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At least 19 dead after major earthquake strikes southern Philippines

At least 19 dead after major earthquake strikes southern Philippines

Summary

A strong 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Mindanao island in the southern Philippines, killing at least 19 people and injuring more than 130. The quake caused buildings to collapse, triggered tsunami warnings in several countries, and disrupted power and communication in some areas.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake occurred on Monday at 07:37 local time near Mindanao island.
  • At least 19 people died, and over 130 were injured in several provinces and the city of General Santos.
  • A Jollibee fast food restaurant and other buildings collapsed due to the quake.
  • The quake triggered tsunami warnings in the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, and Australia; some warnings were later lifted.
  • More than 130 aftershocks were recorded, with magnitudes up to 6.7.
  • President Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordered class suspensions in affected areas and promised government aid.
  • Power and communication networks were temporarily knocked out in some coastal areas but later restored.
  • The Philippines is located on the "Ring of Fire," a zone prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.
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Top five-a-day foods new study says your heart needs

Top five-a-day foods new study says your heart needs

Summary

A new study suggests that eating specific fruits, vegetables, and green tea that contain nutrients called flavanols may help keep the heart healthy. The study found that many people, even those eating five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, do not get enough flavanols to support heart health.

Key Facts

  • Flavanols are antioxidants that can help heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow.
  • The study involved 30,000 people from the US and UK and measured flavanol intake using urine tests.
  • Less than 20% of people consumed the recommended 500mg of flavanols daily.
  • Foods high in flavanols include plums, cranberries, blackberries, green tea, broad beans, cherries, apples, strawberries, and blueberries.
  • The study was funded partly by Mars Inc, which researches cocoa flavanol supplements.
  • Dark chocolate contains more flavanols than milk chocolate but amounts can vary.
  • Experts say more research is needed to prove if flavanols reduce actual heart disease risks.
  • Flavanol content varies by food type, growing conditions, and food storage or processing.
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Those who championed free speech in the UK and US now wage war on it. And here’s why: Palestine | Mehdi Hasan

Those who championed free speech in the UK and US now wage war on it. And here’s why: Palestine | Mehdi Hasan

Summary

The article says that governments in the UK and the US, once strong supporters of free speech, have restricted it when it comes to speaking out about Palestine. It describes actions like banning pro-Palestine activists, blocking commentators from entering the UK, and targeting students protesting Israel, raising concerns about freedom of expression.

Key Facts

  • In the UK, the government labeled the Palestine Action group as a terrorist organization.
  • Police in the UK have arrested people holding signs supporting Palestine.
  • The UK Home Office blocked US commentators Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker from entering the country, citing concerns about antisemitism.
  • In the US, the Trump administration targeted pro-Palestinian voices, including foreign students, for their speech.
  • A judge criticized the crackdown on student protesters as a serious violation of free speech rights under the First Amendment.
  • Foreign students involved in pro-Palestine activism faced investigations and detentions.
  • US politicians have pushed laws and resolutions that limit criticism of Israel and punish pro-Palestine activism.
  • The article stresses that no country, including Israel, should be immune from criticism in a democracy.
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Xi's North Korea Trip Puts Kim Jong Un at the Center of the World

Xi's North Korea Trip Puts Kim Jong Un at the Center of the World

Summary

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited North Korea to mark the 65th anniversary of a defense treaty and to strengthen ties with Kim Jong Un. This visit highlights North Korea’s growing importance as it builds closer relationships with both China and Russia amid tension with the United States.

Key Facts

  • Xi Jinping visited North Korea shortly after meeting President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
  • The trip commemorated the 65th anniversary of a defense treaty between China and North Korea.
  • North Korea recently made a security pact with Russia and supported Russia in the war in Ukraine.
  • Kim Jong Un has expanded North Korea’s nuclear weapons program and built closer ties with Moscow.
  • China wants to maintain influence over North Korea as Pyongyang moves closer to Russia.
  • North Korea's growing global role helps Kim Jong Un gain international recognition.
  • There is concern that North Korea might increase missile and nuclear tests to gain attention from the U.S.
  • The visit signals a complex balance of power among China, Russia, and the U.S. in East Asia.
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Israel and Iran exchange attacks as ceasefire falters

Israel and Iran exchange attacks as ceasefire falters

Summary

Israel and Iran have exchanged missile attacks, and Yemen’s Houthi rebels also fired missiles at Israel, putting a fragile ceasefire at risk. Both sides have launched strikes on military targets, raising concerns about wider conflict in the region.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked two Israeli airbases in response to earlier Israeli strikes on radar sites in Iran.
  • Israel detected new missile launches from Iran soon after the IRGC attacks.
  • Israel targeted a petrochemical complex and military sites in southwestern Iran after an Iranian missile attack on northern Israel.
  • Yemeni Houthi rebels, aligned with Iran, fired missiles at Israel and threatened to block Israeli ships in the Red Sea.
  • The missile attacks from Iran were the first against northern Israel since a truce with the US and Israel began in April.
  • Israel blames Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group in Lebanon, for attacks on northern Israel; Israel has also increased its military presence in southern Lebanon recently.
  • US and Iran are discussing extending the ceasefire to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease rising energy prices.
  • President Donald Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, urging caution against further military action, but Israel’s far-right National Security Minister called for strong retaliation.
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China’s Xi given lavish welcome in North Korea ahead of closely watched talks with Kim

China’s Xi given lavish welcome in North Korea ahead of closely watched talks with Kim

Summary

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited North Korea for the first time in seven years. He received a big welcome from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and they are expected to hold talks to strengthen ties between their countries.

Key Facts

  • Xi Jinping arrived in North Korea on Monday, June 8, 2026.
  • Kim Jong Un and his wife greeted Xi and his wife at the airport.
  • A large ceremony with military guards and thousands of people was held in Pyongyang’s main square.
  • Buildings were decorated with Chinese and North Korean flags and large portraits of both leaders.
  • This visit is Xi’s first trip to North Korea in seven years and will last two days.
  • Xi and Kim are expected to meet for talks to restore and strengthen their traditional alliance.
  • The visit follows recent meetings Xi had with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
  • Strengthening ties with North Korea may help China in talks with the United States.
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‘Homes turned into ovens’: Millions of Yemenis swelter amid heat, blackouts

‘Homes turned into ovens’: Millions of Yemenis swelter amid heat, blackouts

Summary

Yemen is facing extreme heat above 40°C (104°F) combined with long power outages, making life very hard for millions of people. The heatwave and electricity shortages affect many parts of the country, worsening the already serious humanitarian crisis caused by years of war.

Key Facts

  • Temperatures in Yemen have risen above 40°C (104°F), making homes very hot.
  • Long power cuts affect southern, eastern, and western regions of Yemen.
  • Coastal cities like Mukalla and Aden experience frequent outages, harming businesses and health.
  • In Aden, electricity is available only a few hours daily despite government and Saudi efforts.
  • Yemen has been in conflict for over 10 years between the Houthis and the internationally recognized government.
  • The war has damaged much of Yemen’s infrastructure, including electricity systems.
  • Saudi Arabia has provided financial aid to buy fuel for power stations to improve electricity.
  • Despite aid packages, many residents report no improvement in power supply during the heatwave.
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Keir Starmer to say ‘tech revolution must work for everyone’ in speech on AI – UK politics live

Keir Starmer to say ‘tech revolution must work for everyone’ in speech on AI – UK politics live

Summary

Keir Starmer will give a speech about technology and artificial intelligence (AI), saying the tech revolution should benefit everyone, not just a few people. The UK government is trying a new AI tool to help unemployed people find jobs by giving advice and support online.

Key Facts

  • Keir Starmer plans to say the tech revolution must work for everyone, helping all communities and boosting jobs.
  • The government supports British businesses to lead in technology, growth, and investment.
  • The Department for Work and Pensions is testing an AI assistant to help unemployed people with career advice and job searching.
  • The AI work assistant trial will last about three months to collect feedback and improve the system.
  • Users need a GOV.UK login to access the AI tool.
  • Starmer's speech is part of a busy day that includes talks on energy bills, AI adoption, and other political events.
  • Jacqui Smith criticized US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for his comments on migration at a D-day ceremony.
  • The article mentions ongoing political events in the UK, including a potential by-election win for Andy Burnham.
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Iran releases footage of missiles launched at Israel

Iran releases footage of missiles launched at Israel

Summary

Iran released videos showing missiles fired at Israel, saying these strikes are just the start of a week-long series of attacks. In response, Israel’s military said it hit military sites in Iran but did not give much detail. This marks the first exchange of attacks between Iran and Israel since a ceasefire began two months ago.

Key Facts

  • Iran shared footage of missiles launched toward Israel.
  • Iran called the strikes the start of continuous attacks lasting a full week.
  • The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said they attacked military targets in western and central Iran.
  • The IDF did not give exact details about the damage or locations hit.
  • This is the first time Iran and Israel have attacked each other since the ceasefire started two months ago.
  • President Donald Trump urged Israel not to retaliate and said he planned to call Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss this.
  • The events are part of ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel in the Middle East region.
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How Lebanon and Iran’s war of words became backdrop for latest Israel war

How Lebanon and Iran’s war of words became backdrop for latest Israel war

Summary

Tensions between Lebanon and Iran have increased after Israeli strikes on areas linked to Hezbollah in southern Beirut. Iran responded with missile attacks on Israel, threatening to end a ceasefire that has lasted for two months between Iran and the United States. The Lebanese government seeks to regain control over weapons in the country and push for peace talks, while Iran and Hezbollah oppose direct negotiations with Israel.

Key Facts

  • Israel struck an alleged Hezbollah site in southern Beirut, triggering Iranian missile attacks on Israel.
  • Iran and the US had a two-month ceasefire that is now at risk of ending due to escalating violence.
  • Israeli forces crossed the Litani River, a previously set buffer zone meant to be free of Hezbollah, raising tensions with Lebanon.
  • Lebanese President Joseph Aoun calls for negotiations and accuses Iran of using Lebanon as leverage in talks with the US.
  • Iranian officials reject Lebanon’s accusations and blame Israel for occupying Lebanese territory.
  • Hezbollah opposes direct talks with Israel and wants Iran involved in any peace negotiations.
  • The current ceasefire excludes Hezbollah and requires removing armed groups south of the Litani River to give full control to the Lebanese army.
  • Experts say the conflict might either escalate again or move toward a peace deal depending on future developments.
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As Ukraine fights off Russia’s invasion, some regions see a rise in premature births

As Ukraine fights off Russia’s invasion, some regions see a rise in premature births

Summary

In Ukraine, the number of babies born prematurely—before 37 weeks of pregnancy—has increased, especially in areas near the frontlines of the war with Russia. Experts say the high stress from the conflict on pregnant women is a major factor, and caring for these fragile newborns is made harder by ongoing attacks.

Key Facts

  • Premature birth rates have nearly doubled in some parts of Ukraine since the 2022 Russian invasion.
  • Premature babies are those born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Stress caused by war affects the health of pregnant women, leading to more premature births.
  • Hospitals in conflict zones like Zaporizhzhia take special measures, such as boarding up windows, to protect newborns and mothers.
  • Mothers often shelter with their babies at night due to the threat of shelling and attacks.
  • Some premature babies face long-term health problems, including breathing difficulties.
  • The total number of births in Ukraine has declined due to displacement and people leaving the country.
  • Medical staff work under difficult conditions to care for these vulnerable infants during the war.
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Armenia’s pro-Europe party wins election and cements shift away from Russia

Armenia’s pro-Europe party wins election and cements shift away from Russia

Summary

Armenia’s ruling pro-Europe party, led by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, won the recent parliamentary elections, showing the country is moving closer to Europe and away from Russia. The election strengthens Pashinyan’s plan to make peace with neighboring countries Azerbaijan and Turkey and to build stronger ties with the West.

Key Facts

  • Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s Civil Contract party won a narrow majority in Armenia’s parliamentary elections.
  • The Strong Armenia alliance, backed by a Russian-Armenian billionaire, gained 25% of the parliamentary seats.
  • Pashinyan aims for a peace agreement with Azerbaijan and to normalize relations with Turkey.
  • Armenia plans to deepen ties with Europe while staying in the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union.
  • The election followed Armenia’s 2023 loss of Nagorno-Karabakh to Azerbaijan, ending decades of Armenian control there.
  • Some opposition figures criticized Pashinyan for losing Nagorno-Karabakh, but he views peace efforts as a chance for economic growth and security.
  • European leaders welcomed the election result, and President Donald Trump also expressed support for Pashinyan.
  • Many Armenians are disappointed with Russia for not helping during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict despite having peacekeepers in the area.
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Iran live updates: Israel and Iran trade strikes, Trump says he calls 'all the shots'

Iran live updates: Israel and Iran trade strikes, Trump says he calls 'all the shots'

Summary

President Donald Trump announced major U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran in February 2026 and has maintained a naval blockade on Iran while pursuing peace talks. After a two-week ceasefire ended, Iran and Israel exchanged missile strikes in June, with Trump stating he directs U.S. policy toward Israel and warning of further military action if no deal is reached.

Key Facts

  • On February 28, 2026, President Trump announced large joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran’s military and infrastructure.
  • A two-week ceasefire began but talks in Pakistan in April failed to produce a peace agreement.
  • The ceasefire was extended without a set end date, and the U.S. naval blockade on Iran continues.
  • In June, Iran launched missile strikes against Israel, followed by Israeli retaliatory strikes in Iran.
  • President Trump said he "calls all the shots" over Israel and that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu must accept any deal made by the U.S.
  • Trump warned of possible further military action or maintaining the blockade if negotiations fail.
  • The Israel Defense Forces reported ongoing defensive operations against Iranian missile attacks.
  • The recent attacks were the first direct military clashes between Iran and Israel since the ceasefire began in April.
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Iran war day 101: Tensions escalate as Iran and Israel trade air attacks

Iran war day 101: Tensions escalate as Iran and Israel trade air attacks

Summary

Iran and Israel exchanged missile attacks, increasing tension as the fragile ceasefire since April 8 is at risk of breaking. Both countries reported explosions and military strikes, while regional and international officials expressed concern and discussed possible mediation.

Key Facts

  • Explosions and missile strikes were reported in Iranian cities Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz, targeted by the Israeli military.
  • Israel confirmed attacking a petrochemical plant in Mahshahr, Iran, causing evacuation.
  • Iran denied responsibility for an explosion at a Saudi Arabian airbase.
  • Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu planned a security meeting amid continued missile alerts.
  • Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it attacked Israeli airbases in response to attacks on Iranian radar.
  • The US State Department issued a security alert for Americans in Jordan due to missile activity.
  • Explosions were heard in Beirut, Lebanon, likely from rocket interceptions amid conflict spillover.
  • Diplomatic talks involved Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iran discussing mediation and regional peace efforts.
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Missiles intercepted over occupied East Jerusalem and West Bank

Missiles intercepted over occupied East Jerusalem and West Bank

Summary

The Israeli army intercepted missiles that were launched from Iran on Monday. This attack happened after Israel carried out strikes on military sites in western and central Iran.

Key Facts

  • Missiles were launched from Iran toward areas controlled by Israel.
  • The Israeli military intercepted these missiles successfully.
  • Iran's missile launch was said to be a response to Israeli attacks.
  • Earlier on the same day, Israel targeted military sites in western and central Iran.
  • The situation reflects ongoing tension and military actions between Israel and Iran.
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Colombia’s President Sparks Confusion With ‘Heil Hitler’ Post

Colombia’s President Sparks Confusion With ‘Heil Hitler’ Post

Summary

Colombia’s outgoing President Gustavo Petro posted the phrase “Heil, Hitler” on social media, linking to an opinion article calling for stronger leadership and economic freedom. The post caused confusion and is seen as a comment on the article, which supports opposition candidate Abelardo de la Espriella in Colombia’s upcoming presidential runoff election.

Key Facts

  • Gustavo Petro is Colombia’s current outgoing president and a left-wing leader.
  • Petro posted “Heil, Hitler” on the social media platform X, linking to an opinion piece.
  • The article called for order, authority, and economic freedom in Colombia.
  • It supported Abelardo de la Espriella, a hard-right candidate known for a tough stance on crime.
  • Colombia’s presidential runoff election is scheduled for June 21.
  • In the first round of voting on May 31, Iván Cepeda received nearly 41% and De la Espriella 43.7%.
  • Iván Cepeda is a left-wing senator supported by President Petro.
  • Abelardo de la Espriella is leading in polls ahead of the runoff.
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Octopus surge spreads up UK coast as far as Scotland, study finds

Octopus surge spreads up UK coast as far as Scotland, study finds

Summary

A large increase in octopus numbers off the UK coast is spreading from southwest England to Scotland and Wales, changing the marine environment and fishing industry. The rise is linked to warmer seas, which help the common octopus grow in number.

Key Facts

  • Record numbers of common octopuses were first seen in 2025 off Devon and Cornwall.
  • Octopus sightings have spread to Wales, Dorset, East Sussex, and Scotland.
  • Warmer sea temperatures from mild winters and warm springs help octopuses breed more.
  • The octopus catch rose by 7,700% in 2025, with a record 100 tonnes sold in one day at Brixham market.
  • Octopuses eat crabs and lobsters, causing trouble for some fishers but benefiting others who catch octopus.
  • The increasing octopus population affects the marine ecosystem by preying on shellfish and feeding seals, eels, and rare dolphins.
  • Hundreds of divers and snorkelers have helped scientists study the growing octopus numbers.
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Tsunami Alert After Philippines Earthquake: What to Know

Tsunami Alert After Philippines Earthquake: What to Know

Summary

A strong 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Sarangani in the southern Philippines, leading to a tsunami warning for nearby coastal regions. Authorities have reported at least 15 deaths and 129 injuries and advised people to move to higher ground or inland.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake occurred off the coast of Sarangani, southern Philippines.
  • It measured 7.8 in magnitude, according to PHIVOLCS (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology).
  • A tsunami alert was issued for southern Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago coastal areas.
  • Tsunami waves were expected to arrive between 7:37 a.m. and 9:37 a.m. local time.
  • Residents were urged to evacuate to higher ground or move further inland.
  • At least 15 people died and 129 were injured after the earthquake.
  • The U.S. embassy in the Philippines issued evacuation advice.
  • The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there is no tsunami threat to Hawaii.
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Armenia PM Pashinyan's ruling party wins landslide election victory

Summary

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s ruling Civil Contract party won a clear victory in the parliamentary elections, with nearly 50% of the vote. This win supports Armenia’s movement toward closer relations with the West, despite tensions and interference claims involving Russia.

Key Facts

  • The ruling Civil Contract party received 49.8% of the vote.
  • The Strong Armenia alliance, led by Russian-Armenian billionaire Samvel Karapetyan, came second with 23.3%.
  • Two other opposition groups, Armenia alliance and Prosperous Armenia party, also passed the election threshold.
  • Voter turnout was 59%.
  • Pashinyan said his victory will help Armenia grow and maintain peace, including improving relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan.
  • Armenia is still dealing with the effects of Azerbaijan’s 2023 military takeover of the Karabakh region.
  • Pashinyan aims to reduce Armenia’s dependence on Russia while keeping a balanced foreign policy.
  • Russia is accused of trying to influence the election through misinformation, hacking, and economic pressure.
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Middle East crisis live: Israel and Iran exchange fresh round of strikes as attacks intensify

Middle East crisis live: Israel and Iran exchange fresh round of strikes as attacks intensify

Summary

Israel and Iran exchanged missile strikes, raising fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Yemen’s Houthi rebels, allied with Iran, claimed missile attacks on Israel and threatened more attacks on ships in the Red Sea.

Key Facts

  • Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels said they attacked Israel with missiles and warned they would target ships in the Red Sea again.
  • Israel launched airstrikes on military sites in western and central Iran following missile fire from Iran.
  • Explosions were reported in several Iranian cities, including Tehran, after the Israeli strikes.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said Israel used air-launched ballistic missiles in its attacks.
  • Israel intercepted Iranian missiles launched toward Jerusalem on Monday.
  • Two people were killed and 20 wounded in Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut, Lebanon.
  • Oil prices rose over 3% due to the increased tensions after Iran’s missile attacks.
  • Iran’s parliament speaker declared US bases in the region as "legitimate targets" following the attacks.
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