U.S. Central Command said that American forces helped more than 2,000 commercial ships move over 1 billion barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz in recent months. This happened even though there have been ongoing military actions between the U.S. and Iran in the area.
Key Facts
Over 1 billion barrels of crude oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the last few months.
More than 2,000 commercial ships were supported by U.S. forces during this time.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global oil transport.
There have been ongoing military exchanges between the U.S. and Iran in this region.
U.S. Central Command oversees military operations in the Middle East.
Admiral Brad Cooper made the announcement about this milestone.
Despite tensions, oil shipments through this area have continued steadily.
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Iran has sent a list of conditions to the United States through Qatar to end ongoing conflict, according to Iran’s top security official. These conditions include stopping the war on all fronts, releasing frozen Iranian funds, and ending a naval blockade. Iran is waiting for a response from President Donald Trump and remains prepared for further conflict.
Key Facts
Iran communicated its conditions to the U.S. via Qatari mediators.
The main conditions are an end to war, release of frozen funds, and stopping the naval blockade.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council secretary is Mohsen Rezaei, who gave this information.
Qatar and Pakistan are mediating talks that began after a previous agreement ended last month.
Iran warned that future military actions could target U.S. naval forces from the Gulf to the Arabian Sea.
Iran recently test-fired a multi-warhead missile near a U.S. ship.
Despite offering talks, Iran said it is ready for a decisive war if needed.
Iran denies responsibility for a recent attack on an oil tanker and says it only acted in response to U.S. strikes.
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A Russian election observer from the opposition Yabloko party fainted during an arrest at a polling station in St. Petersburg amid Russia's three-day parliamentary election. The election, held after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, is expected to solidify Kremlin control, with very limited opposition participation and reports of voting irregularities.
Key Facts
An election observer from Yabloko lost consciousness while being arrested by police at a St. Petersburg polling station.
The observer was accused of trying to disrupt the election and was charged with disobeying police orders.
Russia’s parliamentary election runs over three days, from Friday to Sunday, and follows the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The election has little genuine opposition, with Yabloko removed from the ballot and some anti-war politicians jailed or exiled.
Observers from Yabloko and the Communist Party were often denied entry to polling places.
Reported election violations include opened sealed ballot boxes, refusal to provide paper ballots, and lack of transparency on voter turnout.
Russia did not invite the OSCE to monitor the election, citing past criticism of Russia by the organization.
Over 380,000 election observers were registered, mostly supporting the pro-Kremlin United Russia party and the Communist Party.
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Denmark and Greenland expressed cautious optimism after President Donald Trump announced a deal to increase the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping the island under Danish control. The agreement came after months of secret talks aimed at addressing U.S. security concerns.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump announced a deal with Denmark on Greenland’s military status.
The deal allows the U.S. to strengthen its military presence on Greenland.
Greenland remains under Danish control and is a semiautonomous territory.
Negotiations involved U.S., Danish, and Greenlandic officials and lasted several months.
Greenland has about 56,000 residents.
The deal responds to U.S. security concerns in the Arctic region.
Denmark and Greenland’s leaders showed cautious optimism about the agreement.
President Trump highlighted the deal as a foreign policy success before U.S. midterm elections.
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Two Israeli air strikes hit the southern Lebanese city of Nabatieh, and a third air strike targeted an ambulance team responding to the attacks. Since March 2, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has caused at least 4,386 deaths and injured 12,400 people.
Key Facts
Israel conducted two air strikes in Nabatieh, a city in southern Lebanon.
A third Israeli air strike targeted an ambulance team responding to these attacks.
The current war between Israel and Hezbollah began on March 2.
At least 4,386 people have died since the conflict started.
Approximately 12,400 people have been injured in the fighting.
Nabatieh is located in the southern part of Lebanon, near the Israeli border.
Hezbollah is a militant group based in Lebanon opposed to Israel.
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The ASPCA’s senior vice president, Nancy Perry, says Congress needs to pass a new law called Goldie's Act. This law aims to fix problems with the Animal Welfare Act because the USDA has not been protecting dogs from ongoing abuse.
Key Facts
Nancy Perry is the senior vice president of the ASPCA.
She says the USDA is not properly enforcing the Animal Welfare Act.
The Animal Welfare Act is meant to protect animals, including dogs.
The USDA’s failure has led to ongoing abuse of dogs.
Goldie’s Act is a proposed law to improve protections for dogs.
Congress must pass Goldie’s Act to address these enforcement issues.
This discussion comes after 60 years since the Animal Welfare Act was first passed.
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Cuba experienced a major power blackout that affected the entire island, including parts of Havana. The government is working to restore electricity gradually, but ongoing problems with old infrastructure, fuel shortages, and a U.S. energy blockade have made blackouts more frequent.
Key Facts
Cuba had a widespread blackout, affecting five eastern provinces and eventually the whole country.
Almost half of Havana’s electricity customers had power restored by Saturday.
The blackout was caused by a failure in high-voltage transmission lines and unstable weather.
This blackout is at least the sixth in Cuba during 2024 and the twelfth since late 2023.
Cuba’s old power system and lack of fuel contribute to frequent blackouts.
The U.S. started an energy blockade against Cuba in January 2024, increasing power problems.
United Nations experts say the U.S. blockade violates international law and warn Cuba may face serious shortages.
Residents reported being without power for long periods, and fuel shortages make it hard to use backup generators.
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Dutch riot police broke up a far-right protest in The Hague after around 500 demonstrators threw objects and fireworks at them. Police used batons and dogs to stop the violence and ended the rally, which was against the government’s immigration policies.
Key Facts
About 500 far-right protesters gathered in The Hague to oppose immigration and asylum policies.
The demonstrators threw projectiles and fireworks at police officers.
Police responded with baton charges and used dogs to break up the protest.
The rally, called “Wij zijn het volk” (“We are the people”), planned a march but was banned due to violence.
Protesters displayed right-wing symbols, gave Hitler salutes, and showed slogans like “The Netherlands is for the Dutch.”
Justice Minister David van Weel condemned the violence and antisemitic acts seen at the protest.
Police escorted protesters away from Malieveld park to restore order.
It is not clear how many people were arrested during the event.
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President Donald Trump will speak at the United Nations General Assembly next Tuesday and meet with several world leaders. His meetings will include Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez and leaders from Gulf countries to discuss important global issues like Iran’s nuclear program.
Key Facts
President Trump will address the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday.
He will meet with Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez for the first time since the U.S. captured then-President Nicolas Maduro earlier in 2026.
The U.S. recently made a deal with Venezuela giving it majority control over large oil reserves there.
Trump will also meet with the British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
A multilateral meeting with Gulf country leaders will focus on concerns about the war involving Iran and its nuclear ambitions.
The president will highlight his administration’s progress on peace deals and efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
The meetings emphasize ongoing U.S. diplomacy with global partners on security and peace issues.
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After President Donald Trump won re-election in 2024, he pushed for the United States to own and control Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory. This led to diplomatic tensions within NATO, military assessments by European forces, and eventually a deal between the U.S. and Denmark to expand the U.S. military presence on Greenland.
Key Facts
President Trump started his campaign to acquire Greenland soon after his 2024 re-election.
He described Greenland as important for global security.
At the 2025 State of the Union, Trump said the U.S. would get Greenland "one way or another."
The U.S. pressure caused diplomatic concern within NATO countries.
Several European militaries sent naval missions to assess security in Greenland.
The situation raised fears about one NATO country invading another.
Eventually, the U.S. and Denmark reached a deal to increase the U.S. military presence on the island.
Greenland is a semi-autonomous territory under Danish control.
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Fat Bear Week 2026 is an online contest where people vote for the brown bears in Alaska's Katmai National Park that gained the most weight before winter hibernation. The event highlights the bears’ survival and the importance of the salmon run and healthy ecosystems in the park.
Key Facts
Fat Bear Week is a popular annual wildlife event focused on Alaska’s brown bears getting ready for hibernation.
The contest features bears that have gained the most weight by feeding on salmon in Katmai National Park.
32 Chunk is last year’s champion known for gaining a lot of weight despite a broken jaw.
164 Bucky Dent is a young bear famous for being a skilled salmon fisher and a fan favorite.
151 Walker is a strong and experienced bear that often controls the best fishing spots.
903 Gully is a new contender and offspring of a two-time Fat Bear Week champion, known for eating gulls in addition to fish.
The contest draws millions of viewers and raises awareness about bear survival and ecosystem health.
Conservation groups see Fat Bear Week as a way to highlight the environmental challenges the bears face.
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Ed Sheeran is expected to perform at a concert in Philadelphia despite several opening acts pulling out in support of Macklemore, who was removed from Sheeran’s US tour after saying “free Palestine” on stage. The controversy comes amid calls to boycott Sheeran’s tour because of his perceived role in limiting criticism of Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Key Facts
Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran’s US tour after expressing support for Palestine during a concert.
Several opening acts, including Finneas, Lukas Graham, and Aaron Rowe, withdrew from the tour in solidarity with Macklemore and Palestinian causes.
Ed Sheeran is scheduled to perform alone at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI) has called for a boycott of Sheeran’s entire world tour.
A pro-Palestinian rally is planned near the concert venue before the show.
Artists in Gaza painted a mural of Macklemore with a Palestinian flag as a sign of gratitude for his support.
Macklemore’s removal followed pressure from Robert Kraft, a pro-Israel billionaire who owns the stadium where Sheeran was to perform.
Public support for Israel in the US has dropped to historic lows amid the war in Gaza, affecting political and cultural responses.
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A large fire broke out early in the morning at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone, forcing around 280 people to evacuate. Police are investigating the fire as a possible deliberate act, and emergency services continue to work at the scene to ensure safety.
Key Facts
The fire started at about 1:05 a.m. at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone.
Around 280 hotel guests and staff were safely evacuated.
Police are treating the fire as suspicious and are asking for witnesses.
26 fire engines responded initially; 9 remained later to extinguish hotspots.
The fire caused serious damage, raising concerns about the building’s safety.
One person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
Local council opened a welfare center and asked nearby residents to stay clear and keep windows closed.
A nearby restaurant owner provided a place for evacuees to rest and for paramedics to work.
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Ukraine has developed a new drone designed to intercept and destroy fast Russian jet-powered strike drones called Shaheds. President Zelensky shared video footage of the new interceptor drone in action and highlighted its role in boosting Ukraine’s defense. Meanwhile, the U.S. approved a $2.7 billion package to provide Ukraine with advanced air defense systems and equipment.
Key Facts
Ukraine created a new drone that can intercept Russian jet-powered Shahed drones.
Shahed drones are used by Russia in the war, often targeting civilian areas.
The new interceptor drone helps protect Ukraine and supports existing air defenses.
Ukraine is testing multiple local drone models to stop fast aerial threats more cheaply than missiles.
Conventional anti-aircraft systems struggle against drones flying up to 400 miles per hour.
The U.S. approved a $2.7 billion sale of air defense weapons and radar systems to Ukraine.
The U.S. package includes missiles, radar systems, laser-guided air defense, and drone countermeasures.
The deal aims to strengthen Ukraine’s self-defense and regional security missions amid ongoing drone and missile attacks.
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Colombian singer Juanes is helping build environmentally friendly homes after a strong earthquake hit Colombia. He talked about his music career and his efforts to support his country during this difficult time.
Key Facts
Juan Esteban, known as Juanes, is a famous Colombian singer.
He has won 29 Grammy awards.
Juanes has performed in sold-out concerts worldwide.
A powerful earthquake struck Colombia, causing damage.
Juanes is involved in building sustainable, eco-friendly homes in Colombia.
He shared his work and support for Colombia in a CBS News interview.
The homes aim to help people recover safely and responsibly after the earthquake.
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George Osborne, chair of the British Museum, said he thought a private visit to see the Bayeux Tapestry by billionaire Peter Thiel would stay secret. Thiel, a supporter of President Trump and founder of tech companies including Palantir, was shown the tapestry during a private viewing hosted by the museum before it opened to the public.
Key Facts
George Osborne organized a private viewing of the Bayeux Tapestry for Peter Thiel at the British Museum.
Osborne assumed the visit would not be publicly known but it was reported soon after.
Peter Thiel is a tech billionaire who supports President Donald Trump and founded PayPal and Palantir.
Palantir works with government agencies and militaries in the US, UK, and Israel, including a large NHS contract.
The company's work with military and immigration enforcement, and its NHS data access, has caused public concern.
The museum received no money from Thiel for the visit, and any donations would be carefully reviewed for reputational risk.
Osborne said the museum must accept funding from controversial sources like BP to stay open.
The British Museum often faces protests linked to political issues like Gaza and climate change.
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Children in Gaza have started going back to school for the first official day. At the same time, there are ongoing attacks by Israeli settlers and soldiers in the West Bank.
Key Facts
Gaza’s children are returning to school after a break.
Many parents in Gaza worry about their children's safety.
Israeli settlers and soldiers are carrying out violent attacks in the West Bank.
The West Bank is a territory occupied by Israel.
The news is reported by Al Jazeera correspondent Marah Rayan.
This situation reflects ongoing tensions between Palestinians and Israelis.
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A tropical depression named Tropical Depression Six has formed in the Atlantic Ocean. It is moving slowly north and is expected to move northeast soon, with slight strengthening possible before it weakens.
Key Facts
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) identified Tropical Depression Six in the eastern subtropical Atlantic.
This formation follows a quiet Atlantic hurricane season linked to El Niño, which has so far produced no hurricanes.
The depression is about 525 miles southwest of the Azores islands.
It is moving north at about 2 miles per hour.
The NHC expects it to move northeast for 1 to 1.5 days, then turn southwest.
Maximum sustained winds are around 35 miles per hour, with stronger gusts.
No watches or warnings have been issued for coastal areas.
The depression currently does not pose a threat to land.
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Over 2,700 people from Yemen have arrived in Djibouti to escape fighting in their country. Many made risky journeys across the sea and are now seeking help and shelter in the town of Obock.
Key Facts
More than 2,700 Yemenis have fled to Djibouti recently.
Many traveled by sea, which is dangerous.
They are escaping conflict happening in Yemen.
The northern town of Obock in Djibouti is where many have arrived.
Refugees are looking for shelter and assistance after their journey.
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Germany will hold two important state elections soon, in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The far-right party AfD, known for opposing immigration, is gaining support and hopes to make big advances, which could put pressure on Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s leadership.
Key Facts
Germany is preparing for state elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
The far-right party AfD is increasing its popularity, especially after strong results in recent Saxony-Anhalt elections.
AfD opposes immigration and seeks to win more seats in these elections.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces challenges due to AfD’s growing support.
The elections are seen as important tests for Germany’s democracy and Merz’s leadership.
Berlin is the capital city, while Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is a mostly rural area.
The results could influence the political balance in Germany’s government.
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