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More than half of France under red alerts as heatwave intensifies

More than half of France under red alerts as heatwave intensifies

June 22, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

More than half of France is under a highest-level heat alert as a strong heatwave brings temperatures over 40°C (104°F) in many areas. The heatwave has caused deaths, school closures, and disruptions to train services, and is expected to last until the end of the week.

Key Facts

  • 49 out of 96 regions in France are under a red heat alert, the highest warning level.
  • Temperatures are expected to reach up to 43°C (109°F) in Bordeaux and over 40°C in parts of western France.
  • About 63 million people in France are affected by the heatwave.
  • Three elderly people died in the Gironde region partly due to the heat.
  • The national music festival banned alcohol to reduce heat risks during gatherings.
  • 845 schools were closed, and 1,800 students left school early due to the heat.
  • France’s national railway reduced train services and asked vulnerable people to avoid travel.
  • Other parts of Europe, including Madrid and Rome, are also facing record high temperatures.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Trump-backed populist barely wins Colombia presidential vote, sparking protests

Trump-backed populist barely wins Colombia presidential vote, sparking protests

June 22, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Abelardo de la Espriella, a lawyer supported by the U.S., narrowly won Colombia's presidential runoff election, moving the country toward right-wing policies. His win has caused protests in major cities, while supporters hope for increased security and stability.

Key Facts

  • Abelardo de la Espriella won the 2026 Colombian presidential runoff with 49.66% of the vote, narrowly beating left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda, who got 48.70%.
  • De la Espriella is backed by the U.S. and promises to fight drug traffickers and guerrilla groups with security measures including airstrikes.
  • The election triggered violent protests in cities like Cali and Bogota, with clashes between demonstrators and riot police.
  • Supporters of De la Espriella celebrated publicly, expressing hope for security, employment, and dignity.
  • De la Espriella pledged to govern democratically and respect all Colombians, including those who did not vote for him.
  • His win signals a shift to right-wing rule in Colombia, which has mostly been governed by right-wing parties historically.
  • The result may impact Colombia's fragile peace process established about ten years ago with former guerrilla groups.
  • U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the election outcome and expressed interest in working closely with the new Colombian government.
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CBS News
Murder arrest after woman fatally stabbed

Murder arrest after woman fatally stabbed

June 22, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A 72-year-old woman was found stabbed to death at a home in Swadlincote, Derbyshire. Police arrested a 52-year-old man on suspicion of murder and are asking the public for any video footage that might help the investigation.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at a house on The Crest in Linton, Swadlincote.
  • Police were called around 2:30 PM on Sunday.
  • The woman was declared dead at the scene.
  • A 52-year-old man is being held by police on suspicion of murder.
  • The woman’s family is receiving support from specialist officers.
  • Police are asking for CCTV, doorbell, or dash cam videos from midnight Saturday to 3 PM Sunday.
  • Detectives say this seems to be an isolated case but have increased police presence nearby.
  • The public is encouraged to share any information with the police.
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BBC Top Stories
Trump-backed de la Espriella wins razor-tight Colombian presidential election

Trump-backed de la Espriella wins razor-tight Colombian presidential election

June 22, 2026 • France24

Summary

Abelardo de la Espriella, a far-right lawyer supported by President Donald Trump, narrowly won Colombia’s presidential runoff with 49.7% of the vote against left-wing Ivan Cepeda. Cepeda plans to challenge the results, while de la Espriella promises strong security measures against drug groups and aims to improve relations with the United States.

Key Facts

  • Abelardo de la Espriella won Colombia’s presidential runoff with a 1% lead over Ivan Cepeda.
  • De la Espriella is a far-right candidate endorsed by President Donald Trump.
  • Ivan Cepeda, the left-wing opponent, plans to contest results from over 30,000 voting stations.
  • De la Espriella promises to fight drug-running guerrilla groups with an "iron fist."
  • The Trump administration expressed support and looks forward to working with Colombia’s new leader.
  • The election campaign saw violence, including guerrilla bomb attacks and the murder of a conservative candidate.
  • Protests erupted in Colombia after the election, with some clashes between demonstrators and police.
  • Supporters of de la Espriella celebrated in several cities, hoping he will bring security and economic improvement.
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France24
Keir Starmer expected to announce resignation timetable, paving way for Burnham premiership - UK politics live

Keir Starmer expected to announce resignation timetable, paving way for Burnham premiership - UK politics live

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Keir Starmer is expected to announce a plan to resign as the UK Prime Minister soon. Andy Burnham is likely to replace him, making Starmer the sixth UK prime minister to leave office in the past ten years.

Key Facts

  • Tomorrow marks the 10th anniversary of the UK referendum to leave the EU.
  • David Cameron resigned as Prime Minister after that referendum.
  • Since then, five more Tory prime ministers left office due to pressure from MPs or voters.
  • Keir Starmer has been Prime Minister for less than two years.
  • Starmer is likely to step down soon, possibly allowing Andy Burnham to become Prime Minister.
  • It is unclear if there will be a leadership contest or if Burnham will take over without opposition.
  • Starmer’s resignation announcement may come this morning.
  • Andy Burnham will take his seat in the House of Commons as the new MP for Makerfield today.
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Guardian World
Brexit: how it has hit your wallet at the supermarket and on holiday

Brexit: how it has hit your wallet at the supermarket and on holiday

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ten years after the UK voted to leave the EU, many everyday costs for UK residents have increased. Food prices are higher, traveling with pets to the EU is more expensive and complicated, and sending or receiving parcels between the UK and EU now involves customs paperwork and possible extra fees.

Key Facts

  • UK grocery prices rose about 12% due to trade barriers after Brexit, costing the average family around £400 from 2019 to 2023.
  • Low-income households have been hit harder because they spend more of their money on food.
  • A new UK-EU food export deal planned for 2027 aims to reduce paperwork and lower costs for some fresh food items.
  • Pet travel to the EU became more complex and costly since 2021, with new health certificates costing about £230 per trip.
  • EU pet passports are no longer valid for British residents; a new certificate must be obtained for each trip to the EU.
  • Sending parcels from Great Britain to EU countries now requires customs forms, and gifts or goods over certain values may face taxes and fees.
  • Receiving parcels from the EU can also involve paying VAT and customs duties depending on the value of the item.
  • These changes do not apply to Northern Ireland, which still follows different rules under the Northern Ireland Protocol.
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Guardian World
Monday briefing: What’s next for no-drama Starmer as his ‘political challenges’ pile up?

Monday briefing: What’s next for no-drama Starmer as his ‘political challenges’ pile up?

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Keir Starmer is expected to announce he will resign as prime minister following pressure from Labour members to let Andy Burnham lead the party. This comes after Burnham won a recent byelection, gaining strong support against Starmer’s leadership. Meanwhile, high-level talks between the US and Iran continue in Switzerland after a tense start.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer plans to step down as prime minister soon.
  • Labour MPs want Andy Burnham to become party leader.
  • Burnham won a strong victory in the Makerfield byelection.
  • Over 200 Labour MPs support Burnham’s leadership nomination.
  • Some senior ministers are urging Starmer to resign peacefully.
  • US-Iran talks are happening in Switzerland amid tensions.
  • Police in Edinburgh are investigating attacks seen as anti-Muslim hate crimes.
  • The UK is facing very high temperatures, raising health concerns.
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Guardian World
Zali Steggall expected to launch teal party after months of secret talks

Zali Steggall expected to launch teal party after months of secret talks

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Zali Steggall plans to launch a new political party this week, aiming to unite independent "teal" MPs in Australia. The move seeks to strengthen their influence, especially in the Senate, though some teal MPs are hesitant or against joining a party.

Key Facts

  • Zali Steggall, a member of parliament from Warringah, is leading talks to create a "teal party" for independent MPs.
  • The idea is to combine the strengths of being independent with the benefits of party organization.
  • New electoral laws by major parties have made it harder for independents to compete alone.
  • Some teal MPs like Allegra Spender, Sophie Scamps, and Nicolette Boele are open to the party, while others like Monique Ryan and Kate Chaney oppose it.
  • The party would likely focus on winning Senate seats, where crossbenchers can influence government decisions.
  • Steggall argues for a party that differs from major parties by letting local communities choose candidates.
  • The plan is to announce the party soon, but other MPs may join later before the 2028 federal election.
  • Some politicians, including independent Andrew Wilkie, support the idea but prefer to remain independent themselves.
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Guardian World
Iran hails ‘progress’ as first day of talks with US conclude after shaky start

Iran hails ‘progress’ as first day of talks with US conclude after shaky start

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Officials from the U.S. and Iran held talks in Switzerland aimed at reaching a final agreement within 60 days. The discussions focused on stopping fighting in Lebanon, maintaining peace in the Strait of Hormuz, and continuing technical talks throughout the week. Despite tensions and strong statements from President Donald Trump, both sides agreed on a roadmap and communication measures to prevent conflict escalation.

Key Facts

  • The first day of U.S.-Iran talks ended in Switzerland with reported progress despite tense moments.
  • Qatar and Pakistan acted as mediators and released a joint statement outlining a 60-day roadmap for a final deal.
  • The talks aim to address conflict in Lebanon, where Iran-backed Hezbollah is involved and Israel has conducted strikes.
  • The U.S. and Iran agreed to create a communication line to avoid incidents in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
  • They also agreed to form a “de-confliction cell” with Lebanon’s government to stop military operations there.
  • Iran reinstated a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to protest Israeli attacks on Lebanon.
  • President Trump responded strongly to Iran’s threats, warning of severe consequences if the strait was closed.
  • The U.S. negotiation team was led by Vice-President JD Vance, with participation from special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Middle East live: US, Iranian negotiators enter second day of talks after ‘encouraging’ start

Middle East live: US, Iranian negotiators enter second day of talks after ‘encouraging’ start

June 22, 2026 • France24

Summary

US and Iranian negotiators have started a second day of talks in Switzerland after agreeing on a plan to continue detailed discussions over the next 60 days. Both sides set up communication channels to avoid conflict in the Strait of Hormuz and established a group to prevent fighting in Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • US and Iran agreed on a roadmap to reach a final deal within 60 days.
  • A High Level Committee from both sides will oversee the talks.
  • Technical talks are continuing throughout the week at a Swiss resort.
  • A "de-confliction cell" involving the US, Iran, and Lebanon will work to stop military actions in Lebanon.
  • A communication line has been created to prevent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for shipping.
  • Iran promised to make efforts for safe passage of commercial boats through the Strait.
  • The talks were facilitated by mediators from Pakistan and Qatar.
  • Brent crude oil prices fell after the talks, easing concerns about global supply shortages.
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France24
Do esports students do more than play games?

Do esports students do more than play games?

June 22, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Students at Central Bedfordshire College are studying a new Level 3 BTEC course in esports, which combines playing video games with learning skills like psychology, nutrition, marketing, and video production. The course aims to prepare students for careers in esports and related fields, with many continuing their studies at university.

Key Facts

  • Central Bedfordshire College launched its first Level 3 BTEC in esports course.
  • The course includes playing games like Valorant, Fortnite, and Marvel Rivals.
  • Students learn not just gaming but also psychology, nutrition, fitness, communication, teamwork, marketing, and technical skills like video editing and programming.
  • Students organize esports events, handle broadcasting, commentary, and design team jerseys.
  • About 18,000 students in the UK study esports at Level 2 and Level 3 BTEC levels.
  • The UK has Europe’s largest community of student esports players.
  • British Esports works with over 200 schools and colleges, and more than 100 universities offer esports-related courses.
  • Experts say the esports industry’s growth is creating a need for formal education and training programs.
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BBC Top Stories
After Burnham’s reign, battle begins for Greater Manchester’s mayoral crown

After Burnham’s reign, battle begins for Greater Manchester’s mayoral crown

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Andy Burnham is stepping down as Greater Manchester’s mayor, leading to a new election on July 30 to find his successor. Labour aims to keep the position, likely choosing Bev Craig, while other parties like the Greens and Reform UK see a chance to win the role. The election will use a voting system where people pick a first and second choice candidate.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is leaving his role as Greater Manchester mayor as he pursues a national political career.
  • The mayoral election is set for July 30, 2024.
  • Labour’s likely candidate is Bev Craig, leader of Manchester city council since 2021.
  • Paul Dennett, interim mayor after Burnham’s departure, is not expected to run.
  • The Green Party is running Geraldine Coggins, its leader on Trafford council and a recent breakthrough candidate.
  • The election will use the supplementary vote system, allowing voters to choose a first and second preference.
  • Reform UK is also contesting and regards the election as a strong opportunity after mixed results elsewhere.
  • The mayor role is seen as influential, and Labour hopes to benefit from Burnham’s popularity to retain the seat.
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Guardian World
Top officer says anti-racism guidance has fuelled myth of two-tier policing

Top officer says anti-racism guidance has fuelled myth of two-tier policing

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A top British police officer, Sir Stephen Watson, said that police guidance aimed at fighting racism may have led people to wrongly believe in “two-tier policing,” where some groups are treated differently. He called for a review of this guidance after public unrest following a murder and said police must show they treat everyone fairly.

Key Facts

  • Sir Stephen Watson is the chief constable of Greater Manchester Police, England’s second largest force.
  • He said police language has “over-corrected” by adopting activist ideas in anti-racism rules.
  • Police forces do not practice “two-tier policing” or bias against white people, according to Watson.
  • Official anti-racism guidance from the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) advises officers to consider racial experiences but not to treat everyone the same.
  • This guidance is being reviewed after the murder of Henry Nowak, which sparked riots and claims of biased policing.
  • Watson instructed officers not to take the knee at protests, saying police must be impartial, not activists.
  • Greater Manchester Police improved crime recording and reduced certain crimes under Watson’s leadership.
  • Watson warned of possible widespread disorder in England due to social division and the impact of social media.
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Guardian World
‘Encouraging progress’ made as first round US-Iran talks end

‘Encouraging progress’ made as first round US-Iran talks end

June 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The first round of talks between the United States and Iran has finished with both countries agreeing on a plan to reach a final deal within 60 days. They agreed on some steps including allowing some oil exports from Iran, releasing some frozen money, and setting up a group to watch the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • The first round of US-Iran talks has ended.
  • Both sides agreed on a plan (roadmap) to reach a final deal in 60 days.
  • Iran will get waivers to export some oil despite sanctions.
  • Some frozen Iranian assets will be released.
  • A "de-confliction cell" will be created to monitor the ceasefire in Lebanon.
  • The talks aim to improve relations and resolve conflicts between the two countries.
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Al Jazeera
China's import of custard apples is sparking fears in Taiwan

China's import of custard apples is sparking fears in Taiwan

June 22, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Taiwan is concerned about China's plan to increase imports of the atemoya fruit, a specialty of Taiwan's Taitung county. Taiwan's government warns that China's actions may create dependence on exports and then harm Taiwanese farmers through sudden trade restrictions and taxes.

Key Facts

  • Atemoya is a hybrid custard apple fruit mainly grown in Taiwan's Taitung county.
  • China is a major importer of Taiwanese atemoyas and recently pledged to buy more.
  • Taiwan's agriculture ministry says China uses a "raise, trap, kill" method—encouraging growth then imposing trade barriers.
  • China previously banned Taiwanese pineapples in 2021, causing economic harm to farmers.
  • China suspended atemoya imports in 2021 over pest concerns, resumed partially in 2023, then added taxes in 2024.
  • China is increasing its own atemoya farming, which may threaten Taiwan's fruit industry.
  • Some Taiwanese officials attended a forum in China supporting fruit exports, which Taiwan's government officially banned.
  • Taiwan aims to support farmers by promoting diverse uses of atemoyas like frozen products, puree, and wines.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Colombia presidential candidate De la Espriella celebrates preliminary lead

Colombia presidential candidate De la Espriella celebrates preliminary lead

June 22, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella and his vice-presidential running mate, Jose Manuel Restrepo, are celebrating a small lead in the preliminary election results. They appeared together in an armored vehicle during the celebrations.

Key Facts

  • Abelardo de la Espriella is a candidate in the Colombian presidential election.
  • Jose Manuel Restrepo is his vice-presidential candidate.
  • They are currently showing a narrow lead based on preliminary election results.
  • The footage shows them celebrating while riding in an armored vehicle.
  • De la Espriella is described as an outsider in Colombian politics.
  • The results discussed are preliminary, meaning they are not final yet.
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Al Jazeera
Starmer seen as likely to announce an exit timetable as rival Burnham heads to UK Parliament

Starmer seen as likely to announce an exit timetable as rival Burnham heads to UK Parliament

June 22, 2026 • AP News

Summary

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce when he will resign, following pressure from his Labour Party after rival Andy Burnham won a seat in Parliament. Starmer’s leadership has faced criticism over economic growth, public services, and immigration, while Burnham is preparing to take his seat in Parliament.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer may soon set a timetable to resign as U.K. Prime Minister.
  • Andy Burnham, a Labour rival and former mayor of Greater Manchester, won a special parliamentary election.
  • Burnham aims to challenge Starmer for the Labour Party leadership and the prime ministership.
  • Starmer’s leadership has been criticized for slow economic growth, poor public services, and handling of immigration.
  • Some Labour lawmakers support Burnham, while others believe Starmer has been treated unfairly.
  • U.S. President Donald Trump commented on Starmer’s expected resignation, citing immigration and energy policies.
  • Starmer has received praise for his international role, including supporting Ukraine and addressing Iran-related issues.
  • There could be a leadership contest if Starmer resigns; Wes Streeting has said he might run.
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AP News
Trump-endorsed de la Espriella holds slim lead in Colombia’s election as his rival challenges vote

Trump-endorsed de la Espriella holds slim lead in Colombia’s election as his rival challenges vote

June 22, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Abelardo de la Espriella, a conservative candidate endorsed by President Donald Trump, holds a very narrow lead in Colombia’s presidential runoff election against progressive lawmaker Iván Cepeda. Cepeda, aligned with outgoing President Gustavo Petro, has challenged the election results, which could lead to disputes in the final outcome.

Key Facts

  • Abelardo de la Espriella is a conservative political outsider and lawyer endorsed by President Donald Trump.
  • Iván Cepeda is a progressive lawmaker and ally of Colombia’s current President Gustavo Petro.
  • With nearly all votes counted, de la Espriella leads with 49.7%, while Cepeda has 48.7%.
  • No official winner has been declared by Colombian election authorities yet.
  • De la Espriella’s victory would reverse Petro’s policies, including a controversial peace plan with illegal armed groups.
  • Cepeda supports continuing Petro’s social reforms and peace negotiations.
  • The election reflects deep political division and fears of renewed internal conflict in Colombia.
  • Both candidates have made statements indicating a tense political environment following the vote.
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AP News
Americans taking up the art of Ikebana, Japanese flower arrangement

Americans taking up the art of Ikebana, Japanese flower arrangement

June 22, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, is becoming more popular in the United States. This traditional hobby, which focuses on appreciating nature through carefully arranged flowers, is attracting new practitioners.

Key Facts

  • Ikebana is a Japanese flower arranging art that has been practiced for hundreds of years.
  • The practice highlights the beauty of nature and emphasizes simplicity and balance.
  • More people in the U.S. are learning and practicing Ikebana as a new hobby.
  • The renewed interest connects people to Japanese culture and traditions.
  • Ikebana involves arranging flowers thoughtfully, not just placing them in a vase.
  • The art form can be both creative and meditative for those who practice it.
  • Local classes and online resources often help beginners get started with Ikebana.
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CBS News
From mobile jungles to shadow art: how Dutch people try to beat the heat

From mobile jungles to shadow art: how Dutch people try to beat the heat

June 22, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The Netherlands is experiencing a heatwave, and experts are advising people in Amsterdam to hang curtains outside their windows to block sunlight and keep homes cooler. The government has started a heatwave plan to protect vulnerable people, and researchers are testing creative ways like fake trees and shadow art to cool streets and pavements.

Key Facts

  • Dutch houses have large windows designed to let in winter sun, which causes heat problems in summer.
  • Each year, around 110 people in Amsterdam die due to heat, with numbers expected to rise without action.
  • Public health expert Eline Coolen recommends hanging curtains or sheets outside windows to block sunlight.
  • Mechanical engineering professor Bert Blocken says keeping buildings cool without air conditioning is best by blocking sun rays.
  • The Dutch national heatwave plan suggests actions in three areas: changing behavior, improving housing, and designing cities better.
  • Research shows awareness campaigns about heatwaves help reduce deaths.
  • Green spaces, green roofs, and trees are important to reduce urban heat.
  • Innovative ideas like mobile “jungle blocks” and shadow art are being tested to provide shade and cool outdoor areas.
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Guardian World
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