France is facing an increasing number of large and dangerous forest fires due to extreme weather conditions, which started earlier than usual this year. The government is currently deploying all available resources to combat the blazes, but questions remain regarding the long-term effectiveness of these efforts.
Spain expects to welcome 100 million foreign tourists this year, according to Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu. Despite concerns regarding rising summer temperatures and wildfires, the country continues to see growth in mass tourism.
French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his solidarity with those affected by wildfires in southern France, which have led to the evacuation of thousands of people. He also thanked emergency services and local officials for their efforts while urging the public to remain vigilant.
A 35-year-old Dutch crypto entrepreneur who traveled to Pakistan for business was kidnapped and gang-raped. She managed to escape after the vehicle carrying her and one of her attackers was involved in a crash.
Jaap van Delden, the former RIVM vaccination program director, testified that no contingency plan existed for administering COVID-19 vaccinations when it became clear that general practitioners could not handle the task. This admission was made during his questioning by the parliamentary committee investigating the government's response to the pandemic.
VVD council member Dennis Kornet has called for an end to restrictive policies in Haarlem, such as bans on snack bars. He argues that the city should prioritize entrepreneurial freedom to restore its positive reputation.