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Row over alleged theft of donations from India's landmark Ram temple

Row over alleged theft of donations from India's landmark Ram temple

June 26, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The Ram temple in Ayodhya, India, opened in January 2024, is facing allegations that donations worth millions of rupees have been stolen. The temple trust denies these claims, and a special investigation team has been set up to look into the matter.

Key Facts

  • The Ram temple in Ayodhya attracts about 50 million visitors every year.
  • It was built on land disputed for decades, once occupied by a 16th-century mosque torn down in 1992.
  • The temple trust reported annual income of about 3.27 billion rupees (around $35 million) in 2024-25.
  • A former legislator claims over 70 million rupees (about $740,000) in donations have gone missing.
  • Petitions have been filed asking India’s Supreme Court for a police-monitored investigation.
  • The temple trust says donations are carefully counted and audited, including by bank employees.
  • Opposition political parties are demanding answers from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP party.
  • The temple's construction was a major political promise and is linked to Modi’s election victory.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Trump news at a glance: US asylum policy slated to change after supreme court ruling

Trump news at a glance: US asylum policy slated to change after supreme court ruling

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

The US Supreme Court has allowed President Trump’s administration to block some asylum seekers from entering the US at the Mexico border, changing how asylum claims are handled. The court also supported the administration’s plan to end protected status for many Haitians and Syrians living legally in the US.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to let the Trump administration stop migrants from physically entering the US before applying for asylum.
  • The ruling revived the “metering” policy that limits how many asylum seekers can enter at the border.
  • Justices disagreed on the meaning of “arrive in” the US, with the majority saying it means physically entering US territory.
  • Human rights groups say this decision breaks US and international refugee laws.
  • The Court also approved ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for hundreds of thousands of Haitians and Syrians.
  • These decisions support President Trump’s tough immigration policies.
  • Three Supreme Court justices dissented, arguing the rulings harm asylum seekers.
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Guardian US
Who will control Africa’s AI infrastructure, and at what cost?

Who will control Africa’s AI infrastructure, and at what cost?

June 26, 2026 • Technology • Al Jazeera

Summary

African countries are working to develop their own artificial intelligence (AI) systems and digital infrastructure as foreign tech companies invest heavily in the continent. Governments want more control over this technology and are creating strategies to build local AI talent and reduce reliance on outside companies, but challenges remain, including limited data center capacity and infrastructure issues.

Key Facts

  • African Union ministers met in Morocco to discuss AI strategies and investment across Africa.
  • Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and Ghana have published national AI plans to build local capabilities.
  • The Africa Declaration on Artificial Intelligence calls for more investment in African AI infrastructure and innovation.
  • Africa holds less than 1% of the world’s data center capacity despite having about 18% of the global population.
  • South Africa withdrew a draft AI policy due to concerns about some content being generated by AI tools.
  • Kenya is considering a $1 billion data center project involving Microsoft and G42, which raised concerns about energy demands.
  • Global tech companies face increasing pressure from African governments to meet local needs and regulations.
  • Reliable electricity supply across much of Africa is a major barrier to expanding data centers and digital infrastructure.
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Al Jazeera
Shia pilgrims gather in Iraq’s holy city of Karbala to mark Ashura

Shia pilgrims gather in Iraq’s holy city of Karbala to mark Ashura

June 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Shia Muslims gathered in Karbala, Iraq, to observe Ashura. This day remembers the death of Imam Hussein, grandson of the prophet Muhammad, who died in a battle in 680 AD.

Key Facts

  • The gathering took place in Karbala, a city in Iraq.
  • Shia Muslims observe Ashura each year.
  • Ashura marks the death of Imam Hussein.
  • Imam Hussein was the grandson of the prophet Muhammad.
  • He died at the Battle of Karbala in the year 680 AD.
  • The event is a significant religious commemoration for Shia Muslims.
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Al Jazeera
'It's completely out of bounds': Democrat launches Linda McMahon impeachment effort

'It's completely out of bounds': Democrat launches Linda McMahon impeachment effort

June 26, 2026 • Us • ABC News

Summary

Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, a Democrat from Oregon, introduced articles of impeachment against Education Secretary Linda McMahon for trying to dismantle the Department of Education. Bonamici says McMahon illegally moved important education programs to other agencies and lied to Congress about it.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Suzanne Bonamici filed impeachment articles against Secretary Linda McMahon.
  • The impeachment is based on McMahon’s effort to reduce the Department of Education’s role.
  • McMahon moved special education and civil rights duties to the Health and Human Services and Justice Departments.
  • Bonamici claims McMahon made illegal transfers and gave false statements to Congress.
  • McMahon responded by accusing Democrats of opposing efforts to improve education and reduce bureaucracy.
  • More than a dozen Democrats co-sponsored the impeachment resolution.
  • The Republican-controlled House and Senate make it unlikely the impeachment will succeed at this time.
  • The Department of Education says students’ rights will not be affected by the moved programs.
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ABC News
Chris Mason: The anatomy of the prime minister's downfall

Chris Mason: The anatomy of the prime minister's downfall

June 26, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Sir Keir Starmer, the United Kingdom’s prime minister, has lost the support of many members of his own party, leading to his resignation. His leadership faced several challenges, including policy reversals, internal conflicts, and public controversies.

Key Facts

  • Sir Keir Starmer served as the UK prime minister until recently.
  • He was not removed due to scandal or economic crisis, unlike recent predecessors.
  • Many members of his party lost faith in his ability to govern effectively.
  • Early challenges included cancelling and then reversing winter fuel payments for pensioners.
  • Internal disputes involved efforts to remove his chief of staff, Sue Gray.
  • He faced criticism over planned changes to the benefits system, which he eventually abandoned.
  • A controversy over appointing Lord Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington lasted many months.
  • Key aides, including his longtime assistant Morgan McSweeney and communications director Tim Allan, resigned during his tenure.
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Plan Intl: ‘Mental health impact of Venezuelan quakes can last for years’

Plan Intl: ‘Mental health impact of Venezuelan quakes can last for years’

June 26, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Plan International’s Regional Director for the Americas said that children and young people should be the main focus in responding to Venezuela’s recent earthquakes. While rescuing survivors is urgent, providing mental health support for a long time will also be very important.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela experienced earthquakes that affected many people.
  • Plan International is an organization working in the Americas.
  • Carmen Elena Aleman is Plan International’s Regional Director for the Americas.
  • She said children and young people need special attention in the earthquake response.
  • Rescue efforts are the immediate priority after the earthquakes.
  • Mental health support will be needed for years after the event.
  • The organization emphasizes focusing on both physical rescue and emotional recovery.
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Al Jazeera
California’s proposed billionaire tax: what you need to know

California’s proposed billionaire tax: what you need to know

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

California will vote in November on a new tax proposal that would charge a one-time 5% tax on residents worth over $1 billion. The tax aims to fund state programs like food assistance, healthcare, and education, but it faces opposition from Governor Newsom, some unions, and tech industry leaders who worry it could drive billionaires out of the state.

Key Facts

  • The billionaire tax proposal qualified for the November ballot after gathering more than twice the required signatures.
  • It would apply a one-time 5% tax on anyone living in California with wealth above $1 billion as of January 1, 2026.
  • The tax is supported by the SEIU-UHW union to help fund healthcare, education, and food assistance in California.
  • Senator Bernie Sanders supports the tax, seeing it as a step toward similar national taxes on the ultra-rich.
  • Governor Gavin Newsom and many Silicon Valley billionaires strongly oppose the tax, arguing it could hurt California’s economy.
  • Opposition also comes from some labor unions and healthcare groups who worry the tax does not provide steady, long-term funding.
  • California has the highest number of billionaires in the US, about 200, many of whom have increased their wealth recently through AI-related businesses.
  • Negotiations between Governor Newsom and the supporting union to withdraw the measure failed before the ballot certification.
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Guardian World Guardian US
California billionaire tax will appear on ballot after deadline for deal passes

California billionaire tax will appear on ballot after deadline for deal passes

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

California voters will decide in November whether to approve a one-time 5% tax on billionaires. The tax proposal will appear on the ballot after backers missed the deadline to withdraw it, following failed negotiations with Governor Gavin Newsom.

Key Facts

  • The California Billionaire Tax Act will be on the November ballot after supporters failed to withdraw it by the deadline.
  • The tax would charge billionaires a one-time 5% tax aimed at funding healthcare, education, and food assistance programs.
  • The proposal was put forward by the Service Employees International Union–United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW).
  • More than 1.55 million signatures were collected, over twice the amount needed to qualify for the ballot.
  • Governor Gavin Newsom and opponents argue the tax could harm California’s economy and push businesses out of the state.
  • Tech billionaires like Peter Thiel, Sergey Brin, and Chris Larsen have spent millions to oppose the tax.
  • Some labor unions and medical groups, including the California Teachers Association and Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, have also opposed the tax.
  • Opponents have introduced a separate measure to block new taxes on retirement savings and personal assets, which also qualified for the ballot.
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Guardian World
LA investigating construction at warehouse involved in massive fire

LA investigating construction at warehouse involved in massive fire

June 26, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Los Angeles city inspectors are investigating unpermitted construction at a Boyle Heights warehouse that caught fire and caused a health emergency. The warehouse, operated by Lineage and equipped with solar panels owned by Altus Power, had a similar fire in 2024, but no permits or inspections were recorded for repairs after that event.

Key Facts

  • The warehouse in Boyle Heights is a 500,000-square-foot cold storage facility operated by Lineage.
  • A large fire on June 17, 2026, burned solar panels on the warehouse roof and took eight days to put out.
  • The fire caused a shelter-in-place order and a state of emergency in Los Angeles.
  • A previous fire occurred on the same roof in August 2024 and was quickly extinguished.
  • No permits or building inspections were recorded after the 2024 fire, despite damages and repair needs.
  • The current investigation concerns alleged construction without permits or inspections on the warehouse.
  • Lineage says the fire started during tests by Altus Power, the owner of the solar array on the roof.
  • Residents near a different Lineage warehouse fire in Washington have reported respiratory health problems.
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CBS News
JD Vance says Nixon’s Watergate scandal would be ‘12-hour news story’ today

JD Vance says Nixon’s Watergate scandal would be ‘12-hour news story’ today

June 26, 2026 • Us • Guardian World

Summary

JD Vance said that if the Watergate scandal happened today, it would only get a short news attention and would not remove a president from office. He compared the efforts against President Nixon to the actions taken against President Donald Trump during his first term.

Key Facts

  • JD Vance spoke at the Richard Nixon presidential library while promoting his book Communion.
  • Vance said today’s political environment would limit Watergate coverage to about 12 hours.
  • Watergate was a 1972 scandal involving a break-in at the Democratic National Committee linked to Nixon’s re-election team.
  • Nixon resigned to avoid impeachment and removal from office.
  • Vance claimed there are parallels between efforts against Nixon and attempts to impeach President Donald Trump.
  • President Trump was impeached twice during his first term for different reasons.
  • Vance praised Nixon’s diplomatic achievements and called him a political genius.
  • Vance sees similarities between himself and Nixon, pointing out their careers and media challenges.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Experts say three recent powerful earthquakes are not related

Experts say three recent powerful earthquakes are not related

June 26, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

Three strong earthquakes struck different parts of the world within eight hours: northern California, northern Japan, and Venezuela. Experts say these earthquakes are not connected because they happened along separate fault lines far apart and the timing was a coincidence.

Key Facts

  • A 5.6-magnitude earthquake hit rural northern California on Wednesday.
  • A 7.2-magnitude earthquake occurred on Japan’s northern coast hours later.
  • Two deadly earthquakes, measuring 7.1 and 7.5, struck Venezuela in close succession.
  • All earthquakes happened along known plate boundaries where earthquakes often occur.
  • Experts say it is uncommon for earthquakes thousands of miles apart to be related.
  • The Venezuela earthquakes were likely connected because they were close to each other.
  • At least 188 people died in the Venezuelan earthquakes.
  • Large earthquakes can sometimes cause smaller ones nearby, but worldwide links are rare.
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Mamdani Favorability Rising as Establishment Democrats in Post-Election Fog

Mamdani Favorability Rising as Establishment Democrats in Post-Election Fog

June 26, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's popularity has increased after several candidates he supported won important primary elections in New York. His rise highlights a shift in the Democratic Party toward a more progressive and democratic socialist approach, especially in New York City.

Key Facts

  • Mamdani's statewide favorability rose to 45% favorable and 34% unfavorable, improving from earlier polling.
  • In New York City, his favorability reached 58% favorable and 26% unfavorable, a sharper gain than statewide.
  • The poll was conducted by Siena University from June 17-23, 2026, with 1,120 registered voters and a margin of error of ±3.6 points.
  • Candidates Mamdani endorsed won several Democratic primary races, challenging establishment-backed Democrats.
  • Three Mamdani-backed candidates won in key races, including New York City Comptroller Brad Lander and Assemblymember Claire Valdez.
  • The Democratic Socialists of America may double their seats in Congress with these new candidates.
  • Political analysts note Mamdani’s focus on affordability and empathy resonates with voters, possibly influencing the Democratic Party nationally.
  • The results represent a challenge to established Democratic leaders like House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
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Newsweek
WATCH: Stephen Miller says 'America's doors are closed fully to asylum seekers' after Supreme Court rulings

WATCH: Stephen Miller says 'America's doors are closed fully to asylum seekers' after Supreme Court rulings

June 25, 2026 • Us • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to let the Trump administration end special legal protections for migrants from Haiti, Syria, and other countries, making them more vulnerable to deportation. The court also allowed the government to restart a policy that limits the number of asylum applications accepted daily at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Key Facts

  • The Supreme Court voted 6-3 in favor of ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for migrants from Haiti, Syria, and other countries.
  • TPS currently protects about 1.3 million people from 17 countries from being deported.
  • Ending TPS exposes these migrants to deportation.
  • The Court cleared the way for the Trump administration to bring back a border policy that restricts daily asylum applications.
  • This policy limits how many people can apply for asylum each day at the U.S.-Mexico border.
  • The lower courts had previously blocked this border policy, but the Supreme Court overruled them.
  • Stephen Miller, a White House adviser, said the U.S. is now fully closing its doors to asylum seekers.
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PBS NewsHour
Why the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates this year

Why the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates this year

June 25, 2026 • Business • CBS News

Summary

The Federal Reserve's main inflation measure rose to 4.1% in May, the highest in over three years. This increase suggests the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates later this year to manage inflation.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve tracks inflation to guide its financial policies.
  • In May, the preferred inflation gauge hit 4.1%.
  • This is the highest inflation rate recorded in more than three years.
  • Higher inflation can affect the prices of goods and services.
  • Raising interest rates is a tool the Federal Reserve uses to control inflation.
  • Analysts expect the Federal Reserve to consider raising rates in response to this inflation data.
  • The goal of raising interest rates is to slow down inflation growth and stabilize the economy.
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CBS News
Sanders releases trove of internal HHS emails showing RFK Jr. pressured CDC over vaccine messaging

Sanders releases trove of internal HHS emails showing RFK Jr. pressured CDC over vaccine messaging

June 25, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Senator Bernie Sanders released emails from the Health and Human Services department. The emails suggest that HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pressured the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about how it communicated information on vaccines.

Key Facts

  • Senator Bernie Sanders shared internal emails from the Health and Human Services (HHS) department.
  • The emails involve Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is the current HHS Secretary.
  • Kennedy appears to have pressured the CDC regarding its vaccine communications.
  • The emails show Kennedy influencing the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel.
  • The pressure included instructions to limit vaccine access and change messaging.
  • The CDC is a government agency that provides health guidance on vaccines.
  • These revelations could affect public trust in government vaccine information.
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The Hill
Nonprofit lawn-mowing organization hopes to mow the White House lawn for America 250

Nonprofit lawn-mowing organization hopes to mow the White House lawn for America 250

June 25, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Rodney Smith Jr. started a nonprofit lawn care group after helping an elderly neighbor with mowing. Now, his group hopes to mow the White House lawn to celebrate America's 250th birthday.

Key Facts

  • Rodney Smith Jr. founded Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service in Alabama.
  • The nonprofit began after Smith helped an elderly neighbor cut grass.
  • The organization offers lawn care services to communities.
  • Smith’s group wants to mow the White House lawn as a tribute.
  • This effort is planned for the 250th anniversary of the United States.
  • The story was featured on CBS News by Tony Dokoupil.
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CBS News
Missing Glastonbury? There's a festival on your doorstep this weekend

Missing Glastonbury? There's a festival on your doorstep this weekend

June 25, 2026 • Business • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The Glastonbury Festival will not take place this year, leaving a gap in the summer music scene. To fill this, the "Everywhere At Once" festival is happening across the UK, with over 2,000 local performances aimed at supporting small music venues that are struggling to survive after many closures.

Key Facts

  • Glastonbury Festival is taking a year off, leaving fewer large music events this summer.
  • "Everywhere At Once" festival features over 2,000 artists performing in small venues across the UK.
  • Artists like Becky Hill and Tinie Tempah are participating, playing in intimate local settings.
  • The Music Venue Trust organized the festival to highlight the challenges small venues face.
  • Since the COVID-19 pandemic, 37% of UK music clubs have closed.
  • Many remaining venues lost money last year due to rising costs and changes in taxes.
  • Nightclubs are closing at a rate of three per month in the UK.
  • Small venues are important for artists to grow their careers and connect with fans.
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BBC Top Stories
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Trump's push for SAVE Act drives Congress into standoff

Trump's push for SAVE Act drives Congress into standoff

June 25, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump is blocking a bipartisan affordable housing bill because he wants Congress to first pass the SAVE Act, a set of voter regulation rules. This disagreement caused lawmakers to cancel planned votes.

Key Facts

  • President Trump refused to sign an affordable housing bill supported by both parties.
  • He wants Congress to pass the SAVE Act before approving the housing bill.
  • The SAVE Act involves new rules related to voting regulations.
  • Because of this standoff, lawmakers canceled votes scheduled for Friday.
  • The situation shows a conflict between housing policy and voting law priorities in Congress.
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CBS News
Apple raises iPad and MacBook prices, blaming cost of chips amid AI boom

Apple raises iPad and MacBook prices, blaming cost of chips amid AI boom

June 25, 2026 • Technology • Guardian World

Summary

Apple raised prices on its iPad and MacBook products due to higher costs for memory and storage chips. This price increase is linked to strong demand for chips from companies building artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. Apple has not yet raised iPhone prices but may do so soon.

Key Facts

  • Apple increased the starting price of its lowest-cost MacBook, the Neo, from $599 to $699.
  • Prices for a MacBook Air with 512GB storage rose by $200, and a MacBook Pro with 1TB went up by $300.
  • Other Apple products like the HomePod smart speaker and Apple TV also saw price increases.
  • The price of key computer memory chips rose by nearly 100% in early 2026 and is expected to increase by 58% to 63% this quarter.
  • The rise in chip prices is driven by AI data center demand, with companies like Nvidia signing long-term contracts with chip makers.
  • Apple has tried to protect customers from these cost increases but could no longer do so.
  • Analysts predict iPhone prices will rise soon and say Apple timed its announcement ahead of the fall iPhone launch.
  • The high chip prices are expected to reduce smartphone and PC sales worldwide this year, with smartphone sales predicted to drop nearly 14% and PC sales 11.3%.
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