BBC NEWS — Signed: BBC News

A fire at a bar in Bangkok killed at least 27 people and injured more than 60, with 22 in critical condition. The blaze broke out near the stage and spread rapidly; investigators are examining the cause and why it spread so quickly, amid past concerns over safety lapses in Thailand. Separately, the US military carried out a fourth wave of strikes against Iran, hitting dozens of targets to degrade Iran's ability to attack shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by striking US bases in Gulf states and claims the strait is closed, while the US insists it remains open. The price of oil spiked amid conflicting claims over the strait's status.

Researchers estimated that more than 2,700 people may have died from heat-related causes during the UK's unusually hot weather in May and June, with the majority during a June heatwave that reached 37.7°C in Norfolk. The study attributed 42% of those deaths to climate change. The Home Secretary announced legal steps to deport Shabir Ahmed, the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gangs, but Pakistan has indicated it will not accept him, complicating the process. Actor Sam Neill, known for Jurassic Park and other films, died suddenly at age 78, prompting tributes from political leaders and colleagues.

Wildfires burned in several countries: in southern Spain, at least 13 people died including five Britons, and 7,000 hectares were burned; in France, a large wildfire broke out in the Fontainebleau forest south of Paris; and in North Wales, a major incident was declared on Conway Mountain, leading to evacuations. Police investigating the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her home with serious injuries, arrested a 28-year-old man in South Yorkshire and said they were not looking for anyone else.