Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

From New Zealand to Orkney: Why we brought this classic car half way round the world

From New Zealand to Orkney: Why we brought this classic car half way round the world

Summary

Cathleen Hourie in Orkney, Scotland acquired a rare Austin 3-Litre classic car from a seller, Hans Compter, in New Zealand. Hans traveled across the globe to personally deliver the car. The journey included shipping the car to the Netherlands and driving it to Scotland.

Key Facts

  • Cathleen Hourie bought a classic Austin 3-Litre car from New Zealand.
  • Seller Hans Compter delivered the car himself, traveling from New Zealand to Scotland.
  • Hans shipped the car to the Netherlands and then drove it to Orkney on a vintage truck.
  • The 1970 Austin was part of Hans' car collection in New Zealand.
  • Cathleen paid a four-figure sum for the vehicle, which is now 55 years old.
  • Hans got the Opel Blitz truck temporarily stuck during his journey in Scotland.
  • Fewer than 10,000 Austin 3-Litre cars were originally made, with about 30 left operational today.

Source Verification

Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano Erupts Prompts Ashfall Warning

Hawaii's Kilauea Volcano Erupts Prompts Ashfall Warning

Summary

Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii erupted, causing the U.S. Geological Survey to raise alert levels and issue warnings due to ashfall. The eruption resulted in significant ash emissions affecting public safety and air travel, and led to road and park closures on Hawaii Island.

Key Facts

  • Kilauea Volcano erupted at its summit in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
  • The U.S. Geological Survey raised the Volcano Alert Level to Warning and the Aviation Color Code to Red.
  • Ash and tephra fell on downwind communities, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
  • Lava fountains during the eruption were over 1,300 feet high.
  • An eruption plume reached up to 30,000 feet above sea level.
  • The National Weather Service issued an Ashfall Warning for Hawaii Island.
  • Highway 11 was closed between mile markers 24 and 40 due to tephra fall.
  • Authorities warned of health risks from volcanic gas, ash, and Pele’s hair.

Source Verification

As Iran shows no signs of surrender, U.S. launches 'most intense' day of strikes

As Iran shows no signs of surrender, U.S. launches 'most intense' day of strikes

Summary

The conflict between the U.S.-Israel and Iran continues with ongoing military actions. The U.S. claims to have significantly damaged Iran's nuclear fuel production and targeted sea mines related to threats in the Strait of Hormuz.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. and Israel are engaged in a military conflict with Iran.
  • Both sides continue to engage in strikes against each other.
  • The U.S. claims to have destroyed much of Iran’s capability to produce nuclear fuel.
  • President Trump said the U.S. forces attacked sea mines linked to Iranian threats.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a significant location where these sea mines were targeted.

Source Verification

Iran War: Ukraine Sends Military Personnel to Gulf, Zelensky Says

Iran War: Ukraine Sends Military Personnel to Gulf, Zelensky Says

Summary

Ukraine has sent military and drone experts to the Gulf region to help protect against Iranian drone and missile attacks. This move follows requests from allies, including the United States, and aims to bolster regional defense without weakening Ukraine's defenses at home.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine sent military and drone specialists to help in the Gulf region.
  • The deployment is in response to requests from partners, including the U.S.
  • Iran has been using low-cost drones, affecting regional air defenses.
  • Ukraine has developed tactics against these drones during its conflict with Russia.
  • President Zelensky suggests exchanging Ukrainian expertise for U.S. Patriot missiles.
  • Ukrainian specialists are assisting with the protection of military bases and infrastructure.
  • At least 7 U.S. service members have died in the Iran conflict in the last 11 days.
  • President Trump expressed openness to receiving international assistance.

Source Verification

A look at evidence linking U.S. to Iranian school strike

A look at evidence linking U.S. to Iranian school strike

Summary

The United States is investigating an explosion at a school in Minab, Iran. Iran reports over 150 deaths, mostly schoolgirls, due to the strike. A U.S. official suggests the strike might have been conducted by U.S. forces.

Key Facts

  • The explosion happened at a school near an Iranian navy base in Minab.
  • Iran reports that the explosion killed over 150 people, mainly schoolgirls.
  • The U.S. is currently investigating the incident.
  • A U.S. official told PBS News that early findings suggest the strike was American.
  • The event is described as the deadliest strike of the ongoing conflict.
  • Experts are analyzing videos and satellite images to understand the situation better.

Source Verification

Afghans stranded for a year by Trump's refugee freeze now caught in new war

Afghans stranded for a year by Trump's refugee freeze now caught in new war

Summary

President Trump's freeze on refugee processing left many Afghans stuck on a military base in Qatar for over a year. These 1,100 Afghan refugees are now facing danger again due to Iran's missile attacks.

Key Facts

  • President Trump paused refugee processing, affecting many Afghans.
  • Around 1,100 Afghan refugees were waiting to go to the U.S.
  • They have been stranded on a disused military base in Qatar.
  • The situation has lasted for more than a year.
  • These refugees are now at risk due to missile attacks from Iran.

Source Verification

Democrats say White House offers no clarity on Iran war goals after 11 days

Democrats say White House offers no clarity on Iran war goals after 11 days

Summary

Eleven days into the war with Iran, several Democrats expressed frustration after a confidential briefing, stating they still lack clear reasons and end goals for the conflict under President Trump. They have criticized the war's high cost and the risk to American troops, while the Trump administration cites Iran's nuclear and missile programs as justifications. The war has resulted in many casualties, with conflicting timelines and objectives presented by U.S. officials.

Key Facts

  • U.S. Democrats are dissatisfied with the lack of clear reasons and end goals for the war with Iran.
  • The war started on February 28, launched jointly by the U.S. and Israel.
  • Democrats have tried to pass a resolution to limit President Trump's war powers, but it failed due to Republican opposition.
  • Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the high cost of the war, estimated to exceed $5.6 billion in the first two days.
  • Concerns were raised about the possible deployment of U.S. troops to Iraq or Iran.
  • The war has resulted in at least 1,682 deaths across different countries.
  • U.S. officials have presented shifting timelines for the war, stating it will continue until Iran is definitively defeated.
  • The Trump administration cites Iran's nuclear and missile programs as reasons for the conflict.

Source Verification

Do You Get Heart Palpitations When Lying Down?

Do You Get Heart Palpitations When Lying Down?

Summary

Heart palpitations are unusual sensations in the chest that can feel like fluttering or racing. They may occur when lying down due to pressure changes in the chest and stomach areas. Most palpitations are not serious and can be managed through lifestyle changes, but ongoing symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.

Key Facts

  • Heart palpitations are feelings of abnormal fluttering or racing of the heart.
  • They can happen when lying down due to pressure changes in the chest area.
  • Causes of palpitations can include stress, anxiety, and certain health conditions.
  • Consuming too much caffeine or certain medications can also trigger palpitations.
  • Simple lifestyle changes can often help reduce palpitations.
  • Serious heart issues like arrhythmia or congenital defects can also cause palpitations.
  • If palpitations come with symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, see a doctor.
  • Doctors may use tests like an electrocardiogram to diagnose the issue.

Source Verification

WATCH: U.S. seems 'on a path' to deploying ground troops in Iran, Blumenthal says after classified briefing

WATCH: U.S. seems 'on a path' to deploying ground troops in Iran, Blumenthal says after classified briefing

Summary

Senator Richard Blumenthal expressed his dissatisfaction after a classified briefing about the possibility of the U.S. deploying ground troops to Iran. He mentioned having more questions than answers regarding the costs related to this potential military action.

Key Facts

  • Senator Richard Blumenthal attended a classified briefing on the U.S.’s actions involving Iran.
  • He spoke publicly about his concerns following the briefing.
  • Blumenthal was left with questions about the financial implications of deploying troops.
  • The briefing took place with the Senate Armed Services Committee.
  • Blumenthal described himself as dissatisfied and angry after the briefing.

Source Verification

WATCH: White House says Trump will accept outcome of investigation into bombing of school in Iran

WATCH: White House says Trump will accept outcome of investigation into bombing of school in Iran

Summary

President Donald Trump will accept the results of an investigation into a bombing at a girl's school in Iran. The attack killed 165 people, and the Tomahawk cruise missile, a U.S.-made weapon, is suspected to have been used. There is no evidence that Iran has access to this missile.

Key Facts

  • President Trump agreed to accept the investigation's outcome about the school bombing in Iran.
  • The bombing resulted in 165 deaths at a girls' school in Iran.
  • The Tomahawk cruise missile, which is made in the U.S., is suspected to have been used in the attack.
  • White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Trump has a right to share his opinions publicly.
  • There is no evidence Iran has obtained the Tomahawk missile.
  • Raytheon, an American company, makes and sells the Tomahawk to some U.S. allies.
  • President Trump claimed he was unsure why he was the only one saying Iran has the missile.

Source Verification

Electric grid faces political roadblocks as it struggles with data center demand

Electric grid faces political roadblocks as it struggles with data center demand

Summary

The demand on the electric grid is rising as attention turns to fossil fuels amidst the war in Iran. The report shows a decrease in solar panel installations while the Trump administration reduces support for some renewable energy sources.

Key Facts

  • The electric grid is experiencing increased demand.
  • The ongoing war in Iran has highlighted reliance on fossil fuels.
  • There is a reported 14% decrease in solar panel installations in the past year.
  • The Trump administration has rolled back financial support for some renewable energy sources.
  • This information is reported as part of a series called Tipping Point by Science Correspondent Miles O'Brien.

Source Verification

MSPs back six month amendment to assisted dying bill

MSPs back six month amendment to assisted dying bill

Summary

Scottish lawmakers have supported a change to a proposed assisted dying law, adding a requirement that only those expected to die within six months can access the service. The bill, which allows terminally ill adults to seek assistance in ending their lives, is still being debated, with a final vote expected soon. There is ongoing discussion about the risks of coercion and the bill's workability.

Key Facts

  • Scottish lawmakers, known as MSPs, are debating the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill.
  • An amendment was added so that only those expected to die within six months can use the service.
  • The bill aims to allow terminally ill, mentally competent adults to seek help in ending their lives.
  • A final vote on the bill is expected next week.
  • The change aligns Scotland's proposed law with similar laws in other countries.
  • Concerns have been raised about the possibility of coercing vulnerable people into ending their lives.
  • The Scottish Parliament is reviewing about 300 amendments to the bill.
  • The bill narrowly passed a previous vote with 70 in favor and 56 against.

Source Verification

State Department approves up to $40M to evacuate Americans from Mideast on charter flights

State Department approves up to $40M to evacuate Americans from Mideast on charter flights

Summary

The U.S. State Department has approved up to $40 million to fund evacuation flights for Americans in the Middle East due to transportation problems caused by the Iran war. These funds come from a budget typically used for emergencies involving U.S. diplomatic staff. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has waived the usual rule that private citizens must repay the government for evacuation costs.

Key Facts

  • The State Department is using up to $40 million for evacuation flights in the Middle East.
  • This money is from a fund usually set aside for diplomatic emergencies.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio waived the repayment requirement for private Americans.
  • The U.S. advised Americans in 14 Middle Eastern countries to leave due to the Iran war.
  • Criticism exists regarding the department's past performance in crisis situations.
  • Over 40,000 Americans have returned home since the Iran war started in February.
  • Most Americans returned via commercial flights, with only 40% opting for U.S. charters.
  • The charter flights have many empty seats, with less than 40% occupancy on average.

Source Verification

Queen says she stands by survivors of sexual violence

Queen says she stands by survivors of sexual violence

Summary

Queen Camilla of the UK expressed her support for survivors of sexual violence during a speech on International Women's Day. She highlighted the importance of breaking the culture of silence that enables violence and called for positive influences on young men. Her speech also noted themes of solidarity and advocacy for women's rights and equality.

Key Facts

  • Queen Camilla supported survivors of sexual violence in a speech on International Women's Day.
  • She emphasized standing with victims in solidarity, sorrow, and sympathy.
  • The speech did not mention specific individuals like Jeffrey Epstein, although some perceived a reference.
  • The event took place at St James's Palace as part of the Women of the World group's activities.
  • Queen Camilla called for challenging negative influences on social media directed at boys and young men.
  • She has a history of activism against violence towards women and girls.
  • The Queen wrote a personal letter to a French survivor of sexual violence, praising her courage.
  • Camilla has previously criticized a culture where violence against women is seen as normal.

Source Verification

Deal needed to restore trade routes, boss of shipping giant tells BBC

Deal needed to restore trade routes, boss of shipping giant tells BBC

Summary

The CEO of Maersk, a major shipping company, says that a deal between the US, Israel, and Iran is needed to restore safe shipping routes in the Middle East. The conflict in the region has halted vital trade routes, impacting global trade and increasing shipping costs. Measures like naval escorts have been suggested to ensure the safety of shipping and the flow of goods.

Key Facts

  • The conflict among the US, Israel, and Iran has disrupted key shipping routes in the Middle East.
  • The disruption has significantly increased shipping costs and affected the global economy.
  • Drone strike threats make it unsafe for shipping companies to risk their ships and crews in the area.
  • The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for oil transport, is nearly closed due to the conflict.
  • The closure of these routes has led shipping companies to take longer, more expensive routes.
  • The increased shipping costs are passed on to consumers, raising prices for transported goods.
  • Governments, including the US and France, have suggested using naval escorts to help secure shipping routes.

Source Verification

Shelter Gets Call About a Senior Dog—Then Staff Finds His File From 2016

Shelter Gets Call About a Senior Dog—Then Staff Finds His File From 2016

Summary

A senior dog named Paco was returned to the Trumbull Animal Group (TAG) shelter, where he was originally adopted in 2016, after his owner passed away. The shelter is providing medical care for Paco and hopes to find him a new home. The story highlights challenges older dogs face in finding adoptive families due to concerns about health and lifespan.

Key Facts

  • Paco is a 13-year-old Chihuahua mix.
  • He was adopted from the Trumbull Animal Group (TAG) in 2016 and returned after his owner died.
  • TAG is providing medical care for Paco, including bloodwork and a planned surgery.
  • The surgery aims to remove a lipoma (a fatty lump) and address dental issues.
  • Senior dogs often struggle to find homes, with lower adoption rates compared to younger dogs.
  • TAG shared Paco's story on Facebook, receiving many reactions but no adoption interest yet.
  • Community donations are helping cover Paco’s veterinary costs.
  • Supportive items can improve the quality of life for senior dogs in shelters.

Source Verification

Ivanna Ortiz Lawyer Speaks Out After Rihanna House Shooting

Ivanna Ortiz Lawyer Speaks Out After Rihanna House Shooting

Summary

Ivanna Lisette Ortiz was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after allegedly shooting at the home of singer Rihanna in Los Angeles. Attorney Aaron Williams, who represents Ortiz in a separate personal injury case, urged the public not to judge Ortiz until all facts are known.

Key Facts

  • Ivanna Lisette Ortiz was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder in Los Angeles.
  • Ortiz allegedly fired shots from a car outside Rihanna’s home; no one was injured.
  • Rihanna, her partner A$AP Rocky, and their three children were home during the incident.
  • Ortiz is involved in a separate personal injury lawsuit stemming from a car crash in Orlando.
  • Police found an "AR-15-style" rifle, ammunition, and a wig in Ortiz's car.
  • Ortiz is being held on $10.2 million bail.
  • Authorities have not announced a motive for the shooting.
  • Los Angeles County District Attorney is expected to provide further details after Ortiz's court appearance.

Source Verification

U.S. destroys 10 Iranian vessels amid worries of mines in Strait of Hormuz

U.S. destroys 10 Iranian vessels amid worries of mines in Strait of Hormuz

Summary

The U.S. military destroyed ten Iranian naval vessels that could deploy mines in the Strait of Hormuz. This action aimed to prevent potential threats to ships passing through this important oil route. President Trump warned of severe military consequences if Iran attempted to lay mines in the area.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. military targeted ten Iranian mine-laying ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Concerns arose about Iran potentially placing mines in this vital waterway.
  • About 20% of the world's oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
  • President Trump announced the strike and threatened severe consequences if Iran mined the area.
  • There were no reports confirming mines had been placed in the waterway.
  • The U.S. used technology similar to that used against drug traffickers for this strike.
  • CNN indicated that Iran may have started laying some mines, but not extensively.

Source Verification

Defence secretary Hegseth warns of 'most intense' day of US war on Iran

Defence secretary Hegseth warns of 'most intense' day of US war on Iran

Summary

The U.S. is having its "most intense" day of strikes in the conflict with Iran, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The U.S. aims to destroy Iran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear weapons development. President Trump assured that the conflict will not lead to prolonged engagements like past Middle East wars.

Key Facts

  • U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported Tuesday as the "most intense" day of strikes in Iran.
  • The U.S. aims to destroy Iran's missile stockpiles and navy while stopping its nuclear weapon development.
  • Iran's missile attacks have decreased by 90% since the conflict began.
  • Since the war's start on February 28, seven U.S. service members have died, and 140 have been injured.
  • The International Energy Agency discussed ways to stabilize global oil markets amid rising prices.
  • The U.S. military plans to keep the Strait of Hormuz open for oil tankers.
  • President Trump warned of severe consequences if Iran attempts to disrupt oil shipments.

Source Verification

Large parts of Dresden to be evacuated after 250kg WW2 bomb found

Large parts of Dresden to be evacuated after 250kg WW2 bomb found

Summary

A large, unexploded World War Two bomb was found in Dresden, Germany, leading to the evacuation of much of the city center. Around 18,000 people, including residents, tourists, and commuters, need to leave the area for safety reasons. Authorities plan to provide temporary housing and extra transport to help people during the evacuation.

Key Facts

  • A 250kg unexploded bomb from World War Two was discovered in Dresden.
  • The bomb was found near the Carola Bridge, which collapsed in the Elbe River in 2024.
  • This situation involves evacuating about 18,000 people from central Dresden.
  • Important landmarks in the evacuation area include Frauenkirche church, the Residenzschloss Palace, and the Semper Opera.
  • Emergency shelters will be set up at the Dresden Exhibition Centre.
  • More buses and trams will run to help people reach the emergency shelters.
  • It is unknown how long it will take to safely defuse the bomb.
  • Dresden's bombing during World War Two led to significant loss of life and destruction in the city.

Source Verification