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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Megan Thee Stallion pulls out of Moulin Rouge show

Megan Thee Stallion pulls out of Moulin Rouge show

April 28, 2026 • BBC US

Summary

Megan Thee Stallion has left the Broadway show Moulin Rouge! The Musical earlier than planned, with her last performance on May 1 instead of May 17. She did not give a clear reason but had been hospitalized during a show and recently announced a breakup with basketball player Klay Thompson.

Key Facts

  • Megan Thee Stallion was playing the role of Zidler in Moulin Rouge! on Broadway.
  • She was scheduled to stay in the role until May 17 but left on May 1.
  • Megan was rushed to the hospital during a performance at the end of March.
  • She recently announced her split from NBA player Klay Thompson.
  • Megan hinted at possible personal issues on Instagram, including accusations of cheating.
  • She was the first woman to play the character Zidler, which received positive reviews.
  • Fans traveled from across the US to see her perform in the show.
  • Megan is a Grammy-winning rapper known for songs like "Savage" and "Hot Girl Summer."
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BBC US BBC Top Stories
Key points as MPs question former Foreign Office boss on Mandelson vetting row

Key points as MPs question former Foreign Office boss on Mandelson vetting row

April 28, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK Foreign Affairs Committee is investigating how Lord Mandelson was chosen as the UK ambassador to the United States, especially due to his links with Jeffrey Epstein. Sir Philip Barton, a former senior Foreign Office official, said he was not consulted on the appointment and that there was pressure to complete Mandelson’s security checks quickly.

Key Facts

  • Lord Mandelson was appointed as UK ambassador to the US but was dismissed in September 2025 over his connections to Jeffrey Epstein.
  • Sir Philip Barton only learned about Mandelson’s appointment five days before the public announcement.
  • Barton believed he should have been consulted because the ambassador role is important, yet it was a political decision.
  • Barton was concerned about Mandelson’s Epstein links, calling Epstein a "toxic" issue in the US.
  • The US administration under President Donald Trump was surprised by Mandelson’s appointment because they preferred the previous ambassador.
  • Downing Street showed little interest in thoroughly vetting Mandelson before the appointment.
  • Barton confirmed there was strong pressure to finish Mandelson’s vetting quickly to meet the Prime Minister’s timeline.
  • The Prime Minister denied there was inappropriate pressure, describing it as routine government urgency.
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BBC Top Stories
Iran offers to reopen Strait of Hormuz if US lifts its blockade and the war ends

Iran offers to reopen Strait of Hormuz if US lifts its blockade and the war ends

April 28, 2026 • France24

Summary

Iran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the United States lifts its blockade on Iran and stops the war. This offer, delivered through Pakistan, would delay talks about Iran’s nuclear program. President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept this proposal.

Key Facts

  • Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, an important waterway for global oil shipments.
  • Iran offered to end its control of the strait if the US lifts its blockade on the country.
  • The offer also requires an end to the ongoing war between the US and Iran.
  • The proposal would postpone discussions about Iran's nuclear program.
  • Pakistan passed Iran’s offer to the United States.
  • The US and Israel started a war on February 28, 2026.
  • President Donald Trump is unlikely to accept Iran’s offer.
  • The situation is part of broader tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the US, and Israel.
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France24
Lebanon health ministry says Israeli strikes kill 4 in south despite ceasefire

Lebanon health ministry says Israeli strikes kill 4 in south despite ceasefire

April 28, 2026 • France24

Summary

Lebanon’s health ministry reported that Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon killed four people and injured 51 others, including three children, even though a ceasefire was in place. Since the ceasefire began on April 17, these strikes have caused at least 40 deaths in Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • The strikes occurred on April 27, 2026, in southern Lebanon.
  • Four people were killed, including one woman.
  • 51 people were wounded, three of them children.
  • The strikes happened despite an active ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
  • Since April 17, Israeli strikes have killed at least 40 people in Lebanon.
  • The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah is described as fragile.
  • The information comes from Lebanon’s health ministry and AFP’s count of casualties.
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France24
Kashmir seminary declared unlawful under anti-terror law, sparks outcry

Kashmir seminary declared unlawful under anti-terror law, sparks outcry

April 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

An important Islamic school in Kashmir called Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom has been declared unlawful under anti-terror laws by the Indian government. Authorities say the school has secret links with a banned political group, but school leaders and local politicians have denied this and criticized the move.

Key Facts

  • Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom is a large Islamic seminary in southern Kashmir with over 800 students.
  • The school was declared unlawful under India’s Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), which targets terrorism but is criticized for lack of evidence requirements.
  • Officials claimed the seminary’s management had hidden connections with Jamaat-e-Islami, a banned political party.
  • The seminary’s chairman denied all allegations and said the decision caused fear among students and parents.
  • Local Kashmiri leaders said the government is trying to weaken social and religious institutions in Kashmir.
  • The region’s autonomy was revoked in 2019, increasing federal control from New Delhi over Kashmir.
  • Since then, authorities have increased monitoring and restrictions on mosques and political activity in Kashmir.
  • Kashmiri politicians and religious leaders have expressed concern about ongoing harassment and loss of freedoms.
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Al Jazeera
Tuareg rebels and jihadists in control of key Mali town after offensive

Tuareg rebels and jihadists in control of key Mali town after offensive

April 28, 2026 • France24

Summary

Tuareg rebels and jihadist groups have taken control of the northern town of Kidal in Mali after attacking military positions. The fighting has caused uncertainty about the country's military government, with the defense minister dead and the military leader missing.

Key Facts

  • Tuareg separatists and jihadist allies seized the town of Kidal in northern Mali.
  • The takeover followed two days of heavy fighting with the army.
  • Mali is currently ruled by a military government that came to power in a 2020 coup.
  • Defense Minister Sadio Camara was killed during the clashes.
  • Military ruler General Assimi Goita has not been seen or heard from since the fighting began.
  • The fighting raises questions about the future of Mali’s junta government.
  • The conflict involves both separatists seeking autonomy and jihadists with militant goals.
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France24
Iraq appoints new prime minister-designate

Iraq appoints new prime minister-designate

April 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iraqi businessman Ali al-Zaidi was chosen as prime minister-designate by a group of Shia parties that hold most seats in parliament. He now has 30 days to put together a government cabinet.

Key Facts

  • Ali al-Zaidi is a multimillionaire from Iraq.
  • He was nominated by a coalition of Shia political parties.
  • This coalition has the majority in the Iraqi parliament.
  • Al-Zaidi’s role as prime minister-designate means he must form a government.
  • He has 30 days to choose cabinet members and present the new government.
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Al Jazeera
Train collision in Indonesia kills 14, injures dozens

Train collision in Indonesia kills 14, injures dozens

April 28, 2026 • France24

Summary

A long-distance train in Indonesia crashed into a stopped commuter train near Bekasi Timur station, killing 14 people and injuring many others. Rescue teams worked for nearly 12 hours to free passengers from the damaged train cars, and the Indonesian president has ordered an investigation into the accident.

Key Facts

  • The crash happened near Bekasi Timur station, east of Jakarta.
  • A moving long-distance train hit a stationary commuter train.
  • 14 people died in the collision.
  • Many more people were injured.
  • Rescue efforts lasted about 12 hours.
  • Crews had to pry open mangled train carriages to help passengers.
  • The Indonesian president ordered an official investigation after the crash.
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France24
Britain's King Charles meets Trump in bid to salvage ties

Britain's King Charles meets Trump in bid to salvage ties

April 28, 2026 • France24

Summary

Britain’s King Charles III met President Donald Trump at the White House during a state visit aimed at improving the strained relationship between the UK and the US. The visit happened amid tensions over Trump’s war in Iran and reports of a new alleged attempt to assassinate the US president.

Key Facts

  • King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the White House in Washington, D.C.
  • The visit was intended to help repair the "special relationship" between the UK and the US.
  • There are ongoing tensions between London and Washington concerning President Trump’s military actions in Iran.
  • An alleged new attempt to assassinate President Trump was reported around the time of the visit.
  • The meeting included official ceremonies with cameras and media coverage, presenting a warm welcome.
  • Behind the public displays, there are deeper political disagreements between the two countries.
  • The visit highlights efforts to maintain cooperation despite diplomatic challenges.
  • This is part of King Charles’s mission to strengthen UK-US ties during his state visit.
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France24
Italian Crans-Montana victims angered over Swiss hospital bills

Italian Crans-Montana victims angered over Swiss hospital bills

April 28, 2026 • France24

Summary

Four months after a fire at a nightclub in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, that killed 41 people, Italian families of some victims received hospital bills from Swiss medical centers. The bills were for tens of thousands of euros, which caused anger and complaints in Italy.

Key Facts

  • The nightclub fire happened in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
  • The fire killed 41 people.
  • Some victims were from Italy.
  • Italian families received hospital bills from Swiss hospitals for treatment costs.
  • The bills were very high, reaching tens of thousands of euros.
  • The bills arrived about four months after the fire.
  • The bills caused upset and protests in Italy.
  • This issue has drawn attention from Italian authorities in Rome.
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France24
How Iran has changed, and how it hasn’t, in two months of war

How Iran has changed, and how it hasn’t, in two months of war

April 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Two months after strikes by the United States and Israel, Iran’s main government institutions remain intact despite some leadership changes. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continues to lead military operations and exercise control in politics, the economy, and security, while the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed quickly after the previous leader’s death.

Key Facts

  • U.S. and Israeli strikes targeted Tehran two months ago but Iran’s government structures still operate.
  • President Trump claims “regime change” occurred, including the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, but his son Mojtaba Khamenei succeeded him.
  • The IRGC holds strong power in military, economic, and street-level control through paramilitary forces.
  • Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, aligned with IRGC leaders, became head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
  • The judiciary and hardline parliament continue harsh policies like frequent executions and arrests.
  • State media remains under IRGC or hardline control, using tools like AI to spread government messages.
  • Moderate President Masoud Pezeshkian handles mostly domestic and diplomatic roles but lacks influence.
  • Iran supports allied armed groups in other countries and has involved foreign paramilitary fighters in domestic security.
  • Iranian leaders reject U.S. demands for concessions, viewing them as surrender, and remain ready for further military actions.
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Al Jazeera
Why NATO's Weakest Link Is Spain | Opinion

Why NATO's Weakest Link Is Spain | Opinion

April 28, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article discusses concerns about Spain's role in NATO under Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. It highlights Spain's reluctance to increase defense spending, its opposition to certain U.S. military actions, and closer ties with China, all of which challenge NATO’s unity and its relationship with the United States.

Key Facts

  • Turkey, a key NATO member, has long been seen as a complicated and sometimes unreliable ally.
  • Spain, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, is now viewed as a challenging NATO member.
  • Spain refused to raise defense spending to 5% of its GDP, a demand from the Trump administration for European countries.
  • Sanchez opposes the U.S.-Israeli military action against Iran and calls it an “illegal” war.
  • Spain declined to allow U.S. military use of joint bases for Operation Epic Fury.
  • Sanchez has made multiple trips to China and encourages China to take a larger role in global affairs.
  • Spain recently co-hosted a global leftist event seen as opposing U.S. policies and its allies.
  • These actions have contributed to tensions between the U.S. and European NATO members over shared defense responsibilities.
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Newsweek
Austrian man goes on trial for 2024 Taylor Swift concert terror plot

Austrian man goes on trial for 2024 Taylor Swift concert terror plot

April 28, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A man is on trial in Austria for planning a terror attack at Taylor Swift’s 2024 concerts in Vienna. The plot was stopped before it could happen, but authorities canceled the shows to protect the public. The accused faces charges related to terrorism and may receive up to 20 years in prison.

Key Facts

  • The trial started against a 21-year-old Austrian man identified as Beran A. under local privacy laws.
  • He and a second man, Arda K., face charges including involvement with a terrorist group.
  • The planned attack targeted crowds outside Ernst Happel Stadium where Taylor Swift was performing.
  • Authorities found bomb-making materials in Beran A.’s home the day before the first concert.
  • The U.S. shared intelligence that helped Austria cancel the concerts.
  • Prosecutors say Beran A. pledged loyalty to the Islamic State group and planned to use knives or homemade bombs.
  • Beran A.’s lawyer said he plans to admit guilt to most charges.
  • The Vienna plot is compared to a 2017 suicide bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester that killed 22 people.
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Guardian World
FIFA urged to push US for ‘ICE Truce’ at World Cup by Human Rights Watch

FIFA urged to push US for ‘ICE Truce’ at World Cup by Human Rights Watch

April 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Human Rights Watch has asked FIFA to urge the U.S. government to create an “ICE Truce” during the 2026 World Cup to pause immigration enforcement around game venues. This is to help fans, players, and workers feel safe and avoid immigration-related issues while attending the tournament hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico and will feature 48 teams.
  • Human Rights Watch wants the U.S. government to stop immigration raids by ICE near World Cup venues during the event.
  • ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has been part of a strict immigration enforcement policy under President Donald Trump’s administration.
  • Rights groups say this policy risks violating free speech and due process and creates fear, especially for minorities.
  • The “ICE Truce” idea is similar to the ancient Olympic Truce, a pause in conflict so athletes and fans could travel safely.
  • President Trump has emphasized that the World Cup should be safe and secure for all visitors.
  • Advocacy groups warned that visitors might face detention or deportation and other human rights abuses during the World Cup.
  • The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said it will work to secure the event according to the law and ensure a safe experience for all fans.
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Al Jazeera
Macron expected to back Andorra’s moves to decriminalise abortion during visit - Europe live

Macron expected to back Andorra’s moves to decriminalise abortion during visit - Europe live

April 28, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

France’s President Emmanuel Macron is visiting Andorra, where he serves as one of the country’s two co-princes alongside a Catholic bishop. During his visit, Macron is expected to support efforts to change Andorra’s strict abortion laws and back the country’s plans to join an agreement with the European Union.

Key Facts

  • Emmanuel Macron is both France’s president and a co-prince of Andorra.
  • Andorra currently has some of the most restrictive abortion laws in Europe.
  • Andorra’s prime minister, Xavier Espot Zamora, wants to decriminalize abortion within a year but not necessarily legalize it.
  • Andorra’s co-rule includes a Catholic bishop, which complicates abortion law changes.
  • Macron plans to speak in favor of reforming abortion laws during his visit.
  • Macron may also endorse Andorra’s ratification of an association agreement with the European Union, possibly by July.
  • Macron celebrated Andorra’s unique political system and history during a recent toast.
  • Macron is visiting a local school and interacting with children during the trip.
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Guardian World
Mexican special forces arrest top commander of powerful cartel

Mexican special forces arrest top commander of powerful cartel

April 28, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Mexican special forces arrested Audias Flores, a top leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in the state of Nayarit without firing a shot. Flores was considered a potential successor to the cartel’s recent head, El Mencho, who was killed earlier this year.

Key Facts

  • Audias Flores, also called “El Jardinero,” controlled large areas of CJNG territory on Mexico’s Pacific coast.
  • Flores was surrounded by about 30 pickup trucks and 60 gunmen during his arrest near Puerto Vallarta.
  • The operation involved more than 500 troops, six helicopters, and several planes, and was based on 19 months of surveillance.
  • The arrest used intelligence from both Mexican forces and US authorities, such as aerial surveillance.
  • Flores is wanted in the US on drug trafficking charges, and there was a $5 million reward for his capture.
  • Mexican authorities also arrested César Alejandro “El Güero Conta,” accused of laundering money for Flores.
  • Flores managed drug labs, smuggling routes, and drug distribution networks in the US for the cartel.
  • The arrest is seen as a major step in fighting drug trafficking and violence linked to the CJNG, which had pressured security efforts in Mexico and from the US government.
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Guardian World
King Charles III and Queen Camilla begin US state visit – in pictures

King Charles III and Queen Camilla begin US state visit – in pictures

April 28, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived in the United States for a state visit. They were warmly welcomed by President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other officials, including events at the White House and the British embassy.

Key Facts

  • King Charles III and Queen Camilla landed at Joint Base Andrews near Washington DC.
  • They received a greeting from US Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley.
  • President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed them at the White House.
  • The king and queen met children of British military families based in the US.
  • They attended a garden party at the British embassy with US and British officials.
  • President Trump hosted an afternoon tea for the royal visitors at the White House.
  • Camilla spoke with the chief executive of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
  • Several photos show interactions between the royals, the Trumps, and embassy staff during the visit.
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Guardian US
Adelaide writers’ week sacrificed to save city’s prestigious arts festival, documents show

Adelaide writers’ week sacrificed to save city’s prestigious arts festival, documents show

April 28, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Adelaide Writers’ Week was canceled in 2026 to protect the larger Adelaide Festival, which greatly benefits South Australia’s economy. The cancellation followed controversy over removing Palestinian Australian academic Randa Abdel-Fattah, which led many artists and companies to threaten withdrawing from the festival.

Key Facts

  • Adelaide Writers’ Week is part of the Adelaide Festival, an event contributing over $60 million yearly to South Australia’s economy.
  • The festival board removed Randa Abdel-Fattah from the Writers’ Week program, sparking protests and artist withdrawals.
  • Three board members resigned, and the chairperson stepped down amid the controversy.
  • Many Australian theater and dance companies considered pulling out of the festival after the boycotts began.
  • The festival feared a global wave of cancellations due to allegations of censorship and government interference.
  • Internal documents recommended canceling Writers’ Week quickly to prevent further withdrawals and protect the overall festival’s reputation.
  • Adelaide Writers’ Week director Louise Adler urged a public apology to Abdel-Fattah and cancellation of the 2026 event before resigning.
  • Premier Peter Malinauskas denied pressuring the festival, but documents suggest his letter sparked the crisis.
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Guardian World
Palestine weekly wrap: Under cover of ceasefire, Israel increases grip

Palestine weekly wrap: Under cover of ceasefire, Israel increases grip

April 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Despite ceasefire agreements between Israel and groups in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, violence and military actions have continued, with Israeli forces pushing further into Palestinian areas. Palestinians held municipal elections in the West Bank and Gaza for the first time since 2006, but many doubt these votes will lead to significant changes amid ongoing conflict.

Key Facts

  • Israel agreed to ceasefires in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, but fighting and military operations increased.
  • Israeli forces and settlers have moved deeper into Palestinian-controlled parts of the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
  • Heavy airstrikes hit Gaza, killing civilians and police officers, including children and pregnant women.
  • Since the ceasefire started on October 11, 2023, over 800 Palestinians in Gaza have died, with more than 2,200 injured.
  • Small municipal elections were held in Gaza’s Deir el-Balah for the first time since 2006, with low voter turnout around 23%.
  • Violence by settlers in the West Bank led to deaths, including shootings near schools and other attacks on Palestinians.
  • Israeli forces sometimes attacked mourners at funerals and were involved in incidents causing Palestinian deaths.
  • Aid to Gaza has slightly increased since a border crossing was reopened, but it is still not enough to meet urgent needs.
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Al Jazeera
Down but not out: In war with Israel, Hezbollah shows it is still powerful

Down but not out: In war with Israel, Hezbollah shows it is still powerful

April 28, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Hezbollah is still a powerful group despite recent conflicts with Israel. After a ceasefire in November 2024, Hezbollah avoided fighting but returned to battle in southern Lebanon following attacks linked to Iran’s leadership. Ongoing peace talks between Lebanon and Israel, with U.S. involvement, will affect Hezbollah’s future role.

Key Facts

  • Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire in November 2024 after heavy fighting and Israeli incursions into southern Lebanon.
  • Hezbollah’s senior leaders were weakened by the war, but the group remains strong and active.
  • Israel continued low-level attacks on Lebanon after the ceasefire, killing hundreds.
  • Hezbollah resumed fighting in March 2026 after the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei by US-Israeli forces.
  • Lebanon’s government banned Hezbollah’s military activities the same day Hezbollah reengaged.
  • Heavy fighting continues in southern Lebanon despite temporary ceasefires brokered by President Donald Trump.
  • Hezbollah announced it will resume suicide attacks on Israeli targets in Lebanon, a tactic from past conflicts.
  • Peace talks between Lebanon and Israel are ongoing in Washington, but Hezbollah rejects these direct negotiations.
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Al Jazeera