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Colombia's escalating, brutal internal conflict is defining its presidential election

June 20, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Colombia’s presidential election is strongly influenced by growing violence linked to armed groups involved in drug trafficking and illegal mining. The two main candidates have very different plans: one supports negotiating peace deals, while the other wants a strict military approach.

Key Facts

Colombia has faced over 60 years of conflict involving armed groups, the state, and drug cartels, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths.
Illegal armed groups like FARC dissidents, ELN, and Clan del Golfo have increased their numbers and expanded control in rural areas.
Violence has forced many people to flee their homes, with some areas experiencing bombings and threats.
Left-wing senator Iván Cepeda supports negotiations and peace talks based on the 2016 FARC peace deal but admits changes are needed.
Conservative candidate Abelardo de la Espriella wants to build big prisons and use strong military actions to stop armed groups, rejecting further negotiations.
De la Espriella is endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump and is also a U.S. citizen.
Forced displacement in Colombia surged by 300% between 2024 and 2025, reaching levels not seen in two decades.
Critics say the current peace strategy allows armed groups to grow, while supporters believe it reduces overall loss of life.

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BBC Top Stories BBC World

Australia news live: arrival of H5N1 bird flu a ‘genuine wildlife emergency’, experts say; fuel excise rebate extended for extra month

June 20, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

The Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has extended a fuel tax cut at a lower rate to help reduce petrol prices during ongoing global oil market challenges. Meanwhile, experts warn that the arrival of the H5N1 bird flu virus on the mainland is a serious threat to wildlife.

Key Facts

The fuel tax excise cut of 32 cents per litre will be reduced to 16 cents per litre starting 1 July and lasting until 2 August.
The government will also lower the vehicle road user charge by 16 cents per litre during the same period to help truck drivers.
Prime Minister Albanese highlighted that fuel prices remain a burden despite recent price drops.
Extension of the fuel tax relief aims to save around $11 on a 65-litre petrol tank in July.
The government is open to further extending cost-of-living relief due to ongoing global oil market instability influenced by geopolitical tensions.
Wildlife experts consider the arrival of H5N1 bird flu in Australia’s mainland a genuine emergency for native animals.
Melbourne tram passengers can now pay fares using contactless payments like bank cards, smartphones, or smartwatches.
Prime Minister Albanese defended his government’s tax and housing policies against criticism from Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party.

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Guardian World

U.S. and Iran to talk Sunday in Switzerland as Tehran says it closed Strait of Hormuz again

June 20, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

U.S. and Iranian negotiators are meeting in Switzerland to discuss details of an interim agreement aimed at stopping the war. Iran said it closed the Strait of Hormuz due to fighting in Lebanon, while President Trump warned of U.S. tolls on the waterway if a final deal is not reached soon.

Key Facts

Talks between the U.S. and Iran are taking place in Switzerland to finalize details of a 60-day interim agreement to halt conflict.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, citing U.S. failure to stop fighting in Lebanon.
President Donald Trump threatened to impose tolls on the Strait of Hormuz if no full deal with Iran is made in 60 days.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance and top negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are in Switzerland for the talks.
Iran’s delegation includes parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and foreign minister Abbas Araghchi.
The agreement allows Iran to freely sell its oil and unfreeze billions of dollars in assets.
The U.S. disputes Iran’s claim about closing the Strait of Hormuz, saying traffic continues normally.
Fighting in Lebanon recently killed at least 16 people, complicating peace efforts.

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PBS NewsHour

Three men dead after west London building fire

June 20, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

Three men died after a fire broke out in a single-story building in west London on Saturday evening. Firefighters rescued the men, but two died at the scene and one later died in the hospital. Fire crews controlled the fire within a few hours, and the cause is under investigation.

Key Facts

The fire happened in New Zealand Way, White City, west London.
The London Fire Brigade received reports of the fire at 6:52 pm on Saturday.
Three men were rescued from the building and treated on site by paramedics.
Two men died at the scene; the third died later in hospital.
About 100 firefighters and 15 fire engines responded to the fire.
The fire involved a single-story pavilion building with over half of it damaged.
The fire was under control by 9:25 pm the same evening.
The cause of the fire is being investigated by fire officers and the Metropolitan Police.

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Guardian World

King Charles to publish personal tax bill in first for UK head of state

June 20, 2026 • World • Guardian World

Summary

King Charles will be the first British monarch to publicly share his personal tax details as part of efforts to make royal finances more open. The king’s tax information for 2024-25 will be released soon, with details for 2025-26 to follow after auditing.

Key Facts

King Charles will publish his personal tax bill for the 2024-25 financial year next week.
This is the first time a UK monarch has made their personal tax details public.
The king previously shared his tax information when he was Prince of Wales.
His income comes from private estates like Balmoral and Sandringham, investments, and the Duchy of Lancaster, which provided £26.8 million in 2024-25.
King Charles voluntarily pays income tax and capital gains tax on his private income and assets.
Prince William earns income from the Duchy of Cornwall estate but does not disclose the exact tax he pays.
Additional reports on royal finances, including the sovereign grant and Duchy of Lancaster accounts, will also be published soon.
Buckingham Palace says these steps aim to improve transparency and public understanding of royal money.

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Guardian World

Trump says several arrested for Reflecting Pool alleged vandalism

June 20, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump said several people have been arrested for allegedly damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after algae growth and paint problems appeared. A man was also detained for touching the pool while investigating the peeling surface installed by the President. Authorities are working to fix the damage and clear the algae.

Key Facts

The United States Park Police arrested multiple people for vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, according to President Trump.
The Reflecting Pool recently developed algae that turned the water fluorescent green and paint started peeling from its surface.
David Hearn, a 67-year-old man, was detained for five hours after touching the pool to examine the new coating.
President Trump ordered the installation of a new coating on the pool as part of spring cleaning ahead of the U.S. 250th birthday.
Workers have been applying hydrogen peroxide to remove the algae, which is reported to be 75% gone.
President Trump suggested that vandals used chemicals to harm the Reflecting Pool and referenced a related incident of numbers etched into the National Mall grass.
Authorities are investigating possible threats related to vandalism and the etched numbers found on the National Mall.
The National Park Service has not yet responded to requests for comment on the arrests or vandalism.

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CBS News

Italian tourist killed in massive fire at Dominican Republic luxury beach resort

June 20, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A large fire destroyed most of the Viva Dominicus Beach resort in the Dominican Republic, forcing nearly 1,700 tourists to evacuate. One Italian tourist died, and authorities are helping visitors replace lost passports and return home.

Key Facts

The fire happened at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham resort in Bayahibe.
Around 1,700 tourists were evacuated from the resort.
An Italian woman died in the fire; investigators are looking into the cause.
Many tourists lost their passports and identity documents in the fire.
Hotel and police officials are helping guests get new reports and documents online.
Displaced tourists were moved to hotels in Punta Cana and Bayahibe.
The fire spread quickly due to wind and the resort having a thatch roof.
Tourism activities in the area continued as normal after the fire.

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PBS NewsHour

Vance travels to Switzerland for nuclear talks with Iran

June 20, 2026 • World • Axios

Summary

Vice President Vance traveled to Switzerland to begin direct nuclear talks with Iran, the first since April 2025. The negotiations aim to address nuclear inspections and a ceasefire in Lebanon, with international mediators attending.

Key Facts

The talks are happening at the Burgenstock ski resort in Switzerland.
This is the first direct U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiation since April 2025.
The negotiations are expected to last a couple of days.
Iran claims it closed the Strait of Hormuz over Israel-Lebanon ceasefire issues.
U.S. wants Iran to invite UN inspectors to visit nuclear sites damaged by past bombings.
The U.S. may allow Iran access to $6 billion in frozen funds for humanitarian use.
Pakistan and Qatar leaders, plus Pakistan’s top general, are mediators in the talks.
The International Atomic Energy Agency director will also take part in the talks.

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Axios

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer Expected to Resign Monday: Report

June 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reported to be preparing to resign soon, following pressure from political allies and party members. He plans to announce a timeline for his departure, which could lead to a leadership contest or temporary replacement.

Key Facts

Keir Starmer might resign as British Prime Minister as early as Monday.
He has spoken with senior Cabinet members, party donors, advisers, and trade union leaders.
Starmer is concerned about his ability to keep authority in the Labour Party.
Labour lost over 1,100 council seats recently, increasing calls for his resignation.
The resignation would be orderly to avoid disrupting the government's work.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is seen as a possible successor.
Burnham has criticized U.S.-style polarized politics and President Trump’s impact on international stability.
Labour’s rules require a leadership contest if Starmer leaves, with possible temporary leadership in the short term.

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Newsweek

Israeli strikes kill six people in Gaza including Al Jazeera cameraman, officials say

June 20, 2026 • World • BBC World

Summary

Israeli air strikes in Gaza killed six people, including an Al Jazeera cameraman and at least one child, according to health officials. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the cameraman was involved with Hamas, while Al Jazeera condemned the killing and said it violated international laws.

Key Facts

Six people died in Israeli strikes in Gaza, including Al Jazeera cameraman Ahmed Wishah.
The IDF accused Wishah of being part of Hamas’s military wing and involved in sniper operations.
Two others were killed with Wishah in a strike in the Bureij refugee camp; the IDF also linked them to Hamas.
Four family members, including children, were killed in a separate strike in Gaza City’s Sabra neighborhood.
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect last October but both sides have accused each other of violating it.
Since the ceasefire, over 1,000 people have been killed by Israeli military actions, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
The ceasefire promised humanitarian aid and a new governance structure for Gaza, but many needs remain unmet.
Israel’s Prime Minister said Israel had expanded military control over 70% of Gaza’s territory since May 2024.

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BBC World BBC Top Stories

Trump vows Iran will not charge Strait of Hormuz tolls, but says US might

June 20, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump said there will be no tolls for passing through the Strait of Hormuz unless the United States collects them. This statement comes after a ceasefire deal meant to keep the strait open for 60 days, but Iran says it has closed the strait again, accusing the US of breaking the agreement.

Key Facts

President Trump announced no tolls will be charged for 60 days in the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire.
After 60 days, tolls may be charged only if imposed by the United States.
The ceasefire deal required Iran to keep the strait open and not charge fees.
Iran claims the US broke the deal and says it has closed the strait.
US Central Command denies the strait is closed and says traffic continues.
The Strait of Hormuz is important for the global supply of oil, gas, and fertilizer.
President Trump previously imposed a US naval blockade on Iran’s ports, but lifted it under the ceasefire.
The ceasefire deal is temporary and aims to start talks on bigger issues like Iran’s nuclear program.

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Al Jazeera

Trump tries to blame Reflecting Pool woes on vandalism, without offering substantiation

June 20, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

President Donald Trump said that federal authorities arrested several people for vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after a $14-million renovation project faced problems. The pool’s new blue coating peeled off and algae grew, and Trump blamed vandalism without providing proof.

Key Facts

President Trump launched a $14-million renovation of the Reflecting Pool for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The pool was painted blue to improve its look but quickly turned green from algae.
Chemicals were used to kill the algae, but the blue paint on the bottom started peeling.
Trump claimed vandalism damaged the pool and said people were arrested, but gave no specific proof.
One arrested man, David Hearn, said he only touched the paint briefly out of curiosity and was detained for five hours.
Park and law enforcement agencies did not publicly confirm details about vandalism or arrests.
Trump compared the alleged vandalism to past damage done to the National Mall’s grass.
The cause of algae and paint peeling remains unclear beyond Trump’s accusations.

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AP News

Vance leaves for Switzerland with Strait of Hormuz status unclear

June 20, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

Vice President JD Vance traveled to Switzerland to join technical talks between the United States and Iran. These talks aim to create a temporary ceasefire, stop fighting permanently, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and start nuclear talks.

Key Facts

Vice President JD Vance left for Switzerland on Saturday.
He is attending technical-level talks between the U.S. and Iran.
The goal is to reach an interim ceasefire agreement to end fighting.
The talks also aim to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, an important shipping route.
These discussions will begin nuclear negotiations between the two countries.
The meeting was supposed to start on Friday but was delayed due to increased tensions.

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The Hill

Sunday shows preview: Iran’s Strait of Hormuz closure threatens Trump MOU ahead of planned Switzerland peace talks

June 20, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

Vice President Vance traveled to Switzerland to take part in talks with Iran, alongside envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. These talks aim to finalize a nuclear deal and keep the Strait of Hormuz open, which is vital for global trade.

Key Facts

Vice President Vance left for Switzerland on Saturday evening.
He is joined by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
The talks with Iran are technical and focused on reaching a nuclear agreement.
The U.S. and Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz this week.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for international shipping and trade.
The reopening helps secure safe passage for commercial ships.
These developments occur ahead of planned peace talks in Switzerland.
The situation affects agreements connected to President Donald Trump’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

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The Hill

Iran says closed Strait of Hormuz as US deal hits obstacle ahead of Swiss talks

June 20, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

Iran said it closed the Strait of Hormuz because of Israel’s military actions in Lebanon and warned that talks with the U.S. in Switzerland may not succeed if the fighting continues. President Donald Trump responded by threatening to charge fees on ships passing through the strait if no final deal with Iran is reached within 60 days.

Key Facts

Iran announced it closed the Strait of Hormuz due to Israel’s attacks in Lebanon.
Iran warned that upcoming talks with the U.S. will likely fail unless the fighting stops.
President Trump said the U.S. may impose tolls on ships passing through the strait if no deal is made in 60 days.
The U.S. disputed Iran’s claim, saying it does not control the strait and traffic continues normally.
About 55 merchant ships carrying over 17 million barrels of oil passed through the strait on the day of the announcement.
Negotiators from Iran and the U.S., along with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar, are preparing for talks in Switzerland.
The interim deal allows Iran to sell oil freely and calls for billions of dollars of Iranian assets to be unfrozen.
Iran demands Israel agree to a public ceasefire in Lebanon and end military operations before reopening the strait.

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France24

King Charles to reveal personal tax bill for first time as monarch

June 20, 2026 • World • BBC Top Stories

Summary

King Charles will publish his personal tax payments for the first time as monarch, showing how much tax he pays on his income and private estates. This move is part of a plan to make royal finances more open and clear to the public.

Key Facts

King Charles will share his personal tax bill for the year 2024-25.
The tax will include income from the Duchy of Lancaster, private estates like Sandringham and Balmoral, and other investments.
Monarchs are not legally required to pay income tax but King Charles does so voluntarily.
This is the first time a British monarch in modern history has published their personal tax payments.
The decision is part of a larger goal to make the royal finances more transparent.
The Sovereign Grant, public funding for the Royal Household, has increased to £137.9 million due to Buckingham Palace renovations.
Parliament will review the Sovereign Grant, and an inquiry will examine royal property and leases following recent royal scandals.
Rent for some royal family members living in royal palaces is paid from the King’s private income.

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BBC Top Stories

Black Democrats push back on Wasserman Schultz’s bid in Florida’s 20th District

June 20, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Some Black Democrats are unhappy that Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz is running for Congress in a South Florida district with many Black voters. This disagreement has caused a conflict within the Democratic Party that is likely to be an important issue during the upcoming election season.

Key Facts

Debbie Wasserman Schultz is a Democratic Representative from Florida.
She has been serving in Congress since 2005.
Wasserman Schultz decided to run in Florida’s 20th Congressional District.
This district has a large number of Black voters.
Some Black Democrats are upset about her decision to run there.
The disagreement is causing conflict within the Democratic Party.
This conflict is expected to be a key part of the campaign season.
The article focuses on the political dynamics in a U.S. congressional district.

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The Hill

Spain PM’s Wife Faces Corruption Trial, Barred From Leaving Country

June 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

Begoña Gómez, wife of Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has been ordered to stand trial on charges of corruption and influence-peddling. She must surrender her passport, cannot leave Spain, and must regularly report to the court while awaiting trial.

Key Facts

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado ruled there is enough evidence to bring Gómez to trial for alleged corruption linked to her professional and academic work.
Gómez denies any wrongdoing and claims her work was independent of her husband’s political role.
She is accused of influencing government contracts, misusing public funds for a consultant, and improper use of software at a public university.
The investigation began after a complaint from Manos Limpias, an anti-corruption group connected to the political right.
Gómez must give up her passport, is banned from leaving Spain, and must regularly report to the court.
No trial date has been set yet, and Gómez plans to appeal the precautionary measures.
The case also involves a businessman who benefited from the contracts and the consultant who worked for Gómez.
This case adds pressure on Prime Minister Sánchez’s government, which faces other ongoing corruption investigations involving senior officials.

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Newsweek

Trump Rules Out Iran Hormuz Tolls, Says US Would Be Entitled Instead

June 20, 2026 • World • Newsweek

Summary

President Donald Trump said Iran cannot charge ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz during or after a 60-day ceasefire period. He added the U.S. might impose fees instead if talks fail. The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil shipments and has become a focus of tensions between the two countries.

Key Facts

The Strait of Hormuz is important for transporting much of the world’s oil and gas by ship.
A recent ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran includes a 60-day period with no tolls charged for passing through the strait.
Iran has said it may charge fees for ship passage after the ceasefire ends, calling them service fees for navigation and security.
President Trump insists the passage should remain free and that only the U.S. could charge fees if there is no final agreement.
Iran has set up a regulatory agency to manage ship movements and potential fees.
Oman, a Gulf country near the strait, is involved in talks on how to manage shipping after the ceasefire.
Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are scheduled to start soon, focusing on sanctions, security, and shipping through the strait.
There have been conflicting claims about whether the strait has been closed again, raising tensions before talks begin.

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Newsweek

Trump says US will begin charging tolls in Strait of Hormuz if final Iran deal not reached in 60 days

June 20, 2026 • World • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump said the U.S. will start charging tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz if a final deal with Iran is not reached in 60 days. This area is an important oil route, and both the U.S. and Iran have different views on who controls it.

Key Facts

President Trump announced a 60-day deadline for a deal with Iran.
If no deal is made, the U.S. will charge tolls on ships using the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key passage for global oil shipments.
U.S. and Iranian officials disagree on who controls the strait.
The announcement was made on President Trump’s Truth Social account.
The tolls would affect ships passing through this narrow waterway.

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The Hill

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