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Where do Iran’s political factions stand on the US peace deal?

Where do Iran’s political factions stand on the US peace deal?

Summary

Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has expressed doubts about an interim peace deal between Iran and the United States, signed by Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and President Donald Trump. Hardline groups in Iran oppose the deal, fearing war with the US may restart, while all political groups in Israel reject the deal and support military action against Iran.

Key Facts

  • Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s new supreme leader, disagrees with the peace deal in principle but allowed it with conditions.
  • President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the deal with the US, under mediation by Pakistan and Qatar.
  • Khamenei demanded that at least three-quarters of the security council members approve the deal before proceeding.
  • The Iranian Supreme National Security Council said it would negotiate with “total distrust” towards the US and prepare to retaliate if the US violates the deal.
  • Hardline political groups in Iran oppose any concessions and criticize Iranian leaders involved in the deal.
  • Israeli political factions unanimously reject the deal and want military action against Iran.
  • Iranian officials stressed that upcoming talks will not mean accepting demands seen as excessive by Iran.
  • The deal is seen as a first step in a difficult negotiation process amid Iran’s economic challenges worsened by war tensions.
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Trump administration says it’s considering ‘partial closure’ of Kennedy Center despite judge’s order

Trump administration says it’s considering ‘partial closure’ of Kennedy Center despite judge’s order

Summary

The Trump administration stated it is thinking about partially closing the Kennedy Center even though a judge ordered that the center stay open. A federal judge had previously ruled that the Kennedy Center’s board could not fully close the performing arts venue.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration filed a court document about possibly closing part of the Kennedy Center.
  • A judge had ruled that the Kennedy Center must remain open and cannot fully shut down.
  • The Kennedy Center is a well-known place for arts performances.
  • The board of the Kennedy Center had voted to close the center at some point.
  • The court ruling blocked the full closure decided by the board.
  • The administration is still considering a “partial closure” despite this ruling.
  • The news came in late Friday through a legal filing.
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In Nepal’s highlands, climate change threatens Tibet’s Bon faith

In Nepal’s highlands, climate change threatens Tibet’s Bon faith

Summary

A remote village in Nepal called Lubra, which follows the ancient Tibetan Bon religion, is facing damage from worsening floods caused by climate change. These floods have forced families to leave their homes and are damaging farmland and crops that the village depends on.

Key Facts

  • Lubra is a small Himalayan village in northwest Nepal with 16 families.
  • The village follows Bon, an ancient religion from Tibet.
  • The village was founded generations ago, with spiritual and cultural traditions that have lasted for centuries.
  • Climate change has caused worse flooding during the monsoon season over the past decade.
  • Four families have left their homes because of these floods.
  • Flooding has damaged important farmland and apple orchards, which provide income and food.
  • The damage threatens both the homes and the unique culture of the village.
  • The village landscape and buildings show clear signs of erosion and flood damage.
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UK condemns Israeli minister over inflammatory Lebanon remarks

UK condemns Israeli minister over inflammatory Lebanon remarks

Summary

The British Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, criticized Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for his statement saying "all of Lebanon must burn" after Israeli soldiers died in a Hezbollah attack. The remarks have sparked strong reactions, including condemnation from Iran and further aggressive statements from other Israeli officials about Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said "all of Lebanon must burn" following the death of four Israeli soldiers in a Hezbollah attack.
  • British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called Ben-Gvir’s comments "horrendous and abhorrent."
  • Ben-Gvir also rejected a peace deal between the US and Iran and demanded Israel not give up territory captured in fighting.
  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described Ben-Gvir’s remarks as dangerous and a threat to everyone.
  • Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said displaced people from southern Lebanon will never be allowed to return home.
  • Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich urged aggressive military action, using similar language to earlier comments about Gaza.
  • Since Israel’s military action against Hezbollah began in March 2026, more than 1.2 million people in Lebanon have been displaced and over 1,200 killed.
  • The conflict involves deep tensions between Israel, Lebanon (especially Hezbollah), Iran, and international reactions.
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US treasury chief urged Trump not to host ‘Mr Bean on crack’ Zelenskyy, book says

US treasury chief urged Trump not to host ‘Mr Bean on crack’ Zelenskyy, book says

Summary

Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, advised President Trump not to host Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the White House, using harsh and disrespectful language about him. Despite warnings, the meeting happened and was described as very tense, with Trump and others criticizing Zelenskyy. The book "Regime Change" shares these details and reports on failed talks about a minerals deal between the US and Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Scott Bessent called Zelenskyy offensive names, including "Mr Bean on crack" and “special-needs child.”
  • Bessent recommended President Trump not to let Zelenskyy into the White House before signing a minerals deal.
  • The White House meeting on February 28, 2025, was difficult, with Trump and JD Vance criticizing Zelenskyy.
  • Zelenskyy was advised (unsuccessfully) to wear a suit to the meeting.
  • Bessent had heated talks with Zelenskyy during a visit to Kyiv before the meeting.
  • Negotiations over the minerals deal were also problematic, with disagreements among US officials.
  • JD Vance’s wife helped rewrite parts of the Ukrainian minerals deal, calling it “awful.”
  • Bessent compared President Trump to George Soros, a well-known investor and Democratic donor.
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Louisiana pastor sentenced to 80 years for sexually molesting two boys

Louisiana pastor sentenced to 80 years for sexually molesting two boys

Summary

A pastor in suburban New Orleans was sentenced to 80 years in prison for sexually abusing two boys. This is his third conviction for crimes involving minors. The court heard powerful testimony from a survivor’s mother about the betrayal and harm caused by the pastor.

Key Facts

  • Terry Reed was sentenced to 80 years in prison for sexually molesting two boys.
  • This is his third time being convicted of sexual abuse of minors.
  • Prosecutors said Reed used his role as a pastor and biblical teachings to manipulate the boys.
  • Reed had prior guilty pleas in 1997 and 2017 related to indecent behavior with juveniles.
  • The sentencing judge gave the maximum prison time after hearing from a victim’s mother.
  • The mother trusted Reed to help her son but was deeply hurt by his abuse.
  • In 2002, two boys died by electrocution in a hot tub at Reed’s home; the cause was never fully determined.
  • The New Orleans area has seen multiple cases of sexual abuse by religious leaders in recent decades.
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Mankind must not sacrifice human dignity at the altar of AI

Mankind must not sacrifice human dignity at the altar of AI

Summary

The article warns against treating people based on their economic worth. It says that deciding who deserves work and who should be excluded can lead to social and political problems.

Key Facts

  • Some ways of talking about people are unacceptable.
  • Sorting people by their economic value is one such unacceptable way.
  • This sorting divides people into those who deserve work and those who do not.
  • Societies that allow this division risk social conflict.
  • It also increases the chance of political problems.
  • Human dignity should not be sacrificed for the sake of artificial intelligence or economic calculations.
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NGOs in Lebanon denounce Israeli attacks on medics amid ceasefire

NGOs in Lebanon denounce Israeli attacks on medics amid ceasefire

Summary

NGOs in Lebanon have reported that Israeli attacks have targeted medical workers during a ceasefire period. The conflict began when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, leading to many deaths and large-scale displacement in Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • Hezbollah started attacking Israel on March 2nd as revenge for Iran’s leader being killed.
  • Israel has responded with military attacks killing over 3,900 people in Lebanon.
  • Around 20% of Lebanon’s population has been forced to leave their homes.
  • Medical workers have been hit by Israeli strikes even during a declared ceasefire.
  • The situation for people in Lebanon is very difficult with limited access to help.
  • Emergency health services are being provided by groups like Doctors Without Borders.
  • Talks for peace between the US and Iran are ongoing but have faced delays.
  • Both Hezbollah and Israel have at times agreed to a truce but fighting continues.
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Trump Doubles Down in Photo Dispute With Italy's Meloni—'Over and Over'

Trump Doubles Down in Photo Dispute With Italy's Meloni—'Over and Over'

Summary

President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni are involved in a disagreement about a photo taken at the G7 summit. Italy’s foreign minister canceled a planned U.S. visit after Trump said Meloni repeatedly asked for a photo, which she denied.

Key Facts

  • President Trump claimed Meloni asked many times for a photo with him at the G7 meeting in France.
  • Prime Minister Meloni denied this claim and said neither she nor Italy ever begged for anything.
  • Italy’s foreign minister canceled a planned trip to the United States because of Trump’s comments about Meloni.
  • Trump criticized Meloni’s popularity in Italy and linked it to Italy’s refusal to support U.S. and Israel in a conflict with Iran.
  • Trump also said Italy did not allow the U.S. to use its airbases, causing logistical problems during the conflict.
  • He suggested Meloni now wants to be friends to improve her political standing, but he rejected this.
  • The situation has created diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Italy.
  • The story is ongoing and more information may come out later.
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Europe swelters in gruelling heatwave, authorities ramp up warnings

Europe swelters in gruelling heatwave, authorities ramp up warnings

Summary

A strong heatwave is affecting many parts of Europe, causing very high temperatures up to 40°C (105°F). Governments in countries like France, Germany, and Italy have issued warnings and held emergency meetings to deal with the extreme heat.

Key Facts

  • The heatwave is impacting much of Europe.
  • Temperatures have reached record highs, up to 40°C (105°F).
  • France has held emergency meetings to respond to the heatwave.
  • Germany has issued warnings across the entire country.
  • Italy is experiencing pressure on both residents and tourists due to the heat.
  • Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to protect public health.
  • The heatwave is causing concern for daily life and safety in affected countries.
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Poland strips Zelensky of top state honour over WWII dispute

Poland strips Zelensky of top state honour over WWII dispute

Summary

Poland has taken back its highest state honour from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This happened after Ukraine named a military unit after a World War II nationalist group that killed Polish civilians.

Key Facts

  • Poland withdrew its top state award from President Zelensky.
  • The reason is Ukraine naming a unit after a group involved in killing Polish civilians during WWII.
  • The nationalist group’s actions caused pain between Poland and Ukraine.
  • Poland’s decision may cause a serious diplomatic conflict between the two countries.
  • This happened shortly before a major conference on rebuilding Ukraine in the Polish city of Gdańsk.
  • The withdrawal was announced by President Karol Nawrocki of Poland.
  • The conflict relates to historical events and current political decisions.
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African fashion takes centre stage at France's Galerie Lafayette

African fashion takes centre stage at France's Galerie Lafayette

Summary

African fashion is gaining recognition as a distinct style with its own brands and goals. The ‘Africa Now’ event at Paris’ Galeries Lafayette highlighted this change, featuring key people like Senegalese designer Adama N'Diaye.

Key Facts

  • African fashion is moving beyond just inspiring big international brands.
  • It now creates its own styles, brands, and ambitions.
  • Paris’ Galeries Lafayette held an event called ‘Africa Now’ to showcase this.
  • Senegalese designer Adama N'Diaye, founder of Adama Paris, was a featured speaker.
  • The event shows the growing importance of African fashion in the global scene.
  • This shift reflects a broader cultural recognition of Africa’s creative impact.
  • The event took place in Paris, France.
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Top Ukrainian officials return Polish awards in WWII dispute

Top Ukrainian officials return Polish awards in WWII dispute

Summary

Top Ukrainian officials decided to return awards they received from Poland after Ukrainian President Zelenskyy was stripped of Poland’s highest honour. The dispute grew from Zelenskyy’s naming of a military unit after a Ukrainian group accused of killing Polish people during World War II.

Key Facts

  • President Zelenskyy named a military unit the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group active in the 1940s and 1950s.
  • The UPA is accused by many in Poland of committing mass killings of Polish citizens during World War II.
  • In response, Polish President Karol Nawrocki removed the Order of the White Eagle award from President Zelenskyy.
  • Ukrainian officials, including Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, ambassador to Poland, and foreign minister, said they will return Polish awards given to them.
  • Ukrainian officials criticized Poland’s decision, saying it helps Russia’s interests and harms Ukraine.
  • Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for calming tensions between the two countries.
  • The UPA fought both Nazi Germany and Soviet forces but is a controversial group because of violent conflicts with Polish underground forces.
  • Poland continues to support Ukraine in its conflict against Russia despite the dispute.
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El Niño Could Trigger 'Mini-Dust Bowl' Just as Data Centers Boom

El Niño Could Trigger 'Mini-Dust Bowl' Just as Data Centers Boom

Summary

Meteorologists warn that the El Niño weather pattern could cause longer and worse droughts in the U.S., especially in the Plains region. This comes at a time when water use is rising due to more data centers being built, which use large amounts of water.

Key Facts

  • El Niño is a natural climate cycle that affects ocean and weather patterns every two to seven years.
  • It usually brings warmer weather to northern U.S. winters, wetter conditions in the south, and drier weather in the Midwest.
  • Current drought conditions affect nearly half of the U.S., including Nevada, Idaho, Colorado, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
  • Data centers use millions of gallons of water daily and are growing rapidly in number across the country.
  • There is a 70% chance this El Niño will become a “Super El Niño,” which can cause long-lasting drought.
  • Past strong El Niños have triggered multi-year droughts in parts of the U.S. Plains.
  • El Niño conditions are expected to peak in the winter of 2026–27.
  • The current dryness across the U.S. is worse than in almost 95% of historical records.
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Congress wonders as the Iran war draws to a close: Was it worth it?

Congress wonders as the Iran war draws to a close: Was it worth it?

Summary

Congress is debating whether the nearly four-month war with Iran ordered by President Donald Trump was worthwhile. While some senators criticize the conflict and its outcomes, others believe it improved U.S. safety. Lawmakers now face challenges including addressing the war's impact, resupplying military resources, and maintaining a fragile ceasefire.

Key Facts

  • Congress never officially authorized the war with Iran but did not fully oppose it.
  • The conflict lasted nearly four months under President Donald Trump’s leadership.
  • Senators have mixed views: some call the war a failure, while others say it increased U.S. safety.
  • The U.S. spent billions and lost lives during the war.
  • The war affected national security and changed political relations in the Middle East.
  • Congress is responsible for explaining the war’s outcomes to the public.
  • The Pentagon has requested $1.5 trillion for defense funding this year, partly due to the war’s impact.
  • Some senators want to limit Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s spending until investigations and reports, including one on a strike at an Iranian school, are completed.
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Top banker tried to sway Pope Leo XIV on rare earth mining

Top banker tried to sway Pope Leo XIV on rare earth mining

Summary

The President of the Inter-American Development Bank, Ilan Goldfajn, met with Pope Leo XIV to discuss the benefits of rare earth mining in Latin America. He emphasized the importance of doing mining with good labor, environmental, and governance standards to help local communities and support new technology industries.

Key Facts

  • Ilan Goldfajn is the head of the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB).
  • He met privately with Pope Leo XIV to talk about rare earth mining opportunities.
  • The Vatican has long opposed multinational mining companies harming Indigenous peoples and the environment in Latin America.
  • Rare earth minerals are important for technologies like smartphones, electric cars, and jet engines.
  • The IADB has about $4 billion planned for mining projects in Chile, Argentina, and Brazil, mostly with private partners.
  • Pope Leo XIV spent 20 years as a missionary in Peru, where he saw the impact of mining on local communities.
  • Earlier in 2026, Pope Leo met with mining executives but shortly after, the Vatican promoted divestment from mining companies.
  • The discussion highlights the challenge of balancing mining development with protecting Indigenous rights and the environment.
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Why Tunisia’s renewable energy strategy is facing resistance

Why Tunisia’s renewable energy strategy is facing resistance

Summary

Tunisia faces an energy shortage that costs the country billions of dollars yearly. The government recently approved five renewable energy projects run by foreign companies, but critics say this plan may increase Tunisia's dependence on outside firms and reduce public benefits.

Key Facts

  • Tunisia has an energy deficit costing about $3.8 billion, nearly half its trade deficit.
  • The deficit grows yearly because of higher energy use and lack of energy independence.
  • The government approved five renewable energy projects, mainly solar plants, to be managed by foreign companies.
  • These projects have a combined capacity of about 598 megawatts and involve $560 million in investments.
  • Critics say the national utility will only run the electricity grid, while foreign firms produce and profit from energy.
  • Public funds will cover infrastructure costs, while profits and carbon credits could go to the foreign companies.
  • Opponents warn there will be little job creation, technology sharing, or local benefits.
  • Despite public protests and strikes, parliament approved the projects, and some government officials were fired amid public anger.
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An Israeli court has convicted seven men over the 2021 lynching of Sa’id Mo

An Israeli court has convicted seven men over the 2021 lynching of Sa’id Mo

Summary

An Israeli court has found seven men guilty for their role in the 2021 lynching of Sa’id Moussa. Moussa was taken from his car and severely beaten during riots in May 2021. The court case lasted five years.

Key Facts

  • Seven men were convicted for the lynching of Sa’id Moussa.
  • The attack happened during riots in May 2021.
  • Sa’id Moussa was pulled from his car before being beaten unconscious.
  • The trial took five years to complete.
  • The incident took place in Israel.
  • The court’s decision marks the end of a long legal process.
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Trump says Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, defends response to algae bloom

Trump says Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized, defends response to algae bloom

Summary

President Donald Trump said the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was vandalized shortly after a costly renovation project finished. There were also reports of algae growth and peeling paint at the site between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.

Key Facts

  • The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation.
  • Just two weeks after completion, issues like an algae bloom and peeling paint appeared.
  • President Trump described the damage as vandalism.
  • The Reflecting Pool is located between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.
  • The president publicly addressed these problems on a Friday evening.
  • Algae bloom means a rapid increase of algae, which can harm water quality and appearance.
  • The Reflecting Pool is a significant and symbolic landmark in Washington, D.C.
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Strange symptom leads to man's Stage IV cancer diagnosis

Strange symptom leads to man's Stage IV cancer diagnosis

Summary

Joe Gillette noticed double vision one morning, which led to tests revealing Stage IV kidney cancer that had spread to multiple organs. After aggressive treatment including immunotherapy, radiation, brain surgery, and kidney tumor removal, his cancer is now under control with ongoing care.

Key Facts

  • Joe Gillette first noticed double vision, prompting a doctor visit and scans.
  • Tests showed Stage IV kidney cancer with tumors in his brain, lungs, bones, lymph nodes, stomach, and pancreas.
  • Gillette had no symptoms before the vision problem; COVID-19 infection indirectly helped catch the cancer early.
  • Treatment included immunotherapy, brain surgery, radiation, and a long medically induced coma for recovery.
  • After therapy, Gillette's tumors shrank, and he had successful surgery to remove the original kidney tumor.
  • He continues daily oral immunotherapy and regular check-ups including MRIs and endoscopies.
  • Doctors manage any new tumor growth with targeted radiation and immunotherapy to keep the cancer controlled.
  • Gillette volunteers with the American Cancer Society and emphasizes the importance of new cancer treatments.
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