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Farage trying to block ‘Britcoin’ plans that could be costly for billionaire donor

Farage trying to block ‘Britcoin’ plans that could be costly for billionaire donor

June 18, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Nigel Farage is trying to stop the Bank of England from creating a government-backed digital currency called "Britcoin." This digital money plan could hurt Christopher Harborne, a billionaire who funds Farage’s party and has strong ties to a cryptocurrency company called Tether. Farage says he opposes Britcoin because it might require a digital ID system and threatens personal freedom.

Key Facts

  • Nigel Farage leads Reform UK and opposes the Bank of England’s plan for a digital pound, nicknamed "Britcoin."
  • Christopher Harborne, a billionaire donor to Farage’s party, could lose money if Britcoin reduces demand for stablecoins like Tether.
  • Harborne owns about 12% of Tether, a company that issues digital coins whose value is tied to real currencies.
  • Tether’s profits are very high, reportedly more than Netflix and Coca-Cola, possibly earning Harborne around £1 billion a year.
  • Farage expressed strong opposition, even saying he would go to prison to stop the digital currency if it involves digital ID systems.
  • The Bank of England has confirmed it is continuing plans for a central bank digital currency but has not said it will use digital ID.
  • Farage and Reform UK MP Richard Tice met with the Bank’s governor, Andrew Bailey, to discuss the digital currency plans.
  • Representatives for Harborne denied allegations in the article, calling them false and without basis.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
Tropical Storm Arthur Tracker As It Makes Landfall in Texas, Swamps Cars

Tropical Storm Arthur Tracker As It Makes Landfall in Texas, Swamps Cars

June 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Tropical Storm Arthur formed in the Gulf of Mexico and made landfall on the Texas coast before weakening into a post-tropical cyclone. The storm brought heavy rain and flooding from Texas to parts of the southeastern U.S., with flood watches still active in several states.

Key Facts

  • Arthur was the first named storm of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season.
  • It briefly became a tropical storm on Wednesday before being downgraded by the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
  • The storm made landfall along the Texas coast, causing significant flooding and flash flood warnings near Houston.
  • Rainfall totals are expected to range from 5 to 10 inches, with some areas possibly getting up to 20 inches.
  • The heavy rain and flood risk extend from the Texas coast through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle.
  • Interstate 10 near Houston was temporarily closed due to flooding but reopened by the afternoon.
  • Flood watches remain in effect across several southeastern states as the storm’s remnants move eastward.
  • The Atlantic hurricane season 2026 officially began in June, and Arthur is the first named storm in the official list for the season.
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Newsweek
Irish parliament votes to remove three-day abortion wait

Irish parliament votes to remove three-day abortion wait

June 18, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Ireland’s parliament has voted to remove the mandatory three-day waiting period for abortion during early pregnancy. The bill passed with 86 votes in favor and 70 against and will now go to a parliamentary committee before becoming law.

Key Facts

  • The three-day wait rule applied to abortions up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
  • The waiting period was introduced before the 2018 referendum that legalized abortion in Ireland.
  • Supporters say the wait was an unnecessary barrier for women seeking abortions.
  • Opponents argue the wait provided important time for reflection and was supported by voters in the referendum.
  • The bill was sponsored by Sinn Féin and supported by some members of the current ruling coalition.
  • Official figures show about 10,400 women did not return for a second abortion consultation after the waiting period between 2019 and 2024.
  • Some politicians fear changing the rule could upset voters who expected safeguards with abortion legalization.
  • The legislation is expected to become law later this or next year after committee review.
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Guardian World
Lisa Nandy 'not satisfied' with Channel 4 response on Married at First Sight UK

Lisa Nandy 'not satisfied' with Channel 4 response on Married at First Sight UK

June 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK culture secretary, Lisa Nandy, said she is not happy with Channel 4's response to rape and sexual assault claims made by women on the reality show Married at First Sight UK. The broadcaster has paused airing the show and started an external review of how it cares for participants, but the government wants further discussions.

Key Facts

  • Two women from Married at First Sight UK have alleged rape during filming; a third accused a man of a non-consensual sex act.
  • The men involved deny all the allegations.
  • Channel 4 removed all episodes of the show from its streaming service and launched an outside review of participant welfare.
  • Lisa Nandy told Parliament that the government is not satisfied with Channel 4’s response and will talk with the broadcaster more.
  • Channel 4 plans only to share a summary of the review, not the full details.
  • The show has attracted over three million viewers and is one of Channel 4’s most popular programs.
  • Police have asked anyone affected to come forward, and sponsors like Tui have ended support for the show.
  • The production company CPL says its care system is industry-leading and that it acted properly.
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BBC Top Stories
Church of England apologises for role in forced adoptions

Church of England apologises for role in forced adoptions

June 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The Church of England has issued a formal apology for its role in forcing unmarried mothers to give up their babies for adoption between 1949 and 1976. The Church acknowledged the pain and trauma experienced by the mothers and children and expressed deep regret for the harm caused.

Key Facts

  • The Church of England helped run about 100 mother and baby homes where unmarried pregnant women were sent to give birth.
  • These homes often separated mothers and babies without consent, causing significant suffering.
  • The Church apologized, saying the shame is theirs and recognizing the poor conditions and unfair treatment in the homes.
  • Research by the Church included reviewing archives and speaking with affected women and adoptees.
  • Some mothers were unfairly described in Church documents as “dim” or “inadequate.”
  • The government plans to make a full apology on behalf of the state for its role in forced adoptions.
  • Similar apologies have been made by the Catholic Church and the governments of Scotland and Wales.
  • Support services are now being offered by the Church to those affected.
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BBC Top Stories Guardian World
Driver hailed for saving tourists from rip current at Louisiana beach: ‘I just locked in’

Driver hailed for saving tourists from rip current at Louisiana beach: ‘I just locked in’

June 18, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A shuttle driver named Jordan Matthew saved three tourists caught in a dangerous rip current at Grand Isle beach in Louisiana. Without formal training, he rescued them one by one and brought them safely to shore. State officials praised his quick actions as heroic.

Key Facts

  • Jordan Matthew is a shuttle driver who dropped off tourists at Grand Isle beach in southern Louisiana.
  • Three members of the tourist group got caught in a strong rip current, including a young boy and two women.
  • Matthew saw them struggling underwater and immediately jumped in to rescue them without lifeguard training.
  • He first helped the boy and one woman to shallower water, then retrieved the other woman from farther out and carried her back to shore.
  • Louisiana’s department of wildlife and fisheries thanked Matthew for his bravery and quick thinking in a social media post.
  • The rescued tourists were physically fine but emotionally shaken and later invited Matthew to dinner to thank him.
  • Rip currents are fast-moving channels of water pulling swimmers away from shore and cause about 100 deaths annually in the US.
  • Experts advise swimming parallel to the shore to escape a rip current instead of trying to swim directly back to land.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Barack Obama Presidential Center: Full List of Opening Ceremony Performers

Barack Obama Presidential Center: Full List of Opening Ceremony Performers

June 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The Barack Obama Presidential Center in Chicago will open with a grand ceremony featuring many famous performers and speeches by Barack and Michelle Obama. The center is a new museum and community space that includes a digital presidential library and is expected to attract up to 1 million visitors each year.

Key Facts

  • The Obama Presidential Center officially opens on Juneteenth in Chicago’s South Side.
  • The opening ceremony will have well-known performers like Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, and Jennifer Hudson.
  • Former presidents Joe Biden, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and their spouses will attend the ceremony.
  • The center includes a museum, library branch, community spaces, and the Obama Foundation headquarters.
  • It is the first presidential library to use a fully digital model for preserving documents.
  • Construction started in 2021 and cost about $850 million, funded by private donations.
  • The center is expected to draw around 1 million visitors every year to its 20-acre campus.
  • There are currently 16 official U.S. presidential libraries, all managed by the National Archives.
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Newsweek
‘Love Island’ Season 13 Episode 18 – Release Date, How to Watch

‘Love Island’ Season 13 Episode 18 – Release Date, How to Watch

June 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The 18th episode of "Love Island" Season 13 will be released on June 19, 2026, and will stream on Hulu starting at midnight Pacific Time. In this episode, there is a surprise recoupling that causes tension among the participants, especially between Aidan and Yas, and new relationship dynamics develop involving Simba, Mica, and Angelista.

Key Facts

  • "Love Island" Season 13 Episode 18 premieres on June 19, 2026, on Hulu.
  • Episodes are available at 12 a.m. Pacific Time (3 a.m. Eastern Time).
  • A Hulu subscription, starting at $11.99 per month, is needed to watch the show.
  • New "Love Island" episodes stream daily throughout the summer except on Tuesdays.
  • Episode 18 runs between 60 to 90 minutes.
  • The episode features a surprise recoupling that impacts the relationships among the island contestants.
  • Aidan frequently calls Yas by the wrong name, which frustrates her.
  • Simba grows closer to Mica, while Angelista feels uneasy despite acting calm.
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Newsweek
Climate-change driven heatwave brings uncertainty to French farmers

Climate-change driven heatwave brings uncertainty to French farmers

June 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

A heatwave in France caused by climate change is raising concerns for farmers, as temperatures may reach 40 degrees Celsius. Farmers must continue working despite the challenging and hot conditions.

Key Facts

  • France is experiencing a heatwave linked to climate change.
  • Temperatures are expected to hit up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Farmers face difficulties but have to keep working in the hot weather.
  • The heatwave creates uncertainty about farming conditions and crop production.
  • The article highlights the impact of extreme weather on agriculture in Europe.
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France24
Taiwan hopes US arms sale package can be approved soon, president says

Taiwan hopes US arms sale package can be approved soon, president says

June 18, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Taiwan’s president said he hopes the United States will approve a $14 billion arms sale soon to help Taiwan defend itself against China. He also said Taiwan does not want to join China and that only the Taiwanese people can decide their future.

Key Facts

  • Taiwan seeks a $14 billion arms sale from the United States to strengthen its defense.
  • Taiwan’s president stated that the island rejects unification with China.
  • The U.S. has delayed the arms sale partly to save weapons for its conflict with Iran.
  • Taiwan relies on U.S. support to deter potential military threats from China.
  • China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has increased military and diplomatic pressure.
  • Taiwan’s parliament approved part of a $40 billion defense budget, cutting funding for drones and some local weapons.
  • Taiwan’s defense ministry proposed a new $6.64 billion package for surveillance and small drones.
  • Taiwan calls for China to stop threatening the region with military force.
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Al Jazeera
Polls open in historic byelection in Makerfield that could determine Keir Starmer’s future – UK politics live

Polls open in historic byelection in Makerfield that could determine Keir Starmer’s future – UK politics live

June 18, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Voting has started in a byelection in Makerfield, near Wigan, England, which could impact the future of Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party. Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester and Labour candidate, is competing against Robert Kenyon from Reform UK, with Burnham hoping to return to parliament and possibly become prime minister.

Key Facts

  • The byelection is happening because Labour MP Josh Simons resigned to allow Andy Burnham to run.
  • Makerfield has been a safe seat for Labour since 1983, but Reform UK is challenging strongly this time.
  • Andy Burnham wants voters to "change politics" and aims to take his fight to the highest political levels.
  • Pollsters say the contest is close, despite Reform UK's candidate facing criticism over past social media posts.
  • Leader Keir Starmer said he might offer Burnham a high government job if he wins, but Burnham's team declined the offer.
  • Burnham hopes to avoid a leadership fight by having Starmer step aside, but Starmer has firmly rejected this.
  • Around 3,000 Labour activists and MPs are campaigning in Makerfield, which could overwhelm voters.
  • The byelection result is seen as very important for the Labour government and for Starmer's leadership.
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Guardian World
Starmer on the line as UK holds "most important local election in decades"

Starmer on the line as UK holds "most important local election in decades"

June 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

The United Kingdom is holding an important local election in the Makerfield district on June 18, 2026. Although Prime Minister Keir Starmer is not a candidate, the outcome is seen as a test of his leadership, with Andy Burnham, the Labour mayor of Greater Manchester, as a leading contender to win the seat.

Key Facts

  • The local election is taking place in Makerfield, northwest England.
  • Voters are choosing a new member of parliament (lawmaker) for this district.
  • Andy Burnham, Labour mayor of Greater Manchester, is the main favorite to win.
  • The election's result is viewed as significant for Prime Minister Keir Starmer's future.
  • This election is described as one of the most important local votes in decades in the UK.
  • The election will take place on June 18, 2026.
  • Keir Starmer leads the Labour Party, which is competing to hold or gain seats.
  • Although not on the ballot himself, Starmer’s leadership is indirectly being tested by the vote.
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France24
Moscow hit by largest Ukrainian attack since start of Russia's full-scale war

Moscow hit by largest Ukrainian attack since start of Russia's full-scale war

June 18, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Moscow experienced the largest attack by Ukraine since the full-scale war began, with nearly 200 drones striking targets around the city and causing large fires and damage. Ukraine said this attack was a response to recent Russian strikes on Kyiv, while Russia reported intercepting many drones and missiles across the country.

Key Facts

  • About 200 Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow, targeting an oil refinery and causing thick smoke and fires.
  • Seventeen people were injured in the Moscow region during this attack.
  • Ukraine also used four cruise missiles in the operation.
  • Russia claimed it destroyed nearly 1,000 drones and four Ukrainian cruise missiles nationwide within 24 hours.
  • A previous Russian attack set a major Kyiv religious site on fire, prompting Ukraine's large drone strike in response.
  • Moscow’s main airports temporarily closed, and over 500 flights were canceled or delayed.
  • Drone attacks on Moscow have increased since spring 2023 as Ukraine gained long-range drone abilities.
  • Russia launched over 200 drones and multiple ballistic missiles at Ukraine overnight after the Moscow attack.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
US tells NATO it will review its force presence in Europe

US tells NATO it will review its force presence in Europe

June 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

The US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told NATO that the Pentagon will review its military presence in Europe within six months. The decision will depend on how quickly NATO’s European members increase their own defense efforts.

Key Facts

  • The US plans to review its military forces stationed in Europe.
  • The review will take place over the next six months.
  • The review’s outcome depends on European NATO countries taking more responsibility for their security.
  • This announcement follows a successful G7 summit.
  • President Donald Trump supports backing Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
  • US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the announcement in Brussels.
  • The focus is on Europe’s role within NATO and defense strategies.
  • The news relates to NATO and US-Europe defense cooperation.
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France24
Lawyer of Uganda opposition figure Besigye charged with treason-related offence

Lawyer of Uganda opposition figure Besigye charged with treason-related offence

June 18, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Erias Lukwago, a lawyer and former mayor in Uganda, was arrested and charged with a crime related to treason. Lukwago represents Kizza Besigye, an opposition leader currently on trial for treason. His arrest has caused concern and criticism because of harsh actions by Uganda’s military chief, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

Key Facts

  • Erias Lukwago was arrested at his home in Kampala and charged with failing to report treason.
  • He denies the charges and is in prison awaiting his next court hearing.
  • Lukwago is the lawyer for Kizza Besigye, an opposition politician also charged with treason.
  • Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief and son of the president, publicly announced Lukwago’s arrest and shared photos of him blindfolded.
  • Opposition figures, including Bobi Wine, say Lukwago’s arrest is politically motivated and called for resistance.
  • Lukwago’s family claims he was abducted by security forces and asked the court to find and release him.
  • Kainerugaba has a record of posting about abducting and mistreating opposition members and later deleting some posts.
  • Besigye is a longtime opponent of Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni and has been detained many times during past election campaigns.
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BBC World
Mixed reactions over US-Iran deal in Lebanon

Mixed reactions over US-Iran deal in Lebanon

June 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

A recent deal between the United States and Iran has brought some hope to Lebanon, but reactions there are mixed. Lebanon was not included in a $300 million reconstruction fund despite damage in the south, and Israeli airstrikes continue in the region.

Key Facts

  • The US and Iran reached a new deal in 2026.
  • Lebanon may benefit from the deal but was excluded from a $300 million reconstruction fund.
  • The south of Lebanon has been heavily damaged.
  • Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have not stopped.
  • The deal has led to varied reactions in Lebanon, with some hope but ongoing conflict.
  • The report was made from Beirut by France 24 journalist Renée Davis.
  • Israeli strikes are expected to continue until the US-Iran agreement’s consequences are clearer.
  • The situation involves multiple countries: Lebanon, Iran, Israel, and the USA.
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France24
Suspected gang leader shot dead in flower bouquet ambush at airport

Suspected gang leader shot dead in flower bouquet ambush at airport

June 18, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

A suspected gang leader in Ecuador was killed in an ambush at the Guayaquil airport. Two teenagers were arrested for the shooting, which happened amid a rise in gang violence and a recent state of emergency declared by Ecuador’s president.

Key Facts

  • The victim, Carlos Alberto Suástegui Villanueva, was identified as the leader of the Los Águilas gang.
  • The shooting occurred outside the arrivals terminal at José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil.
  • Two young men waited with stuffed toys and flowers before one pulled a gun hidden behind a teddy bear and shot the victim at close range.
  • Ecuador’s president declared a state of emergency in 10 provinces, including Guayas, to fight increasing gang violence.
  • Los Águilas gang is linked to drug trafficking and extortion and was labeled a terrorist organization by President Daniel Noboa in 2024.
  • Ecuador has become a key drug trafficking corridor between Colombia and Peru, major coca producers, and global cocaine markets.
  • The attack at the airport caused panic among passengers, and one bystander was injured.
  • Authorities closed the arrivals hall for over two hours to investigate the crime scene.
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BBC World
Hegseth tells NATO US will review force presence in Europe

Hegseth tells NATO US will review force presence in Europe

June 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the Pentagon will review its military presence in Europe within six months. The review aims to push NATO countries to take more responsibility for their own defense and ensure clear US access for forces, following tensions over European restrictions during the Iran war.

Key Facts

  • The US will conduct a full review of its military forces stationed in Europe over the next six months.
  • The review aims to encourage NATO countries to lead their own defense and increase spending.
  • Some European allies limited US military movements during the Iran conflict, which the US described as risky and unacceptable.
  • The US plans to reduce its financial contributions to NATO’s running costs if allies do not meet agreed defense spending targets.
  • NATO allies increased their defense budgets by about 20% in 2025, adding more than $90 billion.
  • The US is shifting focus to China, expecting Europe to handle its own security more independently.
  • Reports say the US is reducing NATO-dedicated aircraft, bombers, drones, and a missile-launching submarine.
  • NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the US reductions are immediate but the US will support allies if Europe faces a threat.
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France24
US will review its military presence in Europe, Hegseth tells NATO

US will review its military presence in Europe, Hegseth tells NATO

June 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the Pentagon will review its military presence in Europe within six months. This review aims to ensure Europe takes primary responsibility for its own defense, after some European countries limited US military access during the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

Key Facts

  • The US will conduct a full review of its military forces stationed in Europe over the next six months.
  • The review is intended to shift more defense responsibility to European NATO members.
  • Some European countries restricted US military access to bases during the US-Israeli war on Iran.
  • Hegseth called these restrictions “shameful” and said they put American troops at risk.
  • NATO itself is not directly involved in the Iran conflict but focuses on defending member countries.
  • The US will link its payment of NATO's operating costs (about $790 million in 2026) to whether allies meet defense spending targets.
  • Many NATO members have increased their defense budgets, with a nearly 20% rise in Europe and Canada’s spending in 2025 compared to 2024.
  • The US wants Europe to reach a goal of spending 5% of their GDP on defense-related costs.
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France24
UK mosques advised to run lockdown drills amid fears of anti-Muslim attacks

UK mosques advised to run lockdown drills amid fears of anti-Muslim attacks

June 18, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has issued new safety guidelines for mosques to prepare for possible attacks. These include lockdown drills, better security cameras, and stronger connections with local police, due to increased threats of vandalism and hate crimes against Muslim communities.

Key Facts

  • Mosques are advised to run lockdown drills and improve emergency plans.
  • The guidance suggests mosques strengthen ties with local police and community members.
  • Anti-Muslim hate crimes in England and Wales rose from 2,690 to 3,199 in the year to March 2025.
  • Threats include graffiti, vandalism, arson attempts, abuse, suspicious people, and bomb threats.
  • The framework suggests appointing safety officers and checking for security weaknesses like blind spots in CCTV.
  • The MCB warns of potential violence during busy prayer times and after recent racist riots in parts of the UK.
  • Muslim communities report high anxiety about attacks on mosques and homes.
  • The guidance plans security improvements over three years in phases.
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Guardian World
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