Account

  Login
  Sign Up For Free

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Latest News

Recent developments and breaking news

Trump calls war on Iran a ‘little diversion’

Trump calls war on Iran a ‘little diversion’

April 17, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump called the war on Iran a "little diversion" while speaking in Las Vegas. He said the conflict, which has resulted in over 2,000 deaths, is going well and should end soon.

Key Facts

  • The war on Iran has caused more than 2,000 deaths.
  • President Trump referred to the war as a "little diversion."
  • He spoke about the conflict during an event in Las Vegas.
  • President Trump said the situation is "going swimmingly."
  • He expects the war to end in the near future.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Liz Kendall urges UK public to embrace AI as government makes first £500m fund investment

Liz Kendall urges UK public to embrace AI as government makes first £500m fund investment

April 17, 2026 • Technology • Guardian World

Summary

The UK government has started investing in artificial intelligence (AI) through a new £500 million fund, aiming to support local AI companies and innovation. Despite concerns about job losses and cybersecurity risks, officials say AI presents an important opportunity to create jobs and solve major problems.

Key Facts

  • The UK government launched a £500 million sovereign AI fund to invest in AI companies.
  • The first investment was made in Callosum, a London-based company that helps different computer chips work together to improve AI performance.
  • The government also invested in a second, unnamed AI business.
  • Six UK AI startups are getting access to government-funded supercomputers to help develop AI models.
  • Startups benefiting from supercomputers include Prima Mente (disease research), Cursive (autonomous AI agents), and Odyssey (AI world simulations).
  • Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said AI will create new jobs even though some roles may be automated.
  • Chancellor Rachel Reeves said supporting UK AI companies helps keep competitive businesses in Britain.
  • Callosum's co-founder highlighted the UK's strong universities and AI labs like DeepMind as reasons to build the company there.

Source Verification

Guardian World
Australian ex-soldier Roberts-Smith granted bail in Afghan war crimes case

Australian ex-soldier Roberts-Smith granted bail in Afghan war crimes case

April 17, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Ben Roberts-Smith, a former Australian soldier and Victoria Cross recipient, was granted bail after 10 days in jail. He faces charges of murdering five people in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2012, which he denies, and could face life in prison if convicted.

Key Facts

  • Roberts-Smith was arrested in Sydney and charged with murdering five people during his deployment in Afghanistan.
  • The alleged victims were reportedly not involved in fighting when they were killed.
  • Police say Roberts-Smith either shot the victims himself or ordered subordinates to do so in his presence.
  • He is a highly decorated soldier, awarded the Victoria Cross in 2011 and previously celebrated as a war hero and "father of the year."
  • Reports in 2018 accused him of involvement in killing unarmed Afghans and other war crimes, which he initially denied.
  • A 2023 court ruling found many of the journalists’ claims to be "substantially true" in a civil case with a lower standard of proof than this criminal trial.
  • Australia sent 39,000 troops to Afghanistan over 20 years, working alongside the US and NATO forces.
  • The case is expected to take years before going to trial, prompting the judge to grant bail.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Peacock terrorises 92-year-old farmer's chickens

Peacock terrorises 92-year-old farmer's chickens

April 17, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A peacock showed up unexpectedly on a 92-year-old farmer Tom Walne’s land in Suffolk and caused trouble by chasing his chickens and cockerels. After efforts to find the bird’s owner failed, the peacock was safely captured and taken to Easton Farm Park.

Key Facts

  • The peacock arrived at Tom Walne’s farm near Copdock on Monday.
  • At first, the peacock got along with the farmer’s chickens.
  • The next day, the bird began chasing the cockerels and disrupting the chickens.
  • Farmer Tom believes the peacock was trying to show it was in charge.
  • The farmer was able to catch the bird and put it in a pen for safety.
  • A friend posted on social media to find the peacock’s owner, but no one responded.
  • Easton Farm Park near Woodbridge agreed to take the peacock temporarily.
  • The peacock may remain at the park if it settles down in the coming days.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Myanmar leader commutes all death sentences

Myanmar leader commutes all death sentences

April 17, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Myanmar's leader Min Aung Hlaing has changed all death sentences to life in prison in a general amnesty. This was one of his first acts as the country's civilian president after leading a military takeover in 2021.

Key Facts

  • Min Aung Hlaing led a military coup in Myanmar in February 2021 and later became the civilian president.
  • After the coup, Myanmar resumed executions for the first time in decades, targeting people opposing the military rule.
  • More than 130 people were sentenced to death by 2022, according to the United Nations.
  • The leader’s recent order changed all death sentences to life imprisonment without naming specific individuals.
  • The amnesty was part of Myanmar’s New Year celebration, releasing over 4,300 prisoners, including 179 foreigners.
  • Political prisoners have been only a small part of those released in past amnesties since the coup.
  • Over 30,000 people have been detained for political reasons since the coup began.
  • Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar’s prominent political figure, remains jailed with a 27-year sentence.
  • The coup caused ongoing conflict between the military and pro-democracy and ethnic groups.
  • A military-backed election in January gave Min Aung Hlaing the presidency for five years.

Source Verification

France24
Every Record Justin Bieber and SKYLRK Broke Before Coachella Weekend 2

Every Record Justin Bieber and SKYLRK Broke Before Coachella Weekend 2

April 17, 2026 • Business • Newsweek

Summary

Justin Bieber made history at Coachella by setting new records for earnings, ticket sales, and live streaming during his headline performance. His clothing and lifestyle brand SKYLRK also broke sales records by earning over $5 million at the festival, surpassing previous records.

Key Facts

  • Justin Bieber headlined Coachella on April 10 and again on April 18.
  • Bieber earned a reported $10 million for his Coachella headlining, the highest ever for the festival.
  • Ticket demand and ticket prices for Bieber’s show were the highest in Coachella history.
  • His 90-minute performance was the most viewed live in Coachella’s history.
  • Bieber’s brand SKYLRK sold $5.04 million worth of merchandise during the festival weekend, beating the previous record of $1.7 million.
  • SKYLRK’s "Oasis" space and shop covered 10,000 square feet at Coachella.
  • Bieber co-founded SKYLRK with Neima Khaila and launched it in July last year.
  • Bieber’s music streams increased significantly during and after his Coachella performance.

Source Verification

Newsweek
France arrests suspect over 1982 attack on Jewish restaurant

France arrests suspect over 1982 attack on Jewish restaurant

April 17, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A man suspected of organizing a deadly 1982 attack on a Jewish restaurant in Paris was arrested in the West Bank and handed over to France. He arrived in France and was taken into custody, as part of cooperation between French and Palestinian authorities.

Key Facts

  • The suspect’s name is Mahmoud Khader Abed Adra, also known as Hicham Harb.
  • The attack happened on August 9, 1982, at a Jewish restaurant called Jo Goldenberg in Paris.
  • Three to five men threw a grenade and then opened fire, killing six people and injuring 22.
  • The attack was linked to the Fatah-Revolutionary Council, a Palestinian armed group.
  • Adra was arrested by Palestinian security forces in September last year.
  • France requested his extradition, and he arrived at a military airbase near Paris on Thursday.
  • Two other suspects are already in French custody, and a trial has been confirmed.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron praised Palestinian cooperation, connecting it to France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
‘How do I end a call?’: the elderly Japanese people determined to master smartphones

‘How do I end a call?’: the elderly Japanese people determined to master smartphones

April 17, 2026 • Technology • Guardian World

Summary

A group of elderly people in Tokyo are attending beginner classes to learn how to use smartphones. This effort comes as Japan’s mobile networks have ended older 3G services, pushing users to adopt newer 4G and 5G phones to keep communication and services.

Key Facts

  • The class includes mostly people in their 70s learning to use iPhones and Android phones.
  • Japan fully shut down its 3G networks by March 2024 to save energy and retire old equipment.
  • Around half a million people and over 400 phone models were affected by the 3G shutdown.
  • Some older flip phones still work on 4G, but many users must switch to smartphones or lose phone service.
  • Phone companies offer classes to teach older users how to manage calls, online shopping, photos, and security.
  • Participants want to learn about health trackers, weather apps, and safe internet habits.
  • Many elderly users feel overwhelmed by smartphone features but are determined to stay connected.
  • Instructors emphasize practice and caution with scams, recommending ignoring suspicious messages or calls.

Source Verification

Guardian World
Singer D4vd Arrested in Killing of 14-Year-Old Girl Found Dismembered

Singer D4vd Arrested in Killing of 14-Year-Old Girl Found Dismembered

April 17, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

Los Angeles police arrested singer David Burke, known as D4vd, for the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The girl's dismembered remains were found last year in a car registered to Burke. Burke is held without bail, and prosecutors will decide whether to file charges.

Key Facts

  • David Burke, a 21-year-old singer known as D4vd, was arrested in Los Angeles.
  • He is suspected of killing 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
  • The victim’s dismembered and decomposed body was found last year in a Tesla linked to Burke.
  • The Los Angeles Police Department arrested Burke and he is held without bail.
  • The case will be reviewed by the District Attorney’s office for possible charges.
  • No official cause of death has been made public.
  • Burke’s legal team denies he caused the girl’s death and says no indictment or charges have been filed yet.
  • The investigation is ongoing and more information may come out later.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth reads fake Bible verse from Pulp Fiction

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth reads fake Bible verse from Pulp Fiction

April 17, 2026 • Us • Al Jazeera

Summary

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth read a prayer at a Christian service held at the Pentagon. The prayer was actually a misquoted Bible verse from the movie Pulp Fiction, not the real Bible.

Key Facts

  • Pete Hegseth is the US Defense Secretary.
  • He read a prayer during a Christian service at the Pentagon.
  • The prayer he read came from a misquote of Ezekiel 25:17 shown in the movie Pulp Fiction.
  • The misquote is originally spoken by actor Samuel L. Jackson in the film.
  • Hegseth said the prayer was used by a US military mission called “Sandy 1” involved in combat search and rescue in Iran.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Celebrations in Lebanon as 10-day ceasefire with Israel begins

Celebrations in Lebanon as 10-day ceasefire with Israel begins

April 17, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon began, announced by President Donald Trump. The truce includes the Iran-backed group Hezbollah and has led to celebrations in Lebanon, though some violations of the ceasefire were reported.

Key Facts

  • The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon started with celebrations in Beirut.
  • President Donald Trump announced the ceasefire, which includes Hezbollah.
  • Hezbollah said it stopped its attacks 10 minutes before the ceasefire began.
  • The Lebanese army reported that Israel violated the ceasefire with shelling.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu agreed to the ceasefire but said troops will stay in a security zone inside Lebanon.
  • Lebanese Prime Minister Salam welcomed the ceasefire as a key goal of peace efforts.
  • President Trump invited Israeli and Lebanese leaders for talks at the White House.
  • Iran, Qatar, Jordan, and Bahrain expressed support for the ceasefire and peace efforts.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
IMF, World Bank say they are restoring ties with Venezuela

IMF, World Bank say they are restoring ties with Venezuela

April 17, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have started working again with Venezuela under its interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez. These financial organizations paused relations in 2019 due to international disagreement over who led Venezuela after contested elections.

Key Facts

  • The IMF and World Bank cut ties with Venezuela in 2019 because countries disagreed on whether Nicolas Maduro or Juan Guaido was the true leader.
  • The IMF announced it restored relations with Venezuela under acting President Delcy Rodriguez.
  • The World Bank followed the IMF’s decision and will also resume dealings with Venezuela.
  • The U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, recently removed sanctions against Rodriguez, helping her gain international recognition.
  • Delcy Rodriguez took power in January 2026 after President Trump ordered the capture of former President Maduro on drug and weapons charges.
  • Venezuela can now ask these financial institutions for money if needed to improve its difficult economic situation.
  • Venezuela owes more than $150 billion in debts, one of the largest debt burdens worldwide.
  • Venezuela has been a member of the IMF and World Bank since 1946 but last received a loan from the World Bank in 2005.

Source Verification

Al Jazeera
Republicans move forward on last-minute spy powers deal, teeing up late-night vote

Republicans move forward on last-minute spy powers deal, teeing up late-night vote

April 17, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

House Republican leaders are working on a last-minute deal to extend U.S. foreign spying powers for five more years. The plan includes adding rules about warrants and stronger punishments for breaking the law.

Key Facts

  • House Republicans are negotiating a compromise on spying powers late at night.
  • The extension would last five years.
  • The deal includes adding specific warrant requirements.
  • Stronger criminal penalties for violations are part of the proposal.
  • The text of the provision was shared around 10:30 p.m.
  • The update came several hours after the planned procedural vote.
  • This deal aims to gain support from Republican members who had opposed earlier versions.

Source Verification

The Hill
Australia fuel watch tracker: check current petrol and diesel prices, service station outages and shipments – in charts

Australia fuel watch tracker: check current petrol and diesel prices, service station outages and shipments – in charts

April 17, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

Australia is facing a fuel crisis with rising prices and some fuel station outages since the conflict between the US and Israel and Iran began. The government has released fuel reserves, cut fuel taxes, and launched a plan to maintain fuel security while tracking data on fuel deliveries, prices, and shortages across the country.

Key Facts

  • The Australian government has released fuel reserves and reduced fuel excise taxes to help during the fuel crisis.
  • Fuel prices for petrol and diesel have risen since late February, linked to the US and Israel's conflict with Iran.
  • Many independent businesses and local governments are involved, making it harder to understand the full situation with fuel availability.
  • Fuel outages have spiked in New South Wales and Victoria around late March, with stations running out and then restocking fuel.
  • At least six fuel shipments to Australia have been canceled or delayed, and more delays are expected.
  • Data shows fewer oil tankers visiting Australian ports in February and March compared to past years.
  • The number of tankers passing through the strait of Hormuz dropped sharply early in March, affecting global oil supply.
  • Despite the crisis, Australian fuel reserves have increased since before the conflict, and the government lowered mandatory fuel stockpiles for companies.

Source Verification

Guardian World
‘Parent’s worst nightmare’: Sydney childcare worker faces 137 child abuse charges relating to multiple centres

‘Parent’s worst nightmare’: Sydney childcare worker faces 137 child abuse charges relating to multiple centres

April 17, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

A childcare worker in Sydney has been charged with 137 offenses related to child abuse after police found evidence involving multiple childcare centers. The man, in his 30s, faces serious charges including making child abuse material and sexually touching children, with some charges carrying up to 20 years in prison.

Key Facts

  • The accused man was first charged in July 2025 with 8 counts related to online child abuse material.
  • Investigators reviewed 2.4 million electronic files on the man’s devices to find more victims and offences.
  • The total charges now number 137, including producing child abuse material and filming people without consent.
  • Offenses reportedly happened between 2009 and 2025 across several childcare centers.
  • He appeared at Parramatta local court but cannot be named due to a court order.
  • Some charges include intentionally sexually touching a child under 10 years old.
  • Certain charges have prison terms of up to 20 years.
  • A mother of children who might have been exposed expressed strong emotional distress outside court.

Source Verification

Guardian World
Middle East crisis live: UN chief calls for Israel-Lebanon ceasefire to be ‘fully’ respected as it comes into effect

Middle East crisis live: UN chief calls for Israel-Lebanon ceasefire to be ‘fully’ respected as it comes into effect

April 17, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon began at midnight, pausing deadly fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. The United Nations and the United States welcomed the truce, but both sides kept their right to defend themselves if attacked.

Key Facts

  • The ceasefire started Thursday night and is set to last 10 days.
  • The conflict has killed over 2,100 Lebanese people and displaced more than 2.1 million.
  • The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for all parties to respect the ceasefire.
  • The United States helped negotiate the ceasefire and invited Israeli and Lebanese leaders for talks at the White House.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the ceasefire a chance for peace but refused to withdraw troops from southern Lebanon.
  • Terms allow Israel to defend itself against ongoing or planned attacks, but offensive actions are restricted.
  • Lebanon and Hezbollah urged residents to be careful when returning to homes due to ongoing risks.
  • Iran welcomed the ceasefire and stressed the need for Israel’s full withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

Source Verification

Guardian World
After a saga of broken promises, a European rover finally has a ride to Mars

After a saga of broken promises, a European rover finally has a ride to Mars

April 17, 2026 • World • Ars Technica

Summary

NASA confirmed that SpaceX will launch the European Space Agency’s Rosalind Franklin Mars rover, possibly by late 2028, using a Falcon Heavy rocket from Florida. This mission has experienced many delays due to changing partnerships, funding issues, technical problems, and the conflict caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • The Rosalind Franklin rover is a European project aiming to explore Mars.
  • Originally planned for launch in 2009, the mission has been delayed many times.
  • The project was renamed ExoMars and involved a partnership between NASA and ESA starting in 2009.
  • NASA pulled out in 2012 due to budget issues, and ESA then partnered with Russia to provide launch vehicles and landing systems.
  • The Russian Proton rocket successfully launched the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter in 2016, which still orbits Mars and collects data.
  • The rover launch was delayed to 2020 and then late 2022 due to parachute test failures and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 caused ESA to end its partnership with Russia, removing Russian components and instruments from the mission.
  • NASA and SpaceX have now stepped in to launch the rover on a Falcon Heavy rocket from Kennedy Space Center.

Source Verification

Ars Technica
Harry and Meghan meet Bondi shooting survivors

Harry and Meghan meet Bondi shooting survivors

April 17, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Prince Harry and Meghan visited Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where they met survivors and first responders of a deadly shooting at a Hanukkah event. They also spoke with volunteer lifeguards and community members affected by the attack during their Australian trip.

Key Facts

  • The shooting at Bondi Beach killed 15 people and injured 40 in December.
  • Harry and Meghan met survivors Jessica Chapnik Khan and Elon Zizer, who protected their children during the shooting.
  • Lifeguards from the Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club, praised for helping during the attack, joined the meeting.
  • Representatives from the Sydney Jewish Museum, which is preparing an exhibition about the shooting, attended the visit.
  • The couple later went to the Sydney Opera House and took part in a sailing event hosted by Invictus Australia.
  • Prince Harry founded the Invictus Games for wounded veterans; Australia hosted these games in 2018.
  • This was Harry and Meghan’s first visit to Australia since their 2018 royal tour, now as private citizens.

Source Verification

BBC Top Stories
Is 'Law & Order: SVU' Canceled or Renewed at NBC?

Is 'Law & Order: SVU' Canceled or Renewed at NBC?

April 17, 2026 • Business • Newsweek

Summary

NBC has renewed the TV show "Law & Order: SVU" for its 28th season due to its ongoing popularity. The show continues to feature Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson and Ice-T, with the next season set to air starting April 23.

Key Facts

  • "Law & Order: SVU" was renewed by NBC for a 28th season.
  • "Law & Order: Organized Crime" was canceled after five seasons.
  • Mariska Hargitay will continue playing Olivia Benson, and Ice-T will return as well.
  • The show is part of the long-running "Law & Order" franchise.
  • "Law & Order: SVU" has won six Primetime Emmy Awards.
  • The show is known for its strong fan base and cultural impact.
  • It originally premiered in 1999 and remains popular after many years.
  • The new season will begin airing on April 23.

Source Verification

Newsweek
Acting ICE chief to exit agency: DHS secretary

Acting ICE chief to exit agency: DHS secretary

April 17, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

The acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, will leave his position on May 31. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced that Lyons will move to a new job in the private sector.

Key Facts

  • Todd Lyons is the acting head of ICE.
  • Lyons will leave his role at the end of May.
  • Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced the departure.
  • Lyons is leaving to work in the private sector.
  • The announcement was made on the social platform X.

Source Verification

The Hill