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Wiltshire landmark being checked for any damage caused by St George's flag

Wiltshire landmark being checked for any damage caused by St George's flag

A white horse carved into a hillside in Westbury, England was temporarily covered with a St George's flag. English Heritage is checking if the landmark was damaged by the fabric and pegs used. The flag has been removed, and there is no investigation by police since no crime is thought to have occurred.

Key Facts:

  • The Westbury White Horse is a large landmark carved into a hillside.
  • Recently, red fabric was used to turn the landmark into a St George's flag.
  • English Heritage plans to check for any damage from pegs holding the fabric.
  • The flag has now been removed from the white horse.
  • The Westbury White Horse is considered the oldest in Wiltshire.
  • Similar incidents happened before, like in 2018 during the football World Cup.
  • St George's flags have increased around England recently due to football events.
  • Wiltshire Police stated that no crime was involved, so there is no investigation.

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‘Illusions stripped away’: What to know about the 80th UN General Assembly

‘Illusions stripped away’: What to know about the 80th UN General Assembly

The 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is starting in New York City. World leaders are gathering to discuss global issues, including peace, development, and human rights. The meeting occurs amid debates about the UN's role and financial challenges, and discussions involving Israel and Palestine are expected.

Key Facts:

  • The UNGA begins in New York, bringing together leaders from around the world.
  • The theme for this year is "Better Together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights."
  • The first week is mostly procedural, with a high-level event starting on September 22.
  • The General Debate with speeches from various leaders runs from September 23 to September 29.
  • The U.S. decided to withhold visas for Palestinian officials for this gathering.
  • France and Saudi Arabia plan to host a conference on Israel and Palestine.
  • The UNGA is the main body where all 193 UN member countries have a voice.
  • Its responsibilities include discussing global peace, security, human rights, and approving the UN's annual budget.

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Russian glide bomb attack in eastern Ukraine kills at least 24 people waiting to collect pensions

Russian glide bomb attack in eastern Ukraine kills at least 24 people waiting to collect pensions

A Russian bomb struck a village in eastern Ukraine as people were waiting to collect their pensions, killing at least 24 people. The attack occurred in Yarova, near the front line, during ongoing aerial strikes by Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged the international community to impose more sanctions on Russia.

Key Facts:

  • A Russian glide bomb hit the village of Yarova in eastern Ukraine.
  • The attack killed at least 24 people, most of whom were pensioners.
  • 19 people were injured in the blast.
  • The bombing occurred near the front line in the Donetsk region.
  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for more international sanctions on Russia.
  • The strike was part of an increase in Russian aerial attacks on Ukraine.
  • Over 12,000 Ukrainian civilians have died since the war began, according to the United Nations.
  • Many residents remain in their homes due to lack of means to relocate or responsibilities to care for elderly relatives.

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Japan’s ruling LDP to pick new leader after PM Ishiba resigns

Japan’s ruling LDP to pick new leader after PM Ishiba resigns

Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will choose a new leader to replace Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned after electoral losses. The new leader, to be selected on October 4, could become Japan's prime minister if they gain enough parliamentary support. Ishiba cited passing leadership to the next generation as a reason for his resignation.

Key Facts:

  • The LDP plans to select a new leader on October 4 after Ishiba's resignation.
  • Ishiba resigned following significant electoral defeats.
  • The LDP has governed Japan almost continuously since 1955.
  • Ishiba became LDP leader in October 2024, taking over from Fumio Kishida.
  • Several candidates are likely to run for the leadership, including previous contenders.
  • Ishiba attempted to solidify his tenure by calling a snap election shortly after becoming leader.
  • The party struggles with issues like rising rice prices, low birth rates, and immigration concerns.
  • The next LDP leader could become Japan's fourth prime minister in five years.

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Israeli military orders all Gaza City residents to evacuate ahead of ground assault

Israeli military orders all Gaza City residents to evacuate ahead of ground assault

The Israeli military has instructed all residents of Gaza City to evacuate the area as it prepares for a large ground assault aimed at defeating Hamas. The military's warning emphasizes the danger to civilians remaining in the city, while humanitarian organizations have expressed concerns over the potential humanitarian crisis.

Key Facts:

  • Israel's military has ordered Gaza City residents to leave ahead of a ground assault.
  • As many as one million Palestinians live in Gaza City, which is a major urban center.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated recent airstrikes were just the start of a larger operation against Hamas.
  • The United Nations has warned that the offensive could worsen an existing humanitarian crisis in the area.
  • Israel's security cabinet approved a plan to conquer Gaza after ceasefire talks with Hamas failed in July.
  • Israeli military actions have intensified, with air and ground attacks targeting buildings used by Hamas.
  • Photographs show people moving south from Gaza City by various means, but not in large numbers.
  • Local residents face challenges finding safe places to go and report lack of transportation options.

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The Battle for Donbas

The Battle for Donbas

Ukraine is trying to take back control of the Donbas region from Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin believes making Donbas a part of Russia is essential for peace. The conflict over this region is a major issue in the Ukraine war.

Key Facts:

  • Ukraine has been trying to regain Donbas for over ten years.
  • The Donbas region is located within Ukraine's borders.
  • Russian President Vladimir Putin wants Donbas to become part of Russia.
  • Putin claims this would help achieve peace.
  • The status of Donbas is a central issue in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

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Girl stabbed six times as she shielded sister from Southport attacker, inquiry hears

Girl stabbed six times as she shielded sister from Southport attacker, inquiry hears

A public inquiry in Southport is examining a stabbing attack at a dance workshop where a girl was severely injured while protecting her sister. Three children died, and several others, including two adults, were injured. The inquiry is focusing on the attacker's history and whether authorities missed chances to prevent the event.

Key Facts:

  • A girl shielding her sister was stabbed six times in a Southport attack.
  • The attack happened at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop on July 29, 2024.
  • Three children were killed, and several others, including two adults, were seriously injured.
  • The public inquiry is being held at Liverpool Town Hall.
  • The inquiry's first phase looks into the attacker's history and interactions with authorities.
  • Families of survivors shared their experiences of the attack and its aftermath.
  • The attacked girl's father found her gravely injured, leading to him fainting from shock.
  • Families hope the inquiry will find answers and highlight any system failures that allowed the attack.

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From Haile Selassie to crowdfunding, how Ethiopia’s GERD dam was born

From Haile Selassie to crowdfunding, how Ethiopia’s GERD dam was born

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a major infrastructure project on the Blue Nile River, designed to boost Ethiopia's energy access and development. It was announced in 2011 and funded largely through contributions from Ethiopians, including school children, highlighting a national effort to support the project. The dam's completion has historical roots and is a significant milestone for Ethiopia, despite regional tensions with Egypt and Sudan over water resources.

Key Facts:

  • The GERD is Ethiopia's largest hydroelectric project, completed nearly 14 years after it was announced.
  • The project was funded through contributions from Ethiopians, with everyone from students to civil servants participating.
  • Initial planning for a dam on the Nile dates back to the early 1900s with involvement from colonial powers like the UK and Italy.
  • Tensions exist with Egypt and Sudan, who worry that the dam might reduce their share of Nile water.
  • Ethiopia was not party to early treaties between the UK, Egypt, and Sudan which determined water use rights, leading Ethiopia to reject these agreements.
  • The project was announced by then-Prime Minister Meles Zenawi in 2011, with a cost estimate of $4.5 billion at the time.
  • The GERD provides Ethiopia with a vital resource for energy, intended to support the country's economic growth.

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ICC hears war crimes case against Ugandan rebel leader

ICC hears war crimes case against Ugandan rebel leader

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is holding a hearing to confirm war crimes charges against Joseph Kony, a Ugandan rebel leader who has evaded arrest for 20 years. Kony, leader of the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), faces 39 charges, including murder and using child soldiers, but is not present at the hearing. The case is significant as the ICC proceeds without Kony in custody, which could set a new precedent for handling fugitives.

Key Facts:

  • The ICC has opened a war crimes case against Joseph Kony, who is not present at the hearing.
  • Joseph Kony leads the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) and faces 39 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
  • Crimes include murder, sexual enslavement, and the use of child soldiers.
  • Kony's group became infamous for violent acts like cutting off limbs.
  • An arrest warrant for Kony was issued 20 years ago, but he remains a fugitive.
  • The hearing is the ICC's first attempt to confirm charges without the suspect in custody.
  • A trial can only start if Kony is arrested and present in court.
  • The case could affect how the ICC deals with other international fugitives.

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Israel says it has carried out an airstrike on Hamas headquarters in Doha

Israel's military reported it conducted an airstrike on Hamas's political headquarters located in Qatar. The Qatari government criticized the attack.

Key Facts:

  • Israel's military claims to have hit Hamas headquarters in Qatar with an airstrike.
  • The targeted location is associated with Hamas's political activities.
  • The government of Qatar condemned the airstrike.
  • The incident was reported on September 9, 2025.
  • The report comes from a news source called NPR.
  • Hamas is a Palestinian group that operates in various Middle Eastern countries.

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'The Office' creators deliver 'The Paper,' a sharp mockumentary about journalism

'The Paper' is a new comedy show created by the people behind 'The Office.' It humorously looks at the challenges journalists face today, like the pressure to get online clicks and interference from big companies.

Key Facts:

  • 'The Paper' is a mockumentary show, which means it uses a documentary style to tell a fictional story.
  • The creators of 'The Office' are behind this new show.
  • The show focuses on issues journalists deal with today.
  • Topics include online clickbait, which is content designed to attract a lot of internet traffic.
  • Another theme is corporate interference, where big companies affect how news is reported.
  • The show is mainly a comedy with engaging characters and actors.

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Inside Kyiv government building hit by missile strike

Inside Kyiv government building hit by missile strike

A missile strike hit Ukraine's main government building in Kyiv for the first time since Russia's full-scale invasion began. This attack caused significant damage, according to officials who were on the scene.

Key Facts:

  • Ukraine's main government building is located in Kyiv.
  • The building was hit by a missile strike.
  • This is the first attack on this building since Russia's full-scale invasion.
  • The incident occurred on a Sunday.
  • BBC correspondent Sarah Rainsford observed a large amount of damage at the site.

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Mum of soldier who took her own life after sexual assault says army failing women

Mum of soldier who took her own life after sexual assault says army failing women

The mother of a British soldier, Jaysley Beck, who took her own life after being sexually assaulted by a superior, claims the Army is not a safe place for women. A coroner found that harassment by Warrant Officer Michael Webber contributed to Beck's death. Webber pleaded guilty to assaulting her, and Beck's family is demanding better handling of complaints in the military.

Key Facts:

  • Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck, 19, died by suicide in December 2021.
  • A coroner ruled that harassment by her superior officer, Michael Webber, contributed to her death.
  • Webber pleaded guilty to assaulting Beck during a training exercise.
  • Beck's family says the Army should better handle complaints and ensure young women are safe.
  • Beck had complained about Webber twice before her death.
  • The family wants complaints in the military to be investigated by independent bodies.
  • Defence Minister Luke Pollard acknowledges the need for cultural change in the armed forces.
  • Beck joined the Army at age 16 and was from Cumbria.

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Ethiopia inaugurates GERD dam amid downstream tensions with Egypt, Sudan

Ethiopia inaugurates GERD dam amid downstream tensions with Egypt, Sudan

Ethiopia has opened its large hydroelectric dam, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), on the Blue Nile. This project has caused concern in Egypt and Sudan, who worry it might affect their water supply. While it promises electricity benefits, regional tensions over water use remain.

Key Facts:

  • The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is the largest hydroelectric dam in Africa.
  • It is located on the Blue Nile, near the Sudanese border.
  • The project cost $5 billion and aims to produce over 5,000 megawatts of power.
  • Ethiopia plans to export surplus electricity generated by the dam.
  • Egypt and Sudan are concerned the dam might impact their water supply.
  • The dam has been a point of tension since its launch in 2011.
  • Regional leaders from Kenya and Somalia attended the inauguration, but not those from Egypt and Sudan.
  • GERD may help regulate river flow and reduce flooding downstream.

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'No one is irreplaceable', says BBC chief after scandals

'No one is irreplaceable', says BBC chief after scandals

BBC director general Tim Davie addressed recent scandals and emphasized that no one is irreplaceable at the BBC. He mentioned the dismissal of MasterChef hosts following allegations and discussed improvements in handling workplace issues. Davie also talked about the BBC's broadcasting mistake during Glastonbury and the ongoing internal review.

Key Facts:

  • BBC director general Tim Davie spoke about addressing abuses of power within the organization.
  • Davie emphasized that individuals not upholding BBC values would face consequences.
  • Both MasterChef hosts were dismissed after allegations were upheld against them.
  • BBC conducted a review and changed how it manages workplace issues.
  • Davie stated the BBC does not have an overall toxic culture but acknowledged some areas of concern.
  • He could not guarantee future workplace issues would not occur but stressed societal progress in addressing them.
  • The BBC faced criticism for broadcasting Bob Vylan’s performance at Glastonbury, which included controversial chants.
  • The broadcast was pulled from iPlayer, and an internal investigation is ongoing regarding the decision to air the performance.

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At least 20 killed in Russian attack in eastern Ukraine, Zelenskyy says

At least 20 killed in Russian attack in eastern Ukraine, Zelenskyy says

At least 20 civilians were killed in a Russian airstrike on a village in eastern Ukraine, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The attack occurred in the village of Yarova in Donetsk Oblast during a pension payout, with Zelenskyy calling for international responses against Russia.

Key Facts:

  • Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reported an airstrike killed at least 20 civilians in eastern Ukraine.
  • The strike took place in the village of Yarova, Donetsk Oblast, during pension payments.
  • The Kremlin did not immediately comment on the event.
  • Russia and Ukraine both deny targeting civilians, but many civilians have died since the conflict started in 2022.
  • Zelenskyy calls for stronger international sanctions and actions against Russia.
  • Recently, Russia carried out the largest air attack since the war started, affecting multiple areas in Ukraine.
  • The attack included drones and missiles hitting various regions, including Kyiv.
  • The war in Ukraine has entered its fourth year, with ongoing escalations.

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More than 20 dead in Russian attack on Ukrainian village, Zelensky says

More than 20 dead in Russian attack on Ukrainian village, Zelensky says

Over 20 people died in a Russian air strike on a village in eastern Ukraine, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The attack occurred near the front line in the Donetsk region and involved civilians collecting pensions. This incident is one of the deadliest attacks on Ukrainian civilians in recent weeks during the ongoing conflict.

Key Facts:

  • More than 20 people were killed in a Russian air strike in Yarova, Ukraine.
  • The victims were civilians who were gathering their pensions.
  • The attack happened in the Donetsk region, close to the main conflict area.
  • Local leader Vadym Filkashkin reported that emergency services were on the scene.
  • The reported death toll makes it one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent weeks.
  • President Zelensky shared footage of the attack and called for international response.
  • The attack is part of ongoing Russian military actions in the eastern region of Ukraine.
  • No immediate response came from Russia's military about the incident.

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Who could replace Angela Rayner as Labour deputy leader?

Who could replace Angela Rayner as Labour deputy leader?

Angela Rayner stepped down as the UK's deputy Labour leader and other government positions after a tax-related issue. Several candidates, including Bridget Phillipson, Bell Ribeiro-Addy, Lucy Powell, and Emily Thornberry, are in the running to replace her. The new deputy leader will be announced on October 25, following a voting process involving Labour party members.

Key Facts:

  • Angela Rayner resigned from her roles due to not paying enough tax on a property purchase.
  • Candidates must secure the support of at least 80 Labour MPs by Thursday to qualify.
  • The winner will also need backing from either 5% of local parties or three Labour-affiliated groups.
  • Bridget Phillipson is the only current cabinet minister running and emphasizes unity within the party.
  • Bell Ribeiro-Addy, aligned with the Socialist Campaign Group, calls for policy criticism freedom.
  • Lucy Powell, recently removed from her House of Commons leadership role, may run.
  • Emily Thornberry confirmed her candidacy, focusing on learning from past party mistakes.
  • The deputy leader must be a woman, as specified by former leader Harriet Harman.

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Israel says it targets Hamas leadership in Qatar’s capital as blast heard in Doha

Israel says it targets Hamas leadership in Qatar’s capital as blast heard in Doha

Israel carried out an attack targeting Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar. The move is part of its ongoing efforts against Hamas amid stalled peace talks regarding the conflict in Gaza.

Key Facts:

  • Israel targeted Hamas leadership in Doha, Qatar with a strike.
  • The attack is part of Israel’s campaign against Hamas due to ongoing conflict in Gaza.
  • Black smoke was seen over Doha after the strike.
  • Qatar confirmed the strike but did not immediately report any injuries.
  • Israel's air force was mentioned as carrying out the strike.
  • Despite the attack, Qatar Airways flights continued to land in Doha.
  • A Qatari air force plane was seen taking off on patrol during the incident.
  • Qatar criticized the attack as a violation of international laws.

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Israel says it carried out a strike on Hamas' main political office in Qatar

Israel says it carried out a strike on Hamas' main political office in Qatar

On September 9, 2025, Israel conducted an airstrike on the main political office of Hamas in Doha, Qatar. The Israeli military stated the strike targeted senior Hamas leaders, while the Qatari government condemned the attack.

Key Facts:

  • Israel's military carried out an airstrike in Doha, Qatar.
  • The target was the political headquarters of Hamas.
  • Television footage showed smoke rising from the area in Doha.
  • The attack was a joint operation by the Israeli military and its internal security agency, Shin Bet.
  • Israel claims the strike targeted Hamas leaders responsible for past attacks on Israel.
  • Qatar condemned the strike, calling it a violation of international laws.
  • No immediate casualties were reported from the airstrike.
  • Qatar expressed concern over the threat to safety in the region following the attack.

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