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Eleven killed in Lebanon village as Israel intensifies strikes

Eleven killed in Lebanon village as Israel intensifies strikes

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Israel has increased its air and artillery strikes across southern and eastern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah sites. These strikes have killed at least 11 people, including children, in the village of Mashghara, while Hezbollah has launched rockets and drones in response toward northern Israel.

Key Facts

  • Israel conducted over 100 strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure and fighters in Lebanon.
  • At least 11 people, including two children, were killed in the village of Mashghara due to Israeli airstrikes.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a stronger military response against Hezbollah.
  • The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered by the US in mid-April, has been repeatedly broken by both sides.
  • Hezbollah uses drones and rockets to attack Israeli communities and troops.
  • Israeli strikes also targeted weapons storage, command centers, and observation posts used by Hezbollah.
  • Thousands of Lebanese residents fled southern Beirut suburbs following intensified strikes.
  • Both sides accused each other of violating the ceasefire that started on April 17.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Senegal lawmakers elect ousted PM Sonko as new parliament speaker

Senegal lawmakers elect ousted PM Sonko as new parliament speaker

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Senegal’s parliament elected former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko as the new speaker, despite him being dismissed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This move gives Sonko a strong role in parliament and comes amid tensions over how to handle the country’s debt problems.

Key Facts

  • Ousmane Sonko was dismissed as prime minister by President Faye and the cabinet was dissolved.
  • Parliament reinstated Sonko as a member and then elected him speaker with 132 votes in favor, no votes against, and one abstention.
  • Sonko’s party, Pastef, holds 130 of 165 seats in Senegal’s parliament.
  • Sonko replaced El Malick Ndiaye as speaker, who resigned recently.
  • The main opposition leader, Aissata Tall Sall, called this change an “institutional coup.”
  • Sonko was appointed prime minister in April 2024 after Faye won the presidential election.
  • Sonko was barred from running for president due to a defamation conviction.
  • President Faye appointed a new prime minister, economist Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lo, to address Senegal’s debt crisis.
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Al Jazeera
Ferry frustrations and housing concerns in Gorey

Ferry frustrations and housing concerns in Gorey

May 26, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Residents in Gorey and surrounding areas of Jersey have expressed concerns about rising living costs, especially due to higher prices for food and housing. Changes to ferry freight charges have increased the cost of importing goods, affecting local businesses and everyday expenses.

Key Facts

  • A new flat-rate pricing model for ferry freight means all providers pay the same rate per meter of space on ships.
  • Previously, businesses importing larger volumes paid less per unit, but this changed last year to promote competition.
  • Café owner Tracey Benn said the cost of eggs more than doubled in three years, from £3.60 to £7.90 per tray.
  • Prices for bacon and coffee beans have also increased significantly due to freight cost changes.
  • Local resident Elaine Davis mentioned that ferry changes contributed to higher grocery prices.
  • Debbie Krupski, a resident worried about housing costs, said many cannot afford to buy property on the island.
  • She expressed concern that she might have to leave Jersey due to the high cost of living and housing.
  • The Jersey general election will occur on 7 June 2026, with residents discussing local issues like these ahead of voting.
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BBC Business
Congolese protesters accuse EU of complicity in DRC violence

Congolese protesters accuse EU of complicity in DRC violence

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Hundreds of people from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) protested in Brussels. They accused the European Union (EU) of being involved in violence happening in eastern DRC.

Key Facts

  • The protesters are Congolese people living in or visiting Brussels.
  • They say the EU is partly responsible for violence in eastern DRC.
  • The protest took place in Brussels, which is the main city of the EU.
  • The violence they refer to is ongoing in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • The protesters want the EU to take responsibility or action regarding the conflict.
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Al Jazeera
Four people killed in Belgium in train and school bus collision

Four people killed in Belgium in train and school bus collision

May 26, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Four people, including two children, died when a school minibus collided with a train at a level crossing in northern Belgium. Five children were seriously injured and taken to the hospital. Authorities are investigating why the bus tried to cross despite warning signals.

Key Facts

  • The accident happened near Buggenhout in Flanders, Belgium, around 8 a.m. on Tuesday.
  • Two children (aged 12 and 15), the bus driver (49), and a 27-year-old chaperone died in the crash.
  • Five children on the bus were seriously hurt but are in stable condition.
  • The minibus attempted to cross while the barriers were down and a red light was flashing.
  • The train driver applied emergency brakes but could not stop in time to prevent the collision.
  • About 100 people were on the train, but none were physically injured; one passenger was in shock.
  • Belgium has a history of level crossing accidents but has reduced them over recent years by removing many crossings.
  • European leaders expressed condolences for the victims and their families.
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Guardian World
Israeli air attacks kill seven Palestinians in Gaza

Israeli air attacks kill seven Palestinians in Gaza

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Israeli air attacks struck locations in Gaza, killing at least seven Palestinians, including five in Maghazi refugee camp and two in Khan Younis. These attacks occurred amid ongoing conflict and after a ceasefire was agreed upon in October 2023.

Key Facts

  • Israeli air strikes killed at least seven Palestinians in Gaza recently.
  • Five people died in a drone attack on Maghazi refugee camp.
  • Two others were killed in an Israeli attack on a vehicle in Khan Younis city.
  • The attacks happened during the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha.
  • Israel and Qatar brokered a ceasefire in October 2023, but violence continues.
  • Over 900 Palestinians and four Israeli soldiers have died since the ceasefire.
  • Some armed groups in Gaza, opposed to Hamas, have received Israeli support.
  • These groups have carried out operations and caused instability inside Gaza.
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Al Jazeera
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Teens and screens: The smartphone trap

Teens and screens: The smartphone trap

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Many French teenagers spend a lot of time using smartphones, playing video games, and doing homework online. Some parents and experts are concerned about addiction and health problems, and they are trying to help teens reduce screen time and its negative effects.

Key Facts

  • About 90% of French children aged 13, like Rayan, own a smartphone.
  • Some teens can spend up to 12 hours a day playing online games like Fortnite and Roblox.
  • Excessive screen time can harm concentration, grades, sleep, and mental health.
  • Psychologist Sabine Duflo compares video game addiction to alcohol or drug addiction.
  • Treatment for screen addiction includes withdrawal, similar to detox for substance abuse.
  • French children usually get their first smartphone around age nine and spend over four hours daily on screens outside school.
  • Some parents work together to delay giving kids smartphones until age 15 to reduce risks.
  • Initiatives encourage children to use simpler phones and avoid addictive games to protect their well-being.
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France24
Bolivian president slashes salary by 50% to calm protests

Bolivian president slashes salary by 50% to calm protests

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz has cut his salary and that of his ministers by half to address ongoing protests in the capital. The protests started because of a high cost of living and government budget cuts that have caused serious economic problems in Bolivia.

Key Facts

  • President Rodrigo Paz announced a 50% salary cut for himself and his ministers on May 25, 2026.
  • Protests have blockaded Bolivia’s capital, La Paz.
  • Demonstrators are upset about the rising cost of living.
  • The government’s austerity measures worsened Bolivia’s economy, leading to its worst crisis in 40 years.
  • Protesters have clashed with police during the demonstrations.
  • The salary cut is an attempt to calm public anger and ease the protests.
  • The protests focus on economic hardship and government policies.
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France24
Hunting supporters say ban leaves dog owners at risk of prosecution

Hunting supporters say ban leaves dog owners at risk of prosecution

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A bill is being voted on in Northern Ireland to ban hunting wild animals with dogs, a practice still allowed only there in the UK. Supporters of hunting warn that the ban could lead to many dog owners being prosecuted for their dogs chasing wild animals. The bill’s backers say it will modernize Northern Ireland’s laws like in the rest of the UK.

Key Facts

  • The bill aims to ban hunting wild animals with dogs in Northern Ireland.
  • Northern Ireland is currently the only UK region where hunting with dogs is legal.
  • The bill is introduced by John Blair from the Alliance Party.
  • The Countryside Alliance Ireland calls the bill "misguided and divisive."
  • Hunting supporters fear everyday dog owners could be prosecuted if their dogs chase wild animals.
  • Similar hunting bans have existed in Scotland for over 20 years without prosecutions of dog owners.
  • Some hunting supporters say hunting controls pests like foxes and protects farm animals.
  • The bill is expected to advance with support from Sinn Féin, Alliance Party, and some DUP members.
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BBC Top Stories
Live updates: US hits Iran even as peace talks proceed; Cornyn-Paxton faceoff tests Trump’s backing

Live updates: US hits Iran even as peace talks proceed; Cornyn-Paxton faceoff tests Trump’s backing

May 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The United States and Iran are moving toward a peace deal after nearly three months of conflict, but tensions remain high. Recently, the U.S. carried out strikes in southern Iran, while Iran said it shot down an American drone.

Key Facts

  • The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has lasted almost three months.
  • Both sides are working on a possible peace agreement.
  • The U.S. launched what it called “defensive” strikes in southern Iran.
  • Iran claimed to have shot down an American drone.
  • President Trump demanded that Iran immediately hand over the drone.
  • Despite progress on talks, military actions continue.
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The Hill
Man pleads guilty over deaths of four migrants

Man pleads guilty over deaths of four migrants

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A man named Alnour Mohamed Ali pleaded guilty to endangering life after four migrants drowned trying to cross the English Channel from France to the UK. He admitted piloting the boat, which got caught in strong currents, leading to the deaths of two men and two women.

Key Facts

  • The incident happened on April 9 near Equihen-Plage, France.
  • Four migrants drowned as they tried to board a small boat; their identities were not released.
  • More than 40 people were rescued that day, including two children taken to the hospital.
  • Alnour Mohamed Ali is a 27-year-old Sudanese national.
  • He pleaded guilty at Canterbury Crown Court to piloting a boat that put others at risk of death or injury.
  • Ali knew he would enter the UK without valid entry documents.
  • Sentencing is scheduled for June 10.
  • The Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025 introduced the offence Ali was convicted of.
  • Over 7,500 people crossed the English Channel by small boat from France in the first five months of 2026, a drop of 41% compared to the previous year.
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BBC Top Stories
Iran supreme leader: US military bases in Middle East no longer safe after new strikes

Iran supreme leader: US military bases in Middle East no longer safe after new strikes

May 26, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Iran’s supreme leader warned that U.S. military bases in the Middle East are no longer safe following recent strikes. This warning comes as peace talks between President Donald Trump’s administration and Iran face difficulties.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s supreme leader issued a warning about the safety of U.S. bases in the Middle East.
  • The warning followed new military strikes in the region.
  • These events coincide with the start of the annual Muslim pilgrimage called Hajj.
  • Peace negotiations between Iran and the Trump administration are currently unstable.
  • The warning suggests increased tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
  • The Middle East remains a region of strategic military interest for both countries.
  • The Iranian leader’s message was delivered publicly during a significant religious event.
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The Hill
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Tips to get a good night's sleep during hot weather

Tips to get a good night's sleep during hot weather

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The article gives advice on how to sleep well during very hot weather. It suggests keeping a cool bedroom, sticking to normal routines, staying hydrated, and avoiding napping during the day.

Key Facts

  • Hot weather uses more energy in the body, making you feel tired.
  • Avoid daytime naps to keep sleep for nighttime.
  • Keep your bedroom cool by closing curtains during the day and opening windows at night.
  • Use thin cotton sheets and wear loose clothes made of natural fibers like cotton or linen.
  • Using a fan or cooling your feet can help reduce body temperature.
  • Drink enough water but avoid drinking a lot right before bed to prevent waking up at night.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can disrupt sleep.
  • If you can’t sleep, do something calm but avoid phone use because of the stimulating blue light.
  • Keep regular bedtime routines for children, including lukewarm baths before bed.
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BBC Top Stories
The US and China Must Unite on AI To Stop the Next Bio Threat | Opinion

The US and China Must Unite on AI To Stop the Next Bio Threat | Opinion

May 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The United States and China are beginning talks to work together on preventing the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in biological threats, like bioterrorism. Both countries are key players in AI and biotechnology and want to improve security to stop dangerous materials and information from falling into the wrong hands.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping discussed global security issues including AI at a recent summit.
  • The US Treasury Secretary said Washington and Beijing will start conversations about AI misuse by terrorists.
  • Both countries lead in AI and biotechnology and share an interest in reducing biological risks.
  • Preventing biosecurity threats requires cooperation because gaps in either country’s protections can be exploited.
  • Recent meetings between US and Chinese experts resulted in a joint call for stronger safeguards like mandatory DNA synthesis screening.
  • DNA synthesis screening checks that companies do not unknowingly provide genetic material that could be used to create harmful pathogens.
  • The US and China together hold most of the world’s DNA synthesis capacity but neither mandates screening yet.
  • US lawmakers have proposed legislation requiring gene providers to screen orders and customers, which could encourage China to adopt similar rules.
  • AI tools increase access to biological knowledge, so additional AI-focused safeguards are needed to prevent misuse before dangerous materials are ordered.
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Newsweek
Boy with Tourette's refused flight for bomb remark

Boy with Tourette's refused flight for bomb remark

May 26, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

A 13-year-old boy with Tourette syndrome was stopped from boarding a British Airways flight after he shouted the word "bomb" repeatedly due to his condition. The airline denied discrimination, saying the decision was based on safety concerns, and the family had to buy new tickets and stay overnight in a hotel.

Key Facts

  • The boy’s name is Mason, and he has Tourette syndrome, a condition causing uncontrollable sounds or movements called tics.
  • Mason shouted "bomb" multiple times at London Gatwick Airport while trying to board a flight to Spain.
  • British Airways refused Mason and his family entry onto the plane for safety reasons.
  • Armed police escorted Mason and his family out of the airport.
  • The family had warned British Airways of Mason’s condition before traveling.
  • The family spent £4,000 on the original flights and had to pay an additional £2,400 for new flights after being refused boarding.
  • British Airways said the decision was not due to Mason’s disability but because of a security threat involving the word "bomb."
  • Mason’s family hopes the airline will learn from the situation and treat people with disabilities fairly in the future.
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BBC Top Stories
Count the dead bugs on your windshield and contribute to science

Count the dead bugs on your windshield and contribute to science

May 26, 2026 • France24

Summary

French scientists have started a project called "Bugs Matter" to study the decline in insect populations. They are asking drivers to count dead bugs on their windshields during trips and report the data through an app. This will be France’s first large study to track insect numbers across the country.

Key Facts

  • The project is launched by France's National Museum of Natural History.
  • It uses a mobile app named "Bugs Matter" to collect data from drivers.
  • Drivers record how many dead insects are on their windshields after trips.
  • The data will help scientists track changes in insect populations over time.
  • The phenomenon of fewer dead bugs on windshields is called the "windshield phenomenon."
  • This study aims to be the first comprehensive insect population assessment in France.
  • The project started in April 2026.
  • Citizen science means regular people help scientists by collecting information.
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France24
Libyan forces detain Gaza land convoy activists at Sirte checkpoint

Libyan forces detain Gaza land convoy activists at Sirte checkpoint

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Forces aligned with Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar detained members of a convoy carrying aid to Gaza. Activists from Europe and the US responded by sharing video appeals. Rights groups say Haftar's forces have a history of detaining people without reason and using torture.

Key Facts

  • Libyan forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar stopped and detained aid convoy members.
  • The convoy was attempting to deliver humanitarian help to Gaza by land.
  • Activists from Europe and the United States made video messages about the detention.
  • Human rights organizations accuse Haftar’s fighters of unlawful arrests and torture.
  • The detained convoy members were involved in bringing aid to a conflict-affected area.
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Al Jazeera
Israeli attacks on eastern Lebanon village kill at least 12 people

Israeli attacks on eastern Lebanon village kill at least 12 people

May 26, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Israeli air attacks killed at least 12 people and injured others in Mashghara village, eastern Lebanon. The strikes targeted Hezbollah sites across southern Lebanon amid increasing tension despite a recent ceasefire.

Key Facts

  • The attacks hit Mashghara in the Bekaa Valley and other towns in southern Lebanon.
  • Israel said it struck more than 100 Hezbollah locations and fighters.
  • The Israeli military ordered residents in Nabatieh city to evacuate for safety.
  • The air strikes followed Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s order for intensified attacks on Hezbollah.
  • Lebanon has seen over 3,100 deaths and 9,600 injuries from Israeli attacks since early March.
  • More than one million people have been displaced in Lebanon due to the conflict.
  • The conflict involves Hezbollah, a group aligned with Iran, which launched attacks on Israel in early March.
  • The violence is linked to tensions between Israel, Lebanon, Iran, and the United States.
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Al Jazeera
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Iran hangs man over alleged spying for Israel as executions mount

Iran hangs man over alleged spying for Israel as executions mount

May 26, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Iran executed a man named Gholamreza Khani Shakarab who was convicted of spying for Israel’s Mossad agency. This execution is part of a recent increase in Iran’s use of the death penalty in security-related cases following tensions with Israel and the United States.

Key Facts

  • Gholamreza Khani Shakarab was hanged after being found guilty of spying for Israel’s Mossad.
  • The Supreme Court of Iran confirmed his death sentence before the execution.
  • Iranian authorities said he tried to recruit people inside Iran to act against the country’s security.
  • Shakarab was also accused of planning the killing of a Jewish rabbi to blame Iran.
  • He was arrested by intelligence forces linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
  • Iran has increased executions related to national security since a war with Israel and the U.S. began on February 28.
  • Amnesty International reports that Iran has the second-highest number of executions worldwide, after China.
  • In 2025, at least 1,639 people were executed in Iran, including 48 women, according to human rights groups.
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CBS News
I’m a Dentist—These Are the Top 4 Mistakes People Make With Teeth Whitening

I’m a Dentist—These Are the Top 4 Mistakes People Make With Teeth Whitening

May 26, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A dentist explains common mistakes people make when whitening their teeth at home, such as overusing products, expecting quick results, and brushing teeth at the wrong times. These habits can damage the enamel, cause sensitivity, and may make teeth look worse over time.

Key Facts

  • Brushing too much or using whitening products too often can harm tooth enamel and gums.
  • Whitening toothpaste often contains mild abrasives like baking soda or charcoal that remove surface stains but can wear down enamel.
  • Tooth enamel protects sensitive inner parts of teeth; losing enamel causes sensitivity and yellowing.
  • Teeth whitening is a slow process, so quick fixes or trends can be harmful.
  • Some DIY methods, like mixing baking soda with hydrogen peroxide and using mouth guards, can irritate gums or damage teeth.
  • Brushing immediately after whitening treatment can worsen enamel damage because enamel is softer then.
  • Homemade toothpaste recipes using acids like lemon juice or extra baking soda can be more abrasive than store-bought options.
  • Consistency and caution are important when whitening teeth to avoid long-term damage.
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Newsweek
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