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The article shares photos and stories of women in New York who have been sentenced to life in prison, showing their daily lives inside and their experiences after release. It highlights their struggles, hopes, and efforts to rebuild their lives beyond their crimes.
Key Facts
Photographer Sara Bennett spent over ten years documenting women serving life sentences for homicide in New York.
The portraits include personal items like Polaroids, letters, and drawings to tell a fuller story.
Some women have been released after decades in prison and face challenges such as homelessness and health issues.
Several women describe how they find meaning through faith, work, and caring for others while incarcerated.
Restrictions in prison, such as not being allowed to hug loved ones during visits, affect their emotional well-being.
Stories show that these women are more than their crimes and continue to seek hope and change.
Support services like the Women’s Prison Association provide shelter and assistance after release.
The article brings attention to the humanity and complexity of women serving long sentences in the U.S. prison system.
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A top U.S. diplomat said Taiwan should build many drones to help protect itself and keep peace in the region. Taiwan faces increased threats from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, and the U.S. supports Taiwan’s military upgrade plans, including drone development.
Key Facts
Raymond Greene, the U.S. top diplomat in Taiwan, said drones offer a big chance to improve Taiwan’s security and peace.
Taiwan is increasing its defenses amid rising pressure from China, which wants Taiwan to be part of its territory.
The U.S. is Taiwan’s main military supporter and arms supplier, despite no formal diplomatic ties.
Taiwan’s government wants to spend about US$6.59 billion on drones and related systems by 2031.
Taiwan’s opposition party suggested a different drone spending plan totaling about US$7.5 billion over six years, with a cap on yearly spending.
A portion of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan was paused to save weapons for the U.S.-Israel conflict involving Iran.
Taiwan’s President William Lai says building drone capabilities is urgent for national defense.
Lai rejects China’s claim over Taiwan and emphasizes that Taiwan’s future should be decided by its people.
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Asian stock markets mostly fell due to heavy selling of computer chip company shares. U.S. stock futures stayed mostly stable after small losses, while oil prices dropped following talks between the U.S. and Iran about ending their conflict.
Key Facts
South Korea’s Kospi index dropped 5.1%, with major chip makers SK Hynix down 7.7% and Samsung Electronics down 6.4%.
Japan’s Nikkei 225 index fell 1.5%; chip equipment maker Tokyo Electron shares dropped 5.6%.
Taiwan’s Taiex index declined 1.1%, with semiconductor company TSMC down 1.8%.
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index rose 0.8%, helped by an 8.7% increase in Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD after rising sales.
The Shanghai Composite index decreased 0.9%, while Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 edged down 0.1%, and India’s Sensex climbed 0.5%.
U.S. chip stocks also fell on Wednesday: Micron Technology down 10.6%, Intel down 9%, AMD down 6.9%, Broadcom down 2.2%, and Nvidia down 1.3%.
The S&P 500 index dropped 0.2%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell slightly, and the Nasdaq dropped 0.7%.
Economists say demand for artificial intelligence (AI) may keep growing, but possibly slower than expected due to challenges in adopting AI technology.
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The war in Gaza began 1,000 days ago after a Hamas attack on Israel. Since then, there have been ongoing attacks, fragile ceasefires, and a difficult situation for more than 2 million Palestinians living in Gaza. Although a ceasefire reduced some violence, daily strikes and displacement continue, and reconstruction and peace efforts remain stalled.
Key Facts
The war started with a Hamas-led attack on Israel over 1,000 days ago.
More than 2 million Palestinians live in Gaza, many displaced and in ruins.
An October 2025 ceasefire has reduced violence but daily Israeli strikes still occur.
Over 1,000 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire, including many women and children.
Israeli forces control around 70% of Gaza under the current ceasefire terms.
Efforts to disarm Hamas and rebuild Gaza have not made much progress.
The United Nations warns that ongoing Israeli control increases risks for civilians.
President Donald Trump proposed a 20-point peace plan aiming to end Hamas’ rule and rebuild Gaza.
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An Ebola outbreak is spreading in eastern Congo, with over 1,300 confirmed cases and many deaths. Health workers face difficult conditions trying to treat patients, and a vaccine is still months away.
Key Facts
The outbreak is centered in Ituri province, eastern Congo.
More than 1,300 cases of Ebola have been confirmed so far.
Hundreds of people have died, including children and health workers.
Ebola spreads through contact with bodily fluids like blood and vomit.
There is no approved treatment or vaccine for this Ebola strain yet.
Health workers wear protective gear despite hot and humid conditions.
The outbreak occurs in a region already affected by conflict and instability.
Funerals highlight the serious impact, showing that the disease affects all people, regardless of age or status.
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Experts warn that many old fridges in the UK cannot handle recent record-high temperatures above 32°C. Supermarket and home refrigerators are struggling or breaking down because they were designed in cooler times, causing issues like empty shelves and higher energy costs.
Key Facts
Many UK fridges were made to work in air temperatures up to about 32°C.
Recent heatwaves have pushed temperatures above this limit, causing fridges to fail.
Supermarket fridges sometimes switch off or reduce the number of cabinets in use to keep others cool.
Engineers report many fridges breaking down during heatwaves.
Refrigeration experts test fridges in climate-controlled labs to see how they handle higher temperatures.
The UK Climate Change Commission found the 2022 heatwave caused many refrigeration failures in stores.
Some UK supermarkets are now designing fridges that can work in temperatures as high as 35°C to 38°C.
Higher energy costs and empty shelves have resulted from fridges struggling to keep food cold in the heat.
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Oil prices have dropped to their lowest level since the start of the US-Israel conflict involving Iran. This fall happened as talks between the US and Iran showed positive progress toward a peace deal, and oil shipping through the Strait of Hormuz began to recover.
Key Facts
Brent crude oil prices fell below $71 a barrel, reaching levels last seen before the conflict started.
Prices dropped more than 38% from their peak of over $126 per barrel on April 30.
Qatar is mediating negotiations between the US and Iran, and recent talks have shown positive progress.
President Donald Trump said the denuclearization talks with Iran are moving well.
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil trade, increased from 22 to 40 vessels in a few days but remains below normal levels.
The Strait of Hormuz handles about 20% of the world’s oil and gas trade during peacetime.
Iran agreed to try to ensure safe passage of ships but maintains control over movements in the strait.
Since the war began, there have been at least 49 attacks on commercial ships in the strait, with Iran involved or blamed in most cases.
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Two young men in Leeds saw a fire near a house and helped an elderly couple and their grandson get to safety. Their quick action was widely praised on social media, and both their families expressed pride in their bravery.
Key Facts
Mohsin Qayyum (22) and Mohammed Yusuf Iqbal (20) were driving past a house in Kirkstall, Leeds, when they noticed a fire.
They stopped and helped an elderly couple and their grandson escape the fire.
Iqbal jumped over a fence to reach the family during the emergency.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the fire started because a flammable object was too close to a controlled fire.
Both men were surprised by the attention and praise they received after the incident.
Their families expressed pride and highlighted the importance of their actions as positive examples.
The incident was seen as a positive story about young Asian Muslim men in the community.
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A woman named Lorraine reported a police officer from the Metropolitan Police who behaved badly toward her. She faced many years of struggle to be taken seriously and only recently did a disciplinary panel find the officer guilty of serious misconduct. The police force apologized for their mistakes in handling her case and gave her a financial settlement, but she still feels the system failed her.
Key Facts
Lorraine reported a Met Police officer, Phil Hunter, who groomed her and behaved inappropriately over two years.
Hunter retired in 2019 while under investigation for similar behavior toward another woman.
In 2024, a disciplinary panel found Hunter guilty of gross misconduct for a second time.
The Metropolitan Police’s Professional Standards unit ignored Lorraine’s complaints for years.
A 2023 review by Baroness Casey called the Met Police "institutionally misogynistic" and highlighted Lorraine’s case.
Lorraine received a large payout and an apology in 2025 for failings, including victim-blaming and false information shared about her.
The police internally labelled her a "fixated complainant" for persistently seeking justice.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct intervened to ensure the disciplinary panel took place.
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A convicted people smuggler named Twana Jamal, who was jailed in France in 2016, is now living and working illegally in Leicestershire, UK. Authorities are concerned that other convicted smugglers may also be living in the UK under false names, raising questions about the effectiveness of border controls for asylum seekers.
Key Facts
Twana Jamal was sentenced to five years in prison in France for people smuggling in 2016.
The BBC found Jamal living in Blaby, Leicestershire, working without legal permission and driving without a license.
Jamal appears to be using a false name and may be seeking asylum in the UK.
Law enforcement in Europe says at least 15 other convicted people smugglers are living in the UK under false identities.
This situation has caused concerns about how well UK border controls check asylum seekers with criminal records abroad.
The UK Home Office says all asylum seekers go through security and identity checks.
The UK has agreements with other countries to share criminal history information.
Immigration enforcement in the UK is currently at its highest level in history.
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A new study by Stockholm University found that the pesticide fluazinam, approved in the EU since 2008, may harm brain development in rats. This challenges a 2005 industry study that said the pesticide was safe, leading experts and campaigners to call for its withdrawal while it undergoes re-evaluation.
Key Facts
Fluazinam is a fungicide used to protect crops like potatoes and apples from fungal diseases.
The pesticide was approved in the EU in 2008 based on safety data that showed no significant effects on brain development.
Stockholm University researchers re-analyzed the original data and found six cases where fluazinam caused negative effects on the brain size and shape of rat offspring.
The new findings suggest the pesticide could cause serious brain development problems.
The original 2005 study has been criticized for not accurately reporting significant harmful effects.
Experts say failing to report these effects may breach EU pesticide laws.
Fluazinam is currently being reconsidered for approval in the EU and remains approved in the UK until 2029.
Campaign groups urge regulators to withdraw fluazinam immediately to prevent potential harm to humans, especially children.
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Orcas have been seen more often and closer to shore near the Farne Islands off the Northumberland coast, attracting many wildlife watchers. Experts are unsure why sightings have increased but say it might show the marine environment is improving.
Key Facts
The Farne Islands are known for birds like guillemots and puffins, but recently orcas have appeared more frequently.
Orcas are now often seen near the shore, unlike previous years when they were mostly seen far out at sea.
Dolphin sightings in the area have also increased.
Wildlife tour operators have noticed more visitors since the orcas started appearing regularly.
A government ban on sandeel fishing two years ago may have helped by protecting small fish that form the base of the marine food chain.
More sandeels, mackerel, and herring are now seen, which could attract orcas and dolphins.
Different orca pods have been spotted, not just one group returning.
Experts say better public awareness or shifting orca habits could also explain the rise in sightings.
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A policy expert suggests giving English mayors control over many public services like social care, childcare, health, and education. This idea supports shifting power from the central government in London (Whitehall) to local leaders, aiming to reduce regional inequality in England.
Key Facts
JP Spencer, a devolution expert, proposes mayors should manage major public services such as social care, childcare, skills training, health, and education.
Mayors could appoint commissioners to oversee schools, healthcare providers, and police, similar to police and crime commissioners.
Spencer recommends aligning police forces with mayoral areas and letting mayors act as police commissioners.
Andy Burnham, a leading Labour figure and possible next prime minister, supports moving power away from Whitehall to regional areas.
England faces high regional inequality, particularly in the north, due to centralised government control.
The current government, including Steve Reed, has considered but not fully adopted these wide-ranging devolution plans.
Some Labour MPs express concern over devolving power quickly, especially in regions where opposition parties are strong.
Angela Rayner plans to publicly support further devolution, signaling Labour’s interest in changing power structures.
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The Leeds International Piano Competition will be relaunched under the leadership of pianist Sir Stephen Hough, who plans to introduce changes to how the contest is run. The 2027 competition will raise the age limit to 35 and allow competitors full freedom to choose their music pieces.
Key Facts
Sir Stephen Hough is the new artistic director of the Leeds International Piano Competition.
The competition started in 1963 and happens every three years.
Competitors for 2027 can be up to 35 years old, higher than the usual limit of 30.
Participants can now choose any music they want to perform, without a preset list.
The final round involves performing a concerto with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.
The jury includes well-known pianists and composer Errollyn Wallen.
The competition aims to better showcase musicians’ true abilities and personal music style.
Past winners include famous pianists like Radu Lupu and Murray Perahia.
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A man named Twana Jamal, convicted in France for running people smuggling operations, is now living in the UK and seeking asylum while working illegally. UK authorities struggle to verify criminal records from some countries, allowing convicted smugglers like Jamal to enter and live in the country under false names.
Key Facts
Twana Jamal was sentenced to five years in jail in France in 2016 for people smuggling.
He was described as a top smuggler who earned up to £100,000 a week helping migrants cross the Channel.
Jamal used many fake names and was nicknamed "Pasha" in the French migrant camps.
He was found guilty but later entered the UK where he applied for asylum.
UK border officials say it is harder to check criminal records after Brexit.
European police say 15 convicted people smugglers are believed to live in the UK using false identities.
Jamal lives in Leicestershire and was seen working illegally and driving without a license.
He is linked to Kurdish gangs known for controlling cross-channel smuggling routes.
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Patients in Gaza who need medical treatment abroad face long delays because of slow security checks and limited border crossings. Many patients, including Amina Abu al-Kas, died waiting for permission to leave, while thousands more remain on waiting lists.
Key Facts
Amina Abu al-Kas suffered from a severe infection that Gaza hospitals could not treat.
After approval for medical evacuation, her family waited weeks before her paperwork was ready, but she died before being able to leave.
Gaza’s health ministry reports about 300 Palestinians have died waiting for medical evacuation since last October.
Around 15,000 Palestinians currently await permission to travel for medical treatment abroad.
The World Health Organization helps coordinate patient transfers through Israeli and Egyptian border crossings.
Since the ceasefire began over eight months ago, nearly 2,000 people have been evacuated for treatment outside Gaza.
Patients need to pass security checks by several countries and get acceptance from hospitals abroad before traveling.
The Rafah crossing with Egypt is open three days a week for departures; the Kerem Shalom crossing with Israel allows medical evacuations only one day a week.
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The United States is celebrating its 250th year of independence. People from Brazil, Egypt, India, Australia, Canada, and the UK shared their mixed views on America today, showing both respect and criticism.
Key Facts
The US is marking 250 years since its independence.
The BBC asked people in six countries about their views on America.
The countries asked were Brazil, Egypt, India, Australia, Canada, and the UK.
Opinions included both admiration and criticism of the US.
The views reflect on America’s current role in the world.
The article includes video reports from journalists in various countries.
This reflection highlights the complex global perception of the US at this milestone.
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Two recent earthquakes in Venezuela caused damage and affected many people. Survivors are receiving help at a golf course turned into a relief center, but they say international aid is coming too slowly.
Key Facts
Venezuela experienced two earthquakes recently.
Many people were affected by these earthquakes.
A golf course has been converted into a relief center for survivors.
Survivors are receiving assistance from this relief center.
International aid is helping but is not arriving quickly enough.
The report was made by Teresa Bo from Al Jazeera.
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California has made May 17 “Bruce Lee Day” to honor the martial arts star Bruce Lee, the first Chinese American to receive this recognition in the state. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the law to celebrate Lee’s impact as a cultural bridge and role model for Asian Americans.
Key Facts
Bruce Lee was born in San Francisco in 1940 and returned there on May 17, 1959.
May 17 is now officially Bruce Lee Day in California.
Lee’s daughter, Shannon Lee, leads the Bruce Lee Foundation and supports the celebration.
The day aims to include cultural exhibits, public events, and school lessons.
Bruce Lee was a child actor and martial arts expert who moved between the US and Hong Kong.
He acted in Hollywood but faced racial typecasting and pay discrimination.
Lee became famous for martial arts films like The Big Boss and Fist of Fury in Hong Kong.
Bruce Lee died in 1973 due to an allergic reaction to medication at age 32.
His legacy remains strong, inspiring fans worldwide and influencing shows like HBO Max’s “Warrior.”
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President Donald Trump criticized Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, questioning Italy’s loyalty as an ally. In response, European leaders showed more support for Meloni, which has helped bring Europe closer together on issues like defense, trade, and foreign policy.
Key Facts
President Trump questioned Italy’s reliability as a wartime ally and accused Prime Minister Meloni of seeking his attention.
European leaders rallied around Meloni, improving her relations with countries that had previously been cautious because of her political background.
Europe is working more closely on defense, trade tariffs, and foreign policy due to challenges from Russia, China, and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Iran.
European leaders aim to act as a united group to protect Europe’s role in global affairs.
Meloni did not allow U.S. bombers to use a Sicilian base without Italy's parliament approval, causing some tensions.
Trump’s direct style and focus on dealing with European countries separately has reduced his influence over Europe’s joint actions.
The increased unity among European countries will be tested at an upcoming NATO summit in Turkey.
Even nationalist parties in Europe that once supported Trump are rethinking their positions because of his trade and foreign war policies.
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