Netanyahu confirms Israel arming clans opposed to Hamas in Gaza

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel is supplying weapons to clans in Gaza that oppose Hamas, particularly a group led by Yasser Abu Shabab. This move has sparked criticism and allegations of bypassing government approval, raising security concerns.

Key Facts:

• Netanyahu confirmed supplying weapons to Gaza clans opposing Hamas.
• Reports say the group receiving weapons is led by Yasser Abu Shabab.
• Some Israeli politicians and defense sources criticized the arms supply as a security risk.
• Opponent Avigdor Lieberman claims the decision skipped necessary approvals.
• The Abu Shabab clan allegedly got Kalashnikov rifles from Israel.
• Yasser Abu Shabab denies receiving weapons from Israel, stating they use outdated arms.
• The group is accused of looting aid deliveries meant for Gaza.
• Hamas reportedly sees the clan as a problem, leading to tensions.

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Nato chief is determined to give Trump a win with 5% defence spending plan

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

NATO's Secretary General, Mark Rutte, proposed that member countries increase their defense spending to 5% of their GDP at an upcoming summit. This proposal aims to meet previous calls from former US President Donald Trump while easing pressure on the US, which already spends a large portion of its GDP on defense. The plan allows flexibility in spending categories and sets a long-term goal without strict penalties for countries that fall short.

Key Facts:

• Mark Rutte, NATO's chief, suggested that members spend 5% of GDP on defense.
• The current NATO target is 2% of GDP; the proposed increase aims to align with Donald Trump's past requests.
• The spending increase would be divided into 3.5% for core defense and 1.5% for related expenses like infrastructure.
• The US, already spending 3.4% on defense, will find this target easier to meet.
• There is no fixed timetable, but achieving the target is expected to take around 10 years.
• Some countries still have not met the previous 2% GDP target.
• Rutte plans to hold leaders accountable by asking them to submit annual spending plans.
• The proposed target is significant compared to the UK’s current defense spending plans.

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BBC World

India leads in remittances - but Trump's tax could deal a blow

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

India is the top country receiving remittances, or money sent home by workers abroad. A proposed 3.5% tax on these remittances by the U.S. could affect India's economy and the families relying on this money. This tax might lead to more untracked cash transfers and impact the income of many Indian households.

Key Facts:

• The U.S. plans a 3.5% tax on money sent abroad by foreign workers, impacting countries like India.
• India received $119 billion in remittances in 2023, the highest in the world.
• Remittances help cover India's goods trade deficit and are a stable source of external finance.
• If the tax is implemented, informal, hard-to-track cash transfers might increase.
• Indian migrants in the U.S. mainly work in high-income fields like science and management.
• Remittances are crucial for Indian households, often funding education, healthcare, and housing.
• A significant drop in remittances could tighten India's dollar supply, affect the rupee, and reduce household spending.
• India is known for having low remittance transfer costs, thanks to digital channels and competition.

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Israel strikes southern Beirut on eve of religious holiday

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Israel conducted air strikes in southern Beirut, targeting Hezbollah's drone production facilities. The attack happened on the eve of the Islamic holiday Eid Al Adha after Israel had warned people in the area to evacuate. Reports indicate a ceasefire has been in place between Israel and an armed group for the past six months.

Key Facts:

• Israel targeted Hezbollah's drone-making facilities in southern Beirut.
• The strikes occurred on the night before the Eid Al Adha holiday.
• Israeli Defence Forces said Hezbollah was producing drones underground with support from Iran.
• Lebanon's Prime Minister and President condemned the strikes, citing violations of international agreements.
• Thousands of people evacuated the area, leading to heavy traffic.
• Israeli military warned local residents to evacuate due to Hezbollah's infrastructure nearby.
• Israel and Hezbollah have had past cross-border conflicts, leading to many casualties and displacement.
• There is a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, but not directly involving Hezbollah.

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Trump's new ban dodges pitfalls faced by last attempt, experts say

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

A new travel ban issued by former U.S. President Donald Trump restricts travel from 12 countries, mainly in the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. This ban differs from Trump's 2017 version, aiming to avoid past legal issues. The current policy includes clear exemptions and lacks a set end date.

Key Facts:

• The new travel ban affects 12 countries, primarily in the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean.
• It revisits a policy from 2017, which was initially struck down in courts but eventually upheld in a revised form.
• The 2025 ban does not specifically target Muslim-majority countries, unlike the "Muslim ban" label used in 2017.
• Legal experts say the new ban has clearer legal definitions and exemptions.
• The policy includes different levels of restrictions based on perceived threats, such as terrorism and visa overstays.
• Despite references to terrorism, not all banned countries are on the U.S. government's terrorism sponsors list.
• The ban has no expiration date, contrasting with the limited duration of the original ban.
• Some targeted countries, like Venezuela and Somalia, have reacted negatively, expressing dismay and willingness to discuss issues, respectively.

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US Supreme Court rejects Mexico lawsuit against gunmakers

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

The US Supreme Court decided not to allow a lawsuit by Mexico against American gunmakers. Mexico wanted to make these companies responsible for guns that ended up with drug cartels, but the Court unanimously upheld a law that protects gun manufacturers from this kind of legal action.

Key Facts:

• The Supreme Court's decision was unanimous, with a 9-0 vote.
• The ruling upholds a 2005 law called the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, which protects gunmakers from certain lawsuits.
• Mexico filed the lawsuit in 2021, aiming to hold US gunmakers accountable for illegal guns reaching Mexican cartels.
• The lawsuit was originally against eight gun manufacturers, but earlier courts dismissed cases against most of them.
• The Supreme Court said Mexico did not provide enough proof that the gunmakers directly supported illegal gun sales to traffickers.
• An investigation found between 200,000 and 500,000 US-made guns are trafficked to Mexico yearly.
• Nearly half of the guns found at crime scenes in Mexico are of US origin.
• This case was the first challenge to the 2005 law heard by the Supreme Court.

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BBC World

Trump 'very disappointed' by Musk as row explodes into public

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

President Trump expressed disappointment with Elon Musk over Musk's criticism of Trump's budget bill. Musk, who previously endorsed Trump, left his government position and has been publicly critical of the bill, accusing it of wasteful spending.

Key Facts:

• President Trump said he was surprised and disappointed by Elon Musk's criticisms of his budget bill.
• Musk criticized the budget bill for containing wasteful spending, using the term "pork" to describe it.
• The budget bill intends to cut taxes and reduce government spending.
• The bill passed in the US House but faced opposition from all Democrats and some Republicans.
• Musk has denied being upset about subsidy cuts for electric vehicles, which could affect his company, Tesla.
• The budget bill could increase the US national debt by $2.4 trillion over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
• Musk previously supported Trump and contributed $250 million to Trump’s campaign efforts.
• Musk left his governmental role after 129 days and was noted for cutting government spending while in office.

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BBC World

Three journalists among five killed in Israeli strike on Gaza hospital

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Five people died in an Israeli strike on al-Ahli hospital in Gaza, including three journalists and a father with his son. The Israeli military stated it targeted a militant operating from the hospital compound. Many organizations, including journalism groups, have urged for greater media access and protection in Gaza.

Key Facts:

• Five people were killed in an Israeli strike on al-Ahli hospital in Gaza City.
• Among those killed were three journalists and a father accompanying his son to surgery.
• The strike injured 30 people, including four hospital staff members.
• The Israeli military said it targeted a militant from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group at the hospital.
• International media groups have called for better access and safety for journalists in Gaza.
• The Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate accused Israel of targeting journalists during the strike.
• Video showed medics assisting injured people at the scene of the attack.
• The Israeli military denies targeting journalists and has not commented further on the strike.

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BBC World

Trump confirms China trip after 'very good' call with Xi

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Donald Trump has announced plans to visit China following a phone call with China's leader, Xi Jinping. During their conversation, which focused on trade issues, both leaders invited each other to visit their respective countries.

Key Facts:

• Trump and Xi had their first phone call since Trump started a trade war with China in February.
• Trump mentioned he will visit China, and Xi is invited to the White House, though Xi's visit is not officially confirmed.
• The call was mainly about trade, and both leaders described the talk as positive.
• China reported the call happened following a request from the White House.
• A previous trade agreement aimed to lower tariffs but both countries accuse the other of violating it.
• The US and China had a truce in May, reducing tariffs and agreeing to a 90-day deadline to reach a full trade deal.
• Trump has restricted Chinese access to some US technologies, impacting semiconductor software and student visas.
• Xi cautioned the US to handle Taiwan carefully, following comments from US officials about potential conflict over the island.

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BBC World

Watch: City buses go up in flames in Philadelphia

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

A fire damaged about 40 city buses in Philadelphia that were waiting to be disposed of. People were warned to stay away from the smoke, but no injuries occurred.

Key Facts:

• A fire broke out affecting around 40 buses in Philadelphia.
• The buses were set to be disposed of when the fire happened.
• Officials warned the public to avoid the smoke.
• The incident did not result in any injuries.
• The buses were parked in a lot when the fire started.

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BBC World

Building housing indigenous art burns down in Canada's wildfires

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

A building in La Ronge, Saskatchewan, containing indigenous art was destroyed by wildfires in Canada. Items lost included traditional clothing like beaded moose-hide jackets, as well as moccasins, birchbark baskets, and antler carvings. The owner expressed sadness over the loss and had been seeking a new home for the artifacts.

Key Facts:

• The building was located in La Ronge, Saskatchewan, Canada.
• It contained indigenous art, including beaded moose-hide jackets and moccasins.
• Birchbark baskets and antler carvings were also lost in the fire.
• The wildfires caused the destruction.
• The owner shared feelings of loss through a Facebook post.
• Prior to the fire, the owner was looking for a permanent home for the artifacts.
• The store had been officially closed since December 2023 but opened occasionally.

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BBC World

Former Zambian President Lungu dies aged 68

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has died at the age of 68. He had been receiving treatment in South Africa for an illness that was not made public. Lungu served as Zambia's president from 2015 to 2021 and had expressed intentions to run for office again, but he was barred by the Constitutional Court.

Key Facts:

• Edgar Lungu died at a clinic in Pretoria, South Africa, at age 68.
• Lungu served as President of Zambia from 2015 to 2021.
• He lost the 2021 election to the current president, Hakainde Hichilema.
• The Constitutional Court barred him from running for president again because he had reached the term limit.
• His political career began in 2011 when he became a Member of Parliament for the Patriotic Front.
• Lungu had roles as Minister of Home Affairs, Defence, and Justice during his political career.
• He studied law at the University of Zambia and had a background in military training.
• Before politics, he worked in law, banking, and mining industries.

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BBC World

Eight injured on Ryanair flight hit by 'severe turbulence', police say

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Eight people were hurt on a Ryanair flight due to bad weather causing strong turbulence. The flight, traveling from Berlin to Milan, had to land in southern Germany. Ryanair apologized and arranged for alternative travel.

Key Facts:

• Eight passengers were injured on a Ryanair flight because of severe turbulence.
• A two-year-old was bruised, and a woman had a head injury.
• The flight diverted to Memmingen Airport in southern Germany due to bad weather.
• Three people went to a hospital, while others got treated at the airport.
• The flight originally planned to fly from Berlin to Milan.
• Local authorities did not approve another flight to Milan that evening.
• Ryanair provided alternative transport and a replacement flight the next day.
• There were 179 passengers and six crew members on the flight.

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BBC World

World Bank U-turn ends loan ban to Uganda over gay rights

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

The World Bank has lifted a ban on loans to Uganda that was put in place two years ago after Uganda enacted strict anti-LGBTQ laws. The World Bank says it has new measures to ensure that its funding does not harm or discriminate against LGBTQ people in Uganda.

Key Facts:

• The World Bank stopped lending to Uganda two years ago over Uganda's anti-LGBTQ laws.
• In 2023, Uganda passed laws that can sentence people to death for certain same-sex acts.
• Many LGBTQ people in Uganda have faced violence, eviction, and arrest.
• The World Bank believes new measures will help fund projects without harming LGBTQ groups.
• The World Bank funds projects in Uganda such as road upgrades and electricity access.
• Critics argue the World Bank's funding model can create dependency on loans.
• International anger followed Uganda's 2023 anti-LGBTQ law, impacting its economy significantly.

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BBC World

Fans queue overnight for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Nintendo has released its new gaming console, the Switch 2, worldwide. Fans lined up overnight to buy it, as this is the first major console launch from Nintendo in five years, featuring about 25 games including Mario Kart World.

Key Facts:

• Nintendo Switch 2 is now available worldwide.
• This is Nintendo's first big console release in five years.
• Fans queued at stores that opened at midnight to purchase the console.
• Switch 2 offers approximately 25 new games.
• A key game included with the Switch 2 is Mario Kart World.

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BBC World

Why has Trump banned travel from these countries?

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

President Donald Trump announced a travel ban mainly affecting countries in Africa and the Middle East. The ban targets 12 countries with full restrictions and seven others with partial restrictions. Reasons given include national security concerns and violations of U.S. visa rules.

Key Facts:

• President Trump issued a travel ban effective from Monday, targeting countries in Africa and the Middle East.
• Twelve countries face full travel bans, and seven countries face partial restrictions.
• The ban is based on national security concerns, highlighting incidents like an attack in Colorado by an Egyptian individual.
• Afghanistan is cited for having a terrorist group in control and issues with visa overstays.
• Iran is called a state sponsor of terrorism, and it allegedly fails to cooperate on security matters.
• Somalia is labeled a "terrorist safe haven" with weak government control.
• Libya is mentioned for its "historical terrorist presence."
• Haiti has high numbers of migrants in the US, with concerns over criminal networks and visa overstays.

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BBC World

Tied up and blindfolded: How BBC team was held at gunpoint by Israeli forces in Syria

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

A BBC team, including British and Iraqi journalists, was detained by Israeli soldiers while filming near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights in Syria. The soldiers pointed weapons at the team, confiscated their equipment, and questioned them for several hours before releasing them.

Key Facts:

• The BBC team left Damascus with plans to report near the demilitarized zone in the Golan Heights.
• Israeli soldiers detained the team near Quneitra, a city in the buffer zone.
• The soldiers surrounded the team, pointed rifles at them, and took their cameras and phones.
• The BBC crew was held for several hours while soldiers reviewed their footage.
• One journalist was questioned by phone about their activities.
• The BBC complained to the Israeli military but has not received a response yet.
• The incident occurred after Israel increased its presence in the area in December.

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BBC World

Watch: Three things you need to know about the mushroom murder trial

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

An Australian woman named Erin Patterson is on trial for allegedly poisoning her relatives with toxic mushrooms during a meal. Prosecutors presented evidence showing photos on her phone that suggest she measured a deadly amount of the mushrooms. Her in-laws and another relative died soon after eating the meal.

Key Facts:

• Erin Patterson is accused of using poisonous mushrooms in a dish.
• The dish was a beef Wellington, a pastry-wrapped meat dish.
• Prosecutors showed photos from Patterson's phone as evidence.
• The photos allegedly show the use of kitchen scales to measure the mushrooms.
• Three family members of Patterson died shortly after eating the meal.
• The deceased include her in-laws Don and Gail Patterson and Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson.
• The trial is taking place in Australia.

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BBC World

Israeli military recovers two hostages' bodies in southern Gaza

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Israeli military forces found and identified the bodies of two Israeli Americans, Judi Weinstein Haggai and Gadi Haggai, who were killed and taken hostage by gunmen from Gaza. Their bodies were located in southern Gaza and returned to Israel. Currently, 56 hostages are still held by Hamas, with at least 20 believed to be alive.

Key Facts:

• Israeli military discovered bodies of two hostages in southern Gaza.
• The hostages, Judi and Gadi Haggai, were Israeli American citizens.
• Judi was also a Canadian citizen.
• The couple was killed during an attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023.
• The bodies were found in Khan Younis, Gaza, and brought back to Israel for identification.
• There are still 56 hostages held by Hamas; at least 20 are thought to be alive.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed condolences and emphasized ongoing efforts to recover hostages.
• The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged for a ceasefire to secure the release of remaining hostages.

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BBC World

Deadly mushroom cook weighed fatal dose on kitchen scales, says prosecutor

BBC World • June 05, 2025 • World

Erin Patterson, a 50-year-old Australian woman, is accused of using toxic mushrooms to kill three relatives and harm another person in July 2023. Prosecutors claim she measured a deadly amount of mushrooms using kitchen scales. Patterson denies any intention to harm and says it was an accident, insisting she did not know the mushrooms were poisonous.

Key Facts:

• Erin Patterson is accused of killing three people and trying to kill another with toxic mushrooms in July 2023.
• Photos on her phone allegedly show her weighing mushrooms that prosecutors say were death caps, a type of toxic mushroom.
• Patterson's in-laws and another relative died after eating a meal at her home, and a fourth person was hospitalized but recovered.
• The trial has involved over 50 prosecution witnesses in nearly six weeks.
• Patterson admitted to gathering wild mushrooms in the months before the event but denied intending to pick poisonous ones.
• She said she deleted data from her phone after the incident because she feared being blamed.
• Prosecutors allege she practiced using poisonous mushrooms in different foods, which she denies, claiming she meant to add more vegetables to her children's meals.
• CCTV footage shows her disposing of a food dehydrator, which prosecutors say was used to prepare the toxic meal; she denies this accusation.

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BBC World