A Nigerian scientist, Iroro Tanshi, won the global Goldman Environmental Prize for her work protecting endangered bats in Nigeria’s Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary. She led a community campaign to stop wildfires that harm the bats and helped change local negative views about them.
Key Facts
Iroro Tanshi discovered endangered short-tailed roundleaf bats in the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary after nearly 50 years.
She noticed wildfires, often started by farmers clearing land, threatened the bats’ habitat.
Tanshi created community fire brigades that have stopped large wildfires between 2022 and 2025.
Bats in Nigeria are often linked to witchcraft and feared by many people.
Her campaign educates locals, especially children, about the ecological benefits of bats, such as pollination and seed dispersal.
Shea butter production depends on bats because they spread the seeds of shea trees.
Tanshi is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Washington in the US.
She is one of six female winners of the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize, marking the first time all winners are women.
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Islamabad has increased security measures ahead of planned talks between the United States and Iran. Authorities are closely controlling access to the meeting site while there is uncertainty about whether Iran will participate.
Key Facts
Security in Islamabad is very tight before the US-Iran talks.
Police have increased in number and are managing entry to the venue.
The talks are between the United States and Iran.
There is doubt about Iran’s participation in the discussions.
The preparations are happening in the capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad.
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Valentina Gomez, a U.S.-based anti-Islam influencer, was blocked from entering the UK to speak at a far-right rally in London. The UK home secretary withdrew her travel permission, saying her presence would not be good for the public, similar to a recent decision involving rapper Ye.
Key Facts
Valentina Gomez was originally allowed to enter the UK with an electronic travel authorisation (ETA).
The home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, canceled Gomez’s ETA before the far-right rally on May 16.
Gomez was scheduled to speak at the Unite the Kingdom rally, organized by Tommy Robinson.
Her past speeches included anti-Muslim messages, including calling Muslims “rapists” and urging police to resist orders.
Over 100,000 people attended the rally, one of the biggest far-right events in UK history.
Elon Musk spoke remotely at the event and was criticized by UK officials for inflammatory language.
The UK government said freedom of speech does not extend to promoting hate or extremism.
The Muslim Council of Britain and others raised concerns about inconsistent rules on who can enter the UK.
Gomez is a Christian born in Colombia and has made anti-Islam statements publicly, including burning a Qur’an and wanting to remove Islam from Texas.
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A columnist from The Free Press, Eli Lake, said that President Donald Trump should demand freedom for the Iranian people during talks to end the conflict in the Middle East. He shared this opinion while speaking on CBS News Mornings.
Key Facts
Eli Lake is a columnist for The Free Press.
He appeared on CBS News Mornings to discuss his views.
Lake believes President Trump should focus on Iranian freedom in negotiations.
The talks aim to help end the conflict in the Middle East.
The article is based on a television segment with brief commentary.
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A dachshund named Molly learned to quietly walk upstairs by tiptoeing after her owner’s parents said dogs couldn’t sleep in the bedroom. A video showing Molly’s quiet staircase steps became popular on TikTok, highlighting dogs’ ability to adapt and learn behaviors.
Key Facts
Molly is a dachshund that was not allowed to sleep upstairs in the owner’s room.
The owner taught Molly to "tip toe" quietly upstairs after the parents went to bed.
The TikTok video of Molly quietly walking upstairs has over 8.6 million views and 1.5 million likes.
Dogs can learn complex behaviors through positive reinforcement, repetition, and clear cues.
Training dogs to be quiet often involves rewarding silent moments between barks.
Dogs learn best with short, consistent, and fun training sessions.
Many social media users shared stories about bending rules or making exceptions for pets.
The article could not independently verify the exact details of Molly’s case.
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A journalist in Lebanon reports that the situation is very serious for people who lost their homes during recent fighting. Over a million people were forced to leave their homes, and many houses were destroyed. People in Lebanon are also watching the peace talks between Iran and the US closely because Lebanon is involved in their bigger political struggle.
Key Facts
A fragile ceasefire was announced in Lebanon less than a week ago.
Thousands of homes have been destroyed during the conflict.
More than one million people have been displaced in Lebanon.
Iva Kovic-Chahine is the head of L'Orient Today and spoke about the situation.
Lebanon is affected by the influence of Hezbollah, a group linked to Iran.
The peace process between Iran and the US is being closely followed in Lebanon.
Lebanon is described as a part of a larger political conflict involving Iran.
People are beginning to return home but face many difficulties due to damage.
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Nobel Prize-winning physicist David Gross warned that the risk of nuclear war could limit human survival on Earth to about 35 years. He based this estimate on a yearly chance of nuclear conflict around 2 percent, higher than previous estimates, due to rising global tensions and the lack of new arms control treaties.
Key Facts
David Gross won the Nobel Prize in physics in 2004 for work on quarks, fundamental particles.
He recently received a $3 million Special Breakthrough Prize for his lifetime contributions to physics.
Gross estimated about a 2 percent chance each year of nuclear war occurring, which could mean an average of 35 years before such a conflict happens.
This risk level is higher than the 1 percent chance per year estimated right after the Cold War.
The increased risk comes from ongoing wars, nuclear tensions in places like Europe, Iran, India, and Pakistan, and the failure to create new nuclear arms-control agreements in the past decade.
There are currently nine nations with nuclear weapons, complicating global security compared to the Cold War era with two main nuclear powers.
The involvement of automation and artificial intelligence in controlling weapons adds new risks.
Gross emphasized that nuclear war is not inevitable and that diplomacy and communication between countries can reduce the risk.
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President Donald Trump announced that U.S. officials will travel to Pakistan to hold peace talks. However, Iran's state media has stated that Iran will not participate in these discussions.
Key Facts
U.S. representatives are scheduled to go to Pakistan for peace talks.
President Trump made this announcement publicly.
Iran's state media reported that Iran will not join the peace talks.
The talks aim to address issues involving countries in the region.
The exact topics to be discussed during the talks were not detailed.
Pakistan will serve as the location for these meetings.
The situation involves diplomatic efforts in South Asia and the Middle East.
No specific date for the talks was provided in the report.
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A hot air balloon carrying 13 people had to land quickly in a backyard in California because the wind stopped and the balloon ran out of fuel. The pilot made the emergency landing safely.
Key Facts
The hot air balloon had 13 people on board.
It was flying in California when the wind died down.
The balloon ran out of fuel, which made it unable to stay in the air.
The pilot decided to land quickly in a homeowner’s backyard for safety.
No injuries were reported during the emergency landing.
The situation was covered by CBS News.
Emergency landings happen when pilots must land quickly to avoid danger.
The pilot successfully handled the situation to keep passengers safe.
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A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck off the northeast coast of Japan near Iwate prefecture, causing a tsunami warning and evacuation orders for coastal areas. The Japanese meteorological agency warned of a higher chance of an even bigger earthquake and larger tsunami waves in the coming week.
Key Facts
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 km and had a magnitude of 7.7.
The quake triggered evacuation orders for thousands living near the coast to move to higher ground.
The biggest tsunami waves initially measured 80 cm, but bigger waves up to 3 meters were warned.
The tsunami warning was the second-highest level, telling people to evacuate immediately.
No major damage or injuries were reported right after the quake.
Tremors were felt as far as Tokyo, about 530 km (330 miles) away.
Japan’s meteorological agency said the chance of an 8.0 or stronger quake was higher than normal.
Japan experiences about 1,500 earthquakes a year due to its location on the Ring of Fire.
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The U.S. military took control of an Iranian cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran has warned that it will take action against this move. This event comes as a ceasefire agreement between the parties is about to end.
Key Facts
The U.S. military seized an Iranian cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz.
The event was recorded and a video from the U.S. military shows Marines taking control of the ship.
Iran has issued a threat to retaliate against the U.S. military's action.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil shipping and trade.
The ceasefire between the involved parties is set to expire soon, increasing tensions.
The incident is part of ongoing conflicts and strained relations between the U.S. and Iran.
CBS News reported on the event and provided video coverage.
Charlie D'Agata is the CBS journalist providing updates on the situation.
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A stray-looking tabby cat surprised a couple by joining them on their moving day, calmly sitting in their car among packed boxes. The video of this moment went viral on TikTok, sparking a discussion about how many cats that appear stray might actually have homes.
Key Facts
A couple found a tabby cat on their porch as they were moving and let it join them in the car.
The moving day video of the cat gained nearly 890,000 views and over 200,000 likes on TikTok.
Experts say many cats seen alone may not be homeless but are just wandering or lost temporarily.
Purina, a pet company, advises checking collars, asking neighbors, and scanning for microchips to find a cat’s owner.
If a cat seems lost, owners are likely searching through local lost-pet boards and social media.
Providing food, water, and shelter is important when caring for a found cat before reuniting it with its owners.
The viral video received thousands of comments, with many viewers joking the cat planned to join the move.
Newsweek contacted the TikTok user but could not confirm the full story details.
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US forces captured an Iranian-flagged ship near the Strait of Hormuz and released video of the event. President Trump said the ship tried to break through a US naval blockade, while Iran called the action maritime piracy and threatened to respond.
Key Facts
US forces took control of an Iranian-flagged ship near the Strait of Hormuz.
The US released video footage showing the capture.
President Donald Trump said the ship was trying to break a US naval blockade.
Iran called the US action "maritime piracy."
Iran warned it would retaliate against the US.
The incident has raised doubts about new talks between the US and Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil shipments.
The capture reflects ongoing tensions between the US and Iran over naval and regional security.
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A professional cat sitter was asked by her client to adopt their ragdoll kitten because the family traveled too much to care for him properly. The sitter agreed to foster the kitten, who was later adopted by her boyfriend, and the kitten has since settled happily into his new home.
Key Facts
The cat sitter started caring for the ragdoll kitten two weeks after he was brought home in September.
The kitten's family traveled frequently, so the sitter cared for him at least one week each month.
In February, the client offered the sitter the chance to adopt the kitten due to their busy schedule.
The sitter couldn’t adopt permanently but fostered the kitten after learning the family planned to sell him.
While the sitter was away, her boyfriend formed a bond with the kitten and then decided to adopt him.
The kitten’s name changed from Kenji to Gatsby and finally to Chicken Babyson.
The story was shared on Reddit and received significant positive attention online.
The kitten enjoys playing, balcony time, and resting beside his new owner, showing typical ragdoll behaviors.
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Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said that Canada’s close economic relationship with the United States, once a strength, has become a weakness that needs fixing. He stressed the importance of diversifying Canada’s economy by seeking new investments and trade deals beyond the US due to changed US trade policies and rising tariffs under President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
Canada used to see its strong economic ties with the US as a benefit but now views it as a challenge.
President Trump’s trade policies have increased tariffs, impacting Canadian industries like auto and steel.
Businesses in Canada are hesitant to invest because of uncertainty caused by US actions.
Carney plans to keep Canadians updated on efforts to reduce dependence on the US economy.
Canada aims to grow clean energy, reduce internal trade barriers, increase defense spending, lower taxes, and improve housing affordability.
The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) between Canada, the US, and Mexico is set for review in July.
Carney criticized relying on the hope that US trade policies will return to previous norms.
Canada has a history of supporting the US in conflicts but must now take stronger control of its own security and economy.
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GLP-1 medications like Ozempic are commonly used to help people lose weight and manage some health conditions. Most experts say many people need to keep taking these medicines to maintain their weight loss and health benefits.
Key Facts
GLP-1 drugs include semaglutide (Wegovy), liraglutide (Saxenda), and tirzepatide (Zepbound).
Stopping GLP-1 treatment often leads to regaining a large part of the lost weight within a year.
These medications not only help with weight loss but also treat conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, sleep apnea, and some liver diseases.
Continuing the medication can protect against heart attacks and strokes in people with weight-related health risks.
There is no one-size-fits-all maintenance dose for GLP-1 drugs; doses may be lowered or spaced out depending on individual needs.
Medical groups like the American Diabetes Association recommend continuing GLP-1 therapy for ongoing health benefits.
Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to find the best maintenance plan.
The choice to keep taking GLP-1 medications depends on personal health goals and medical advice.
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Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Iran does not plan to have more talks with the United States. This statement came after the United States seized an Iranian cargo ship.
Key Facts
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson is Esmail Baghaei.
Baghaei told reporters there are no plans for a second round of talks with the US.
The announcement followed the US seizing an Iranian cargo ship.
The seized ship is linked to Iran.
The news highlights ongoing tensions between Iran and the US.
No further details were given on future talks or negotiations.
This situation is part of broader political issues between the two countries.
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The U.S. plans to hold new peace talks with Iran in Pakistan, led by Vice President JD Vance. However, Iran says it is not ready for new talks because it disagrees with the U.S. demands. A fragile ceasefire between the two countries is about to end this week.
Key Facts
The Trump administration announced new peace talks with Iran.
The talks will happen in Pakistan.
Vice President JD Vance will lead the U.S. delegation.
Iran has stated it is not ready to join new talks.
Iran criticizes the U.S. for making too many demands.
A fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is set to expire soon.
The future of peace talks is uncertain because of these disagreements.
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Iraq’s largest Shia political group, the Coordination Framework, is struggling to pick a new prime minister five months after elections. The choice is between the current Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and a candidate supported by former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, while both the US and Iran watch closely because of their influence in Iraq.
Key Facts
Iraq’s Coordination Framework holds about 185 of 329 parliamentary seats and must choose a prime minister by April 26.
Current Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani seeks a second term but faces opposition from a bloc led by Nouri al-Maliki.
The US opposes Maliki’s candidacy due to his strong ties to Iran.
Iran maintains significant influence over Iraqi politics through Shia groups and recently sent Ismail Qaani, head of its Quds Force, to Baghdad.
Qaani’s visit aimed to help resolve the leadership deadlock, reportedly supporting al-Sudani over Maliki’s ally Bassem al-Badri.
The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a coalition of mainly Shia armed groups allied with Iran, also play a role in the political process.
Iraq’s political system assigns top jobs by ethno-sectarian lines: the president is a Kurd, the speaker is a Sunni Arab, and the prime minister is a Shia Arab.
On April 11, Nizar Amedi, a Kurdish politician, was appointed president, starting the 15-day deadline for the Coordination Framework to name the prime minister candidate.
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Keir Starmer will admit he accidentally gave wrong information to members of parliament about Peter Mandelson’s security checks. Starmer says he did not know the correct details before speaking and will explain this in parliament.
Key Facts
Keir Starmer is expected to acknowledge he misled parliament by mistake.
The incorrect information was about Peter Mandelson’s security clearance before becoming US ambassador.
Starmer had previously said full security checks were done.
The Guardian reported Mandelson did not pass full security vetting.
Opposition leaders said Starmer should correct the record.
Starmer’s spokesperson said the prime minister was also misled and did not have the correct details.
Starmer will speak publicly about this issue in parliament on Monday.
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