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The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Harry and Meghan's trip felt like a royal tour - except many Aussies weren't interested

Harry and Meghan's trip felt like a royal tour - except many Aussies weren't interested

April 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle completed a four-day private visit to eastern Australia. Their trip included events about Indigenous culture, sports, charity, and a war memorial, but many Australians were unaware or uninterested in their visit.

Key Facts

  • The visit lasted four days and covered the east coast of Australia.
  • Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals and traveled privately.
  • Their 2018 visit, while active royals, attracted tens of thousands of people over nine days.
  • Many Australians during this trip showed little interest or knowledge about their visit.
  • There were concerns that Australian taxpayers might pay for some security costs.
  • Their public appearances were carefully controlled to avoid negative reactions or interruptions.
  • The couple engaged warmly with some individuals, including fans and victims of past events.
  • Mental health and social media bullying were notable topics during their meetings.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Chernobyl's last wedding: The couple who married as a nuclear disaster unfolded

Chernobyl's last wedding: The couple who married as a nuclear disaster unfolded

April 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Iryna Stetsenko and Serhiy Lobanov got married in Pripyat on April 26, 1986, while the Chernobyl nuclear disaster was happening nearby. They were unaware of the full scale of the accident as information was limited, and their wedding took place amid confusion and tension.

Key Facts

  • The wedding occurred just after midnight on April 26, 1986, in Pripyat, a Soviet city near the Chernobyl nuclear plant.
  • At that time, reactor number four at the Chernobyl plant had exploded and was releasing dangerous radioactive material.
  • The couple and their guests initially had little clear information due to strict Soviet censorship.
  • Residents were told not to panic, and daily life, like going to school and events, was officially continuing.
  • Serhiy noticed soldiers in gas masks and efforts to clean the streets with foam early that morning.
  • Firefighters and plant workers risked lethal radiation doses overnight to fight the power plant fire.
  • Iryna and Serhiy later moved to Berlin to escape conflict decades after the disaster.
  • Their wedding story highlights the uncertainty and danger faced by people living near Chernobyl during the disaster.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
Scammers are becoming ever more sophisticated - this is what the fightback looks like

Scammers are becoming ever more sophisticated - this is what the fightback looks like

April 18, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Scammers are using more advanced tricks to steal money and personal information from victims worldwide. One example is Kirsty from the UK, who lost £80,000 to a scammer pretending to be a British businessman. Governments and companies are working together internationally to fight these scams, but the criminals keep improving their methods.

Key Facts

  • Kirsty met a man on a dating website who claimed to be a British businessman living in Turkey.
  • The man asked Kirsty to buy a phone and send money, claiming he had been robbed.
  • Kirsty sent £80,000 over two months, including £50,000 borrowed from family.
  • The scammer was actually Nigerian, using fake pictures and a voice disguiser.
  • The fake banking website shown to Kirsty was registered in Baltimore, USA.
  • Reports of romance scams in the UK rose by 20% between early 2024 and 2025.
  • The UK lost £106 million to scams in 2024 according to City of London police.
  • The Global Anti-Scam Alliance states worldwide fraud losses exceed half a trillion dollars annually.
  • Scams increased during Covid lockdowns due to more online activity and improved scamming technology.
  • International cooperation agreements have been made to combat scams, but criminals are still hard to catch.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories BBC World
Queen Elizabeth II’s official biographer named as historian Anna Keay

Queen Elizabeth II’s official biographer named as historian Anna Keay

April 18, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Historian Anna Keay has been named the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. She will interview people who knew the queen and study her personal papers to write the biography.

Key Facts

  • Anna Keay is a historian known for her books on British history.
  • She will have access to Queen Elizabeth II’s personal and official papers in the royal archives.
  • Keay has worked closely with the royal family and was assistant curator for Historic Royal Palaces.
  • She has written several books about the British monarchy.
  • King Charles wanted a female author to write the official biography of Queen Elizabeth II.
  • Keay is a trustee of the Royal Collection Trust and part of the Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee.
  • She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to write about the queen’s life and work.
  • Queen Elizabeth II was the longest-reigning monarch in British history.
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Guardian World
New charity to remember Queen Elizabeth 100 years since her birth

New charity to remember Queen Elizabeth 100 years since her birth

April 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK government is creating the Queen Elizabeth Trust with a £40 million fund to honor Queen Elizabeth II on the 100th anniversary of her birth. The charity, supported by King Charles III, will improve community spaces and support local events, reflecting the Queen’s dedication to public service.

Key Facts

  • The Queen Elizabeth Trust is a new charity funded by the UK government with £40 million.
  • King Charles III will serve as the patron of the charity.
  • The charity aims to restore shared community spaces like parks and buildings.
  • It also plans to help people get skills and training to organize local events.
  • Queen Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1924, and died in 2022 at age 96.
  • The charity is one of three projects to remember the Queen’s public service.
  • On her 100th birthday, the Royal Family is holding several events, including a visit to the British Museum and a reception at Buckingham Palace.
  • Award-winning historian Dr. Anna Keay will write the Queen’s official biography using her papers and interviews with people who knew her.
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BBC Top Stories
Pope Leo says he is not trying to debate Trump, but preach peace in Africa

Pope Leo says he is not trying to debate Trump, but preach peace in Africa

April 18, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Pope Leo said he is not trying to argue with President Donald Trump. Instead, he wants to focus on spreading a message of peace in Africa.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo addressed reports that suggested he was having a disagreement with President Trump.
  • He clarified that his goal is to preach peace, especially in Africa.
  • The pope’s statement was shared by CBS News.
  • The news emphasized that Pope Leo wants to promote harmony, not conflict.
  • This message was delivered amid ongoing discussions involving the pope and President Trump.
  • The focus is on reducing tensions and encouraging peaceful actions in African countries.
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CBS News
Ukrainian authorities investigating Kyiv mass shooting as a terror attack

Ukrainian authorities investigating Kyiv mass shooting as a terror attack

April 18, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Ukrainian officials are investigating a mass shooting in Kyiv that killed at least six people. The attacker, who was a local resident, was killed after a gunfight with police.

Key Facts

  • The incident took place in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine.
  • At least six people died in the shooting.
  • Ukrainian authorities are treating the case as a terror attack.
  • The attacker was a local man from Kyiv.
  • The attacker died in a shootout with the police.
  • Officials are still investigating the motive and details of the attack.
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CBS News
Where things stand in the Strait of Hormuz

Where things stand in the Strait of Hormuz

April 18, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport, has been tense for seven weeks because of actions by Iran. A reporter recently visited the area to provide an update on the situation.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is an important passage where a large portion of the world’s oil shipments pass through.
  • For seven weeks, Iran has taken measures that have increased tensions in this area.
  • Iran’s actions have been seen as using the strait as a strategic tool or "weapon."
  • A CBS News reporter named Imtiaz Tyab visited the strait to see what is currently happening there.
  • The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is watched closely because it affects global energy supplies and international relations.
  • The report was made available through CBS News and its app for viewers.
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CBS News
The South Korean authors rising above a tide of hate to become bestsellers

The South Korean authors rising above a tide of hate to become bestsellers

April 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

In South Korea, female writers are gaining popularity despite facing strong criticism, especially from some men opposing feminism. This year, women won all categories of the country’s top literary prize, and new community spaces help women share their stories and grow as writers.

Key Facts

  • Seen Aromi’s memoir about enjoying single life became a bestseller in early 2024 in South Korea.
  • Many men criticized her online, calling her selfish and accusing her of betraying the country.
  • Feminism is a very controversial topic in South Korea, leading to online attacks and social pushback.
  • Women won all six categories of the Yi Sang literary awards in 2024 for the first time.
  • Writing groups and reading rooms called guelbang provide support for women writers to develop their skills and community.
  • The MeToo movement from 2016 encouraged more women in South Korea to speak up and share their experiences.
  • Sales of translated Korean books have more than doubled in 2024 compared to last year.
  • Seen Aromi’s success led to an international translation deal with Penguin publishing.
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BBC Top Stories BBC World
4/18: CBS Weekend News

4/18: CBS Weekend News

April 18, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

CBS Weekend News covered the situation at the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route. President Donald Trump expressed hope for a diplomatic solution to ongoing conflicts in the region.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is an important waterway for global oil shipments.
  • Tensions or conflicts near the strait can affect international trade and security.
  • President Donald Trump spoke about the situation, showing optimism for diplomacy.
  • Diplomacy means solving problems through talks and agreement instead of fighting.
  • CBS News reported on these developments during their weekend news program.
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CBS News
Sunday shows preview: Trump, Iran spar over Strait of Hormuz control as ceasefire deadline nears

Sunday shows preview: Trump, Iran spar over Strait of Hormuz control as ceasefire deadline nears

April 18, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump and Iranian officials are in conflict over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas transport. The U.S. has set up a blockade there, and the strait reopened on Friday morning amid ongoing calls for a 10-day ceasefire from Israel and Lebanon.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is an important waterway for moving oil and gas worldwide.
  • President Trump ordered a U.S. blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Iran and the U.S. are disagreeing about control of this area.
  • The strait was closed but reopened on Friday morning.
  • Israel and Lebanon have called for a ceasefire lasting 10 days.
  • The ceasefire request is related to Iran’s involvement in the regional conflict.
  • Tensions remain high as countries negotiate peace and control of the strait.
  • The situation affects global energy security and international relations.
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The Hill
Murphy tells US, world progressives to take ‘lessons’ from Hungary elections

Murphy tells US, world progressives to take ‘lessons’ from Hungary elections

April 18, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator Chris Murphy spoke at a global progressive conference in Barcelona, saying that progressives in the U.S. and other countries should learn from each other. He mentioned the defeat of Hungary’s former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán as an example that can help rebuild democracy worldwide.

Key Facts

  • Senator Chris Murphy represents Connecticut and is a member of the Democratic Party.
  • Murphy spoke at the first Global Progressive Mobilization conference in Barcelona, Spain.
  • He encouraged progressives from different countries to share lessons and strategies.
  • Murphy highlighted the recent election defeat of Viktor Orbán, Hungary’s former Prime Minister.
  • He suggested this event shows a way forward to strengthen democracy.
  • The focus was on international cooperation among progressives to address political challenges.
  • The article referenced ongoing concerns about democracy’s health in various countries.
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The Hill
Iran reasserts control of Hormuz Strait as Trump warns against ‘blackmail’

Iran reasserts control of Hormuz Strait as Trump warns against ‘blackmail’

April 18, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iran’s navy announced it is closing the Strait of Hormuz again and will target any ship trying to pass through until the United States lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports. This decision reversed a brief reopening of the strait during a ceasefire period in the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. President Donald Trump warned Iran against trying to use the strait to pressure the US and said the blockade would continue.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy declared the Strait of Hormuz closed and threatened to target any vessel attempting to pass.
  • The strait was briefly reopened but closed again less than 24 hours later due to the US naval blockade.
  • Iran demands the US lift the blockade on its vessels and ports, calling it a violation of a ceasefire agreement.
  • Iranian gunboats reportedly fired on two commercial ships, including Indian-flagged vessels.
  • Iran’s parliament speaker said the country controls the Strait of Hormuz and criticized the US blockade decision.
  • President Donald Trump said Iran cannot blackmail the US and pledged to maintain the blockade and end the ceasefire if no deal is reached soon.
  • Both Iran and the US maintain competing blockades, causing increased tensions in the strategic waterway.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping lane, important for global oil transport.
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Al Jazeera
Items found near Israeli embassy are non-hazardous, police say

Items found near Israeli embassy are non-hazardous, police say

April 18, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Police in London found suspicious items near the Israeli embassy but said they were not dangerous. Counter-terrorism officers are investigating a social media video that threatened an attack with drones carrying harmful substances.

Key Facts

  • Suspicious items were found near the Israeli embassy in Kensington Gardens, London.
  • Police closed Kensington Gardens while experts checked the items.
  • The items included two jars with a powdered substance, which were not harmful.
  • A social media video showed a threat of a drone attack on the embassy.
  • The video was linked to Iran-related group Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia.
  • The group has posted videos of other attacks and attempted attacks in London.
  • Police have not connected this incident to the other attacks.
  • Emergency teams, including chemical and hazardous area experts, were involved in the investigation.
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BBC Top Stories
Strait of Hormuz: Open, closed, open, closed - What's actually happening?

Strait of Hormuz: Open, closed, open, closed - What's actually happening?

April 18, 2026 • France24

Summary

Iran has repeatedly opened and closed the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil trade. Iran said it will target any ship passing through until the United States ends its blockade.

Key Facts

  • The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial channel for commercial shipping, especially oil transport.
  • Iran first opened the Strait on Friday for commercial vessels.
  • Shortly after, Iran decided to close the Strait again.
  • Iran accuses the United States of "piracy" in the area.
  • Iran warns that any ship approaching the Strait will be targeted until the U.S. blockade is lifted.
  • The situation has caused confusion and increased tension in the region.
  • This development affects global oil markets and international security.
  • Discussions and reports continue as the situation evolves.
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France24
While Trump lashes out at Spain, US Democrats join a progressive rally in Barcelona

While Trump lashes out at Spain, US Democrats join a progressive rally in Barcelona

April 18, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Progressive leaders from several countries met in Barcelona to support democracy and global cooperation. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hosted the event, which included U.S. Democrats like Senator Chris Murphy and Governor Tim Walz, while President Donald Trump criticized Spain and its government on social media.

Key Facts

  • The meeting took place in Barcelona, Spain, focusing on progressive politics and defending international rules.
  • Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, a critic of President Trump’s policies, hosted the event.
  • U.S. Senator Chris Murphy and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz represented the Democratic Party at the summit.
  • Leaders from Brazil, South Africa, and other left-leaning governments also attended.
  • The group discussed concerns about attacks on the global system, international law, and the increased use of force.
  • President Trump criticized Spain’s economy and military contributions to NATO on social media.
  • Sánchez highlighted the populist right’s decline and called out their positions on climate change, xenophobia, and sexism.
  • The gathering aimed to strengthen progressive cooperation against unilateral actions by some world leaders.
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AP News
What consumers can do as the Iran war impacts the cost and availability of flights

What consumers can do as the Iran war impacts the cost and availability of flights

April 18, 2026 • AP News

Summary

The conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran is causing higher fuel costs and flight shortages around the world. Airlines have raised fees and cut routes, and passengers may see higher prices and fewer options for travel this spring and summer.

Key Facts

  • The war involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran is reducing global oil supplies.
  • Jet fuel prices rose from about $99 to $209 per barrel between February and April.
  • Some airlines, like Air Canada, are suspending or cutting flights to save fuel costs.
  • Airlines including United, Delta, Air France-KLM, SAS, Philippine Airlines, and Cathay Pacific have reduced routes or raised prices.
  • European countries may face jet fuel shortages soon, forcing more flight reductions.
  • The Strait of Hormuz remains a risky passage for oil shipments due to the conflict.
  • Travel experts recommend booking flights early if the schedule and price are acceptable.
  • Passengers should avoid basic economy tickets as they have more restrictions and less flexibility during uncertain times.
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AP News
Strait of Hormuz closed again, Iran says, as ships attacked

Strait of Hormuz closed again, Iran says, as ships attacked

April 18, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Iran’s military said it is closing the Strait of Hormuz again to commercial ships and will target any vessels that approach. This action comes after attacks on ships in the area and ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States over a US blockade of Iranian ports. The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil shipments, and the closure has affected shipping and oil prices worldwide.

Key Facts

  • Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the Strait of Hormuz is closed to commercial vessels again.
  • Any ship approaching the strait will be considered cooperating with the enemy and may be attacked.
  • Recent attacks include Iranian gunboats firing on a tanker and a container ship hit by an unknown projectile near Oman.
  • The US has been enforcing a naval blockade of Iranian ports since April 13, turning away 23 ships.
  • President Donald Trump said the blockade will continue until a peace deal is reached with Iran.
  • Iran’s Supreme National Security Council called the US blockade a violation of a ceasefire agreement.
  • About 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas usually pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Some ships managed to pass when the strait was briefly open, but many had to change routes due to the closure.
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BBC World BBC Top Stories
Audio of Indian Oil Tanker Under Iranian Fire in Hormuz: ‘Let Me Turn Back’

Audio of Indian Oil Tanker Under Iranian Fire in Hormuz: ‘Let Me Turn Back’

April 18, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Iran fired on two Indian merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz after closing the waterway again following a brief reopening. The attacks increased tensions between Iran and the United States and raised concerns about the safety of global oil shipping routes.

Key Facts

  • Iran fired on two Indian-flagged ships, including the motor tanker Sanmar Herald, in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The firing occurred after Iran reversed a one-day reopening of the strait.
  • The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps told ships not to move from certain areas or they would be targeted.
  • The U.S. continues to enforce a blockade of Iranian ports, including turning back 23 ships since it began.
  • India formally protested by summoning Iran’s ambassador and emphasized the safety of its merchant ships.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a vital passage for about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
  • Iran’s new Supreme Leader warned the navy is ready to take strong action against enemies.
  • The incident followed a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah that is due to expire soon.
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Newsweek
Iran military orders Indian ship to abort Strait of Hormuz passage

Iran military orders Indian ship to abort Strait of Hormuz passage

April 18, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Iran’s military ordered an Indian ship to stop passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran says it has closed the Strait again because the United States is blocking its ports.

Key Facts

  • Iran told an Indian ship to stop its passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The incident was caught on video.
  • Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz closed again.
  • Iran says this action is a response to a U.S. blockade of its ports.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for international shipping.
  • The United States is involved in restrictions against Iranian ports.
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Al Jazeera