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Far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich says ICC is seeking his arrest

Far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich says ICC is seeking his arrest

Summary

Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich said the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor has secretly asked for an arrest warrant against him. He responded by ordering the evacuation of a Palestinian village in the West Bank and promised to fight back against the Palestinian Authority. The ICC can investigate potential war crimes in Palestinian territories, which Israel does not recognize as under ICC jurisdiction.

Key Facts

  • Bezalel Smotrich, Israel’s far-right finance minister, says there is a secret ICC arrest warrant request against him.
  • Smotrich ordered the evacuation of Khan al-Ahmar, a Palestinian Bedouin village in the occupied West Bank.
  • He said Israel will respond with a "war" against the Palestinian Authority.
  • The ICC can investigate war crimes in Palestinian territories because the Palestinian Authority joined the court in 2015.
  • Israel is not a member of the ICC and rejects its authority over Israelis.
  • The ICC previously issued arrest warrants in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, a former defense chief, and a Hamas leader.
  • The United States, Israel’s key ally, opposes ICC arrest warrants against Israeli officials and imposed sanctions on ICC staff under President Trump.
  • Smotrich supports expanding Israeli settlements and keeping control over Gaza and the West Bank, positions rejected by Netanyahu.
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Author Bruce Feiler says rituals can combat loneliness and polarization

Author Bruce Feiler says rituals can combat loneliness and polarization

Summary

Author Bruce Feiler traveled to 16 countries on six continents over three years to study rituals. He says that rituals can help reduce loneliness and bring people together.

Key Facts

  • Bruce Feiler is an author who studied rituals around the world.
  • He visited 16 countries across six continents to learn about different rituals.
  • Feiler believes rituals can help fight loneliness.
  • He also sees rituals as a way to reduce social division and polarization.
  • Feiler talked about his findings on the TV show "CBS Mornings."
  • Rituals are repeated actions or ceremonies people do together.
  • These practices can build community and connection among people.
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WHO holding emergency meeting as concern grows over deadly Ebola outbreak

WHO holding emergency meeting as concern grows over deadly Ebola outbreak

Summary

An American doctor tested positive for Ebola while working in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The World Health Organization (WHO) will hold an emergency meeting as the Ebola outbreak in the DRC has caused more than 130 deaths.

Key Facts

  • An American doctor caught Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • The Ebola outbreak has caused over 130 deaths so far.
  • The World Health Organization is organizing an emergency meeting to address the outbreak.
  • The outbreak is ongoing and spreading, causing concern among health officials.
  • The emergency meeting is scheduled to take place on Tuesday.
  • CBS News is reporting on the situation to keep the public informed.
  • Ebola is a serious infectious disease causing fever, bleeding, and often death.
  • The meeting aims to coordinate a response to stop the outbreak from worsening.
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Teenager admits murder of Kayden Moy on Irvine beach

Teenager admits murder of Kayden Moy on Irvine beach

Summary

An 18-year-old named Cole Turley has admitted to murdering 16-year-old Kayden Moy on Irvine beach in May 2025. Two other teenagers, Jay Stewart (18) and a 15-year-old boy, are on trial for the same murder charge and additional crimes related to trying to hide evidence.

Key Facts

  • Cole Turley, 18, pleaded guilty to murdering Kayden Moy, who was 16 years old.
  • Jay Stewart, 18, and a 15-year-old boy deny the murder charge and are on trial.
  • The accused are said to have chased Kayden Moy, causing him to fall, then stabbed him several times.
  • Stewart and the teenager are also charged with trying to cover up the crime by cleaning blood off a knife and their bodies.
  • They reportedly hid the knives in furniture and tried to burn stained clothes and a phone.
  • The suspects tried to avoid cameras by covering their faces and changing clothes at a house in East Kilbride.
  • They allegedly paid for things with cash to avoid using cards that could be traced.
  • Stewart faces extra charges for threatening behavior and carrying a knife during incidents linked to the murder case.
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Sebastian Stan’s Cannes transformation stuns in 'Fjord' premiere

Sebastian Stan’s Cannes transformation stuns in 'Fjord' premiere

Summary

Sebastian Stan stars in the film "Fjord," which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. The movie, directed by Cristian Mungiu, is about a Romanian family that moves to rural Norway and faces isolation from locals.

Key Facts

  • Sebastian Stan plays a major role in "Fjord," marking his first acting role in Romanian.
  • "Fjord" was directed by Cristian Mungiu and shown in the Cannes Competition section.
  • The story focuses on a Romanian family adapting to life in a remote area of Norway.
  • Nicolas Winding Refn returned to Cannes with a horror thriller called "Her Private Hell."
  • Pedro Almodovar presented "Bitter Christmas," a drama about filmmaking, creativity, and aging.
  • Cannes Film Festival also featured stars like Kristen Stewart and Éric Cantona during its 2026 edition.
  • The festival highlights new films from famous actors and directors, emphasizing global cinema.
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Iran stages mass weddings for couples ready for "self-sacrifice" in war

Iran stages mass weddings for couples ready for "self-sacrifice" in war

Summary

Iran held large public wedding ceremonies in Tehran for couples who joined a government program pledging to defend the country in the ongoing war with the U.S. and Israel. The events were part of a campaign to boost national unity and show readiness for conflict, occurring amid threats of renewed military action from President Trump and a fragile ceasefire.

Key Facts

  • Hundreds of couples married in Tehran’s public squares, including over 100 at Imam Hossein square.
  • The weddings celebrated couples who joined the "self-sacrifice" program, pledging to defend Iran in the war.
  • The term "self-sacrificing" (Jan-fada) means being ready to take up arms and risk death for the country.
  • Ceremonies included military vehicles and were overseen by clergy, with images of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei present.
  • The events were broadcast on Iranian state TV to raise morale during the war.
  • The program has attracted millions of supporters, including prominent Iranian officials.
  • The wedding ceremonies coincided with military tutorials on firearms for civilians in Tehran.
  • This activity is part of Iran’s wider effort to demonstrate popular support during the war triggered by U.S.-Israeli attacks.
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Sandy Fire in Simi Valley forces thousands to evacuate

Sandy Fire in Simi Valley forces thousands to evacuate

Summary

The Sandy Fire in Simi Valley, California, burned multiple homes and caused thousands of people to leave their houses for safety. Firefighters responded to control the fire and protect nearby communities.

Key Facts

  • The Sandy Fire occurred in Simi Valley, California.
  • Several houses were destroyed by the fire.
  • Thousands of residents had to evacuate to avoid danger.
  • Fire crews worked to stop the fire from spreading.
  • The evacuation was ordered to keep people safe while the fire was active.
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US extends sanctions waiver on Russian oil: Why it matters

US extends sanctions waiver on Russian oil: Why it matters

Summary

The United States has extended a 30-day waiver allowing some countries to buy Russian oil that was already on ships at sea, aiming to help vulnerable nations access energy amid disruptions caused by the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The extension, set to last until June 17, also seeks to stabilize global oil markets and limit China’s ability to stockpile discounted Russian oil.

Key Facts

  • The US announced a 30-day extension of a sanctions waiver for Russian oil on tankers already at sea, lasting until June 17.
  • The waiver helps vulnerable countries access oil and aims to stabilize the global crude oil market.
  • It also intends to reduce China’s ability to accumulate discounted Russian oil supplies.
  • The first 30-day waiver was issued in March after oil prices surged due to US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
  • Energy market instability continues due to the US-Iran conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.
  • About 113 million barrels of Russian oil are currently loaded on ships at sea.
  • India and China remain major buyers of Russian crude despite US pressure.
  • Russian oil exports to India recently increased to over 2 million barrels per day, while exports to China remain strong.
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How two new California wildfires look from space

How two new California wildfires look from space

Summary

Two wildfires are spreading in southern California, one near Simi Valley and another on Santa Rosa Island. Firefighters are working to contain the fires, and thousands of homes have been evacuated due to the danger.

Key Facts

  • The Sandy Fire started on Monday morning near Simi Valley, north-west of Los Angeles.
  • The fire has burned about 1,364 acres and is not yet contained.
  • About 750 firefighters are fighting the Sandy Fire with the help of helicopters dropping water at night.
  • Over 10,000 homes have been evacuated, and 3,500 more are under evacuation warnings.
  • High winds helped spread the fire on Monday morning but later calmed down.
  • A fire on Santa Rosa Island has burned 14,600 acres since Friday and remains uncontained.
  • Around 70 firefighters and park rangers are working on the Santa Rosa Island fire.
  • Santa Rosa Island is mostly uninhabited but has important plant and animal life.
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Israeli-Palestinian author duo: ‘We must break the cycle of violence’

Israeli-Palestinian author duo: ‘We must break the cycle of violence’

Summary

Aziz Abu Sarah, a Palestinian who lost his brother in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and Maoz Inon, an Israeli who lost his parents in a Hamas attack in 2023, have co-authored a book promoting hope and peace between their communities. Their book, titled "The Future of Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land," aims to encourage breaking the cycle of violence.

Key Facts

  • Aziz Abu Sarah is a Palestinian whose brother was killed by the Israeli military.
  • Maoz Inon is an Israeli whose parents were killed by Hamas in October 2023.
  • After their losses, Aziz and Maoz connected and wrote a book together.
  • Their book is called “The Future of Peace: A Shared Journey Across the Holy Land.”
  • The book has been translated and launched in French as “La Paix est notre Avenir.”
  • They want to spread a message of hope and peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
  • Their work focuses on ending ongoing violence in the Middle East conflict.
  • The interview and book launch were featured on the program Perspective by FRANCE 24.
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Vladimir Putin to arrive in Beijing for state visit hot on heels of Trump

Vladimir Putin to arrive in Beijing for state visit hot on heels of Trump

Summary

Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting Beijing, shortly after President Donald Trump left China. This visit shows the strong relationship between Russia and China and highlights China's growing role in international diplomacy.

Key Facts

  • Putin’s visit to China is his 25th and comes just four days after President Trump’s visit.
  • Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have met over 40 times, more than Xi’s meetings with any Western leader.
  • The visit highlights China’s confidence and global diplomatic presence.
  • Russia and China have increased their trade and financial dealings using their own currencies, the rouble and yuan, instead of the US dollar.
  • China has bought over $367 billion in Russian fossil fuels since the Ukraine war began.
  • The two countries have visa-free travel agreements for their citizens.
  • There may be new energy deals, such as the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline through Mongolia.
  • Russia is becoming more dependent on China due to Western sanctions and economic challenges related to the Ukraine conflict.
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Kenya's transportation strike suspended as negotiations take place

Kenya's transportation strike suspended as negotiations take place

Summary

Kenya has paused a deadly transportation strike for one week. This break will allow time for talks to reduce unrest after protests left four people dead.

Key Facts

  • The transportation strike in Kenya caused violence and protests.
  • Four people died during the protests linked to the strike.
  • Kenya’s interior minister announced the strike suspension.
  • The strike pause is set for one week.
  • The break aims to help negotiations continue peacefully.
  • The situation has caused national concern over safety and order.
  • The transportation sector was heavily affected by the strike.
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WHO worried about 'scale and speed' of Ebola outbreak

WHO worried about 'scale and speed' of Ebola outbreak

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) is concerned about the rapid spread of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They expect the number of Ebola cases to increase and do not believe the outbreak will end quickly.

Key Facts

  • The Ebola outbreak is happening in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • The World Health Organization is closely monitoring the situation.
  • WHO has warned that the outbreak is spreading fast and affecting many people.
  • The number of Ebola cases is likely to grow in the near future.
  • Health officials say it is unlikely the outbreak will end quickly.
  • Preventive measures include hand washing and temperature checks at hospitals.
  • The outbreak is occurring in areas with conflict and difficult access, complicating response efforts.
  • The DRC government has taken emergency steps to try and control the outbreak.
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World health officials holding emergency meeting on Ebola outbreak

World health officials holding emergency meeting on Ebola outbreak

Summary

Health officials are holding an emergency meeting because a new Ebola outbreak has started in Congo and Uganda. The virus has already caused many deaths, raising concerns about its spread.

Key Facts

  • Ebola cases have appeared in Congo and Uganda.
  • The outbreak has resulted in dozens of deaths.
  • Health experts are meeting urgently to address the situation.
  • The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is involved in the response.
  • Efforts are underway to control the spread of the virus.
  • Ebola is a serious disease that can cause severe illness and death.
  • The emergency meeting aims to coordinate actions between countries and health organizations.
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Funding and Ebola epidemic loom over WHO's annual summit

Funding and Ebola epidemic loom over WHO's annual summit

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) held its annual meeting starting May 18, 2026, for the first time after the United States and Argentina left the organization. Their departures reduced WHO’s funding by 20%, while the world faces health challenges like an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and recent hantavirus cases.

Key Facts

  • WHO’s 2026 annual summit began on May 18.
  • The United States and Argentina have both withdrawn from WHO.
  • These withdrawals cut WHO’s funding by one-fifth (20%).
  • An Ebola outbreak is ongoing in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), causing increasing concern.
  • The Ebola outbreak has affected conflict zones and hard-to-reach areas in the DRC.
  • More than 80 people have died so far from Ebola in the DRC.
  • There have been recent hantavirus cases in France and Spain, with close contacts testing negative so far.
  • WHO considers hantavirus less contagious than COVID-19 but notes it has a high fatality rate.
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Iconic Parisian bridge slowly turning into immersive cave as artist takes over

Iconic Parisian bridge slowly turning into immersive cave as artist takes over

Summary

French artist JR is creating a public art installation on the Pont Neuf bridge in Paris. The artwork will cover the bridge and be open for visitors from June 6 to June 28, 2026.

Key Facts

  • The artist JR is known for large-scale public art projects.
  • The installation is taking place on the Pont Neuf, a famous Paris bridge.
  • The project transforms the bridge into an immersive visual experience.
  • It will be open for about three weeks starting June 6, 2026.
  • Both tourists and local people are watching the progress before it opens.
  • The event highlights French culture and art.
  • The artwork aims to create a unique, engaging environment on a historic landmark.
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Andie MacDowell on timeless beauty at the Cannes Film Festival

Andie MacDowell on timeless beauty at the Cannes Film Festival

Summary

Actress Andie MacDowell has become a regular figure at the Cannes Film Festival, attending both as an ambassador for L’Oréal cosmetics and to support films. The festival this year highlights themes like sexism and sexual violence in cinema, with new films and voices addressing these ongoing issues.

Key Facts

  • Andie MacDowell frequently attends the Cannes Film Festival and works with L’Oréal as a brand ambassador.
  • She spoke about movies, motherhood, and promoting a broader idea of beauty during the festival.
  • Cannes marks eight years since it addressed the #MeToo movement, continuing discussions on sexism and sexual violence in films.
  • Judith Godrèche brought a new film adaptation called “A Girl’s Story,” focusing on these themes.
  • The festival revisits the influence of the film Thelma and Louise, marking its 35th anniversary.
  • Yemeni director Sara Ishaq made history by presenting a female-led film titled "The Station."
  • Other celebrities like Park Chan-wook, Demi Moore, Kristen Stewart, Javier Bardem, and John Travolta also participated at Cannes.
  • The festival includes a mix of movies that challenge social issues and celebrate new directorial talents.
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Ukraine increasingly able to strike inside Russia thanks to new drones

Ukraine increasingly able to strike inside Russia thanks to new drones

Summary

Ukraine is using new mid-range and long-range drones to carry out attacks inside Russia. These drone strikes have targeted multiple Russian regions and disrupted Russian military activities.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine has launched hundreds of drones towards different areas inside Russia.
  • The drones have mid and long flying ranges, allowing strikes deeper into Russian territory.
  • Ukrainian drone attacks have damaged buildings and military targets in Russia.
  • At least four people have died and twelve others have been injured in recent strikes.
  • Ukrainian officials say these attacks weaken Russia’s military capabilities.
  • The drone strikes are part of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
  • Both countries have exchanged drone attacks overnight recently.
  • Ukrainian President Zelensky called these strikes a justified response to Russian aggression.
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Security guard killed in San Diego mosque shooting remembered: "He saved a lot of lives"

Security guard killed in San Diego mosque shooting remembered: "He saved a lot of lives"

Summary

Three people were killed in a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego on Monday. The police are investigating the incident as a possible hate crime. Two teenagers suspected of involvement were found dead.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Islamic Center of San Diego.
  • Three people died in the shooting.
  • A security guard who died was remembered for saving many lives.
  • Police are treating the case as a possible hate crime.
  • Two teenage suspects connected to the shooting were found dead.
  • Authorities are continuing their investigation to understand what happened.
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Suspected car bomb explodes in Syrian capital Damascus

Suspected car bomb explodes in Syrian capital Damascus

Summary

A suspected car bomb exploded outside a weapons management center in Damascus, the capital of Syria. Firefighters quickly arrived to put out the fire caused by the blast.

Key Facts

  • The explosion happened outside an armament (weapons) management center in Damascus.
  • The device involved is believed to be a car bomb.
  • Smoke was seen rising from the explosion site.
  • Firefighter teams responded quickly to control the fire.
  • The incident was reported through videos shared on social media.
  • Damascus is the capital city of Syria.
  • No information about casualties or damage was provided in the report.
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