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Netanyahu says there will be no ceasefire in Lebanon as Israel strikes Hezbollah sites

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there will be no ceasefire in Lebanon, even as Israel says it is attacking Hezbollah launch sites. The remarks came after Donald Trump said he had asked Netanyahu to be more low-key, while UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire deal and that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz should be toll-free.

Jury awards $130 million in case of 2-year-old killed after repeated abuse in Washington state

A Pierce County jury has awarded $130 million in a wrongful-death case over the death of 2-year-old Sarai Brooks, finding systemic failures by Washington’s child welfare agency and a day care contributed to her killing. Court records and the family’s lawsuit say Sarai showed clear signs of abuse, including bruises, bite marks, burns, and black eyes, but the warning signs were not reported or acted on. Her mother’s boyfriend, Augustino Maile, is serving prison time after pleading guilty to manslaughter and child assault charges, and Sarai’s mother also pleaded guilty in connection with the case.

Melania Trump denies any friendship or involvement with Jeffrey Epstein

Melania Trump publicly denied having any friendship or involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. She made the statement Thursday afternoon.

Путин объявляет 32-часовое пасхальное перемирие в Украине

Vladimir Putin has объявлен a temporary 32-hour ceasefire in Ukraine, timed for Orthodox Easter and set to run from 4 p.m. on April 11 to the end of April 12. The Kremlin said it expects Ukraine to follow the same truce, though both sides have previously accused each other of violations during short holiday ceasefires.

Pentagon AI Official Reportedly Made Up to $24 Million Selling xAI Shares After Defense Deal

A top Pentagon research and engineering official, Emil Michael, reportedly made up to $24 million by selling a private stake in Elon Musk’s xAI after the Defense Department entered an agreement with the company. Ethics records released this month show his stake was worth as much as $1 million when he joined the department. Michael oversees negotiations with AI companies and has been pushing the Pentagon to expand AI use quickly.

U.S. Has Admitted 4,499 Refugees Since October, Mostly South Africans

The United States has admitted 4,499 refugees since October, and all but three were South African. President Trump has given priority to Afrikaners, the white minority group he says is being persecuted, a claim the South African government has rejected.

Woman Convicted in Fatal Drunk Driving Crash After Prior DUI Arrest the Day Before

Lydia Hanson, 32, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted in the death of 78-year-old Richard Snyder. Prosecutors said she was driving 99 mph in a 55 mph zone with a blood alcohol level of 0.34, more than four times the legal limit, when she crossed into oncoming traffic and hit Snyder head-on. Authorities said she had also been stopped for DUI the day before, just a few miles from the crash scene.

Kremlin Says Russia Will Observe Orthodox Easter Ceasefire in Ukraine

Russia says President Vladimir Putin has объявлен an Orthodox Easter ceasefire in the war with Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier signaled that Kyiv was open to a possible Easter truce.

Diesel Prices Hit Record Highs in Six States, With More Increases Possible

Diesel prices reached record levels on Thursday in six states. The report also points to where prices could rise next.

Melania Trump denies any relationship with Jeffrey Epstein as NATO reports focus on Hormuz security

Melania Trump said at a press conference that she never had a relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and added, “I am not Epstein’s victim,” though it was unclear what specific claims she was addressing. Separately, Reuters reports that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has briefed some capitals that Trump wants concrete commitments within days for help securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Nelly and The Fray Among Headliners in Pennsylvania’s Free America250 Concert Series

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro announced five free concerts across the state as part of the Commonwealth Concert Series for America’s 250th anniversary. The lineup includes Cole Swindell and Gabby Barrett at Penn State on May 23, The Fray in Erie on June 6, The Avett Brothers in Hershey on June 13, Lady A and En Vogue in Wilkes-Barre on June 20, and Third Eye Blind and Nelly in Pittsburgh on June 27. Tickets will be free, but required for entry.

Oxford United stadium plan faces legal challenge over woodland concerns

Oxford United’s planned 16,000-seat stadium near Kidlington is facing a judicial review after campaigners filed legal action against Cherwell District Council. Friends of Stratfield Brake say the planning approval was flawed, arguing the council did not properly assess the impact on the nearby woodland or the matchday transport plans. The council says it stands by its decision and will defend it in court.

How Artemis II astronauts will reenter Earth and splash down off California

Orion will reenter the atmosphere after Artemis II, dropping more than 120,000 meters in about 13 minutes before heading to a planned splashdown site off the coast of California.

RSPCA rescues more than 250 dogs from one overcrowded house

The RSPCA has rescued more than 250 poodle-cross dogs from a single home after conditions were said to have spiraled out of control. The charity says the dogs were frightened, badly neglected, and some were so matted and sore they had to be carried out. It also said the case reflects a growing number of multi-animal incidents, with the dogs now spread across shelters for rehoming.

UAE Demands Clarification From Iran After Ceasefire Announcement

The UAE says it wants full clarification from Iran on the ceasefire deal and the attacks that have spread across the Gulf. Abu Dhabi says reopening the Strait of Hormuz remains a central priority, while Tehran’s blockade continues despite its commitment to restore free navigation.

EU Says Trump’s Proposed Strait of Hormuz Toll Plan With Iran Would Be Illegal

Donald Trump has suggested a “joint venture” to charge ships tolls in the Strait of Hormuz, but the European Commission says such a plan would be unlawful.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Pushes Back on Trump’s Remarks

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said Greenland is a proud nation of 57,000 people and rejected President Donald Trump’s latest comments about the Arctic island. Trump had criticized NATO’s position on Greenland and called it a “big, poorly run piece of ice.” Nielsen said Greenland is working every day as a good global citizen and is not “some piece of ice.”

U.S. Fourth-Quarter 2025 GDP Growth Revised Lower

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis said fourth-quarter 2025 economic growth was slower than previously estimated, after revising investment growth downward.

Brighterdaysahead wins the Aintree Hurdle for Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy

Brighterdaysahead powered to victory in the Aintree Hurdle on the first day of the Grand National meeting. The win gave Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy two victories on the day.

House Republicans Block Democratic Effort to Limit Trump’s War Powers on Iran

House Democrats tried to force a vote on a resolution limiting President Trump’s ability to carry out military operations in Iran during a pro forma House session on Thursday. Rep. Glenn Ivey sought recognition to advance the measure backed by Rep. Gregory Meeks, but Republicans blocked the effort.

SNP Calls for Stronger Security Cooperation After Russian Submarine Activity

The SNP is urging closer security cooperation with European allies after reports of Russian submarine activity near undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic. Stephen Gethins said the incident shows the need for greater investment in air and maritime security in Scotland and broader alignment with European partners.

China’s yuan gains support as Middle East war eases and investors bet on further strength

Investors and economists are raising bets that China’s yuan will strengthen, helped by a short-term lift from the Middle East war and broader trends that may be increasing its appeal as a haven. Funds have been buying the currency through options, with lower oil prices and a stronger risk appetite after the ceasefire announcement adding support. Some traders are also using the yuan more in trade, and one economist said Beijing appears willing to let the currency rise further.

Meta Unveils New AI Model as It Tries to Catch Rivals

Meta has unveiled its first new AI model from a high-profile team of engineers it hired at great expense as it tries to close the gap with Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic. The rollout lifted Meta shares 7%, but analysts questioned whether the company has already fallen too far behind. Meta still has major advantages, including its huge user base across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, plus a long track record in digital advertising.

Husband Arrested in Bahamas in Michigan Woman’s Disappearance

Brian Hooker has been arrested in the Bahamas in connection with the disappearance of his wife, a Michigan woman. His lawyer says he denies any wrongdoing.

Poll Shows Thomas Massie Leading GOP Primary by Double Digits

A new independent poll in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District shows Rep. Thomas Massie ahead of Trump-endorsed candidate Ed Gallrein. The survey of 437 likely Republican voters found Massie at 47.4% and Gallrein at 36.8%.

Starmer Faces Pressure to Project Strength on Gulf Tour Amid Middle East Tensions

Sir Keir Starmer is on a Gulf tour as Labour tries to cast him as a global statesman ahead of May’s elections. He is seeking to reassure allies and keep shipping through the Strait of Hormuz open, while opposition figures accuse him of posturing and question Britain’s defence planning. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has warned that Israeli strikes in Lebanon are destabilising the region, and Defence Secretary John Healey said the UK should not deploy all its military assets to the Middle East.

Jim Whittaker, the First American to Summit Everest, Dies at 97

Jim Whittaker, the first American to climb Mount Everest, has died at 97. He shared world-class climbing status with his identical twin, Lou, who led the first American expedition to scale Everest’s north face.

17-Year-Old Mika Stojsavljevic to Make Great Britain Debut in Billie Jean King Cup Qualifier

Seventeen-year-old Mika Stojsavljevic is set to make her Billie Jean King Cup debut for Great Britain this week in a qualifying tie against Australia.

Plaid Cymru manifesto promises child payments and 100 new GPs

Rhun ap Iorwerth says a Plaid Cymru government would cut waiting times, help with childcare costs, and boost the economy, with plans that include payments for children and hiring 100 new GPs.

High-Quality Plant-Based Diets Linked to Lower Dementia Risk, Study Finds

New research in Neurology tracked nearly 93,000 people for about 11 years and found that a higher-quality plant-based diet was linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes appeared protective, while refined grains and added sugars were tied to higher risk. The study did not look specifically at vegetarian or vegan diets, and researchers noted the usual limitation of self-reported eating habits.

Petrol and Diesel Prices Rise Again Amid Ceasefire Concerns

Petrol and diesel prices have risen again, and motoring groups are warning drivers not to expect a significant fall in costs any time soon.

UK Drivers Face Higher Fuel Prices as Treasury Gains Extra VAT Revenue

British motorists are paying more at the pump after the conflict in the Middle East pushed up fuel prices, according to RAC data. Petrol is averaging 157.71p a litre and diesel 190.62p, while separate estimates say drivers have spent an extra £920 million since the war began, with the total expected to pass £1 billion over Easter. The RAC Foundation says the Treasury could have taken as much as £170 million in extra VAT, as pressure grows on the government over fuel duty and further price rises remain possible.

Oil prices rise as concerns grow over the fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire

Crude prices moved higher after earlier sharp falls on Wednesday, when plans to pause the war first emerged. Traders are now weighing growing concerns over the fragility of the ceasefire.

Cooper calls for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen fully and without tolls

Foreign Secretary Cooper has urged a full, toll-free reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and said Lebanon should be urgently included in the ceasefire agreement.

Mexico miner rescued alive after 14 days trapped underground

A worker has been pulled out alive after 14 days trapped in a flooded gold and silver mine in Mexico. Two other workers died in the incident.

Four die as small boat capsizes in the English Channel

Four people have died after a small boat sank just off the coast of Boulogne while trying to cross the English Channel from France. French authorities launched a large rescue operation after reports of people in the water, and said the situation was still being assessed. The sinking comes as UK and French officials warn that smugglers are packing more people onto each boat, with further crossing attempts reported this morning.

Arne Slot explains why Mohamed Salah stayed on the bench in Liverpool’s loss to PSG

Arne Slot said Liverpool’s 2-0 Champions League defeat to PSG had turned into a game of survival, which is why Mohamed Salah stayed on the bench for the full match. PSG took control through goals from Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, but Slot said the tie is still alive heading into the second leg at Anfield.

Israeli strikes on Beirut kill at least 182 and wound hundreds

Lebanon spent the night digging through rubble after Israeli strikes hit busy commercial and residential districts in central Beirut late Wednesday. The health ministry says at least 182 people were killed and 890 were wounded.

Oil Climbs Back Above $97 as Traders Doubt the Ceasefire Will Hold

Oil rose back above $97 a barrel as investors bet the U.S.-Iran ceasefire may not last. The near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz is also keeping markets on edge.

Chris Wood’s Recovery Gives Nottingham Forest a Boost Before Trip to Porto

Nottingham Forest are getting a lift from Chris Wood’s progress back to full fitness as they prepare for key league and Europa League matches, including a trip to Porto. The New Zealand striker has been working his way back after knee surgery in December, and he recently scored for Forest’s under-21s in his return to action.

On This Day, April 9: Nazi Germany Invades Norway and Denmark

On April 9, 1940, Nazi Germany invaded Norway and Denmark.

Trump says U.S. forces will stay deployed around Iran until a real agreement is reached

President Donald Trump said late Wednesday that U.S. military forces will remain deployed around Iran until a “REAL AGREEMENT” is reached. The warning comes amid uncertainty over a cease-fire.

$3.6 Million in Bitcoin Stolen in Hack of Bitcoin Depot

A hacker stole credentials and transferred more than 50 bitcoin from wallets belonging to Bitcoin Depot, the Bitcoin ATM operator. The theft is valued at about $3.6 million.

Jim Whittaker, First U.S. Citizen to Reach Everest Summit, Dies at 97

Jim Whittaker, the first U.S. citizen to climb to the top of Mount Everest, has died at his home in Port Townsend, Washington, at age 97.

U.S. Moves Toward Automatic Draft Registration for Eligible Men Starting in December

The U.S. Selective Service System says it plans to start automatically enrolling men aged 18 to 25 into the military draft database from December, using federal data sources instead of requiring individual registration. The change is still under regulatory review, and any return to active conscription would still need congressional approval.

Bahamas Police Detain American Man in Disappearance of American Woman

Authorities in the Bahamas have detained a 59-year-old American man in connection with the disappearance of an American woman who went missing last weekend while out at sea.

OT Cybersecurity Firms Worry Anthropic’s AI Push Will Leave Them Behind

Operational technology security firms are increasingly concerned that manufacturers, operators, and their security vendors could be sidelined as artificial intelligence is used to secure critical software. Their basic ask is simple: if the future is being built, they’d like a seat at the table instead of a note saying they were welcome in theory.

Ohio man charged after alleged knife threat against homeowner in Warren County

A 23-year-old man was arrested in Warren County, Ohio, after surveillance video and family accounts said he approached a home late at night, threatened a father with a knife, and was later charged with aggravated menacing, trespassing, and criminal damage. No one was injured. He is being held on bail totaling more than $75,000, mostly cash-only.

Beijing Angered After Death of Chinese Semiconductor Researcher Questioned in the US

A Chinese semiconductor researcher was found dead after what Beijing described as hostile questioning by U.S. law enforcement. The case has triggered anger in Beijing.

Ben Crump Condemns Boston Police Shooting of Stephenson King Jr., Who Had 47 Prior Charges

Ben Crump said Stephenson King Jr.’s family deserves the truth and accountability after Boston police officer Nicholas O’Malley shot and killed King on March 11. Police say the shooting followed allegations that King carjacked a woman, rammed a cruiser, and tried to flee; records cited in the report say King had 47 prior charges in Boston, was out on bail in four felony cases, and had an outstanding warrant. O’Malley has been charged with manslaughter, and his arraignment drew a large police presence while a GoFundMe for him raised more than $500,000.

Former Army Insider Arrested in Federal Leak Investigation

Federal agents have arrested Courtney P. Williams, a former Army veteran who worked with a special military unit at Fort Bragg, on charges of unlawfully transmitting national defense information. Prosecutors say she shared classified tactics, techniques, and procedures with a journalist between 2022 and 2025 through calls, texts, and documents, including material marked Secret and NoForn. The FBI says the investigation is ongoing, while the journalist’s reporting has been identified by the Associated Press as matching material tied to Seth Harp’s work on the Army’s Delta Force unit.

Labour’s new Fair Work Agency gets arrest and search powers

Labour’s new Fair Work Agency will be able to arrest suspects, use reasonable force, carry out surprise inspections, search people, seize materials, and detain those suspected of labour market offences. It will enforce rules on minimum wage, modern slavery, holiday pay, and sick pay, with a £60.1 million annual budget and an instruction from ministers to consider future expansion of its remit. Business groups have warned the agency’s powers are too broad, while the government says it is simply bringing existing powers together to crack down on rogue employers.

Trump Blusters About NATO and Iran Ceasefire Deal

Donald Trump vented frustration with NATO and then claimed a ceasefire deal with Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The arrangement is described as vague and short on detail, with no clear concessions from Iran and key issues apparently pushed down the road.

Trump meets NATO chief after again threatening to leave the alliance

Donald Trump met NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House just hours after saying the United States could leave the alliance. Before the meeting, the White House said Trump believed NATO had “failed,” while Trump later posted that NATO “wasn’t there when we needed them” and again attacked the bloc. Rutte called the talks “frank and open” and said most European members had met their commitments, as reports suggested Trump is weighing reduced U.S. support, including possible troop and base changes in Europe.

Cyberattacks Are Becoming Part of Military Strategy, Analyst Says

Cyber operations are no longer just standalone attacks; they’re increasingly being woven into military strategy alongside traditional force. Mark Montgomery of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies says that shift is also putting private companies at greater risk from geopolitical threats.

Claude Mythos Shifts the Focus from Finding Bugs to Fixing Them

Anthropic’s Claude Mythos Preview shows how AI can find and chain vulnerabilities at scale. The bigger problem for defenders is not discovery, but redesigning disclosure, triage, and patching so fixes can be coordinated, validated, and deployed safely before attackers get there.

South Korea Reports Rise in Drug Trafficking From Southeast Asia

South Korean authorities say drug trafficking networks based in Southeast Asia are increasingly targeting the country, attracted by high prices and strong demand.

Electoral Commission warns that pressuring relatives over how to vote could lead to prison

The Electoral Commission has warned that anyone who pressures a spouse or other family member over how to vote in the upcoming local elections could face jail. It says family voting, including directing someone’s ballot or standing nearby to influence them, is a serious crime and that each vote must be cast privately and independently. The warning comes after police closed a separate inquiry into alleged family voting in the Gorton and Denton by-election, saying they found no evidence of intent to influence or deter voting.

South Korea unveils its first domestically developed reconnaissance UAV

South Korea held a rollout ceremony for its first mass-produced, domestically developed medium-altitude reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle.

South Korean Mail Carrier Praised After Helping Rescue Injured Man

South Korea’s postal service chief, Park In-hwan, praised a mail carrier who helped save a man injured at the scene of a suspected gas explosion.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX prepares for an initial public offering

SpaceX has reportedly filed confidential paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission as it prepares to go public. Multiple outlets say the company is aiming for a June listing, after months of speculation about an IPO.

South Korea Welcomes U.S.-Iran Ceasefire and Watches Hormuz Shipping Risks

South Korea welcomed the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, saying it could help reopen shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The move comes as Seoul watches for any disruption to a route critical to global energy supplies.

Uncertainty Grows Over U.S.-Iran Ceasefire as Strikes Continue

The United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire just before Trump’s deadline for more airstrikes expired, while Tehran said it would temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz. But the deal is already shaky: both sides are claiming victory, missile and drone activity has continued in parts of the region, and officials are offering conflicting accounts of the agreement’s terms, including uranium enrichment and the status of Lebanon. Shipping data shows some traffic returning to Hormuz, but markets and regional governments are still treating the truce as fragile at best.

New Jersey lifts moratorium to allow new nuclear power projects

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed a bill Wednesday that lifts the state’s 40-year moratorium on new nuclear plant construction, clearing the way for possible new nuclear projects. The move is part of a broader effort to boost in-state power generation and lower utility costs, after a recent report found New Jersey had the nation’s biggest energy cost increase last year. Sherrill also announced a nuclear task force to help guide the long-term effort while emphasizing public safety and transparency.

Fired University of Wisconsin President Says He Was Surprised by His Ouster

Former Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman says he was shocked by being fired Tuesday and still has not been told why. In his first interview since the ouster, he said he is unlikely to sue over the decision.

France Restricts Chinese-Made Solar Components

France is moving to limit Chinese photovoltaic components as it prepares a government-backed push for new solar projects. The restriction combines protectionist measures with cybersecurity requirements, with officials pointing to Chinese laws that require firms to share key information and cooperate with Beijing.

Federal Officials Are Still Reviewing a Proposed HIPAA Security Rule Update

The Trump administration has not yet decided whether to move forward with a proposed overhaul of the HIPAA Security Rule introduced by the previous administration. HHS OCR’s director said regulators are weighing whether the cost of doing nothing could be greater than the burden of compliance.

Two Men Charged in Alleged ISIS-Inspired Bomb Plot at NYC Protest

Federal prosecutors say two men, Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, plotted an ISIS-inspired attack during a counter-protest outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s home. Investigators say they tried to detonate two improvised explosive devices, discussed killing up to 60 people, and had backup plans if the original attack failed. Both men were quickly detained after the devices did not detonate, and they are being held without bail on terrorism-related charges.

Ritchie Torres Calls for Federal Probe Into Suspicious Futures Trading

Rep. Ritchie Torres called for a federal investigation into unusual trading in oil and equity futures before President Trump announced a five-day delay in attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure in March. He said the timing raises questions about possible misuse of advance information.

Wisconsin City Approves First Anti-Data Center Referendum

Voters in Port Washington, Wisconsin, approved a referendum requiring future large-scale data center projects that receive tax benefits to win local voter approval. Unofficial county results show the measure passed with about 66 percent support, making it the first known referendum of its kind in the state.

Putin Sends Warship Through the Channel After Starmer Threatens to Seize Russian Tankers

Vladimir Putin has defied Sir Keir Starmer’s warning over sanctioned Russian vessels by sending a warship to escort two ships through the English Channel. A British naval vessel shadowed the flotilla, which passed British waters earlier today. The move comes weeks after Starmer gave special forces authority to seize sanctioned Russian vessels, but the UK has not yet taken any. Starmer is also under pressure after an Iranian-made drone hit RAF Akrotiri and delays hit HMS Dragon’s deployment.

ICE agents expected to leave Philadelphia International Airport this week

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents sent to help at Philadelphia International Airport during the government shutdown are expected to leave as early as Thursday. Interim airport CEO Tracy Borda said the officers helped with queue management and passenger flow, and said there were no issues during their time in the terminals.

Gilgo Beach Suspect Pleads Guilty to Killing Eight Women

Rex Heuermann pleaded guilty on Wednesday to murdering eight women in a 17-year killing spree that terrorized Long Island.

Starmer says more work is needed to keep the US-Iran ceasefire in place

Prime Minister Keir Starmer says there is still a lot of work to do to make the US-Iran ceasefire hold. He also says fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz would help stabilise prices in the UK.

JD Vance Rejects Accusations of U.S. Election Interference in Hungary

In Budapest, U.S. Vice President JD Vance dismissed claims that Washington is meddling in Hungarian politics, calling them “darkly ironic.” He also said the U.S. had to show support for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, even as polls suggest the opposition Tisza party could win a supermajority in the upcoming election.

Hiker Stung More Than 100 Times by Bees Near Arizona Summit, Airlifted in Critical Condition

A hiker was airlifted from Lookout Mountain Preserve in Phoenix after being stung more than 100 times by bees near the summit on Saturday morning. Firefighters said he could not continue down the trail on his own and was taken to a hospital in critical condition.

Starmer says more work is needed to make the US-Iran ceasefire permanent as Gulf talks begin

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is meeting leaders in the Gulf to discuss diplomatic efforts in support of the ceasefire agreed between the US and Iran. He said there is still “a lot of work to do” if the truce is to become permanent.

Experts say ceasefire will not trigger a major rush of ships through the Strait of Hormuz

Shipping analysts say the ceasefire is unlikely to cause a major surge in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. They expect only a limited increase because vessels would still need Iranian permission to pass. Tehran says it will provide safe passage in coordination with its armed forces, while coastguards warned ships that try to transit without approval could be targeted and destroyed.

Spain says a broken rail was found the day before a train crash that killed 46

Spain’s Civil Guard says a section of railway track broke the day before a Madrid-bound Iryo service derailed and moved onto the opposite line, where it hit an oncoming Renfe train. The crash killed 46 people.

Phil Dowson says Champions Cup knockout rugby is different from the domestic game before Northampton’s quarter-final at Bath

Northampton Saints head to Bath on Friday for a Champions Cup quarter-final, and Phil Dowson says knockout European rugby brings a different kind of intensity from domestic matches. He pointed to the pressure of being out of the tournament if they get it wrong, the atmosphere at The Rec, and Bath’s motivation after Northampton’s recent wins over them, including December’s 41-21 victory and last season’s Premiership final.

Trump Says Lebanon Is Separate From Iran as Israel Launches Heavy Strikes

Israel launched heavy strikes on Lebanon amid uncertainty over a ceasefire, while the Lebanese prime minister said civilians were being killed. Trump said Lebanon is not included in the provisional ceasefire and described it as a separate issue from Iran, after saying Iran had “begged” for a ceasefire.

U.S. Defense Contractor Loses Reverse-Hijacking Bid Over open.space Domain

A UDRP panelist ruled against Kratos Defense & Security Solutions after the company tried to claim the open.space domain through reverse hijacking. After the ruling, the domain registrant said he would change the name of his project.

Scottish Labour promises £30 million to raise artists’ incomes to a living wage

Scottish Labour says it would spend £30 million to top up the incomes of Scottish artists and musicians to a living wage. Leader Anas Sarwar says the plan would be part of a wider overhaul of arts funding in Scotland, with culture folded into the government’s economic strategy if Labour wins next month’s Holyrood election.

Residents Told to Keep Windows and Doors Closed as Crews Battle Ashford Waste Site Fire

Fire crews are still tackling a blaze at a waste site in Ashford, with six fire engines remaining at the scene alongside a height vehicle and a bulk water carrier. Residents have been told to keep windows and doors shut for the rest of the day.

Two Bucks County Men Accused of Plotting ISIS-Inspired Attack in New York City

Federal prosecutors say Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi traveled from Bucks County to a March 7 protest outside Gracie Mansion in New York City and threw two homemade explosive devices that did not detonate. An indictment says dashcam video captured them talking about killing up to 60 people, and investigators say a notebook in their car outlined future vehicle attacks on festivals and parades. Both men are charged with attempting to support a foreign terrorist organization and using a weapon of mass destruction, and both are being held without bail.

Israel’s Political Factions Criticize the U.S.-Iran Ceasefire

Israel’s political camps are unusually united in their criticism of the U.S.-Iran two-week ceasefire. Centre-left figures are blaming Prime Minister Netanyahu, while conservatives are taking aim at President Trump.

Report Says Telegram Hosts Large Organized Abuse Networks in Spain and Italy

A European non-profit, AI Forensics, says it found an ecosystem of abuse operating on Telegram, with users distributing and selling harmful sexual content across borders. The group says this is happening despite the platform’s moderation efforts.

Greek- and Liberian-Flagged Ships First to Transit the Strait of Hormuz Since the Ceasefire

A Greek-owned bulk carrier and a Liberian-flagged vessel appear to be the first ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since Wednesday’s ceasefire, part of a fragile two-week truce.

Focaccia Bread Sold in 10 States, Including Trader Joe’s Brand, Is Recalled

Thousands of cases of focaccia bread sold in New Jersey and several other states are being recalled, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Voi warns it could leave the UK unless ministers set permanent e-scooter rules

One of the UK’s biggest e-scooter operators says it could pull out unless the government replaces the current trial system with clear long-term laws. Voi says the delays are hurting investment, leaving riders on outdated kit, and putting the UK behind Europe, while the Department for Transport says it still plans to regulate e-scooters as soon as possible, with no firm timetable yet.

Four people treated after Dartford house fire

Four people were treated by paramedics after a house fire in Dartford. Enquiries into the cause are under way.

Harry Maguire Rejects Inter Miami Offer to Extend Manchester United Stay

Harry Maguire has turned down an approach from David Beckham’s Inter Miami and signed a one-year contract extension with Manchester United, with an option for another year. Napoli were also interested, but Maguire opted to stay at Old Trafford, where he says the club’s ambition and his role in the squad persuaded him to continue. The 33-year-old has now made 266 appearances for United and will miss the next league match against Leeds through suspension.

UK Warns Russian Hackers Are Targeting Home Internet Routers for Espionage

Britain’s cybersecurity agency says Russian hackers are exploiting widely sold internet routers to collect information for espionage. Experts say the attack could let them steal credentials, send users to fake sites, and potentially reach other devices on the home network, so keeping routers updated and watching for unusual activity matters.

Macron welcomes two French teachers back to Paris after three years in Iranian detention

French teachers Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris have returned to Paris after being held in Iran for three years. They were arrested in May 2022 at the end of a trip their families say was for tourism and later jailed on espionage charges.

Family pays tribute to British teenager killed in Vietnam motorcycle crash

The family of 19-year-old Orla Wates has paid tribute after she died in a motorcycle crash on the Ha Giang loop in northern Vietnam. She died at Viet Duc University Hospital in Hanoi, and her family described her as “beautiful, independent and very funny.”

How Axel Springer is expanding into the US after buying the Telegraph

Axel Springer, led by Mathias Döpfner, is pushing deeper into transatlantic media after its recent purchase of the UK’s Daily Telegraph. The company’s move drew attention after Hungary’s Viktor Orbán was given a prominent opinion slot in Welt am Sonntag, which reportedly irritated some former editors and raised fresh questions about Springer’s direction.

Shell’s oil trading profits jump amid market volatility from the Iran crisis

Shell is expected to report significantly higher first-quarter trading profits, with earnings from its commodity desks projected to rise to between $200 million and $700 million. The boost comes after weeks of volatile energy markets linked to the Iran crisis, though Qatar-related strikes have also hit gas output.

South Korea Says North Korea Fired Several Short-Range Missiles Over Two Days

South Korea’s military says North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles toward the East Sea on Wednesday, marking the second missile launch in two days.

FTSE 100 Surges 3% as Markets Ease Rate-Hike Bets After US-Iran Ceasefire

Global markets rallied after Washington and Tehran agreed a two-week ceasefire, easing fears of a wider conflict. The FTSE 100 rose about 3%, with oil prices falling sharply and traders scaling back expectations for Bank of England and ECB rate hikes. Travel, aviation and banking stocks gained, while energy shares fell as investors waited for more certainty on whether the ceasefire will hold and whether the Strait of Hormuz stays open.

Five Teenagers to Stand Trial in Sweden Over Attempted Murder of an Iranian Dissident

Five teenagers in Sweden are set to go on trial over the attempted murder of an Iranian dissident. Sweden’s security service says Iran has increased its targeting of dissidents since the start of the Iran war, and accuses it of using organized crime groups to carry out violence on Swedish soil.

Oil Prices Fall Sharply After U.S.-Iran Ceasefire

Oil prices dropped below $100 a barrel after the United States and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire that includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Markets are still cautious, but the immediate supply panic has eased for now.

Louvre Prepares Major Restoration of Dozens of Rubens Paintings

The Louvre in Paris is preparing an ambitious restoration project to repair dozens of centuries-old paintings by Peter Paul Rubens. The aim is to save the Flemish masterpieces from further deterioration.

Starmer to visit the Middle East after US and Iran agree to a ceasefire

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the ceasefire deal between the US and Iran and says the UK will do all it can to support and sustain it. He is due to visit the Middle East next.

Rory McIlroy hosts record-cost Masters Champions Dinner as Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson miss it

Rory McIlroy hosted the Masters Champions Dinner at Augusta National, with Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson both absent. The 2025 menu set a tournament record at $318 per person, featuring dishes from elk sliders and tuna carpaccio to wagyu filet and salmon, plus a 1989 Chateau d’Yquem for dessert. McIlroy said he wanted to make sure the missing champions were still acknowledged.

Keir Starmer travels to the Gulf after the US and Iran agree a two-week ceasefire

Keir Starmer is heading to the Gulf to meet regional leaders and discuss efforts to support and sustain the US-Iran ceasefire. The talks are also expected to focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.