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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Latest News

Recent developments and breaking news

More than 37 days of heavy rain brings disastrous flooding to France

More than 37 days of heavy rain brings disastrous flooding to France

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

Heavy rain for over a month has caused severe flooding in western France. Some villages are cut off, and power outages are affecting homes.

Key Facts

  • Flooding happened after 37 days of heavy rain.
  • Some villages in western France are isolated because of the floods.
  • Many people are stranded due to the bad weather.
  • Some homes do not have electricity because of the floods.
  • The rainfall broke previous records in the area.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Who are the winners and losers from F1 pre-season testing?

Who are the winners and losers from F1 pre-season testing?

February 20, 2026 • Sports

Summary

The final pre-season test for Formula 1 before the new season showed that Ferrari and Mercedes are strong competitors, with Charles Leclerc achieving the fastest lap time. However, Aston Martin faced significant challenges, needing improvement in their new car's performance and reliability. Testing in Bahrain provided insights for teams as they prepare for the start of the season in Australia.

Key Facts

  • Charles Leclerc from Ferrari had the fastest lap in pre-season testing, 0.811 seconds ahead of the next best driver.
  • Andre Stella from McLaren stated that Ferrari and Mercedes seem to be the leading teams going into the new season.
  • Mercedes and Ferrari's positions are based on both single lap times and race-simulation runs, which reflect longer race conditions.
  • McLaren and Red Bull followed closely behind in performance conversations.
  • Mercedes has concerns over car reliability, affecting some drivers like Kimi Antonelli more than others.
  • Aston Martin, beginning a partnership with Honda, faced issues with performance, reliability, and completed the fewest laps during testing.
  • McLaren is expected to improve in Australia with an updated Mercedes power-unit.
  • Red Bull's engine, a new entry by Mercedes, has strong energy deployment, crucial for the season.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
'Hard to keep lights on' - Business owners cautiously welcome tariff ruling

'Hard to keep lights on' - Business owners cautiously welcome tariff ruling

February 20, 2026 • Business

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court stopped President Trump's ability to impose certain global tariffs, which could help businesses like Jenelle Peterson's toy company. Business owners are cautiously hopeful but worried about getting refunds on tariffs they already paid. President Trump may use other laws to continue imposing tariffs.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Supreme Court blocked President Trump's power to impose certain global tariffs.
  • Business owner Jenelle Peterson might expand her toy imports due to the decision.
  • Businesses are worried about the process to get refunds for tariffs they've already paid.
  • President Trump plans to impose a 10% global tariff using a different law.
  • The decision affects tariffs imposed under a 1977 law called the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
  • Despite the ruling, the average effective tariff rate remains high at 9.1%.
  • Businesses and trade groups welcomed the decision but still have concerns about other potential tariffs.
  • The stock market's reaction to the news was small, with only moderate gains.

Source Verification

BBC US
Trump hits out at 'deeply disappointing' Supreme Court decision

Trump hits out at 'deeply disappointing' Supreme Court decision

February 20, 2026 • Us

Summary

President Donald Trump expressed his disappointment after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned global tariffs he implemented last year. The court ruled that President Trump overstepped his authority by using a law meant for national emergencies. In response, Trump announced plans to impose a new 10% tariff using a different legal option.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump reacted to the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to strike down global tariffs he had imposed.
  • The Supreme Court said President Trump exceeded his authority by using a law for national emergencies to implement the tariffs.
  • The tariffs were supposed to affect global trade and had been in place since last year.
  • In response to the court's decision, President Trump plans to use section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act.
  • Trump announced he will issue an executive order to impose a new 10% global tariff under this section.

Source Verification

BBC US
At least two killed in Israeli attack on Palestinian camp in Lebanon

At least two killed in Israeli attack on Palestinian camp in Lebanon

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

At least two people died in an Israeli attack on a Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon. The strike was part of ongoing tensions after a ceasefire with the armed group Hezbollah. The Israeli army claimed it targeted a Hamas command center.

Key Facts

  • An Israeli drone hit the Hittin neighborhood of the Ein el-Hilweh camp in Lebanon.
  • The attack killed two people and injured several others.
  • The Israeli army said the strike targeted a Hamas command center.
  • Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health confirmed the two deaths.
  • Lebanon has accused Israel of repeatedly violating a 2024 ceasefire.
  • The United Nations reported over 10,000 Israeli attacks on Lebanon since the ceasefire.
  • Lebanon has filed a complaint with the UN about these attacks and the occupation of territory.
  • Israel carried out a previous raid on the same camp in November, causing 13 deaths.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
GB '25 years' behind world's best in short track

GB '25 years' behind world's best in short track

February 20, 2026 • Sports

Summary

Great Britain is 25 years behind other countries in short track speed skating due to outdated facilities and reduced funding. Niall Treacy was the only British athlete to compete in the three short track events at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, where Britain previously sent a well-funded team. British Ice Skating is working on rebuilding the sport amid financial challenges.

Key Facts

  • Great Britain lacks modern facilities for short track speed skating, which affects athlete performance.
  • Niall Treacy was the only British competitor in short track events at Milan-Cortina 2026.
  • In 2018, five athletes from Great Britain competed with medal hopes in the Winter Olympics.
  • Short track has received reduced funding compared to £4.8 million in 2018.
  • Current UK Sport funding for short track, figure, and long track skating is under £2 million.
  • Team GB has no international-standard rink with necessary padding for safety.
  • Ice rink operational costs have increased, affecting maintenance and facility use.
  • UK Sport considers short track a development sport, aiming for a better team by 2030.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
The truth behind wildlife tourism

The truth behind wildlife tourism

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

The article discusses concerns about how expanding tourism in Kenya and Tanzania affects wildlife and local communities. Conservationists and local leaders worry that development is disrupting animal movement paths and the rights of the Maasai people. The article looks into how these changes affect animal migration and the economic importance of tourism.

Key Facts

  • Millions visit Kenya and Tanzania for the Great Migration each year.
  • Expanding tourism infrastructure is a major concern for local wildlife.
  • Conservationists warn that development disrupts wildlife corridors.
  • Community leaders say these changes impact Maasai land rights.
  • The article examines if conservation and local community needs can coexist.
  • Experts contributing to the discussion include lawyers, veterinarians, and researchers.
  • Tourism is important for the economy but raises questions about its ecological and social impacts.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Trump suggests he won’t refund tariffs after Supreme Court ruling

Trump suggests he won’t refund tariffs after Supreme Court ruling

February 20, 2026 • Us

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized the U.S. Supreme Court for overturning his global tariffs known as "Liberation Day" tariffs. He indicated that he does not intend to return the tariff fees already collected by the government.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court overturned President Trump's "Liberation Day" global tariffs.
  • President Trump criticized the Supreme Court's decision.
  • The tariffs affected international trade by adding extra charges on goods.
  • Tariffs are taxes charged on imports or exports.
  • President Trump stated he does not plan to return the fees collected from these tariffs.
  • These tariff fees had already been collected by the U.S. government.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Trump ‘considering’ limited strikes on Iran

Trump ‘considering’ limited strikes on Iran

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

President Trump has stated that he is thinking about limited military strikes on Iran. This consideration is happening while discussions on Iran's nuclear program continue. He mentioned that Iran might have around 10 to 15 days to make an agreement.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is the current President of the United States.
  • Trump is considering limited strikes on Iran.
  • The potential military action relates to Iran's nuclear program.
  • Trump discussed this idea during a governors' meeting.
  • He believes Iran may need 10 to 15 days to finalize a deal.
  • The talks focus on Iran's nuclear activities and potential agreements about them.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Bishop of Lincoln arrested in sexual assault inquiry

Bishop of Lincoln arrested in sexual assault inquiry

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

Bishop Stephen Conway of Lincoln has been arrested by Lincolnshire Police on suspicion of sexual assault. The Church of England has suspended him from his duties while the investigation continues. The Diocese of Lincoln has appointed the Bishop of Grantham to oversee duties during Conway's suspension.

Key Facts

  • Bishop Stephen Conway has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
  • The arrest is part of an ongoing investigation by Lincolnshire Police related to allegations from between 2018 and 2025.
  • Bishop Conway has been suspended from ministry by the Church of England.
  • He has been released on conditional bail.
  • The Diocese of Lincoln confirmed that Dr. Nicholas Chamberlain, the Bishop of Grantham, will take over responsibilities during the suspension.
  • Support is being offered to those affected by the situation.
  • Bishop Conway was formally installed as the Bishop of Lincoln in November 2023.
  • Conway is also a member of the House of Lords in the UK.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Trump: Supreme Court’s rejection of tariffs ‘deeply disappointing’

Trump: Supreme Court’s rejection of tariffs ‘deeply disappointing’

February 20, 2026 • Us

Summary

President Donald Trump criticized the Supreme Court after it ruled against tariffs he had imposed. The Court decided that the President did not have the legal power to set these tariffs without a proper national emergency.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump criticized the Supreme Court.
  • The Court struck down tariffs that Trump imposed in 2025.
  • The decision was a 6-3 vote by the justices.
  • The Court said Trump didn't have the authority to use a law meant for emergencies to impose these tariffs.
  • Trump called some of the justices a "disgrace."

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies passes controversial labour reform bill

Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies passes controversial labour reform bill

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

Argentina's Chamber of Deputies passed a labor reform bill after a 12-hour session, a key legislative win for President Javier Milei. The bill, which changes worker-employer relations, will now go to the Senate for further review. The reform is controversial, sparking both a national strike and protests among workers.

Key Facts

  • Argentina’s lower house of Congress passed a labor reform bill after a 12-hour debate.
  • The bill is seen as an important achievement for President Javier Milei.
  • The national strike against the bill led to factory and business closures.
  • The bill includes changes such as extending the workday from 8 to 12 hours and limiting severance pay.
  • Supporters say the reform will modernize the labor market and boost foreign investment.
  • Critics argue it will harm workers' rights and increase job insecurity.
  • The bill is expected to become law after the Senate reviews adjustments.
  • Thousands protested outside Congress during the vote in solidarity with the nationwide strike.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Scoop: Rep. Summer Lee to deliver progressive State of the Union response

Scoop: Rep. Summer Lee to deliver progressive State of the Union response

February 20, 2026 • Us

Summary

Rep. Summer Lee will deliver the Working Families Party's response to President Trump's State of the Union address. This response is part of a tradition where rising stars on the left share their views after the President's speech. The main Democratic response will be provided by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, highlighting differences within the Democratic Party.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Summer Lee is from Pennsylvania and will speak for the progressive Working Families Party.
  • This response follows a tradition of rising stars delivering speeches, with past speakers like Reps. Ayanna Pressley and Rashida Tlaib.
  • Lee plans to address concerns about a "rigged system" favoring the wealthy.
  • The main Democratic response will come from Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger.
  • Spanberger represents a more moderate view within the Democratic Party.
  • The speeches happen amid Democratic Party debates between progressive and moderate factions.
  • Progressive and moderate Democrats are competing in primary elections across the country.
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has encouraged Democrats to quietly attend or boycott the State of the Union, avoiding protests inside the chamber.

Source Verification

Axios
Trump to impose global 10% tariff after Supreme Court loss

Trump to impose global 10% tariff after Supreme Court loss

February 20, 2026 • Business

Summary

President Trump announced that he will sign an executive order to impose a 10% tariff on goods from all countries. This move follows a Supreme Court decision that blocked some existing tariffs. The new tariffs are allowed under the Trade Act of 1974, which lets the President set tariffs for a limited time.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plans to impose a 10% tariff on imports from all countries.
  • This action follows a Supreme Court decision that overturned previous tariffs.
  • The tariffs are being imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.
  • The Trade Act of 1974 permits tariffs for up to 150 days.
  • The tariffs under this act can go up to 15%.
  • President Trump cited addressing trade deficits as a reason for the tariffs.

Source Verification

Axios
Why did the US Supreme Court strike down Trump’s global tariff policy?

Why did the US Supreme Court strike down Trump’s global tariff policy?

February 20, 2026 • Us

Summary

The US Supreme Court ruled against President Trump's use of a national emergency declaration to enforce widespread global tariffs. This decision affects how tariffs, or taxes on imported goods, are applied when linked to national emergencies.

Key Facts

  • The US Supreme Court made a decision against President Trump's tariff policy.
  • These tariffs were linked to a national emergency declaration.
  • The ruling affects how future tariffs can be imposed in similar situations.
  • President Trump used a national emergency as a reason for these tariffs.
  • The Court clarified that the United States is not at war with every nation, influencing their decision.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
What happens next for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?

What happens next for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

Police are continuing to search Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's former home, Royal Lodge, in Windsor. He was released under investigation after being arrested over a complaint about allegedly sharing confidential material with Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing.

Key Facts

  • Police are searching Royal Lodge, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's former home.
  • Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was released under investigation.
  • He was arrested due to a complaint about sharing confidential material.
  • The material was allegedly shared with Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has denied doing anything wrong.
  • The BBC's Helena Wilkinson is reporting on the arrest from outside his home.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Trump "absolutely ashamed" of SCOTUS for tariffs ruling

Trump "absolutely ashamed" of SCOTUS for tariffs ruling

February 20, 2026 • Us

Summary

President Trump expressed disappointment after the Supreme Court ruled against his wide-ranging tariffs plan. He believed the tariffs would help grow the U.S. economy and reduce national debt.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said he is "absolutely ashamed" of the Supreme Court's decision.
  • The case related to Trump's tariffs was described by him as the "most important case ever."
  • The Supreme Court's decision is seen as a setback to Trump's economic and foreign policy.
  • Trump hoped the tariffs would boost the U.S. economy and pay down national debt.
  • The Supreme Court ruled that Trump's global tariffs were illegal.
  • Trump mentioned he might need to find new solutions if tariffs are not allowed.
  • He previously argued that removing tariffs could affect U.S. national security.

Source Verification

Axios
Inside Israel’s plan to turn West Bank land into ‘state property’

Inside Israel’s plan to turn West Bank land into ‘state property’

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

The Israeli government plans to claim parts of the West Bank as "state property" if Palestinians can't prove they own the land. This decision has caused strong reactions and accusations of trying to take over territory, adding to ongoing tensions over settlement expansions.

Key Facts

  • Israel plans to designate parts of the West Bank as "state property."
  • Palestinians need to prove land ownership to prevent this claim.
  • The decision has resulted in regional criticism and concerns.
  • Many see this as a step towards annexing the territory.
  • The West Bank has had long-standing disputes regarding land ownership.
  • Jewish settlements in the area have been expanding over time.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Met asks Andrew's protection officers what they saw or heard in Epstein inquiry

Met asks Andrew's protection officers what they saw or heard in Epstein inquiry

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

The Metropolitan Police in the UK is asking protection officers of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor about what they might know regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case. Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct but has denied any wrongdoing and was released while investigations continue. Authorities are searching his former home, and there is also talk of possibly removing him from the line of royal succession.

Key Facts

  • The Metropolitan Police is contacting protection officers for information related to Andrew's activities linked to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested and released while under investigation for alleged misconduct in public office.
  • Nine UK police forces are considering opening investigations after the release of over three million documents related to Epstein.
  • No new criminal allegations or officer wrongdoing have been identified by the Metropolitan Police so far.
  • There are suggestions London airports might have been used for human trafficking, being assessed by law enforcement.
  • The UK government may consider removing Andrew from the royal succession line.
  • Police are conducting a detailed search of Andrew's former home in Windsor.
  • Decisions regarding possible charges against Andrew could take weeks or months.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Who made the cut on Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ and what they want

Who made the cut on Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ and what they want

February 20, 2026 • World

Summary

President Donald Trump is leading the first meeting of the new "Board of Peace," which will focus on a ceasefire in Gaza and raising funds to help rebuild the area. About 24 countries are participating, but some important U.S. allies are not involved. President Trump has indicated that the plans for Gaza are larger than it alone.

Key Facts

  • The "Board of Peace" is a new initiative chaired by President Trump.
  • The group's first meeting will discuss the ceasefire in Gaza.
  • Fundraising for rebuilding Gaza is also on the agenda.
  • About two dozen countries are part of the Board of Peace.
  • Some key allies of the United States are not part of this board.
  • President Trump mentioned that the plans for Gaza go beyond just that region.
  • The article was produced by a team from Al Jazeera and includes perspectives from an Al Jazeera journalist.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera