August 02, 2025

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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

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Ex-UK Special Forces troops break silence on 'war crimes' by colleagues

Ex-UK Special Forces troops break silence on 'war crimes' by colleagues

May 12, 2025
Former members of the UK Special Forces have come forward for the first time to share eyewitness accounts of alleged war crimes committed by their colleagues in Iraq and Afghanistan. They describe incidents of killing unarmed people in their sleep, executing handcuffed detainees, and planting weapons to cover up illegal acts. These allegations are now part of a UK public inquiry.

Key Facts:

  • Former UK Special Forces members allege that colleagues committed war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan.
  • The eyewitness accounts involve the killing of unarmed people and handcuffed detainees, including children.
  • The accounts describe the routine nature of these killings and the planting of weapons to cover them up.
  • The Special Boat Service (SBS), part of the Royal Navy, is also implicated for the first time in these serious allegations.
  • Over 30 former members shared their accounts, violating the typical silence around Special Forces operations.
  • The Ministry of Defence is supporting an ongoing public inquiry into these allegations.
  • During his time as Prime Minister, David Cameron was reportedly warned about civilian killings by UK Special Forces.
  • Eyewitnesses allege that Special Forces often broke the rules of war that protect civilians.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Chris Mason: Why Labour aims to buck 25-year trend of rising legal migration

Chris Mason: Why Labour aims to buck 25-year trend of rising legal migration

May 12, 2025
The UK government wants to reduce the number of people moving to the UK legally. They plan to do this by changing immigration rules, focusing on bringing in more skilled workers and limiting less skilled workers.

Key Facts:

  • For the past 30 years, more people have moved to the UK than left, leading to high net migration.
  • Net migration has been over 100,000 people each year from 1998 to 2020.
  • The UK ended free movement with EU countries after Brexit and created a new immigration system in 2021.
  • The new system introduced changes to work visas, described as a points-based system.
  • In 2023, net migration was 906,000, but it decreased to 728,000 in 2024.
  • The UK government plans to reduce lower-skilled immigration by 50,000 people quickly.
  • The government aims to emphasize high-skilled immigrants by allowing them to secure permanent residence faster.
  • Future immigration policies will likely be part of an upcoming immigration bill.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Eurovision act Remember Monday: 'The closer we get, the hungrier we become'

Eurovision act Remember Monday: 'The closer we get, the hungrier we become'

May 12, 2025
Remember Monday is representing the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest in Switzerland. The group formed over a decade ago and has been touring Europe to promote their song "What The Hell Just Happened." They are excited to perform, having gained experience from roles in West End shows.

Key Facts:

  • Remember Monday is a UK country-pop group competing in Eurovision.
  • The group members are Charlotte Steele, Holly-Anne Hull, and Lauren Byrne.
  • They formed at school and continued despite initial challenges.
  • They gained some fame on The Voice in 2019.
  • Members of Remember Monday have appeared in West End shows like Phantom of the Opera and Six: The Musical.
  • They have traveled widely in Europe to promote their Eurovision entry.
  • Their song is called "What The Hell Just Happened."
  • The band mentioned writing multiple songs, with some being discarded.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Baftas 2025: A wedding dress, party plans... and Alan Cumming's four suits

Baftas 2025: A wedding dress, party plans... and Alan Cumming's four suits

May 12, 2025
The 2025 Bafta TV awards in the UK highlighted notable moments like Stacey Solomon wearing a revamped version of her wedding dress and Alan Cumming hosting with multiple costume changes. Several actors, including Ruth Jones, Danny Dyer, and cast members from "Mr Loverman," won awards for their performances.

Key Facts:

  • Stacey Solomon wore a new version of her wedding dress at the Baftas.
  • Alan Cumming hosted the awards and changed his outfit four times.
  • Ruth Jones won a Bafta for best female comedy performance for her role in "Gavin & Stacey: The Finale."
  • Danny Dyer won best male comedy performance for his role in "Mr Bigstuff."
  • The adaptation of Bernadine Everisto's book "Mr Loverman" won acting awards for Lennie James and Ariyon Bakare.
  • Ruth Jones hinted at future projects with James Corden.
  • Danny Dyer expressed surprise and excitement about his comedy performance win.
  • West Ham's win over Manchester United was a personal highlight for Danny Dyer.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
From Kardashian popcorn to pancakes - is the protein health craze worth it?

From Kardashian popcorn to pancakes - is the protein health craze worth it?

May 12, 2025
High-protein foods are becoming popular in supermarkets, showing up in products like popcorn and pizza. Celebrities such as Khloe Kardashian are also promoting these foods. Experts warn that while some products are useful for muscle building, many might not be as beneficial and could be more about marketing.

Key Facts:

  • Products with high-protein claims are increasing on supermarket shelves.
  • Sales of high-protein foods grew from 4.6% in 2023 to 8.3% in the first part of 2025.
  • To advertise as high protein, at least 20% of a product's energy must come from protein.
  • High-protein snacks may be convenient but might not be necessary for muscle building.
  • Whole foods like vegetables and lean meats can provide needed protein.
  • Consuming 1.6g of protein per kilogram of body weight helps with muscle building.
  • Ultra-processed high-protein foods might have unknown health implications.
  • Protein can aid in muscle building, weight loss, and during pregnancy.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Weight-loss drugs tested in first head-to-head trial - and there's a clear winner

Weight-loss drugs tested in first head-to-head trial - and there's a clear winner

May 12, 2025
The first direct comparison between two weight-loss drugs, Mounjaro and Wegovy, found that Mounjaro helped people lose more weight. After 72 weeks, participants using Mounjaro lost about 20% of their body weight, while those on Wegovy lost around 14%.

Key Facts:

  • The trial compared two weight-loss drugs: Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide).
  • Mounjaro led to a 20% weight reduction, while Wegovy resulted in a 14% reduction after 72 weeks.
  • Both drugs work by making people feel full, leading to eating less and burning stored fat.
  • Mounjaro affects two appetite pathways in the brain, while Wegovy affects one.
  • The trial involved 750 obese participants with an average weight of 113kg.
  • Results showed 32% of Mounjaro users lost a quarter of their body weight, compared to 16% for Wegovy users.
  • Mounjaro users lost more from their waistlines and showed improved blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.
  • Both drugs had similar side effects, and women generally lost more weight than men.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
The Papers: PM 'toughens migration rules' and Zelensky ready to 'face Putin'

The Papers: PM 'toughens migration rules' and Zelensky ready to 'face Putin'

May 11, 2025
The UK government has announced new plans to control migration, including stricter rules for foreign workers' family members and changes to residency requirements. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to direct peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin after pressure from the US.

Key Facts:

  • New UK migration rules require English language tests for foreign workers' family members.
  • The plan changes automatic settlement and citizenship rules, extending the wait to ten years.
  • High-skilled workers and those who contribute to public services may get residency priority.
  • Some politicians criticize the plan for not capping migration numbers.
  • UK courts' ability to grant asylum under the European Convention on Human Rights may tighten.
  • Chinese companies aim to use more domestic parts due to US tariffs.
  • Ukranian President Zelensky agrees to peace talks with Putin.
  • New research suggests weight-loss injections might reduce cancer risk.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
'He's gone to nudge him and got it wrong' - pundits on Jackson red card

'He's gone to nudge him and got it wrong' - pundits on Jackson red card

May 11, 2025
Former England player Danny Murphy and ex-Southampton manager Russell Martin talked about Nicolas Jackson's red card during Chelsea's 2-0 loss against Newcastle. They shared their views on this incident on the show Match of the Day 2.

Key Facts:

  • Nicolas Jackson, a Chelsea player, received a red card during a match.
  • Chelsea played against Newcastle and lost 2-0.
  • Danny Murphy, a past England midfielder, discussed the event.
  • Russell Martin, who used to manage Southampton, also gave his opinion.
  • Their discussion happened on the TV show Match of the Day 2.
  • The original match report is only available to users in the UK.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Service marks 40 years since Bradford City fire

Service marks 40 years since Bradford City fire

May 11, 2025
A memorial service was held at the Bradford City Fire Memorial sculpture to mark the 40th anniversary of the Bradford City fire. The service remembered the 56 people who died and several others who were injured in the 1985 tragedy, with music, speeches, and a wreath laid on behalf of King Charles III.

Key Facts:

  • The memorial took place at Centenary Square in Bradford at 11:00 BST.
  • The City of Bradford Brass Band played "You'll Never Walk Alone" at the event.
  • The City Hall bell was rung 56 times to honor each person who died in the fire.
  • A wreath was laid on behalf of King Charles III.
  • Mayor of Bradford, Beverley Mullaney, spoke about the importance of remembering the event.
  • Canon Pastor Oliver Evans and Reverend Andy Bowerman gave speeches at the service.
  • The fire occurred on May 11, 1985, during a football match between Bradford City and Lincoln City.
  • The fire resulted in the deaths of 56 people and injured more than 260 others.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
The story of one of the worst disasters in football history

The story of one of the worst disasters in football history

May 11, 2025
The article discusses a documentary about the Bradford City stadium fire that occurred in 1985. It focuses on personal stories from people who experienced the fire, ensuring that the event is remembered.

Key Facts:

  • A fire occurred at Bradford City’s stadium in 1985.
  • The stadium's stands were made of wood.
  • The documentary tells personal stories of those affected by the fire.
  • The documentary's runtime is 89 minutes.
  • It was first shown on May 11, 2025, at 9 p.m.
  • The documentary is available for viewing for 11 months.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
PM promises tougher visa rules to fix 'broken' migration system

PM promises tougher visa rules to fix 'broken' migration system

May 11, 2025
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to change immigration rules, focusing on stricter English language requirements and a longer waiting period for migrants to apply for settled status in the UK. The new rules aim to make the immigration system more controlled, but critics are concerned about potential family separations if applicants do not meet language requirements.

Key Facts:

  • English tests will be tougher for all visa applicants and their adult family members.
  • Migrants will need to wait 10 years before they can apply for settled status in the UK.
  • The new rules may require changes to laws and are planned for implementation in 2026.
  • Critics worry the rules might separate families if members cannot learn English.
  • Migrants with poor English skills are less likely to find jobs, according to research.
  • A fast-track settlement will be available for jobs like nursing and engineering.
  • The current net migration rate in the UK is at a record high.
  • Labour plans to make the immigration system more controlled and selective.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Watch: Best moments of 2025 TV Baftas in under two minutes

Watch: Best moments of 2025 TV Baftas in under two minutes

May 11, 2025
The TV Bafta Awards ceremony took place at London's Royal Festival Hall, where Lennie James won Best Actor for his role in "Mr Loverman," and Marisa Abela received Best Actress for "Industry." The event was held to honor outstanding achievements in British television.

Key Facts:

  • The TV Bafta Awards ceremony was held at London's Royal Festival Hall.
  • Lennie James won the Best Actor award for "Mr Loverman."
  • Marisa Abela won the Best Actress award for "Industry."
  • The event celebrates achievements in British television.
  • The ceremony took place on a Sunday.
  • The event featured memorable moments and speeches.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Mr Bates and Mr Loverman win top Bafta Awards

Mr Bates and Mr Loverman win top Bafta Awards

May 11, 2025
At the Bafta TV Awards, "Mr Bates vs the Post Office" and "Mr Loverman" were major winners. "Mr Bates vs the Post Office" was named best drama series, highlighting its impact on public awareness of a post office scandal. "Mr Loverman" won two acting awards for performances in a story about a man's affair with a male friend.

Key Facts:

  • "Mr Bates vs the Post Office" won the best drama series award.
  • The show covers a scandal involving false convictions in the post office.
  • ITV received a special award for the show's impact.
  • "Mr Loverman" won two acting prizes for its main cast.
  • Lennie James and Ariyon Bakare won best actor and supporting actor for "Mr Loverman."
  • Marisa Abela won best leading actress for her role in "Industry."
  • Ruth Jones won best female comedy performance for "Gavin & Stacey: The Finale."

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
'Not nice to hear' - were Trent jeers 'shocking' or 'understandable'?

'Not nice to hear' - were Trent jeers 'shocking' or 'understandable'?

May 11, 2025
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has played 373 games for Liverpool, is leaving the club when his contract ends in June. In a recent match, some fans booed him for his decision, while others showed support. Despite the mixed reactions, Liverpool's manager and players respect his contributions.

Key Facts:

  • Trent Alexander-Arnold announced he will leave Liverpool after his contract expires in June.
  • He is expected to join Real Madrid as his next club.
  • During a game against Arsenal, some Liverpool fans booed him, while others cheered.
  • Liverpool manager Arne Slot chose to play Conor Bradley instead, but brought Alexander-Arnold in later because Bradley was tired and had a yellow card.
  • Alexander-Arnold has been with Liverpool his whole career and played 373 games for them.
  • He has won nine trophies with Liverpool and was made vice-captain in 2021.
  • Both Chris Sutton, a former player, and current teammate Andy Robertson expressed disappointment at the booing.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Irish policeman dies after being hit by motorbike while on speed checkpoint duty

Irish policeman dies after being hit by motorbike while on speed checkpoint duty

May 11, 2025
A garda officer named Kevin Flatley died while on duty at a speed checkpoint in County Dublin. He was hit by a motorcyclist who was also injured in the accident. Garda Flatley had served in An Garda Síochána for over 26 years.

Key Facts:

  • Garda Kevin Flatley died after a motorcyclist hit him during a speed check in County Dublin.
  • The motorcyclist, a man in his 30s, was seriously injured and is in critical condition at Beaumont Hospital.
  • Garda Commissioner Drew Harris expressed his sorrow and noted Flatley's dedication and over 26 years of service.
  • Kevin Flatley is the 90th member of An Garda Síochána to die in the line of duty.
  • The Irish Prime Minister, Micheál Martin, and President Michael D. Higgins extended their sympathies to Flatley's family and colleagues.
  • The General Secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors called the incident a "dark day" for the police service.
  • Gardaí are asking witnesses to the accident to come forward with information.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
'Major' crash shuts Berkshire motorway in both directions

'Major' crash shuts Berkshire motorway in both directions

May 11, 2025
A child died after a minibus flipped over on a motorway slip road near Reading on the M4 in Berkshire. The accident happened on Sunday afternoon, leading to road closures and serious injuries to other passengers.

Key Facts:

  • The accident occurred on a slip road from junction 10 of the M4 to the A329M near Reading at about 2:45 PM BST on Sunday.
  • Police closed the M4 in both directions following the accident.
  • The motorway reopened after around three hours, but the slip road stayed closed later into the evening.
  • No arrests have been made, according to Thames Valley Police.
  • Other passengers in the minibus were seriously injured.
  • National Highways reported severe delays due to the accident and additional vehicle breakdowns.
  • Emergency services, including South Central Ambulance Service, sent multiple units, including ambulances and a helicopter.
  • Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue crews also responded to the scene.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Woman charged with attempted abduction of baby on Blackpool Promenade

Woman charged with attempted abduction of baby on Blackpool Promenade

May 11, 2025
A woman named Nicolette Goldrick has been charged with attempting to abduct a baby in Blackpool. She was stopped by the baby's parent and other people nearby and is now in police custody.

Key Facts:

  • The attempted abduction happened near the Blackpool promenade.
  • Members of the public and the baby's parent stopped the woman from taking the baby.
  • The incident occurred around midday on a Saturday.
  • Nicolette Goldrick, aged 51, has been charged with child abduction and assaulting a police officer.
  • She has been kept in custody and will appear in court on Monday.
  • Police described the event as an "isolated incident," meaning it doesn't appear to be part of a larger pattern.
  • The incident happened close to a place known as Coral Island.
  • Police reassured the community while they investigate the case.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Hamas official says group holding direct talks with US in Qatar

Hamas official says group holding direct talks with US in Qatar

May 11, 2025
A senior Hamas official stated that direct talks between Hamas and representatives from the United States are taking place in Qatar. The discussions aim to establish a ceasefire in Gaza and allow humanitarian aid to enter the area. These talks follow the increase in military actions and humanitarian concerns in the region.

Key Facts:

  • Hamas and US representatives are directly negotiating in Doha, Qatar.
  • The talks focus on a ceasefire and getting humanitarian aid into Gaza.
  • Two meetings between Hamas and a US official happened on Saturday and Sunday.
  • Discussions also cover Israeli hostages held in Gaza and ceasefire mechanisms.
  • Israel has not publicly commented on these negotiations.
  • For 70 days, Israel has blocked food, medicine, and other aid from entering Gaza.
  • The conflict was sparked by attacks from Hamas on October 7, 2023.
  • Israeli military actions in Gaza have reportedly resulted in many deaths according to Hamas sources.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
'Suffering makes us strong' - Barcelona joy despite Mbappe record

'Suffering makes us strong' - Barcelona joy despite Mbappe record

May 11, 2025
Barcelona is close to winning the league title after defeating Real Madrid in an exciting match. The team needs one more win, or a loss from Real Madrid on Wednesday, to secure their 28th league championship.

Key Facts:

  • Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 4-3 after initially trailing 2-0 in the match.
  • With this victory, Barcelona has won all four matches against Real Madrid this season.
  • Barcelona has a seven-point lead over second-place Real Madrid with three games left in the season.
  • Young players like Lamine Yamal and Pedri have significantly contributed to Barcelona's success this year.
  • Manager Hansi Flick took over last summer and has improved the team’s performance.
  • Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe scored three goals in the match but could not prevent the loss.
  • Barcelona's next game against Espanyol could finalize their league title if they win.
  • Real Madrid has struggled defensively, conceding many goals against Barcelona this season.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Amorim admits he may have to leave if poor form continues

Amorim admits he may have to leave if poor form continues

May 11, 2025
Ruben Amorim, the manager of Manchester United, has suggested he might step down if the team's poor performance continues into the next season. Manchester United recently lost 2-0 to West Ham, marking one of their worst performing seasons, with a potential record low of points since the 1930-31 season.

Key Facts:

  • Ruben Amorim is the current manager of Manchester United.
  • Manchester United lost 2-0 to West Ham at Old Trafford.
  • The team is experiencing their longest winless streak in the Premier League since 1992.
  • Manchester United is currently 16th in the league standings with 39 points.
  • This season, they have lost nine home games, equaling previous worst records from past seasons.
  • United has fallen behind 1-0 in 12 home games this season, a club record for a single Premier League campaign.
  • West Ham’s win was their first league victory at Old Trafford since the 2006-07 season.
  • If Manchester United wins the Europa League final against Tottenham, they will qualify for the next season's Champions League.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories