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FIFA subpoenaed over World Cup ticket practices

FIFA subpoenaed over World Cup ticket practices

Summary

New York and New Jersey have issued subpoenas to FIFA as part of an investigation into the ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup. Authorities are looking into claims that ticket prices have increased sharply and that fans were given incorrect information about where their seats would be.

Key Facts

  • FIFA has been subpoenaed by New York and New Jersey authorities.
  • The investigation focuses on ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup.
  • Officials are concerned about rapidly rising ticket costs.
  • There are reports that fans were misinformed about the exact locations of their seats.
  • The inquiry aims to ensure transparency and fairness in ticket sales for the event.
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5 villagers missing in a flooded Laos cave for more than a week have been found alive, rescuers say

5 villagers missing in a flooded Laos cave for more than a week have been found alive, rescuers say

Summary

Five villagers trapped in a flooded cave in Laos for over a week have been found alive, while two others remain missing. Rescue teams from Laos and Thailand are continuing the search in difficult conditions.

Key Facts

  • Seven villagers entered a cave in Xaisomboun province, Laos, on May 19.
  • Heavy rains caused flash flooding that blocked the cave exit.
  • Five villagers have been found alive inside the cave.
  • Two villagers are still missing, and rescuers continue to search.
  • Thai rescue workers, including experienced divers, joined the operation.
  • The cave is in a remote, mountainous area about 75 miles north of Vientiane.
  • Reaching the cave entrance requires a steep hike and is narrow and rocky.
  • Locals often visited this cave to look for gold despite warnings from authorities about safety risks.
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Man accused of hurling rock at rare seal was assaulted, lawyer says

Man accused of hurling rock at rare seal was assaulted, lawyer says

Summary

A tourist from Washington state, Igor Lytvynchuk, is accused of throwing a rock at an endangered Hawaiian monk seal in Maui. He faces charges for harassing a protected animal and has reported being assaulted and threatened after the incident.

Key Facts

  • Igor Lytvynchuk, 38, is charged with harassing a protected Hawaiian monk seal.
  • The seal targeted is an adult male known as "R404."
  • A video shows Lytvynchuk throwing a coconut-sized rock near the seal’s head at a Maui beach.
  • Lytvynchuk said he was trying to protect sea turtles and mistook the seal for an aggressive sea lion.
  • He plans to appear in U.S. District Court in Honolulu for his case.
  • After the incident, Lytvynchuk was physically assaulted and received threats, including a package with feces at his home.
  • Hawaiian monk seals are critically endangered, with only about 1,600 left in the wild.
  • If convicted, Lytvynchuk could face up to one year in prison and fines up to $70,000 combined under U.S. laws protecting endangered species and marine mammals.
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Muslim pilgrims participate in stone-throwing ritual on third day of Hajj

Muslim pilgrims participate in stone-throwing ritual on third day of Hajj

Summary

Over one million Muslim pilgrims are taking part in a traditional stone-throwing ritual on the third day of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mina, Saudi Arabia. The ritual involves throwing small stones at stone pillars to represent rejecting evil.

Key Facts

  • The ritual is part of the Hajj pilgrimage, a major religious event for Muslims.
  • Pilgrims throw pebbles at three stone pillars called Jamarat.
  • The act symbolizes the stoning of the devil.
  • This is done to show refusal to give in to temptation or evil.
  • More than one million Muslims join this ritual each year.
  • The event takes place in Mina, near Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
  • The ritual is a key part of the Hajj, which attracts millions of pilgrims worldwide.
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Backrooms review – Kane Parsons’ icily disturbing horror rewrites the genre rulebook

Backrooms review – Kane Parsons’ icily disturbing horror rewrites the genre rulebook

Summary

"Backrooms" is a horror movie directed by Kane Parsons, based on his web series and written by Will Soodik. The story follows Clark, a failed architect who discovers a secret, endless maze of strange rooms behind a wall in his discount furniture store, leading to eerie and supernatural experiences.

Key Facts

  • Kane Parsons directs his first feature film with "Backrooms," based on his own web series.
  • The screenplay is by Will Soodik.
  • The film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Clark, a troubled former architect, and Renate Reinsve as Mary, his therapist.
  • Clark works at a large furniture store and sleeps there, living a difficult life.
  • He discovers a hidden wall leading to an endless labyrinth of mysterious rooms called the "backrooms."
  • The backrooms show strange, alternative realities and are difficult to escape.
  • The film uses a mix of real sets and digital effects to create a creepy, oppressive atmosphere.
  • Cinematography gives the film a yellowish, dim light like in malls and offices, enhancing the eerie feeling.
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South Korea detains dissident who fled China in rubber boat

South Korea detains dissident who fled China in rubber boat

Summary

Dong Guangping, a Chinese activist and former police officer, fled China by crossing the sea in a small rubber boat and was detained by South Korean authorities. He faces investigation in South Korea for immigration violations while human rights groups urge that he not be sent back to China, where he risks persecution.

Key Facts

  • Dong Guangping escaped China in a rubber boat after 30 hours at sea and was found by South Korea’s coast guard.
  • He is under investigation in South Korea for suspected immigration violations and may be referred to prosecutors.
  • Dong has been jailed several times in China for activism, including commemorating the Tiananmen Square crackdown.
  • He has tried to escape China multiple times before but was sent back each time.
  • Human rights groups have called on South Korea to allow Dong to seek political asylum or to help him safely reach Canada, where his family lives.
  • Dong’s previous escape attempts included going to Thailand, swimming toward Taiwan, and fleeing to Vietnam, but all ended with his return to China.
  • He was fired from the Chinese police in 1999 after signing a petition for Tiananmen commemoration.
  • Another Chinese dissident fled to South Korea in 2023 by jet ski and later resettled in the U.S.
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As Iran and U.S. appear near a deal, Israel ramps up war in Lebanon

As Iran and U.S. appear near a deal, Israel ramps up war in Lebanon

Summary

Iran and the United States are engaged in indirect talks to end ongoing conflicts, with Iran saying renewed war is unlikely but they remain prepared to defend themselves. Meanwhile, Israel has increased attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon, causing many casualties as tensions rise in the Middle East. President Trump is meeting his Cabinet to discuss the Iran situation and the progress of the talks.

Key Facts

  • An Iranian Revolutionary Guard official said a new war with the U.S. seems unlikely but Iran is ready for defense.
  • Israel's recent strikes in Lebanon killed over 30 people as they target Iranian-backed Hezbollah.
  • Iran insists that the topic of highly enriched uranium is not currently part of the negotiations with the U.S.
  • President Trump stated that Iran might dispose of its enriched uranium either inside the country or elsewhere acceptable to parties.
  • Trump’s administration claims Iran agreed in principle to dispose of its highly enriched uranium but details are still being worked out.
  • President Trump said indirect talks with Iran are going well and hopes to end Iran’s nuclear threats and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Some supporters worry the emerging deal may leave important issues unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear program.
  • The conflict involves multiple fronts in the Middle East, including U.S.-Iran tensions and Israeli-Hezbollah fighting in Lebanon.
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Five villagers found alive in Laos cave as search continues for two missing

Five villagers found alive in Laos cave as search continues for two missing

Summary

Five villagers trapped in a flooded cave in central Laos for over a week have been found alive by rescue teams, while two others remain missing. Rescue efforts continue in difficult conditions, with help from international divers, including some who took part in a similar Thai cave rescue in 2018.

Key Facts

  • Seven villagers entered the cave in Xaisomboun province, Laos, on May 19.
  • Heavy rain caused flooding that trapped the group inside the cave.
  • Five villagers have been found alive; two are still missing.
  • Rescue teams from Laos, Thailand, and other countries are involved.
  • Divers who helped in the 2018 Thai cave rescue have joined the operation.
  • The cave is in a remote, mountainous area about 120 km north of Vientiane, the capital of Laos.
  • The cave is difficult to access, requiring a steep 4 km hike and a narrow, rocky entrance.
  • Residents sometimes enter the cave looking for gold, despite warnings from authorities about safety risks.
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Israel Kills Hamas Military Leader in New Strikes on Gaza, Lebanon

Israel Kills Hamas Military Leader in New Strikes on Gaza, Lebanon

Summary

Israel killed Mohammed Odeh, a senior Hamas military leader, in an airstrike in northern Gaza as it increased military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon. These actions happened despite existing ceasefire agreements, following ongoing conflicts between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

Key Facts

  • Mohammed Odeh was the recently appointed head of Hamas' armed wing and involved in the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel.
  • Israel's Defense Minister praised the strike that killed Odeh and the security forces involved.
  • Israel intensified airstrikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, killing at least 31 people and injuring 40.
  • Hamas has not officially confirmed Odeh’s death, but lost other leaders recently to Israeli strikes.
  • Israel tracked Odeh for months before the strike in Gaza City, Hamas’ northern stronghold.
  • The October 7 Hamas attack killed around 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages.
  • Israeli retaliation has killed over 72,800 people in Gaza, according to Hamas health officials.
  • Ceasefires between Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon exist but have been violated by continued airstrikes and cross-border attacks.
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Hundreds of dead sharks found washed-up on Welsh beaches

Hundreds of dead sharks found washed-up on Welsh beaches

Summary

Hundreds of dead sharks and other fish washed up on beaches in Wales, including Pembrey Beach in Carmarthenshire and Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire. Officials think the fish were accidentally caught by fishing boats and then thrown back or lost at sea, with no signs of pollution found.

Key Facts

  • A large number of dead sharks and fish appeared on Welsh beaches recently.
  • A walker named Pauline Morris found a full net of dead fish on Pembrey Beach.
  • The fish are believed to be catsharks, also called dogfish.
  • The dead fish may have been caught and discarded by fishing boats, known as by-catch.
  • Natural Resources Wales investigated but found no pollution or environmental harm.
  • Tides have washed most of the dead fish away from the shore.
  • Local councils have been contacted but no official comments were reported yet.
  • Sea Trust Wales reported the findings to the authorities after seeing images online.
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‘Mind-bogglingly crazy’: climate experts alarmed by deadly spring heatwaves searing Europe

‘Mind-bogglingly crazy’: climate experts alarmed by deadly spring heatwaves searing Europe

Summary

Europe experienced deadly heatwaves in spring 2024 with record-breaking temperatures in the UK, France, and Spain. Experts warn that these early heatwaves are dangerous, especially for vulnerable people, and link their severity to human-caused climate change.

Key Facts

  • The UK hit its highest May temperature ever, reaching 35.1°C in west London.
  • France recorded temperatures above 37.1°C in May for the first time since its warning system began in 2004.
  • Spain may face temperatures as high as 40°C this week.
  • Heatwaves in early season are more risky because people’s bodies are not used to extreme heat yet.
  • Around 250 extra heat-related deaths likely occurred in England and Wales over a weekend.
  • EU summer heat kills many more people than car crashes, murders, or terrorist attacks.
  • Scientists link the intensity and frequency of these heatwaves to human-caused climate change.
  • High pressure traps heat over Europe, combined with global warming, leading to these extreme temperatures.
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Reform UK spending on Facebook ads surged before May elections

Reform UK spending on Facebook ads surged before May elections

Summary

Reform UK greatly increased its spending on Facebook ads before the May elections, nearly matching Labour's spending during the campaign's final weeks. The party used targeted local ads and sophisticated digital strategies, supported by large financial donations from key backers.

Key Facts

  • Reform UK spent £252,000 on Facebook ads in the two weeks before the May elections.
  • Labour spent slightly more, £276,000, but spread across multiple regional pages.
  • The Conservative Party spent £76,000 on Facebook ads in the same period, much less than Reform and Labour.
  • Reform's Facebook ads were highly targeted by location, focusing on specific postcodes.
  • The party used local messages to campaign against Labour, SNP, and describe themselves as the main challengers.
  • Reform received £5.5 million in donations in the last quarter of 2025, more than any other party.
  • Major donors included Christopher Harborne, contributing £3 million, and JC Bamford Excavators, donating £200,000.
  • The data suggests Reform UK's campaign became more professional and better funded compared to its past efforts.
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5 of 7 people trapped in flooded Laos cave for more than a week found alive

5 of 7 people trapped in flooded Laos cave for more than a week found alive

Summary

Five villagers trapped in a flooded cave in Laos for more than a week have been found alive, while two remain missing. Rescue teams from Laos and Thailand are continuing the search despite difficult weather and terrain.

Key Facts

  • Seven villagers were trapped in a cave in Xaisomboun province, Laos, after heavy rain caused flooding on May 19.
  • Five people have been found alive trapped inside the cave; two are still missing.
  • Rescuers include teams from Laos, Thailand, and divers from several countries.
  • The cave is in a remote, mountainous area about 75 miles north of Vientiane, the Laos capital.
  • Rescuers face tough conditions like steep terrain, narrow cave entrances, and heavy rain.
  • The villagers may have entered the cave to look for gold, despite warnings from authorities.
  • The rescue operation involves experienced divers who participated in a similar 2018 cave rescue in Thailand.
  • Videos show rescued villagers sitting on a rock inside the flooded cave, and rescuers celebrating outside.
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US, Iran have launched multiple attacks during ceasefire: A timeline

US, Iran have launched multiple attacks during ceasefire: A timeline

Summary

Since a ceasefire began on April 8 between the US and Iran, both sides have continued attacks, raising concerns that the truce may fail. The US targeted missile sites in southern Iran, while Iran shot down a US drone and fired at US aircraft, as peace talks continue.

Key Facts

  • A ceasefire was announced on April 8 after 40 days of conflict involving US, Israel, and Iran.
  • The US Central Command conducted strikes in southern Iran to defend US troops against missile and naval mine threats.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it downed a US drone and fired at a US jet and a second drone entering Iranian airspace.
  • Iran controls shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for 20% of the world’s oil, while the US enforces a blockade on Iranian ports.
  • Mediation efforts are ongoing in Doha and Islamabad, but direct peace agreements have not yet been reached.
  • Since February 28, over 3,468 people have died in US-Israeli attacks on Iran and over 26 Israelis in Iranian attacks; the US military has had 13 combat deaths.
  • Kuwait accused Iran-linked groups of drone attacks entering its airspace on April 10; Iran denied targeting Gulf countries after the ceasefire began.
  • Lebanon remains heavily affected by ongoing Israeli ground invasions despite the ceasefire.
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Ebola-hit DR Congo faces 'catastrophic collision' of disease and conflict, WHO warns

Ebola-hit DR Congo faces 'catastrophic collision' of disease and conflict, WHO warns

Summary

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is facing a difficult Ebola outbreak made worse by ongoing fighting in the eastern region. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that violence and poor road conditions are stopping medical teams from controlling the disease, which has caused many deaths and forced people to move into crowded camps.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola outbreak is mainly in Ituri province, eastern DR Congo, with 220 suspected deaths so far.
  • Fighting and military control in Ituri make it hard for health workers to reach sick people and stop the virus.
  • About 1,000 people show symptoms like Ebola, but only 17 deaths have been confirmed by tests.
  • The Ebola strain, called Bundibugyo, has no available vaccine or approved medicine.
  • WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros will visit DR Congo to boost efforts against the disease.
  • Countries like Canada, the Bahamas, and the U.S. have put travel bans or restrictions on people from DR Congo and nearby nations.
  • Aid groups struggle with poor roads and danger from clashes, slowing down testing and treatment.
  • Around 3,600 people who had contact with infected patients are being traced to stop the virus spread.
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Bad Bunny joins Toy Story 5 cast as voice of forgotten pizza toy

Bad Bunny joins Toy Story 5 cast as voice of forgotten pizza toy

Summary

Bad Bunny will voice a new character, Pizza With Sunglasses, in the upcoming movie Toy Story 5. The film will be released on June 19 and features a cast including Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, and Alan Cumming.

Key Facts

  • Bad Bunny is voicing a forgotten pizza toy called Pizza With Sunglasses in Toy Story 5.
  • Alan Cumming will voice an evil version of Bullseye, Woody's horse, in the film.
  • Toy Story 5 will come out on June 19 and continues the story of toys coming to life.
  • The main characters Buzz Lightyear and Woody try to protect their owner Bonnie from a smart tablet named Lilypad.
  • Bad Bunny is an influential musician known as the King of Latin Trap and recently headlined the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show.
  • He has acted in several films including Bullet Train and is set for his first lead role in a movie about Puerto Rican revolutionary José Maldonado Román.
  • The Toy Story series started in 1995 and features toys that come alive when humans are not around.
  • Bad Bunny is also thinking about returning to WWE wrestling.
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Community shocked after Aboriginal rock shelter bulldozed for NSW power lines

Community shocked after Aboriginal rock shelter bulldozed for NSW power lines

Summary

An Aboriginal rock shelter in New South Wales was destroyed by bulldozers during construction of power lines for a renewable energy project. The damage was discovered two months later, and both the company and government are investigating how heritage protection rules were not followed.

Key Facts

  • The rock shelter was located about 300 km northwest of Sydney in the Central-West Orana renewable energy zone.
  • Bulldozers damaged the shelter in March while building access tracks for power lines.
  • The damage was found in May during safety and heritage checks by the company Acerez.
  • Acerez admitted their protection plans for the shelter were not fully followed and apologized.
  • The shelter was known to offer natural protection from rain and wind and possibly held important archaeological evidence.
  • Government and company officials called the damage unacceptable and said investigations are ongoing.
  • Indigenous community members expressed shock and anger, calling for stronger heritage laws and better respect.
  • An independent MP demanded accountability and an independent investigation into the incident.
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Humza Yousaf says he hopes Peter Murrell gets ‘hefty’ sentence over embezzlement charges

Humza Yousaf says he hopes Peter Murrell gets ‘hefty’ sentence over embezzlement charges

Summary

Humza Yousaf, Scotland’s former first minister, said Peter Murrell should get a heavy jail sentence after Murrell admitted stealing over £400,000 from the Scottish National Party (SNP). Murrell, the SNP’s former chief executive, pleaded guilty to embezzlement, and his crime has affected Scottish politics and the SNP's leadership.

Key Facts

  • Peter Murrell admitted to stealing £400,310 from the Scottish National Party.
  • Murrell was SNP chief executive for 22 years and married to Nicola Sturgeon, a prominent Scottish politician.
  • Murrell was arrested in April 2023 during a police fraud investigation at the home he shared with Sturgeon.
  • Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP’s former treasurer were also investigated but later cleared.
  • Humza Yousaf, who was Scotland’s first Asian and Muslim first minister, said Murrell betrayed his colleagues and should receive a harsh sentence.
  • Police seized a £124,000 motorhome linked to Murrell, which surprised Yousaf.
  • Yousaf highlighted Murrell’s spending on expensive luxury items, such as salt and pepper shakers costing over £2,600.
  • Murrell’s court sentencing is scheduled for 23 June, with further details expected at an earlier hearing on 2 June.
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WATCH:  Father, daughter take road trip to save 2 calves

WATCH: Father, daughter take road trip to save 2 calves

Summary

A father and daughter drove two young calves from farms in Vermont to an animal sanctuary in Maryland. The calves were only 10 days old at the time of transport.

Key Facts

  • A father named Jared and his daughter, Joanna Zelman, helped move two calves.
  • The calves were 10 days old during the trip.
  • The journey was from Vermont to Maryland.
  • The destination was an animal sanctuary.
  • The story was shared by ABC News and includes an interview with the father and daughter.
  • The trip was done to save and protect the calves.
  • The calves came from farms before going to the sanctuary.
  • The story was featured on ABC News Live on May 27, 2026.
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Ed Husic calls on Labor to establish ‘red line’ on Israel’s actions, including treatment of flotilla activists

Ed Husic calls on Labor to establish ‘red line’ on Israel’s actions, including treatment of flotilla activists

Summary

Australian Labor MP Ed Husic has urged the government to take stronger actions against Israel due to concerns over its treatment of activists, the death of an Australian aid worker, and destruction of war graves. He called for tougher sanctions, ending defense cooperation, and blocking supply of parts for Israel’s F-35 fighter jets.

Key Facts

  • Ed Husic wants Australia to set a firm "red line" on Israel’s actions and impose stricter penalties.
  • He cited the mistreatment of activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla and the death of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom.
  • There have been calls to stop defense cooperation and halt supplying parts for Israeli F-35 fighter jets.
  • Israel denies mistreatment claims, saying detainees are treated according to the law.
  • Israel’s national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, was sanctioned by Australia in 2025 for inciting violence.
  • The conflict between Israel and Palestinians has resulted in high civilian casualties and hostages taken.
  • Husic suggested Australia work with the European Union on coordinated stronger sanctions on Israel.
  • The Australian defense minister supports ongoing defense relations due to the F-35 program’s importance to the air force.
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