Scott Hastings, Scotland rugby league legend, has died aged 61 after battling cancer. A key member of Scotland’s 1990 Grand Slam side and a Lions tourist, Hastings later became a broadcaster and charity advocate. Tributes have flowed from former teammates, clubs and political figures.
England has maintained its world-record run in the Women’s Six Nations after beating France in a high‑stakes match, while Ireland has crushed Scotland and other results shape the standings. The results come as England’s professionalization and crowd support continue to set the tone for women’s rugby.
The Royal Pop collection by Swatch and Audemars Piguet has triggered widespread excitement and crowded launches across major cities, with stores closing for safety as lines form for a $400 pocket watch that is already commanding high resale prices.
The IMF has upgraded the UK’s 2026 growth forecast to 1.0% from 0.8%, saying pre-war momentum supports the revision. It warns the Iran conflict could dampen activity later and signals higher energy and food prices if the war continues, with inflation peaking near 4%.
The chancellor has signalled plans to extend the temporary fuel duty reduction beyond its current expiry, amid political and economic pressure. The move, if confirmed, would keep pump prices lower while the government weighs longer-term funding and security concerns linked to global oil markets.
Four members of Palestine Action have been convicted of criminal damage for the 2024 Elbit Systems raid in Bristol; one defendant is also convicted of grievous bodily harm. Sentencing is set for June 12 as courts review the proscription status and potential terror links.
Ryanair has said it is confident there will be no jet fuel shortages this summer, as it hedges most of its needs. It expects fares to be broadly flat for the peak season, with some pressure from late bookings. The airline reports a record annual profit and is negotiating a new contract for chief executive Michael O’Leary, with details to be announced in coming weeks.
Labour’s Andy Burnham has sought permission to stand in Makerfield after MP Josh Simons steps down. The contest pits Labour against Reform UK in a seat that has swung against Labour in local elections, with Greens campaigning and national polling uncertain.
Prince Harry has written in the New Statesman about rising antisemitism in Britain, saying it is deeply troubling and that legitimate protest over Middle East events must not translate into hostility toward Jewish communities. The piece follows a surge in antisemitic incidents in London and growing concerns amid pro-Palestinian protests. The coverage spans reactions from police, faith leaders and Jewish communal bodies as Britain grapples with safety and free expression.
A spate of antisemitic violence has intensified in London’s Golders Green and broader security concerns are rising after a planned U.S. plot against Jewish sites was disrupted and a string of stabbing incidents prompted high-level visits and a terrorism threat elevation.
The government is moving to explore a UK-wide Olympic bid in the North, with UK Sport conducting a phase-one study into costs, benefits, and feasibility for a 2040s Games. Ministers emphasise London’s value but say the North could anchor a future bid, and the BOA/BPA would decide final next steps.
UN-Habitat-led forum in Baku and the UK Global Partnerships Conference in London are highlighting the global housing crisis, informal settlements, and evolving development cooperation amid conflict and climate pressures. The events stress housing, resilience, and coordinated international action.
England have won the Women’s Six Nations, extending their winning streak and showcasing depth as injuries and retirements force a reshaped squad. Ellie Kildunne and Jess Breach starred as England overwhelmed France to seal yet another Grand Slam and fuel confidence ahead of the 2029 World Cup.
Home prices in the UK have risen by 1.2% in May, with annual prices showing a North-South split. North and North East lead annual gains, while London and the Southeast see declines. Buyer activity remains strong with record buyer choice and high listings, though price realism remains crucial for quick sales.
Avanti West Coast has announced a summer timetable reduction on key intercity routes, trimming about 38 weekday services from July 20 to August 28 after a government request to curb spending. The changes target routes with multiple trains per hour and aim to minimize disruption while keeping revenue intact. The move precedes potential public ownership of the rail network.
Forecasts indicate a shift from recent cold snaps to milder, spring-like conditions across much of the UK, with temperatures rising into the low-to-mid 20s in parts of England over the bank holiday, though rain and showers remain likely in northern and western areas.
Fatah has held its first general conference in nearly a decade and has re-elected Mahmoud Abbas as movement chair while voting a new Central Committee. Marwan Barghouti has topped votes, Majed Faraj and Jibril Rajoub have kept senior roles, and Yasser Abbas has won a seat on the Central Committee.
Greenland’s prime minister has met U.S. special envoy Jeff Landry in Nuuk and has said the Greenlandic people "are not for sale". The meeting has been described as respectful; Greenland has reiterated that self-determination is non-negotiable while a U.S.-Greenland-Denmark working group has continued confidential talks.
Neymar has been named in Brazil’s 26-man squad ahead of the 2030 World Cup cycle, with coach Carlo Ancelotti prioritising fitness and form after his ACL injury in 2023. The squad also features Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and other regulars, while missing several injured attackers.
Cuban president Miguel Díaz‑Canel has said Cuba "poses no threat" after US reports — citing classified intelligence — that Havana has obtained more than 300 military drones from Russia and Iran and discussed strikes on US assets including Guantánamo Bay. Cuba has denied the claims and warned a US attack would "trigger a bloodbath."
Neymar has been fighting to prove his fitness for Brazil ahead of the World Cup 2026. He is involved in a high-profile substitution mix-up at Santos, which has intensified debate over his place in the squad. Ancelotti is weighing eligibility as Brazil finalises its 26-man squad.
Alex Saab has been deported to the United States and has appeared in court. He faces a single count of money laundering tied to a long-running bribery scheme connected to Maduro-era contracts. Prosecutors say he helped channel oil revenues and secure contracts, with ongoing investigations into the CLAP program and related corruption.
Israel’s prime minister has said he has made a secret March 26 trip to Al‑Ain to meet UAE president Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and has called it a “historic breakthrough.” The UAE has denied the visit. Multiple outlets have reported broader Israel–UAE defence cooperation during the Iran war, including Iron Dome batteries and alleged intelligence coordination.
Palestinian activist Ramy Shaath has been notified by the Nanterre prefecture that deportation proceedings may be initiated. Shaath, who has lived in France since 2022 with his French wife and daughter, says the move follows years of residency difficulties and questions his political activity.
Armed attackers have abducted dozens of students from a primary school in Mussa, Borno State, and at least 40 more from a Baptist school in Oyo State. Authorities are assessing numbers while rights groups warn that abductions are driving families to pull children from school.
Today NextEra Energy has announced a definitive agreement to combine with Dominion Energy in a roughly $67bn all‑stock deal that will create the world’s largest regulated electric utility by market cap. The combined company will serve about 10 million customer accounts across Florida, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina and will be majority‑owned by NextEra shareholders.
Iran has conveyed a revised peace proposal to the United States through Pakistan during stalled mediated talks, demanding lifting of sanctions, release of frozen assets, compensation and continued nuclear enrichment rights; Washington and Israel are preparing for possible renewed strikes while a fragile ceasefire has largely held since April.
A drone has struck an electrical generator outside the Barakah nuclear plant in Abu Dhabi, causing a fire but no radiological release or injuries, officials have said. The UAE has said two other drones were intercepted and is investigating the attack. The strike has occurred as the US is discussing military options with Israel and President Trump has warned Iran to make a deal fast.
Ukraine has carried out large-scale drone strikes deep inside Russia overnight, with Russian authorities saying hundreds and then more than 1,000 drones have been intercepted. At least four people have been killed and dozens injured in the Moscow and Belgorod regions; Moscow’s airport and oil refinery have reported debris and localized damage. Zelensky has called the strikes "entirely justified."
The United States has halted its involvement in the Permanent Joint Board on Defense with Canada to reassess the forum’s benefits, amid strains over defense spending and a broader push by the Trump administration for allies to shoulder more burden. The pause follows statements from US Undersecretary Elbridge Colby and mirrors tensions across North American security and trade.
A judge has ruled that a notebook and a gun found in Luigi Mangione’s backpack can be used as evidence in the Manhattan murder case against UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, while other items from the backpack are suppressed. Mangione faces state murder charges and a separate federal case; the trial timeline remains intact.
Elina Svitolina has won her third Rome title, defeating Coco Gauff in a three-set final. The victory follows a remarkable resurgence after maternity leave, with Svitolina climbing to No.7 and threatening Grand Slam chances at Roland Garros. Ukraine’s top players are also maintaining a strong presence in the rankings amid ongoing wartime pressure.
The U.S. Treasury has renewed a 30-day general license to allow temporary access to Russian oil and petroleum products stranded on tankers, extending the previous waiver that had lapsed. The extension targets poorer nations unable to secure Gulf oil shipments amid geopolitical tensions and sanctions, while acknowledging risks that the move could finance Russia’s war efforts.
EU foreign ministers are weighing a direct track with Russia on Ukraine peace, insisting any broker must be credible and independent of Moscow. Putin has floated Gerhard Schröder as a potential EU envoy, prompting caution from Brussels. Kyiv is coordinating with Europe to apply more pressure, while EU ministers debate the path to peace.
A 31-year-old Italian man of Moroccan descent has been detained after driving into pedestrians in Modena, injuring several people. Investigators are examining motives while noting no confirmed terrorist link; authorities cite possible mental-health factors and social distress. Four remain in critical condition; the driver was stopped by bystanders and police.
Dara has won Eurovision 2026 in Vienna with Bangaranga, giving Bulgaria its first title. Israel finishes second amid protests over its Gaza war, while five countries boycott the contest. Delta Goodrem represents Australia and is seen as a strong contender.
Researchers have digitized a 9th-century Rome manuscript of Bede’s Ecclesiastical History and identified Caedmon’s Hymn embedded in the Latin text, making it the earliest known English verse. The find is dated to the 9th century, three centuries earlier than the previously earliest 12th-century copy. Magnanti and Faulkner say the discovery underscores the early diffusion of English.
A decree by President Putin allows permanent residents of Transnistria to obtain Russian citizenship through a simplified process, waiving language, history and registration requirements. The measure comes as Moldova seeks EU accession and Moscow maintains influence, amid regional security concerns and a Russian military presence.
AFC/M23 has accused coalition forces of deadly attacks on civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, while reconciliation efforts and U.S. sanctions continue to shape regional dynamics. Reports describe killings, abductions, and looting in Uvira and surrounding areas, with international responses varying from condemnation to calls for accountability.
Tens of thousands of Israeli nationalists have marched through Jerusalem on Jerusalem Day, with far‑right ministers entering the Al‑Aqsa/Temple Mount compound and many marchers chanting anti‑Palestinian slogans. Palestinian shopkeepers have closed their businesses, activists have deployed to protect residents, and several governments have condemned provocations.
Police are responding to an active shooter incident at the Islamic Center of San Diego in Clairemont. Authorities say people have been shot; the situation is ongoing and authorities are on scene.
Protests over recent fuel-price hikes have intensified, with multiple cities experiencing unrest as transport operators strike. Authorities report arrests and disruptions to daily life, while officials attribute the rises to global oil market volatility and domestic tax measures.
The U.S. has extended for another month a waiver that allows the sale of Russian crude already loaded on tankers, aiming to temper global oil prices as tensions around Iran and Ukraine persist. The move faces criticism that it benefits Moscow’s war effort while maintaining oil supply.
Israel has approved new legislation to try Oct. 7 attackers in a special military court, with a livestreamed tribunal, three-judge panels, and possible death sentences for genocide or related crimes. The law expands to include others charged with crimes against the Jewish people, war crimes and crimes against humanity, and bars prisoner exchanges for those convicted. Trials will be public, with remotely participating defendants and an appeals process.
Iran has **already** begun allowing certain Chinese vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz under new Iranian-managed transit protocols, as Tehran negotiates with Beijing amid a broader U.S.-Iran war. Reports from Tasnim and Fars say crossings began after an understanding on Iranian management protocols, with more than 30 ships noted and China’s involvement highlighted during a high‑level dialogue between Trump and Xi.
Belarusian and Russian forces are conducting a joint exercise to test the movement and deployment of nuclear weapons from unplanned launch sites. Officials say the drills are routine and not aimed at any third party, but Kyiv and Western partners warn of escalated nuclear risk amid Belarus’ proximity to NATO borders.
The White House has reportedly instructed military planners to be ready for a large-scale assault on Iran if a deal is not reached as Gulf leaders urge restraint. Biden-era tensions again center on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear posture, with Tehran warning of renewed action if attacked.
Rallies and roadblocks across Bolivia have intensified, with miners, farmers and teachers demanding labor reforms and fuel relief. Security forces have cleared some blockades in La Paz to maintain humanitarian corridors, while international governments call for stability. Morales supporters continue to call for President Paz’s resignation amid an ongoing economic crisis that has seen shortages and rising prices.
Former LAPD detective Mark Fuhrman, involved in the O. J. Simpson case and later a commentator and author, has died. Reports say his death, from throat cancer, occurred May 12, with official details limited. Fuhrman’s career included a controversial glove finding and later perjury charges. This is a developing story.
The Houthis and Yemen's government have agreed to release more than 1,600 detainees in what UN officials call the largest prisoner exchange in the Yemen conflict, with ongoing talks for additional releases and prisoner visits under ICRC oversight.
Beagles from Ridglan Farms outside Madison have been moved to rescue groups and adoption networks after a confidential deal with animal-welfare groups to purchase the dogs. About 500 remain at Ridglan as talks with activists continue. Protests and a prior license-deal shaped the ongoing transfer and care for the dogs.
As Cannes opens, Iranian director Asghar Farhadi has described civilian deaths in Iran as extremely cruel and tragic, saying cinema can condemn violence while supporting censorship-free work abroad. His Paris-set Parallel Tales is in competition.
France's Canal+ chief executive has said he will no longer work with hundreds of cinema figures who signed a petition accusing Vincent Bolloré of steering a far-right “civilisational project.” The move follows open letters published around Cannes, highlighting concerns over Bolloré’s influence on French cinema and media.
A Belgian former diplomat, Étienne Davignon, has died at 93 moments after being ordered to stand trial for involvement in the 1961 murder of Patrice Lumumba, a pivotal decolonisation figure. The Brussels court had moved to pursue charges in March, but Davignon has died before trial. The Lumumba family says the pursuit of legal redress is not complete. The Lumumba case had already shaped Belgium’s colonial accountability debate for decades.
Actor Niko Foster and wife Stephanie have listed their MacDonald Highlands estate for $21.9 million, featuring indoor-outdoor spaces, a private theater, wellness wing and seven-car garage. Nearby, a Rivage penthouse sells for multi‑million prices with ocean views and full amenities; the market shows sustained demand for luxury residences with resort-style living. The Guardian marks a parallel art and cultural narrative in Europe.
North Korea’s Naegohyang Women’s FC has arrived in South Korea for the AFC Women’s Champions League semi-final, marking the first visit by North Korean athletes to the South in eight years. The team will play Suwon FC Women in Suwon, with the match set for Wednesday. The trip is overseen under inter-Korean exchange rules, and tickets for the event have sold out.
France and Algeria are repairing ties after a two-year diplomatic rift. A French ambassador has returned to Algiers, senior envoys are visiting, and planned talks cover security, migration, and anti-terror cooperation. Jailed French journalist Christophe Gleizes remains a focal point amid questions of a presidential pardon. The developments follow a January–May push to restore dialogue.
The World Health Organization has declared the Congo outbreak a public health emergency of international concern as cases and deaths rise in Ituri and North Kivu. Diagnostic delays, testing for the wrong strain, and disrupted sample handling have hindered early detection, enabling spread to Uganda and rebel-held areas.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has said he would not advise his children to study or work in the United States given the current social climate, signaling growing skepticism about the US as a destination for talent. Merz says Germany still offers strong opportunities and urges a measured, national approach to foreign policy in light of U.S. volatility.
Trump has warned Iran to move quickly toward a peace deal, saying “there won’t be anything left of them” if negotiations fail. The U.S. and Israel remain locked in a broader clash with Tehran, with regional outages and drone incidents intensifying the conflict. Ceasefire efforts in Lebanon and Gaza are fragile amid renewed strikes.
A drone has struck an electrical generator outside the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra area. UAE authorities say no injuries and no radiological impact, with investigations ongoing. Iran-linked groups are cited as potential sources, and international bodies have urged restraint.
Trump has instructed the U.S. military to be prepared for a full, large-scale assault on Iran on short notice if an acceptable deal is not reached, after threatening renewed conflict amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing negotiations.
Lebanese President Aoun has urged reaching an end to the Lebanon-Israel war, saying he is prepared to "do the impossible" to stop the fighting. Health authorities report the death toll in Lebanon has neared 3,000, with ongoing Israeli strikes, evacuations, and Hezbollah operations continuing in south Lebanon and northern Israel amid a 45‑day ceasefire extension.
China and the United States have agreed, in principle, to set up boards to negotiate tariff reductions and to resolve agricultural non-tariff barriers. Beijing says it will pursue bird-flu‑free zones and address U.S. concerns on beef, poultry and bonsai exports, while Washington seeks continued U.S. sales of aircraft and farm goods.
Hungary has summoned the Russian ambassador and is seeking information on when Moscow plans to end the war, marking a sharp turn from the previous government’s stance. The move follows a large drone barrage on Ukraine, including Transcarpathia, and is framed as a commitment to restoring trust with Ukraine and Europe.
Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi has been granted bail after hospitalisation and is now in Tehran for medical treatment. Her health has deteriorated during detention, with multiple heart issues and a recent vascular decline. Supporters stress she must not be returned to prison conditions.
Early mail ballots have surged in California ahead of the June 2 primary, with Republicans leading in early returns and Democrats tightening in second place. Data from Political Data Intelligence shows Republicans at 37% and Democrats at 41% of ballots returned, while independents/other make up 22%. Analysts caution that these numbers are early and may shift as campaigns unfold.
Tom Steyer has built his campaign for California governor around affordability and taxing the uber-wealthy, presenting himself as a billionaire willing to pay more in taxes. As the June 2 primary approaches, he is rallying support with a focus on economics and climate policy, while other candidates and critics question the practicality of his plan.
Meta has restructured to create AI-native organizations with flatter teams. About 8,000 roles are being cut in a three-wave process starting at 4 a.m. local time, while more than 7,000 employees are being shifted to work on AI initiatives. The moves follow heavy AI investment and come alongside broader cost-cutting efforts.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has posted a Nakba Day video featuring a survivor’s testimony, arguing the displacement of Palestinians began in 1947–49 and continues today. The one‑sided framing has drawn swift pushback from Jewish groups and lawmakers who say the post ignores counter‑facts and risks inflaming antisemitism.
California regulators have found hundreds of violations in State Farm’s handling of wildfire claims tied to the 2025 Eaton and Palisades fires. The investigation reviewed 220 claims and identified 398 state-law violations in 114 cases. Authorities seek penalties and potential license actions as part of broader reforms to post-disaster claims processing.
Alabama voters are heading to the polls while special August primaries are slated in four districts to implement a new map after a Supreme Court ruling. Gov. Ivey has signaled a new path for redistricting as Republican candidates compete for the governorship and Senate seats ahead of November.
Unions representing Long Island Rail Road workers have not reached a new contract after days of talks. Negotiations are ongoing with the MTA and the National Mediation Board stepping in as commuters face disruptions and alternative travel options are being arranged by state authorities.
A fast-moving brush fire in Simi Valley, Ventura County, has grown to hundreds of acres with evacuation orders issued for thousands. Firefighters are battling the Sandy Fire as winds push flames toward Thousand Oaks, with multiple aircraft aiding water drops.
A California jury has unanimously found that Elon Musk’s 2024 lawsuit against OpenAI, Sam Altman and Greg Brockman has been filed too late, sparing OpenAI and its leadership from liability. The court accepts the jury’s verdict and signals an appeal may proceed. The case had centered on Musk’s claim that OpenAI shifted from nonprofit to for-profit and diverted charitable funds.
Broadway musical Just in Time has recouped its $12.5 million capitalization costs and is now positioned to share profits with investors. The show, initially opened in 2025 to mixed expectations, has endured leadership changes and fluctuations in ticket prices. Recent weeks have seen strong grosses, with a mid-March run peak before normalizing. A North American tour is planned for next year.
The FBI has arrested former Brooklyn judge Edward H. King and Yechiel “Sam” Sprei after prosecutors allege they duped investors out of $6.5 million through fictitious real estate opportunities and misused attorney escrow accounts. The pair face wire fraud charges and potential 20-year prison terms; King resigned last year amid a judicial ethics probe.