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‘Like mice in a cage’: Inside Europe’s prison overcrowding crisis

‘Like mice in a cage’: Inside Europe’s prison overcrowding crisis

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Belgium is facing a serious problem with prison overcrowding, with more inmates than the prisons can hold. Many prisoners live in cramped and unhealthy conditions, and prisons struggle with staff shortages and safety issues. The situation is becoming worse due to recent policy changes and longer detention times.

Key Facts

  • Belgium has 13,733 inmates but capacity for only 11,064 as of May 2024.
  • Some cells of about 9 square meters hold 3 to 4 prisoners.
  • Overcrowding in European prisons increased after the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Prisoners can spend 22 to 23 hours a day locked inside their cells.
  • Medical care for prisoners may take months to receive.
  • Prison staff face burnout and injuries, worsening staff shortages.
  • Law changes in 2023 require enforcing all sentences up to 3 years in prison rather than electronic monitoring.
  • Average jail time in Belgium increased by nearly 40% over five years, now about 10 months.
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Al Jazeera
Border, peace, democracy: Myanmar president's India visit is closely watched

Border, peace, democracy: Myanmar president's India visit is closely watched

June 02, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing visited India for five days, meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss trade, border security, and peace. This is his first trip abroad after becoming president in April, and the visit is closely watched due to Myanmar’s ongoing conflict and political situation following a military coup in 2021.

Key Facts

  • Myanmar and India share a 1,643 km (1,021-mile) border, affecting security and trade in India’s northeast.
  • Min Aung Hlaing led a military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, removing the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi.
  • The coup sparked nationwide protests and a civil war that has killed thousands and displaced millions in Myanmar.
  • Many refugees from Myanmar’s conflict have fled to India’s northeast states like Mizoram and Manipur.
  • Myanmar held elections in late 2025 and early 2026, widely criticized as unfair and favoring military-backed candidates.
  • Min Aung Hlaing was elected president in April 2026, in a parliament dominated by military loyalists.
  • Modi and Min Aung Hlaing discussed democracy, peace, and security during the visit. India supports a peaceful and inclusive process in Myanmar.
  • Both leaders agreed to prevent the use of Myanmar’s territory for activities harmful to either country’s security.
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BBC World
UK government has failed Palestinian people, says senior Labour MP

UK government has failed Palestinian people, says senior Labour MP

June 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Emily Thornberry, a senior Labour MP and chair of the foreign affairs committee, criticized the UK government for not doing enough to support Palestinians. She called for stronger actions against Israeli settlements and criticized President Donald Trump’s handling of the Gaza ceasefire.

Key Facts

  • Emily Thornberry said the UK government has failed the Palestinian people.
  • She said the government should make it economically difficult for Israel to expand settlements.
  • Thornberry criticized President Trump for declaring a ceasefire in Gaza but then not following up to help.
  • She recalled that the UK recognized Palestine as a state over eight months ago but has taken no further steps.
  • Over 72,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict, and deaths continue during the ceasefire.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel plans to take over 70% of Gaza.
  • Thornberry urged the UK to stop importing goods from illegal settlements and to sanction those involved.
  • She called for reviving the international group that backs Palestinian recognition and taking stronger action against settlement expansion.
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Guardian World
Norway salvages 18th-century shipwreck, recovers porcelain and chandelier

Norway salvages 18th-century shipwreck, recovers porcelain and chandelier

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Archaeologists found and recovered items from a shipwreck dating back to the 18th century, located 600 meters deep in the Skagerrak Strait near southern Norway. The recovered goods include Chinese porcelain, European items, textiles, grain, and parts of a chandelier.

Key Facts

  • The shipwreck is from the 18th century.
  • It was discovered 600 meters deep in the Skagerrak Strait off southern Norway.
  • Items recovered include blue and white Chinese porcelain bowls and goblets.
  • European goods were also found, such as textiles and parts of a chandelier.
  • Grain was recovered alongside the other artifacts.
  • Experts are studying the items to learn more about the ship’s history.
  • The site offers a mix of Asian and European trade goods, showing historical trade connections.
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Al Jazeera
Paralympian could become first astronaut with disability to live and work in space

Paralympian could become first astronaut with disability to live and work in space

June 02, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

John McFall, a Paralympian and NHS surgeon who lost a leg in an accident, is moving closer to becoming the first physically disabled astronaut to live and work in space. He was selected by the European Space Agency for a special study and may soon fly to the International Space Station with funding from a new UK-US space partnership.

Key Facts

  • John McFall lost his leg at age 19 in a motorcycle accident.
  • He won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games.
  • McFall was chosen by the European Space Agency in 2022 for research on disabled astronauts.
  • A new UK government deal with US company Vast can help fund his spaceflight.
  • He was declared medically fit for a long mission on the International Space Station last year.
  • McFall will study how the body and prosthetics work in zero gravity.
  • Training includes survival skills, science classes, and practice flights simulating weightlessness.
  • McFall believes his Paralympic and surgeon experience helps him with astronaut challenges.
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BBC Top Stories
Tories accuse Starmer of not revealing all his Mandelson messages – UK politics live

Tories accuse Starmer of not revealing all his Mandelson messages – UK politics live

June 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK Conservative party demanded the release of messages between Labour leader Keir Starmer and Peter Mandelson amid a police investigation related to Jeffrey Epstein. Some messages were withheld or redacted, leading Labour officials to claim that important conversations, especially those involving Starmer and Mandelson, might have been deleted or deliberately hidden.

Key Facts

  • The Conservative party forced the release of messages involving Peter Mandelson through a parliamentary motion.
  • The documents released did not show new proof about Mandelson’s Epstein connection, with some Epstein-related material kept back due to police reasons.
  • Tory media highlighted internal Labour comments about taxing policies, using them as political attacks.
  • Labour shadow minister Alex Burghart said many messages had large sections redacted or missing.
  • Some senior Labour figures reported no message records with Mandelson, suggesting deletions.
  • Conservative official Darren Jones could not confirm that Starmer had not deleted any messages.
  • The controversy relates to questions over transparency in Labour’s handling of the Mandelson files.
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Guardian World
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Watch: Explosion at fireworks factory in Malta

Watch: Explosion at fireworks factory in Malta

June 02, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

An explosion happened at a fireworks factory in Naxxar, Malta. Two men nearby were slightly hurt and taken to the hospital, but no workers were at the site during the blast. Authorities are investigating the incident.

Key Facts

  • The explosion occurred on Monday at a fireworks factory in Naxxar, Malta.
  • Two men were in fields near the factory and suffered minor injuries.
  • Both injured men were taken to hospital for treatment.
  • All licensed workers linked to the factory were accounted for and were not on site at the time.
  • Large smoke clouds were seen after the explosion.
  • Malta Police Force confirmed the details and is conducting an inquiry.
  • Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed concern for those affected.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Russia launches 'horrific' drone, missile strikes on Ukraine, killing 13: Officials

Russia launches 'horrific' drone, missile strikes on Ukraine, killing 13: Officials

June 02, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Russia launched a large attack using missiles and drones on Ukraine, mainly targeting Kyiv and other regions. At least 13 people died and over 100 were injured, with significant damage to buildings including medical facilities. Ukraine’s leaders called for more help from other countries to defend against these attacks.

Key Facts

  • Russia launched 73 missiles and 656 drones against Ukraine.
  • Ukrainian forces intercepted 40 missiles and 602 drones during the attack.
  • At least 13 people were killed, including four in Kyiv and nine in Dnipro (one was a child).
  • The attacks caused serious damage, including the collapse of a nine-story building in Kyiv’s Podilskyi district.
  • Four medical facilities in Kyiv were damaged during the strike.
  • Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy asked for support from the United States and other partners, especially missile defense systems like the Patriot system.
  • Ukrainian officials called the attack a sign that Russia will keep striking unless better defenses are provided.
  • Russia’s Defense Ministry described the attack as a large strike using various advanced weapons.
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ABC News
Musket balls and a burnt hull: evidence of real pirates of the Caribbean found in Bahamas

Musket balls and a burnt hull: evidence of real pirates of the Caribbean found in Bahamas

June 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

An international team of archaeologists has found six shipwrecks in Nassau harbour, Bahamas, linked to real pirates from the late 1600s to early 1700s. These discoveries include weapons and a burned wooden ship hull that may have belonged to famous pirates like Henry Avery.

Key Facts

  • Nassau in the Bahamas was a pirate hideout from the 1690s to the 1720s.
  • The team found six shipwrecks, three dating from the "golden age of piracy."
  • One wreck is a burned wooden ship hull, possibly from pirate Henry Avery’s flagship, the Fancy.
  • Archaeologists discovered swivel guns, an iron cannon, 25 lead musket balls, and a sword sharpening stone.
  • Pirates destroyed ships by burning them to hide their crimes.
  • This is the first official dive in a closed zone of Nassau harbour to find pirate shipwrecks.
  • The seabed had been dredged before, but the team still found well-preserved artifacts.
  • The expedition faced risks like strong tides and sharks while exploring the shipwrecks.
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Guardian World
China and Russia Will Have Their Say in Who Wins a US-Iran Endurance Match

China and Russia Will Have Their Say in Who Wins a US-Iran Endurance Match

June 02, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

China and Russia are playing important roles in the ongoing conflict and negotiations between the United States and Iran. Both countries maintain strong economic and diplomatic ties with Iran, which helps Tehran withstand pressure from the U.S. even as talks face setbacks.

Key Facts

  • China and Russia support Iran economically and diplomatically but are not formal military allies.
  • Iran uses a strategy called the "mosaic" doctrine to survive attacks and launch missile and drone strikes in the region.
  • President Trump aims to avoid a major war with Iran while managing political pressures at home, including upcoming elections.
  • U.S. efforts to block Iranian ports have worsened Iran’s economic problems.
  • Iran’s demands, such as stopping attacks in Lebanon, delay U.S.-Iran negotiations.
  • Tehran is strengthening ties with China and Russia to prepare for possible continued conflict.
  • There is a possibility that Iran could outlast the U.S. in a prolonged showdown.
  • The conflict affects global energy prices due to its impact on the Strait of Hormuz shipping route.
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Newsweek
Mozambique says 5 citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

Mozambique says 5 citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

At least five Mozambican citizens were killed in xenophobic attacks in South Africa during protests against undocumented immigrants. Hundreds of Mozambicans were affected, with many seeking safety or returning home.

Key Facts

  • Five Mozambican nationals died directly because of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
  • Two additional Mozambicans died in a road accident while traveling back to Mozambique.
  • About 800 Mozambicans were caught up in violence in Mossel Bay, South Africa.
  • Around 300 Mozambicans returned to Mozambique after the attacks.
  • More than 500 Mozambicans were sheltered in a safe place in Western Cape province, with repatriation underway.
  • South African police are investigating two deaths in Mossel Bay but have not confirmed if they relate to the protests.
  • The region has seen recent anti-migrant protests similar to those in Johannesburg, Durban, and Eastern Cape.
  • South Africa has had repeated xenophobic violence since 2008, with serious flare-ups in 2015 and 2021.
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Al Jazeera
China opens its markets to African exports. Who benefits?

China opens its markets to African exports. Who benefits?

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

China has removed tariffs on many African imports for two years to increase trade. This move aims to give China access to Africa’s natural resources while helping African countries grow their industries and create jobs.

Key Facts

  • China lifted tariffs on many African goods for the next two years.
  • China wants to secure resources from Africa.
  • African countries aim to develop industries and add more value to their products.
  • China has been funding African infrastructure like roads, railways, and ports for over ten years.
  • China is Africa’s biggest trading partner.
  • China exports more goods to Africa than it imports from Africa.
  • Many African countries still mainly export raw materials and import finished products.
  • The trade growth happens as China increases its presence in Africa and the U.S. reduces its involvement there.
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Satellite Image Shows Possible Chinese Structure on Disputed Reef

Satellite Image Shows Possible Chinese Structure on Disputed Reef

June 02, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Satellite images show a shiny object near the entrance of Scarborough Shoal's lagoon in the South China Sea, raising concerns about China possibly building a new structure. The area is disputed and controlled by China since 2012, and Philippine officials are still investigating what the object is.

Key Facts

  • The object appeared in satellite photos taken between May 26 and 28.
  • It is about 10 meters (32 feet) wide but could be floating or fixed.
  • Scarborough Shoal is also called Bajo de Masinloc by the Philippines and Huangyan Island by China.
  • China has controlled the shoal since a 2012 standoff with the Philippines.
  • China has a coast guard presence, stops Philippine patrols, and blocks Philippine fishers there.
  • If the object is a permanent structure, it might go against an agreement from 2002 that asks countries not to change the status of the disputed areas.
  • Philippine Defense Secretary said there is information about new Chinese structures but no confirmation yet.
  • The Philippines’ National Security Council is leading the investigation.
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Newsweek
Senegal president names government, boycotted by ally-turned-rival

Senegal president names government, boycotted by ally-turned-rival

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye named a new government including some members of Ousmane Sonko’s party, Pastef. However, Sonko, who was recently fired as prime minister and is now parliament speaker, said his party will not join the new government due to disagreements.

Key Facts

  • President Faye fired Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolved the previous government less than two weeks ago.
  • Sonko was elected speaker of Senegal’s parliament by his allies in a vote the opposition boycotted.
  • Sonko’s party, Pastef, controls 130 of the 165 seats in Senegal’s parliament.
  • President Faye named Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lo, a senior economist, as the new prime minister.
  • The new government includes some Pastef members but lacks several senior figures from Sonko’s group.
  • Sonko said Pastef will not participate in or be represented in the new government.
  • The split follows disagreements between Faye and Sonko over leadership and the future role of Pastef.
  • Sonko was barred from running for president due to a defamation conviction but remains a popular leader among young Senegalese.
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Al Jazeera
EU agrees deal for deporting migrants to third-country 'return hubs'

EU agrees deal for deporting migrants to third-country 'return hubs'

June 02, 2026 • France24

Summary

The European Union agreed on a plan to allow countries to send migrants who have been ordered to leave the EU to special "return hubs" in other countries. The plan is not final yet and still needs approval from EU governments and the European Parliament. Some human rights groups worry that the plan could lead to harsh treatment of migrants.

Key Facts

  • The EU deal lets countries deport migrants to centers outside the EU called "return hubs."
  • These hubs can be in countries where the migrants have no personal ties.
  • The deal is part of stricter migration policies despite fewer migrants arriving irregularly last year.
  • The legislation needs formal approval by EU governments and the European Parliament.
  • Human rights groups say the plan could lead to increased detention and deportation abuses.
  • The rules would extend how long migrants can be detained and allow home searches and biometric data collection.
  • EU officials say only 20% of people ordered to leave the EU currently actually depart.
  • The EU has not named which countries might host these return hubs.
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France24
Mozambique says five citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

Mozambique says five citizens killed in ‘xenophobic attacks’ in South Africa

June 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Five people from Mozambique died in attacks in South Africa linked to protests against illegal immigration. Many Mozambican nationals were affected by violence in Mossel Bay, and efforts are underway to safely send them back to Mozambique.

Key Facts

  • Five Mozambican citizens were killed in xenophobic attacks in Mossel Bay, South Africa.
  • Two additional Mozambicans died in a road accident while returning home.
  • Around 800 Mozambicans were caught up in the violence; 300 left South Africa on their own.
  • About 500 people are in a safe location in South Africa's Western Cape province awaiting return.
  • South African police are investigating the deaths of two men in Mossel Bay but did not confirm their citizenship.
  • The area’s mayor expressed concern over deaths, burned homes, and displaced families due to the attacks.
  • South Africa has a history of xenophobic violence, often targeting undocumented African migrants blamed for crime and job competition.
  • Several African countries have urged their citizens in South Africa to be careful, and some have already arranged evacuations.
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Guardian World
Middle East crisis live: Conflict continues in Lebanon despite Trump hailing Israeli-Hezbollah de-escalation

Middle East crisis live: Conflict continues in Lebanon despite Trump hailing Israeli-Hezbollah de-escalation

June 02, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Fighting continues in Lebanon despite an agreement to reduce violence between Israel and Hezbollah. President Donald Trump praised the deal, but clashes and military actions are still happening in the region.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced a de-escalation agreement where Hezbollah pledged not to attack Israel, and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu agreed to pull back troops preparing to attack Beirut.
  • Lebanon’s embassy said the agreement does not end the conflict but calls for Israel to stop strikes on Beirut and Hezbollah to halt attacks on Israel.
  • Despite the agreement, Israeli forces intercepted projectiles from Lebanon, and ground operations continue in southern Lebanon near the Zahrani River.
  • Hezbollah called for a full ceasefire before Israeli troops withdraw but did not confirm stopping strikes on Israel.
  • Lebanon plans to discuss expanding the ceasefire in talks with Israel in Washington.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guards threatened to open new battle fronts and keep the strategic Strait of Hormuz closed if the offensive continues.
  • Iran’s foreign minister warned that a violation in one area violates the overall ceasefire with the US.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will testify before Congress about the war and budget while the conflict impacts oil prices and the global economy.
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Body found after river search for missing boy, 11

Body found after river search for missing boy, 11

June 02, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Police found a body after searching the River Don in Mexborough for 11-year-old Mackenzie Swift, who went missing over the weekend. The boy was last seen entering the river on Saturday evening, and his family has been informed and offered support.

Key Facts

  • Mackenzie Swift, 11 years old, went into the River Don near Ferry Boat Lane in Mexborough around 8 p.m. on Saturday.
  • Police and volunteer teams, including underwater divers and mountain rescuers, searched for Mackenzie.
  • The search ended shortly before 11 p.m. on Monday when a body was found.
  • Formal identification of the body has not yet taken place, but the family has been notified.
  • Mackenzie is the 16th person in the UK to die after getting into difficulty in open water during recent hot weather.
  • South Yorkshire Police expressed sympathy to the family and the local community.
  • The incident has affected Mackenzie’s school and the wider community.
  • Police thanked the local community for their support during the search.
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At least nine people killed, dozens wounded in Russian attacks on Ukraine

At least nine people killed, dozens wounded in Russian attacks on Ukraine

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Russian forces launched missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, killing at least nine people and injuring dozens. Ukrainian officials reported strikes in Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, and other regions, targeting military and infrastructure sites.

Key Facts

  • At least nine people died and dozens were wounded due to Russian missile and drone strikes in Ukraine.
  • Russia launched 656 drones and 73 missiles overnight, according to Ukraine’s air force.
  • Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported four deaths and 58 injuries in the capital during the attack.
  • Five people were killed and 25 wounded in Dnipro; Kharkiv saw 10 wounded, including a child.
  • Russia said the attacks targeted Ukraine’s military-industrial complex and key infrastructure.
  • A Ukrainian drone strike killed one person in Russia’s Kursk region near the border.
  • A drone attack caused a fire at an oil refinery in Krasnodar, Russia.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned of a possible large-scale Russian attack days before the strikes.
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Iran war day 95: Trump pushes Lebanon truce after Tehran vows to end talks

Iran war day 95: Trump pushes Lebanon truce after Tehran vows to end talks

June 02, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump said that Israel and Hezbollah agreed to stop fighting to reduce violence after Israeli attacks on Beirut. Iran warned it might stop talks with the US if Israel keeps attacking Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire talk, military actions and political tensions continue in the region.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced an agreement between Israel and Hezbollah to halt hostilities.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered attacks on Beirut’s southern suburbs but said attacks would continue if Hezbollah kept attacking Israeli cities.
  • Iran’s chief negotiator warned that Tehran could stop negotiations with the US if Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon continues.
  • Iran’s foreign minister claimed the ceasefire agreement between Iran and the US covers Lebanon and the wider region.
  • US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Trump’s handling of the war, worrying about risks to US troops and economic effects.
  • Congresswoman Ilhan Omar called for an end to US military aid to Israel, accusing Israel of committing atrocities.
  • Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir opposed stopping attacks on Beirut and urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to resist US pressure.
  • Israel carried out airstrikes in southern Lebanon, injuring civilians, while Hezbollah reported multiple attacks against Israeli forces in response.
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