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First Thing: US and Iran inch closer to peace deal as Trump faces criticism from GOP hawks

First Thing: US and Iran inch closer to peace deal as Trump faces criticism from GOP hawks

May 25, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

President Donald Trump is close to reaching a peace deal with Iran to end the conflict, despite criticism from some Republicans in his party. Iranian officials say much progress has been made, but no agreement is finalized yet.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is negotiating a deal with Iran to stop the war.
  • Some Republican "hawks" criticize the deal and question Trump's role in starting the conflict.
  • Trump says his deal will be very different from the one made under President Obama, which he withdrew from in 2018.
  • Iran’s foreign ministry says much progress is made, but no deal is signed yet.
  • Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, defeated in a primary, warns Trump’s actions have alienated key voter groups.
  • Massie believes Trump’s party could lose many votes in the November elections.
  • About 50,000 people were evacuated in California due to the threat of an exploding chemical tank.
  • The EPA chief, appointed by Trump, warned of a possible chemical explosion near Disneyland.
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Guardian US Guardian World
'Work in progress': Washington seeks diplomatic exit from Iran war

'Work in progress': Washington seeks diplomatic exit from Iran war

May 25, 2026 • France24

Summary

The United States and Iran are working on a possible agreement to end their conflict, but both sides remain cautious about the final terms. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the negotiations a “work in progress,” indicating that progress is being made but no deal is finalized yet.

Key Facts

  • The US and Iran are negotiating to reach an agreement to end the war between them.
  • Both Washington and Tehran have expressed caution about the final deal terms.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the talks as ongoing and not yet complete.
  • There is some growing confidence that a breakthrough could happen.
  • President Donald Trump has commented that the deal is “largely negotiated.”
  • The agreement could impact the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.
  • The situation in the Middle East remains fragile with related tensions involving Israel and Hezbollah.
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France24
Israel kills three in attacks on Lebanon, issues more displacement orders

Israel kills three in attacks on Lebanon, issues more displacement orders

May 25, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Israeli air attacks in southern Lebanon killed at least three people and targeted several villages, leading to forced evacuation orders. Despite a US-mediated ceasefire, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues, with casualties on both sides and ongoing military actions.

Key Facts

  • Israeli drone strikes hit vehicles on two highways in southern Lebanon, killing three people.
  • Israel ordered residents from 10 villages in southern Lebanon to evacuate for safety reasons.
  • Israeli forces destroyed two homes in the southern city of Tyre and struck multiple towns in the area.
  • Israeli drones were reported flying over Beirut for the second day in a row.
  • More than 3,000 people have died since fighting resumed in March between Israel and Hezbollah.
  • One Israeli soldier was killed and another wounded in southern Lebanon from a Hezbollah drone attack.
  • Despite a ceasefire set in mid-April, Israeli military operations in Lebanon have continued.
  • Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun demands Israel withdraw from Lebanese territory and upcoming peace talks are scheduled with US involvement.
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Al Jazeera
Rare Rubens notebook sheet goes on display in artist’s home city of Antwerp

Rare Rubens notebook sheet goes on display in artist’s home city of Antwerp

May 25, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A rare double-sided sheet from Peter Paul Rubens’ Roman sketchbook has been shown for the first time in Antwerp, his home city. The sheet features a drawing of three men in classical robes on one side and an unfinished letter to an Italian painter on the other, offering new insight into Rubens’ early career and life.

Key Facts

  • The sheet is believed to be from Rubens’ sketchbook during his time in Rome over 400 years ago.
  • One side has a brown ink sketch of three men in classical robes, possibly apostles.
  • The other side has a draft letter from 1607, written by Rubens to Italian painter Cristoforo Roncalli.
  • Rubens was working for the Mantua court between 1600 and 1608, and the letter concerns a painting for Duchess Eleonora de’ Medici.
  • The letter shows Rubens’ effort to express himself carefully and diplomatically.
  • The sheet is now part of the Rubenshuis museum collection in Antwerp and is displayed in the Rubens Experience exhibition.
  • The King Baudouin Foundation bought the sheet from a US owner for €110,000 to keep it in Belgium for public view.
  • Many Rubens works have left Belgium over the centuries, making this a valuable cultural piece for the country.
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Guardian World
American Music Awards air tonight with star-studded performances

American Music Awards air tonight with star-studded performances

May 25, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) will air tonight at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and Paramount+. The show features performances by many popular artists, including Billy Idol, Keith Urban, Teyana Taylor, and BTS, and celebrates fan-voted music awards.

Key Facts

  • The AMAs are known as the world's largest fan-voted music awards show.
  • Taylor Swift leads with eight nominations and has previously won 40 AMAs, more than any other artist.
  • Billy Idol will receive a lifetime achievement award and perform a medley of his hits.
  • BTS is making their first awards show appearance in four years after a military service hiatus.
  • Other performers include Hootie and the Blowfish, New Kids on the Block, The Pussycat Dolls, and Teyana Taylor.
  • Fans can still vote live for social song of the year and tour of the year during the first half hour of the show.
  • The event takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
  • Queen Latifah is hosting the awards show this year, returning since her last co-hosting role in 1995.
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CBS News
Spraying incident in luxury mall in Japan injures about 20

Spraying incident in luxury mall in Japan injures about 20

May 25, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

About 20 people were hurt when a man sprayed a substance inside a luxury mall in Tokyo’s Ginza district. Emergency teams treated injured people, and police are investigating what caused the incident.

Key Facts

  • The spraying happened near an ATM on the mall’s ground floor.
  • Around 20 people were injured, mostly with light symptoms like throat irritation.
  • The mall’s front road was closed, but shoppers still entered through side doors.
  • Firefighters wore hazmat suits and moved people to special vehicles for checks.
  • Police have not yet identified the sprayed substance or the motive behind it.
  • Violent crime is rare in Japan, but there have been past attacks involving chemicals.
  • Japan experienced a deadly nerve gas attack on its subway in 1995 by a cult group.
  • There was a stabbing and liquid spraying attack at a Japanese factory in late 2025.
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Sun, superstars and other takeaways from Radio 1's Big Weekend

Sun, superstars and other takeaways from Radio 1's Big Weekend

May 25, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Radio 1's Big Weekend music festival took place over three sunny days in Sunderland, attracting around 100,000 people and about 100 musical acts. Olivia Dean closed the event with her first major headline performance, while artists like Zara Larsson and girl group FLO showcased their music and talked about being authentic.

Key Facts

  • The festival was held at Herrington Country Park in Sunderland for three days.
  • About 100 musical acts performed during the event.
  • The weather was sunny throughout, which boosted the crowd’s mood.
  • Olivia Dean headlined the final day, marking a big step in her music career.
  • Zara Larsson performed and spoke about being true to herself as an artist.
  • The electronic music scene featured prominently, with a day dedicated to Radio 1's Dance Party.
  • Fans traveled from as far as New York to see their favorite artists.
  • Performers emphasized the importance of authenticity and sharing personal stories in their music.
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BBC Top Stories
Pope calls for robust regulation of AI in manifesto

Pope calls for robust regulation of AI in manifesto

May 25, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Pope Leo XIV issued a manifesto calling for strong rules to control artificial intelligence (AI). He urged AI developers to focus on helping humanity, not just making profits, and warned against letting AI make deadly decisions without human control.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical, "Magnifica Humanitas," about AI and its impact on society.
  • The pope criticized the rush for power and profit in AI development, especially in using AI for remote warfare.
  • He said AI should not be allowed to make irreversible lethal decisions.
  • The manifesto calls for clear laws, independent oversight, and informed users to regulate AI.
  • Pope Leo asked AI developers and politicians to slow down and think carefully about AI’s effects.
  • The Vatican involved tech company Anthropic in discussions about AI’s human impact.
  • The pope linked Catholic values like justice and dignity to guiding AI’s development.
  • Experts expect the document to be an important guide in AI policy and ethics discussions.
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ABC News
Peter Murrell pleads guilty to embezzling £400,000 from SNP

Peter Murrell pleads guilty to embezzling £400,000 from SNP

May 25, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party (SNP), pleaded guilty to stealing £400,310.65 from the party. He admitted to using the money for a luxurious lifestyle, including buying expensive items like a Jaguar car and a motorhome.

Key Facts

  • Peter Murrell was the chief executive of the SNP and is the ex-husband of Nicola Sturgeon, former SNP leader and first minister.
  • He was charged last year with embezzling money from the SNP.
  • Murrell agreed to a deal with prosecutors and pleaded guilty to reduced charges.
  • Nearly £60,000 of alleged theft was removed from the original charges.
  • The judge described Murrell’s actions as a “gross breach of trust.”
  • Murrell was taken into custody and will return to court on June 2 for more details on his crimes.
  • The stolen money funded luxury items such as a Jaguar car, a motorhome, a luxury pen, and shoes.
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Guardian World
Alberta Premier to Campaign Against Splitting from Canada

Alberta Premier to Campaign Against Splitting from Canada

May 25, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced a referendum on October 19 about whether Alberta should separate from Canada. Although her government is preparing for this vote, Smith said she will personally campaign for Alberta to stay in Canada and urged people not to give up on the country.

Key Facts

  • The referendum on Alberta’s separation will take place on October 19 as part of a provincial ballot.
  • Premier Danielle Smith supports Alberta remaining part of Canada despite frustrations with the federal government.
  • Smith believes Alberta’s economy is improving with more investments in energy, technology, and agriculture.
  • The referendum will be the 10th item on the ballot but will not immediately decide separation.
  • Some separatist groups criticize Smith’s plan, calling it "cynical and dishonest" to have a referendum on holding a referendum.
  • Smith’s situation is compared to former UK Prime Minister David Cameron and the Brexit referendum, where Cameron also campaigned against the vote he authorized.
  • Smith describes the referendum as a democratic process allowing all eligible Alberta voters to express their views.
  • The wording of the referendum question has caused controversy and increased debate about separation.
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Newsweek
What’s inside the Kaaba and what covers it? The story of the Kiswah

What’s inside the Kaaba and what covers it? The story of the Kiswah

May 25, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Kaaba is the holiest site in Islam, located in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is covered by a black silk cloth called the Kiswah. Millions of Muslims visit the Kaaba during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, where they follow rituals including circling the Kaaba and touching the Kiswah.

Key Facts

  • The Kaaba is a cube-shaped building inside the Grand Mosque in Mecca, measuring about 43 feet tall and 42 feet wide.
  • Muslims face the Kaaba during their daily prayers, which connects over a billion people worldwide in worship.
  • Muslims believe the Prophet Abraham and his son Ishmael originally built the Kaaba as a place to worship one God.
  • The Kaaba’s interior has three wooden pillars, marble walls and floors, hanging lanterns, and a staircase to the roof.
  • The Kaaba door is made of 280 kg (617 lbs) of gold and is about 10 feet tall; it is opened twice a year to clean the inside.
  • The Kiswah is the black silk cloth covering the Kaaba, embroidered with Quran verses in gold thread, and is made of 47 pieces of cloth.
  • The Kiswah weighs several hundred kilograms and includes a decorative belt called the hizam and a richly decorated curtain over the door called the sitara.
  • Pilgrims touch the Kiswah during Hajj, and part of it is carefully lifted to protect it from damage.
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Al Jazeera
Parts of England expected to hit 35C in ‘unprecedented’ May heatwave

Parts of England expected to hit 35C in ‘unprecedented’ May heatwave

May 25, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Parts of England are expected to reach 35°C (95°F) on Monday, marking a new record for May temperatures in the UK. This heatwave is unusually early and intense, linked to changing climate patterns and a weather phenomenon called El Niño.

Key Facts

  • The UK Met Office predicts temperatures could hit 35°C, breaking the current May record of 32.8°C.
  • Sunday was the hottest May day in at least 79 years, with Kew Gardens in London recording 32.3°C.
  • Overnight temperatures reached 19.4°C in Greater London, nearly causing the first “tropical night” in May, where temperatures do not fall below 20°C.
  • Several locations in England, including parts of London and Suffolk, are officially experiencing heatwave conditions.
  • A “super El Niño” weather pattern, which warms ocean waters and intensifies weather events, is expected to increase heatwaves, with stronger effects developing by 2027.
  • Europe is the fastest-warming continent, and hot summers are becoming more common in the UK and Europe overall.
  • Typically, the UK’s highest temperatures occur in late July or early August, so even hotter weather is expected later this summer.
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Guardian World
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Abandoned flotilla boat washes ashore in Egypt with Gaza aid

Abandoned flotilla boat washes ashore in Egypt with Gaza aid

May 25, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A small boat that was carrying aid to Gaza as part of the Global Sumud Flotilla washed ashore in Alexandria, Egypt. Last week, Israeli forces stopped and detained activists on international waters in the Mediterranean Sea.

Key Facts

  • The boat was part of the Global Sumud Flotilla carrying aid for Gaza.
  • The boat ended up on the shore of Alexandria, Egypt.
  • Israeli forces intercepted the activists last week.
  • The interception occurred in international waters in the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Activists involved with the flotilla were detained by Israeli authorities.
  • The flotilla's goal was to deliver aid to Gaza.
  • The incident highlights tensions around aid deliveries in the region.
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Al Jazeera
Australian flotilla activists arrive home alleging sexual assault and beatings in Israeli detention

Australian flotilla activists arrive home alleging sexual assault and beatings in Israeli detention

May 25, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Nine Australians returning from detention in Israel after attempting to aid Gaza say they faced abuse and mistreatment while held. They have asked to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to share their experiences and express disappointment with the government’s response. Israel denies the abuse claims and says detainees were treated according to the law.

Key Facts

  • Eleven Australians joined over 400 global activists on a flotilla to Gaza intercepted by Israel on May 18; nine returned home on May 29.
  • The activists were detained by Israeli forces and allege physical, sexual, and psychological abuse during custody.
  • Australian activist Violet CoCo claims she was sexually assaulted, beaten, and denied food, water, and legal access while detained.
  • Israel denies abuse allegations and says all detainees were treated lawfully and with sensitivity.
  • Israel’s national security minister shared video footage showing activists restrained in a stressful position, causing international backlash.
  • Australian Prime Minister Albanese has not agreed to meet the activists and said their claims require notice and verification.
  • The Israeli ambassador to Australia called the abuse claims false and condemned the minister’s behavior in sharing the video.
  • Some activists suffered serious injuries, including broken bones and concussions, during detention.
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Guardian World
The mullet makes a comeback at European championship

The mullet makes a comeback at European championship

May 25, 2026 • France24

Summary

About 2,000 people gathered in Belgium for the European Mullet Championship, celebrating the return of the mullet hairstyle. Participants said the mullet represents freedom, individuality, and standing against being like everyone else.

Key Facts

  • The event was held in Belgium.
  • Around 2,000 fans attended the European Mullet Championship.
  • The mullet hairstyle is becoming popular again.
  • People at the event see the mullet as a symbol of freedom.
  • The hairstyle also represents being unique and resisting conformity.
  • The championship focuses on the hairstyle and its cultural meaning.
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France24
Turkish police storm CHP headquarters amid political crisis

Turkish police storm CHP headquarters amid political crisis

May 25, 2026 • France24

Summary

Turkish police entered the headquarters of the main opposition party CHP in Ankara, using tear gas and rubber bullets to remove its leader Ozgur Ozel. This action followed a court decision that canceled Ozel’s 2023 election win. Critics say the move is politically motivated and increases pressure on the opposition from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Key Facts

  • Police stormed the CHP party headquarters in Ankara, Turkey.
  • They used tear gas and rubber bullets during the operation.
  • The reason was a court ruling that annulled Ozgur Ozel’s 2023 election victory.
  • Ozgur Ozel is the leader of the CHP, Turkey’s main opposition party.
  • Critics and protesters called the police action politically motivated.
  • The event is seen as a sign of growing pressure on opposition parties by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
  • The incident happened amid a political crisis in Turkey.
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France24
Fresh strikes test fragile Israel-Hezbollah truce

Fresh strikes test fragile Israel-Hezbollah truce

May 25, 2026 • France24

Summary

Israeli air strikes killed two people in southern Lebanon over the weekend despite a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Qassem, rejected talks with Israel, opposed giving up weapons, and called for protests against the Lebanese government, which the United States condemned.

Key Facts

  • Israel carried out air strikes in southern Lebanon during a ceasefire with Hezbollah.
  • Two people were killed as a result of these strikes.
  • Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Qassem, said he will not negotiate with Israel.
  • Qassem also rejected disarmament, meaning Hezbollah will keep its weapons.
  • Hezbollah called for protests against the Lebanese government.
  • The United States condemned Hezbollah’s call for protests.
  • The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah is fragile and has faced recent tests.
  • This situation is part of ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in the region.
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France24
Donald Trump slows momentum towards an Iran agreement

Donald Trump slows momentum towards an Iran agreement

May 25, 2026 • France24

Summary

President Donald Trump has lowered expectations for a quick agreement with Iran despite progress in talks. The negotiations focus on Iran agreeing not to develop nuclear weapons in return for possible easing of U.S. sanctions and economic restrictions.

Key Facts

  • Talks aim to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
  • Iran might receive relief from some U.S. economic sanctions.
  • President Trump cautions that a deal may not happen quickly.
  • Negotiations show signs of progress but still face challenges.
  • The discussions involve U.S. and Iranian officials working toward a diplomatic solution.
  • The proposed deal could affect regional issues like the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Recent reports mention related tensions in the Middle East.
  • The situation remains fluid and subject to change based on talks.
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France24
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Timelapse shows Hajj pilgrims performing Tawaf in Mecca

Timelapse shows Hajj pilgrims performing Tawaf in Mecca

May 25, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Muslims from many countries are gathering in Saudi Arabia to take part in the annual Hajj pilgrimage. A timelapse video shows pilgrims performing Tawaf, which is the ritual of walking around the Kaaba inside the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

Key Facts

  • The Hajj pilgrimage happens every year in Saudi Arabia.
  • Muslims from all over the world participate in this event.
  • Tawaf is a key ritual where pilgrims walk around the Kaaba, a sacred building inside the Grand Mosque.
  • The Grand Mosque is located in the city of Mecca.
  • The article includes a timelapse video showing the pilgrims performing Tawaf.
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Al Jazeera
Weather tracker: flash floods in New York and a heat dome in Europe

Weather tracker: flash floods in New York and a heat dome in Europe

May 25, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

New York City experienced flash floods after heavy rain overwhelmed the city's old sewer system, causing road closures and power outages. At the same time, western Europe is facing an early heatwave with temperatures much higher than usual, breaking records in some areas.

Key Facts

  • Brooklyn and Queens in New York City received about 2 inches (50mm) of rain in 20 minutes.
  • The sewer system was overwhelmed because it can only handle about 1.75 inches of rain per hour.
  • Flooding caused dangerous water levels on streets and disrupted subway services.
  • More than 10,000 people lost power due to strong winds and fallen trees.
  • Western Europe is experiencing a heat dome, where warm air is trapped by high pressure.
  • Temperatures in May are 10-15 degrees Celsius above average in places like the UK, France, and Germany.
  • France has broken its May temperature record with daily highs over 30°C, and temperatures could reach up to 38°C in the southwest.
  • Spain and Portugal are having a long hot spell but have not broken their May temperature records.
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Guardian World
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