Netherlands

News summary for Thursday, July 23, 2026

Heatwave 🌡️

Heatwave grips Europe as international tensions rise

Much of Europe is currently experiencing extreme heat, with some regions also facing severe thunderstorms. This weather phenomenon is linked to research suggesting that climate change is intensifying evaporation conditions, leading to increased risks during heatwaves and contributing to wildfires in southern Europe.

Meanwhile, international affairs are marked by escalating tensions. New sanctions against Russia have been agreed upon by the EU, though with a compromise regarding Russian LNG transport. The Red Sea remains a focal point of concern following Houthi attacks on oil tankers, leading to a significant surge in oil prices and increased US military action against Iran.

Domestically, a significant development involves tax refunds for box 3 tax payers, which is being hailed as a substantial financial gain for many. In other news, the remains of babies and children have been discovered at an Irish institution, and a shocking incident involving orcas attacking fish with extreme force has been captured on video.

Top stories

Extreme Heat and Weather Events Across Europe

Europe is grappling with extreme heat, while also facing severe thunderstorms. Research indicates that climate change is exacerbating evaporation conditions, leading to increased risk during heatwaves and contributing to wildfires.

Escalation in Red Sea and US-Iran Tensions

The Red Sea is experiencing increased instability due to Houthi attacks on oil tankers, causing oil prices to approach $100 per barrel. In response, the US is intensifying its military actions against Iran, using its most powerful bomber.

EU Agrees on New Sanctions Against Russia

The European Union has reached an agreement on new sanctions against Russia. A compromise was made allowing Greek tankers to continue transporting Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) for the time being, despite initial resistance.

de Volkskrant EU Agrees on New Sanctions Against Russia, Greek Tankers Can Still Transport… ↗

Remains of Babies and Children Found at Irish Institution

The skeletal remains of 22 babies and children have been discovered at a former institution in Ireland. This finding sheds light on historical child welfare practices and the treatment of children in such facilities.

NU.nl Remains of 22 Babies and Children Found at Irish Institution ↗

Tax Refunds for Box 3 Taxpayers Announced

The Dutch Tax Administration will be refunding overpaid box 3 taxes, which is expected to be a significant financial gain for many taxpayers. The development is being described as a 'huge windfall' for those affected.

De Telegraaf 'Huge windfall' for victims of box 3 tax: 'I'll deposit the money in my… ↗

Tour de France: Pogacar's Narrow Escape and Team Member's Struggle

Tadej Pogacar managed to avoid an incident during the Tour de France, but it appears he may have lost a key teammate who reportedly struggled significantly during the stage. The stage was described as chaotic and life-threatening.

Bizarre Orca Behavior: Fish Exploding from Attack Force

A remarkable video has captured orcas attacking fish with such extreme force that they explode. Researchers speculate this behavior may be for sport.

AD Bizarre Video: Orcas Brutally Attack Fish Causing Them to Explode ↗