Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Israel and the Palestinians: Blinken's Jerusalem visit offers few solutions

The US secretary of state says "concrete steps" are needed to reduce violence but does not elaborate.

Myanmar: Air strikes have become a deadly new tactic in the civil war

The regime increasingly uses air strikes to crush resistance that emerged after the coup two years ago.

Migrant protest at New York hotel highlights growing issue

Some people sheltering at a Manhattan hotel refuse to move to a different facility, citing poor conditions.

Auckland weather: Flood-hit region suffers more heavy rain

Only days after deadly floods killed four in Auckland, severe weather once again hit the region.

Floating pirate-themed restaurant sinks off Thailand coast

Eyewitnesses reported the vessel slowly sinking in rough water in Pattaya Bay.

Pope in DR Congo: 'Hands off Africa' says Pope Francis in Kinshasa speech

Pope Francis gave a speech where he spoke of the centuries of exploitation faced by the country.

Monday, January 30, 2023

Organ donation: 'My daughter was shot but lives on in those she saved'

Could the shooting of a six-year-old girl spark change in India where organ donation is rare?

LGBT people hunted by gangs and police in Egypt

A BBC News investigation reveals how violent gangs are abusing LGBT community members they meet online.

Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro has applied for US visa

The ex-president, currently staying in Florida, wants to "enjoy being a tourist", his lawyer says.

Swedish flag burnt in Jakarta amid Turkey Nato row

Indonesia is the latest country to see anti-Sweden protests, after a Quran burning in Stockholm.

Sunday, January 29, 2023

Man rescued after crashing stolen police car on train tracks in Georgia

The suspect jumped into a police vehicle during a traffic stop in the US city of Atlanta.

Ukraine war: Funeral held for battleground body collector

Denys Sosnenko was was killed by an anti-tank mine while helping to recover the remains of soldiers.

The new tech offering relief from the misery of period pain

Two start-up firms are making wearable technology that targets menstrual discomfort.

Erdogan says Turkey may block Sweden's Nato membership bid

The president said he would not support Sweden's bid until it extradited dozens of "terrorists".

Tyre Nichols' lawyer urges lawmakers to pass urgent police reforms

Ben Crump urged lawmakers to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in Nichols' memory.

Australian Open 2023: Novak Djokovic beats Stefanos Tsitsipas in Melbourne final

Novak Djokovic wins a record-extending 10th Australian Open and a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam men's title by seeing off Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Iran 'foils drone attack' on military facility in Isfahan

The defence ministry said three drones were involved, but there was only minor damage to the site.

Saturday, January 28, 2023

New US childhood obesity guidelines criticised by families

Some families worry that new guidelines from US paediatricians prioritise surgery and intensive therapy.

Nigeria floods: Songs and testimonies from a drowning world

Portraits of communities devastated by the worst recorded floods in Nigeria.

Television frontman Tom Verlaine dies at 73

His band rose to fame in the 1970s New York punk scene, scoring UK hits including Marquee Moon.

Tyre Nichols: Police unit is disbanded after death

The so-called Scorpion special unit will be disbanded after its officers were seen beating Mr Nichols.

Pilot dies in Indian army jet mid-air collision

The planes were on a routine "operational flying training mission" when the incident happened.

Friday, January 27, 2023

The Somali funk spirit that has overcome anarchy and exile

Somalia's music scene is booming once again after years of conflict and Islamist threats.

Community reckons with police killing by black officers

All five officers involved in Tyre Nichols' death were black. Experts say that's not unusual.

Bodycam footage shows moment of Paul Pelosi attack

A US court authorised the release of video from the October 2020 assault on Nancy Pelosi's husband.

Ukraine war: UN accuses Russia of breaking child protection rules over refugees

Moscow is accused of giving refugees Russian passports and allowing them to be adopted.

US to make it easier for gay men to donate blood

The FDA will soon remove a three month abstinence policy for donations for men who have sex with men.

Colorado bear poses for roughly 400 'selfies' on wildlife camera

One motion-detecting camera captured roughly 400 images of the surprise selfie star.

Seven shot dead at Jerusalem synagogue

The victims are shot dead in a suspected militant attack at a synagogue in East Jerusalem.

Who is Jeff Zients, Biden's new chief of staff? 

The former Covid czar returns to one of the most powerful jobs in the US government.

Thursday, January 26, 2023

Czech Republic: Second round of presidential election

Former PM Andrej Babis and retired Nato general Petr Pavel are vying for the ceremonial but influential post.

Truck attacker guilty of killing 8 on NYC bike path

The Uzbekistan native may face the death penalty for what was the city's deadliest terrorist attack since 9/11.

Spain church attacks: Suspect was facing deportation

A 25-year-old Moroccan is detained after a church caretaker is killed and a priest injured.

They sold a Picasso to flee the Nazis - now their heirs want it back

In 1938, Woman Ironing was sold to escape Germany. Now the heirs of the original owner want it back.

Tennessee official 'sickened' by footage of Tyre Nichols arrest

Tyre Nichols, 29, was stopped in Memphis on 7 January for reckless driving and died three days later.

US hacks back against Hive ransomware crew

The US Department of Justice says its operation against the cyber gang was a 21st Century stakeout.

Egypt archaeology: Gold-covered mummy among latest discoveries

The mummy was found inside a sarcophagus that has remained unopened for 4,300 years.

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

What you need to know about the US classified documents saga

Mike Pence, Joe Biden and Donald Trump have all kept classified documents from their time in office.

Donald Trump to be allowed back onto Facebook and Instagram

The social media firm Meta said the former US president's suspension will end "in the coming weeks".

Ros Atkins on… Germany’s Ukraine tank decision

The BBC's Analysis Editor examines the background to Germany’s decision to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine.

Texas hit by extreme weather as storms sweep the US

Houston, Texas was battered by a powerful storm on Tuesday as severe weather hit the Gulf Coast.

Virginia school had three warnings about 6-year-old with gun, says lawyer

Teacher Abigail Zwerner was left with serious injuries after being shot in her classroom.

Burkina Faso unrest: France agrees to pull its troops out

Burkina Faso wants to defend itself against jihadists, who have forced two million from their homes.

Andrew Tate claims case against him 'empty'

Tate says there is "no justice in Romania" as he is taken for police questioning at a special unit.

Michelle Yeoh: Chinese fans rejoice at Oscar nomination

If she wins, Yeoh will become the first Asian woman to win Best Actress.

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern's last day as prime minister

Before handing over to Chris Hipkins, Jacinda Ardern attended an annual gathering of politicians and Maori elders in Rātana.

Justin Bieber sells rights to songs for $200m

The pop star joins a growing group of artists who have cashed out on their catalogues.

Ukraine war: British pair killed trying 'humanitarian evacuation'

Chris Parry and Andrew Bagshaw were killed in Soledar, eastern Ukraine, the Parry family says.

Tanks for Ukraine: Germany to send Leopard 2s and allow others to export - reports

Germany has been under pressure over its reluctance to send the battle tanks to Ukraine.

Monday, January 23, 2023

Monterey Park shooting: Who were the victims?

The 10 people killed in the Monterey Park dance hall shooting were all in their 50s, 60s or 70s.

Swedish PM in hot water over eel fishing scandal

Ulf Kristersson is criticised after hiring an aide who had broken poaching laws and misled police.

Razzie nominations: Marilyn Monroe biopic Blonde leads with eight

The biopic about Marilyn Monroe gets eight nominations, while actor Tom Hanks gets three.

Sunday, January 22, 2023

Pakistan power cut: Major cities without electricity after grid breakdown

It happened after power grids were turned on in the morning, the power minister said.

Covid: Thailand tourism up but still below pre-pandemic level

The holiday destination is set to start charging overseas visitors $9.20 each from the start of June.

The ancient trees at the heart of a case against the Crown

An indigenous community in Canada is suing for their land - and using unusual evidence in their case.

Spain gang bust: Ukrainians exploited in illegal tobacco operation

Spanish police say Ukrainian refugees worked long hours to mass-produce counterfeit cigarettes.

Police surround white van after Monterey Park shooting

Aerial video shows a vehicle which may hold the suspect after 10 people were shot dead in Monterey Park.

Saturday, January 21, 2023

Actor Jeremy Renner broke over 30 bones in snow plough accident

The Avengers star shares an update on his recovery after being critically injured on New Year's Day.

How Ukraine war led to a new Indian beer in Poland

Two Indians turned a crisis into opportunity when they were stuck with a shipment of rice flakes.

How eating oysters could help protect the coast

Restaurants in New Orleans are recycling their oyster shells in an effort to protect the Louisiana coastline.

Tennessee fires officials after damning death penalty report

The lethal injection is under increased scrutiny after a series of botched executions in several states.

Lunar New Year: How the world celebrated

Fireworks and lanterns in the street start the 2023 celebrations for one of the world's biggest festivals.

Dolphins seen in Bronx River for first time in five years

Authorities keep the Bronx River in south-east New York City stocked with a plentiful supply of fish.

Friday, January 20, 2023

Japan was the future but it's stuck in the past

The so-called lost decade has now stretched to three. What went wrong, asks Rupert Wingfield-Hayes.

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes attempted to flee US, prosecutors claim

According to a new court filing, the 38-year-old bought a one-way ticket to Mexico last January.

Ukrainian soldiers receive bionic arms

After losing their hands in a landmine explosion, Andrii and Vitalii receive 3D printed prosthetics.

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Ukraine war: Allies to meet as Kyiv requests tank donations

Talks will focus on military aid, with pressure on Germany to allow Ukraine its Leopard tanks.

Jacinda Ardern: New Zealand PM says no regrets over decision to step down

New Zealand's leader says she has a "sense of relief" as her party prepares to anoint a successor.

FAA outage: US airline regulators blame contractor for travel chaos

The US airline regulator says a contractor is responsible for delaying and cancelling thousands of flights.

Australia's 'Toadzilla': Record-breaking cane toad found in Queensland

The cane toad, weighing in at 2.7kg, is six times bigger than the average specimen.

Africa's week in pictures: 13-19 January 2023

A selection of the best photos from across Africa this week.

US rock legend David Crosby dies aged 81

Crosby, who co-founded both the Byrds and Crosby, Stills and Nash, had been ill for some time.

The California storms were great for wine

After years of drought, vineyards got a much-needed infusion of water from weeks of torrential rain.

Ukraine war: Serbia uproar over Wagner mercenaries recruiting for Russia

A Russian news video showing Serbians being trained to fight in Ukraine prompts fury in Belgrade.

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Croatia, the euro and a coffee controversy - but is it all just froth?

Croatia switched to the euro on 1 January, but many feel businesses are taking advantage by hiking their prices.

France strikes bid to halt Macron's rise in retirement age

Planned reforms by President Macron would raise the retirement age to 64 - a hugely unpopular move.

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

Netflix offers pay of up to $385,000 for flight attendant

The firm says the role on its private jets requires "discretion and outstanding customer service skills".

Nobel Laureate Maria Ressa cleared of tax evasion

The acquittal of the journalist and Nobel Laureate has been hailed as a win for press freedom.

FTX: Collapsed crypto exchange says $415m was hacked

Last week the company told a bankruptcy judge in Delaware that it had recovered over $5bn in assets.

Nigeria elections 2023: How influencers are secretly paid by political parties

Nigerian politicians are hiring social media influencers to spread disinformation ahead of February's elections.

Golden Globes: Several celebrities announce Covid days after awards

A number of celebrities who attended this year's awards test positive for Covid-19 days later.

Itaewon crowd crush: Official response feeds sense of injustice and mistrust

Relatives say authorities are responding to the disaster in a cold and indifferent way.

Census in India: Baffling lack of data is hurting Indians

The government blames Covid for the delay in new data, which is now hitting crucial policy areas.

Italian Pier Antonio Panzeri held in EU-Qatargate bribery probe agrees to tell all

The former EU lawmaker is accused of being a leader of a criminal network which took Qatari bribes.

Monday, January 16, 2023

Australian Open bans Russian and Belarusian flags from tournament

Organisers announced the flags would be banned, effective immediately, after a courtside incident.

Putin is weaponising food, says boss of fertiliser giant Yara

The boss of Yara says Russia's invasion of Ukraine has driven up the price of fertilisers and food.

What does Andrew Tate promise his followers?

The controversial influencer has been detained in Romania as part of a human trafficking and rape investigation.

California shooting: Baby among six others killed in Goshen

Police say six people, including the baby's 17-year-old mother, were killed in a targeted attack.

Eiffel Tower lights up in support of women protesting in Iran

The Paris landmark displays the message "Femme, Vie, Liberte" in French meaning "Women, Life, Freedom".

Andrew Tate: Brothers' luxury cars are seized by Romanian police

Romanian officials were seen towing vehicles away from his compound in Bucharest.

Sunday, January 15, 2023

Mursal Nabizada: Gunmen kill former Afghan MP at home in Kabul

Ms Nabizada was an MP until the government was overthrown by the Taliban in August 2021.

Lab-grown alternatives aim to cut palm oil dependence

Two biotech firms have developed oils made from yeast as a replacement for palm.

Can humanity's new giant leap into space succeed?

Humanity is set for its next big leap into space with nations and private companies racing to build outposts on other worlds

Lützerath: German police oust climate activists after clashes near coal mine

Riot police remove protesters trying to stop the expansion of a coal mine in western Germany.

Suspected jihadists abduct 50 women in northern Burkina Faso

People in Arbinda say two groups of women were taken while out gathering food because of severe shortages.

Woman rescued from rubble of Ukrainian building

A woman is rescued from the debris of a building in Dnipro, a day after it was hit by a Russian missile strike.

Saturday, January 14, 2023

Jesus baptism site makeover aims to draw a million Christians in 2030

As pilgrims mark Epiphany, Jordan plans an ambitious project to upgrade place of Jesus's baptism.

Your pictures on the theme of 'open doors'

A selection of striking images from our readers around the world.

Over 80,000 Israelis protest against Supreme Court reform

Demonstrators in Tel Aviv say government plans to overhaul the judiciary would be an attack on democracy.

Thousands of Israelis hold legal reforms protest in Tel Aviv

Organisers have accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of undermining democratic rule.

Russia fires new waves of missiles at Ukraine and hits energy infrastructure

Several cities were struck, including Dnipro, where an apartment block was hit killing at least five.

California's hydro-climate whiplash explained

From droughts and wildfires to floods and landslides - why extreme weather may be the new norm.

Friday, January 13, 2023

Who can die? Canada wrestles with euthanasia for the mentally ill

Canadians with mental illness could soon qualify for assisted death. It's ignited debate in the country.

Lisa Marie to be buried next to son at Graceland

The singer was the only child of the "King of Rock 'n' Roll", Elvis Presley.

US renames five places that used racist slur for Native Americans

The move is part of wider efforts to remove the derogatory term from hundreds of geographic sites.

Lützerath: Greta Thunberg joins German coal mine protests

The Swedish climate activist joined coal mine protesters in the German village of Lützerath.

COP28: Why has an oil boss been chosen to head climate summit?

The UAE has named state oil company chief Sultan Al Jaber as president of the UN climate conference.

Thursday, January 12, 2023

India targets China's dominance in mobile phones

There's some way to go, but India hopes to build its own world-class mobile phone industry.

Does easing US inflation point the way for the world?

It may be good news for the rest of the world if price increases in the US continue to slow.

Lisa Marie Presley hospitalised after heart attack, US media says

The singer, who is rock legend Elvis's only child, was reportedly found unresponsive at her LA home.

Biden documents: Who is the special counsel in the Biden probe?

Robert K Hur is a seasoned prosecutor and trial lawyer with ties to the Donald Trump administration.

Harry book: Prince William asked by reporter if he has read Spare

William and Catherine were on their first public outing since Prince Harry's tell-all book went on sale.

Green comet approaching Earth for first time in 50,000 years

Scientists say the bright green comet will be visible in the night sky for almost a month.

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

Surendran Pattel: The US judge who once made cigarettes in India

Surendran K Pattel's inspiring rise from a life of grinding poverty has made headlines in India.

Nigeria's cash crunch: Hunting out savings from under mattresses

Why Africa's most-populous country is introducing new bank notes weeks before an election.

Jill Biden: US first lady undergoes surgery to remove cancerous skin lesions

The lesions were consistent with basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer.

Supermodel Tatjana Patitz dies at 56

Tatjana Patitz, one of the 1990's most prominent supermodels, died in California.

Why did FAA ground flights across the US?

The disruption was caused by a glitch in an air safety tool called Notice to Air Missions or Notam.

Afghanistan: Deadly suicide bombing outside foreign ministry

Police said at least five civilians had been killed but another Taliban official put the toll as high as 20.

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

House of the Vettii: Pompeii home owned by former slaves reopens

The house, featuring erotic art and bronze statues, was the epitome of wealth in ancient times.

Cardinal George Pell dies aged 81

Cardinal George Pell, whose conviction on child abuse charges shocked the Catholic Church before being quashed, dies at 81.

Why Americans seem more pro-Harry than Brits

In the US, Harry and Meghan have found a more welcoming audience, our North America editor writes.

Olivier Vandecasteele: Belgian aid worker sentenced to 40 years in Iran

Olivier Vandecasteele is convicted of espionage and other charges, which Belgium says are fabricated.

Brazil Congress riot: Conditions of detainees come under scrutiny

About 1,000 people are still being held and questioned in connection with the 8 December riots.

Soledar: Video shows fighting and tank fire in pounded Ukraine salt mine town

Reuters obtained footage showing the past few days in the town, which Russia looks set to capture

Monday, January 9, 2023

Disney boss calls for workers to return to office four days a week

From the start of March employees will be asked to be in the office from Monday to Thursday.

Brazil Congress: How police failed to stop the protest

President Lula has questioned police actions in failing to prevent the storming of government buildings.

Brazil protests: Artwork suffers damage beyond repair

Brazil mourns the loss of key parts of its artistic collection damaged by rioters.

Sunday, January 8, 2023

Lützerath: German coal mine stand off amid Ukraine war energy crunch

Activists and police are facing off in Lützerath, where diggers plan to expand a giant coal mine.

Brazil ex-president's supporters smash top court's windows

The moment supporters of Brazil's far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro storm the Supreme Court.

Inside Brazil's stormed presidential palace

Bolsonaro supporters wearing Brazilian colours wave flags and cheer after invading the building.

Himachal Pradesh: Thousands despair as India Adani plants shut down

Many locals in India's Himachal Pradesh state say that they have lost their only source of income.

Video shows Brazil Supreme Court mass break-in

Dozens of far-right demonstrators can be seen inside the court building with large crowds outside.

Damar Hamlin: Buffalo Bills make stirring pre-match display in support of safety

The Buffalo Bills make an emotional show of support for Damar Hamlin in their first NFL game since the safety suffered a cardiac arrest on the field.

Saturday, January 7, 2023

Flight PS752: Families of victims met with harassment from Iran

Canadian intelligence is probing "hostile state actors" who are intimidating Iranian dissidents.

Damar Hamlin thanks fans for their 'overwhelming' love

The Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs show support for Damar Hamlin before the first NFL game since the Buffalo Bills safety collapsed.

Fan outrage at Susan Meachen, the romance novelist accused of faking her death

The drama surrounding author Susan Meachen's alleged death hoax is stranger than fiction.

Ukraine war: The ceasefire that never happened

Shellfire and attacks have taken place in the town of Bakhmut on Orthodox Christmas, despite ceasefire claims.

Ana Montes: Top spy freed in US after more than 20 years

Ana Montes was described as being among "the most damaging spies" ever caught by the US.

Black Star Line: 50,000 descend on Ghana for diaspora festival

The Black Star Line Festival concluded on Saturday with a festival featuring international stars.

Sam Mendes: Gender-neutral Oscars 'inevitable'

The film director tells Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg he has "total sympathy" with the idea.

Friday, January 6, 2023

Dramatic moments from a week of chaos in Congress

The vote for House Speaker has offered a unique glimpse of behind-the-scenes action.

Are tech job cuts a warning for the wider economy?

A question mark hangs over whether job cuts seen in the tech sector will spread further as the economy slows.

Ukraine war: What does facial recognition software make of Putin’s backdrop crowd?

There's been speculation public meetings with President Putin have been staged.

In photos: Severe cold wave grips north India

The drop in temperature has caused disruptions to rail, air and road transport across Indian states.

McDonald's leaves Kazakhstan over supply shortages

It is understood access to certain products has become difficult due to sanctions against Russia.

Thursday, January 5, 2023

California hit with record-breaking rain and flooding

Northern California is facing an atmospheric river bringing heavy wind, rain and flooding.

Kevin McCarthy loses historic 11th vote for US House Speaker

The deadlock will continue into a fourth day, since no business can go ahead until a speaker is picked.

Flying boats and other tech for cleaner shipping

The shipping industry is experimenting with foils, sails and fuel to make itself less carbon intensive.

Tunisha Sharma: The Indian actress whose death set off a storm

Tunisha Sharma's suspected suicide and the subsequent arrest of her ex have trigged a media frenzy.

William and Harry: Royal brothers through the years

From birth, the royal brother's lives have been closely watched from around the world.

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

William Singer: US college admissions architect will go to jail

Prosecutors say William Singer helped pay more than $7m in bribes to coaches at elite US colleges.

Sri Lanka crisis: Parents forced to pick which child can go to school

The economic crisis may no longer make headlines but it has a devastating effect on education.

Mexico prison break: Mourning for guards killed in attack

Twenty-six people were killed in total after a prison break in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, on Sunday.

China Covid: EU officials 'strongly' urge testing for travel

Travel in and out of China gets easier from Sunday, as it moves away from its zero-Covid strategy.

California declares emergency as massive storm slams into coast

The storm is expected to bring deadly flooding, landsides, and power outages affecting millions.

Makiivka attack: Could mobile phones have revealed Russian location?

Russia says mobile phone signals gave their troops' position away before a Ukrainian attack.

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Monday, January 2, 2023

Jeremy Renner: Avengers actor out of surgery but still in critical condition

The actor suffered blunt chest trauma and orthopaedic injuries in a snow plough accident at his home.

César film awards ban nominees investigated for sexual violence

The César Awards brings in the rule after fears there could be protests at the event next month.

US golfer's Masters invite sent to wrong person

US golfer Scott Stallings is handed a shock after discovering his Masters invitation has been sent to another person of the same name.

Russia plans to 'exhaust' Ukraine with prolonged attacks - Zelensky

Ukraine's president says Moscow aims to exhaust his country with a prolonged wave of drone strikes.

Ancient Egyptian 'Green Coffin' returned to Cairo by US

The brightly painted wooden sarcophagus was smuggled to the US by a global art trafficking network.

Sunday, January 1, 2023

Dubai scraps 30% alcohol tax and licence fee in apparent bid to boost tourism

It will also stop charging for personal alcohol licences - something anyone who intends to drink needs to carry.

Dozens escape Mexican jail in deadly attack

Suspected members of a drug cartel pull up in armoured vehicles and open fire on prison guards.

Russia-Ukraine war: Drone attacks continue on Kyiv and eastern Ukraine

Air raid sirens sound shortly before midnight as the latest in a wave of attacks by Russia over the New Year period begins.

Surfer creates island eco-haven with ancient knowhow

How the purchase of a plot of land on Panama's coast set a surfer on a journey towards reforestation.

Crowds celebrate in Brazil as Lula sworn in as president

Brazil's new president travelled in an open-topped car and waved to people lining the streets.

Czechoslovakia: Czechs and Slovaks mark 30 years since Velvet Divorce

Thirty years since their break-up, Slovakia and the Czech Republic have a harmonious relationship.

The sermon that became Amazing Grace

The hymn Amazing Grace started life as a sermon written by a former slave ship captain.

Grammy-winning singer Anita Pointer dies aged 74

She was a member of the Pointer Sisters, the 70s band whose hits included Jump (For My Love) and Fire.