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The Makerfield constituency in north-west England is holding an important by-election on June 18 to choose a new Member of Parliament. Labour's candidate, Andy Burnham, aims to enter the Labour leadership to become prime minister if elected, while his main opponent is Robert Kenyon from Reform UK. The community shows mixed feelings about the state of the UK, with some parts doing well economically and others facing serious local problems like illegal waste dumps.
Key Facts
Makerfield is a constituency in north-west England with former mining towns.
A by-election on June 18 will decide a new Member of Parliament.
Andy Burnham, Labour's candidate and Mayor of Greater Manchester, may run to be Labour leader and prime minister.
Robert Kenyon, representing Reform UK, is Burnham’s main rival.
Some areas of Makerfield, like Ashton, have economic growth and business success.
Other areas, such as Bickershaw, suffer from problems like illegal waste dumps and rat infestations.
The local council is spending £6.6 million on regenerating Ashton.
Residents express frustration about "broken Britain," but attitudes vary across the constituency.
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An inquiry in New South Wales, Australia, has started looking into unsolved murders and disappearances from decades ago, including the case of British toddler Cheryl Grimmer who went missing in 1970. Families of the missing people spoke about how police failures have left them without answers for many years.
Key Facts
Cheryl Grimmer, a 3-year-old British toddler, disappeared from a beach in Wollongong, Australia, in January 1970.
Despite searches, no leads were found at the time, and a suspect’s trial in 2017 ended without conviction.
Families attending the inquiry said police did not investigate fully or properly in the early years.
Kay Docherty, a 15-year-old girl missing since 1979 near Wollongong, is another case being reviewed.
Some disappearances may be linked to Ivan Milat, a serial killer who killed at least seven backpackers between 1989 and 1992.
Keren Rowland, missing in 1971 and possibly Milat’s first victim, was 20 years old and pregnant.
Experts and family members criticized past police work and said poor leadership hindered investigations.
The inquiry will continue with more hearings in the coming months.
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Four days of heavy rain and landslides caused by Cyclone Senyar in November killed about 58 of the rare Tapanuli orangutans in Sumatra, representing around 7% of the remaining population. This event highlights the threat extreme weather and climate change pose to this species, which is critically endangered and was discovered only in 2017.
Key Facts
The Tapanuli orangutan is the rarest great ape, with fewer than 800 individuals left.
Cyclone Senyar hit Sumatra in late November, causing widespread damage and over 1,000 human deaths.
The storm killed an estimated 58 Tapanuli orangutans, about 7% of their population.
This number is higher than earlier estimates and does not include indirect impacts like food shortage.
The orangutans live in the Batang Toru forest area, where the Indonesian government has paused major developments.
Researchers warn that losing more than 1% of the population each year risks extinction.
Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme rain events in the region.
Saving the species requires ongoing global support, better protection plans, and coordinated action.
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Supporters of Hezbollah gathered in Beirut’s Dahiyeh neighborhood to show their backing for Iran’s help in opposing Israel. They also rejected attempts to separate Lebanon’s conflict from Iran’s involvement.
Key Facts
The gathering took place in the Dahiyeh area of Beirut, Lebanon.
The crowd consisted of people supporting Hezbollah.
They expressed support for Iran’s role against Israel.
The rally emphasized that Lebanon’s conflict is connected to Iran’s involvement.
The event was reported by Al Jazeera journalist Heidi Pett.
The crowd showed defiance, meaning they strongly rejected opposing views.
The rally focused on political and regional tensions involving Lebanon, Iran, and Israel.
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Police in Belfast used water cannons to stop far-right protesters during a second night of violence after a Sudanese refugee stabbed a man. The victim's family asked for calm and spoke out against attacks on immigrants. The suspect appeared in court and was charged with attempted murder.
Key Facts
The unrest followed a knife attack involving a Sudanese refugee named Hadi Alodid.
Police used water cannon and faced rocks and bottles thrown by protesters.
The victim, Stephen Ogilvie, lost an eye and was seriously hurt but is now stable.
The suspect was charged with attempted murder and remains in custody.
The violence included burning homes and cars, forcing at least 27 people, mostly foreign nationals, to become homeless.
Local leaders and the victim’s family condemned the anti-immigrant attacks and urged peaceful protest.
The UK Prime Minister called the violence unacceptable and urged calm.
Additional police officers were sent to Belfast to manage tensions during protests.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping visited North Korea and promised closer cooperation with leader Kim Jong Un. Experts say Xi’s real goal was to watch how confident North Korea has become in confronting the U.S. and to manage China’s role in preventing possible conflict.
Key Facts
Xi Jinping completed a two-day visit to North Korea to strengthen ties with Kim Jong Un.
Experts note North Korea has a new, bold attitude toward the U.S. and wants to confront it rather than normalize relations.
Kim Jong Un has shifted North Korea’s main strategy from engagement to confrontation with the U.S. since 2023.
China is concerned about possible conflict between North Korea and the U.S. because it could involve China.
China and North Korea have a complicated history, including tension after the execution of Kim’s uncle, who was close to China.
Despite difficulties, the two countries accept the need to work together as neighbors.
The summit included talks on trade, tourism, investment, and education exchanges.
Military cooperation between China and North Korea, such as arms sales or joint exercises, could reveal deeper ties.
Xi’s visit also aimed to balance growing Russian influence in North Korea, which supports Russia’s war in Ukraine with troops and money in exchange for aid.
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed problems with visas for players and officials entering the United States for the World Cup. He said FIFA cannot overrule government decisions about entry and is focused on supporting the tournament while respecting the law. Infantino also mentioned the US granted visas to the Iranian team despite political tensions and confirmed FIFA is trying to find solutions quietly.
Key Facts
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said FIFA cannot force governments to approve visas for the World Cup.
Somalia referee Omar Artan, with a valid visa, was denied entry to the US and removed from the tournament roster.
President Donald Trump stated his administration aims to allow the “right people” into the country for the event.
Iran’s team received visas ten days before their first US match and changed their training base to Mexico.
Infantino emphasized FIFA tries to handle visa issues calmly and work behind the scenes to find solutions.
FIFA has no regrets about choosing the US as one of the three World Cup hosts despite entry challenges.
The 2026 World Cup is the first to have a host nation receiving a country it is in conflict with (US and Iran).
Infantino highlighted FIFA’s role as a sports organization respecting government authority and focusing on the tournament’s success.
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Protests broke out in Belfast after a stabbing attack left a man seriously injured. Police used water cannons to control crowds who threw objects and set fires, amid widespread anti-immigrant tensions in the area.
Key Facts
A 30-year-old man from Sudan, Hadi Alodid, was charged with attempted murder after stabbing a man and blinding him in one eye.
The attack led to violence, with protesters setting fires to homes believed to house immigrants and attacking police with bricks and bottles.
Police found Alodid at the crime scene armed with a kitchen knife; he made threatening statements at the hospital after the attack.
Masked protesters shouted anti-immigrant slogans and caused damage to buses and property.
Firefighters rescued several people from burning homes; over 24 people were left homeless.
Police increased their presence with 200 extra officers and called for support from other forces.
Transport services in Belfast reduced operations due to expected protests.
The victim’s family condemned the unrest and called for peaceful protest only.
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Several athletes, officials, and fans have been denied US visas or entry ahead of the FIFA World Cup hosted in the United States, causing criticism of US immigration policies. Notably, Somali referee Omar Artan was refused entry despite having a valid visa, and parts of the Iranian support team were also denied visas due to geopolitical tensions.
Key Facts
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the US at Miami airport and sent back to Istanbul, despite holding a valid visa.
The US Department of Homeland Security said Artan was inadmissible due to "vetting concerns."
Fans from countries like Morocco and Scotland reported visa denials or revoked travel documents just before traveling.
Iran’s football players all received visas, but some key members of their support staff were denied.
Due to visa issues, Iran’s team will stay in Tijuana, Mexico, for most of the tournament instead of Arizona in the US.
Iran’s team will only enter the US on match days, raising concerns about travel logistics.
The US government’s immigration policies have been criticized by human rights organizations during this event.
US President Donald Trump’s administration is linked to tougher immigration stances affecting visa approvals.
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Nigerian migrants in South Africa are leaving the country after a group set a deadline of June 30 for illegal residents to leave. Nigeria’s diplomatic mission says many migrants who are going back do not feel safe to live or work in South Africa anymore.
Key Facts
A campaign group in South Africa told illegal residents to leave by June 30.
Many Nigerian migrants are fleeing South Africa due to fear for their safety.
Nigeria’s diplomatic mission in South Africa reported that returning migrants feel unsafe.
The situation is linked to protests with xenophobic (anti-foreigner) attacks.
Migrants are concerned about their ability to live and work safely in South Africa.
The deadline has caused an increase in migrant departures from the country.
South Africa is facing tensions related to foreigners living there illegally.
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Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed 12 people on June 11, 2026, amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on Lebanese citizens to oppose Hezbollah and support peace with Israel, while fighting and military activity continue despite ceasefires.
Key Facts
Lebanon’s health ministry reported 12 deaths from Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon.
Israeli strikes hit more than 30 locations, including towns near the border and the coastal city of Sidon.
Two Lebanese municipal workers detained by Israeli forces were later released.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu urged Lebanese people to join Israel against Hezbollah.
Hezbollah began attacks against Israel on March 2, supporting its ally Iran.
Ceasefires announced in April and recently have not been fully observed by either side.
A man from Lyon is going on trial for allegedly sedating and raping his partner after communicating online with Dominique Pelicot, a convicted sex offender serving 20 years for drugging and raping his wife. The investigation looks into whether the man learned methods from Pelicot to abuse his partner, who experienced severe health problems over three years.
Key Facts
Dominique Pelicot was convicted of drugging and raping his wife and allowing others to assault her over nearly ten years.
Pelicot is serving a 20-year prison sentence after France’s largest rape trial in 2024.
The Lyon man worked as an international bodyguard for important clients worldwide.
Police found messages between the bodyguard and Pelicot during the investigation starting in 2020.
The bodyguard was arrested in 2023 and faces charges of sedating, raping, and filming his partner without her consent.
The partner reported health problems like fatigue, dizziness, heart issues, and blackouts over three years.
The bodyguard also admitted to separate charges involving possession and sharing of illegal child abuse images.
The court will examine the extent of the bodyguard’s relationship with Pelicot and whether he copied Pelicot’s crimes.
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A puppy owner named Heber left her 3-month-old dog Marky alone at home for the first time and watched him cry on a pet camera. After Marky escaped his crate, Heber decided to stop using it and instead let him roam freely, which made the dog happier.
Key Facts
Heber left her puppy Marky alone for 30 minutes while running an errand.
Marky was in a crate but cried loudly the whole time.
The puppy managed to jump out of the crate quickly.
Heber chose to stop using the crate after this experience.
Marky now roams freely at home and seems happier.
The family added a second dog to keep Marky company.
Crate training is common but should be a positive, safe space for dogs.
Experts say forcing dogs in crates or using them as punishment can cause problems.
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Iran has announced it is closing the Strait of Hormuz after attacks by the United States. Iranian officials said any ship trying to cross this important waterway will be targeted, and they warned that US actions have made diplomatic talks harder.
Key Facts
Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed.
The closure is a response to strikes by the US.
Iranian officials said they will target any vessel trying to cross the strait.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global shipping.
Iran stated that US actions have reduced chances for diplomacy.
The announcement increases tensions between Iran and the US.
The decision could affect international trade and oil shipments.
No details were given on how Iran will enforce the closure.
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Maasai women in northern Tanzania are growing special grass to feed animals during droughts. This activity helps them earn money and support their families after many livestock died from dry weather.
Key Facts
Drought killed many animals in northern Tanzania, causing hardship for Maasai communities.
Women like Nesirkar Loongidong’i started growing drought-resistant grass to feed livestock.
The Pastoral Women’s Council (PWC), a women-led group, helps organize fodder farming across multiple villages.
Around 250 women manage about 75 hectares (185 acres) of fodder farms, with plans to expand more.
These grasses stay green longer in dry times and are sold to local herders for animal feed.
This work has become a steady business, changing women’s roles from dependents to economic providers.
In 2025, one seed bank earned about $2,500 from seed sales plus hay bale sales.
Groups like the Global Fund for Women and Oxfam support these efforts as models for protecting livestock-based economies.
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Former Australian foreign affairs minister Gareth Evans criticized the Aukus security agreement, saying it is one of Australia’s worst foreign policy decisions. He warned that the submarines provided under the deal will mainly serve U.S. interests and that the U.S. might not defend Australia if attacked, as the submarines are linked closely to American military strategy.
Key Facts
Aukus is a $368 billion nuclear submarine deal between Australia, the U.S., and the UK.
The deal involves transferring and building submarines in Australia starting in the early 2030s.
Evans said the submarines will function as extensions of the U.S. Navy rather than an independent Australian force.
He believes the U.S. would only help Australia if its own military assets on Australian soil were threatened.
The production of these submarines faces delays, cost increases, and industrial challenges in both the U.S. and UK.
Australia plans to spend $4.5 billion over 10 years to help improve submarine production rates.
Critics say the deal increases the risk of conflict with China and may paint Australia as a military target.
A public inquiry is underway, including hearings with experts and officials, to examine the agreement’s implications.
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The new trailer for the "Legally Blonde" prequel series titled "Elle" shows Elle Woods as a high school student moving from Los Angeles to Seattle. The series follows her struggles to fit in, make friends, and discover who she is before attending Harvard Law.
Key Facts
The show is a prequel to "Legally Blonde," focusing on Elle Woods' life in 1995.
Elle moves from Los Angeles to Seattle with her family.
She feels out of place at her new high school and tries to fit in.
Elle faces challenges like tricky friendships, forbidden romance, and fashion struggles.
She helps fellow students expose the principal for altering official records.
The series highlights Elle's close bond with her mother.
The show explores how Elle grows into the character known from the original movies.
"Elle" will premiere on July 1 on Prime Video.
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The United States carried out strikes against Iran following an earlier incident where an Apache helicopter was shot down. Retired Army Major Mike Lyons provided analysis of the U.S. military actions.
Key Facts
The U.S. launched strikes on Iran on a Wednesday night.
The strikes came after Iran downed a U.S. Apache helicopter.
The Apache helicopter was attacked earlier in the same week.
CBS Pentagon reporter Eleanor Watson shared the latest updates on the strikes.
Retired Army Major Mike Lyons offered his analysis of the situation.
The news was reported by CBS News and is available on their app.
The military actions are linked directly to tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
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Mexico is preparing for the World Cup opening with big celebrations, but protests and social tensions in Mexico City are causing problems. Teachers and families of missing people are protesting, which has blocked access to key fan areas and raised concerns about focusing on social issues over the event.
Key Facts
Mexico is co-hosting the World Cup with the United States and Canada.
The opening match is Mexico vs. South Africa in Mexico City.
Protests by teachers and families of missing people are blocking access to the main fan plaza.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum faces criticism over World Cup spending and security issues.
Authorities deployed over 100,000 security personnel across the host cities.
The protests demand better investment in education and attention to humanitarian crises.
Cultural events for the World Cup include performances by stars like Shakira.
Organizers say alternative public viewing spots are prepared if the main plaza remains blocked.
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The U.S. military launched new strikes against targets in Iran, which it described as actions in self-defense. The strikes focused on ammunition storage sites, command centers, and warehouses.
Key Facts
The U.S. Central Command announced new strikes against Iran.
The strikes occurred on a Wednesday.
The U.S. called the attacks acts of self-defense.
Targets included ammunition depots, places where weapons are stored.
Other targets were command and control centers, which are used to coordinate military actions.
Warehouses were also targeted.
Two U.S. officials shared this information with CBS News.
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