World News

Israeli lawmakers set up a special tribunal and allow for death penalty for Hamas-led 2023 attackers

May 12, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Israeli lawmakers approved a law to create a special court that will try Palestinians involved in the 2023 Hamas-led attack and could sentence them to death. The bill passed with strong support and includes live-streamed trials and a special appeals court, drawing criticism from rights groups over fairness concerns.

Key Facts

The Israeli Knesset voted 93-0 to create a special tribunal for Palestinians accused in the 2023 Hamas attack.
The tribunal can impose the death penalty, which has not been used in Israel since 1962.
Trials will be live-streamed from Jerusalem and judged by a panel with majority vote power.
Appeals must be heard by a special appeals court, not regular courts.
Critics worry about fair trial protections and possible pressure on defendants to confess.
The 2023 attack led to around 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages taken by Hamas militants.
Israeli military operations in response killed over 72,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to Gaza Health Ministry figures.
The new law is separate from a March law enabling the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of murdering Israelis in future cases.

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Starving on the front lines: Food supply in crisis as Ukraine fights Russia

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines face severe food shortages after being cut off from regular supplies due to damaged infrastructure and ongoing combat. Advances in military drone technology have made traditional supply methods difficult, forcing reliance on drones and robotic carts to deliver food, ammunition, and medical aid.

Key Facts

Four Ukrainian soldiers were reported starving after going up to 17 days without food delivery.
Bridges damaged by Russian attacks blocked supply routes, isolating soldiers on the eastern side of the Oskil River.
Soldiers resort to eating limited rations like chocolate bars and oatmeal, with some drinking rainwater.
Military drones now monitor the front lines constantly, making open movement dangerous.
Suicide drones have made heavy vehicles vulnerable, forcing soldiers to use fast-moving pickups sparingly.
Robotized carts and delivery drones are used to carry supplies and evacuate wounded troops.
Front-line logistics rely heavily on technology due to the risk and difficulty of traditional supply routes.
Both Ukrainian and Russian soldiers face supply and operational challenges from these combat conditions.

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Al Jazeera

Africa Forward Summit Day 2: Macron pitches new French partnership model

May 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

At the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya, French President Emmanuel Macron proposed a new way for France to work with African countries. Leaders from over 30 African nations attended the event, where Macron also announced a €23 billion investment plan for the continent.

Key Facts

The Africa Forward Summit took place at the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
More than 30 African countries sent leaders and officials to the summit.
President Emmanuel Macron presented a new French partnership model for Africa.
Macron announced a €23 billion investment in Africa during the summit.
Kenya’s President William Ruto also took part in the event.
The summit aims to strengthen cooperation between France and African nations.
The new partnership model focuses on mutual benefits and long-term development.
The event highlights France’s strategic interest in Africa’s growth and stability.

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France24

Why is Israel allowed to take part in the Eurovision song contest?

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Vienna, Austria, with Israel competing this year. Several countries, including Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain, and Iceland, announced they will boycott the contest because of Israel’s participation due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The contest is organized by the European Broadcasting Union, which allows countries with European broadcasting ties to participate.

Key Facts

Eurovision is an annual music contest organized by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) since 1956.
The 70th edition of Eurovision will be held in Vienna, Austria, on May 16, 2026.
Israel has participated since 1973 and hosted the contest in Tel Aviv in 2019.
This year, Israel is represented by singer Noam Bettan with the song "Michelle."
Five countries (Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain, and Iceland) are boycotting Eurovision due to Israel’s participation linked to the Gaza conflict.
Over 1,000 musicians and cultural workers signed a letter calling for a boycott and criticized the contest’s organizers for banning Russia but allowing Israel.
Eurovision participants are mainly European countries, but some non-European nations can join by invitation.
Each country submits one song performed by up to six artists, with events including semifinals and a final round.

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Al Jazeera

Iran war: What’s happening on day 74 as Tehran says ready for ‘aggression’

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Tensions between the United States and Iran remain high after President Trump called the fragile ceasefire “on life support” and rejected Iran’s response to his peace proposal. Iran warned it is ready to respond to any attack, while diplomatic talks have stalled amid ongoing conflicts affecting global energy and regional security.

Key Facts

President Trump rejected Iran’s latest response to his peace proposal, calling it “stupid.”
Iran’s parliamentary speaker said Iranian forces are ready to retaliate if attacked and warned the US would be surprised.
Iran seized six properties linked to exiled football captain Ali Karimi, a critic of the regime.
The US and Iran disagree on core issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and security guarantees.
US, UK, and French officials are meeting to discuss securing trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The US has imposed new sanctions on individuals and entities over Iranian oil sales to China.
Rising fuel costs linked to the conflict are causing higher transport and supermarket prices in the US.
Israel and Lebanon continue to experience disruptions and attacks linked to the broader conflict.

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Al Jazeera

Malaysia rescues 23 migrants after boat capsizes, 14 still missing

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A boat carrying 37 undocumented migrants sank off Malaysia’s west coast. So far, local fishermen have rescued 23 people, and 14 are still missing as authorities continue their search.

Key Facts

The boat had 37 undocumented migrants when it sank near Perak state, Malaysia.
Local fishermen rescued 23 survivors, including 16 men and 7 women.
The missing number of migrants is 14.
The migrants left Kisaran, Indonesia on May 9, headed for several places in Malaysia.
Malaysian authorities are using boats, a helicopter, and aircraft to search for the missing people.
Human trafficking groups often organize these dangerous crossings, causing many accidents.
Malaysia has millions of migrants, many undocumented, working in industries like construction and farming.
In a similar incident in November 2025, 36 migrants died when their boat capsized near the Thai-Malaysian coast.

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Al Jazeera

France seeks to move beyond colonial ties by meeting African leaders in Kenya

May 12, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

France is hosting an Africa Forward Summit in Kenya to build new partnerships with African countries beyond former colonial ties. French President Emmanuel Macron announced $27 billion in investments in areas like energy, technology, and agriculture, aiming to support African growth and job creation while encouraging business exchanges between Africa and France.

Key Facts

France is co-hosting the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, marking the first time it is held in an English-speaking African country.
President Macron announced plans for $27 billion in investments in Africa, targeting energy transition, digital technologies, maritime economy, and agriculture.
The investments aim to create about 250,000 jobs both in Africa and France.
The summit seeks to move away from France’s traditional colonial-style relations with African countries, focusing on more equal partnerships.
Kenya’s Foreign Minister said the summit sends a message about not limiting cooperation by language groups like Anglophone or Francophone.
Some former French colonies in West Africa, such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, have expelled French troops and turned to Russia for military help.
President Macron explained France reduced its military presence because its troops were no longer wanted after recent coups.
Kenya is described as a “bridge-builder” in Africa due to its unique colonial history and diplomatic role.

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BBC World

What to know about Trump-Xi summit with trade, Taiwan and Iran on the agenda

May 12, 2026 • ABC News

Summary

Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump are preparing for a summit aimed at maintaining stable relations between China and the United States. Key topics include trade issues, Taiwan, and Iran, but experts do not expect major breakthroughs due to ongoing tensions.

Key Facts

China-U.S. relations have been broadly stable in recent months, and both countries want to keep it that way.
Trade conflicts started during Trump’s first term and intensified with high tariffs announced in April 2025, reaching as high as 145%.
Both sides agreed to a trade truce, halting many tariffs and promising actions like China purchasing American soybeans.
The trade truce did not resolve bigger issues, and China introduced new export rules on rare earth minerals.
China has instructed some companies to ignore U.S. sanctions, such as those related to Iranian crude oil.
The summit may result in continuing the trade truce and creating a new “Board of Trade” to improve economic talks.
Taiwan remains a difficult topic because the U.S. is its main ally, which China opposes.
Iran’s war and peace efforts are expected to be discussed, with China acting as an unofficial mediator.

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ABC News

Middle East crisis live: Trump says Iran ceasefire is on ‘massive life support’

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump said the ceasefire with Iran, effective since April 7, is very weak and close to failing after rejecting Iran’s peace offer. Iran responded by saying their armed forces are ready to react to any attack, while tensions remain high due to stalled talks and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has raised global energy prices.

Key Facts

A ceasefire between the US-Israel coalition and Iran has been in place since April 7.
President Trump called the ceasefire "on massive life support" after rejecting Iran’s peace proposal.
Iran’s parliamentary speaker warned they are prepared to respond to any aggression.
The Strait of Hormuz is closed to countries hostile to Iran, causing global energy prices to rise.
The closure has increased costs for gas and fertilizer in the US.
President Trump is reportedly frustrated by divisions among Iranian leaders that slow negotiations.
Trump may consider restarting major military attacks but is unlikely to decide before his upcoming visit to China.
The US seeks progress in nuclear talks with Iran but faces challenges due to Iran’s internal disagreements.

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Guardian World

Global energy crisis highlights meagre oil buffers in developing world

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The global energy crisis caused by a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz has led to high fuel prices, hitting developing countries hardest because they have very little oil saved for emergencies. Rich, industrialized countries have emergency oil reserves to help manage shocks, but poorer nations often cannot afford or maintain this kind of stockpile.

Key Facts

The Strait of Hormuz blockade is causing a severe energy shortage worldwide.
Fuel prices have risen sharply due to the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Developing countries rely heavily on imported fuel and have small or no emergency oil reserves.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) includes only industrialized countries from the OECD.
IEA members are required to keep enough oil to cover 90 days of imports as a safety buffer.
As of March, IEA countries held 1.2 billion barrels in public reserves and 600 million barrels privately.
China and other non-IEA countries like India, Saudi Arabia, and Iran also keep large oil reserves.
The top 10 countries with the most oil reserves hold about 70% of global stockpiles but only represent half the world's population.

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Al Jazeera

Why is the Cannes Film Festival... in Cannes?

May 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

The Cannes Film Festival started as a response to political censorship and propaganda from Fascist Italy. It grew into a symbol of artistic freedom and is held every year in the French city of Cannes on the Mediterranean coast.

Key Facts

The Cannes Film Festival was created because of political issues with Fascist Italy.
It began as a way to oppose censorship and propaganda in film.
The festival celebrates freedom of artistic expression.
It takes place on the French Riviera in the city of Cannes.
Cannes is located in the south of France by the Mediterranean Sea.
The festival is one of the most famous film events in the world.
It is held every year and attracts filmmakers and audiences globally.

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France24

Keir Starmer to face crucial cabinet meeting as ministers and MPs urge him to resign – UK politics live

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Labour Party leader Keir Starmer is facing pressure from several ministers and Members of Parliament to resign after recent election losses. Some cabinet members have urged him to handle a smooth transition, while others want him to remain and continue fighting.

Key Facts

Keir Starmer is the leader of the UK Labour Party.
Many Labour MPs, including government loyalists and private secretaries, have called for Starmer’s resignation.
Senior cabinet ministers Yvette Cooper (foreign secretary) and Shabana Mahmood (home secretary) advised Starmer to plan an orderly transfer of power.
At least two other ministers, John Healey and David Lammy, discussed a dignified approach to the transition.
Several ministers, including Richard Heamer and Steve Reed, want Starmer to stay and fight on.
A crucial cabinet meeting is scheduled to decide on the leadership situation.
Starmer has stated he will fight any attempt to remove him.
The situation remains uncertain, with the possibility Starmer may announce his resignation soon.

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Guardian World

Trump and Xi appear intent on keeping deep differences over Iran war from overshadowing China summit

May 12, 2026 • AP News

Summary

President Donald Trump is traveling to Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping amid ongoing tensions over the Iran war. The U.S. wants China to use its influence to help end the conflict or reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but both sides aim to keep their differences from harming broader relations.

Key Facts

President Trump is visiting China to meet with President Xi Jinping after weeks of trying to involve China in resolving the Iran war.
China is the largest buyer of Iranian oil and has influence over Iran.
The U.S. wants China to help end the war or reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route.
The White House expects limited success in persuading China to change its stance on Iran.
Both countries want to focus on other issues like trade and cooperation to block dangerous drugs from entering the U.S.
The U.S. recently sanctioned Chinese firms for helping Iran carry out military strikes and buying Iranian oil.
China has condemned the sanctions and used a law to block them from affecting its companies.
China also supports peace efforts by backing Pakistan’s attempts to broker a deal in the Iran conflict.

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AP News

Tuesday briefing: Starmer’s ‘last chance’ speech and the possible challengers to his premiership

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Keir Starmer, leader of the UK Labour Party, gave a speech aimed at stopping calls for his replacement after a big election loss. Although he made some policy promises, many Labour MPs remain unhappy and want him to step aside. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump said a ceasefire with Iran is unstable, and he may restart US navy escorts in the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Facts

Over 70 Labour MPs have publicly asked Keir Starmer to resign as party leader.
Starmer promised to return British Steel to public ownership, improve relations with the EU, and guarantee jobs or training for young people.
Critics say these promises were repeats or already ongoing policies.
Starmer warned Labour must avoid leadership chaos like the recent Conservative governments had.
Starmer strongly criticized Reform UK MP Nigel Farage, accusing him of abandoning Britain after Brexit harm.
Reform UK councillor resigned after offensive social media posts.
President Donald Trump stated the Iran ceasefire is on "life support."
Trump is considering restarting U.S. naval escorts to protect ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions with Iran.

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Guardian World

Israel approves law on public trials, death penalty for October 7 detainees

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Israel’s parliament approved a law to create special courts that can give the death penalty to Palestinians accused of involvement in the October 7 Hamas attacks. The law allows public trials to be broadcast online and lowers some legal protections for the accused. Human rights groups warn that the law risks unfair trials and violates international standards.

Key Facts

The Israeli Knesset passed the bill by a vote of 93-0, with 27 members absent or abstaining.
The new law targets Palestinians accused of participating in the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas.
It establishes a special tribunal that can sentence accused Palestinians to death.
The law requires key parts of the trials to be filmed and shown publicly on a website, which is a change from usual Israeli practices.
Critics say the law allows evidence gained under pressure or abuse to be used and lowers fair trial rights.
Around 200-300 Palestinians are being held in connection with the attacks but have not yet been charged.
The October 7 attacks killed at least 1,139 people in Israel, mostly civilians; about 240 people were taken captive.
The conflict has caused heavy casualties in Gaza, with tens of thousands killed during the war that followed.
Human rights groups emphasize the need for justice but warn it must respect fair trial standards and human rights.

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Al Jazeera

Teen bedroom art installation shines spotlight on Ukraine’s stolen children

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

An art installation showing a typical Ukrainian teenager’s room highlights the issue of over 20,500 Ukrainian children taken to Russia during the war. European countries and allies are discussing ways to return these children and have imposed sanctions on those involved in their forced transfer.

Key Facts

The installation represents the empty rooms of Ukrainian children taken unlawfully to Russia.
Over 20,570 children have been identified as taken, but only about 2,133 have returned.
Many children have had their identities erased, been placed in military camps, or put up for forced adoption.
The installation was shown at the European Commission in Brussels during an international meeting.
Western countries, including the EU and UK, have announced new sanctions on individuals and groups involved.
The UK pledged £1.2 million to help trace and verify the identities of the stolen children.
Sanctions target centers that provide military training and indoctrination to Ukrainian children in occupied areas.
Officials hope more countries will join efforts to pressure Russia over this issue.

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Guardian World

BBC unmasks key people smuggler in network behind most small boat crossings

May 12, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The BBC investigation revealed the identity of a major people smuggler nicknamed "Kardo Ranya," who is believed to run a large smuggling network responsible for most illegal small boat crossings from France to the UK. This 28-year-old man from Iraqi Kurdistan has evaded arrest for years while charging migrants high fees to make dangerous journeys.

Key Facts

The smuggler operates under the alias "Kardo Ranya," hiding his real name from law enforcement.
His network controls many illegal crossings from northern France to the UK, mostly small boat trips.
The smuggling routes extend from Afghanistan through the Middle East and Europe to the UK.
The smuggler charges around €17,000 (£15,000) per migrant, offering a "safer" and VIP service.
Most migrants using this route are young men under 40 seeking asylum in the UK.
The journeys are illegal, dangerous, and have caused many deaths.
The smuggler advertises his services on social media, showing luxury images and customer testimonials.
The UK’s National Crime Agency targets smugglers from the Iraqi Kurdistan region, especially the town of Ranya.

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BBC Top Stories

Canberra teenager charged over allegedly planning ACT terror attack

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A 17-year-old in Canberra was arrested and charged with planning a terrorist attack after violent extremist material was found during a police search. He faces serious terrorism charges and remains in custody while authorities work to prevent youth from accessing extremist content.

Key Facts

A Canberra teenager, aged 17, was arrested on November 5 last year.
Police found violent extremist material during a search warrant.
He was charged with preparing for a terrorist act and sharing violent extremist content.
The planned attack was aimed at strangers and motivated by nationalist and racist extremist views.
He appeared in the ACT children’s court to face additional terrorism charges.
Preparing for a terrorist attack can lead to a life prison sentence.
Police and intelligence agencies stress the role of parents, schools, and tech companies in preventing youth exposure to extremist material.
Authorities focus on educating caregivers and limiting access to violent extremist content to protect the community.

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Guardian World

Zelenskyy’s ex-chief of staff accused in Ukraine corruption investigation

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ukrainian authorities have named the former chief of staff to President Zelenskyy as a suspect in a corruption investigation involving money laundering. This case is part of a larger probe into high-level corruption linked to government officials.

Key Facts

Ukraine’s anti-corruption agencies suspect the former head of the President’s Office in a money laundering criminal group.
About $10.5 million was allegedly laundered through a luxury housing project near Kyiv.
The suspect is widely identified as Andriy Yermak, who resigned last year.
The investigation started last November after a $100 million kickback scheme was uncovered at Ukraine’s atomic agency.
Other top officials linked to President Zelenskyy have also been charged in the broader probe.
Yermak was seen as Ukraine’s second most powerful figure and led peace talks with Russia.
The president’s office is under pressure due to this scandal during an ongoing war with Russia.
Officials say it is too early to comment fully as legal procedures are ongoing.

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Guardian World

Ex-Philippine leader Duterte's drug war enforcer escapes ICC arrest

May 12, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A Filipino senator, Ronald Dela Rosa, who led part of former President Duterte's anti-drug campaign, took refuge inside the Philippine Senate to avoid arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC). The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for him over alleged killings linked to the drug war, while the Senate protected him and said they would not allow his arrest on their premises.

Key Facts

Senator Ronald Dela Rosa faced an ICC arrest warrant for his role in police killings during Duterte's drug war.
He escaped attempts by agents to arrest him inside the Philippine Senate building.
The Senate placed Dela Rosa under protective custody and refused to hand him over to ICC authorities.
Dela Rosa’s lawyers asked the Supreme Court to block his arrest without a Philippine court warrant.
Former President Duterte is currently in ICC custody in The Hague since March 2025.
The ICC ruled that the Philippines’ withdrawal from the court does not apply to crimes committed while it was still a member.
Political conflict between the Duterte and Marcos families is intensifying, with ICC actions and impeachment moves seen as part of this feud.
The Senate, dominated by Duterte allies, says it will only enforce arrest warrants from Philippine courts.

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