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World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Britain’s military dependence on US ‘no longer tenable’, says former Nato chief

Britain’s military dependence on US ‘no longer tenable’, says former Nato chief

Summary

A former NATO chief, Lord Robertson, said that Britain can no longer rely heavily on the US for military support and must become more independent. He pointed out that relations between the UK and US have worsened, especially during President Donald Trump’s time in office, and urged Britain to increase its own defence spending and cooperation with European allies.

Key Facts

  • Lord Robertson said Britain's high military dependence on the US is no longer practical.
  • He cited actions by President Trump, like attacking Iran without broad support and imposing tariffs on allies, as signs of changing US foreign policy.
  • The UK and US are growing apart in values and diplomatic tone, reaching a historic low during Trump’s presidency.
  • Robertson warned that the US might not always be willing to help the UK in conflict situations.
  • He called for the UK to become more independent militarily and work closely with European countries against threats like Russia.
  • The UK aims to raise defence spending to 3.5% of its GDP by 2035 to meet NATO targets.
  • An £18 billion funding gap remains in the UK’s 10-year defence investment plan.
  • A report by the House of Lords said the UK-US special relationship is under more strain than at any time since World War II.
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The US needs its NATO allies now more than ever

The US needs its NATO allies now more than ever

Summary

The US military action in Iran has affected both the United States and its European NATO partners. European countries have increased their support and help, showing a strong partnership within NATO.

Key Facts

  • The US carried out a military operation in Iran.
  • This operation impacted Americans and European NATO allies.
  • European NATO countries have taken on more duties in response.
  • These allies have given important support to the US during the conflict.
  • The cooperation highlights the strength of the NATO alliance.
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Sonia Sotomayor Pens Unanimous Supreme Court Opinion in Michigan's Favor

Sonia Sotomayor Pens Unanimous Supreme Court Opinion in Michigan's Favor

Summary

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a Michigan lawsuit to shut down part of the Line 5 oil pipeline must stay in state court. The pipeline, owned by Canadian company Enbridge, has faced legal and safety challenges related to its operation under the Great Lakes.

Key Facts

  • Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote the unanimous Supreme Court decision supporting Michigan’s position.
  • Enbridge tried to move the case to federal court but missed the deadline to do so.
  • The lawsuit aims to stop a 4.5-mile section of Line 5 running beneath the Straits of Mackinac, which connects Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
  • Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed the lawsuit in 2019, citing environmental risks from the pipeline.
  • Enbridge has known about damage to the pipeline’s coating since 2014 and the line was struck by a ship’s anchor in 2018.
  • Michigan revoked Enbridge’s easement for the pipeline in 2020; Enbridge is challenging this decision in federal court.
  • Enbridge proposed building a protective tunnel around the underwater section, with state permits approved but federal approvals pending.
  • Legal issues surrounding Line 5 also continue in Wisconsin, where a federal judge ordered a shutdown for a segment crossing tribal land.
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Trump calls Iran’s leadership ‘fractured’. Is it, and who’s in charge?

Trump calls Iran’s leadership ‘fractured’. Is it, and who’s in charge?

Summary

President Donald Trump described Iran’s leadership as divided while announcing an extension of a ceasefire to allow more negotiation time. Key figures in Iran’s government include the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who lead Iran’s response and talks with the US.

Key Facts

  • President Trump called Iran’s leadership "seriously fractured" amid ongoing ceasefire talks.
  • The US naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian ports remains in place.
  • Mojtaba Khamenei became Iran’s new Supreme Leader in March after his father was killed in US-Israeli airstrikes.
  • Mojtaba Khamenei has strong ties to Iran’s powerful military group, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
  • Reports say Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in an airstrike but continues to lead via audio meetings.
  • Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is Iran’s parliamentary speaker and head of the Iranian delegation negotiating with the US.
  • Ghalibaf was suggested as a possible leader preferred by the Trump administration if Iran’s government changed.
  • Iran’s leadership shows signs of continuing hardline policies and readiness for further conflict if talks fail.
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Palestine Action activist who hit officer with sledge hammer ‘panicked’, court told

Palestine Action activist who hit officer with sledge hammer ‘panicked’, court told

Summary

A Palestine Action activist named Samuel Corner is on trial for hitting a police officer with a sledgehammer during a protest at an arms factory linked to Israel. Corner says he acted out of panic to protect a fellow protester and did not intend to cause serious harm.

Key Facts

  • Samuel Corner, 23, is charged with causing serious injury to police officer Sgt Kate Evans with a sledgehammer.
  • The incident happened during a protest at Elbit Systems factory near Bristol on 6 August 2024.
  • Corner and five others face charges of criminal damage for destroying drones, computers, and other equipment.
  • Corner says he was sprayed with Pava spray (similar to pepper spray) and panicked after hearing screams.
  • He claims he struck the officer to protect a co-defendant who he believed was being badly hurt.
  • Corner said he wanted to stop the factory from making and exporting weapons.
  • The officer’s spine was fractured in the attack.
  • The defendants deny all the charges and the trial is ongoing.
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From pop royalty to raw Americana: 'Michael', 'The New West' and 'Die, My Love'

From pop royalty to raw Americana: 'Michael', 'The New West' and 'Die, My Love'

Summary

This article highlights three new films featured on the arts24 film show. It covers the biopic "Michael" about Michael Jackson, the Sundance-winning docu-fiction "The New West" about rural American life, and the Cannes contender "Die, My Love" exploring themes of love and mental health.

Key Facts

  • "Michael" is a biographical film directed by Antoine Fuqua about Michael Jackson.
  • Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, plays the main role.
  • Colman Domingo acts as Joseph Jackson, Michael’s father.
  • "The New West" is a docu-fiction that stars real rancher Tabatha Zimiga.
  • The film captures the challenges faced by rural Americans.
  • "Die, My Love" is directed by Lynne Ramsay and competed at the Cannes Film Festival.
  • The film stars Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson, focusing on love, isolation, and mental health.
  • All three films tell different human stories with strong performances and notable directors.
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Dave Mason, co-founder of Traffic known for ‘We Just Disagree’ and ‘Feelin’ Alright,’ dies at 79

Dave Mason, co-founder of Traffic known for ‘We Just Disagree’ and ‘Feelin’ Alright,’ dies at 79

Summary

Dave Mason, co-founder of the British band Traffic and writer of classic rock songs like "Feelin’ Alright," died at age 79 in Nevada. He was known for his role in the band and his solo music career, and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Key Facts

  • Dave Mason was born on May 10, 1946, in Worcester, England.
  • He co-founded the psychedelic band Traffic in 1967.
  • Mason wrote hit songs including "Feelin’ Alright" and "Hole in My Shoe."
  • He had a solo career with multiple gold and platinum albums.
  • Mason contributed to albums by famous artists like The Rolling Stones, George Harrison, and Jimi Hendrix.
  • He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 for his work with Traffic.
  • Mason died at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada, with no cause of death announced yet.
  • He had retired from touring in 2023 due to health issues related to an infection.
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Meet Herbie, the world's oldest living rabbit

Meet Herbie, the world's oldest living rabbit

Summary

Herbie, a lionhead rabbit living in Surrey, England, has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest living rabbit at 15 years and 246 days old. This age is nearly twice as long as the usual life expectancy for lionhead rabbits, which is 7 to 10 years.

Key Facts

  • Herbie is a lionhead rabbit adopted by Melissa and Richard Dunham when he was eight weeks old.
  • He reached 15 years and 246 days, making him the oldest living rabbit in the world according to Guinness World Records.
  • Lionhead rabbits typically live between 7 and 10 years.
  • Herbie lived with other rabbits named Flopsy, Tinks, and Betty during his life.
  • Herbie was originally living in a pet shop before adoption.
  • The oldest rabbit ever recorded lived to 18 years and 10 months in Australia.
  • Herbie shows a strong bond with his owner Richard and is described as having a big personality.
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King awarded Blue Peter Green badge for environmental work

King awarded Blue Peter Green badge for environmental work

Summary

King Charles III received a Blue Peter Green badge for his work in protecting the environment and promoting sustainability through The King's Foundation. He also placed a Blue Peter badge in a time capsule at Dumfries House, which will be opened after 100 years.

Key Facts

  • King Charles III was awarded a Blue Peter Green badge at Dumfries House in East Ayrshire.
  • The badge recognizes his efforts in promoting nature and sustainability.
  • He placed another Blue Peter badge into a time capsule for The King's Foundation's 35th anniversary.
  • The time capsule will stay buried for 100 years before being opened by future generations.
  • The King met schoolchildren involved in gardening and cooking programs promoting sustainability.
  • Secondary students from Auchenharvie Academy were recognized for their work on sustainability.
  • King Charles supports reducing food waste through projects like the Coronation Food Project started in 2023.
  • Earlier, King Charles and Queen Camilla received Gold Blue Peter badges in Liverpool for their work supporting youth and literacy.
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Fires ignited by Ukrainian drones rage at Russian oil refinery

Fires ignited by Ukrainian drones rage at Russian oil refinery

Summary

A Ukrainian drone attack caused fires at the Tuapse oil refinery in Russia. Hundreds of firefighters are working to control the blaze.

Key Facts

  • The Tuapse oil refinery in Russia was hit by drones from Ukraine.
  • The attack caused multiple fires at the refinery.
  • Hundreds of firefighters are actively trying to put out the fires.
  • The event happened just days before this report.
  • The situation is ongoing as firefighters continue their efforts.
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EU agrees to unblock €90bn loan for Ukraine after Hungary lifts veto

EU agrees to unblock €90bn loan for Ukraine after Hungary lifts veto

Summary

The European Union (EU) has agreed to release a €90 billion loan for Ukraine after Hungary stopped blocking it. This happened because Ukraine restarted sending Russian oil through a key pipeline to Hungary and Slovakia, ending a dispute that had delayed the loan and new sanctions against Russia.

Key Facts

  • The EU planned a €90 billion loan to support Ukraine’s finances in 2026 and 2027, split into two €45 billion interest-free loans.
  • Hungary vetoed the loan in March due to a disagreement over damage to the Druzhba oil pipeline, which supplies Hungary and Slovakia with Russian oil.
  • Ukraine said the pipeline was damaged by Russian drone attacks and was being repaired promptly.
  • Hungary’s oil company confirmed oil flow through the pipeline resumed from Belarus to Hungary and Slovakia.
  • The loan includes €28 billion annually for military spending and €17 billion for budget needs.
  • Ukraine is expected to repay the loan only after Russia pays reparations once the war ends.
  • The EU’s new sanctions package against Russia involves more bans on ships, maritime and energy restrictions, and trade limits.
  • The EU delay in loan approval also postponed new sanctions planned for the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
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Nepal’s home minister resigns, second cabinet exit in one month

Nepal’s home minister resigns, second cabinet exit in one month

Summary

Nepal’s Home Minister Sudan Gurung resigned amid questions about his investments and other issues. He is the second minister to leave since the new government was formed last month, and the prime minister will temporarily take over the ministry.

Key Facts

  • Sudan Gurung resigned as Nepal’s Home Minister on Wednesday.
  • He mentioned questions about his investments but gave no further details.
  • Gurung was appointed on March 27 and is 38 years old.
  • Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah will manage the Home Ministry until a new minister is named.
  • Gurung had ordered the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his home minister over a protest crackdown investigation.
  • Prime Minister Shah, a former rapper, leads a party that promises to fight corruption and improve governance.
  • Earlier this month, the government created a commission to investigate politicians’ assets as part of reforms.
  • Nepal ranks 109th out of 180 countries on a corruption perception index.
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Prize-winning book 'Houris' brings prison term for French-Algerian author Kamel Daoud

Prize-winning book 'Houris' brings prison term for French-Algerian author Kamel Daoud

Summary

Kamel Daoud, a French-Algerian author, was sentenced in Algeria to three years in prison and fined for his book "Houris," which explores Algeria’s civil war in the 1990s. The sentence was based on a law that restricts public discussion of the war, raising concerns about freedom of expression in Algeria.

Key Facts

  • Kamel Daoud received a three-year prison sentence and a fine of about $38,000 in Algeria.
  • The book "Houris" covers the violent civil war in Algeria during the 1990s, known as the "black decade."
  • Daoud won France’s prestigious Goncourt Prize for this novel in 2024.
  • The conviction was under the Charter for Peace and National Reconciliation, which limits public discussion of the civil war.
  • The law grants pardons to both Islamist fighters and government forces but punishes public mentions of the conflict.
  • Daoud is also facing two international arrest warrants from Algeria and might lose his Algerian nationality.
  • He previously served a year in prison and was released after a humanitarian appeal by Germany’s president.
  • Another French-Algerian writer, Boualem Sansal, has experienced similar legal troubles in Algeria.
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Food security: Why Guterres’s UN plan to get fertiliser flowing in Hormuz is stalling

Food security: Why Guterres’s UN plan to get fertiliser flowing in Hormuz is stalling

Summary

The United Nations is trying to create a safe route to send fertiliser and other important goods through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been blocked due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The plan needs approval from key countries, including Iran, the United States, and Gulf states, but face delays as political tensions continue.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively blocked since the start of the Iran war in early 2026.
  • The UN proposed a humanitarian corridor to safely allow fertiliser shipments to pass through the strait.
  • The plan involves a UN task force monitoring and approving ships carrying fertiliser and essential goods.
  • This corridor is important because countries like Sudan and Somalia need fertiliser for farming and could face hunger if supplies stop.
  • The UN plan includes using an online system for ship registration and UN monitors at ports in Gulf countries and Iran.
  • Iran’s UN envoy said Iran supports UN ships passing through the strait but demands the US end its naval blockade first.
  • The UN plan has no set start date and depends on agreement from the main parties in the war.
  • The situation remains unstable due to shifting control and military actions around the strait.
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Governments failed to deliver $160m of river improvements including for now-parched NSW wetlands, report finds

Governments failed to deliver $160m of river improvements including for now-parched NSW wetlands, report finds

Summary

Two Australian state governments, New South Wales and Queensland, have failed to deliver over $160 million worth of promised projects to improve river health in the northern Murray-Darling basin. An independent review found most infrastructure work did not progress as planned, harming wetlands, turtles, fish, and other wildlife.

Key Facts

  • The northern basin toolkit program was created to improve river health without using extra water, with a federal budget of $166 million.
  • New South Wales did not secure private land access needed to improve water flows in the Gwydir region.
  • Only 64 km of fish passageways were built out of the original 2,135 km target, later reduced to 589 km.
  • Queensland’s promised updates to weirs never moved past initial study stages.
  • The federal inspector general’s report labeled NSW and Queensland’s efforts as “severe underdelivery.”
  • The program was meant to compensate for a federal water cut from 390 billion to 320 billion liters per year for the environment.
  • Environmental impacts include dried wetlands, and deaths of turtles, waterbirds, frogs, and sheep.
  • NSW Water Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged the challenges and said the government remains committed to improving environmental outcomes.
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US Denies China Cheap Iranian Oil With Tanker Capture

US Denies China Cheap Iranian Oil With Tanker Capture

Summary

The U.S. Navy seized an oil tanker named Tifani carrying nearly 2 million barrels of Iranian oil bound for China. This is part of the U.S. efforts to block Iran’s maritime oil trade and limit its main source of revenue.

Key Facts

  • The Tifani tanker was detained by U.S. forces in the Indian Ocean while carrying Iranian crude oil.
  • The ship was flying Botswana’s flag but was listed as "stateless" by U.S. and international authorities.
  • This is the second Iran-linked ship seized by the U.S. since stricter controls on Iranian trade began.
  • The tanker was loaded at Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal.
  • Analysts estimate the tanker was carrying about 1.9 to 2 million barrels of crude oil.
  • The ship reportedly planned to transfer oil near Malaysia before shipping it to China.
  • China buys over 10% of its crude oil from Iran, often at lower prices.
  • The U.S. aims to stop Iran from earning revenue through illicit maritime oil trade.
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The war on Iran: Breaking down the words you’re hearing

The war on Iran: Breaking down the words you’re hearing

Summary

This article explains the meanings and origins of words used in the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. It looks at terms like “Epic Fury,” “Kafir,” and “Hormuz” to help readers understand their background and significance.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on the language used in the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran.
  • It explains the origins of various terms related to the war.
  • Words such as “Epic Fury,” “Kafir,” and “Hormuz” are discussed in detail.
  • The purpose is to clarify what these terms mean for a better understanding of the conflict.
  • The article is produced by reporters Alma Milisic and Basel Ghazoghli from Al Jazeera.
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No cartels involved - but Mexico's pyramid attack prompts new concerns

No cartels involved - but Mexico's pyramid attack prompts new concerns

Summary

A gunman opened fire at the Pyramid of the Moon in Mexico's Teotihuacán archaeological site, killing one tourist and injuring others before shooting himself. Authorities say the attacker acted alone and was not connected to drug cartels, and they believe the attack was influenced by previous violent incidents in the United States.

Key Facts

  • The shooting happened at the Pyramid of the Moon, a major tourist site in Mexico.
  • One Canadian tourist was killed; several tourists from Russia, Colombia, and Brazil were injured.
  • The attacker was a 27-year-old Mexican man named Julio César Jasso Ramírez.
  • He acted alone and had no links to Mexico’s drug cartels.
  • Officials found weapons and writings related to violence in the United States, including references to the 1999 Columbine school shooting.
  • Authorities see the attack as a “copycat” crime by someone with a psychopathic profile.
  • The incident occurred weeks before Mexico co-hosts the men's football World Cup.
  • This type of lone attacker violence is rare in Mexico, which usually sees violence related to drug cartels.
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How Ireland’s war-driven fuel blockades revealed the true cost of Europe’s oil addiction

How Ireland’s war-driven fuel blockades revealed the true cost of Europe’s oil addiction

Summary

Fuel price protests in Ireland caused major blockades, leading the government to cut fuel taxes and delay a carbon tax increase. The crisis revealed Europe's heavy dependence on oil and the challenges governments face balancing energy costs, climate goals, and public anger. Meanwhile, electric vehicle sales are rising in Europe, partly as a response to ongoing energy disruptions.

Key Facts

  • Sales of electric vehicles in continental Europe rose by 51% in March.
  • The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is called the “biggest energy crisis in history” by the International Energy Agency.
  • Irish truckers and farmers protested fuel taxes by blockading ports, fuel depots, and the country’s only refinery.
  • After six days of protests, Ireland cut excise duties on petrol and diesel and delayed a carbon tax increase by six months.
  • The Irish government provided a €505 million rescue package to ease fuel costs during the crisis.
  • The carbon tax, designed to reduce pollution, has become a major point of public frustration.
  • The European Commission plans tax cuts favoring electricity to encourage cleaner energy use in transport.
  • Despite rising electric vehicle sales, 96% of EU transport still depends on petrol or diesel.
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Russia says will halt oil flow to Germany via Druzhba pipeline

Russia says will halt oil flow to Germany via Druzhba pipeline

Summary

Russia announced it will stop sending oil from Kazakhstan to Germany through the Druzhba pipeline starting in May, citing technical reasons. This change will affect the PCK refinery near Berlin, which provides most of the city's fuel, but German officials say it will not threaten the overall fuel supply.

Key Facts

  • Russia will halt the shipment of Kazakh oil to Germany via the Druzhba pipeline from May 1.
  • The Druzhba pipeline runs through Russia, Belarus, Poland, and also has a branch through Ukraine to Hungary.
  • Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said the change is due to technical capacities.
  • Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister and Germany’s economic ministry confirmed no oil is scheduled next month through this pipeline.
  • The PCK refinery near Berlin relies heavily on this oil and supplies 90% of Berlin’s petrol, heating fuel, and kerosene.
  • German regulators learned about the stoppage from Rosneft Deutschland, the local branch of Russia’s state oil company.
  • Germany’s Ministry of Economic Affairs stated the loss of this oil does not endanger the country’s overall mineral oil supply.
  • The situation comes at a time of global energy disruption linked to conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
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