroll on what every man should know. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Counter-terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the death of the former MP and Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe, in light of ‘new information and evidence’. A 28-year old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s head of national news, Archie Bland – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Senior China correspondent Amy Hawkins on China’s embrace of AI, from medical avatars to food delivery drones and state surveillance. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

There is just one week to go until the winner of the World Cup is crowned, and it has been a memorable tournament, not least due to the extraordinary intervention by Donald Trump this week that shocked the football world. Lucy Hough speaks to global sports business correspondent Matt Hughes – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Are the disappearances or deaths of 11 US scientists really linked in a nefarious plot? Or just a conspiracy theory with roots in a bizarre broadcast that rocked Britain in the 1970s?. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The US president has said the truce with Iran is ‘over’ amid 48 hours of intense strikes. In the days leading to this escalation, three tankers were attacked by Iran in the strait of Hormuz, raising questions about the clarity of the ceasefire agreement signed in June. The US military’s attacks occurred during the week-long funeral of Iran’s former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, which drew millions on to the streets. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s senior international correspondent Julian Borger – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

Political correspondent Ben Quinn talks about the forthcoming byelection in Clacton after all Reform’s serious rivals declined to take part. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>

The US president is in combative mood as Nato leaders meet for a two-day summit in Ankara. There are divisions over Russia’s war in Ukraine, defence spending, and the US-Israel war in Iran with signs of the fragile ceasefire collapsing. The Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is holding talks with leaders as he rallies the European cause against Russia’s war that has reached the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, as Nato allies present an increasingly united front against an unreliable US. Lucy Hough speaks to the Guardian’s central and eastern Europe correspondent Shaun Walker – watch on YouTube. Help support our independent journalism at <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/infocus">theguardian.com/infocus</a>