The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Guyana blames Venezuela for attack on election officials ahead of vote

Guyana blames Venezuela for attack on election officials ahead of vote

September 01, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

Guyana reported that election officials on a boat were shot at from Venezuelan territory just before its general election. This incident is part of a long-standing territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela over the Essequibo region. The disputed area is rich in oil and both countries have conflicting claims over it.

Key Facts

  • An attack occurred on a boat with election officials in Guyana before the national election.
  • The shooting was reportedly from the Venezuelan side in the disputed Essequibo region.
  • Guyana's security forces returned fire, and no injuries were reported.
  • Essequibo is a contested area claimed by both Guyana and Venezuela, known for its oil resources.
  • Venezuela conducted a referendum where many voters supported its claim to Essequibo.
  • Guyana has asked the International Court of Justice to help resolve the dispute, but Venezuela disagrees with the court's jurisdiction.
  • Guyana's President Irfaan Ali is running for a second term, facing challengers in a competitive election.
  • Guyana's recent economic growth is largely due to its oil discoveries, significantly boosting the country's GDP.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC World
More than 800 killed after strong quake hits Afghanistan

More than 800 killed after strong quake hits Afghanistan

September 01, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

A strong earthquake in eastern Afghanistan killed more than 800 people and injured nearly 3,000. Most casualties occurred in the remote mountainous Kunar province, making rescue efforts difficult. The area lacks proper roads and communications, and recent weather issues have further hampered rescue operations.

Key Facts

  • A magnitude-six earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan around midnight on Sunday.
  • Over 800 people died, and nearly 3,000 were injured.
  • The hardest-hit area is Kunar province, where entire villages were destroyed.
  • The epicenter of the quake was about 27km east of Jalalabad, in Nangarhar province.
  • Roads are blocked or inaccessible, so helicopters are needed for rescue missions.
  • There have been over 100 rescue flights since conditions improved.
  • Hospitals are overwhelmed with victims, complicating medical care.
  • Recent floods and landslides have made rescue operations even more challenging.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC World
North Korea's Kim leaves for China in armoured train

North Korea's Kim leaves for China in armoured train

September 01, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has traveled to China by train to attend a military parade in Beijing. This is Kim's first time attending a multilateral international event alongside leaders like China's President Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin. The parade commemorates the 80th anniversary of Japan's World War Two surrender.

Key Facts

  • Kim Jong Un left Pyongyang on Monday evening on an armoured train for a parade in Beijing.
  • The parade, known as "Victory Day," marks the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War Two.
  • The event will be Kim's first multilateral meeting with other world leaders.
  • Kim's train journey is expected to take up to 24 hours.
  • This is the first time since 1959 that a North Korean leader attends a Chinese military parade.
  • Kim's train has about 90 carriages and includes luxury amenities.
  • Most Western leaders are not attending due to opposition to Russia's actions in Ukraine.
  • Leaders from several countries, including Japan's surrender anniversary, will attend the parade.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC World
Guyana holds general election as candidates vie for control of country’s oil

Guyana holds general election as candidates vie for control of country’s oil

September 01, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Guyana held a general election where voters chose between several parties to decide who would manage the country's significant oil revenues. The election featured the ruling People's Progressive Party, the main opposition A Partnership for National Unity, and a new party called We Invest In Nationhood. The contest comes as Guyana's economy is growing rapidly due to offshore oil production.

Key Facts

  • Guyana held a general election with significant focus on managing oil and gas revenues.
  • The country produces nearly 900,000 barrels of oil daily, contributing to strong economic growth.
  • The main parties in the election are the People's Progressive Party and A Partnership for National Unity.
  • A newcomer party, We Invest In Nationhood, aimed to attract younger voters.
  • The People's Progressive Party, led by President Irfaan Ali, seeks re-election by focusing on past achievements.
  • Opposition leader Aubrey Norton accuses the ruling party of corruption and poor management of oil money.
  • The World Bank highlights Guyana as the world's fastest-growing economy in recent years.
  • Azruddin Mohamed, leading the new party WIN, was sanctioned by the U.S. for alleged corruption but denies the accusations.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
Trump defends U-turn on Chinese student visas after Maga backlash

Trump defends U-turn on Chinese student visas after Maga backlash

September 01, 2025 • BBC US

Summary

U.S. President Donald Trump explained his decision to grant 600,000 Chinese student visas. This comes despite criticism from some supporters who disagree with the move. Trump argues that allowing Chinese students benefits the U.S. economy and improves relations with China.

Key Facts

  • Trump decided to grant 600,000 student visas to Chinese nationals.
  • He reversed his earlier tough stance on Chinese students to aid ongoing trade talks with China.
  • Some supporters of Trump, particularly from his Maga base, oppose this decision.
  • Trump claims Chinese students contribute financially to smaller U.S. universities.
  • U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously suggested revoking these visas, targeting students linked to the Chinese Communist Party.
  • Relations between the U.S. and China have been tense due to a trade war, even though there's currently a truce on tariffs.
  • The visas will be issued over the next two years, consistent with past years.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC US
Jones gets new role as Starmer revamps No 10 team

Jones gets new role as Starmer revamps No 10 team

September 01, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Sir Keir Starmer has made changes to his team in Downing Street, appointing Darren Jones to a key new role. The reshuffle aims to make the government more effective as Parliament resumes, following a summer focused on issues like asylum and migration.

Key Facts

  • Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the UK government, has reshuffled his team at Downing Street.
  • Darren Jones, formerly chief secretary to the Treasury, is now chief secretary to the Prime Minister.
  • James Murray replaces Jones at the Treasury, while Dan Tomlinson takes Murray's former role.
  • There is a shift in the communications team, with James Lyons leaving his position.
  • The shake-up aims to enhance government efficiency and tackle priorities like economic growth.
  • Darren Jones was first elected as an MP in 2017 and has held significant roles since then.
  • The government intends to enter "phase two" after spending its first year addressing foundational issues.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC Top Stories
From us

You're the one who keeps this going

No ads, no paywall. Pay what you want to keep it that way — suggested $3.99/month.

Support us
Some of Ukraine’s children start school in underground classrooms to avoid Russian bombs

Some of Ukraine’s children start school in underground classrooms to avoid Russian bombs

September 01, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Students in Bobryk, Ukraine, have started the new school year in underground classrooms to stay safe from Russian attacks. The school moved classes to a basement due to frequent air raid alerts, allowing students to continue their education in person. Teachers and students are adapting to these changes as the conflict persists.

Key Facts

  • Ukrainian students in Bobryk are attending school in basement classrooms for safety reasons.
  • The switch to underground classes started two years ago when air raid alerts disrupted regular schooling.
  • The basement classrooms are part of an administrative building and lack windows and doors.
  • The school serves about 100 students, with smaller class sizes, some as few as seven children.
  • Since the Russian invasion, approximately 10% of the school's students have left the area.
  • Children and teachers are adapting to learning conditions, despite frequent air raid alerts and drone threats.
  • The original school building remains unused due to security concerns.
  • Some families are relocating due to safety fears, impacting student numbers.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
BBC reports from scene as Afghanistan earthquake rescue mission gets under way

BBC reports from scene as Afghanistan earthquake rescue mission gets under way

September 01, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

A strong earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of at least 800 people. Helicopters are being used in rescue operations to reach people trapped in hard-to-access areas.

Key Facts

  • A 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan.
  • At least 800 people have died due to the earthquake.
  • The United Nations' humanitarian agency reported these statistics.
  • Helicopters are deployed to assist in rescue missions.
  • The affected regions are difficult to reach, necessitating air support.
  • The BBC is reporting from the scene of the disaster.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC World
What to know about Indonesia’s deadly nationwide unrest over lawmakers’ perks

What to know about Indonesia’s deadly nationwide unrest over lawmakers’ perks

September 01, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Violent protests in Indonesia have resulted in seven deaths as people express anger over lawmakers' benefits. The unrest began in Jakarta and spread to other cities, with incidents of buildings being set on fire and looting. President Prabowo Subianto ordered security forces to act firmly against the ongoing chaos.

Key Facts

  • Protests began in Jakarta and spread to other cities in Indonesia.
  • Seven people have died due to the clashes, including a 21-year-old ride-hailing driver.
  • The unrest is linked to public anger over lawmakers receiving high housing allowances.
  • Protesters set fire to government and police buildings.
  • More than 460 people have been injured, and 97 have been hospitalized.
  • President Subianto canceled a planned trip to China to address the protests.
  • Subianto ordered police and military to take harsh measures against the disorder.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
Sumud Flotilla for Gaza forced to turn back due to weather conditions

Sumud Flotilla for Gaza forced to turn back due to weather conditions

September 01, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The Global Sumud Flotilla, which was carrying aid to Gaza, turned back to Barcelona due to strong winds on the Mediterranean Sea. The flotilla aims to challenge the blockade on Gaza by bringing humanitarian supplies but had to delay its journey for safety reasons.

Key Facts

  • The Global Sumud Flotilla is bringing aid to the blockaded Gaza Strip.
  • Poor weather with winds over 30 knots (about 56 km/h) forced them to turn back.
  • The flotilla returned to Barcelona's La Vela port due to safety concerns.
  • A second attempt to leave is expected soon.
  • The flotilla includes over 50 ships from 44 countries.
  • The flotilla consists of civilian vessels with volunteers and aid supplies.
  • Organizers plan for more ships to join from other Mediterranean locations.
  • This is the third recent attempt to break the Gaza blockade; similar past missions have been intercepted.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
At least 800 people killed as earthquake hits eastern Afghanistan

At least 800 people killed as earthquake hits eastern Afghanistan

September 01, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A powerful earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan, causing over 800 deaths and injuring at least 2,800 people. The Afghan government is working with international partners to provide aid and rescue efforts in the affected areas.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.1 and struck just before midnight on Sunday.
  • Over 800 people died, and at least 2,800 were injured in the provinces of Kunar and Nangarhar.
  • Helicopters transported the injured to hospitals, and rescue teams searched for survivors.
  • The Afghan Ministry of Defence sent 30 doctors and 800 kilograms of medical supplies to help.
  • Afghanistan is prone to earthquakes due to its location near tectonic plates.
  • The United Nations and countries like Iran and China have offered aid and support.
  • The earthquake risk is higher in mountainous regions, which can trigger landslides.
  • In October 2023, another major earthquake in Afghanistan resulted in over 2,000 deaths.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
Why do shallow earthquakes cause more destruction than deep ones?

Why do shallow earthquakes cause more destruction than deep ones?

September 01, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

A 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Afghanistan near the Pakistan border late Sunday night. This shallow earthquake, with a depth of about 8 kilometers, caused significant damage, killing at least 800 people and injuring 2,500 more. Shallow earthquakes tend to be more destructive because their energy is released closer to the Earth's surface.

Key Facts

  • A magnitude 6 earthquake struck eastern Afghanistan.
  • The earthquake's epicenter was at a depth of about 8 kilometers.
  • At least 800 people died, and 2,500 were injured.
  • Shallow earthquakes cause more damage due to closer energy release to the surface.
  • Afghanistan is located in a highly active seismic zone.
  • The Hindu Kush area frequently experiences both shallow and deep earthquakes.
  • Earthquakes are measured using seismographs, and depth affects their destructive power.
  • The tectonic collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate contributes to seismic activity in the region.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
From us

Pay what you want

We're reader-funded instead of ad-funded. You decide what no-spin news is worth.

Support us
Modi and Putin affirm special relationship as India faces steep US tariffs over Russian oil imports

Modi and Putin affirm special relationship as India faces steep US tariffs over Russian oil imports

September 01, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in China during a regional summit to strengthen their countries' relationship. This meeting occurred as India faces increased U.S. tariffs due to its purchase of Russian oil. Modi and Putin emphasized their countries' strong ties and discussed energy cooperation and regional stability.

Key Facts

  • Modi and Putin met at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, China.
  • Both leaders described their countries' relationship as "special and privileged."
  • The meeting comes after the U.S. imposed higher tariffs on Indian imports, partly due to India's purchase of Russian oil.
  • Russia and India aim to enhance their trade and energy partnerships.
  • Putin plans to visit India in December for an annual summit.
  • Modi voiced support for efforts to resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
  • The U.S. has warned India about buying Russian oil, suggesting it funds the Ukraine conflict.
  • The meeting highlighted cooperation among India, Russia, and China amidst tensions with the U.S.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
Pope Leo meets LGBTQ+ Catholic advocate and vows continuity with Pope Francis’ legacy of welcome

Pope Leo meets LGBTQ+ Catholic advocate and vows continuity with Pope Francis’ legacy of welcome

September 01, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Pope Leo XIV met with Rev. James Martin, a well-known advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church. Leo expressed his intention to continue the welcoming approach of his predecessor, Pope Francis, towards LGBTQ+ individuals in the church. This meeting happened shortly before an LGBTQ+ Catholic pilgrimage to the Vatican.

Key Facts

  • Pope Leo XIV met with Rev. James Martin in Vatican City.
  • Martin is a Jesuit author advocating for greater LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church.
  • Pope Leo confirmed he will continue Pope Francis' welcoming policies towards LGBTQ+ people.
  • The meeting was announced by the Vatican as a public gesture.
  • Pope Francis, during his papacy, was known for making the church more inclusive for LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Leo's previous remarks raised questions about his stance on LGBTQ+ issues, but he supports inclusivity while upholding church doctrine.
  • Rev. Martin is involved in a pilgrimage of 1,200 LGBTQ+ Catholics to the Vatican, which includes a significant Mass event.
  • The pilgrimage is not officially sponsored by the Vatican but is mentioned on their Holy Year events calendar.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
“Access is difficult” to areas in Afghanistan affected by earthquake

“Access is difficult” to areas in Afghanistan affected by earthquake

September 01, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Reaching areas affected by the earthquake in Afghanistan is challenging. Thamindri de Silva from World Vision Afghanistan explains the obstacles that response teams face.

Key Facts

  • An earthquake has recently hit Afghanistan.
  • Thamindri de Silva is the National Director for World Vision Afghanistan.
  • Response teams are trying to reach the affected areas.
  • Access to these areas is difficult.
  • World Vision is involved in addressing the situation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
Israel “military does not agree” with taking over Gaza City

Israel “military does not agree” with taking over Gaza City

September 01, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Israel's military reportedly does not agree with a plan to take over Gaza City. A senior fellow from the Middle East Council on Global Affairs explained why there is opposition to this military action and the lack of an agreed ceasefire with Gaza.

Key Facts

  • Israel's military is said to disagree with a plan to take over Gaza City.
  • The plan involves an offensive led by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
  • Adel Abdel Ghafar, a senior fellow, provided insights on this topic.
  • There is no current ceasefire agreement in place with Gaza.
  • The Middle East Council on Global Affairs is monitoring the situation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
Israel committing genocide in Gaza, scholars group says

Israel committing genocide in Gaza, scholars group says

September 01, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) declared that Israel's actions in Gaza fit the legal definition of genocide under international law. The decision received strong support from the academic community, highlighting a broad consensus in the field of genocide studies. This declaration adds to ongoing international legal challenges facing Israel related to its military operations in Gaza.

Key Facts

  • IAGS is a global body with 500 genocide scholars that made the declaration.
  • The scholars based their conclusion on the 1948 UN Convention on Genocide.
  • 86% of IAGS members supported the resolution labeling Israel's actions as genocide.
  • The resolution urged Israel to stop harming civilians and denying essential needs.
  • The declaration aligns with broad academic agreement on the issue.
  • Israel faces accusations at the International Court of Justice for genocide.
  • The International Criminal Court also issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders on war crimes and crimes against humanity charges.
  • More than 63,000 Palestinians have died, and large-scale displacement and destruction occurred in Gaza since October 2023.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Al Jazeera
Warwick Davis to reprise role in Harry Potter TV series

Warwick Davis to reprise role in Harry Potter TV series

September 01, 2025 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Warwick Davis will return as Professor Filius Flitwick in a new Harry Potter TV series, confirmed by HBO. The series will feature a new cast adapting the well-known Harry Potter books and is expected to take 10 years to complete, with the first season launching in 2027.

Key Facts

  • Warwick Davis will reprise his role as Professor Filius Flitwick in the new Harry Potter TV series.
  • This series marks the first time a Harry Potter film actor has returned for a television adaptation.
  • Leigh Gill will play Griphook, a role previously played by Warwick Davis in the movies.
  • Other new cast members include Elijah Oshin as Dean Thomas and Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape.
  • Production of the series began earlier this year at Warner Bros Studios in Leavesden, the same location as the Harry Potter films.
  • The series aims to be a faithful adaptation of J.K. Rowling's book series and will have more time to explore its plotlines.
  • The series is planned to take 10 years to complete, with its first season set for a 2027 release.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC Top Stories
From us

Pay what it's worth to you

We dropped the ads. Support independent, no-spin news at the suggested $3.99/month.

Support us
Strikes across Gaza kill at least 31 as international scholars accuse Israel of genocide

Strikes across Gaza kill at least 31 as international scholars accuse Israel of genocide

September 01, 2025 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

On Monday, Israeli strikes across the Gaza Strip resulted in at least 31 deaths, according to health officials. Genocide scholars and human rights organizations are accusing Israel of committing genocide, which the country strongly denies. The conflict follows an October attack by Hamas-led militants on southern Israel.

Key Facts

  • Israeli airstrikes and artillery hit the Gaza Strip, resulting in at least 31 deaths, more than half of whom were women and children.
  • The strikes are part of a larger offensive, particularly targeting Gaza City.
  • The war has resulted in significant casualties, with over 63,000 Palestinians reported killed and more than 160,000 injured since the conflict began in October.
  • Scholarly organizations and human rights groups accuse Israel of genocide; Israel denies these charges, insisting it targets only militants.
  • The conflict began after Hamas-led militants killed 1,200 people in Israel on October 7, 2023, and took 251 hostages.
  • Currently, around 48 hostages are believed to still be in Gaza, with Israel estimating about 20 are alive.
  • The International Association of Genocide Scholars claims Israel's actions in Gaza meet the legal definition of genocide.
  • Israel refutes the genocide claim, describing the accusations as based on misinformation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

PBS NewsHour
Afghanistan earthquake: What we know - and what we don't

Afghanistan earthquake: What we know - and what we don't

September 01, 2025 • BBC World

Summary

A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0 hit eastern Afghanistan, with hundreds of people feared dead. The quake struck near the city of Jalalabad and was felt in nearby areas, including Kabul and Pakistan. Rescue efforts are complicated by blocked roads, lack of communication, and the challenging terrain.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake had a magnitude of 6.0 and struck Afghanistan's eastern region near Jalalabad.
  • It occurred at 23:47 local time on Sunday and was 8 km deep.
  • Hundreds of people are feared dead, and buildings are destroyed.
  • Aftershocks followed the initial quake, causing more damage.
  • Roads to the epicenter are blocked due to landslides, making rescue efforts difficult.
  • The Taliban is using helicopters for relief operations.
  • International aid is needed, and there are no restrictions on it entering the country.
  • Afghanistan is experiencing an economic crisis, affecting its ability to cope with the disaster.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

BBC World
Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account