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Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

Knitwear, jumpsuits and Cluedo: Traitors fashion explained

Knitwear, jumpsuits and Cluedo: Traitors fashion explained

Summary

The article explores how clothing choices influence perceptions among contestants on the reality TV show "The Traitors." Contestants use fashion to project personalities and strategies during the competition. The show has gained attention for its fashionable styles, becoming a key part of its appeal.

Key Facts

  • "The Traitors" is a reality TV show where contestants' clothing choices impact how others perceive them.
  • Clothing styles can convey character traits like trustworthiness or confidence.
  • Fashion has become an important attraction of the show, with contestants using it strategically.
  • Contestant Stephen wore flamboyant outfits to divert attention from his facial expressions.
  • Bright colors and playful textures in outfits can project innocence or openness.
  • Contestant Fiona dressed in soft clothing to appear nurturing and non-threatening.
  • Red clothing is associated with confidence and seriousness by the show's stylists.
  • High-profile celebrities like Harry Styles have worn similar fashion pieces showcased in the show.

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'We knew the truth': How parents uncovered Scottish hospital's infected water scandal

'We knew the truth': How parents uncovered Scottish hospital's infected water scandal

Summary

Parents of children treated for cancer at a hospital in Glasgow, Scotland, fought for years to prove that infections were linked to the hospital's water and ventilation systems. Recently, the health board admitted the hospital's environment likely caused some infections. This admission followed a long inquiry and was welcomed but also frustrated parents.

Key Facts

  • Parents believed infections were due to unsafe conditions at Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
  • The health board now agrees the water system likely caused some infections.
  • The hospital opened in 2015 but was not fully ready.
  • There was pressure to complete the hospital project quickly.
  • Maintenance in the hospital's early years was lacking.
  • Infection control doctors who spoke out were poorly treated.
  • The health board's admissions came after a six-year inquiry.
  • Parents feel the admissions are too late and remain upset.

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I joined the Tories for the partying, says Kemi Badenoch

I joined the Tories for the partying, says Kemi Badenoch

Summary

Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the UK's Conservative Party, joined the party initially for socializing and met her husband there. She became leader in 2024 after a major election loss. Since taking over, her party has struggled in polls and elections.

Key Facts

  • Kemi Badenoch is the leader of the Conservative Party in the UK since 2024.
  • She joined the Conservative Party primarily for social activities.
  • Badenoch became leader after a significant defeat in a general election.
  • Three high-profile Conservative members, including Robert Jenrick, recently left the party to join Reform UK.
  • Her party has been overtaken in the polls by Reform UK and faced losses in the 2025 local elections.
  • Badenoch insists she has a long-term plan to regain voter support.
  • Her musical preferences include songs from the musical Hamilton and Baz Luhrmann's spoken word piece "Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)."
  • Badenoch started her parliamentary career by winning the Saffron Walden seat in 2017.

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As the world inches back to a pre-WW2 order, the 'middle powers' face a grave new challenge

As the world inches back to a pre-WW2 order, the 'middle powers' face a grave new challenge

Summary

The article discusses the challenges faced by middle powers as the world seems to move towards an international order similar to the period before World War II. It highlights the role of the United States in shaping post-World War II Western Europe and contrasts different perspectives on American power. The piece also references a recent call for middle powers to collaborate, made by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at a global conference.

Key Facts

  • The article reflects on how the world might be returning to a pre-World War II style political order.
  • The United States played a significant role in post-World War II Europe, contributing to peace and prosperity.
  • The Marshall Plan was a U.S. initiative to help rebuild European economies after World War II.
  • A young Pakistani student compared the U.S. to Imperial Rome, noting that American power feels different abroad than it does domestically.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the need for middle powers to work together.
  • The article suggests that the benefits of the current international order have not been equally distributed globally.
  • The piece includes reflections from individuals who witnessed major historical shifts, such as the fall of communist regimes in Eastern Europe.

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Trump lavishes praise on UK troops amid anger over his Afghanistan claims

Trump lavishes praise on UK troops amid anger over his Afghanistan claims

Summary

President Donald Trump praised UK soldiers following remarks he made about European troops in Afghanistan, which caused tension with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump recognized the sacrifices of 457 UK soldiers killed in Afghanistan. Other European leaders also reacted strongly to Trump's comments.

Key Facts

  • President Trump praised UK soldiers for their bravery in Afghanistan.
  • Trump made comments suggesting European troops stayed away from the front lines in Afghanistan.
  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Trump’s statements, calling them "insulting."
  • Trump’s remarks led to reactions from other European leaders, including those from Italy, Poland, and France.
  • Trump's social media post mentioned the 457 UK soldiers who died in Afghanistan.
  • The conflict in Afghanistan involved troops from many NATO countries, each of whom experienced casualties.
  • Trump and Starmer discussed the issue after Trump's comments and Starmer highlighted the sacrifices of soldiers.
  • Around 2,400 US soldiers and many soldiers from NATO countries lost their lives in Afghanistan from 2001 onward.

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'British FBI' to take over terror and fraud probes in reforms to police

'British FBI' to take over terror and fraud probes in reforms to police

Summary

The United Kingdom plans to create a new national police force called the National Police Service (NPS), which will take over counter-terrorism, fraud, and gang investigations. This new force aims to improve policing by uniting existing agencies and using advanced technology like facial recognition to catch criminals. The NPS will operate mainly in England and Wales but can also work in other parts of the UK.

Key Facts

  • The National Police Service (NPS) will handle serious crime investigations, including terrorism and fraud.
  • Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the formation of the NPS as part of a police reform effort.
  • The NPS will combine the work of agencies like the National Crime Agency and regional crime units.
  • New technology, such as facial recognition, will be purchased for all police forces.
  • The NPS will operate across England, Wales, and potentially wider UK areas, setting standards and providing training.
  • Local police officers have felt overwhelmed with major crimes, affecting their ability to handle minor offences.
  • Some policing functions, like counter-terrorism, will transition into the new organization.
  • The government and campaigners have differing views on the use of facial recognition technology.

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Fancy buying a home that inspired a Turner painting? It's yours for £1.5m

Fancy buying a home that inspired a Turner painting? It's yours for £1.5m

Summary

A historical watermill in Wrexham, which inspired a painting by renowned artist J.M.W. Turner, is up for sale for £1.5 million. Brendan and Celia Wilson bought and renovated the 450-year-old Grade II-listed property 17 years ago and are now selling it to move closer to their children.

Key Facts

  • The watermill, known as Rossett Mill, dates back to 1588 and is a Grade II-listed building.
  • It inspired a painting by J.M.W. Turner, one of the UK's most famous artists.
  • Brendan and Celia Wilson purchased the mill for £660,000 when it was uninhabitable.
  • They spent two years and £250,000 on renovations, adding modern features while preserving its historical charm.
  • The couple imported old timber from France to maintain the building's original look.
  • Brendan used the internet and books to learn how to operate the mill, which they use about 10 times a year.
  • They are selling the property to move closer to their children.

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Iraq Shia alliance nominates former PM Nouri al-Maliki as its candidate

Iraq Shia alliance nominates former PM Nouri al-Maliki as its candidate

Summary

Nouri al-Maliki, a past prime minister of Iraq, has been nominated by Shia political groups in parliament to lead the country again. These groups chose al-Maliki for his experience and influence in Iraqi politics as negotiations to form a new government begin.

Key Facts

  • Nouri al-Maliki has been nominated as Iraq's potential next prime minister.
  • The nomination comes from the Shia Coordination Framework, a coalition in Iraq's parliament.
  • Al-Maliki was Iraq's prime minister from 2006 to 2014.
  • He continues to be a significant figure in Iraqi politics with close ties to Iran-backed groups.
  • Al-Maliki led the State of Law coalition in Iraq.
  • His leadership is considered crucial for forming a new government in Iraq.
  • During his previous term, al-Maliki managed to maintain relations with both Tehran and Washington.
  • There are ongoing efforts to handle armed groups with Iranian connections amid US pressure to dismantle them.

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American Free-Climbs Taiwan Skyscraper Without Ropes on Netflix

American Free-Climbs Taiwan Skyscraper Without Ropes on Netflix

Summary

Alex Honnold, a famous free climber, climbed Taipei 101 without using ropes. This climb was broadcasted globally on Netflix, showing Honnold's daring ascent of the skyscraper in Taiwan.

Key Facts

  • Alex Honnold is a well-known free climber.
  • He climbed Taipei 101 without ropes, making him the first to do so on this tall building.
  • The skyscraper, Taipei 101, is located in Taiwan and stands 1,667 feet high.
  • The event was shown live on Netflix to audiences worldwide.
  • Honnold is known for other significant climbs, like El Capitan, featured in the film "Free Solo."
  • The climbing event included experts and commentators, including a NASA engineer and a sports broadcaster.

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Ceasefire between Syrian army and Kurdish-led forces extended for 15 days

Ceasefire between Syrian army and Kurdish-led forces extended for 15 days

Summary

A ceasefire between Syria's military and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has been extended for 15 days. This extension supports a U.S. operation to transfer ISIL prisoners from areas formerly controlled by the SDF to Iraqi custody.

Key Facts

  • The ceasefire extension was announced by the Syrian Ministry of Defence.
  • It started at 11pm local time on Saturday.
  • The aim is to support a U.S. operation transferring ISIL prisoners.
  • The Kurdish-led SDF confirmed the extension, emphasizing its role in reducing conflict and helping civilian safety.
  • Disagreements remain between the Syrian government and the SDF on military and civil integration.
  • Deadly clashes erupted recently due to unresolved integration issues.
  • President Donald Trump's administration urges all parties to maintain the ceasefire.
  • The U.S. has begun transferring prisoners to facilities in Iraq, expecting up to 7,000 detainees to be moved.

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Netanyahu rejects White House request for Israel president at Board of Peace ceremony

Netanyahu rejects White House request for Israel president at Board of Peace ceremony

Summary

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu turned down a request from the White House to allow Israel's President Isaac Herzog to attend the launch of President Trump's Gaza Board of Peace in Davos. The White House wanted Herzog to participate to show broad support for the Gaza peace plan, but Netanyahu insisted that the invitation was meant for him, not Herzog.

Key Facts

  • Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected the White House's request for President Herzog to attend the peace ceremony.
  • The Board of Peace launch is part of President Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan.
  • The White House invited 58 countries, including Israel, to the event.
  • Herzog's participation was intended to show support from both Arab and Muslim leaders.
  • Netanyahu did not attend the Davos event due to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant.
  • Tense discussions took place between the White House and Netanyahu's office over Herzog's attendance.
  • The White House eventually decided not to escalate the issue with Netanyahu.
  • President Trump's advisers visited Israel to discuss the Rafah crossing issue instead of Herzog's involvement.

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Andy Burnham Wants to Stand, Will Labour Let Him?

Andy Burnham Wants to Stand, Will Labour Let Him?

Summary

Andy Burnham has announced his intention to run for a Member of Parliament position in the UK by-election for Gorton and Denton. He needs approval from the Labour Party's national executive committee, which includes some of Keir Starmer's allies, before he can become a candidate.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham wants to run for MP in Gorton and Denton.
  • The election is a by-election, which fills a position that became vacant between general elections.
  • Burnham’s candidacy requires approval from Labour’s national executive committee.
  • Keir Starmer, Labour Party leader, has allies on this committee.
  • The discussion was featured on a podcast episode with guests including Gemma Bolton from the committee.
  • The episode is part of a series available on BBC Sounds, a platform for audio content.

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Germany arrests suspected Hamas member over alleged attack plot

Germany arrests suspected Hamas member over alleged attack plot

Summary

German police arrested a Lebanese man, suspected to be a Hamas member, for allegedly planning attacks on Jewish and Israeli locations in Europe. The man, identified as "Mohammad S," was caught at Berlin's airport and is accused of helping to obtain ammunition for the planned attacks.

Key Facts

  • German authorities arrested a Lebanese national identified as "Mohammad S."
  • He is suspected of being involved with Hamas, a group considered a terrorist organization by many countries.
  • Mohammad S was arrested at Berlin's Brandenburg Airport after arriving from Beirut.
  • The suspect allegedly helped obtain 300 rounds of ammunition in August 2025.
  • He is accused of planning attacks on Jewish and Israeli institutions in Europe.
  • Mohammad S is linked to "Abed Al G," who was arrested last October with two others for similar charges.
  • Additional police searches were conducted in Leipzig and Oberhausen during those earlier arrests.

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‘The Odyssey’ is Matt Damon’s ‘Last Big Movie on Film,’ Says Actor

‘The Odyssey’ is Matt Damon’s ‘Last Big Movie on Film,’ Says Actor

Summary

Matt Damon talks about his new movie, "The Odyssey," which he calls his last major movie to be shot on film. Directed by Chris Nolan, "The Odyssey" is the first Hollywood film shot entirely with Imax cameras. The film will release in the U.S. on July 17, 2026.

Key Facts

  • Matt Damon refers to "The Odyssey" as his last big movie on film.
  • Chris Nolan directed the film, using Imax cameras for the entire shoot.
  • "The Odyssey" is the first Hollywood movie entirely shot with Imax.
  • The film portrays Odysseus's journey home after the Trojan War.
  • A new device called a 'blimp' was used to reduce camera noise during filming.
  • "The Odyssey" will release in U.S. theaters on July 17, 2026, in both Imax and regular formats.
  • Damon describes the filming experience as complex and impactful.

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US-brokered Russia-Ukraine talks close with no breakthrough

US-brokered Russia-Ukraine talks close with no breakthrough

Summary

Ukraine and Russia finished two days of talks organized by the United States in Abu Dhabi without reaching an agreement but are open to more discussions. Both countries discussed ways to end the ongoing war and address security concerns. Despite the peace talks, Russia continued attacking Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine and Russia engaged in US-brokered talks in Abu Dhabi for two days.
  • No agreement was reached, but both sides are willing to continue talks.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy mentioned discussions focused on ending the war and security conditions.
  • Key Ukrainian and Russian representatives attended the talks, along with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
  • Russia's demands include Ukraine withdrawing from the eastern Donbas region.
  • During the talks, Russia attacked Ukraine's energy infrastructure, affecting electricity for 1.2 million people.
  • Ukrainian officials reported casualties and injuries due to these attacks.
  • There's criticism that Russia's actions during talks hinder the peace process.

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Trump says UK soldiers in Afghanistan 'among greatest warriors of all time'

Trump says UK soldiers in Afghanistan 'among greatest warriors of all time'

Summary

President Donald Trump praised UK soldiers who served in Afghanistan, describing them as among the "greatest warriors of all time." His earlier comments on NATO troops avoiding front lines in Afghanistan drew criticism from veterans and politicians. The UK prime minister emphasized the sacrifices made by British troops alongside American forces during the conflict.

Key Facts

  • President Trump praised UK soldiers who served in Afghanistan.
  • His comments about NATO troops avoiding front lines led to criticism.
  • Trump initially downplayed NATO's role in the Afghanistan war.
  • Prince Harry emphasized NATO's collective security and the sacrifices made.
  • The US and its allies, including the UK, invaded Afghanistan in 2001.
  • More than 3,500 coalition soldiers died in Afghanistan by 2021.
  • The UK had the second-highest military deaths in the conflict after the US.
  • The UK prime minister and Trump discussed the bravery of soldiers from both countries.

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Syrian army announces ceasefire with Kurdish-led force extended for another 15 days

Syrian army announces ceasefire with Kurdish-led force extended for another 15 days

Summary

The Syrian army extended a ceasefire with Kurdish-led forces for another 15 days to help U.S. operations that are moving Islamic State prisoners from Syria to Iraq. The ceasefire aims to decrease fighting and stabilize the region despite recent clashes.

Key Facts

  • The Syrian army extended a truce with Kurdish-led forces for 15 more days.
  • The extension supports U.S. efforts to transfer Islamic State detainees to Iraq.
  • The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) confirmed their commitment to the truce.
  • Intense clashes have occurred between Syrian government forces and the SDF recently.
  • A new deal requires SDF fighters to join the Syrian army and police individually.
  • Syrian state TV reported the release of 126 boys from a prison in Raqqa.
  • U.S. military began the transfer of some Islamic State detainees to Iraq, with 150 already moved.
  • The region remains tense, with continued military buildup observed.

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Andy Burnham seeks permission to stand in by-election to become MP

Andy Burnham seeks permission to stand in by-election to become MP

Summary

Andy Burnham, currently the mayor of Greater Manchester, wants to run in a by-election for a parliamentary seat in Gorton and Denton. He says he aims to support the Labour government without undermining it. The seat became available after Andrew Gwynne resigned due to health issues.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham is the mayor of Greater Manchester.
  • He wants to participate in a by-election for a parliamentary seat.
  • The by-election is for the Gorton and Denton area.
  • The previous MP, Andrew Gwynne, resigned for health reasons.
  • Burnham states he wishes to support the Labour government.
  • The news is ongoing and further details are expected.

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Trump threatens 100 percent tariff on Canada over China deal

Trump threatens 100 percent tariff on Canada over China deal

Summary

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 100 percent tariff on Canadian goods if Canada finalizes a trade deal with China. The warning came after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney discussed new economic partnerships during a speech and announced a trade agreement with China. Tensions between the U.S. and Canada have increased due to these developments.

Key Facts

  • President Trump threatened a 100% tariff on Canadian goods if Canada makes a trade deal with China.
  • The threat was posted on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to reduce Canada's economic reliance on the U.S.
  • The Canada-China deal includes reduced tariffs on Canadian products and allows Chinese electric vehicles in Canada.
  • Tensions have risen between Canada and the U.S. following Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum.
  • President Trump revoked an invitation for Carney to join a U.S. advisory group, the "Board of Peace".
  • Trump has previously suggested that Canada should become the "51st state" of the U.S.

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Anatomy of a Family Feud, Explained by Experts

Anatomy of a Family Feud, Explained by Experts

Summary

Brooklyn Beckham publicly criticized his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, revealing tensions in their family. The conflict has been linked to his marriage to Nicola Peltz-Beckham and highlights issues that can arise during major family events like weddings. Experts explain that weddings often bring up unresolved issues and stress the importance of setting boundaries.

Key Facts

  • Brooklyn Beckham shared a public statement on Instagram criticizing his parents, David and Victoria Beckham.
  • He stated he does not wish to reconcile with them and accused them of controlling family narratives.
  • Experts explain that weddings can amplify family tensions due to the emotional and social expectations they carry.
  • Major life events, like weddings, often represent significant changes, which can be challenging for family dynamics.
  • Family therapists advise setting boundaries early in such situations to manage tensions.
  • Maintaining a united front as a couple can help manage parental resistance during conflicts.
  • Distance can sometimes be beneficial in dealing with continuous emotional pressure or manipulation.
  • Public figures may face intensified private conflicts due to the pressure to present a "perfect" family image.

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