Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Australian fugitive shot dead by police after seven months on the run

Australian fugitive shot dead by police after seven months on the run

Summary

Australian police shot and killed Dezi Freeman, a fugitive, after a seven-month search. Freeman was wanted for allegedly killing two police officers in August during a child sex abuse investigation. No officers were injured in the incident, and authorities will investigate the shooting.

Key Facts

  • Dezi Freeman was killed by police after being on the run for seven months.
  • He was wanted for allegedly shooting two police officers in August.
  • The incident took place in Porepunkah, a small town in Victoria, Australia.
  • The police officers were Detective Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart.
  • They were at Freeman's home with a search warrant for a child sex abuse investigation.
  • The police shooting occurred at a rural property in north-east Victoria.
  • No police officers were injured in the recent shooting.
  • An investigation into the police shooting is underway, as per standard procedure.
Read the Original

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

Nancy Mace Insists ‘Congress Should Have a Say’ on Ground Troops in Iran

Nancy Mace Insists ‘Congress Should Have a Say’ on Ground Troops in Iran

Summary

Congresswoman Nancy Mace, a Republican from South Carolina, stated that Congress should be involved in decisions about deploying U.S. ground troops in Iran. She expressed concern about starting a ground war without congressional approval, amidst signs of potential military operations by the Trump administration.

Key Facts

  • Nancy Mace is a Republican Representative from South Carolina.
  • Mace believes Congress should approve any U.S. ground troop deployments in Iran.
  • The Trump administration is preparing for possible limited operations in Iran, though no decision has been made.
  • Some younger Republicans at the Conservative Political Action Conference are worried about President Trump's foreign policy, seeing it as a break from his "America First" promise.
  • Mace has increased her opposition after receiving classified briefings about the Iran conflict.
  • President Trump has not ruled out sending ground troops but has emphasized a preference for air and naval operations.
  • Mace's position highlights concern about a repeat of past long-term Middle East conflicts.
Read the Original

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

How and when to see April's full Pink Moon

How and when to see April's full Pink Moon

Summary

This article explains that April's full Pink Moon will peak on April 2nd and is named after a flower that blooms in North America. The full Pink Moon plays a role in setting the dates for Easter and Passover.

Key Facts

  • The full Pink Moon peaks on April 2 at 03:12 BST.
  • It is called the Pink Moon because of a North American flower that blooms at this time.
  • The moon may look orange, not pink, due to atmospheric effects.
  • Full Moons have historical names related to seasonal changes, like the Sprouting Grass Moon.
  • The Pink Moon helps determine the date for Easter, which is the Sunday after the first full Moon following the spring equinox.
  • Easter in 2026 will be influenced by the Pink Moon, which follows shortly after the equinox.
  • Different calendars like the Gregorian and Julian have affected Easter's date in various regions.
  • The Jewish calendar also uses the full Moon to determine the start of Passover.
Read the Original

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

Harry Potter star Paapa Essiedu hopes his TV drama Babies will break pregnancy loss silence

Harry Potter star Paapa Essiedu hopes his TV drama Babies will break pregnancy loss silence

Summary

The TV drama "Babies" featuring actor Paapa Essiedu aims to bring attention to the topic of pregnancy loss. The show follows a couple navigating multiple miscarriages and the emotional challenges that arise. The creators and cast hope to reduce the stigma around pregnancy loss and encourage open conversation.

Key Facts

  • "Babies" is a TV drama starring actor Paapa Essiedu.
  • The show focuses on the experiences of a couple dealing with pregnancy loss.
  • Paapa Essiedu and his co-star Siobhán Cullen worked with specialists and midwives to realistically portray pregnancy loss.
  • The series creator is Stefan Golaszewski, who has experience with similar issues but the show is not autobiographical.
  • The show highlights the emotional impact of pregnancy loss on both partners in a relationship.
  • Essiedu and Cullen believe the show provides a space for people to share their experiences.
  • The creators aim to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about grief and pregnancy loss.
Read the Original

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

Child focus is biggest change to family courts in 30 years, senior judge says

Child focus is biggest change to family courts in 30 years, senior judge says

Summary

The UK's family courts are shifting to a child-focused system, aiming to better consider children's perspectives in cases involving parents. This new approach has been piloted since 2022 in 10 areas and will expand to all 43 court centers in England and Wales over the next three years. The initiative includes increased funding and personnel to support quicker and more effective resolution of family court cases.

Key Facts

  • The UK's family courts will adopt a child-focused approach to resolve disputes between parents.
  • The new system aims to prioritize children's voices and needs in legal proceedings.
  • It has been tested in 10 areas since 2022 and will be expanded nationwide in three years.
  • Thousands of parents in England and Wales will be affected by these changes.
  • Cuts to legal aid have caused many parents to represent themselves in court.
  • Reports from social workers will be presented to judges early in the process.
  • The government provided £17 million for the first year of the new system.
  • More funding and more social workers are needed to support the new system's expansion.
Read the Original

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

Oil prices rise as Iran war escalates with Houthi attacks

Oil prices rise as Iran war escalates with Houthi attacks

Summary

Oil prices rose to over $116 per barrel as the conflict escalated with attacks from Iran-backed Houthi militants on Israel. The situation in the Middle East intensified with U.S. troops deployed to the region and threats from Iran, while discussions of diplomacy continue.

Key Facts

  • Oil prices increased to above $116 per barrel due to escalated conflict involving Iran and Houthi militants.
  • Brent crude prices went up by 3.3%, and WTI prices rose by about 3%.
  • Over 3,500 U.S. troops, including 2,500 Marines, have been sent to the Middle East.
  • Iran's parliament speaker threatened U.S. troops and allies.
  • The Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile attack on Israel from Yemen.
  • Gasoline prices in the U.S. neared $4 a gallon due to rising oil prices.
  • Concerns were raised about potential disruptions in shipping lanes by Houthi attacks.
  • Increased U.S. oil production helped prevent even higher price spikes.
Read the Original

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

How will the Houthis’ involvement shape the war?

How will the Houthis’ involvement shape the war?

Summary

The Houthi group from Yemen launched missiles towards Israel, intensifying the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. This action raises concerns about potential attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes, which could impact global trade.

Key Facts

  • The Houthis are a group also known as Ansar Allah based in Yemen.
  • They launched missiles at Israel, an escalation in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
  • The conflict involves the US, Israel, and Iran.
  • There's a concern the Houthis might attack ships in the Red Sea.
  • Past attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea have disrupted trade routes.
  • Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has already impacted global trade.
  • Experts discussing the situation include Hisham Al-Omeisy, H A Hellyer, and Michael Mulroy.
Read the Original

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

European nations criticise Israel’s death penalty plans

European nations criticise Israel’s death penalty plans

Summary

European countries have expressed concern about Israel's plan to expand the death penalty, which could disproportionately affect Palestinians. The proposal has drawn criticism from several European foreign ministers and international rights organizations. If the bill passes in the Israeli parliament, it is likely to face legal challenges.

Key Facts

  • European nations are worried about Israel’s death penalty expansion plans.
  • Ministers from France, Germany, Italy, and the UK voiced their concerns in a joint statement.
  • The bill is set for a vote in the Israeli Knesset, Israel’s parliament.
  • Critics argue the bill could unfairly target Palestinians.
  • Amnesty International has criticized the bill as discriminatory.
  • United Nations experts say the bill might limit courts' ability to consider each case individually.
  • The Council of Europe asked Israel to drop the death penalty plans.
Read the Original

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

Iran accuses US of plotting ground attack, as Israel steps up bombardment

Iran accuses US of plotting ground attack, as Israel steps up bombardment

Summary

Iran has accused the United States of planning a ground invasion while deploying troops to the Middle East. At the same time, Iran is facing power outages amid continued attacks from Israel. The conflict, involving both the US and Israel against Iran, has led to significant casualties and damage.

Key Facts

  • Iran accuses the US of planning a ground attack, while the US is sending military personnel to the Middle East.
  • Power outages occurred in Tehran and nearby areas after attacks on energy facilities.
  • The US deployed about 3,500 military personnel to the region on the USS Tripoli.
  • Israel’s military conducted airstrikes on sites in Tehran's region, claiming to target weapon production.
  • War-related casualties in Iran include 2,076 people, with 216 children, since the conflict began.
  • The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) threatened retaliation after attacks on educational institutions.
  • Iran reported extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, including educational facilities and media offices.
Read the Original

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

North Korea conducts engine test for missile capable of reaching U.S. mainland

North Korea conducts engine test for missile capable of reaching U.S. mainland

Summary

North Korea conducted a test of an upgraded solid-fuel engine for missiles that could reach the U.S. mainland. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed the test, which aims to improve the country's military capabilities. The test is part of North Korea's ongoing weapons development program.

Key Facts

  • North Korean leader Kim Jong Un watched the test of a solid-fuel missile engine that could target the U.S. mainland.
  • Solid-fuel missiles are easier to transport and hide than liquid-fuel missiles.
  • The test is part of a five-year plan to improve North Korea's missile technology.
  • The engine's thrust increased to 2,500 kilonewtons, up from 1,970 kilonewtons in an earlier test.
  • Some experts question North Korea's claims due to a lack of disclosed details.
  • North Korea has tested various intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) with potential range to the U.S.
  • North Korea's missile tests are part of its effort to enhance its nuclear arsenal.
  • Kim Jong Un remains open to talks with President Donald Trump but opposes disarmament demands.
Read the Original

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

A Houthi missile attack on Israel raises concerns about Red Sea shipping routes being blocked

A Houthi missile attack on Israel raises concerns about Red Sea shipping routes being blocked

Summary

Houthi rebels in Yemen launched missiles at Israel, raising worries about potential disruptions to shipping routes in the Red Sea. The attack could lead to a broader conflict involving Iran-backed forces and affect global trade, especially with the current situation at the Strait of Hormuz impacting energy markets.

Key Facts

  • Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen fired missiles aimed at Israel.
  • The Israeli military intercepted one missile from Yemen.
  • The Houthis are allies of Iran and part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance."
  • Concerns are rising that Houthis could disrupt Red Sea shipping routes.
  • Disruptions in the Red Sea could impact the global economy and increase oil prices.
  • Saudi Arabia currently routes significant oil exports through Bab el-Mandeb.
  • The Red Sea is a critical route for European Union energy supplies.
  • Houthi missile attacks have previously targeted merchant vessels.
Read the Original

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

Remove VAT from energy bills for three years, Tories urge

Remove VAT from energy bills for three years, Tories urge

Summary

The Conservative Party, also known as the Tories, is urging the UK government to remove the Value Added Tax (VAT) on household energy bills for three years to help reduce costs. They suggest funding this by ending certain green energy schemes and increasing oil and gas production in the North Sea. This proposal comes amid concerns over rising energy prices due to the war in the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • The Tories want to remove the 5% VAT from energy bills for three years, potentially saving households £94 a year.
  • They propose funding this by ending some green energy programs and boosting North Sea oil and gas production.
  • The proposal aims to lower energy bills by £200 a year for an average household.
  • The current UK government has announced that some green levies will be paid by general taxes, reducing energy costs temporarily.
  • Energy prices are under scrutiny due to the Middle East war and the blocked Strait of Hormuz, which is affecting oil prices.
  • Labour, another political party, opposes new North Sea drilling licenses but acknowledges the ongoing role of oil and gas.
  • Several political parties, including Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats, have alternate plans to reduce energy costs.
  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to discuss the situation with key industry leaders to manage the impact on the UK.
Read the Original

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

Renoir, Cézanne and Matisse paintings stolen in Italian job

Renoir, Cézanne and Matisse paintings stolen in Italian job

Summary

Paintings by Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse, valued at millions of euros, were stolen from the Magnani Rocca Foundation museum in Italy. Four masked men carried out the theft in just three minutes, but the museum's alarm system prevented them from stealing more artworks.

Key Facts

  • Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse paintings worth millions were stolen near Parma, Italy.
  • Four masked robbers took the paintings from the Magnani Rocca Foundation on 22 March.
  • The theft took only three minutes, and the museum's alarm system stopped further thefts.
  • The estimated combined value of the stolen paintings is €9 million.
  • The criminals escaped by climbing over a fence.
  • Italian authorities, including the Carabinieri and the Cultural Heritage Protection Unit, are investigating.
  • The Magnani Rocca Foundation is based in the family home of Luigi Magnani, an art collector.
  • The museum was the latest target after a notable jewelry heist at the Louvre in Paris.
Read the Original

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

Educated and employed but still struggling: India's middle class under strain

Educated and employed but still struggling: India's middle class under strain

Summary

Many people in India's middle class are educated and have jobs, but they are finding it hard to make ends meet. Automation and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) are reducing job opportunities, leading to financial struggles for many families.

Key Facts

  • 100 operators in Navi Mumbai oversee bots that monitor 30,000 ATMs across India, replacing 60,000 security guard jobs.
  • Middle-class individuals are turning to risky financial activities like trading Futures and Options, leading to collective losses of over $12 billion a year.
  • White-collar job growth in India slowed from 11% before 2020 to 1% today, according to Naukri Jobspeak Index.
  • India's IT services sector, employing eight million people, is seeing job cuts due to AI, which could eliminate three million jobs by 2031.
  • Nearly half of Indian families have taken personal loans to cover essential expenses.
  • In recent years, graduates from top institutions like IIT Bombay are securing lower salaries, and many remain unemployed.
  • Eight million new graduates enter the Indian job market every year, but job opportunities are shrinking.
Read the Original

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

Israeli police bar priest from Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday

Israeli police bar priest from Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday

Summary

Israeli police restricted access to the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem during Holy Week, preventing the Latin Patriarch from entering. This is the first time such a restriction has happened in centuries. Christians in Jerusalem and Gaza observed Palm Sunday amid ongoing conflicts and shortages.

Key Facts

  • Israeli police blocked the Latin Patriarch from entering the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
  • This restriction occurred for the first time in centuries.
  • Christians in Jerusalem and Gaza celebrated Holy Week under wartime conditions.
  • In Gaza, the Christian community observed Palm Sunday despite ongoing attacks.
  • The community in Gaza faces severe shortages of essential supplies.
Read the Original

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

Stranded humpback whale in Germany's Baltic Sea weakens as hopes of its return to the Atlantic fade

Stranded humpback whale in Germany's Baltic Sea weakens as hopes of its return to the Atlantic fade

Summary

A humpback whale is stuck in Germany's Baltic Sea, and concerns are growing about its weakened condition. Efforts to help the whale get back to the Atlantic Ocean have so far not succeeded, and experts worry about its chances due to sickness and possible injuries.

Key Facts

  • The whale is stranded in Germany's Baltic Sea and looks weaker.
  • A restricted area was set up for the whale to rest in hopes it can escape on its own.
  • The whale may be sick and injured, possibly from contact with a fishing net.
  • Rescue attempts included using boats and an excavator to create waves to free the whale.
  • Experts note the whale is less active and has a lower respiratory rate.
  • The whale can't survive long-term in the Baltic Sea due to low salt levels and unsuitable food.
  • If the whale is to survive, it must return to the Atlantic Ocean.
  • The journey back to the Atlantic involves navigating a narrow 500-kilometer (310-mile) path.
Read the Original

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

Europe seeks to increase deportations, quietly adopting Trump administration tactics

Europe seeks to increase deportations, quietly adopting Trump administration tactics

Summary

The European Union is adopting stricter immigration policies similar to those used by President Donald Trump. The new measures focus on tracking, raiding, and deporting migrants, and they come into effect on June 12. Some EU countries are pursuing agreements to set up deportation centers in nations outside Europe.

Key Facts

  • The EU is expanding its authority to manage and deport migrants.
  • New policies will be effective from June 12.
  • Right-wing parties gaining power in Europe influenced these policy changes.
  • The EU aims to avoid a migration crisis similar to the one in 2015.
  • Italy's model under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni includes migrant detention centers.
  • Some EU countries are talking with nations like Kenya about deportation centers.
  • Human rights groups express concern over potential legal protection issues for migrants.
  • Sweden and other EU countries are considering deportation hubs outside Europe.
Read the Original

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

KitKat Addresses 12-Ton Heist Ahead of Easter: 'Supply Is Not Affected'

KitKat Addresses 12-Ton Heist Ahead of Easter: 'Supply Is Not Affected'

Summary

Thieves stole a truck carrying 12 tons of KitKat chocolate bars in Europe, intended for distribution in Poland. Despite the theft, Nestlé has stated that there won't be any KitKat shortages due to the incident.

Key Facts

  • A truck carrying 413,793 KitKat chocolate bars went missing.
  • The theft happened while the truck traveled from central Italy to Poland.
  • The stolen chocolate is traceable through unique batch codes on each bar.
  • The incident occurred just before Easter, a busy time for chocolate sales.
  • KitKat is working with police and supply chain partners to find the stolen truck.
  • Nestlé has assured consumers that this theft will not impact KitKat's supply in Europe.
Read the Original

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

Qatari TV station hit in Iran

Qatari TV station hit in Iran

Summary

A Qatari TV station, Al Araby, faced an attack on its office in Tehran, Iran, resulting in injuries to at least 10 people. The network condemned the incident, describing it as an unlawful act against journalists.

Key Facts

  • The attack happened at Al Araby's office in Tehran, Iran.
  • At least 10 people were injured in the incident.
  • Al Araby is a TV network based in Qatar.
  • Al Araby called the attack illegal and harmful to journalists.
  • The network strongly condemned the attack.
Read the Original

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

Lebanon’s Catholics observe Palm Sunday under looming threat of war

Lebanon’s Catholics observe Palm Sunday under looming threat of war

Summary

Christians in Lebanon celebrated Palm Sunday amidst ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Churches held services even as nearby areas faced danger from airstrikes and conflicts. Many Lebanese citizens are affected by the increased violence in the region.

Key Facts

  • Christians in Lebanon gathered for Palm Sunday services while aware of the threat from the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
  • A church in Beirut's southern suburbs was full despite nearby evacuations due to airstrikes.
  • In Tyre, Israeli bombings had damaged nearby bridges, affecting access to the city.
  • Lebanon has a history of sectarian tensions from the 1975-1990 civil war between Christians and Muslims.
  • The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 1,200 people killed since March 2.
  • Israeli forces have advanced into Lebanon as part of a ground invasion.
  • Hezbollah has reported carrying out multiple operations against Israeli troops.
Read the Original

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