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Israel says it has killed Hamas commander in Gaza air strike

Israel says it has killed Hamas commander in Gaza air strike

Summary

Israel says it killed Hamas commander Izz ad-Din al-Haddad in an air strike on Gaza City. The strike happened despite a ceasefire, and it targeted a residential building and a car, causing fires and casualties. Hamas has not confirmed the killing.

Key Facts

  • Israel targeted Hamas commander Izz ad-Din al-Haddad, calling him responsible for the October 7 attacks on Israel.
  • The air strike hit an apartment building called Al-Mu'taz and then a car fleeing the scene.
  • Three people were reported killed in the car strike; rescue teams had difficulty evacuating wounded from the building.
  • Israel says it has the right to target Hamas members despite an ongoing ceasefire since October 10.
  • Hamas accuses Israel of breaking the ceasefire and attacking civilians; Israel says Hamas refuses to disarm.
  • US-led peace talks aimed at Gaza’s disarmament and reconstruction are stalled.
  • The conflict began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostage.
  • Since then, over 72,700 people have died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
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Is the US dialling down its support for Taiwan?

Is the US dialling down its support for Taiwan?

Summary

The United States has reduced its support for Taiwan by stopping a $14 billion arms sale, as part of diplomacy ahead of President Donald Trump’s visit to China. Despite this, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said Taiwan remains the most important issue in US-China relations.

Key Facts

  • One year ago, US-China relations worsened after President Trump announced “Liberation Day” tariffs.
  • President Trump later made some compromises during a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
  • The US paused a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan before President Trump’s China visit.
  • China claims Taiwan as part of its territory.
  • Xi Jinping stated that Taiwan is the most important issue between China and the US.
  • Experts discussed the possibility that tensions over Taiwan could cause conflict between the two countries.
  • The guests in the discussion are experts in US-China relations and global politics.
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Three's a party: US, China, and now Russia are on the prowl in GEO

Three's a party: US, China, and now Russia are on the prowl in GEO

Summary

The United States, China, and now Russia are actively using satellites in geosynchronous orbit to observe and gather information about one another's space activities. Russia recently launched a new satellite, Kosmos 2589, into this orbit, where US satellites are monitoring it closely.

Key Facts

  • Geosynchronous orbit (GEO) is about 22,000 miles above Earth’s equator, allowing satellites to stay over the same spot on Earth.
  • The US military has used “inspector” satellites since 2014 to approach and observe other countries' satellites in GEO.
  • China began similar satellite missions in 2018 and has satellites that can maneuver close to US military satellites.
  • Russia recently launched Kosmos 2589 and Kosmos 2590 satellites, which performed maneuvers before Kosmos 2589 moved into GEO in April 2025.
  • A US GSSAP satellite is currently following Kosmos 2589 closely, coming within about 8 miles (13 kilometers) twice a day.
  • These satellites are used for reconnaissance—to see where other satellites are, what they look like, and what they can do.
  • Russia’s previous satellites in GEO mostly focused on listening to or jamming communications.
  • The purpose of Kosmos 2589 is not fully known, but some suspect it may be an anti-satellite system.
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Israel and Lebanon agree ceasefire extension, US says

Israel and Lebanon agree ceasefire extension, US says

Summary

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend their ceasefire by 45 days following talks in Washington, according to the US State Department. The discussions aim to promote lasting peace and security along their shared border.

Key Facts

  • Israel and Lebanon agreed to a 45-day ceasefire extension.
  • The agreement followed two days of talks held in Washington, D.C.
  • More negotiations are planned for June 2-3.
  • The ceasefire had been set to expire on Sunday.
  • The Israeli military reported attacks on Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon after alerts of hostile aircraft.
  • Lebanon’s health ministry said nearly 40 people were injured in Israeli strikes near the city of Tyre.
  • A primary healthcare center was destroyed and a nearby hospital was damaged in the strikes, resulting in injuries to six medical staff.
  • The US hopes the talks will lead to lasting peace, mutual recognition of sovereignty, and improved border security.
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Israel and Lebanon agree to 45-day extension of ceasefire, U.S. State Department says

Israel and Lebanon agree to 45-day extension of ceasefire, U.S. State Department says

Summary

Iran's foreign minister said that distrust is the main problem in talks with the U.S. to end the war. Meanwhile, Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend their ceasefire for 45 days following discussions in Washington, with plans for more negotiations in early June.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said Iran doubts the seriousness of the U.S. in peace talks.
  • Iran is open to diplomatic help from other countries, especially China, to ease tensions.
  • President Donald Trump called Iran’s nuclear proposal "garbage" and demands removal of highly enriched uranium from Iran.
  • Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend their ceasefire by 45 days after talks in Washington.
  • Despite the ceasefire, both Israel and Hezbollah have recently exchanged attacks.
  • Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, an important route for global oil supply, which remains blocked by the U.S.
  • China and Pakistan have shown interest in helping diplomatic efforts in the region.
  • Negotiations continue to focus on Iran’s nuclear program and uranium enrichment.
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Ebola outbreak with uncommon strain erupts in Congo and Uganda; 65 deaths

Ebola outbreak with uncommon strain erupts in Congo and Uganda; 65 deaths

Summary

An Ebola outbreak has been confirmed in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and has spread to Uganda, with 65 deaths reported so far. This outbreak involves a different Ebola virus strain than usual, which may affect vaccine and treatment efforts.

Key Facts

  • The outbreak started in the Ituri province in northeastern DRC.
  • Uganda has reported one confirmed Ebola case linked to this outbreak in its capital, Kampala.
  • There are 246 suspected Ebola cases and 65 deaths mainly in DRC's Mongwalu and Rwampara areas.
  • This is the 17th Ebola outbreak in DRC since Ebola was discovered in 1976.
  • Preliminary tests show the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo Ebola strain, not the usual Zaire strain.
  • Existing vaccines and treatments were developed for the Zaire strain, so they might be less effective.
  • Factors complicating the response include urban settings, high population movement, mining activity, and local militia clashes.
  • Regional cooperation among DRC, Uganda, South Sudan, and international health agencies is underway to control the outbreak.
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Israel and Lebanon agree to extend ceasefire, US state department says

Israel and Lebanon agree to extend ceasefire, US state department says

Summary

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend a ceasefire for 45 days after talks in Washington, according to the US State Department. Despite the truce, occasional fighting continues between Israel and Hezbollah along their shared border.

Key Facts

  • The ceasefire extension was agreed following two days of negotiations in Washington DC.
  • The US State Department hopes the talks will lead to lasting peace and mutual recognition of borders.
  • President Donald Trump announced the original truce on April 16.
  • Despite the ceasefire, Israeli air strikes killed 22 people, including 8 children, in southern Lebanon recently.
  • The US will restart political talks in June and begin security talks at the Pentagon on May 29 with military officials from both sides.
  • There have been nearly daily clashes between Hezbollah and Israel since the ceasefire began.
  • Israel says it targets Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure, while Lebanon accuses Israel of targeting civilians and paramedics; Israel denies these accusations.
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WHO confirms 10 global hantavirus cases, Hondius crew remain symptom-free

WHO confirms 10 global hantavirus cases, Hondius crew remain symptom-free

Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed there are currently 10 cases of hantavirus worldwide, down from the earlier count of 11. The outbreak began on the Dutch cruise ship MV Hondius, where three people have died, but the crew and captain show no symptoms so far.

Key Facts

  • WHO updated the global hantavirus cases from 11 to 10 after one person tested negative.
  • Eight cases are confirmed by lab tests; two are probable but not yet confirmed.
  • The outbreak started on the MV Hondius, a Dutch luxury cruise ship on a polar expedition from Argentina.
  • Three people have died due to the hantavirus outbreak on the ship.
  • The ship’s 26 crew members and captain remain on board and have no symptoms currently.
  • Hantavirus incubation can take up to six weeks, so more cases may appear as passengers return home.
  • The virus strain involved (Andes virus) can spread between humans after close, long contact.
  • There are no approved vaccines or specific treatments; care is supportive to relieve symptoms.
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Watch: Historic Texas Railroad Bridge Goes Up in Flames

Watch: Historic Texas Railroad Bridge Goes Up in Flames

Summary

A fast-moving wildfire in the Texas Panhandle destroyed a historic railroad bridge near Canyon, Texas. The fire, named the Hunggate Fire, spread quickly over 14,000 acres, caused evacuations, and is now about 40 percent contained as firefighters continue working to control it.

Key Facts

  • The Hunggate Fire started on Thursday near Canyon in Randall County, Texas.
  • The wildfire burned about 14,000 acres and destroyed a historic railroad trestle bridge.
  • The fire spread rapidly, driven by strong winds and lightning from dry thunderstorms (storms with lightning but little or no rain).
  • Mandatory evacuations were ordered for nearby residents, with shelters opened in Canyon.
  • Firefighters have brought the fire to about 40 percent containment, meaning they have controlled parts of the fire's edges.
  • Five active wildfires were burning across northern Texas at the time, with some already fully contained.
  • Red flag warnings remain in effect, indicating high fire danger due to low humidity, dry vegetation, and strong winds.
  • Texas A&M Forest Service increased wildfire preparedness and urged caution with outdoor burning.
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The week around the world in 20 pictures

The week around the world in 20 pictures

Summary

The article shows images from different parts of the world reflecting ongoing conflicts and political events. It highlights Israeli military actions in Lebanon and Gaza, Russian attacks on Ukraine, and key political moments involving leaders like President Donald Trump in China and UK politicians.

Key Facts

  • Israel has ordered about 14.3% of Lebanon’s land to be evacuated, displacing over 1.2 million people.
  • Israeli airstrikes continue to cause casualties in Lebanon and Gaza despite a ceasefire starting April 17.
  • Hezbollah has increased attacks on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, while Israel has targeted areas close to Beirut.
  • Russian forces attacked Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine using drones, causing damage and casualties.
  • Ukraine responded with drone strikes on Russian infrastructure, including a large oil refinery.
  • President Donald Trump visited Beijing, the first US president to do so in nearly ten years, aiming to improve relations with China.
  • UK Labour health secretary Wes Streeting resigned, calling for a leadership contest within the party.
  • Russian President Vladimir Putin participated in a ceremony in Moscow amid ongoing conflict tensions with Ukraine.
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Canada’s Carney travels to Alberta as separatists face legal setback

Canada’s Carney travels to Alberta as separatists face legal setback

Summary

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Alberta to announce a new oil pipeline agreement with the province's leader, Danielle Smith. This visit happened shortly after a court blocked a separatist group’s effort to hold a referendum on Alberta leaving Canada.

Key Facts

  • Mark Carney is Canada’s Prime Minister and recently traveled to Alberta.
  • Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith revealed a new crude oil pipeline plan.
  • A court ruled against a separatist effort to hold a referendum on Alberta’s independence.
  • The court said Indigenous peoples should be consulted because secession could affect their rights.
  • A separatist group had collected over 300,000 signatures to request the referendum.
  • Premier Smith disagreed with the court ruling and plans to appeal.
  • About one-third of Albertans support the idea of secession in polls.
  • The pipeline deal includes strict environmental rules like carbon taxes and carbon capture.
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Man hit by van in Birmingham after residents take down union flags put up by anti-migrant group

Man hit by van in Birmingham after residents take down union flags put up by anti-migrant group

Summary

A man was seriously injured in Birmingham after being hit by a van following an altercation involving people removing union flags put up by the group Raise the Colours. Police are investigating the incident, which included reports of aggressive behavior and abuse from individuals connected to the group.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened Thursday evening in Stirchley, a suburb of Birmingham.
  • A man in his 30s broke his leg and remains in hospital after being hit by a van.
  • The van fled the scene but was found and is being examined by police.
  • Around 10 people gathered to take down union flags placed earlier by Raise the Colours.
  • Witnesses described men wearing Raise the Colours clothing as aggressive and abusive.
  • Raise the Colours is known for putting up many union and Saint George flags and has faced criticism for anti-immigrant messages.
  • Police are reviewing CCTV and social media footage to understand what happened.
  • Local MP Al Carns reported residents described harassment and physical assaults linked to the group.
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Trump waffles on Taiwan arms deal after Xi talks

Trump waffles on Taiwan arms deal after Xi talks

Summary

President Donald Trump expressed uncertainty about approving a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan after talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump prioritized avoiding a war over Taiwan and indicated he might reconsider longstanding U.S. policies on arms sales to the island.

Key Facts

  • President Trump discussed Taiwan arms sales in detail with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
  • The planned arms package for Taiwan is worth $14 billion and includes missiles and air defense systems.
  • Trump said he does not want to provoke a conflict 9,500 miles away, referring to Taiwan.
  • The U.S. had a 1982 agreement not to consult China on Taiwan arms sales, but Trump questioned its relevance.
  • Trump plans to make new decisions on arms sales, prioritizing avoiding war over following past agreements.
  • The arms sale has caused concern in Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and among U.S. lawmakers.
  • Taiwan approved funds to proceed with the arms sales only recently, after months of delay.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that U.S. policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged despite Trump’s comments.
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Tensions flare near Strait of Hormuz as one ship is seized and another is sunk

Tensions flare near Strait of Hormuz as one ship is seized and another is sunk

Summary

A ship near the United Arab Emirates was seized and taken toward Iran, and another cargo ship near Oman sank after an attack, raising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. These incidents occurred amid ongoing disputes over control of the vital waterway, while U.S. President Donald Trump met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and both agreed the strait must remain open.

Key Facts

  • A ship anchored near the UAE port of Fujairah was seized by unauthorized personnel and is heading toward Iranian waters.
  • An Indian-flagged cargo ship named Haji Ali sank off Oman after an attack caused a fire; all 14 crew members were rescued and safe.
  • Indian authorities condemned attacks on commercial ships but did not name the attacker.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
  • Iran recently asserted its right to control the strait and to seize oil tankers linked to the U.S.
  • Chinese ships began passing through the strait under new Iranian protocols during President Trump’s visit to China.
  • The UAE port of Fujairah has been repeatedly targeted during the conflict involving Iran.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed a secret visit to the UAE, a country that has normalized ties with Israel but denies the visit to avoid regional backlash.
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Trump-Xi, the alpha power summit: a debrief

Trump-Xi, the alpha power summit: a debrief

Summary

President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping recently held a summit focused on their countries' relationship. The meeting featured discussions about trade deals and regional security, including issues concerning Taiwan.

Key Facts

  • President Trump described the trade deals made with China as "fantastic."
  • China issued warnings related to Taiwan during the summit period.
  • Dr. Bates Gill, an expert on China and Asian security, provided analysis on the summit.
  • Freda Gordon, who studies global chemical markets, contributed to the discussion on economic ties.
  • The summit was seen as an important event in managing the complex relationship between the US and China.
  • Other topics included regional security and global power dynamics.
  • The meeting occurred amid ongoing concerns about Taiwan's status and international trade.
  • The event was covered by international news outlets and included expert commentary.
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Prominent N.Y. synagogue targeted in alleged terror plot, prosecutors say

Prominent N.Y. synagogue targeted in alleged terror plot, prosecutors say

Summary

An Iraqi man named Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi is accused of planning terrorist attacks in the U.S., including targeting a Jewish synagogue in New York. He allegedly worked with Iranian-backed terrorist groups and tried to hire someone to carry out a bombing in April.

Key Facts

  • Al-Saadi is charged with supporting Iranian-backed terrorist groups like the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Kata'ib Hizbollah.
  • He is accused of planning about 18 attacks against U.S. and Israeli interests in Europe since March 9.
  • Prosecutors say he tried to recruit an undercover agent to bomb a prominent Jewish synagogue in New York.
  • He showed photos and maps of the synagogue and other Jewish centers, including ones in Los Angeles and Arizona.
  • Al-Saadi allegedly agreed to pay $10,000 in cryptocurrency for the attack, sending $3,000 as a down payment.
  • Authorities arrested Al-Saadi after the planned attack date of April 6.
  • Court documents include pictures of him meeting with Qasem Soleimani, the former IRGC leader.
  • Al-Saadi appeared in court in Manhattan and remains in custody, with his next hearing scheduled for June 29.
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Trump & Xi, Carry on Westminster, the french pivot

Trump & Xi, Carry on Westminster, the french pivot

Summary

President Donald Trump visited Beijing for a state visit, meeting President Xi amid tensions over trade, technology, and Taiwan. In the UK, political uncertainty rose as Labour Party leadership challenges emerged after poor local election results, while French President Emmanuel Macron focused on strengthening ties and investments in Africa.

Key Facts

  • President Trump’s visit to Beijing was the first by a U.S. leader in nearly 10 years.
  • Discussions involved trade issues, technology competition, and Taiwan, but no direct comments on Taiwan from Trump.
  • President Xi aims for China to be the leading global power by 2049.
  • In the UK, Labour Party faced its worst local election performance, sparking leadership rumors and cabinet unrest.
  • Leaders mentioned as potential successors include Wes Streeting, Angela Rayner, and Andy Burnham.
  • French President Macron visited Africa, attending the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya and planning €14 billion in investments.
  • Macron seeks to shift French influence from former colonies to English-speaking African countries.
  • This shift targets competition with China, which has a strong presence in African markets.
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‘There’s a deer trapped in an escalator’: muntjac rescued from Norwich M&S

‘There’s a deer trapped in an escalator’: muntjac rescued from Norwich M&S

Summary

A small deer called a muntjac got stuck in an escalator at a Marks & Spencer store in Norwich. Animal experts from Hillside Animal Sanctuary rescued the deer, which only had a small cut and is now recovering.

Key Facts

  • The deer was trapped upside down between glass panels next to the escalator handrail inside the M&S store.
  • Staff covered the deer with a blanket to keep it calm before the rescue.
  • Ian Haywood, a worker from Hillside Animal Sanctuary, carefully freed the deer.
  • The deer was nicknamed "lucky Lucy" because it was not badly hurt.
  • The sanctuary feeds Lucy branches, grass, and leaves while she rests and recovers.
  • Deer often get trapped in unusual places when they panic, according to the sanctuary founder.
  • Hillside Animal Sanctuary rescues multiple wild deer every day.
  • M&S staff responded quickly to keep the animal safe until help arrived.
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Zelenskyy vows response after Russian strike kills 24 in Kyiv

Zelenskyy vows response after Russian strike kills 24 in Kyiv

Summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia’s recent missile strike killed at least 24 people in Kyiv and vowed to respond with attacks on Russian energy and military sites. Ukraine launched drone strikes on Russian infrastructure after the attack, which was the largest Russian aerial assault on Ukraine in over four years.

Key Facts

  • A Russian missile strike hit a nine-story apartment block in Kyiv, killing at least 24 people, including three children.
  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy called strikes on Russia’s oil and military facilities “entirely justified” in response.
  • Ukraine launched a large-scale drone attack targeting Russian energy and military infrastructure in several regions, including Ryazan.
  • At least four people, including a child, were killed in the Ukrainian drone strike on Ryazan; the local oil refinery was also hit.
  • Ukraine and Russia exchanged 205 prisoners of war each as part of a ceasefire arranged by President Donald Trump.
  • Both sides plan to exchange around 1,000 prisoners in total and also exchanged the remains of fallen soldiers.
  • Russian President Vladimir Putin said the war is nearing its end, but Zelenskyy rejected this, saying Russia intends to continue fighting.
  • President Donald Trump said the recent attack on the Kyiv apartment block could delay peace efforts, despite his campaign promise to end the war.
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Marion Cotillard reunites with Ex, Guillaume Canet, in new Cannes film

Marion Cotillard reunites with Ex, Guillaume Canet, in new Cannes film

Summary

Actress Marion Cotillard stars in the new film "Karma," directed by her former partner Guillaume Canet. This is their ninth film together and their first since they ended their relationship. The movie premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.

Key Facts

  • Marion Cotillard plays the lead role in "Karma," a psychological thriller.
  • The film is directed by Guillaume Canet, Cotillard’s ex-partner.
  • This is their ninth collaboration as actor and director.
  • "Karma" tells the story of a woman whose life falls apart after her young godson goes missing.
  • The film is featured at the Cannes Film Festival.
  • John Travolta also presented his first movie as a director at Cannes.
  • The festival showcases many international films and events related to cinema.
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