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India's communists once ruled millions. What happened to them?

India's communists once ruled millions. What happened to them?

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

India's communist parties, once powerful in several states and national politics, have lost much of their influence. The recent defeat of the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led government in Kerala ended the era of any communist-led state government in India. Their decline reflects changes in political priorities and the rise of other political forces like nationalism and populism.

Key Facts

  • For the first time since 1957, India has no communist-led state governments after CPI(M)’s defeat in Kerala.
  • Communist parties once ruled states including West Bengal (1977–2011), Tripura, and Kerala, governing millions of people.
  • In 1996, Jyoti Basu, a CPI(M) leader, was offered the chance to become India’s prime minister but his party refused.
  • The communists played a key role in national politics, notably withdrawing support for Manmohan Singh’s government in 2008 over a nuclear deal.
  • Communist influence extended beyond politics into unions, student groups, and cultural life.
  • Their vote share nationally has dropped from over 6% in the 1980s to less than 2% in recent elections.
  • The decline is linked to the rise of Hindu nationalism, identity politics, and economic changes since the 1990s.
  • Communists remain politically active in Kerala and some other regions but are much weaker in former strongholds like West Bengal and Tripura.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Chemical tank implodes in Washington state, authorities report deaths

Chemical tank implodes in Washington state, authorities report deaths

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A chemical tank at a pulp and paper mill in Washington state collapsed, causing deaths and injuries. Authorities have confirmed some people died and at least 10 others were hurt in the incident.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened at a pulp and paper mill in Washington state.
  • A chemical tank imploded, meaning it suddenly collapsed inward.
  • Authorities confirmed an undisclosed number of deaths.
  • At least 10 people were injured in the accident.
  • The exact cause of the implosion has not been shared yet.
  • Emergency response teams are involved in dealing with the situation.
  • The event is being reported by CBS News and other media outlets.
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CBS News
Russia is targeting UK’s infrastructure and democracy, GCHQ head to say

Russia is targeting UK’s infrastructure and democracy, GCHQ head to say

May 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The head of the UK spy agency GCHQ warns that Russia is aggressively attacking the UK’s critical infrastructure and democratic systems. China also poses a growing threat due to its advanced technology, especially in artificial intelligence, creating a shrinking window for the UK to keep up. The UK recently froze assets linked to Russian cryptocurrency platforms to stop money used for Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.

Key Facts

  • Russia is targeting the UK’s infrastructure, democracy, supply chains, and public trust with cyber attacks.
  • GCHQ protects the UK and supports allies, including Ukraine, against sabotage and assassination attempts.
  • Russia has carried out sabotage campaigns, including placing firebombs in parcels sent to Europe.
  • China is recognized as a technological superpower with strong cyber and military intelligence capabilities.
  • The UK faces about four major cybersecurity attacks every week, mainly from China, Russia, and Iran.
  • The UK has recently sanctioned Russia-linked cryptocurrency platforms and banks to block war-related financing.
  • The new MI6 chief and GCHQ head warn the UK is in a period of uncertainty with increasing hostile online activity.
  • GCHQ’s origins trace back to World War II code-breaking efforts at Bletchley Park.
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Guardian World
Clarence B Jones, who helped MLK write ‘I have a dream’ speech, dies at 95

Clarence B Jones, who helped MLK write ‘I have a dream’ speech, dies at 95

May 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Clarence B. Jones, who helped Martin Luther King Jr. write the “I have a dream” speech and served as his lawyer and adviser, has died at age 95. He played a key role in the civil rights movement and later worked in law, finance, and academia.

Key Facts

  • Clarence B. Jones died at 95 in Cupertino, California.
  • He helped write Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech and smuggled out the “Letter from Birmingham Jail.”
  • Jones was King’s personal attorney and adviser during the civil rights movement.
  • He helped craft King’s 1967 speech opposing the Vietnam War.
  • Jones was born in Philadelphia and graduated from Columbia University and Boston University Law School.
  • After King’s death, he worked in investment banking and became the first Black allied member of the New York Stock Exchange.
  • He later taught law and social justice at the University of San Francisco and worked with Stanford’s King Institute.
  • Jones wrote a memoir about his years with King and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Iran says U.S. acting in 'bad faith' after strikes during peace talks

Iran says U.S. acting in 'bad faith' after strikes during peace talks

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Iran says the United States broke an agreement to stop fighting after the U.S. attacked Iranian missile sites and boats. The U.S. says the truce is still in place and is waiting for Iran to respond to a new peace deal proposal.

Key Facts

  • Iran claims the U.S. violated the ceasefire agreement.
  • The U.S. conducted strikes on Iranian missile launch sites and boats, calling them acts of self-defense.
  • U.S. officials say the ceasefire is still valid despite the strikes.
  • The U.S. is waiting for Iran to answer a new peace deal outline.
  • Iran accuses the U.S. of acting unfairly and in bad faith during the peace talks.
  • The situation is part of ongoing conflict and negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.
  • William Brangham reported on this developing news.
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PBS NewsHour
Three killed and dozens injured in Israeli strike on Gaza City, medics and witnesses say

Three killed and dozens injured in Israeli strike on Gaza City, medics and witnesses say

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

At least three Palestinians were killed and many injured in an Israeli air strike on a residential building in a busy market area of Gaza City. The Israeli military said it targeted Mohammed Odeh, a Hamas armed wing commander, in the attack. This strike is one of several attacks in Gaza despite a ceasefire agreement with Hamas.

Key Facts

  • The air strike hit the upper three floors of a building in a crowded market in Gaza City.
  • At least three people were killed and dozens injured according to medics and witnesses.
  • Israel said the target was Mohammed Odeh, a Hamas military leader linked to attacks on Israel.
  • Odeh’s predecessor was also killed in a similar strike earlier in May.
  • The attack happened despite a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that started on October 10.
  • Hamas and Israel accuse each other of breaking the ceasefire terms.
  • The Gaza health ministry reports over 800 deaths from Israeli strikes during the ceasefire.
  • The conflict escalated after a Hamas attack on October 7 killed 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostage, leading to a large Israeli military response.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
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Giving Iran control of Strait of Hormuz would be a mistake, Bolton argues

Giving Iran control of Strait of Hormuz would be a mistake, Bolton argues

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

John Bolton, who advised President Trump on national security, spoke about the conflict with Iran. He said it would be a mistake to give Iran control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipping.

Key Facts

  • John Bolton was national security advisor during President Trump’s first term.
  • The U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA, a nuclear deal with Iran made under the Obama administration, while Bolton was in office.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for the world's oil supply.
  • Bolton warns that letting Iran control this strait could cause serious problems.
  • The conversation happened during recent tensions and conflicts involving Iran.
  • Bolton’s comments provide insight into U.S. policy views on Iran.
  • The interview was conducted by journalist Amna Nawaz.
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PBS NewsHour
At Iranian school devastated by airstrike, grieving families say they will never forget

At Iranian school devastated by airstrike, grieving families say they will never forget

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A school in southern Iran was hit by airstrikes that killed over 150 people, mostly children. The attacks are believed to involve U.S. missiles, and the event has left deep sorrow among the families affected.

Key Facts

  • The airstrikes are part of a conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
  • More than 150 people died in the school attack.
  • Most of the victims were schoolchildren.
  • The strikes occurred in southern Iran.
  • American missiles are thought to have caused the damage.
  • Reza Sayah is the first American TV reporter to visit and report from the site.
  • The event has had a significant emotional impact on the local families.
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PBS NewsHour
The Memo: Trump and allies seek to spin Iran deal amid hazy details

The Memo: Trump and allies seek to spin Iran deal amid hazy details

May 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

There is ongoing debate and conflicting messages about a potential agreement to end the war in Iran, although no final deal has been made. Recent U.S. attacks on southern Iran have raised doubts about progress, but serious talks are still happening.

Key Facts

  • No official agreement to end the war in Iran has been reached yet.
  • The U.S. launched attacks on southern Iran, complicating the situation.
  • Despite attacks, negotiations between involved parties are still moving forward.
  • Supporters of the deal are trying to influence public opinion positively.
  • The details of the potential agreement remain unclear or uncertain.
  • The situation involves multiple countries and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
  • The news highlights a mix of military actions and diplomatic talks happening simultaneously.
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The Hill
Iran says US violated ceasefire with strikes near Hormuz

Iran says US violated ceasefire with strikes near Hormuz

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Iran accused the United States of breaking a ceasefire by attacking targets near the Strait of Hormuz, which could hurt efforts to end a conflict that has lasted nearly seven weeks. The U.S. said its strikes were defensive, aimed at missile sites and vessels laying mines. Both sides have been discussing an initial deal to stop fighting and reopen shipping through the strategic waterway.

Key Facts

  • Iran said U.S. strikes in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz violated a fragile ceasefire.
  • The United States claimed the attacks were for self-defense against missile sites and boats laying mines.
  • The conflict started on February 28 with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
  • The Strait of Hormuz normally handles about 20% of the world's oil trade, but traffic has dropped sharply due to the war.
  • Talks are ongoing for a deal to stop the conflict and restart shipping, with a 60-day window to resolve bigger issues like Iran’s nuclear program.
  • Iran is pushing for the release of about $24 billion in frozen funds as part of the initial agreement.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they might respond to the attacks and reported downing a U.S. drone.
  • The conflict has caused oil prices to rise to around $100 a barrel, affecting fuel, fertilizer, and food costs worldwide.
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France24
Health workers in Africa struggle to slow Ebola outbreak

Health workers in Africa struggle to slow Ebola outbreak

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

At least 220 people have died in an Ebola outbreak in Central Africa. The disease is spreading fast, and health workers are finding it hard to control, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo where people do not fully trust health officials.

Key Facts

  • Ebola has caused at least 220 deaths in Central Africa.
  • The outbreak is spreading quickly, making response efforts difficult.
  • The main affected area is the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • Mistrust of health authorities is making it harder to fight the outbreak.
  • The World Health Organization is involved in tracking and responding to the situation.
  • Health experts like Dr. Celine Gounder are discussing the outbreak and response challenges.
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PBS NewsHour
Where do peace negotiations with Iran stand?

Where do peace negotiations with Iran stand?

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The United States carried out military strikes in Iran, which Iran described as breaking a ceasefire agreement. Despite this, President Donald Trump’s administration continues efforts to reach a peace deal with Iran.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. launched military actions in Iran, calling them "self-defense strikes."
  • Iran said these strikes violated a ceasefire.
  • President Donald Trump’s administration is still working toward making a peace agreement with Iran.
  • The situation involves ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
  • CBS News reporters Aaron MacLean and Taurean Small provided updates and analysis.
  • The news was covered on the CBS News app and website.
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CBS News
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NASA's moon base plans include landers, buggies and drones for 2028 mission

NASA's moon base plans include landers, buggies and drones for 2028 mission

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

NASA is planning to build a moon base and has started ordering landers, rovers, and drones for a mission around 2028. The first phase includes contracts with several U.S. companies to deliver equipment near the moon’s south pole before astronauts land there.

Key Facts

  • NASA awarded contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars to four U.S. companies for moon landers, rovers, and drones.
  • Blue Origin will provide two landers to deliver moon buggies, called lunar terrain vehicles, near the moon’s south pole.
  • Firefly Aerospace will deliver the first drones to the moon.
  • The Artemis III mission is planned for mid-2027 to test docking with lunar landers in Earth orbit, leading to a moon landing by 2028.
  • In the second phase (2029 to early 2030s), NASA will start building permanent infrastructure, including a power grid for the base.
  • The third phase in the 2030s aims to create permanent habitats for long-term astronaut stays.
  • NASA’s goal is to support scientific research, develop a lunar economy, and prepare for future Mars missions.
  • NASA plans to spend about $20 billion on the moon base mission over the next seven years.
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CBS News
Sen. Ron Johnson on potential deal with Iran: "Let's see how this all develops"

Sen. Ron Johnson on potential deal with Iran: "Let's see how this all develops"

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Senator Ron Johnson discussed a possible agreement between the United States and Iran that may include a 60-day extension of the ceasefire and Iran's promise to stop fighting on all fronts and not develop nuclear weapons. He spoke about these developments and other topics in an interview on CBS News.

Key Facts

  • The potential deal includes a 60-day extension of the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran.
  • Iran would agree to stop fighting in all areas, including Lebanon.
  • Iran has promised not to develop nuclear weapons as part of the deal.
  • Senator Ron Johnson is from Wisconsin and is a member of the Republican Party.
  • Johnson talked about this possible agreement on the CBS News program "The Takeout."
  • He also mentioned the Justice Department's "anti-weaponization" fund during the interview.
  • The deal is still in development, and its details may change as talks continue.
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CBS News
Is Peter Thiel the target of Pope Leo's Gandalf quote? An investigation.

Is Peter Thiel the target of Pope Leo's Gandalf quote? An investigation.

May 26, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Pope Leo released a new official document on AI and technology that includes a quote from the character Gandalf from J.R.R. Tolkien’s books. This is notable because Peter Thiel, a powerful technology investor, is a known big fan of Tolkien’s works, and the quote may suggest a message about resisting harmful influences in society.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo’s new encyclical addresses artificial intelligence and technology.
  • The pope included a quote from Gandalf, a wizard character in Tolkien’s "Return of the King."
  • The quote talks about doing what we can to remove evil and protect future generations.
  • Peter Thiel is a well-known investor who is a big fan of Tolkien’s fantasy stories.
  • Thiel has named many companies after places and items from Tolkien’s works, like Palantir and Mithril Capital.
  • Members of Thiel’s circle, including Vice President J.D. Vance, also use Tolkien-themed names.
  • Thiel has expressed Christian views with a focus on the Antichrist figure from the Bible and critics say he is skeptical of the Pope.
  • The connection between the pope’s quote and Thiel’s interests has drawn attention and speculation.
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Ars Technica
Is the viral ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ a threat to Modi’s government?

Is the viral ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ a threat to Modi’s government?

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A comment by India’s Chief Justice comparing unemployed young people to "cockroaches" has sparked the creation of a popular political movement called the Cockroach Janta Party. This movement has gained significant attention across India.

Key Facts

  • The Chief Justice of India made a controversial remark about unemployed youth, comparing them to cockroaches.
  • The remark led to the rise of the Cockroach Janta Party, a political movement.
  • The movement has become widely known and discussed in India.
  • It uses the term "cockroach" as a symbol in its activities.
  • The movement challenges the current government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • It reflects frustration among young Indians about joblessness and political issues.
  • Media outlets like Al Jazeera have reported on the movement’s growth and impact.
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Al Jazeera
NASA lays out moon base plans with landers, buggies and drones at the top of the list

NASA lays out moon base plans with landers, buggies and drones at the top of the list

May 26, 2026 • AP News

Summary

NASA is planning to build a large moon base and has given contracts to four U.S. companies to provide landers, rovers, and drones. The goal is to start sending these machines to the moon before astronauts arrive in 2028, with the base growing over the next decade to support longer stays.

Key Facts

  • NASA awarded contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars to four U.S. companies for moon landers, rovers, and drones.
  • Blue Origin will supply landers to deliver moon buggies, which are built by Astrolab and Lunar Outpost, near the moon’s south pole.
  • Firefly Aerospace will provide the first drones to fly on the moon.
  • These machines are planned to arrive before the first astronauts land as part of the Artemis missions, starting with Artemis III in 2028.
  • The Artemis II mission in 2026 sent four astronauts around the moon, going farther than Apollo missions did.
  • Artemis III, planned for mid-2027, will test the docking of NASA’s Orion capsule with lunar landers in orbit.
  • From 2029 to early 2030s, NASA will build permanent infrastructure on the moon, like a power grid.
  • The base is expected to support long-term living in the 2030s with permanent habitats.
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AP News
3 Ebola treatment centers in Congo attacked

3 Ebola treatment centers in Congo attacked

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Three centers treating Ebola patients in Congo have been attacked recently. Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical expert who worked during the West African Ebola epidemic, provided updates on the outbreak.

Key Facts

  • Three Ebola treatment centers in Congo were attacked within the past few days.
  • These centers provide care to people infected with the Ebola virus.
  • Attacks on treatment centers can disrupt efforts to control the outbreak.
  • Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist, spoke about the situation.
  • Dr. Gounder previously worked as an aid worker during the West African Ebola outbreak.
  • The Ebola outbreak in Congo remains a serious public health concern.
  • Violence against health workers and facilities can worsen outbreak conditions.
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Authorities urge Euphrates riverbank residents in Syria to move inland as waters rise

Authorities urge Euphrates riverbank residents in Syria to move inland as waters rise

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Water levels in the Euphrates River in northern and eastern Syria have risen recently, causing flooding in the provinces of Raqqa and Deir el-Zour. Authorities have asked people living near the river to move away from the banks for safety, and there have been reports of damage to homes, businesses, and farmland.

Key Facts

  • Flooding occurred due to higher than normal rain and the opening of gates at the Euphrates Dam to reduce pressure.
  • About 1,800 cubic meters of water flow per second was released from the dam, possibly raising river levels by about 2 meters soon.
  • The floods damaged properties including the Greek House restaurant in Raqqa, where water covered the floor and many chairs were lost.
  • Some residents, including displaced people living near the river, lost personal belongings in the flood.
  • No deaths or injuries have been reported so far.
  • Syria’s Civil Defense advised people not to swim in the river or use small bridges and boats during the flooding.
  • People were urged to move themselves and their livestock to safer, higher areas.
  • The flooding is rare since dams built by Turkey have typically controlled Euphrates river flow into Syria and Iraq.
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PBS NewsHour
Remembering the remarkable life of jazz legend Sonny Rollins

Remembering the remarkable life of jazz legend Sonny Rollins

May 26, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Jazz musician Sonny Rollins died at age 95. He was known for his long career and influence on jazz music.

Key Facts

  • Sonny Rollins was a famous jazz musician.
  • He died on Monday at the age of 95.
  • He had a career that lasted more than 50 years.
  • Rollins won two Grammy Awards.
  • He also received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in the early 2000s.
  • He was recognized for pushing the boundaries of jazz music.
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