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Woman, 86, orphaned as child opens prized garden to public to fulfill lifelong promise

Woman, 86, orphaned as child opens prized garden to public to fulfill lifelong promise

Summary

Ann Lush, 86, who grew up as an orphan, has spent 30 years opening her garden to the public to raise money for a children's charity. She has raised over £130,000 through an annual garden event that started with her late husband in 1996, allowing visitors to enjoy peaceful garden spaces while supporting young people in need.

Key Facts

  • Ann Lush was raised by her grandmother after becoming an orphan as a child.
  • She promised as a child to help any child she could and to welcome everyone if she had a home.
  • Ann and her late husband Dennis began the Penarth Open Gardens event in 1996.
  • Visitors pay £1 each to enter her garden and other participating gardens, with dozens involved yearly.
  • The event has raised more than £130,000 for The Children’s Society, a charity supporting young people.
  • Around 600 people visited her garden during the latest event, raising about £3,000.
  • Ann describes her garden as a peaceful and serene place that visitors enjoy returning to.
  • Ann and Dennis received MBEs for their charity work.
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Public executions in Iran spark anti-regime protests

Public executions in Iran spark anti-regime protests

Summary

Iran publicly executed two protesters in Isfahan on July 28, 2026, who were accused of killing four police officers during protests in January 2026. The executions sparked protests and anti-police chants, leading authorities to use force to disperse the crowd.

Key Facts

  • Two men, Abolfazl Sepahi and Amir Safari, were publicly hanged in Isfahan for the deaths of four police officers.
  • The executions followed protests in January 2026 against the Iranian regime.
  • A makeshift execution stage was set up in Alikhani Square for the public event.
  • Hundreds gathered but chanted against the police instead of supporting the execution.
  • Police used Tasers, tear gas, and warning shots to break up the crowd.
  • Online petitions against the death penalty gained about 500,000 signatures in one day.
  • Prisoners at Ghezel Hesar prison protested with a hunger strike, holding signs against executions.
  • Amnesty International reported over 2,159 executions in Iran in 2025, many related to drug crimes.
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America’s relationship with Israel is changing — and that’s okay

America’s relationship with Israel is changing — and that’s okay

Summary

The article discusses the evolving relationship between the United States and Israel. It explains that while Israel remains a close ally, the dynamic between the two countries is changing, which is a natural part of their long-term friendship.

Key Facts

  • Israel is considered America's closest ally in the Middle East.
  • The relationship includes strong political, military, and economic ties.
  • There are moments when the U.S. feels frustrated with Israel's actions or policies.
  • Changes in leadership and regional issues influence how the two countries interact.
  • The article suggests that adjustments in their relationship are normal and expected.
  • Both countries continue to work together despite differences.
  • The U.S.-Israel relationship is important for regional stability and mutual interests.
  • Evolving partnerships can help both nations address new challenges.
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Fragile peace in Syria’s Set Zaynab as sectarian challenges persist

Fragile peace in Syria’s Set Zaynab as sectarian challenges persist

Summary

The Syrian town of Set Zaynab, known for its important Shia shrine, faces ongoing security concerns and lower tourism after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024. Although the area is mostly stable now and religious harmony exists between Shia and Sunni Muslims, residents remain cautious due to past bombings and attacks by ISIL.

Key Facts

  • Set Zaynab is famous for the shrine of Sayyida Zaynab, an important figure in Shia Islam.
  • Before December 2024, many Shia pilgrims, mainly from Iraq, visited Set Zaynab, supporting local businesses.
  • After President Assad’s regime ended and he went into exile, tourism and local business in Set Zaynab dropped sharply.
  • The new Syrian government has stopped ISIL attacks in Set Zaynab and arrested suspects linked to bombings.
  • ISIL claimed responsibility for the killing of a Shia cleric in Set Zaynab in May.
  • Iranian forces and Hezbollah used to help protect Set Zaynab during Assad’s rule.
  • Residents feel the area is mostly safe but do not yet encourage many outsiders to visit.
  • People in Set Zaynab say there is peaceful co-existence between Shia and Sunni Muslims despite the country’s recent sectarian fighting.
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A look at the aftermath in Japan following deadly earthquake

A look at the aftermath in Japan following deadly earthquake

Summary

A strong earthquake hit southwestern Japan on Tuesday, causing at least 18 deaths. Rescue teams continue to look for survivors, including in a shopping center that collapsed from an explosion about an hour after the quake.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake struck southwestern Japan on Tuesday.
  • At least 18 people have died because of the earthquake.
  • A shopping center collapsed due to an explosion after the quake.
  • Four people died inside the collapsed shopping center.
  • Rescuers are still searching for survivors in the affected areas.
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Saudi Arabia executes 5 Ethiopians over drug-related charges, rights group says

Saudi Arabia executes 5 Ethiopians over drug-related charges, rights group says

Summary

Saudi Arabia executed five Ethiopian migrants this week on drug-related charges after very short trials without translators or legal help, according to Human Rights Watch. At least 79 other Ethiopians face the risk of execution on similar charges, while Ethiopia’s government is seeking information and engagement with Saudi authorities.

Key Facts

  • Five Ethiopians were executed in Saudi Arabia for possessing hashish, a form of cannabis.
  • The trials reportedly lasted only a few minutes and lacked translators and lawyers.
  • Human Rights Watch says at least 79 Ethiopians remain at imminent risk of execution in Saudi Arabia for drug charges.
  • Saudi Arabia is one of the top countries in the world for carrying out executions.
  • Many Ethiopian migrants go to Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia looking for work.
  • Ethiopia’s Foreign Ministry is working with Saudi Arabia about legal cases involving Ethiopian nationals.
  • The Ethiopian Orthodox Church has appealed to Saudi Arabia to stop executing Ethiopian citizens.
  • Human Rights Watch states that Saudi Arabia’s death penalty use violates international human rights laws protecting the right to life.
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Ugandan opposition figure Besigye collapses in the dock during treason trial

Ugandan opposition figure Besigye collapses in the dock during treason trial

Summary

Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye collapsed in court during his treason trial and has been detained without bail for months. He faces charges of plotting to overthrow President Yoweri Museveni's government, with court proceedings paused after the incident.

Key Facts

  • Kizza Besigye is a 69-year-old opposition leader and four-time presidential candidate in Uganda.
  • Besigye collapsed in court during his treason trial and shouted “stop” before falling.
  • He has been held without bail for several months in a maximum-security prison.
  • Besigye’s lawyer, Erias Lukwago, was also arrested on related charges.
  • Prosecutors say they have evidence Besigye planned to overthrow President Museveni.
  • His wife, Winnie Byanyima, says Besigye’s health is failing and calls for him to see a doctor of his choice.
  • Besigye was once a close ally and personal doctor to Museveni before becoming an opponent.
  • President Museveni is serving his seventh term after controversial elections, and his main challenger Bobi Wine is now in exile.
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2025 was deadliest year for antisemitic attacks in 30 years, study says

2025 was deadliest year for antisemitic attacks in 30 years, study says

Summary

A report found that 2025 was the deadliest year for antisemitic attacks outside Israel in over 30 years, with 20 people killed in Australia, the UK, and the US. Antisemitic incidents rose sharply in seven countries with large Jewish communities, showing a significant increase in violence and hate crimes compared to previous years.

Key Facts

  • In 2025, 20 people died in antisemitic attacks in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
  • The J7 Large Communities' Task Force Against Antisemitism studied these attacks across seven countries with large Jewish populations.
  • The deadliest single incident was the shooting at a Hanukkah celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where 15 people were killed.
  • Other attacks included killings at a synagogue in Manchester, UK, and shootings at a Jewish museum and Israeli embassy staff in Washington D.C., USA.
  • Antisemitic incidents rose by 136% from 2022 to 2025, with violent attacks increasing by 97%.
  • Antisemitic incidents increased in the UK, Argentina, and Germany but decreased in the US, Australia, Canada, and France compared to 2024.
  • The rise in antisemitism is linked to tensions after the October 7, 2024, Hamas attack on Israel.
  • The J7 group called for better government actions, including more security, stronger laws, and stricter social media rules to prevent antisemitism.
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Is World Cup sell-off plan a step too far by Infantino?

Is World Cup sell-off plan a step too far by Infantino?

Summary

Fifa president Gianni Infantino plans to sell stakes in Fifa competitions, including the World Cup, to private investors linked to US President Donald Trump. This move aims to provide $20 million to all Fifa member countries to develop football but has caused anger among fans, politicians, and football organizations.

Key Facts

  • Gianni Infantino has been Fifa president since 2016.
  • The proposal involves selling parts of Fifa competitions to investors, including those connected to President Trump.
  • The sale would give $20 million to each Fifa member country for football development.
  • Infantino has support from many countries in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, who benefit financially from his policies.
  • Fifa's 211 members vote on decisions, needing a simple majority for approval.
  • Investors include Thrive Capital, led by Josh Kushner, related to Trump's family, and Greg Maffei, a Trump political donor, as commercial advisor.
  • Infantino has a close relationship with President Trump, including awarding Trump a Fifa Peace Prize and opening a Fifa office in Trump Tower.
  • The plan has caused strong opposition from fans, politicians, and regional football bodies who say they were not consulted properly.
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'Two options' for Trump in Middle East war: 'he waits or he escalates massively'

'Two options' for Trump in Middle East war: 'he waits or he escalates massively'

Summary

President Donald Trump said on Fox News that the US and Saudi Arabia worked together with Iraq to carry out attacks on Iran-backed Iraqi militias. However, Iraq condemned the strikes as a serious violation and its prime minister canceled a meeting with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince because of the attacks.

Key Facts

  • The US, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq coordinated attacks on Iraqi militias backed by Iran.
  • Iraq described the strikes as a "blatant violation" of its sovereignty.
  • Iraq’s prime minister canceled a planned meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman due to the attacks.
  • President Trump confirmed the coordination publicly on Fox News.
  • The attacks happened amid ongoing struggles to end the conflict between the US and Iran.
  • The situation has increased tensions between Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the US.
  • The conflict involves wider regional issues linked to Iran’s influence in the Middle East.
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Drones and bulldozers: how the army is helping battle the blaze in France's southwest

Drones and bulldozers: how the army is helping battle the blaze in France's southwest

Summary

The French army has sent about 1,500 soldiers to help fight a large wildfire in southwest France's Gironde region. They use tools like drones and bulldozers to support firefighters by clearing paths, spotting danger spots, and locating people trapped by the fire.

Key Facts

  • Around 1,500 French soldiers are involved in battling the Gironde wildfire.
  • The army assists local firefighters with practical support.
  • Bulldozers help widen forest trails for better access.
  • Drones are used to find hotspots and monitor the fire.
  • Soldiers help find civilians trapped by the flames.
  • The army also looks out for potential looters during the disaster.
  • Reporters were allowed to accompany some soldiers to show their work.
  • The wildfire continues despite efforts to control it.
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French wildfires: FRANCE 24 goes on the ground with firefighters

French wildfires: FRANCE 24 goes on the ground with firefighters

Summary

A large wildfire in southwest France's Gironde region remains stable after a second calm night. Firefighters continue to work on the ground as a fourth heatwave, with temperatures expected to rise above 40°C, threatens to worsen the situation.

Key Facts

  • The wildfire is located in the southwest part of France, specifically in the Gironde area.
  • Authorities reported that the fire was stable after two calm nights.
  • A fourth heatwave is expected soon, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
  • Firefighters are actively fighting the blaze on the ground.
  • The hot weather could make firefighting efforts more difficult.
  • The article includes a video featuring firefighters working near sensitive areas.
  • France is planning how to rebuild forests damaged by the fires.
  • Volunteers are helping protect forest wildlife affected by the fires.
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Trump and Zelenskyy find common ground on Russia-Ukraine war during White House meeting

Trump and Zelenskyy find common ground on Russia-Ukraine war during White House meeting

Summary

President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met at the White House and had a positive discussion. They talked about missile defense support and efforts to handle the conflict with Russia through diplomacy.

Key Facts

  • President Trump and President Zelenskyy met at the White House.
  • They discussed licenses for Patriot interceptor missiles, which help defend against missile attacks.
  • The leaders talked about diplomatic ways to address the Russia-Ukraine war.
  • Both presidents described their meeting as going well.
  • The discussion focused on support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
  • The meeting was covered by CBS News and reported by correspondent Aidan Stretch.
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Glen Hansard, Oscar-winning singer-songwriter, killed in Dublin crash

Glen Hansard, Oscar-winning singer-songwriter, killed in Dublin crash

Summary

Glen Hansard, an Irish singer-songwriter and actor who won an Oscar in 2008 for best original song, died in a motorcycle crash near Dublin at age 56. He was known for his music career with bands like The Frames and The Swell Season and for his work on the film "Once."

Key Facts

  • Glen Hansard died in a motorcycle accident early Wednesday near Dublin.
  • He was 56 years old and from Dublin, Ireland.
  • Hansard won an Academy Award in 2008 for the song "Falling Slowly" from the movie "Once."
  • He acted in films including "The Commitments" and "Once."
  • He was lead singer of the band The Frames and part of the duo The Swell Season.
  • Hansard released five solo albums, with one Grammy-nominated folk album.
  • He was involved in charity events supporting homelessness in Dublin.
  • Hansard is survived by his wife and a young son.
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U.S. and Saudi Arabia strike Iran-backed groups in Iraq, CENTCOM stops Iran's "surprise attack"

U.S. and Saudi Arabia strike Iran-backed groups in Iraq, CENTCOM stops Iran's "surprise attack"

Summary

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said it prevented a surprise attack by Iran in the Middle East. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia also carried out military strikes against groups in Iraq that are supported by Iran.

Key Facts

  • The Middle East experienced new fighting after several days of calm.
  • CENTCOM reported stopping a surprise attack by Iran.
  • The U.S. worked together with Saudi Arabia on military strikes.
  • The strikes targeted Iran-backed groups located in Iraq.
  • The action involved both the U.S. and Saudi Arabian forces.
  • The situation reflects ongoing tensions involving Iran and its allies in the region.
  • The military response aims to address threats coming from Iran-backed groups.
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Huge wildfires in Europe force thousands to evacuate as flames grow

Huge wildfires in Europe force thousands to evacuate as flames grow

Summary

Large wildfires are burning in parts of France and Spain, forcing thousands of people to leave their homes to stay safe. The fires are spreading quickly and causing serious concerns for residents and authorities.

Key Facts

  • Wildfires are affecting regions in both France and Spain.
  • Thousands of people have been evacuated to avoid danger.
  • The fires continue to grow and spread rapidly.
  • Local officials and emergency services are involved in evacuation efforts.
  • Hot, dry weather conditions are contributing to the wildfires.
  • The situation remains serious as firefighters work to control the flames.
  • Authorities are monitoring the fires closely to protect communities.
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Newly released surveillance video appears to show missing American in Grenada

Newly released surveillance video appears to show missing American in Grenada

Summary

Newly released video shows Elizabeth Waddell, a missing American woman from North Carolina, entering the water in Grenada. She was seen later far from shore on Jet Skis but did not return to land.

Key Facts

  • Elizabeth Waddell is a missing American woman from North Carolina.
  • Surveillance video shows her last known movements in Grenada.
  • The video captures her entering the water but not coming back.
  • Two people on Jet Skis saw a woman who might have been Waddell far from shore.
  • The woman declined help when offered by those on the Jet Skis.
  • The incident is under local media and authorities’ attention.
  • The video and witness reports are recent developments in the search.
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Actor Jared Leto accused of criminal sexual conduct by 4 women

Actor Jared Leto accused of criminal sexual conduct by 4 women

Summary

Four women have accused actor and musician Jared Leto of criminal sexual conduct when they were teenagers, including allegations of sexual assault and statutory rape. These claims date from 2002 to 2016, and Leto has denied all wrongdoing; no criminal charges have been filed.

Key Facts

  • Four women told the BBC they experienced sexual misconduct by Jared Leto while they were teenagers.
  • One woman said Leto sexually assaulted her at 17 in a motel; another said she had sex with him at 17 in California, which could be statutory rape.
  • A third woman said Leto threatened her with sexual assault at age 19, and a fourth said he groomed her as a teenager.
  • Ten women in total spoke to the BBC for a documentary called "Jared Leto: Hollywood's Dark Secret," including nine who shared their stories publicly for the first time.
  • These encounters happened between 2002 and 2016 when Leto was in his 30s and 40s; he is now 54 years old.
  • Two men who worked with Leto’s band said staff felt uneasy about his contact with teenage girls.
  • The BBC verified some claims with family, friends, photos, and messages.
  • Jared Leto has faced previous sexual misconduct allegations but has never faced criminal charges.
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Forensic teams search a suspected mass grave from the Kosovo war

Forensic teams search a suspected mass grave from the Kosovo war

Summary

Forensic teams in Kosovo have started digging at a site where human remains were found, believed to be from people who disappeared during the 1998-1999 Kosovo war. Kosovo police have arrested two Kosovo Serbs in connection with suspected war crimes linked to this site.

Key Facts

  • The excavation is happening near the village of Kalluder in northern Kosovo.
  • The remains are thought to be from individuals missing since the Kosovo conflict between 1998 and 1999.
  • The Kosovo Liberation Army fought for independence, and Serbia responded with a severe crackdown during the war.
  • NATO bombed Serbia for 78 days in 1999, which led to the withdrawal of Serbian troops from Kosovo.
  • Two Kosovo Serbs were arrested on suspicions of war crimes related to the site.
  • About 1,600 people went missing during the war and are still unaccounted for.
  • Kosovo authorities suspect the remains may belong to a group of 23 people who were abducted and disappeared in 1999.
  • Kosovo’s Interior Minister said Serbia is not cooperating and is obstructing efforts to find missing persons and hold war crime suspects accountable.
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After Venezuela’s quakes, experts say environmental and health risks have just begun

After Venezuela’s quakes, experts say environmental and health risks have just begun

Summary

More than a month after strong earthquakes hit Venezuela, the hardest-hit areas are still dealing with dust, rubble, and unsafe buildings. Experts warn that the cleanup and health risks caused by contaminated debris could cause more problems if not handled carefully.

Key Facts

  • Two earthquakes on June 24 had magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 and killed over 5,000 people.
  • About 17,000 were injured, and nearly 18,000 people lost their homes.
  • The World Bank estimates the direct damage at $19.6 billion.
  • Dust from collapsed buildings is causing health problems like coughs, allergies, and fever.
  • Debris includes hazardous materials like fuel, chemicals, asbestos, and paints.
  • Authorities are separating safe rubble for recycling and hazardous waste for special disposal.
  • Some contaminated debris was reportedly dumped into the sea early on but that stopped soon after.
  • Venezuela’s health system is already weak, making the recovery harder for survivors.
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