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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events
At least three people have died, and 20 others were hurt after the Gloria funicular railway derailed in Lisbon. The derailment occurred near Avenida da Liberdade and involved a collision with a building due to a cable coming loose.
Key Facts
Three people died in the accident.
20 others were injured.
The derailment occurred on the Gloria funicular railway, a famous cable railway in Lisbon.
Emergency services reported people were trapped at the site.
The incident took place near Avenida da Liberdade at around 18:05 on Wednesday.
The derailment happened because a cable came loose, causing the train to lose control.
Two people were reported to be in serious condition.
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Israeli drones dropped grenades near U.N. peacekeepers in southern Lebanon as they were clearing roadblocks. No one was injured in the incident. The U.N. criticized the action, describing it as one of the most serious incidents since the end of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, while Israel stated it did not intend to target the peacekeepers.
Key Facts
Israeli drones dropped four grenades near U.N. peacekeepers in southern Lebanon.
The U.N. peacekeeping force involved is called UNIFIL.
No peacekeepers were harmed by the grenades.
The Israeli military claimed they did not target UNIFIL and were acting against a suspect.
UNIFIL had notified the Israeli military about their road clearance work before the incident.
The incident took place less than a kilometer from the Israel-Lebanon border.
France and Qatar criticized the attack, citing it as a violation of international law.
The U.N. Security Council recently decided to end the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon by next year.
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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has warned the Trump administration that Israeli plans to annex parts of the West Bank could harm the Abraham Accords and may affect future peace efforts. Israel is thinking about annexing more areas in the West Bank following their recognition by some Western countries, which could disrupt peace in the region.
Key Facts
The UAE communicated to the Trump administration that West Bank annexation could damage the Abraham Accords.
The UAE was the first Arab nation to criticize attacks on Israel and has worked with Israel on future plans.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has discussed annexation, but no decisions are final yet.
President Trump has not taken a public stance this time, though he intervened in past annexations.
Emirati officials believe annexation would ruin the chance for regional peace and integration.
The UAE was assured no annexations in the 2020 accords, but Israel claims that condition has expired.
Emirati officials are concerned but have not stated they will revoke the peace agreement with Israel.
The White House and State Department have not commented on the UAE's warnings.
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China's President Xi Jinping and Russia's President Vladimir Putin were recorded discussing organ transplants and the possibility of humans living up to 150 years. This exchange took place ahead of a military parade in Beijing, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un also present. The conversation was in Mandarin and Russian, and the BBC translated it into English.
Key Facts
Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin talked about organ transplants.
They speculated these transplants could help humans live to 150 years.
The conversation occurred in Beijing during a military parade.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was present at this event.
The discussion was in Mandarin and Russian, translated by interpreters.
The BBC provided an English translation of the conversation.
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A woman known as the "Ketamine Queen," Jasveen Sangha, has admitted to selling drugs that led to the death of actor Matthew Perry. Sangha pleaded guilty to charges related to distributing ketamine, which caused Perry's overdose in October 2023. Several others involved in supplying Perry with ketamine have also admitted guilt in the case.
Key Facts
Jasveen Sangha pleaded guilty to five charges, including distributing ketamine resulting in death.
Matthew Perry was found dead in October 2023 due to acute effects of ketamine.
Sangha originally faced nine charges and changed her plea to guilty in August.
Four others involved, including two doctors and Perry's assistant, also pleaded guilty.
Sangha could face up to 65 years in federal prison.
Ketamine is a drug used for anesthetic purposes that can cause hallucinations.
Authorities found over 80 vials of ketamine and other drugs at Sangha's home.
Sangha was known to associate with celebrities and led a lavish lifestyle.
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King Charles visited a hospital in Birmingham where he joked about the challenges of aging. During the visit, he spoke with patients about their treatments and shared personal experiences. The King also toured a historical church and interacted with staff and patients at the hospital.
Key Facts
King Charles visited the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital in Birmingham.
He joked with patients about getting older, mentioning his own experiences over 70.
The visit had been postponed earlier due to the King's illness from cancer treatment.
He empathized with patients about their medical struggles and encouraged regular health check-ups.
The King engaged with staff and volunteers and took part in selfies and handshakes.
He also visited the Oratory of St Philip Neri in Birmingham, linked to Cardinal John Henry Newman.
The King looked at Cardinal Newman's personal items and discussed religious reconciliation efforts.
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UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner admitted she underpaid tax on a property in Hove after following incorrect advice. This incident has led to calls for her removal as her party, Labour, faces declining popularity amid various scandals and economic challenges. Rayner's future in the government may depend on an investigation by the independent adviser on ministerial standards.
Key Facts
Angela Rayner is the UK Deputy Prime Minister and also serves as the housing minister.
She admitted to underpaying property tax on a flat she bought in Hove, England.
Rayner initially relied on incorrect advice, leading to the tax mistake.
The opposition called for her dismissal following her admission.
Labour leader Keir Starmer defended Rayner, praising her transparency efforts.
Rayner is seen as a strong political asset due to her working-class background.
The Labour Party is dealing with several scandals, affecting its popularity in polls.
Investigations into Rayner's actions could determine her future in the government.
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Research published in The Lancet Global Health estimates that sanctions imposed by the US and European Union (EU) have been linked to 38 million deaths from 1970 to 2021. These sanctions often target countries in the Global South and mainly result in death through malnutrition and lack of essential services. The study highlights that children and the elderly are the most affected by the consequences of these sanctions.
Key Facts
Sanctions by the US and EU are linked to an estimated 38 million deaths from 1970 to 2021.
Over 60 countries in the Global South are currently under Western unilateral sanctions.
The sanctions often result in malnutrition and shortages of clean water and medicine.
In the 1990s, sanctions in Iraq led to significant health crises due to lack of basic necessities.
The study indicates that more than half of the sanction-related deaths are children and the elderly.
US sanctions aim to weaken targeted countries economically, as shown in historical documents.
Control over vital economic systems and technologies amplifies the impact of these sanctions.
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A search for a painting stolen by the Nazis led to the discovery of more potentially stolen art. Authorities investigated the home of Patricia Kadgien, the daughter of a Nazi official, but did not find the painting. However, other searches turned up additional artworks that could be looted.
Key Facts
Authorities searched for a painting called "Portrait of a Lady," missing for 80 years.
The painting was seen online in a house once owned by Nazi official Friedrich Kadgien.
Patricia Kadgien and her husband are under house arrest during the investigation.
Searches at other properties found two paintings and several drawings and engravings.
The artworks discovered will be analyzed to check if they were stolen during the war.
The painting in question was originally part of art dealer Jacques Goudstikker's collection.
Goudstikker's estate is working to recover all stolen artworks from the collection.
Local media stated that the Kadgiens claim the painting as an inherited possession.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin were overheard talking about the possibility of using organ transplants and biotechnology to extend life, including ideas about achieving immortality. This conversation was captured on a live broadcast during a military parade in Beijing, where the two leaders, along with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, were present. The event highlighted their interest in projecting a new world order and advancing biotechnology.
Key Facts
Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin discussed organ transplants as a way to extend life during a military parade in Beijing.
Putin suggested that advances in biotechnology might make eternal life possible.
The conversation was captured on a hot mic and broadcast live by Chinese state TV.
The leaders were joined by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at the parade.
Xi and Putin have been in power for 13 and 25 years, respectively, with no plans to step down.
Putin later spoke about the potential for longer life through modern medical and surgical methods.
The parade marked the first public appearance together of Chinese, Russian, and North Korean leaders, suggesting unity against Western nations.
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An iconic streetcar in Lisbon, Portugal derailed, causing 15 deaths and injuring 18 people. A national day of mourning is announced, and an investigation will determine the cause of the accident.
Key Facts
An electric streetcar in Lisbon derailed, killing 15 people and injuring 18 others.
The accident took place on a steep hill in downtown Lisbon.
Five of the injured people are in serious condition; one of them is a child.
Some of those injured are foreign tourists.
The derailment is described as Lisbon's worst recent accident.
Authorities have called for a day of national mourning in Portugal.
The streetcar, known as Elevador da Gloria, is a well-known tourist attraction.
An investigation into the accident's cause will begin after the rescue efforts.
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Epstein survivors, including Lisa Phillips, are considering releasing their own list of people linked to their abuse if the Justice Department does not make more documents public. This comes amid debates in Congress, where lawmakers are working on bills for better protections for sex trafficking victims and reviewing thousands of documents related to Epstein. A disagreement continues in Congress over making more Epstein files public.
Key Facts
Epstein survivor Lisa Phillips suggested releasing their own list of people involved in their abuse.
The suggestion came if the Justice Department does not share more documents.
Survivors aim to create a list "by survivors and for survivors."
The announcement followed press conferences urging Congress to pass protections for sex trafficking victims.
Over 33,000 Epstein-related documents were released by the House Oversight Committee.
Rep. Thomas Massie is seeking signatures to force Congress to release all Epstein files.
Speaker Mike Johnson introduced a resolution supporting ongoing Epstein investigations, which some see as ineffective.
The outcome of these congressional efforts remains uncertain.
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Leaders from China, Russia, and North Korea gathered in Beijing for a large parade to mark the end of World War II. This was the first time these leaders met together in the same place.
Key Facts
The parade took place in Beijing, China.
It marked the anniversary of the end of World War II.
Leaders from China, Russia, and North Korea attended.
This event was the first gathering of these three leaders in the same location.
The parade was described as elaborate, indicating it was large and well-planned.
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Israel launched a new spy satellite to improve its surveillance abilities throughout the Middle East. The satellite, called Ofek 19, will allow Israel to gather images and information from areas of interest, enhancing their military operations and intelligence capabilities.
Key Facts
Israel launched a spy satellite named Ofek 19 to enhance surveillance in the Middle East.
The satellite aims to increase Israel's ability to gather images and intelligence.
Defense Minister Israel Katz stated this move sends a message to Israel's enemies about their constant monitoring capabilities.
The satellite's launch supports Israel's military operations, described as a "seven-front war."
Israel has been conducting military operations in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and Gaza.
Israel's space program has been expanding, and the aerospace industry is a vital part of its economy.
Israel Aerospace Industries, the satellite's manufacturer, also exports its products to Europe, Asia, and North America.
The specific launch location of the satellite was not disclosed by Israel's military.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia will use military force to achieve its goals if Ukraine does not agree to a peace deal. He highlighted a potential meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, though such a meeting has yet not been agreed upon. Putin also attended a military parade in China, along with other global leaders.
Key Facts
Putin said Russia will meet its objectives in Ukraine through military means if necessary.
He expressed willingness to meet Ukrainian President Zelensky, but no plans are confirmed.
Putin attended a military parade in China with several world leaders, including North Korea's Kim Jong Un.
The conflict stems from Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which started in February 2022.
Russia demands Ukraine not join NATO and end what it sees as discrimination against ethnic Russians.
Putin rejected a ceasefire and continued military attacks, including a recent large-scale drone and missile strike.
United States President Donald Trump encouraged dialogue between Russia and Ukraine and has sought a ceasefire.
The meeting in China was viewed as a challenge to the U.S.-led global order.
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Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, spoke to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee about freedom of speech. During the meeting, he exchanged remarks with Congressman Jamie Raskin, who criticized him. Farage also expressed concerns about the Online Safety Act, saying it could limit free speech in Western countries.
Key Facts
Nigel Farage testified before the U.S. House Judiciary Committee on free speech issues.
U.S. Congressman Jamie Raskin called Farage a "Putin-loving, free-speech imposter and Trump sycophant."
Farage responded to Raskin's remarks by saying he was "charming" and claimed not to be bothered by the comments.
Farage warned that the Online Safety Act might threaten free speech across Western nations.
The discussion between Farage and Raskin highlighted differing views on political and free speech issues.
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Fossils found in Morocco reveal that a dinosaur named Spicomellus had an unusual body armor with long spikes, previously unseen in any other animal. This discovery changes what scientists know about the evolution of ankylosaurs, a type of dinosaur, and highlights the role of these elaborate features possibly in mating and defense.
Key Facts
Spicomellus lived over 165 million years ago in what is now Morocco.
Researchers found the dinosaur had long spikes on its neck and other areas.
This dinosaur's body armor was much more elaborate than previously believed.
Spicomellus had spikes and fused bones never seen in other vertebrates.
The dinosaur's tail structure hints at a weapon that evolved earlier than expected.
These features might have been used to attract mates and ward off rivals.
The find changes our understanding of ankylosaur evolution.
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Governors from California, Oregon, and Washington announced they will work together to create their own vaccine guidelines. This alliance is forming in response to concerns about politicization of vaccine policies by the CDC under the Trump administration. They aim to base their guidelines on scientific advice and improve public trust in vaccines.
Key Facts
California, Oregon, and Washington are creating the West Coast Health Alliance.
The alliance aims to develop vaccine guidelines independent of the CDC.
The move is a response to perceived political influence on the CDC.
Guidelines will focus on scientific recommendations from national medical groups.
The initiative hopes to build public trust in vaccines through clear communication.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has restricted COVID-19 vaccines to high-risk groups.
Vaccine advisors to the CDC are meeting to discuss mRNA vaccines.
The American Academy of Pediatrics and other groups have their own vaccine recommendations.
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The United States conducted a military strike on a boat in the Caribbean Sea, which the government claims was trafficking drugs from Venezuela to the U.S. This action has raised questions about its legality under international law, especially since the U.S. is not currently at war with Venezuela. Some experts believe it might have violated international human rights and maritime law.
Key Facts
The U.S. strike reportedly killed 11 people on a boat associated with the Tren de Aragua cartel.
The U.S. government stated that the boat was transporting drugs to the United States.
Legal experts suggest the strike could have breached international human rights and maritime law.
The U.S. has not signed the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea but often follows its rules.
Critics argue the strike may qualify as an "extrajudicial killing," which is unlawful without immediate danger.
The U.S. labeled the cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, linking it to irregular warfare against the U.S.
Some U.S. officials support the strike, viewing it as a strong action against illegal drug traffickers.
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