Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has promised to address companies that are charging unfairly high prices for heating oil in Northern Ireland. The government plans to take action if these companies inflate prices without good reason, affecting many households that rely on heating oil.
Key Facts
Sir Keir Starmer is the Prime Minister.
He visited Northern Ireland to discuss high heating oil prices caused by Middle East conflicts.
Over 62% of homes in Northern Ireland use oil for heating.
Oil prices have more than doubled due to recent global tensions.
The UK government plans to act if companies charge unfair prices.
The Competition and Markets Authority is investigating potential consumer protection issues.
Local MPs seek additional financial support for families facing high energy costs.
The article explains heart palpitations after eating, a common sensation where the heart feels like it's racing or pounding. These palpitations can be influenced by food choices, the body's process of redirecting blood during digestion, and certain health conditions.
Key Facts
Heart palpitations occur when the heart beats fast, skips, or feels like it's fluttering.
More common in middle-aged and older adults, with women reporting them more due to hormonal changes.
Eating requires more blood flow to the stomach, which can increase heart rate.
Foods high in sugar, carbs, sodium, saturated fat, capsaicin, and caffeine can trigger palpitations.
Stress, anxiety, thyroid disorders, and heart conditions can also increase palpitations.
A new poll shows that most likely voters think President Donald Trump started the conflict with Iran partly to draw attention away from the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. The Department of Justice released over 3 million pages of Epstein-related documents, prompting discussion about the timing and the information disclosed. The poll also indicates varying opinions among political parties about the motivations behind the military action against Iran.
Key Facts
President Trump initiated Operation Epic Fury against Iran on February 28.
Over 1,300 people died in U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Iran, according to Iranian officials.
A poll found 52% of likely voters think the Iran conflict aimed to distract from the Epstein files.
81% of Democrats and 52% of independents believe the Epstein files influenced Trump's actions against Iran.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act has made over 3 million pages of documents available to the public.
About 140 U.S. service members have been injured, and at least 7 have died in the conflict with Iran.
The horror/comedy movie "Scared to Death" features newcomer Kurt Deimer and well-known horror actress Lin Shaye. Lin Shaye is famous for her roles in many horror films, especially the "Insidious" series. "Scared to Death" will be in theaters on February 13.
Key Facts
"Scared to Death" is a horror/comedy movie.
Kurt Deimer is a newcomer playing a character called "The Grog" in the movie.
Lin Shaye is a well-known horror film actress who stars in "Scared to Death."
The movie involves a fake seance turning into a real horror experience.
Lin Shaye is also known for her roles in the "Insidious" series, which has grossed over $731 million globally.
"Scared to Death" is written and directed by Paul Boyd.
The movie will be released in theaters on February 13.
An accountant for Jeffrey Epstein's estate told investigators about a settlement with a woman who also accused President Donald Trump. The estate has been paying large sums to resolve claims from victims of Epstein's abuse. The investigation is part of a wider look into Epstein's finances and connections.
Key Facts
Richard Kahn, an accountant and co-executor of Epstein’s estate, spoke to House investigators about a settlement involving accusations linked to President Trump.
The estate has paid more than $100 million to victims through a compensation program.
Democratic lawmaker Ro Khanna shared details about the settlement after a closed-door meeting.
Republican Representative James Comer stated that Kahn had not seen any transactions involving Trump or his family.
Kahn mentioned five clients who paid money to Epstein.
Kahn testified he was unaware of Epstein’s abuse until after Epstein’s death and would have quit if he had known.
Epstein’s estate agreed to pay up to $35 million to settle additional claims from victims.
The victim compensation fund distributed about $125 million before ending in 2021.
Babyfxce E, a rapper from Flint, Michigan, shares how his music career began as a hobby and evolved with support from family and friends. His latest album, "Da Realest," reflects his commitment to honesty and storytelling. He describes his creative process, driven by his fans, and highlights how his freestyle background and instinctive recording method contribute to his music.
Key Facts
Babyfxce E is a rapper from Flint, Michigan.
His new album is called "Da Realest."
Music began as a hobby for him before it became a career.
He credits his family and friends for supporting his rise in music.
Babyfxce E's music is inspired by fan feedback.
He uses a recording method called "punch-in," doing lines one at a time.
His background in freestyling helps him with his music style.
Critics have praised his clever and layered lyrics.
President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. had won a conflict with Iran, claiming American forces disabled Iranian naval vessels and air force. He also stated that Iran's nuclear potential was eliminated but later resumed, prompting further actions. The ongoing conflict has affected global trade and energy markets.
Key Facts
President Trump stated that U.S. forces knocked out 58 Iranian naval vessels and eliminated its air force.
Trump declared victory in the conflict shortly after it began.
He mentioned that strikes last summer destroyed Iran's nuclear capabilities.
Iran resumed nuclear activities, prompting renewed military action from the U.S.
The conflict has disrupted trade routes and affected fuel and fertilizer shipments.
Global energy prices are a concern due to the conflict in the Persian Gulf.
Trump plans to use the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help reduce oil prices.
Iran has attacked commercial ships and targeted Dubai International Airport, increasing tensions.
Season 4 of "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," a show featuring the #MomTok group, will release on March 12, 2026. All 10 episodes will be available to stream on Hulu and Disney+ starting at midnight Pacific Time.
Key Facts
"The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" Season 4 will be available on March 12, 2026.
You can watch it on Hulu and Disney+.
It will be available from 12 a.m. PT/3 a.m. ET.
A Hulu subscription costs $9.99 per month.
The Disney Bundle, which includes Hulu, starts at $16.99 per month.
Season 4 features themes of friendship amid growing fame.
A fifth season has already been confirmed.
All 10 episodes of Season 4 will be released at once.
President Donald Trump has given different statements about a bombing at an Iranian school that killed over 170 people. A report suggests the U.S. military was involved, but Trump claims not to know the details. The attack is part of the ongoing conflict involving the U.S. and Iran.
Key Facts
A bombing at an Iranian school killed over 170 people, mostly children.
President Trump initially blamed Iran for the attack but later claimed he was unsure about the details.
A Department of Defense investigation found the U.S. military might be responsible.
Trump mentioned that Iran also has Tomahawk missiles, a claim experts dispute.
The U.S. has sold Tomahawk missiles to allies, but not to Iran due to sanctions.
Republican Senator John Kennedy stated the U.S. was behind the strike but called it a mistake.
The Senate Democrats requested more information from the Secretary of Defense on the incident.
The U.S. military confirmed using Tomahawk missiles in strikes against Iran.
Iran has increased tensions in the Middle East by attacking commercial ships and targeting Dubai International Airport. These actions followed Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on Iran, disrupting trade and travel in the region. The U.N. Security Council voted to demand Iran stop its aggressive actions against its neighbors.
Key Facts
Iran attacked commercial ships and the Dubai International Airport.
These attacks are in response to Israeli and U.S. airstrikes that began 12 days ago.
Iran's actions have disrupted trade routes and threatened air traffic in the Persian Gulf.
Israeli intelligence reports that Iran's new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, was injured in an airstrike.
Over 750,000 people are displaced in Lebanon due to the conflict.
The U.N. Security Council passed a resolution demanding Iran stop attacking its neighbors.
At least 12 incidents involving ships have occurred in the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began.
A Thai cargo ship was hit by a projectile off the coast of Oman.
Britain is set to end a long-standing tradition by removing hereditary nobles from the House of Lords. This change comes after Parliament passed legislation to oust these members who held positions through inherited titles. This move aims to make the House of Lords more democratic and based on merit.
Key Facts
The British Parliament voted to remove hereditary aristocrats from the House of Lords.
The House of Lords has about 800 members, making it the second-largest legislative body in the world.
Hereditary peers inherited their seats alongside their noble titles.
Life peers, appointed by the government, now form the majority of the chamber.
This reform is part of efforts to make the House of Lords more democratic.
The change will become official once King Charles III gives royal assent.
The current Labour government wants a more representative second chamber eventually.
Historically, the House of Lords included mostly noblemen and some bishops.
The U.S. and Israel are involved in cyber conflicts with Iran alongside their military actions. These cyberattacks involve disruptions to companies and infrastructure. U.S. and Israeli cyber activities target Iranian systems, while Iran and allied groups retaliate with their cyber efforts.
Key Facts
A cyberattack linked to Iranian hackers affected Stryker, a U.S. medical tech company, but was contained without signs of malware.
A hacker group claimed to have attacked Verifone, a U.S. payments firm, but no breach evidence was found.
Israel targeted Iranian military sites, including cyber and intelligence headquarters.
Iran is experiencing limited internet access due to ongoing military and cyber actions.
Iranian-aligned hackers have increased attacks in the Middle East, U.S., and Asia.
Iranian and Russian hackers partnered to attack Israeli systems, though some claims are unverified.
Iran uses cyber operations due to limited conventional military options against the U.S. and Israel.
Israel reportedly hacked an Iranian app and gained access to Tehran's traffic cameras for strategic purposes.
The new U.S. ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, was summoned by the South African government for making comments they considered "undiplomatic" about a controversial anti-apartheid chant. The ambassador initially criticized a court ruling on the chant, which some view as hate speech. He later apologized and expressed a desire to work cooperatively with South Africa.
Key Facts
The U.S. ambassador to South Africa made comments about a controversial anti-apartheid chant.
The South African government summoned the ambassador over his remarks, considering them "undiplomatic."
The chant in question is called "Kill The Boer," which the Constitutional Court previously ruled is not hate speech.
The ambassador initially disagreed with this legal ruling and expressed disregard for the court's decision.
The South African government issued a formal protest, known as a demarche.
The ambassador later apologized and affirmed respect for South Africa's legal system.
U.S.-South Africa relations have been strained since President Trump took office, with disagreements on various issues.
Tensions include criticism of South Africa's land reform plans and U.S. tariffs on South Africa.
Category: world
A Brazilian psychologist named Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto, who was visiting the UK, has been missing since early March. Police think she may have taken a boat from a boatyard in Essex, as a person resembling her was seen on security footage in the area. The boat was later found adrift, and police are searching for her along the Essex coastline.
Key Facts
Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto is a 30-year-old clinical psychologist from Fortaleza, Brazil.
She went missing after meeting a friend on 3 March in Essex, UK.
CCTV footage shows someone, believed to be Barreto, entering a boatyard and possibly taking a boat.
The boat was discovered adrift near Bradwell-on-Sea and returned to Brightlingsea.
Police have been searching land and coastline areas around the River Blackwater and other sites.
They are asking local boat owners to check their vessels and seek additional footage from the area.
Barreto had attended a conference in Morocco before coming to the UK in February for a research project.
Her friend noted Barreto was unusually quiet before she went missing.
A New Mexico lawmaker announced that a recent search at Jeffrey Epstein's former ranch is a key part of an investigation into alleged illegal activities. The state's Department of Justice is leading the probe, while a "Truth Commission" will conduct an independent review. The investigation aims to uncover evidence related to crimes Epstein may have committed on the property.
Key Facts
The investigation is focused on Jeffrey Epstein’s former ranch in New Mexico, called Zorro Ranch.
A recent search of the ranch is part of a criminal investigation by the New Mexico Department of Justice.
The New Mexico House of Representatives set up a "Truth Commission" to investigate alleged crimes at the ranch.
The Truth Commission has a $2 million budget and can hold hearings and issue subpoenas.
The ranch, now called San Rafael Ranch, is owned by a Republican who bought it after Epstein's death.
Agents, including state police and deputies, searched the property with cooperation from the current owners.
There were claims that New Mexico authorities once received a tip about potential dead bodies on the ranch, leading to renewed interest in investigating.
Jeffrey Epstein purchased the ranch in 1993, and allegations of crimes there have persisted since his arrest and subsequent death in 2019.
The UN Security Council approved a resolution from the Gulf Cooperation Council urging Iran to stop attacks on Gulf countries. The resolution passed with 13 votes in favor, while two countries chose not to vote for or against it. No country voted against the resolution.
Key Facts
The UN Security Council approved a resolution from Gulf countries.
The resolution asks Iran to stop its attacks on Gulf nations.
Thirteen countries voted in favor of the resolution.
Two countries abstained, meaning they did not vote yes or no.
Ecuador plans to launch a major military operation against criminal groups in the country. The United States is supporting Ecuador in this effort, focusing on stopping illegal activities like drug trafficking. Ecuador has also imposed a curfew in certain areas to help the military operations proceed safely.
Key Facts
Ecuador is preparing a military offensive against criminal networks.
The United States is providing support, mainly with military logistics and intelligence.
The operation targets illegal mining and drug trafficking.
A curfew is in place in four provinces of Ecuador to ensure civilian safety.
President Daniel Noboa aligns closely with U.S. policies, particularly those of President Donald Trump.
Noboa has acted to expel Cuban diplomats and impose tariffs on Colombia, echoing the U.S.'s hardline stance.
Key U.S. officials have visited Ecuador to discuss security issues in the region.
President Trump has encouraged Latin American countries to take strong actions against local criminal organizations.
Powerful storms in northwestern Indiana and Kankakee, Illinois, produced tornadoes that resulted in two deaths and significant property damage. The storms brought heavy rain, strong winds, and large hail, leading to flooding and power outages in the region. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, and some areas remain under a tornado watch.
Key Facts
Tornadoes killed at least two people in northwestern Indiana.
Kankakee, Illinois, saw buildings destroyed due to the storms.
The National Weather Service reported at least four tornadoes in the area.
The storms caused significant damage, including shattered windows and uprooted trees.
Heavy rain led to flooded streets and stranded cars in western Michigan.
In Lake Village, Indiana, approximately 70 utility poles were knocked down.
Around 4,300 customers were without power following the storm.
Giant hailstones up to 6 inches in diameter fell in Kankakee, Illinois.
Families from southern Lebanon moved to a school in Sidon to escape attacks from Israel. The Lebanese government reports that over 630 people have died, and more than 800,000 people have left their homes since early March.
Key Facts
Families fled their homes in southern Lebanon due to Israeli attacks.
They found shelter in a school in Sidon.
Over 630 people have died according to the Lebanese government.
More than 800,000 people have been displaced since early March.
The events are part of ongoing tension in the region.
President Trump announced that the U.S. will release oil from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help lower gasoline prices affected by disruptions from the Iran war. This comes as global oil supply is significantly impacted and gas prices rise, prompting measures to stabilize the market.
Key Facts
President Trump plans to use the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve to manage rising gas prices due to the Iran war.
The Iran conflict has disrupted 20% of global oil supply, affecting price stability.
The average gas price in the U.S. is $3.578 per gallon as of the announcement.
The International Energy Agency suggested a joint effort by governments to release oil for price stabilization.
The U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve has about 415 million barrels of oil, its lowest level in decades.
There are plans to potentially use U.S. Navy ships to protect oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strategic Petroleum Reserve is a backup for oil supply issues caused by crises, disputes, or disasters.
In 2022, President Biden sold a significant portion of the reserve to counteract oil price hikes after the Ukraine invasion.
