Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez held rallies in Barcelona to promote democracy and unite left-wing leaders. At the same time, far-right leaders gathered in Milan, showing ongoing influence despite Sánchez’s claim that their power is decreasing.
Key Facts
Pedro Sánchez hosted left-wing leaders in Barcelona on April 18, 2026.
The rallies focused on democracy and progressive unity.
Sánchez criticized President Donald Trump and the US-Israeli conflict in Iran.
He called for peace and said far-right political influence was declining.
Meanwhile, far-right leaders held a separate meeting in Milan.
The Milan gathering suggested the far-right remains active and influential in Europe.
The events highlight political tensions between progressive and far-right groups in Europe.
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Iran and the United States have made some progress in talks but remain far from a final agreement, according to Iranian officials. The two countries are in dispute over Iran’s nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz, with risks of renewed conflict as a ceasefire is set to end soon.
Key Facts
Iran’s parliament speaker said many important issues remain unresolved in talks with the US.
Iran’s president criticized President Trump for limiting Iran’s nuclear rights without justification.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, was briefly reopened by Iran but then restricted again due to a US naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Iran warned it would block other ships if its own vessels are blocked.
President Trump said the US might "start dropping bombs again" if no deal is reached by the ceasefire’s end on Wednesday.
Negotiations have stalled as Iran demands a clear agreement framework before setting another meeting date.
A first round of talks in Islamabad ended without a deal, and mediators hope for a second round.
Experts note Iran faces pressure from US military actions and sanctions alongside ongoing talks.
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The Vatican has stopped the process to recognize Walter Ciszek, an American priest imprisoned in the Soviet Union, as a saint. This decision came after a careful review found there was not enough support for his sainthood, according to church officials.
Key Facts
Walter Ciszek was an American priest born in Pennsylvania in 1904 and died in 1984.
He was imprisoned by Soviet authorities from 1941 to 1963, accused of being a spy.
Ciszek was released in a prisoner exchange negotiated by President John F. Kennedy.
The Vatican approved starting his sainthood cause in 2012 but recently stopped the process.
Monsignor Ronald Bocian said the documentation did not support advancing his cause for beatification or sainthood.
The Diocese of Allentown confirmed the Vatican’s decision and said the church reviews causes carefully and faithfully.
The Vatican did not give a specific reason for stopping the process.
The news comes amid tensions between the U.S. and the Vatican on political issues, but no motive was suggested for this decision.
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Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, faced questions about his leadership after appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the US, despite Mandelson not passing security checks. Starmer’s cabinet ministers, including Liz Kendall and David Lammy, said he would have stopped the appointment if he had known this and defended his record on important national issues.
Key Facts
Peter Mandelson was appointed UK ambassador to the US but failed the required security vetting.
Keir Starmer would have withdrawn Mandelson’s appointment if he had been informed about the security failure.
Liz Kendall, science and technology secretary, said Mandelson was responsible for not sharing this information with the Prime Minister.
Liz Kendall and David Lammy publicly supported Starmer’s overall leadership and decisions on key national and international matters.
The issue caused political controversy but Starmer’s ministers rallied around him to maintain confidence in his leadership.
Starmer is praised for handling major issues like UK-EU relations, defense, and social problems.
The failure to inform Starmer about the security vetting is seen as a serious mistake by government officials.
The controversy emerged right before President Donald Trump’s inauguration as US President (note: Trump is now President in current context).
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Many people want a friendly dog like a golden retriever but have allergies that make this hard. Experts say no dog is fully allergy-free, but some breeds shed less and may cause fewer problems for allergy sufferers.
Key Facts
Golden retrievers shed a lot, spreading dander that triggers allergies.
No dog breed is completely hypoallergenic because all produce dander and proteins that can cause allergies.
Dogs with hair that grows continuously, like poodles and bichon frises, usually shed less.
Mixed-breed dogs with similar hair types might also cause fewer allergy issues.
Bathing dogs often and cleaning their bedding can help reduce allergens.
Keeping dogs out of bedrooms and using air filters can also help manage allergy symptoms.
Some people may react differently depending on the dog's sex, as male dogs produce a unique allergen.
Spending time with a dog before adopting helps determine if allergies will be manageable.
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Iran has strengthened its control over the Strait of Hormuz, stopping ships from passing through while the U.S. maintains its blockade on Iranian ports. This move comes as the ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. is about to expire, and mediators are trying to arrange new talks to avoid renewed conflict.
Key Facts
Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz under full control of its armed forces and is limiting ship traffic.
The U.S. continues to block Iranian ports until a deal is reached.
Iran fired on two India-flagged ships trying to pass through the strait, forcing them to turn back.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway through which about 20% of the world’s oil passes.
The ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. expires soon, with uncertainty about its extension.
Pakistani mediators are working to schedule new negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.
Iran’s parliament speaker and chief negotiator Mohammed Bagher Qalibaf stated Iran will continue restricting passage unless U.S. blockades end.
The conflict escalation risks worsening the global energy crisis and international tensions.
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Police in Trinidad and Tobago found the bodies of at least 50 infants and six adults dumped in a graveyard near the town of Cumuto. The police said the bodies may have been unlawfully disposed of after being unclaimed, and they are investigating the case.
Key Facts
The bodies were found about 40 km (25 miles) from Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago.
There were at least 50 infant bodies and six adult bodies discovered in the graveyard.
Police suspect the bodies were discarded illegally after being unclaimed.
Five of the adult bodies had identification tags; two showed signs of autopsies.
Police commissioner Allister Guevarro called the discovery deeply troubling and promised accountability.
The country has had a state of emergency since March 2, which gives police extra powers to fight crime.
Trinidad and Tobago has one of the highest murder rates in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The US State Department has issued travel warnings for Trinidad and Tobago due to crime and terrorism risks.
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A large fire destroyed over 200 homes in the floating village of Kampung Bahagia, Sabah, Malaysia. The fire spread fast due to strong winds and the close arrangement of wooden houses, forcing more than 400 people to leave their homes.
Key Facts
The fire occurred in Kampung Bahagia, a floating village in Sabah, Malaysia.
More than 200 homes were destroyed by the fire.
Over 400 people were displaced and had to find shelter elsewhere.
The village’s houses are made of wood and are built close together.
Strong winds helped the fire spread quickly overnight.
The incident caused significant damage and loss to the community.
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Richard Gadd stars in and wrote the new BBC drama series Half Man, which tells the story of two friends, Niall and Ruben, over 30 years as they deal with family problems, personal trauma, and struggles with identity. The show highlights how their close friendship breaks down due to secrets and social pressures, set against the changing city of Glasgow.
Key Facts
Half Man is a six-part BBC drama written by and starring Richard Gadd.
The show follows the lives of two men, Niall and Ruben, from their teenage years into adulthood.
Niall struggles to accept his sexuality, while Ruben deals with past trauma.
The story moves between the 1980s and the present day, exploring family dysfunction and personal repression.
Richard Gadd had to transform his look and acting style for the tough character Ruben.
Jamie Bell, known for Billy Elliot and Rocketman, plays Niall.
The show reflects Glasgow’s cultural changes and growing acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
Half Man is available on BBC iPlayer from 24 April.
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The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has lost track of many military veterans who could be recalled during a national emergency. A government adviser said the MoD needs to update and improve contact with these veterans, as current records are incomplete, especially for those who left service over six years ago.
Key Facts
About 95,000 former soldiers and officers are in the UK’s strategic reserve, liable for recall during emergencies.
The MoD keeps contact with veterans only for six years after they leave full-time service; after that, records are not well maintained.
The strategic reserve includes veterans who have a lifelong obligation to be recalled if needed by law.
The government plans to increase the maximum age for military recall from 55 to 65.
The recall rules now cover "warlike operations," not just direct attacks on the UK.
The active reserve currently has around 32,000 trained volunteers who serve part-time or full-time.
Experts and defense advisers warn that the UK is underprepared for future threats and that the strategic reserve management needs urgent improvement.
The UK government is working on legislation to enhance reserve forces and improve communication with veterans.
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North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the East Sea, according to South Korea's military. These tests are part of a series of recent weapons launches by North Korea that violate United Nations sanctions.
Key Facts
North Korea fired multiple short-range ballistic missiles from the Sinpo area.
The missiles flew about 140 kilometers (87 miles).
South Korea and the United States are analyzing the missile details.
South Korea held an emergency meeting and pledged a strong response to any provocation.
The launches come amid worsening relations between North and South Korea.
North Korea continues to break UN bans on missile and nuclear weapons tests.
North Korea is expanding its naval power by building new destroyers.
Pyongyang is reportedly receiving military support and technology from Russia in connection with the Ukraine conflict.
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North Korea launched several ballistic missiles early Sunday morning toward the sea between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. South Korea, the U.S., and Japan confirmed the launches and said they are monitoring the situation closely.
Key Facts
The missile launches began around 6:10 a.m. near Sinpo, a port city on North Korea’s east coast.
The missiles were fired over the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan.
South Korean and U.S. intelligence agencies are analyzing the missiles’ details.
The launches occurred shortly after the head of the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog visited South Korea.
The International Atomic Energy Agency called on North Korea to engage in diplomacy and follow U.N. Security Council rules.
South Korea called the missile tests a clear violation of U.N. resolutions and urged North Korea to stop provocations.
Japan’s Defense Minister said Japan will work closely with the U.S. and South Korea and stay ready for any situation.
The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command stated the launches do not pose an immediate threat to U.S. or allied territory but said it remains committed to defense in the region.
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Iran and the United States are still working on resolving important issues related to nuclear talks and control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route. Tensions rose after Iran reimposed restrictions on the strait following U.S. actions, and incidents involving attacks on ships were reported in the area.
Key Facts
Iran’s top negotiator said progress has been made with the U.S., but major differences remain on nuclear matters and the Strait of Hormuz.
President Donald Trump said talks with Iran are “very good” but warned against any form of blackmail over the shipping route.
Iran restored strict control over the Strait of Hormuz after the U.S. continued its blockade of Iranian ports.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard ships reportedly fired at a tanker trying to pass through the strait, with an Indian oil tanker also attacked.
The U.S. held a White House meeting to discuss the rising crisis, noting the risk of war restarting soon if no breakthrough occurs.
Iran’s supreme national security council is reviewing new proposals from the U.S. ahead of any further talks.
Hezbollah denied involvement in an attack on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon that killed a French soldier.
Israeli forces began demolishing homes in southern Lebanon, and UN humanitarian operations paused in northern Gaza after the killing of two aid drivers.
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The Yemeni government stabilized the value of its currency, the riyal, by controlling exchange firms and managing remittances. However, this has caused a serious shortage of cash, making it hard for many Yemenis to get local money, which is hurting businesses and daily life.
Key Facts
The Yemeni central bank closed unauthorized exchange firms accused of currency speculation.
The riyal stabilized from about 2,900 to 1,500 Yemeni riyals per US dollar.
There is now a severe shortage of Yemeni riyal cash in government-controlled cities.
Banks limit daily currency exchanges and often refuse to convert foreign money like Saudi riyals and US dollars.
Many Yemenis cannot access their savings or use foreign currency due to cash shortages.
Businesses are closing or struggling because of the lack of local currency.
Government employees receive salaries in low-value banknotes, which merchants sometimes refuse.
The conflict in Yemen has caused a long economic crisis with shortages of money affecting public services and payments.
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Bulgarians are voting in their eighth parliamentary election in five years after protests ended the previous government. The election could bring a left-leaning, pro-Russian former president, Rumen Radev, to power as prime minister.
Key Facts
Bulgarians began voting at 7am local time and polls will close at 5pm GMT.
This is the eighth election in five years due to political instability and protests.
Protests in December involved mainly young people demanding an independent judiciary and less corruption.
Rumen Radev, a former air force general and ex-president, leads the centre-left Progressive Bulgaria party.
Radev supports stronger ties with Russia and opposes sending military aid to Ukraine.
He resigned as president in January to run for prime minister.
Opinion polls predicted his party could receive about 35% of the vote.
Bulgaria has 6.5 million people and has had many weak governments since 2021.
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Ben Roberts-Smith, Australia's most-decorated living soldier, denies all charges of war crimes related to murders in Afghanistan. He was arrested on April 7 and released on bail, saying he will fight the charges to clear his name.
Key Facts
Ben Roberts-Smith received the Victoria Cross, Australia's highest military honor.
He faces five charges, including murder and ordering or helping others to kill unarmed Afghan detainees between 2009 and 2012.
Roberts-Smith served as a corporal in the Australian Special Air Service (SAS) Regiment.
He says he acted within military rules and values during his time in Afghanistan.
He was arrested at Sydney airport and released on bail after a judge noted his case might take years before trial.
A previous 2023 civil case found some truth to the murder allegations on the balance of probabilities.
Roberts-Smith lost an appeal against that civil court decision.
The case is historic because it is the first time Australian courts have examined alleged war crimes by Australian forces.
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Iran says it has made some progress in talks with the United States to end the war but says a final deal is still far away. Iran also stated that the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed until the U.S. lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports. Meanwhile, fighting in Lebanon has killed one Israeli soldier and injured others.
Key Facts
Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said negotiations with the U.S. have progressed but important differences remain.
Iran demands the U.S. remove its naval blockade on Iranian ports before reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global shipping, especially oil transport.
One Israeli soldier was killed and nine wounded during combat in southern Lebanon.
A French peacekeeper was killed in an ambush in Lebanon, with France blaming Hezbollah, which denies involvement.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for respect of the ceasefire and end of hostilities in Lebanon.
French President Emmanuel Macron urged Lebanese authorities to arrest those responsible for the attack on peacekeepers.
President Donald Trump said an Iran peace deal could be reached soon after Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz.
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Hundreds of supporters of the far-right group Britain First marched in Manchester to celebrate Saint George, who is England’s patron saint. The article explains that Saint George has a special connection to Palestine, which the marchers may not have been aware of.
Key Facts
Britain First is a far-right political group in the UK.
Hundreds of its supporters took part in a march in Manchester.
The march was to celebrate Saint George, England’s patron saint.
Saint George is also recognized and respected in Palestine.
The connection between Saint George and Palestine is not widely known in the UK.
The article was reported by Al Jazeera journalists Nils Adler and Nida Ibrahim.
The event highlights different cultural and historical meanings of the same figure.
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The UK Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, expressed serious worry that government ministers were not informed earlier about security concerns during Lord Mandelson’s vetting for the US ambassador role. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces questions in Parliament after it emerged Mandelson failed security checks but was still appointed.
Key Facts
Lord Mandelson was appointed UK ambassador to the US despite failing a security vetting process.
Security vetting is done by a government agency to assess if someone can access sensitive information.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said ministers did not get this vetting information in time.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he was only told about the vetting failure in April 2025.
Sir Olly Robbins, the senior Foreign Office civil servant, was fired over the matter.
Mandelson started the ambassador job in February 2025 and was removed in September 2025 after more details about his links to Jeffrey Epstein surfaced.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said Starmer would not have approved the appointment if he had known about the vetting failure.
The Foreign Affairs Committee is set to question Sir Olly Robbins about the case.
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President Donald Trump said the US naval blockade on Iranian ports will stay until the US and Iran complete their transaction. In response, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz again, a key waterway for oil shipments, and Iranian forces reportedly attacked ships trying to pass through.
Key Facts
President Trump stated the US blockade on Iranian ports will continue until a deal with Iran is fully finished.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, an important passage for global oil shipments, again on Saturday.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard ships fired at a tanker passing through the strait.
An Indian-flagged oil tanker was also reported attacked in the waterway.
Trump held a White House meeting to discuss the crisis and the stalled peace talks with Iran.
A US official warned that without progress, conflict with Iran could restart soon.
Trump had previously claimed Iran agreed not to close the strait again, which proved to be incorrect.
Conflicting messages from the US and Iran damaged the chance for peace talks.
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