Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

World News

Comprehensive coverage of international news and global events

What’s Really Driving the Strategy Behind Trump’s War on Iran | Opinion

What’s Really Driving the Strategy Behind Trump’s War on Iran | Opinion

Summary

The article discusses the U.S. strategy in its ongoing conflict with Iran. It highlights the role of misinformation by Iran, concerns over regional energy impacts, and the broader international implications involving countries like Russia and China.

Key Facts

  • The conflict between the U.S. and Iran has been ongoing for three weeks.
  • The U.S. administration expected a quick victory, but Iran remains resistant.
  • Misinformation is playing a major role in the conflict, with Iran spreading false claims.
  • The U.S. has not been actively countering Iran's disinformation.
  • Iran threatens to disrupt oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy route.
  • Oil prices are currently stable due to alternative supply routes and additional producer capacity.
  • The conflict is international, with impacts on Russia, China, and other neighboring countries.
Read the Original

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

House of Lords backs bid to decriminalise abortion

House of Lords backs bid to decriminalise abortion

Summary

The House of Lords in the UK supported a plan to decriminalize abortion, which was initially approved by MPs the previous year. The proposal aims to stop police investigations into abortions under a law from 1861. Despite opposition from some peers and religious leaders, the majority voted in favor of decriminalization.

Key Facts

  • The House of Lords voted to support plans to decriminalize abortions, following approval by MPs.
  • The decriminalization aims to stop the use of an old law from 1861 to prosecute women.
  • Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi introduced the amendment to a crime bill last year.
  • More than 100 prosecutions have occurred under the old law in recent years.
  • The Archbishop of Canterbury and some peers opposed the change, citing risks to existing safeguards.
  • An amendment to require in-person consultations before prescribing abortion medication was rejected.
  • Current rules allow women to have abortions at home after a phone or video consultation if less than 10 weeks pregnant.
  • The policy allowing home abortions became permanent in 2022.
Read the Original

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

DR Congo and Rwanda agree to ease tensions after talks in US

DR Congo and Rwanda agree to ease tensions after talks in US

Summary

DR Congo and Rwanda have agreed to take steps to reduce tension after discussions in the U.S. Despite signing a peace deal with President Trump last year, conflict in eastern DR Congo continues. The U.S. recently sanctioned Rwanda for supporting a rebel group, which has contributed to ongoing conflict.

Key Facts

  • DR Congo and Rwanda held talks with the U.S. to reduce conflict.
  • They plan to respect each other's borders and make progress in easing tensions.
  • Rwanda agreed to remove its forces from certain areas in DR Congo.
  • DR Congo will act against the FDLR, an armed group active in its eastern region.
  • The U.S. sanctioned Rwanda for allegedly supporting the M23 rebels.
  • The M23 group still controls significant areas in eastern DR Congo.
  • Fighting in the region persists despite a 2022 peace deal.
  • Rwanda denies supporting the M23 and criticizes the sanctions as biased.
Read the Original

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

Mum 'so proud' of deafblind son's Eastenders debut

Mum 'so proud' of deafblind son's Eastenders debut

Summary

A five-year-old deafblind boy named Harvey Hind made his acting debut on the British TV show EastEnders. His mother, Kimberly, is proud and hopes it will encourage other disabled children to pursue their dreams. Harvey uses a cane and sign language and wears cochlear implants for hearing.

Key Facts

  • Harvey Hind is five years old and both deaf and blind.
  • He debuted on the TV show EastEnders, playing a blind pre-school boy named Arlo.
  • His mother, Kimberly, hopes his acting will inspire other disabled children.
  • Harvey was diagnosed as blind at three months old.
  • He uses a red-and-white striped cane and British Sign Language to communicate.
  • Harvey also uses cochlear implants to help him hear sounds.
  • The charity Sense provided specialized support to the family, aiding Harvey's development.
Read the Original

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

Trump denies knowledge of Israeli gas field attack

Trump denies knowledge of Israeli gas field attack

Summary

President Donald Trump stated that the United States did not know about Israel's strike on the South Pars gas field. He also warned Iran not to target Qatar.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump stated the U.S. did not know about Israel's attack on the South Pars gas field.
  • The South Pars gas field is a major natural gas field.
  • President Trump issued a warning to Iran during the statement.
  • Iran was specifically warned not to target Qatar.
  • The statement relates to international tensions involving Israel, Iran, and Qatar.
Read the Original

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

Jimmy Gracey Update: Frat Brother And Family Speak Out

Jimmy Gracey Update: Frat Brother And Family Speak Out

Summary

James "Jimmy" Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, is missing in Barcelona, Spain. He was last seen at a nightclub early Monday morning. His family and friends are actively searching for him.

Key Facts

  • Jimmy Gracey is a 20-year-old student from Illinois attending the University of Alabama.
  • He went missing in Barcelona, Spain after visiting a nightclub.
  • Gracey was last seen around 3:00 a.m. on Monday morning.
  • He did not return to his Airbnb accommodation.
  • Friends and family, including his fraternity brother, are in Barcelona handing out flyers and searching for him.
  • The local police in Catalonia are investigating his disappearance.
  • Gracey was reported missing around 1:00 a.m. on Tuesday by the police.
  • His family describes him as responsible and caring, saying it’s unusual for him not to check in.
Read the Original

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

Shelter Staff Suspicious so They Drug Test Dog, Discover He’s on Cocaine

Shelter Staff Suspicious so They Drug Test Dog, Discover He’s on Cocaine

Summary

Shelter staff in Virginia found a stray dog showing signs of illness and tested him for drugs, revealing he was on cocaine. The dog, now safe and named "I’m Happy to Be Here," is recovering and will be available for adoption soon. Drug exposure among pets, including dogs, is not uncommon in the U.S., with increasing cases reported in recent years.

Key Facts

  • Shelter staff in Richmond, Virginia, tested a stray dog for drugs after noticing he was wobbling and vomiting.
  • The dog tested positive for cocaine, a surprising result for the shelter workers.
  • The shelter named the dog "I’m Happy to Be Here" and reported he is doing well now.
  • The dog was bathed and monitored to ensure his recovery from the drug exposure.
  • Drug exposure among dogs is not uncommon; a study found 433 dogs exposed to cocaine or meth from 2019 to 2023.
  • Recreational drugs accounted for 2.1% of all pet exposure cases reported to a poison control center in 2024.
  • The shelter aims to find a home for the dog after his stray hold period ends.
Read the Original

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

US weighs sending thousands of troops to region as Iran war rages: Report

US weighs sending thousands of troops to region as Iran war rages: Report

Summary

The U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, is thinking about sending thousands of troops to the Middle East as part of its ongoing military actions against Iran. The plan may involve securing key maritime routes and strategic locations related to Iran's oil exports. These operations are part of an effort to reach specific military goals concerning Iran’s military capabilities and potential nuclear developments.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. is considering sending more troops to the Middle East due to its conflict with Iran.
  • This military operation is well into its third week against Iran.
  • The U.S. plans may include securing the Strait of Hormuz to protect oil tanker routes.
  • There's a discussion about deploying troops to Iran's Kharg island, a major oil export hub.
  • U.S. military actions have targeted Iran’s navy and missile capabilities.
  • Over 7,800 U.S. strikes have been carried out since late February.
  • President Trump has expressed interest in keeping all military options open.
Read the Original

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

Iran War Live: Vessel Struck As Trump Threatens To 'Blow Up' Major Gas Field

Iran War Live: Vessel Struck As Trump Threatens To 'Blow Up' Major Gas Field

Summary

President Donald Trump has threatened to attack Iran's South Pars gas field if Iran continues targeting Qatar's liquefied natural gas sites. Meanwhile, attacks are occurring across the Gulf region, with reports of hits on various energy facilities.

Key Facts

  • President Trump warned Iran over attacks on Qatar's LNG sites and threatened to retaliate.
  • There was an attack on a vessel near the Qatari coast with no injuries reported.
  • Attacks have spread across the Gulf region, impacting countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and Kuwait.
  • Saudi Arabia intercepted 17 drones and 2 missiles, considering potential military action.
  • Iran executed three individuals related to protests against the government.
  • Cathay Pacific canceled flights to Dubai and Riyadh due to the conflict.
  • Iran targeted additional Qatari LNG sites, causing fires and damage.
  • Iran's South Pars gas field, which is crucial for its gas supply, was attacked, reportedly by Israel.
Read the Original

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

Cubans Are Betting on Trump for Freedom. Venezuela Shows What They May Get

Cubans Are Betting on Trump for Freedom. Venezuela Shows What They May Get

Summary

Many Cubans in Miami support President Donald Trump, as they hope his policies will lead to changes in Cuba. The Trump administration has increased pressure on Cuba by tightening an oil blockade and engaging in negotiations for regime change. Some worry Cuba might follow the same path as Venezuela, where initial optimism for democratic change led to differing outcomes.

Key Facts

  • Ulises Perez is a Cuban Uber driver in Miami who listens to Cuban influencers and supports President Trump.
  • President Trump has dismantled a Biden-era immigration program for Cubans.
  • The Trump administration has imposed a strict oil blockade on Cuba.
  • Blackouts in Cuba now last up to 15 hours due to energy shortages.
  • The U.S. seeks to push Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel from power.
  • Some experts compare Cuba's situation to Venezuela, where U.S. policy led to unexpected outcomes.
  • U.S. special forces captured Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro earlier this year.
  • The Trump administration's talks with Cuba include figures linked to the Castro family.
Read the Original

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

War enters new phase as Israel attack on Iran gasfield sparks Gulf response

War enters new phase as Israel attack on Iran gasfield sparks Gulf response

Summary

The conflict intensified as Iran attacked energy facilities in several Gulf countries. This was in response to an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield. Tensions in the region are rising, with potential impacts on global energy supply.

Key Facts

  • Iran attacked a gas facility in Qatar and energy sites in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
  • The attacks were in retaliation for an Israeli strike on Iran's South Pars gasfield.
  • President Trump warned Iran against further attacks on Qatar, threatening a strong response.
  • The United States and Israel have been in conflict with Iran since February 28.
  • Qatar removed Iranian diplomats following the attacks on its facility.
  • Saudi Arabia intercepted missiles and drones aimed at its capital and energy sites.
  • There is concern about global energy supply due to these attacks.
  • Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, hinted at possible military actions against Iran.
Read the Original

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

Better NHS care might have saved 58 babies, BBC finds

Better NHS care might have saved 58 babies, BBC finds

Summary

A BBC investigation revealed that better care might have saved 58 babies at an NHS maternity unit in Oxford. The deaths occurred between 2019 and 2024 at Oxford University Hospitals Trust. Families blame missed opportunities and a defensive culture among some staff.

Key Facts

  • 58 baby deaths could have been prevented with improved care at Oxford University Hospitals Trust.
  • The deaths included 32 stillbirths and 26 neonatal deaths (within 28 days of birth).
  • Families cited missed chances and a defensive attitude in the hospital for the issues.
  • Every baby death was reviewed to understand the causes and needed improvements.
  • Eleanor Taylor-Verlaan's daughter died after being born with brain damage; she believes better care might have saved her.
  • The hospital faced criticism for focusing on internal reviews that families feel are inadequate.
  • The trust paid over £72 million in compensation related to obstetrics between 2020 and 2025.
  • Independent investigations identified key safety concerns, such as foetal monitoring and risk assessments.
Read the Original

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

Trump says US 'knew nothing' about Israel's attack on major Iran gas field

Trump says US 'knew nothing' about Israel's attack on major Iran gas field

Summary

President Donald Trump stated that the United States did not know about Israel's attack on an Iranian gas field. Following the attack, Iran struck a Qatari gas facility, causing significant damage. Trump warned that if Iran attacks Qatar again, the U.S. might retaliate against Iran's gas field with great force.

Key Facts

  • President Trump claimed the U.S. was unaware of Israel's strike on Iran's South Pars gas field.
  • Israel has not officially confirmed attacking the gas field.
  • Iran retaliated by hitting a major gas site in Qatar, causing extensive damage.
  • Oil prices rose significantly after the initial attack on South Pars.
  • Trump warned of a strong response if Iran attacks Qatar again.
  • Qatar stated that Iran's attack on its facility was a threat to its national security.
  • Verified images showed smoke from the impact of the strikes.
  • Two Iranian diplomats were involved, but additional details were not provided.
Read the Original

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

‘Unpleasant surprises’: Will key French cities elect far-right mayors?

‘Unpleasant surprises’: Will key French cities elect far-right mayors?

Summary

France is holding local elections to choose new mayors and city council members. The far-right National Rally party gained control of more municipalities despite performing worse than expected. Voter turnout is low, which may help the National Rally in the elections.

Key Facts

  • France is conducting local elections to elect mayors and city council members.
  • These elections are happening a year before the presidential vote.
  • The far-right party, the National Rally, gained control in 24 municipalities this year, up from 17 in the last mayoral race.
  • Nice and Toulon are large cities that may elect far-right mayors.
  • Voter turnout was 57%, the second-lowest in the history of France's Fifth Republic.
  • Low voter turnout is especially notable in working-class areas of Marseille.
  • The traditional right in France is losing strength, benefiting the far-right National Rally.
  • Low voter interest and new voting rules contributed to the overall low turnout.
Read the Original

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

Baking in rubble: Gaza woman keeps Eid traditions alive despite shortages

Baking in rubble: Gaza woman keeps Eid traditions alive despite shortages

Summary

Samira Touman, a 60-year-old woman in Gaza, is making traditional cookies for Eid despite difficulties caused by war and shortages. The conflict has made ingredients expensive and cooking conditions challenging, but she continues to bake with her family to keep the festival traditions alive.

Key Facts

  • Samira Touman lives in northern Gaza and is preparing for Eid, an important Muslim festival.
  • She faces challenges due to the high cost of ingredients like flour and sugar, which rose after border closures.
  • The family uses wood fire for baking because there is a shortage of cooking gas.
  • They bake cookies not only for themselves but also fulfill extra orders from neighbors.
  • The region has been affected by conflict, including military actions by Israel.
  • Samira used to run a home-based baking business but lost her resources during the conflict.
  • Despite the difficulties, Samira continues baking to maintain festival traditions.
Read the Original

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

Trump attempts to distance US from Israeli strikes on key Iranian gasfield

Trump attempts to distance US from Israeli strikes on key Iranian gasfield

Summary

President Donald Trump is working to separate the United States from Israel's attack on Iran's South Pars gasfield. He stated that the U.S. was not involved in the strike and warned Iran not to retaliate against Qatar, promising severe consequences if they did. Reports indicate Trump may have known about and supported the attack as a message to Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Trump said that the U.S. was not involved in Israel's attack on the South Pars gasfield in Iran.
  • The attack prompted Iran to threaten energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
  • Qatar's gas facility at Ras Laffan was damaged by an Iranian missile.
  • The UAE paused operations at two energy sites due to missile strikes.
  • Trump warned Iran against attacking Qatar and promised strong retaliation on South Pars if they did.
  • Reports from The Wall Street Journal claimed Trump approved Israel's plan to attack South Pars to send a message to Iran.
  • The attack on the South Pars gasfield marks a significant shift in targeting energy facilities directly in the conflict.
Read the Original

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

Israeli air raids devastate southern Lebanon, dozens killed in two days

Israeli air raids devastate southern Lebanon, dozens killed in two days

Summary

Israeli air raids have targeted multiple areas across southern Lebanon, leading to the deaths of at least 45 people and injuring over 100, including children. The conflict, part of a broader confrontation involving the United States and Israel against Iran, has displaced over a million people in Lebanon. The violence has prompted international concerns, with France and the European Union urging a halt to the attacks.

Key Facts

  • Israeli air raids hit a house in Burj Shemali, southern Lebanon.
  • At least 45 people have been killed, and over 100 injured in the last two days.
  • The conflict involves the United States and Israel against Iran and has spread across Lebanon.
  • Hezbollah claims destruction of six Israeli Merkava tanks.
  • Over a million people have been displaced in Lebanon; one-third are children.
  • The World Health Organization reports over 100 children killed since early March.
  • France's Foreign Minister plans to visit Lebanon to show support.
  • The European Union called for Israel to stop its operations in Lebanon.
Read the Original

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

Iran war: What is happening on day 20 of US-Israel attacks?

Iran war: What is happening on day 20 of US-Israel attacks?

Summary

A conflict between Israel and Iran has intensified, with both nations attacking each other's energy sites, including Iran's South Pars gasfield. Iran retaliated by launching missiles at energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The United States, led by President Trump, warned Iran against further attacks on Qatar.

Key Facts

  • Israel attacked Iran’s South Pars gasfield on day 20 of the conflict.
  • Iran retaliated by striking energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
  • Qatar expelled several Iranian diplomats following the attacks.
  • Saudi Arabia warned Iran of potential military response if attacks continue.
  • The US, led by President Trump, stated it had no prior knowledge of Israel's initial strike.
  • US President Trump threatened action if Iran attacks Qatar's energy facilities again.
  • Kuwait reported preventing a "terror cell" potentially linked to Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Read the Original

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

Warm settled weather set to continue into the weekend

Warm settled weather set to continue into the weekend

Summary

Warmer than usual weather is expected across the United Kingdom for the coming days. Temperatures will peak in Scotland and Northern Ireland on Friday, which is also the spring equinox, but cooler, unsettled weather is expected next week. The weekend will stay mostly dry and sunny with above-average temperatures.

Key Facts

  • The UK will experience warmer than average weather for the next few days.
  • Temperatures in the mid to high teens are expected, with peaks in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
  • Friday is the spring equinox, the day when daytime and nighttime are roughly equal.
  • High pressure keeps the weather mostly dry and sunny until the end of the week.
  • Cooler air will come in early next week, bringing below-average temperatures.
  • Colder winds from the northwest are expected next week, especially in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
  • Some showers may occur, and they might be wintry on higher ground.
  • Temperatures will range from 6°C in northern Scotland to 13°C in southeast England early next week.
Read the Original

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

Sheep shearing takes me all over the world, but UK visa changes will make Scotland a no-go area for some

Sheep shearing takes me all over the world, but UK visa changes will make Scotland a no-go area for some

Summary

The UK government plans to change visa rules for foreign sheep shearers. This means shearers from other countries will need visas to work in the UK, which may lead to a shortage of workers in Scotland's shearing season.

Key Facts

  • The UK Home Office ended visa-free access for foreign sheep shearers, effective after June 2023.
  • In Scotland, there are over six million sheep, and the shearing season lasts from May to August.
  • Scottish shearer Duncan Adams works in New Zealand and expects colleagues to join him in the UK, a plan that might change due to visa requirements.
  • Farmers and industry groups warn that fewer shearers could harm sheep if the shearing season runs too long.
  • The UK government wants the industry to train more local workers to reduce reliance on foreign labor.
  • Around 75 foreign shearers typically help in the UK each year.
  • The National Sheep Association is urging the government to reconsider the visa rule change.
Read the Original

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