European Union

The debate following star footballer Mesut Özil's resignation from the German national team continues. After a heated public discussion over his controversial photograph with Turkey's President Erdoğan, Özil had issued a statement lambasting the German Football Association and citing the prevalence of racism and a lack of respect. The way the affair has been dealt with speaks volumes about the situation in Germany, commentators conclude.

The number of victims of the wildfires in the Athens area has risen to 74 according to the fire department in Greece. Several EU countries have offered their help and Italy and Romania are sending water-bomber planes. EU Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker twittered that no effort would be spared to help Greece. But not all commentators are moved by Europe's show of solidarity.

Two suspected IS terrorists who grew up in Britain are to go on trial in the US. Contrary to expectations London has sought no assurances that Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh, known as the Islamic State "Beatles", will not receive the death penalty. British media are angered by the government's stance.

European courts have repeatedly handed down sentences to sex offenders that the public considers too lenient. Commentators have focussed recently on cases in Spain and Turkey. They call for the offenders to receive just punishment rather than being given lenient sentences on the grounds of extenuating circumstances.

Tehran has responded to a tweet in which US President Trump threatened Iran with war. Trump is the biggest threat to his country and the international community, an advisor to Iranian President Rouhani stated. The US president must be extremely careful in his dealings with Iran, commentators warn.

In connection with reports of a Polish 'waste mafia' earning money with garbage, the Commission announced that it would monitor the situation. However, is emphasized that enforcement is the responsibility of the member states. EURACTIV Poland reports.