A mother in New York City has shared how she gets all four of her children, all under two years old, to sleep through the night by 6 to 10 weeks old. She follows a strict and consistent nightly routine including bath time, bottles, and quiet activities, and stresses the importance of routine and support like a night nurse.
Key Facts
The mother is 41 years old and lives in New York City.
She has four children under the age of two who share one bedroom.
All children started sleeping through the night by 6 to 10 weeks old.
Their routine includes dinner at 5:30 p.m., bath around 6:45 p.m., followed by bottles and books before bedtime.
Consistency in timing and activities every night is key to their success.
They use a night nurse during the newborn phase to help manage care.
The mother adjusts feeding and nap times to ensure the babies are ready to sleep.
Challenges include the children waking each other and the older ones wanting to unzip sleep sacks or climb out of cribs.
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President Donald Trump said a "new dawn for Cuba" is coming and urged people to watch what happens next. He hinted at possible U.S. military action in Cuba, similar to a recent operation in Venezuela where Nicolás Maduro was captured.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke at a Turning Point USA event about helping Cuba after 70 years of hardship.
Trump mentioned U.S. military planning in Cuba but did not confirm specific actions.
A U.S. news report said the Pentagon is preparing military plans for Cuba, but this has not been officially confirmed.
Trump previously threatened a "friendly takeover" of Cuba, calling the country "very weakened."
Cuba is facing economic and humanitarian crises, including blackouts and shortages of food and medicine.
Cuba’s main oil supplier, Venezuela, was affected when Maduro was captured in a U.S. operation.
The U.S. has had an embargo on Cuba since 1959, which Trump’s administration strengthened after briefly easing under President Obama.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said he is ready to defend the revolution and expresses no fear despite U.S. threats.
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Pope Leo XIV is visiting Angola as part of his tour of Africa. About 40% of Angola’s people are Catholics, so this visit is important for the country’s large Catholic community.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV is currently on a tour of Africa.
Angola has a significant Catholic population, around 40% of its people.
The Pope’s visit is seen as a meaningful event by Angola’s Catholics.
The visit connects Angola’s Catholic community directly with the Vatican.
The trip is part of the Pope’s ongoing efforts to engage with African countries.
Angola is preparing to welcome Pope Leo XIV during this visit.
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Iran's military announced it closed the Strait of Hormuz again on April 18, 2026, after briefly reopening it and while more than a dozen commercial ships were passing through. This move happened amid tensions related to a US blockade and comes shortly after President Donald Trump said a peace deal involving the US, Israel, and Iran was close.
Key Facts
Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed again on April 18, 2026.
The strait had been reopened just hours earlier.
More than a dozen commercial ships were passing through the strait when it was closed again.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway used for international shipping, especially oil transport.
The closure relates to a US blockade in the region.
President Donald Trump had expressed optimism about a peace deal to end conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran just the day before.
The situation increased uncertainty around stability in the Middle East.
European countries, including Britain and France, have engaged in talks related to the Strait of Hormuz.
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Pope Leo XIV gave a strong message to Cameroon's President Paul Biya, speaking out against tyranny as many people in Cameroon feel worried about their future. The pope's message was unusual in its directness and called for peace and justice in the country.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV addressed President Paul Biya of Cameroon directly with a strong message.
The pope condemned tyranny, meaning unfair or harsh rule.
Many Cameroonians are feeling afraid about what will happen in their country.
The pope's message was seen as important and necessary by some local religious leaders.
Pope Leo XIV held a large mass in Douala, one of Cameroon's main cities.
This visit and message are part of the pope's efforts to promote peace in Africa.
The pope has recently been involved in speaking out about conflicts and human rights issues in different African countries.
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Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif completed separate trips to Iran and Turkiye to support peace talks between the United States and Iran. These diplomatic efforts aim to promote a negotiated settlement and help end tensions, with more talks expected soon in Islamabad.
Key Facts
Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Tehran for three days and met Iran’s leaders and peace negotiators.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif traveled to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye to push the peace process forward.
Iranian officials recently met in Islamabad with US representatives, marking the highest-level talks in decades, but no agreement was reached.
A ceasefire involving Iran is set to expire on April 22.
Iran reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz after it briefly reopened due to a ceasefire in Lebanon.
The United States, under President Trump, has praised Pakistan’s leadership for its role in facilitating talks.
More US-Iran negotiations are planned to take place soon in Pakistan.
Pakistan aims to support peace, stability, and economic growth in the region through these diplomatic efforts.
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Iran has reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz after initially stating it would reopen the vital shipping route. Iran says it will keep the strait controlled and block transit as long as the U.S. continues its blockade on Iranian ports.
Key Facts
Iran reversed its decision to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil shipments.
Iran’s military command announced it is again managing and controlling the strait strictly.
Iran’s restrictions will remain as long as the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports continues.
President Donald Trump confirmed the U.S. blockade will stay until Iran makes a deal, including on its nuclear program.
About 20% of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
Control of the strait gives Iran leverage amid ongoing tensions involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran in the Middle East.
Iran’s reopening followed a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, but the ceasefire terms remain disputed.
The situation affects global energy markets, contributing to price uncertainty.
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Fifteen people deported from the US have arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) as part of a US immigration policy. DR Congo says the stay of these deportees is temporary and that the US is paying for their care and support.
Key Facts
The US deported 15 people to DR Congo, mostly from South America, including Colombians and Peruvians.
This is the first group under a deal where DR Congo agreed to accept some deportees from the US.
The deportees are considered "third-country migrants," meaning they are from neither the US nor DR Congo originally.
DR Congo says it will not permanently relocate these individuals and that the US funds their reception and care.
The US has deported people to other African countries like Ghana, South Sudan, and Eswatini as part of President Trump's immigration crackdown.
The US government claims it is committed to stopping illegal immigration and improving border security.
A US Senate report estimated that the Trump administration might have spent more than $40 million on third-country deportations by early 2026.
The US is also working on a minerals deal with DR Congo and has helped mediate peace talks involving DR Congo and Rwanda.
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A security vetting scandal involving Peter Mandelson, who failed the UK security check to become ambassador to the US, has caused a major crisis in the UK diplomatic service. Oliver Robbins, a civil servant dismissed after the scandal broke, is defended by a former Foreign Office chief who says Robbins was unfairly treated by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The issue has raised questions about the vetting process and political decisions.
Key Facts
Peter Mandelson failed the UK security vetting for ambassador to the US in January 2025.
Oliver Robbins, a senior civil servant, reportedly knew about this failure but did not inform ministers.
Robbins was dismissed shortly after the news broke, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying he only recently learned about the vetting outcome.
Former Foreign Office chief Simon McDonald criticized the dismissal of Robbins as unfair and rushed.
The vetting process indicated a "high" security concern and recommended denying clearance for Mandelson.
The Foreign Office overruled this recommendation and approved Mandelson for the ambassador role.
Robbins is expected to explain his side at a parliamentary committee soon, which may challenge the government’s account.
The scandal is described as the largest crisis in the UK diplomatic service in decades.
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President Donald Trump has warned that the U.S. may resume bombing Iran if a deal is not reached by the end of the current two-week ceasefire. While the Strait of Hormuz has reopened for shipping, tensions remain as both sides prepare for talks to possibly end the conflict and address Iran's nuclear program.
Key Facts
A two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is nearing its end.
President Trump said the U.S. might resume bombing if no deal is made.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway, has been reopened for commercial ships by Iran.
The U.S. is maintaining a naval blockade on Iran until a complete agreement is reached.
The conflict started with strikes called Operation Epic Fury, involving the U.S. and Israel.
Thousands of people have died in the war, mostly in Iran, Lebanon, Iraq, and Israel.
The war has caused global economic concerns, including an oil shortage warning by the IMF.
The U.S. and Iran are working to finalize a deal focusing on Iran’s nuclear materials.
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Pope Leo XIV held a large religious service in Douala, Cameroon, where he encouraged people to seek peace and remove oppressive leaders from their countries. He expressed hope that citizens will work together to end violence and tyranny.
Key Facts
Pope Leo XIV led a major Mass event in Douala, Cameroon on April 17, 2026.
He urged citizens to pursue peace in their nations.
The Pope called for rooting out tyrants, or cruel rulers, causing harm.
This message was part of a broader call for peace amid conflicts in Africa.
The statement came during ongoing regional violence including Sudan’s civil war.
The Pope previously visited Algeria, marking a historic first for a pontiff in that country.
The article is related to recent African political and social challenges.
The news was issued on April 18, 2026.
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With the French presidential election one year away, many political parties are holding internal votes to choose their candidates. The right-wing party Les Républicains is debating whether to hold a primary election, but some leaders, including Laurent Wauquiez, criticize the hesitation to organize such a vote.
Key Facts
The French presidential election is scheduled for one year from now.
Political parties are conducting internal polls to select their candidates.
Les Républicains is a major right-wing party in France.
Bruno Retailleau leads Les Républicains.
The party is deciding this weekend whether to hold a primary vote.
Laurent Wauquiez, a party figure, has criticized the reluctance to hold a primary.
Andrew Smith, a historian at Queen Mary University of London, commented on the political situation in France ahead of the election.
Other recent political topics in France include security talks related to the Strait of Hormuz and debates about laws on antisemitism.
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The V&A East museum has opened its first exhibition called The Music is Black, which highlights the history and influence of Black British music from its African roots to modern styles like grime and drill. The exhibition features 200 items and aims to show that Black British music is a key part of the UK’s cultural story.
Key Facts
The Music is Black is the first exhibition at V&A East, focusing on Black British music.
It covers music history from early African drumbeats to current genres like pop, grime, and drill.
The exhibition includes 200 items, some permanently acquired and others on loan.
Iconic pieces include an outfit worn by Pauline Black, lead singer of the band the Selector.
The show follows other Black British music exhibitions but is larger in scale.
The exhibit highlights contributions by artists like Stormzy and historical movements like 2 Tone.
Black music has made up 80% of the UK music industry’s earnings over the past 30 years.
V&A East is a new museum space costing £135 million and opened in Stratford, London.
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A European satellite company owned by a NATO defense contractor is licensed to provide services to dozens of Chinese satellites linked to China’s military. The company, Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT), communicates with satellites owned by Chang Guang Satellite Technology, which has ties to Chinese government and defense research. Norwegian authorities recently threatened KSAT with fines for unauthorized satellite communications.
Key Facts
KSAT is a European satellite company owned by a NATO defense contractor and partly by the Norwegian government.
KSAT services 42 satellites from Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co. Ltd. (CGSTL), China’s largest commercial satellite firm.
CGSTL was established by China’s Jilin provincial government and a state research institute involved in national defense.
The Chinese company has provided support to Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have attacked U.S. interests.
Norwegian regulator NKOM accused KSAT of illegally communicating with five satellites and threatened fines.
KSAT did not confirm details due to confidentiality rules and denied involvement with the satellites cited by NKOM.
KSAT operates a major ground station in Svalbard, Norway, providing uplink and downlink services for polar orbit satellites.
KSAT has significant business with the U.S. government, including recent contracts for missile defense services.
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Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to commercial ships during a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon. This announcement led to a drop in oil prices, while President Donald Trump supported the reopening but kept a U.S. naval blockade active. At the same time, leaders from France and the UK are planning a neutral mission to help secure the shipping route.
Key Facts
Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz completely open for commercial shipping amid a Lebanon ceasefire.
The announcement caused oil prices to fall sharply.
President Donald Trump welcomed the reopening but maintained a U.S. naval blockade in the area.
France’s President Emmanuel Macron and the UK are leading efforts for a neutral mission to protect shipping in the strait.
Shipping companies remain cautious and want more clarity about safety before fully resuming operations.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil shipments.
The Lebanon ceasefire is fragile and linked to tensions involving Iran and other regional actors.
European leaders are discussing strategies to address security and defense concerns related to the region.
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Madonna appeared as a surprise guest during Sabrina Carpenter’s headline set at Coachella. They performed several songs together, including some from Madonna’s new album and her hit “Vogue.” Madonna also announced a new album called Confessions II.
Key Facts
Madonna joined Sabrina Carpenter on stage during Carpenter’s Friday night headlining set at Coachella.
They sang “Vogue,” “Like A Prayer,” and a new song called “I Feel So Free” from Madonna’s latest album.
Madonna confirmed the upcoming release of Confessions II, a sequel to her 2005 album Confessions On A Dance Floor.
Madonna first performed at Coachella in 2006 and returned briefly in 2015 during Drake’s set.
The 2024 Coachella festival is held in Indio, California, and attracts over 100,000 people daily.
Justin Bieber will headline the second weekend on Saturday, followed by Karol G on Sunday.
Madonna called her Coachella return “a full circle moment” marking 20 years since her first performance there.
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After the ceasefire in Lebanon, many families are returning to southern towns like Nabatieh, which have been badly damaged by the fighting. People are trying to rebuild their lives with the help of aid, while dealing with the trauma and destruction caused by the war.
Key Facts
A ceasefire has been reached in Lebanon.
Many displaced families are going back to their homes in southern Lebanon.
Towns such as Nabatieh suffered heavy damage to houses, businesses, and public services.
Residents rely on aid to meet basic needs as they start rebuilding.
People feel both relief from the ceasefire and distress from the war’s impact.
The report was made by the news team from France 24.
The situation is connected to conflict involving Lebanon, Israel, and the wider Middle East.
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Thousands of people in southern Lebanon are returning to their homes after recent fighting with Israel, despite warnings about the fragile ceasefire. Many of these people view themselves as displaced within their own country rather than as refugees.
Key Facts
The return is happening in southern Lebanon, where conflict with Israel occurred.
Authorities have warned that the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel is fragile.
Thousands of residents are going back to their villages despite the risks.
Most returning people consider themselves internally displaced, meaning they were forced to leave their homes but stayed inside Lebanon.
The report was made by journalist Cyril Payen from Beirut for FRANCE 24.
The situation relates to ongoing conflict and instability in the Middle East.
This return follows a recent ceasefire agreement between the two sides.
The article includes related news about regional tensions and diplomacy.
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A small monkey named Punch at Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan is gaining popularity around the world because of its cute appearance and touching story. A reporter went to see the monkey in person to understand why so many people like it.
Key Facts
Punch is a tiny macaque monkey living at Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan.
The monkey has become popular on the internet and is often called "the internet’s favorite monkey."
People are drawn to Punch because of his cute looks and a heartwarming backstory.
A journalist named Juju Chang visited the zoo to report on Punch’s growing fame.
The story highlights how animals can capture public attention across the world.
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Keir Starmer is facing criticism after it was revealed that Peter Mandelson was appointed as the UK ambassador to the US even though he did not pass security checks. Starmer said he was not informed about this situation and blamed the Foreign Office for the appointment. Mandelson had been dismissed previously because of his connections with Jeffrey Epstein.
Key Facts
Peter Mandelson was appointed UK ambassador to the United States despite failing security checks.
The appointment took place under Keir Starmer's leadership.
Starmer said he was never told about Mandelson's failed security checks.
Starmer blamed the UK Foreign Office for the decision.
Mandelson was removed from a previous position due to his links with Jeffrey Epstein.
This issue is causing growing pressure on Keir Starmer.
The controversy is part of UK political news involving government appointments and security procedures.
The story highlights concerns about vetting processes for important diplomatic roles.
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