Humanitarian group Humanity & Inclusion UK warns that the number of amputees in Gaza could increase because Israel is blocking medical aid. Since a ceasefire in October 2025, thousands of people have already lost limbs, and medical supplies and experts are hard to get into Gaza.
Key Facts
The number of amputees in Gaza is at a record high and may rise further.
Around 5,000 to 6,000 people had amputations by early October 2025, according to the World Health Organization.
Gaza has about 42,000 people with serious, life-changing injuries caused by the conflict.
Israel restricts humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and prosthetics, into Gaza.
Only nine prosthetists (people who make artificial limbs) work in Gaza and face shortages of parts.
International experts cannot enter Gaza to train local medical workers due to restrictions.
Since the ceasefire, over 700 Palestinians have been killed and 2,000 injured, with violence and danger continuing daily.
The United Nations reports that basic movement outside is dangerous for Palestinians due to ongoing violence.
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Ukraine’s defence ministry fired a top commander after photos showed soldiers on the frontline suffering from severe hunger and lack of water. The soldiers had been stuck for months with limited supplies, relying on drones for food deliveries, but conditions have started to improve after the issue gained public attention.
Key Facts
Four Ukrainian soldiers were seen very thin and malnourished after defending a frontline near Kupiansk for eight months.
Supplies of food and medicine were only sent by drone because the area is close to enemy forces.
The soldiers sometimes went up to 17 days without food and had to drink rainwater or melted snow to survive.
The soldiers’ weights dropped from 80-90kg to about 50kg during their time at the front.
Ukraine’s military replaced the commander in charge of feeding the troops and launched an investigation.
The situation improved after the photos were shared publicly, and the soldiers received more food.
Russia targets food and supply deliveries to Ukrainian frontline positions to weaken their forces.
Ukraine is increasingly using unmanned robots to deliver supplies and evacuate injured soldiers in dangerous areas.
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Morgan McSweeney denies bullying civil servants to appoint Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador. McSweeney resigned in February over the appointment but says he only took responsibility for recommending Mandelson. The case will be examined by MPs next week.
Key Facts
Morgan McSweeney denies claims he pressured officials to approve Mandelson’s ambassador appointment.
McSweeney resigned in February after his role in recommending Mandelson became controversial.
McSweeney said he does not recognize the aggressive character shown in media reports.
He told a security forum in Kyiv he took responsibility for the recommendation but rejected bullying claims.
Former Foreign Office chief Olly Robbins said No 10 applied "constant pressure" over Mandelson’s security vetting.
Robbins was fired after overturning a security vetting decision that had denied Mandelson clearance.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer denies pressuring the Foreign Office and rejects accusations of dishonesty.
MPs will hear evidence from McSweeney, Philip Barton, and others about the appointment and vetting process.
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A former top official in the UK government who led Brexit talks says Britain should start discussing rejoining the European Union (EU). He argues that leaving the EU has hurt the UK’s economy and that closer cooperation with Europe is important for the country’s future security and trade.
Key Facts
Philip Rycroft was the permanent secretary of the UK’s Department for Exiting the EU.
He says the UK’s economy has suffered after leaving the EU’s single market.
Promises made during the Brexit campaign have not been fully met, including a hoped-for trade deal with the USA.
Rycroft believes rejoining the EU could take a long time but is worth considering.
There are concerns about the rights and healthcare costs for EU citizens living in the UK after Brexit.
The European Parliament criticized the UK Home Office for cutting funding to charities helping vulnerable EU citizens apply for settled status.
Some UK citizens living in the EU also lack government support.
There is growing support in the UK Labour Party for closer ties or rejoining the EU in the future.
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Tokyo government workers are being encouraged to wear shorts at work this summer to stay cool and reduce the use of air conditioning amid rising energy costs and heat. This move is part of Japan’s broader efforts to save energy, especially due to concerns about oil supply disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.
Key Facts
Tokyo officials want public workers to wear shorts to cope with heat and save energy.
This builds on Japan’s Cool Biz campaign, which started in 2005 and originally encouraged no ties or jackets.
Japan relies on the Middle East for 90% of its oil, mostly transported through the Strait of Hormuz, raising energy security concerns.
The recent conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has increased oil prices and caused fuel shortages.
Japan has released oil from its strategic reserves and is seeking alternate oil sources that avoid the Strait of Hormuz.
Other Asian countries are also reducing energy use by encouraging shorter workweeks or more walking and cycling.
Tokyo’s governor supports casual, comfortable clothing at work to reduce electricity demand during hot weather.
Japan recently experienced its hottest summer on record and has introduced a warning for extreme heat called "kokusho."
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A leaked U.S. Defense Department email reveals that the U.S. is considering actions against NATO allies like Spain and the UK due to their lack of support in a conflict involving Iran. Possible measures include suspending Spain from NATO and reconsidering U.S. support on issues like the Falkland Islands, which are disputed between the UK and Argentina.
Key Facts
The U.S. is frustrated with some NATO allies for not allowing military operations against Iran from their bases.
Spain has denied the U.S. permission to use its bases or airspace for attacks on Iran.
The email suggests suspending Spain from NATO as a symbolic punishment.
The UK initially refused but later allowed U.S. use of bases for defensive actions only.
The U.S. President criticized Spain and the UK for inadequate support in the Iran conflict.
The U.S. also pressured NATO countries to send naval forces to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, which has experienced blockades.
Spain’s Prime Minister said Spain is a reliable NATO member and is not concerned about the email.
The UK reaffirmed its sovereignty over the Falkland Islands and its commitment to self-determination for the islands.
The email does not mention the U.S. leaving NATO or closing its bases in Europe.
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Airlines around the world are canceling flights because the war in the Middle East has made jet fuel more expensive and harder to get. These cancellations are causing more problems beyond just travel delays.
Key Facts
A war in the Middle East is reducing the supply of jet fuel.
Jet fuel prices are increasing because of this shortage.
Airlines are canceling flights due to higher fuel costs and supply issues.
Flight cancellations are happening globally, affecting many travelers.
The impact goes beyond delays and cancellations, likely affecting schedules and costs.
The situation is linked directly to the conflict in the Middle East.
Rising fuel costs can make it harder for airlines to operate normally.
Passengers should be prepared for possible travel disruptions and changes.
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The first global conference focused solely on moving away from fossil fuels is being held in Santa Marta, Colombia, from April 24 to 29, co-hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands. Fifty-four countries and various groups are meeting to create a plan to switch to cleaner energy, while some major fossil fuel producers like the US, China, and India are not attending.
Key Facts
The conference is called the Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels conference.
It is taking place from April 24 to 29, 2024, in Santa Marta, Colombia.
54 countries and several groups including civil society and academics are participating.
Participants represent about one-fifth of global fossil fuel production and one-third of fossil fuel demand.
The conference aims to create a clear plan to move the world economy to low-carbon energy sources like wind and solar power.
This event is separate from the annual UN climate meetings (COP), which require consensus and have struggled to address fossil fuels directly.
Major fossil fuel emitters such as the United States, China, India, Russia, Iran, and Japan are not attending.
The recent oil price surge caused by the Iran conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz is pushing some countries to support renewable energy more strongly.
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In September, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell spoke together at a news conference on Capitol Hill to share their abuse stories and call for transparency about Epstein’s crimes. Their courage to speak out was inspired by the #MeToo movement, which helped many survivors find strength and support to raise awareness about sexual violence.
Key Facts
Dozens of Epstein and Maxwell survivors held a news conference on Capitol Hill in September 2025.
Survivors demanded the release of the Epstein files and public accountability for the harm caused.
Major media outlets broadcasted the survivors’ testimony in full for the first time.
The #MeToo movement, started by Tarana Burke in 2006, gave survivors courage to speak out.
The 2017 #MeToo viral moment raised worldwide awareness about the prevalence of sexual violence.
The movement helped change public attitudes and led to new workplace anti-harassment laws in nearly two dozen US states and Washington DC.
Survivors say speaking together and gaining powerful allies helps them reclaim their power.
Tarana Burke distinguishes between the ongoing movement for survivors and the viral moment of 2017.
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On 8 April 2026, Israeli forces launched a massive airstrike on multiple locations in Lebanon, including Beirut, causing heavy destruction and hundreds of casualties. This attack followed a ceasefire period but was part of a broader pattern of intense conflict involving Israel, Lebanon, and Gaza with major impacts on civilians and infrastructure.
Key Facts
On 8 April 2026, Israel bombed 100 targets in Lebanon, including Beirut, causing at least 357 deaths and over 1,200 injuries.
The Israeli military said it targeted Hezbollah military sites and claimed to have killed more than 250 fighters.
The operation was named "Operation Eternal Darkness" by Israel and called "Black Wednesday" by Lebanese people.
The bombing came after a ceasefire had started between the US-Israel coalition and Iran, which was recently extended to Lebanon.
Israel occupies more than 50 towns in southern Lebanon and has destroyed villages to create buffer zones.
The attack follows a military strategy seen in previous conflicts, including Israel’s 2023 campaign in Gaza involving heavy bombings and forced evacuations.
This strategy aims to weaken militant groups by attacking civilian areas and infrastructure, a method developed over two decades known as the "Dahiyeh doctrine."
The article suggests this kind of destruction is becoming a common tactic in the region’s conflicts, often without strong international opposition.
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The United States and Iran are in a ceasefire but continue to compete for control of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine held a briefing to update on this situation, while President Donald Trump said the U.S. has full control over the strait and threatened military action if Iran places mines there.
Key Facts
The U.S. and Iran have a temporary ceasefire but both try to control shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of the world’s oil supply.
The U.S., following President Trump’s orders, has blocked over 30 ships from Iranian ports.
Iran claims to have collected tolls from ships passing through the strait.
There have been a series of ship interdictions: the U.S. boarded Iran-linked tankers, and Iran attacked or boarded cargo ships.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards released a video claiming to show masked troops boarding cargo ships.
President Trump extended the ceasefire indefinitely but warned he will resume bombing if Iran does not negotiate.
The Israel-Lebanon ceasefire was also extended, with Lebanon playing a possible role in the Iran conflict.
Navy Secretary John Phelan left his position after conflicts, as announced by President Trump.
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Israeli forces carried out explosions in the southern Lebanese town of Khiam even though a ceasefire extension was announced by President Trump. These actions included demolishing homes, which has made parts of the area unlivable.
Key Facts
The explosions happened in Khiam, a town in southern Lebanon.
These events took place despite a ceasefire extension announced by President Trump.
Israeli forces carried out these explosions.
Homes were demolished during these actions.
The demolition made the area difficult or impossible for people to live in.
Smoke was seen rising from the town following the explosions.
The ceasefire was intended to pause fighting in the region.
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This BBC Newscast episode discusses the latest events in the UK election campaign. The hosts talk about why public services are a major topic, the possible effects if nationalist parties gain many seats, and a unique campaign tactic involving canned cocktails.
Key Facts
The episode focuses on recent developments in the UK elections.
Public services are a key issue in the election debates.
Nationalist parties may have significant success in the upcoming elections.
Eluned Morgan is using canned cocktails to explain voting methods in the campaign.
The program provides daily political news analysis from the BBC.
The episode is presented by Adam Fleming and produced by a BBC team.
Listeners can access Newscast on smart speakers and through online platforms.
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Mexican soldiers arrested ten members of a faction linked to drug lord Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman’s brother, Aureliano Guzman Loera, also known as "El Guano." The operation used intelligence from the United States and took place in a mountainous area between Durango and Sinaloa states.
Key Facts
Ten members tied to Aureliano Guzman Loera of the Sinaloa cartel were captured.
Among those caught were his closest allies, including his right-hand man and bodyguard.
The operation was supported by U.S. intelligence.
The arrests happened near Tamazula, where "El Guano" had strong influence.
The U.S. State Department offers $5 million for information leading to Aureliano Guzman’s capture.
President Donald Trump has offered military aid to Mexico to fight drug cartels, which Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has mostly declined.
Two U.S. CIA agents died in a car crash after a raid on a drug lab in Mexico, causing tensions between the two countries.
Mexican forces have recently dismantled several drug labs amid efforts to reduce drug trafficking.
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The article compares the public reactions to Michael Jackson's new movie and Kanye West's recent controversies. Jackson’s movie is doing well despite past abuse allegations, while West faces cancellations due to his antisemitic remarks, though he still has some upcoming shows.
Key Facts
A biopic about Michael Jackson called "Michael," approved by his estate and starring his nephew, opened with strong box office numbers despite poor reviews.
Michael Jackson’s legacy includes serious child sex abuse allegations that still affect how people view him.
Kanye West, now known as Ye, has been blocked from entering the U.K. and had several concert dates canceled due to his antisemitic statements.
West apologized publicly but continues to have scheduled performances, including a major music festival in Italy.
The public’s responses to wrongdoing by artists vary depending on factors like fan loyalty and whether the artist is alive or deceased.
Some experts say fans often separate their support for an artist’s work from their personal actions.
Jackson’s family members support the movie and see the strong fan reaction as positive.
Similar controversies have affected other artists, showing inconsistent public and industry reactions to serious offenses.
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A physically healthy British woman named Wendy Duffy will end her life by assisted suicide at a Swiss clinic after losing her only son four years ago. Her decision has sparked debate in the press while the UK's assisted dying bill remains stalled in Parliament.
Key Facts
Wendy Duffy is a 56-year-old British woman who lost her only son four years ago.
She is physically healthy and mentally sound but has chosen assisted suicide due to grief.
Duffy will legally end her life at a clinic in Switzerland this Friday.
She paid £10,000 to the clinic for the procedure.
The UK’s assisted dying bill, which would allow terminally ill adults to request help ending their life, is currently stalled in the House of Lords.
The case has divided public opinion and media coverage, with some expressing sadness and others criticizing assisted suicide.
Assisted suicide is legal in Switzerland but not fully legalized in the UK.
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Divers off the northern coast of Jamaica are installing underwater speakers that play sounds of healthy coral reefs to attract marine life back to dying reefs. This method, called acoustic enrichment, is based on research showing that reef sounds help fish and coral organisms find a safe home, potentially aiding reef recovery.
Key Facts
Divers are using waterproof speakers underwater to play recorded sounds of healthy coral reefs for about 14 hours each day.
The sound plays a mix of noises from snapping shrimp, fish, and currents, which healthy reefs naturally produce.
Coral reefs are important ecosystems that cover 1% of the ocean floor but support 25% of marine life.
Since 1950, about half of the world’s coral reefs have been lost due to pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
Rising ocean temperatures cause coral bleaching, where corals lose essential algae and become vulnerable to disease.
A study on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef showed that playing reef sounds doubled fish populations and increased species variety by 50% in damaged areas.
The project in Jamaica works with the local Alligator Head Foundation to help restore reefs using sound and other conservation methods.
Solar panels on the water’s surface power the underwater speakers.
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Jeffrey Epstein kept some of his alleged victims in apartments in London after the Metropolitan Police chose not to investigate him. Evidence from documents shows Epstein was in contact with women living in these flats and that some were brought to the UK after claims of trafficking were made.
Key Facts
Epstein housed several women in four flats in the Kensington and Chelsea area of London.
Six women who stayed in these flats have accused Epstein of sexual abuse.
Some women came from Russia and eastern Europe and were brought to the UK after police declined to investigate trafficking claims made by Virginia Giuffre in 2015.
Virginia Giuffre alleges that she was trafficked by Epstein and was abused in London, including claims involving Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, who denies the allegations.
Epstein’s documents from 2018-2019 include emails and receipts showing his communication with women in London flats.
Epstein reportedly used harsh language toward women when they complained about living conditions and sent pictures of models to him.
He funded at least five women on student visas to study in London.
Files about Epstein’s activities were made public following a US law signed by President Trump, called the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
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NATO says its founding treaty does not allow for suspending or kicking out member countries, responding to a report about a leaked US Pentagon email suggesting punishing Spain for not supporting US actions against Iran. Spain and other NATO members have said they support cooperation but only within international law, and some countries are cautious about increasing their role in the conflict with Iran.
Key Facts
NATO confirmed there is no rule for suspending or expelling members from the alliance.
A leaked Pentagon email reportedly suggested the US could punish Spain for not backing US moves against Iran.
Spain refused to let the US use its air bases for attacks on Iran.
The US has two military bases in Spain: Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said their policies are based on official government positions, not emails.
The email also mentioned reviewing the US position on the Falkland Islands, disputed by Argentina and the UK.
The US is considering limiting support to allies seen as not cooperating fully with its military efforts.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said greater involvement against Iran is not in the UK’s interest, despite British support for some US strikes from UK bases.
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More than a dozen tornadoes were reported across the central United States on Thursday night, with a strong tornado hitting northwest Oklahoma. These severe storms are part of ongoing dangerous weather across the Plains region.
Key Facts
Over twelve tornadoes occurred across the central U.S. on one night.
One of the tornadoes was especially powerful in northwest Oklahoma.
The storms are linked to severe weather affecting the Plains states.
Tornadoes are rotating columns of air extending from thunderstorms.
This event is part of a series of dangerous weather patterns in the area.
The early report came on April 24, 2026.
Local authorities and weather services are monitoring the situation.
Tornadoes can cause significant damage and pose risks to people and property.
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