Anthropic has raised $65 billion in a Series H financing led by Altimeter Capital, Greenoaks, Dragoneer and Sequoia, valuing the company near $965–$1,000 billion post‑money. The funding is being positioned to expand Claude's enterprise footprint, support new model development and hire staff as Anthropic prepares options for a future public listing.
The OECD has warned the Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz have weakened the global outlook, cutting growth forecasts and driving higher energy, fertilizer and transport costs. Humanitarian agencies are reporting severe supply-chain delays and soaring freight costs that are reducing aid deliveries and hitting poorer countries hardest.
The National Audit Office has disclosed that some royal leases are set at market value while others involve nominal rents, including a peppercorn arrangement for Royal Lodge. The report also shows that several royal residences are provided at reduced rates or for free, with Beatrice and Eugenie among those living in discounted or privately funded homes. The findings follow the former Duke of York’s eviction and ongoing investigations linked to Epstein ties.
Sir Alex Younger, who led MI6 from 2014 to 2020, has died at 62 after a cancer diagnosis. Colleagues and politicians have paid tribute, highlighting his openness and efforts to broaden recruitment beyond traditional norms.
The former Democratic Unionist Party leader, Jeffrey Donaldson, is standing trial in Newry Crown Court on 18 charges spanning 1985 to 2008, including a rape count. His wife, Eleanor Donaldson, faces separate charges. Both deny the allegations as the case proceeds.
Tesla has announced that robotaxi rides without a human operator are now available in the entire Austin Metro area, expanding beyond its prior city-limits footprint. The move follows Tesla’s earlier phase-out of in-vehicle monitors, indicating growing confidence in its autonomous driving tech. Waymo remains a comparator with a larger fleet in nearby markets.
Walmart is rolling out on-demand Subway delivery from Subway locations inside Walmart stores, targeting 1,400 locations by late July as part of its broader same-day delivery push. Separately, Amazon is expanding UK grocery delivery to include fresh produce in London, and to extend same-day and ultra-fast delivery to other cities.
British firms expect to ease price increases as energy-driven costs fade, while manufacturing activity shows a rebound. Bank of England watchfulness continues as inflation risks persist and rate decisions loom.
Robbie Keane is a leading contender to become Celtic's manager, prompting protests from pro-Palestinian supporters who highlight his decision to stay in Israel during the Gaza conflict. Graffiti and banners outside Celtic Park, plus statements from supporter groups, reflect a divide in the fan base as talks with Dermot Desmond continue.
A government-ordered review has found antisemitism in the NHS and recommends restricting NHS staff from wearing political badges, including pro-Palestinian symbols, and mandating antisemitism training across England’s NHS trusts. The report argues this is essential to maintain a universal NHS and protect staff and patients from discrimination.
The Independent reports on private nuptials in Kemble with remarks on the guest list around Prince Philip’s family; The Independent also notes the passing of Lady Pamela Hicks, a longtime royal confidante and bridesmaid, with reflections on her life. The New York Times confirms the death of India Hicks’s mother, Pamela, detailing her ties to Queen Elizabeth II and the Mountbatten lineage; Meghan Markle’s birthday post about Lilibet Diana is also highlighted by The Independent, clarifying royal titles and past family moments.
FIFA has revised stadium rules to allow spectators to bring one sealed, soft-plastic 20-ounce water bottle into all World Cup venues in the US and Canada, with some venues in Mexico still undecided. Hard bottles remain banned, and officials say cooling measures will be provided as needed.
Elite horses, top trainers and multi-million-pound investments mark a fresh Derby renewal, with Amo Racing, Aidan O’Brien’s team and a Devon-bred contender aiming for a race that remains a pinnacle of the sport despite fluctuating attendance. The Derby seeks to reaffirm its relevance as a path to champion status in breeding and racing.
A series of trials and court filings have laid out allegations that Iranian-backed groups have recruited individuals in Europe to target journalists connected to Iran International and other outlets. The trials describe plans to carry out violence for money, with suspects found in the UK possessing weapons and mounting surveillance operations.
National Energy System Operator has analysed demand, predicting England and Scotland could see 600 MW increases during group-stage matches. The surge is linked to TVs, devices and in-game halftimes, with Scotland’s late-night kickoff adding to household activity.
Devolved welfare policy shows regional differences in entitlements, with Scotland benefiting more from certain supports. England and Wales have lower access in some cases, while local council tax reductions vary by locality. Separately, SNAP benefits have shrunk as a new U.S. law raises work requirements and state cost responsibilities, impacting millions of beneficiaries.
England has moved close to a 1-0 series lead after Ollie Robinson's early bursts helped reduce New Zealand to 55-5 in 9.4 overs on day three, with rain interrupting play and a looming target of 254.
Paul McCartney’s new album The Boys of Dungeon Lane draws on his childhood and early years, framing nostalgia with fresh textures. Other legacy acts and contemporary acts are releasing work that reflects on fame, collaboration, and identity, as critics weigh revival against reinvention.
Dashlane has disclosed a coordinated brute-force campaign against its users, targeting 2FA protections to enable new-device registrations. Fewer than 20 vaults were downloaded before the operation was halted. Attackers abused the device-enrollment API, triggering automated account-lockouts. Dashlane has notified affected users; others are unaffected.
The British Heart Foundation has announced a plan to close around 150 high-street shops and cut jobs as rising costs and a shift to online shopping weigh on profitability. The charity says around 90 stores will close by next March, with the rest by March 2028, while central roles are also being cut.
Scotland has recorded its highest annual peatland restoration figure since the programme began, with 15,448 hectares restored in 2025-26. The target was scaled back after missing earlier goals, but ministers say restoration supports carbon storage, flood risk reduction, biodiversity and rural jobs.
Palantir has won a £39 million contract to run England and Wales’ firearms registry for up to 10 years, drawing fresh scrutiny from MPs over data privacy and US influence in UK public services. The deal adds to a string of contracts with NHS, MOD and police departments, prompting lawmakers to question data sovereignty and potential backdoor access under US law.
Aberdeen South by-election has become a focal point for energy policy and regional economic concerns as Conservative, Reform, and SNP candidates campaign around oil jobs, decarbonisation, and Holyrood Westminster power dynamics. Voters weigh support for drilling against environmental and economic questions.
Regulatory body prosecutes a water supplier after cryptosporidium contamination led to thousands on boil notices and hundreds of illnesses. Exeter Magistrates’ Court has fined the company and officials describe the incident as a major public health failure.
The first round at the Links Trophy in St Andrews has seen nine Scots contend among 144 players. George Cannon leads a strong home showing with a four-under 67 on the New Course, while teens Finlay Galloway and Dominic McGlinchey card three-under 68s. Remainings are within striking distance as the event heads to the Old Course.
The River Avon at Queen Elizabeth Gardens in Salisbury has been deemed unsafe for bathing after tests show sewage pollution from upstream works. The Environment Agency advised against swimming from May 28; the advisory remained until June 1 as residual contamination cleared. Wessex Water says the issue stems from a blocked sewer, with improvements planned, including near-real-time AI water monitors.
Fighting between Somali government forces and militias allied to opposition leaders has eased in Mogadishu after two days of clashes. The information ministry has said key districts have been cleared, opposition figures have been escorted to secure zones, and many civilians have returned, while the UN reports dozens killed, hundreds wounded and thousands displaced.
The latest round of talks in Washington aims to end the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, but Hezbollah has rejected the US-backed ceasefire, claiming it amounts to surrender. Israel continues operations in southern Lebanon, with displacement affecting more than a million people and regional tensions rising as Iran signals strong backing for Hezbollah.
Franco-Iranian artist Marjane Satrapi, renowned for Persepolis, has died aged 56. Tributes from leaders and cultural figures note her universal impact and advocacy for freedom. Her work spans graphic novels, film, and political engagement.
The UN World Food Programme has warned that the Middle East conflict and elevated oil prices have pushed millions more toward acute food insecurity: an extra 2.5m in Somalia, 2.3m in Afghanistan and 1.3m in Sri Lanka, and up to 45m globally if fuel stays at ~$100 a barrel through June.
Chirac has died at 93, Macron has confirmed, and she has left a political footprint as the former first lady who has held public office in France. Her life has spanned a long marriage to Jacques Chirac and a career marked by charity work and political influence.
U.S. designates Brazil's two largest criminal gangs as terrorist organizations, a move that has drawn Brazil's government into a debate over sovereignty and potential intervention. The designation follows political pressure ahead of October elections and has sparked pushback from Lula's administration, which warns of risks to information sharing and internal security cooperation.
Two Lebanese officers and a soldier have been killed when an Israeli strike hit a military vehicle on a road linking Nabatieh and Marjayoun in south Lebanon. Israel says the strike targeted a threat to its forces amid warnings that Hezbollah was preparing to fire on Israeli troops. The Lebanese army has largely stayed out of the fighting as the conflict escalates.
Beijing signals renewed alignment with Pyongyang as North Korea expands its nuclear program and strengthens ties with Russia, while Xi Jinping is engaging with Kim Jong Un during a high-stakes visit to Pyongyang.
France has opened a preliminary investigation into suspected torture and war crimes after French activists on the Global Sumud flotilla have alleged physical, sexual and psychological abuse during their May 18 detention by Israeli forces. The probe has been launched by the national counterterrorism prosecutor (PNAT) after a foreign ministry referral and will be handled by France's crimes-against-humanity unit.
Israeli strikes have hit multiple residential sites in Gaza City and elsewhere this week, with medics reporting at least nine people killed in pre-dawn raids on four apartments and seven killed in a separate tent encampment strike. Hospitals have reported dozens more wounded; Israel has said it is targeting "terrorists" or imminent threats while truce talks remain stalled.
NASA has since been coordinating with Roscosmos as air leaks in a Zvezda tunnel prompt a safety posture on the ISS. Four Crew-12 astronauts are preparing for a potential Dragon-based evacuation while Roscosmos conducts an extended repair operation to the tunnel, which has long suffered cracks and leaks.
The Knicks have advanced to the NBA Finals after a tense Game 1, with Jalen Brunson’s on-court confrontation with a heckler leading to a league investigation. The league has identified the culprit and removed him from courtside seating for the series, while Brunson has moved past the incident.
The New World screwworm has been detected in a 3-week-old calf in La Pryor, Texas, marking the first U.S. cattle case since eradication in the 1960s. Authorities have declared an infused zone, are dispersing sterile flies, and are expanding facilities to contain and eradicate the pest. Mexico reports rising animal cases and a first human case in 2025, prompting border controls and a broad, ongoing response.
The IAEA has sent a confidential report to member states saying its assessment of Iran's nuclear programme has not materially changed and that it remains unable to verify the current size, composition or location of enriched uranium stockpiles following U.S. and Israeli strikes. The agency is urging Tehran to restore safeguards access urgently ahead of the Board of Governors meeting.
A maritime drone has self-detonated off Constanța and an aerial drone has crashed into an apartment block in Galați, Romania, injuring civilians; Bucharest has evacuated coastal areas and asked NATO for faster anti‑drone support. Separately, the IAEA has brokered a localised ceasefire at Zaporizhzhia to allow power-line repairs after recent drone attacks threatened external electricity supply.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has accused Iran of using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in negotiations with the United States, describing it as unacceptable. He has pressed for peaceable disarmament of Hezbollah and has called for diplomacy over war, amid renewed US-mediated talks and a fragile ceasefire in the region.
Iran says the United States is denying visas for a large portion of its World Cup staff, while the US says visas for players have been granted. The dispute follows visa delays as Team Melli prepares for the tournament in North America, with both sides trading accusations and FIFA involvement.
The Cockroach Janta Party has translated viral online support into a physical protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi today, with founder Abhijeet Dipke arriving from the U.S. Organisers are demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhanresign over exam irregularities and are urging peaceful, book-and-flag demonstrations amid heavy police barricades.
North Korea has unveiled a new uranium enrichment facility and has said its weapons-grade nuclear material production has more than doubled over five years. Leader Kim Jong Un has visited the site, reviewed advanced production plans and has ordered an accelerated, "exponential" expansion of the country's nuclear forces.
Adam Hamawy has won the Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 12th district, while facing scrutiny over past ties to the Blind Sheikh. He is running on healthcare and anti-war policies and is supported by progressive allies and a pro‑Palestinian PAC. The race reflects broader gains by progressive candidates in blue districts ahead of November.
The United Nations has doubled its aid appeal for Lebanon to almost $640 million for six months, citing a severe and deteriorating humanitarian crisis amid Israel-Hezbollah hostilities. Displacements have surged, hospitals are strained, and millions face shortages as essential services deteriorate.
Iran’s World Cup squad has received U.S. visas overnight after earlier delays, allowing travel to the United States for the tournament. Tehran moved the team’s base to Tijuana due to visa issues. Iran is set to play New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, with Belgium and Egypt also on Group G’s schedule. The visa decision comes amid broader tensions between Tehran and Washington.
The United States has struck Iranian coastal radar sites after four Iranian drones were believed to target regional maritime traffic. Iran has retaliated with missiles aimed at Kuwait and Bahrain, with several intercepted by U.S. forces. The conflict expands alongside Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon as indirect talks for a ceasefire stall.
Israel's Supreme Court has ruled that the government must allow visits by the International Committee of the Red Cross to Palestinian prisoners, overturning a blanket ban imposed after the Hamas attack. The decision covers detainees in Israeli prisons and military detention and follows a joint petition by human-rights groups. The ICRC says it is ready to resume visits; rights groups hope enforcement will curb abuses.
West, now known as Ye, has seen multiple European venues cancel or bar performances amid a wave of antisemitism backlash. Italian, British and Dutch authorities have been weighing bans or entry restrictions, with Italy canceling two concerts and the Netherlands facing debates over entry and security for shows in Arnhem.
The US has announced fresh Treasury sanctions that have targeted Cuban president Miguel Díaz‑Canel, members of the Castro family and several Cuban institutions, while also maintaining an energy blockade that has deepened fuel shortages. Washington has additionally charged former president Raúl Castro over a 1996 downing of exile-operated planes, and US military and intelligence officials have held recent talks with Cuban counterparts.
FIFA has cancelled tickets allocated at no charge to about 60 fans after a website checkout error. The tickets remain reserved, and buyers are invited to complete payment at the correct price as investigations into ticketing practices continue in New York and New Jersey.
A leaked, expletive-filled call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has renewed questions about U.S.-Israel policy and the Netanyahu government’s stance on Lebanon and Iran. Officials say the call was among the most heated in years, with Trump criticizing Israeli moves in Lebanon and Netanyahu pushing for conditions tied to Hezbollah.
Anthropic has called for a coordinated global pause on frontier AI development to allow alignment research and societal structures to keep pace. The proposal emphasizes verification mechanisms and warns of recursive self-improvement risks, while OpenAI cautions that governments, not labs alone, should set rules. The idea has drawn mixed responses from industry figures and policymakers.
New Zealand defender Tim Payne has seen his social-media following explode after influencer Valen Scarsini highlighted him as the World Cup’s least-known player. Payne has embraced the momentum as New Zealand prepares for Group G play starting June 15, with Belgium, Iran and Egypt also in the group.
The Sudanese conflict continues as RSF-aligned forces in Darfur and Kordofan are blamed for civilian harm, with new drone and village attacks worsening humanitarian conditions amid calls for ceasefire and restraint.
The EU has reached a compromise to enact the Turnberry trade accord with the United States, which has pledged to cap many U.S. duties on European goods at 15% while the EU will remove tariffs on U.S. industrial and some farm products. European institutions are racing to complete legislation before a July 4 deadline and recent U.S. tariff moves are hardening opposition in the Parliament.
New Zealand lawmakers who visited Taiwan have been banned for a year from China, Hong Kong and Macau. The move prompts diplomatic friction as Wellington defends parliamentary travel to Taiwan as longstanding practice under its One China policy. Officials say the ban is a China-driven reaction to cross-strait diplomacy.
Unite Here Local 11 has voted to authorize a strike by about 2,000 SoFi Stadium workers if contract negotiations with Legends Global do not progress ahead of the June 12 World Cup match between the US and Paraguay. The union cites stalled talks, living-wage demands tied to LA costs of living, immigration-safety concerns, and protections against subcontracting and automation as core issues.
Switzerland forward Breel Embolo has faced travel delays as U.S. authorities review his ESTA travel authorization and a later visa issue related to a 2018 Basel incident. Swiss federation confirms ongoing discussions with authorities as Embolo works to join the team in San Diego ahead of World Cup Group B play.
A seven-month-old Palestinian baby, Sam Fahd Abu Haikal, has died after being struck by a bullet during Israeli military activity in Hebron's Tel Rumeida area. His parents were wounded; the incident comes as Israel’s forces say a vehicle was perceived to be accelerating toward them and that the shooting is under review. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Iran’s World Cup preparations have been disrupted by visa complications and political tensions. Some officials have not secured U.S. entry visas, while Mexico has issued some visas; Iran is basing in Turkey and later moving to Mexico for the tournament’s US-hosted group games.
The security operation for the 2026 World Cup is coordinating federal, state and local agencies across 16 host cities in three countries. Officials say funds are flowing to threat monitoring, drone defense and crowd control, while health risks and bottle restrictions are under review.
The ceasefire in the Iran-U.S. war has come under renewed strain as both sides have launched strikes and Tehran and Washington accuse each other of violations. U.S. forces have hit Iranian radar sites and drones on Qeshm Island, while Iran has targeted bases hosting U.S. forces in Kuwait and Bahrain. The conflict has disrupted regional shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and heightened global energy concerns.
Charles Leclerc has extended his Ferrari contract for the coming seasons, saying it has always been more than a team to him. The announcement comes ahead of his home Monaco Grand Prix, with Ferrari seeking a strong showing after recent results. Leclerc has driven for Ferrari since 2019 and sits third in the 2026 standings.
A new wave of xenophobic protests across South Africa has displaced hundreds of migrants, with Mozambicans and other foreigners sheltering in town halls and community centres. Several deaths have been reported in Mossel Bay, and governments are arranging documentation drives and voluntary repatriations as authorities pledge a crackdown on violence.
81-year-old actor James Handy has been stabbed to death in Tarzana. Police have arrested 44-year-old Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy’s girlfriend, on suspicion of murder after a 911 call and subsequent discovery of the victim outside a home.
Poland’s Maja Chwalinska has reached the French Open final after defeating Anna Kalinskaya in a tight semifinal; Mirra Andreeva is in the final after earlier semifinals, marking the first all-non-retired final pairing since 1992. Zverev will also contest the men’s final.
Laotian and international rescuers have called off an inside-cave search for two men who went missing after flash floods trapped seven people in a Xaisomboun cave on May 20. Five have been rescued; teams are continuing external pumping and digging to lower water levels and are leaving food at likely exit points. Heavy rain is worsening conditions.
Russia has warned and imposed temporary import bans on Armenian goods and threatened to suspend cheap oil, gas and rough diamond supplies as Yerevan is moving toward EU and US ties ahead of Armenia's 7 June 2026 parliamentary election. EU ministers are meeting to discuss how to approach possible talks with Russia while Kyiv asks for more European support.
Four men have been convicted of terrorism over the 2022 St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church attack in Owo, Ondo State. They face ultimate death by hanging on multiple counts, with a fifth defendant acquitted. The trial linked the suspects to an Al-Shabaab cell in central Nigeria.
The Kenyan High Court has extended conservatory orders suspending the planned US-linked Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base in Nanyuki, amid protests and a broader outbreak of Bundibugyo Ebola in neighboring countries. Officials say the centre would serve Americans exposed to the virus but asymptomatic; Kenyan authorities defend the project as part of broader emergency readiness.
A 35-year-old man has died after a shark bite while spearfishing near Michaelmas Island off Albany, Western Australia. A 4.5-metre shark was sighted in the area. Authorities urge caution and remind the public of beach closures as shark activity is monitored.
More than 500 villages in Namisindwa District face displacement and disaster as ground fissures widen after heavy rainfall. District officials are seeking urgent government relief, evacuation plans, and long-term mitigation as crops and homes are damaged.
The United States has announced that it is consolidating visa processing across Africa from nearly 50 embassies and consulates to 20 regional hubs. Kampala remains a full-service hub, while other posts are being shut or pared back. The changes are expected to begin in June and are driven by security, efficiency and staffing considerations, with applicants in affected countries needing to travel to designated hubs for interviews.
Tropical Storm/Jangmi has moved northeast, bringing heavy rain, floods, and power outages across central and eastern Japan. Officials have issued evacuation advisories, with authorities warning of life-threatening floods and streams. Airlines have canceled flights and rail services are disrupted as the storm moves toward the Tokyo region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has written a public letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin calling for face-to-face negotiations. He says the world should not wait for U.S. priorities to shift and proposes a neutral-host venue and a clear date for talks. Kyiv says it is regaining leverage with long-range strikes, while Russia intensifies its air campaign.
Local polls across 16 cities and provinces have delivered a mixed outcome: the ruling Democratic Party has expanded influence in key regions, while the opposition PPP lags in Seoul and Busan; ballot shortages disrupted voting at multiple stations prompting apologies and investigations.
A former CIA senior executive has been detained in Virginia after authorities found 300 gold bars worth over $40 million, $2 million in cash, and dozens of luxury watches during a May FBI raid. The case centers on allegations that he embezzled public funds and fabricated military and academic credentials to secure positions and special leave payments.
Canada has released a new AI strategy aimed at reducing reliance on foreign tech, building sovereign capabilities, and training Canadians in AI. The plan includes funding for research facilities, privacy legislation, a public AI supercomputer, and free AI learning resources. Ottawa emphasizes collaboration with like-minded democracies and international partners while seeking to attract talent and grow its AI industry.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is expanding its response to the Bundibugyo-strain Ebola outbreak. WHO and partners are coordinating containment efforts as Bunia opens a new treatment centre; authorities say cases are rising, with more than 1,000 suspected infections and over 200 deaths reported across Ituri, North and South Kivu and Uganda.
EU leaders are advancing talks with six Western Balkan states at a Montenegro summit to demonstrate real progress toward possible EU membership, with Montenegro and Albania leading the way while Ukraine and Moldova push for steps like associate membership. The talks come amid debate over how to handle enlargement and security implications in the region.
Lebanon has begun rehabilitation of its second airport at Qlayaat in Akkar, aiming to open in months to serve destinations including Istanbul, Dubai and Mersin. The project, led by Sky Lounge, is described as a move toward regional development amid ongoing tensions with Israel and amid recent clashes in the region.
Israeli forces have continued bombardment in Gaza despite a ceasefire in effect on paper, with attacks killing and injuring civilians across Khan Younis and Gaza City. Hamas officials have arrived in Cairo to discuss implementing the first phase of the ceasefire and a future police-led order, while warnings of further Israeli operations persist.
Meliá has informed owners it will cease operations at 15 of the 34 hotels it manages in Cuba, citing external pressures and energy shortages amid tightened U.S. sanctions. The move adds to a broader retreat by foreign operators and deepens the downturn in Cuba’s tourism sector.
The European Union has targeted Israeli settler groups and leaders with sanctions, while Ireland has barred Interior Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from entering the country over their conduct toward pro-Palestinian activists and plans affecting the West Bank. The moves arrive amid ongoing tensions over settlements and Gaza-related protests.
Protests linked to the CNTE teachers’ union have disrupted central Mexico City ahead of the World Cup opener, with marches blocking roads, clashes with police, and calls for pension and salary reforms. City authorities say the Fan Fest will remain open as security is tightened around Azteca Stadium and the Zócalo, where officials aim to showcase the tournament.
Rights groups have filed a complaint with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights on behalf of 14 migrants deported from the United States to Equatorial Guinea. The filing seeks to halt further deportations, ensure access to lawyers, and address detention conditions amid broader U.S. third-country deportation deals.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has issued a rare direct appeal for a face-to-face meeting with Vladimir Putin to end the war, while Putin has refused to meet until a peace deal is in place. Moscow maintains that talks require preconditions and continues its military offensive as Kyiv and allies press for direct engagement.
France is investigating a failure to act after the disappearance of Lyhanna, an 11-year-old girl, and the discovery of her body near Fleurance. A 41-year-old father is in custody as the key suspect, amid renewed concerns about prior sexual assault allegations and the handling of those cases.
Lebanon is pushing a sweeping amnesty law that would replace death sentences, reduce life terms, and release thousands of detainees, as overcrowding and regional tensions shape the debate. The measure faces opposition from families of slain soldiers and several lawmakers.
Arcadia’s former mayor, Eileen Wang, has pleaded guilty to acting as an illegal agent of the People’s Republic of China, admitting she boosted Beijing propaganda on a US-based site while failing to notify US authorities. Sun, her former fiancé, has been sentenced for the same charges. Sentencing for Wang is set for Oct. 6 with a potential 10-year term.
Drone strikes have killed and wounded civilians in Darfur and Kordofan, with fresh attacks on Kubum, Bara, and Ghubaysh. Rights groups warn of escalating violence and call for civilian protection; Sudan’s leadership is pressing for dialogue amid mounting international concern.
Senegal has been experiencing a public rupture between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his onetime ally Ousmane Sonko: Faye has dismissed Sonko as prime minister and dissolved the cabinet; Sonko has been reinstated by MPs as speaker and Pastef is refusing to join the new government while five party members have accepted ministerial posts, testing party unity as debt talks with the IMF continue.
Xavier Becerra has advanced from California’s jungle primary to the November runoff after a late, come-from-behind surge; officials are still counting ballots to determine whether he will face Democrat Tom Steyer or Republican Steve Hilton. The race has been unusually fluid, with early Republican leads eroding as late mail ballots favor Democrats.
The British Museum has postponed a lecture on ancient Israel and Judah as part of Jewish Culture Month, citing information that a significant portion of registered attendees planned to disrupt the event. The talk by Dr Paul Collins is rescheduled for a later date and will be livestreamed; the museum emphasizes its commitment to free expression while safeguarding participants.
Teen sensation Mirra Andreeva has reached her first Grand Slam final at Roland Garros after defeating Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 6-3 in the semifinals. Andreeva, the youngest finalist in four years, will face either Diana Shnaider or Maja Chwalińska in Saturday's title match. Kostyuk's bid for a second major final this year ends here after a resilient campaign on clay.
California's top-two primary has left Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra, and Tom Steyer in a tight race for the November general election. Uncounted mail ballots could still influence which two advance. Observers note a historically crowded field and a potential shift in Democratic power dynamics.
Recent attacks across northwest and southwest Nigeria have intensified insecurity. Kidnappings, killings, and school disruptions are affecting students, teachers, and families. Authorities are stepping up investigations and security deployments as communities seek safety and families await the return of abducted children.
A series of antisemitic incidents has been reported: an arson attack on a Montreal synagogue, a Nazi-symbol flag incident at NYU, a brush with arson in London’s Golders Green, and DOJ lawsuits challenging campus antisemitism at UCLA and Harvard. Authorities and Jewish groups are calling for stronger prevention and accountability.
Armed groups in Iraq have begun inventorying weapons and aligning under state authority following calls from top Shiite authorities and political blocs. Muqtada al‑Sadr has pledged to separate Saraya al‑Salam from his movement and integrate it into state structures, while Asaib Ahl al‑Haqq and Imam Ali Brigades are also moving to surrender arms and coordinate with the armed forces amid renewed U.S. pressure.
Spain’s squad is gearing up for the World Cup with Lamine Yamal's fitness under close watch after hamstring injuries. De la Fuente has included Yamal and Nico Williams in the squad, with prospects of limited minutes if not fully fit. Spain aims to defend its European title and go deep in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
President Trump has visited western Wisconsin for a farm-focused event and is promoting support for Rep. Derrick Van Orden as midterm elections approach. The trip follows concerns about tariffs, rising fertilizer and fuel costs, and political headwinds in the district.
The United States has delivered a convincing 3-2 win over Senegal in Charlotte, marking a clear step forward under Mauricio Pochettino. The tactical base remains a 3-4-2-1, with Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson showing form. Christian Pulisic ends goal drought; Pepi and Dest contribute key moments. Questions remain about the defense in Richards’ absence.
The pope has begun a weeklong visit in Madrid, greeted by Spain’s Catholic royalty. He is meeting abuse-survivor groups and addressing the parliament as part of a broader effort to connect with young Catholics and European audiences amid ongoing clergy-crisis discussions.
Across host North America, fans report record prices for tickets, travel and accommodation for the 2026 World Cup. Dynamic pricing and an expanded 48-team format are driving costs higher, leading some fans to watch from home or abroad while others pay premium for knockout-stage seats.
The Times of Israel reports that a defamation suit against The New York Times is being considered, following a May article alleging sexual abuse by Israeli authorities in detention. Legal experts say any suit would be difficult, with US standards on defamation and potential discovery risk. Israel's government remains tight-lipped about the process.
The United States has attacked Iranian coastal radar sites after four Iranian one-way attack drones posed an immediate threat to Strait of Hormuz maritime traffic, per CENTCOM. The action follows a ceasefire in the Mideast war that remains fragile as talks stall and cross-border strikes continue.
Vladimir Putin has said there is no reason to meet Volodymyr Zelensky after Zelensky published an open letter calling for direct talks to end the war. Zelensky has suggested a cease-fire and direct negotiations outside the Trump administration’s process, while urging long-term agreements.
SpaceX has filed for a record-breaking IPO, aiming to raise about $75 billion at a $1.5–2 trillion valuation. Morningstar and other analysts warn the price may be overstated, given near-term profits remain uncertain; regulators and index providers are shaping the listing’s visibility and early trading dynamics.
Zeinab Ahmad, 31, remains in custody in Melbourne as she seeks bail on two slavery crimes tied to alleged IS-linked enslavement in Raqqa. Court hearings have heard that she and her mother could be released under police-led conditions, including an ankle monitor and religious counseling; a police witness warns these measures may not mitigate risk.
The NTSB has issued an initial report on the May 3 United Airlines Boeing 767 landing near Newark, finding debris from a light pole damaged a bakery truck on the New Jersey Turnpike. No injuries were reported among the 200+ aboard; the plane sustained substantial damage.
A Frontier Airlines flight from San Juan to Chicago diverted to Miami after a passenger attempted to open exit doors and attacked a crew member. Off-duty staff and passengers helped restrain him before authorities arrested him in Miami. A separate Bluetooth-word incident on a Newark flight prompted a later security sweep and reboarding.
Prime Minister has announced a new Ministerial Advisory Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion to tackle antisemitism as hate crimes surge to levels not seen since World War II. The government is also providing funding for security in faith-based institutions and expanding data on hate incidents, in response to calls from Jewish groups.
Dozens of federal and local officers have raided Burnstein von Seelen Precision Castings in Abbeville, arresting a plant manager and HR director as part of a state-backed investigation into identity theft and illegal hiring. ICE is detaining 48 workers while authorities review immigration statuses and pursue indictments for those involved in creating and selling fake IDs.
The FBI has moved to dismiss 5-6 officials connected to a 2023 Richmond memo that linked radical traditionalist Catholic ideology to extremist threats. The action follows a broader purge under Patel and came after the memo was publicly criticized and later withdrawn.
Update shows Mayor Bass maintaining first place with around a third of votes and 40%+ for second place still contested. Raman has gained ground, narrowing Pratt’s lead as thousands of ballots remain to be counted countywide.
Democrats are grappling with Graham Platner’s recent disclosures ahead of the Maine Senate race against Republican Sen. Susan Collins. The New York Times has reported disturbing accounts from several former partners, while Platner has described his past as a period of transformation. Party leaders remain cautiously supportive, highlighting the stakes for control of the Senate.
The Senate has passed a roughly $70 billion three-year funding bill for ICE and Border Patrol. The vote follows days of intra-party debate over a controversial settlement fund that could pay allies tied to the January 6 episode. Amendments to ban or repurpose the fund have failed, and the bill now heads to the House.
The Supreme Court has granted Alabama’s emergency appeal to use a map drawn three years ago, which features a majority-Black population in only one of seven districts. The decision, amid a broader redistricting fight following a Louisiana ruling, affects upcoming August primaries and reflects ongoing partisan battles over voting rights and district maps.
The White House has issued a full, complete, and unconditional pardon for Stephen Buyer, a former Indiana congressman and veteran. Buyer has asserted his innocence and says the pardon reflects a politically motivated prosecution. He was sentenced in 2023 to 22 months for insider trading related to T-Mobile-Sprint and Navigant deals, with more than $350,000 in gains forfeited and a $10,000 fine; he was released in 2025.
A Maine Democrat candidate, Platner, has faced fresh allegations from former girlfriends about abusive behavior and infidelity, alongside revelations of a Nazi-symbol tattoo and sexting during marriage. Platner denies violence and says past acts reflect a dark period; campaigning focuses on working‑class issues as the primary election nears.
Seattle City Council has unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on new large-scale datacenter developments, amid concerns over power use, water consumption, and AI infrastructure demands. The move follows four developers seeking to build five large datacenters in Seattle, with activists and Amazon employees advocating for tighter regulations. The measure allows time to draft regulations for AI facilities and may enable separate rates for large-load customers.
A string of art and heritage stories has emerged this week: a UCSD sale reveals a landmark La Jolla home once lived in by Dr. Seuss, new permanent Vermont gallery space opens to showcase a private 20th‑century collection, a Tel Aviv exhibit highlights Golbahar’s garden paintings, and Ruth Evans’s North London home reveals a vibrant collector’s life.
May payrolls have grown more than expected, with unemployment steady at 4.3%. The data confirms a robust labor market, prompting questions about the pace of Fed policy moves as investors weigh rate expectations.