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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events
The UK government will introduce new rules to make it harder for people to get waste carrier licences and stop illegal dumping of rubbish in England. Starting in 2027, applicants must prove their identity and qualifications, and those caught dumping waste illegally could face up to five years in prison.
Key Facts
New waste carrier licence rules will begin in 2027 to prevent illegal rubbish dumping.
Applicants must prove their identity and that they have the right skills, not just fill out an online form.
Licences will require displaying the permit number on ads and vehicles.
Illegal transportation of waste could lead to prison sentences of up to five years.
The Environment Agency will have stronger powers to cancel permits and enforce rules.
Previously, it was easy to get a licence online by paying a fee, allowing some to misuse the system.
A cow named Beau Vine was able to get a waste disposal licence under the old system, showing its weaknesses.
The changes are part of a wider plan to fight waste crime, including new powers for local authorities and tougher penalties for fly-tipping.
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A group of hikers on Mount Everest recorded a video showing an avalanche, which is a large and fast downhill flow of snow. The hikers quickly closed their tent as the snow moved toward them.
Key Facts
The video shows an avalanche on Mount Everest.
The snow moved quickly down the mountain.
The hikers were camping near the avalanche.
They zipped up their tent fast to protect themselves.
Avalanches can be dangerous events on mountains.
The footage was captured by one of the hikers.
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At least six Americans were exposed to the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with three facing high-risk exposure and one showing symptoms. The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak in Congo and Uganda a public health emergency, while the CDC warns that the overall risk to Americans remains low.
Key Facts
Six Americans were exposed to Ebola virus in Congo; three had high-risk exposure.
One American exposed to Ebola showed symptoms of the disease.
The Ebola outbreak is currently affecting areas in Congo and Uganda.
The WHO declared this Ebola outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern."
There have been over 300 suspected cases and at least 80 deaths reported in Congo.
The CDC confirmed eight laboratory cases this year and is helping safely evacuate affected Americans.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids, not through casual or air contact.
Travelers to Congo and Uganda are advised to take extra precautions and avoid people showing symptoms like fever and rash.
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The cruise ship MV Hondius, affected by a hantavirus outbreak, has arrived in Rotterdam for cleaning and quarantine. The virus has caused several illnesses and deaths, and authorities are isolating the crew and medical staff to prevent further spread.
Key Facts
MV Hondius is a Dutch cruise ship hit by a hantavirus outbreak.
The ship docked in Rotterdam for disinfection and quarantine on May 18, 2026.
There are 25 crew members and two medical staff remaining on board.
At least three people have died from the virus, including a Dutch couple and a German citizen.
The outbreak was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 2, 2026.
Hantavirus is usually spread by rodents, but can rarely spread between people after close contact.
The virus involved is the Andes virus, common in Argentina and Chile.
The WHO recommends a 42-day quarantine for people at high risk of infection.
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Andy Burnham is set to be Labour’s candidate in the Makerfield by-election but faces a tough race against Reform UK. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo an international health emergency.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham is likely confirmed as Labour’s candidate for the Makerfield by-election.
Polls show Burnham only slightly ahead of Reform UK’s candidate in the contest.
Some Labour members blame Wes Streeting for weakening Burnham’s position by raising Brexit issues.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Lord Michael Gove oppose calls for the UK to rejoin the EU.
Burnham now says he will focus on local issues and not push to rejoin the EU during the campaign.
The World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a public health emergency of international concern.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure amid possible leadership challenges within Labour.
Other news includes police ending investigations into a disappearance case in Greece and preparations for England’s World Cup team’s comfort.
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President Donald Trump warned Iran to quickly agree to a peace deal or face destruction, as the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran has increased instability and energy prices in the Middle East. Despite a ceasefire agreement in April, peace talks have stalled, and fighting between Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel continues.
Key Facts
President Trump issued a warning on May 17, 2026, saying Iran must move fast toward a peace deal or "there won't be anything left of them."
The conflict began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran starting February 28, 2026.
The war has caused a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for 20% of the world’s oil exports.
Hezbollah has fired about 200 projectiles into Israel despite a ceasefire extended between Israel and Lebanon.
Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed over 2,900 people, including 400 since the April 17 truce began.
Peace talks have stalled partly because Iran wants a ceasefire in Lebanon first, while the U.S. demands Iran limit its nuclear program and transfer enriched uranium to the U.S.
The U.S. has refused to release frozen Iranian assets or pay reparations connected to the war.
A recent drone strike near a nuclear power station in Abu Dhabi caused a fire, with no injuries or radiation impact reported.
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Amnesty International reported that the number of executions worldwide reached its highest level since 1981, mainly because Iran executed more than 2,150 people in 2025. The increase in executions is linked to political repression, especially after protests and conflicts involving Iran.
Key Facts
Amnesty confirmed at least 2,707 executions globally in 2025.
Iran accounted for 2,159 executions, more than twice the number in 2024.
China’s execution numbers are not included due to lack of official data but is believed to be the highest user of the death penalty.
Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt, Yemen, Singapore, and the United States also showed increases in executions.
The U.S. had 47 executions in 2025, the highest since 2009, with Florida carrying out 19.
Iran increased executions to suppress protests and political dissent following the 2025 war with Israel.
Other countries in the Middle East and Asia also reported significant rises in executions.
Amnesty says the rise in executions is tied to governments limiting freedoms and ignoring human rights laws.
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The number of executions worldwide in 2025 reached the highest level since 1981, mainly due to a large rise in executions in Iran. Amnesty International reported confirming at least 2,707 executions globally, with most occurring in Iran, alongside increases in several other countries.
Key Facts
At least 2,707 executions were confirmed worldwide in 2025.
Iran accounted for 2,159 executions, more than double the number in 2024.
The global total rose by more than two-thirds compared to the previous year.
China’s execution numbers remain unknown due to lack of public data but is considered the top user of the death penalty.
Other countries with increased executions include Saudi Arabia (356), Kuwait (17), Egypt (23), Yemen (51), Singapore (17), and the United States (47).
The U.S. increase was largely due to 19 executions in Florida, the highest since 2009.
Amnesty said Iran used the death penalty more to suppress political dissent after protests and conflicts in 2025.
Executions rose in countries where governments have tightened control and restricted human rights.
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Julianne Moore received an award at the Cannes Film Festival for her work supporting women in film. She said true gender equality is still far from being reached both in the film industry and worldwide.
Key Facts
Julianne Moore won an award for advocating for women in cinema during a Women in Motion event at Cannes.
She said gender equality is still a distant goal globally, not just in films.
The event was hosted by French luxury group Kering, which also gave a prize to Italian filmmaker Margherita Spampinato.
Moore has a long career and won an Oscar in 2015 for "Still Alice."
Moore urged steady, mindful progress toward equality by making choices, speaking up, and hiring more women.
Other actors like Salma Hayek praised Moore’s advocacy and career.
The Women in Motion award included a 50,000-euro prize to support emerging talent.
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Four crew members safely ejected after two Navy jets collided during an air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. Emergency teams responded quickly, and the base was locked down while an investigation took place.
Key Facts
The collision happened during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show in western Idaho.
All four crew members safely used ejector seats to leave the planes.
The crash occurred off the military base.
Witnesses saw the collision and four parachutes opening in the sky.
The base was locked down after the incident for security and safety reasons.
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds were the main attraction at the air show.
Weather conditions included good visibility and wind gusts up to 29 mph at the time.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing.
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Large wildfires are burning in Colorado, Minnesota, and Oklahoma, causing evacuations and emergency actions. State officials have called for evacuations and activated the National Guard to help people leave safely as the fires spread.
Key Facts
A fire called the Flanders Fire in Minnesota has rapidly grown to about 2,100 acres and is still not contained.
Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz has sent the National Guard to help with evacuations in Crow Wing County.
The Sharpe Fire in Colorado has led to a full evacuation of Baca County, affecting around 3,500 people.
The Sharpe Fire started in Oklahoma and moved into Colorado, burning at least 520 acres there.
Oklahoma is also dealing with the Hungate Fire, which has burned around 34,000 acres but is mostly under control.
High temperatures, drought, and strong winds have made conditions for fires worse in these areas.
Roads like Highway 287 were closed to control access but remain open for evacuees going to shelters.
Fire containment is low for some fires, meaning they are still spreading and not yet under control.
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Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran. They talked about security in the region and the relationship between their two countries, especially amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States.
Key Facts
The meeting took place in Tehran, Iran.
Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi led the Pakistani side.
Iran was represented by President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Discussions covered regional security issues.
They reviewed the bilateral ties between Pakistan and Iran.
Talks happened after Pakistan-led negotiations between Iran and the U.S. broke down.
There are growing tensions between Iran and the United States.
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A new research project called the National Conversation is asking people across the UK to share their thoughts about what would make the country a better place to live. Researchers at the University of Oxford will use artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze thousands of voice notes and surveys to understand what unites or divides people and what could bring communities closer together.
Key Facts
The National Conversation invites UK residents to share their views through a survey and a 60-second voice note.
High-profile people, including former footballer Gary Lineker and Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis, have submitted voice notes to launch the project.
Researchers at the University of Oxford will use AI to analyze the responses.
The project is led by the Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion, which aims to address social division and disconnection.
The project will continue until the end of August, with a report planned for later this year.
The Commission co-chairs include former Conservative Chancellor Sir Sajid Javid and former Labour Policy Coordinator Jon Cruddas.
People are asked to talk about what unites them, divides them, and what could bring them closer together.
Supporting organizations include the NHS, TikTok, UK Muslim Network, Church Urban Fund, and English Football League in the Community.
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Anderson Cooper is leaving the TV news program 60 Minutes after more than 20 years. He shared memories of working with famous journalists and talked about the importance of trust and storytelling in his work.
Key Facts
Anderson Cooper worked at 60 Minutes for over 20 years.
He traveled worldwide to find stories that showed the human side of news events.
Cooper admired the show since he was a child.
He worked alongside well-known journalists like Mike Wallace and Morley Safer.
Cooper spoke about how gaining people’s trust was very important in his interviews.
He described moments when he felt the cameras disappeared, making interviews more natural.
Cooper’s final sign-off on the show was "I'm Anderson Cooper."
His departure marks the end of a long and influential career on 60 Minutes.
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Christopher Nolan directed his new film "The Odyssey" as if it were the last movie he would ever make, following his usual intense approach. The film is the first ever shot entirely with IMAX film cameras and was filmed in multiple countries over 91 days.
Key Facts
"The Odyssey" is Nolan's 13th film in 28 years.
Nolan writes his own screenplays and aims to fully immerse audiences in the story.
The film was shot entirely on IMAX film cameras, a first for a theatrical release.
Filming locations included Greece, Iceland, Morocco, Italy, and Scotland.
Matt Damon starred in the film and said it was the hardest movie he has done.
Nolan’s earlier work includes well-known films like "Memento," "Inception," and "Oppenheimer."
Nolan was rejected by film school but persisted by making short films.
The director has won 18 Academy Awards and his films have earned over $6 billion worldwide.
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Comedian Nate Bargatze said that American comedy can make serious or difficult topics easier to understand by using humor. He believes that people in the U.S. can find something funny about almost any subject.
Key Facts
Nate Bargatze is a comedian.
He said comedy helps people see tough topics in a lighter way.
Bargatze thinks humor can be found nearly everywhere in America.
His view is that comedy makes dark or serious issues easier to talk about.
This statement was shared on CBS News.
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Analysts have noticed that many people are making money from bets on military operations by using a prediction market. The high success rate and the timing of these bets suggest that some bettors might have secret information about military actions before the public does.
Key Facts
People are betting on the results of military operations using a prediction market.
Many bettors have a high success rate in predicting military outcomes.
The timing of these bets looks unusual and suspicious.
Experts believe this pattern could mean insider trading is happening.
Insider trading means using private, secret information to gain an unfair advantage.
The article focuses on how these bets might be linked to classified military information.
Such insider trading is generally illegal and unethical.
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Since the start of the conflict in February 2024, executions of political prisoners in Iran have increased sharply. The United Nations and Amnesty International report at least 32 verified political executions this year, with many accused of spying or involvement in protests, while activists say forced confessions and repression are common.
Key Facts
Mehrab Abdollahzadeh, arrested during 2022 protests, was executed recently after being accused of killing a militia member; he denied all charges.
At least 32 political prisoners have been executed in Iran since February 28, 2024, according to the UN.
Amnesty International says 45 politically-motivated executions happened in Iran during 2025, a large increase from previous years.
Iran’s 2023 executions reached 2,159, the highest since 1989, mainly for drug or murder charges.
Executions often happen by hanging at dawn and are used to intimidate and stop political dissent.
Some executed were accused of spying for foreign countries or working with opposition groups.
The UN is concerned some executions happen secretly without public announcement.
Iran uses these executions to try to show control amid protests and external conflicts.
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The article describes the intense fighting on the front line near Kostyantynivka in eastern Ukraine, where new drone technology has changed the way soldiers fight. Ukrainian soldiers face constant threats from Russian forces and drones, making it very hard to move or rotate troops while defending critical territory in the Donbas region.
Key Facts
Ukrainian soldiers have been stuck in dangerous frontline positions for months, with limited ability to rotate out.
Drones play a major role in spotting and attacking soldiers, creating a "kill-zone" where moving is very risky.
Kostyantynivka is a strategic city; if Russia captures it, they can attack other important Ukrainian cities from multiple directions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin prioritizes capturing the Donbas region, aiming to achieve this by the end of 2024.
Modern warfare relies less on large troop movements and more on speed, small teams, and advanced machines like drones.
Drones cannot hold land, so infantry soldiers are still crucial for defending and controlling territory.
Ukrainian soldiers use anti-drone cloaks at night, but these only provide limited protection against drone detection.
Russian forces use kamikaze drones (drones that explode on impact) to attack Ukrainian positions directly.
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Fatima Bio, Sierra Leone’s first lady, escaped a planned child marriage during her childhood and later sought asylum in the UK. She became an activist for women’s rights, helping to pass a law banning child marriage in Sierra Leone in 2024, and is known for being both a vocal political figure and a subject of public criticism.
Key Facts
Fatima Bio was almost married off as a child by her father but escaped before the wedding during Sierra Leone’s civil war.
She moved to London as an asylum seeker at age 16 and gained independence and a voice to fight for others.
Fatima married Julius Bio, who became president of Sierra Leone in 2018 and was re-elected in 2023.
She advocates against child marriage and helped pass a law banning it in Sierra Leone in 2024.
Fatima Bio lives in the presidential residence in Freetown but also keeps a council flat in Southwark, London, which has caused controversy.
The council confirmed they check tenancies regularly but cannot comment on specific cases.
She attended a 2022 Buckingham Palace reception to raise awareness of violence against women with several international first ladies.
Fatima Bio maintains a family farm outside Freetown where she seems more relaxed than in public political settings.
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