World news

Bolivia declares state of emergency over blockade crisis

Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz declared a state of emergency on Saturday amid worsening roadblock protests that have disrupted the nation since April. The declaration allows military deployment to restore order and protect the flow of essential goods. Protesting groups, aligned with former president Evo Morales, continue to hinder access to key roads, exacerbating the crisis.

SBS News – World · 2 hours ago

Trump's $14.6 million Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool turns green from algae

The $14.6 million renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, led by former President Trump, has resulted in algae growth and discoloration. Reports reveal that the water has turned green despite Trump's claims of a successful makeover. Critics cite that shallow, non-circulating pools create conditions conducive to algae, reflecting ongoing debates about the restoration's effectiveness.

SBS News – World · 5 hours ago

James Burrows, legendary director of Cheers and Friends, dies aged 85

James Burrows, the legendary director known for creating Cheers and directing Friends, died at age 85. Burrows directed over 1,000 episodes of iconic sitcoms and won 11 Emmy Awards throughout his 50-year career. His passing leaves a significant void in the television and comedy world, as tributes from stars highlight his immense impact on the industry.

BBC News – World · 5 hours ago

African and Caribbean nations call for formal apology for transatlantic slavery

African and Caribbean nations demanded formal apologies and reparations for transatlantic slavery at a conference in Ghana. Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama emphasized the need for responsibility, while a 19-point reparations plan was established. This follows a UN resolution declaring the slave trade the 'gravest crime against humanity,' which garnered 123 votes in favor.

BBC News – World · 5 hours ago

Australia confirms first H5N1 bird flu case in Cape Le Grand Park

Australia confirmed its first case of H5N1 bird flu, detected in a brown skua on a beach in Cape Le Grand National Park, as of Saturday. This marks the strain's reach to every continent, with Agriculture Minister Julie Collins acknowledging the reality of bird flu presence. Authorities continue monitoring for further cases in local wildlife.

BBC News – World · 5 hours ago

US men's soccer team defeats Australia 2-0, advances to knockout round

The US men's soccer team defeated Australia 2-0 on Tuesday, securing a spot in the World Cup knockout round. Celebrations erupted in Seattle, where fans donned team colors to show their support. The victory marks a significant moment for American soccer as excitement builds for the next stage of the tournament.

BBC News – World · 5 hours ago

Israel and Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire as US-Iran deal under strain

Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire on Friday, following a deadly flare-up that left 47 dead in Lebanon and four Israeli soldiers killed. The US brokered the truce amid a strained US-Iran deal, as Israeli airstrikes continued to target Hezbollah. Ongoing discussions are needed to maintain the fragile peace and disarm Hezbollah.

SBS News – World · 12 hours ago

Zelensky stripped of highest Polish honour over WW2 name of army unit

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky was stripped of Poland's Order of the White Eagle honor after Kyiv named a military unit in tribute to the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, which Poland associates with wartime atrocities. Polish President Karol Nawrocki condemned the decision as disgraceful, asserting it threatens trust between the nations while emphasizing continued support for Ukraine against Russia.

BBC News – World · 12 hours ago

Israel's political future may come down to this one showdown

Israel is set to hold a pivotal election later this year that could redefine its political landscape. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing a corruption trial and internal coalition tensions, must navigate his government's fragility against a united opposition. This election is widely seen as a referendum on Netanyahu’s leadership in the wake of recent conflicts.

SBS News – World · 13 hours ago

Pétanque player, 68, dies after being 'hit in head with metal boule'

A 68-year-old pétanque player died after being allegedly struck on the head with a metal boule during a dispute in Mimizan, France, on June 17. An 81-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident, which escalated from a heated argument over playing locations. Investigations into the confrontation are ongoing.

BBC News – World · 15 hours ago

Israel and Hezbollah agree ceasefire, US says, as more Lebanon strikes reported

Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire after intense Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon, which killed 47 people. The US confirmed the ceasefire, though an Israeli military spokesperson stated operations would continue. Despite the announcement, skepticism remains among displaced Lebanese citizens regarding Israel's commitment to peace.

BBC News – World · 15 hours ago

US terminates HIV funding for South Africa amid Afrikaner community claims

The US government will terminate funding for South Africa's HIV programs, citing the country's alleged failure to protect the Afrikaner community. More than eight million South Africans live with HIV, and previously, the US provided $400 million annually through the President's Emergency Fund for Aids Relief. South Africa's health ministry is working on plans for self-reliance despite.

BBC News – World · 16 hours ago

Six-year-old Ebola patient taken from DR Congo hospital found and 'doing well'

A six-year-old Ebola patient taken from a hospital in Butembo, DR Congo, has been found and is now stable. Armed men abducted her and her mother on Monday. The ongoing outbreak has claimed over 230 lives, prompting fears and distrust among local communities regarding Ebola treatment centers.

BBC News – World · 19 hours ago

Meloni criticizes Trump for 'made-up' claims about G7 encounter

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized former President Donald Trump for claiming she 'begged' him for a photo at the G7 summit. Meloni called his remarks 'made-up' and expressed disbelief over his behavior towards allies. The incident reflects a deterioration of their previously close relationship amid rising tensions over U.S. foreign policy.

BBC News – World · 20 hours ago

Mangione's lawyers reverse course on psychiatric defence in state murder trial

Luigi Mangione's lawyers will no longer pursue a psychiatric defence in his state murder trial for the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The reversal occurred ahead of a Thursday deadline for evidence submission. Mangione has pleaded not guilty and faces additional federal charges that could lead to a maximum life sentence.

BBC News – World · 20 hours ago

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi to stand trial for rape

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi will stand trial for rape, confirmed by French prosecutors. The 27-year-old Paris St-Germain defender faces accusations related to an incident in 2023 involving a 24-year-old woman at his home. Hakimi, who denies the allegations, expressed hope for the trial to present his side of the story.

BBC News – World · 20 hours ago

Twelve-year-old Markos Abaye earns praise for rescuing sick chicken

Twelve-year-old Markos Abaye captured hearts in Ethiopia after he attempted to check his sick chicken into a human hospital on September 1. A TikTok video of his heartfelt actions garnered 770,000 views, prompting a local poultry company to offer him 100 chickens and farming training. Markos' bond with his chicken reflects deep compassion and love for animals.

BBC News – World · 20 hours ago

Israeli airstrikes kill 18 Lebanese civilians in retaliation for soldier deaths

Eighteen Lebanese civilians died during Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon on Friday. The strikes were a response to the deaths of four Israeli soldiers, prompting National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir's threat that 'Lebanon must burn.' This violence escalates amid tensions following a recent US-Iran deal intended to pause fighting in the region.

SBS News – World · 22 hours ago

Billionaire Ambani's Jio announces what could be India's biggest share sale

Jio Platforms, the telecom arm of billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries, announced India's potential largest share sale, seeking to raise around $4 billion. Ambani stated that the listing will showcase India's ability to build globally significant technology companies. The IPO is anticipated to rejuvenate interest in India's capital markets following recent market volatility.

BBC News – World · 23 hours ago

At least 18 killed in Lebanon air strikes amid escalating violence

At least 18 people were killed in southern Lebanon after Israeli air strikes, according to the Lebanese health ministry. The Israeli military claimed four soldiers were killed by Hezbollah in response to its operations targeting the group. The violence follows a US-Iran agreement aimed at ceasing hostilities in the region.

BBC News – World · 1 day ago

US-Iran talks in Switzerland postponed hours after Vance trip cancelled

US-Iran talks in Switzerland were postponed following the cancellation of Vice President JD Vance's trip, a White House spokesperson confirmed. The planned negotiations aimed to address issues including Iran's nuclear program, with no new date announced for the discussions. Switzerland remains prepared to facilitate the talks, with preparatory work ongoing in Burgenstock.

SBS News – World · 1 day ago

Zimbabwe MPs pass bill to extend president's time in power

Zimbabwe's lower house of parliament passed a bill on Thursday to extend presidential terms from five to seven years, enabling President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030. Two hundred sixteen lawmakers supported the draft, while forty-two opposed. The bill eliminates direct presidential elections, allowing future presidents to be chosen by parliament.

BBC News – World · 1 day ago

Andy Burnham wins Makerfield seat, positions himself to challenge Starmer

Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, won a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, positioning himself to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour leadership. Burnham secured 24,927 votes, significantly outpacing the second-place candidate from the Reform UK party. His victory adds pressure on Starmer amid declining popularity ratings, as Labour grapples with leadership challenges.

SBS News – World · 1 day ago

In Trump's shadow, Vance becomes face of Iran deal

Vice-President JD Vance defended the US-Iran deal at a White House press briefing on Thursday amid discontent from Republicans. Vance dismissed claims that President Trump intended to cast him as a scapegoat for the agreement, stating, 'I think the president was joking.' He faces challenges as he navigates a divided party on the issue.

BBC News – World · 1 day ago

US-Iran talks postponed as Vance pulls out of Switzerland trip

US-Iran talks scheduled for Switzerland have been postponed after Vice-President JD Vance withdrew from the trip. The White House cited logistical challenges, while preparations for future discussions continue. The negotiations were set to address a recent agreement on Iran's nuclear program and a $300 billion reconstruction.

BBC News – World · 1 day ago