Prosecutors in Sir Jeffrey Donaldson sex abuse trial told the jury the alleged abuse can no longer be ignored. Defence argues jury must
News

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson sex abuse trial prosecution urges jury to convict

Court hears final arguments The jury at Newry Crown Court has heard closing arguments in the trial of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson. He faces multiple sex abuse charges involving two women…

Three people have been arrested in South Wales after UK authorities seized 12 tonnes of cannabis worth £139m in a major international drug trafficking investigation.
Crime and Justice

Three Arrested After £139m Cannabis Seizure in Record UK Drug Bust

Massive cannabis shipment stopped before reaching UK port Authorities have arrested three people in south Wales after one of the largest cannabis seizures ever recorded in the UK, valued at…

Thames Water Rescue Deal Faces Government Objection, Moves Closer to Nationalisation Government Raises Concerns Over Rescue Plan The UK government has rejected key parts of a proposed £10bn rescue plan for Thames Water, pushing the company closer to possible nationalisation. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds informed the regulator that the deal, backed by the firm’s lenders, does not meet the required standards for customers or environmental protection. She warned that the proposal could shift too much cost onto customers and delay urgent upgrades to infrastructure and environmental systems. Financial Struggles and Debt Pressure Thames Water, the UK’s largest water supplier, serves around 16 million people across London and parts of southern England. The company has been under pressure for years due to rising debt, poor infrastructure, and repeated environmental failures. Its total debt stands at nearly £20bn. A group of creditors has proposed writing off £9.4bn of that debt and injecting new funding to stabilise the business. Details of the Proposed Rescue Plan The lender group, operating under the name London & Valley Water, has suggested a package that includes about £3.35bn in equity funding and a £6.55bn debt facility. The plan is designed to support operations through 2030. In return, creditors are seeking reduced regulatory pressure, including softer penalties for pollution breaches and more flexible performance standards. Government Opposition and Key Risks The government has expressed three main concerns. First, it believes customers may end up paying unfairly high costs. Second, it fears delays to essential investment in ageing infrastructure. Third, it warns that environmental improvements could be pushed further back. Officials also said they are prepared for all possible outcomes, including temporary public ownership if the company fails. Environmental and Service Record Thames Water has faced repeated criticism for sewage spills, leaking pipes, and poor service performance. In May last year, the company received a record £122.7m fine from the regulator Ofwat for breaching rules on pollution and shareholder payouts. Creditor Response The creditor consortium argues that its plan offers the fastest and most stable route to fixing the company. They insist it would improve services without requiring taxpayer money and without increasing customer bills beyond current regulatory limits. They also warn that moving to a special administration process could slow down recovery and worsen long-term outcomes.
News

Thames Water Rescue Deal Faces Government Objection, Moves Closer to Nationalisation

Government Raises Concerns Over Rescue Plan The UK government has rejected key parts of a proposed £10bn rescue plan for Thames Water, pushing the company closer to possible nationalisation. Environment…

Williams Sisters Secure Wimbledon Doubles Wildcard Return Serena and Venus set for SW19 comeback Serena Williams and Venus Williams are set to return to Wimbledon together after receiving a wildcard entry for the women’s doubles event. The American sisters will compete again at the All England Club, where they have built a strong legacy over the years. Singles wildcard spots remain limited Neither Serena nor Venus has been included in the singles wildcard list so far. However, one spot is still available, leaving the door slightly open for further announcements before the tournament begins. Serena Williams continues comeback journey Serena Williams, now 44, recently returned to competitive tennis at Queen’s. Her appearance came four years after what many believed was her final professional match at the 2022 US Open. She continued her comeback in Berlin this week, partnering with Karolina Muchova. The pair lost 6-4, 6-4 to Giuliana Olmos and Erin Routliffe, who are experienced doubles specialists. Serena has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, including seven at Wimbledon. She also shares six Wimbledon doubles titles with Venus. Venus Williams still active in doubles Venus Williams, 45, has struggled in singles this season, losing all seven matches she has played. She has shown stronger form in doubles, including a win alongside Britain’s Katie Boulter at the Madrid Open in April. Family influence behind Serena’s return Serena said her return to doubles was partly inspired by Venus’s strong performance in last year’s US Open doubles event. She also mentioned that her daughter, Olympia, encouraged her to team up again with Venus. She admitted she had not originally planned to return to competition at this stage, but the motivation from family and Venus changed her decision. When asked about a possible singles return at Wimbledon, she said she would need more preparation before considering it. Other Wimbledon wildcard updates British player Dan Evans has not received a wildcard for the men’s singles draw, which will mark his final professional appearance. Stan Wawrinka, a three time Grand Slam winner, has been awarded a wildcard as he prepares to retire later this season. Grigor Dimitrov is also included in the main draw through a wildcard entry. French Open runner up Maja Chwalinska has earned a women’s singles wildcard following her strong run in Paris. Wimbledon 2026 schedule Wimbledon is scheduled to begin on Monday, 29 June.
SportsUnited States

Williams Sisters Secure Wimbledon Doubles Wildcard Return

Serena and Venus set for SW19 comeback Serena Williams and Venus Williams are set to return to Wimbledon together after receiving a wildcard entry for the women’s doubles event. The…

Federal investigators say they stopped a planned attack targeting a UFC event held at the White House. The plan allegedly involved drones loaded with explosives and a coordinated sniper setup aimed at creating panic during the large public gathering. Officials say the attack was intended to unfold in stages. The first step involved drone strikes near surrounding buildings. The second phase allegedly included snipers targeting people as crowds moved away in confusion. A final group would then try to enter secure areas near the White House. How Investigators Uncovered It Authorities discovered the plan through digital surveillance and intercepted communications. One key suspect was arrested in Ohio. Investigators accessed encrypted messages that linked him to other individuals involved in the planning. His mother reportedly alerted local authorities after noticing suspicious online activity and large firearms purchases. This tip helped law enforcement move quickly before the event took place. Suspects and Arrests Five people are now in custody according to officials. The arrests took place across several locations in the United States as part of a coordinated law enforcement operation. One suspect faces charges including conspiracy against the United States and attempted violence against a federal officer. Officials say more suspects may still be under investigation as the case develops. Online Activity and Motives Investigators say the group formed online earlier in 2026 through a social media chat group. Communication later moved to an encrypted messaging platform. Prosecutors describe the group as influenced by extreme ideological views and anti government sentiment. Messages referenced political grievances and broader frustrations about national issues. Officials say members discussed targeting high profile figures attending public events. Authorities also say the group spoke about triggering broader unrest through coordinated violence. Security Response and Investigation Security agencies worked together to stop the plan before any attack could occur. Officials described the situation as a serious threat but confirmed the event proceeded safely with strong protection measures in place. Investigations remain active. Authorities say additional suspects are still being tracked, and the case may expand as more digital evidence is analyzed.
PoliticsUnited States

FBI Stops Alleged White House UFC Event Attack Plot Involving Drones and Sniper Plan

Federal investigators say they stopped a planned attack targeting a UFC event held at the White House. The plan allegedly involved drones loaded with explosives and a coordinated sniper setup…

Pizza Hut is being sold for $2.7bn in a split deal involving LongRange Capital and Yum China as Yum! Brands restructures its global restaurant portfolio
BusinessUnited States

Pizza Hut Sold in $2.7 Billion Deal as Yum! Brands Reshapes Global Business

Pizza Hut Sold in Major $2.7 Billion Deal Yum! Brands has agreed to sell Pizza Hut in a deal worth $2.7 billion. The company is dividing ownership between two buyers…

Trump and Iran Exchange Strikes and Fresh War Threats Escalate Tensions Escalating military action between United States and Iran US President Donald Trump and senior Iranian officials have exchanged strong warnings after both sides carried out military strikes. The situation intensified quickly following recent attacks on military targets in the region. Trump said Iran delayed negotiations and would now face consequences. He claimed Iran’s military was severely weakened and unable to respond effectively. US strikes and Iran response across the region The US carried out strikes on Iranian related sites after a US army helicopter was brought down in the Gulf area. According to US Central Command, the targets included radar positions, ground control systems, and defence installations near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on US military bases in Bahrain and Jordan. Iranian forces said they targeted multiple locations and claimed further actions would follow if pressure continued. Trump statement and rising political pressure Trump used his social media platform to say Iran had failed to secure a diplomatic agreement in time. He warned that Iran would now face consequences. Earlier, he had suggested that a deal between the two sides was close, but his tone shifted sharply after the strikes. He also described Iran’s military capacity as heavily damaged and claimed key parts of its forces were no longer operational. Iran response and diplomatic concerns Iran’s foreign ministry accused the United States of harming diplomatic efforts through inconsistent messages and repeated changes in position. Officials said any future talks would require stability and clear commitments. Iran also said it would not ignore any attack or threat and signaled that its response would continue if pressure increased. Strait of Hormuz tension and helicopter incident US officials said the helicopter was hit during patrol activity near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. The aircraft did not explode, and both crew members were rescued using a sea based drone system. Officials have not fully confirmed whether the attack was deliberate, but investigations continue.
PoliticsUnited StatesWar

US Iran Deal Could Be Released Before Friday

US Vice President JD Vance said that a preliminary agreement between the United States and Iran may be made public before Friday. This follows statements from US President Donald Trump,…

Fans attending World Cup 2026 are spending thousands on tickets, travel, and hotels as total costs rise sharply across host countries USA, Canada, and Mexico.
News

Fans Pay Thousands for World Cup 2026 Experience as Costs Surge

Attending the World Cup 2026 has become a dream experience for football supporters, but it comes with a heavy price tag. Many fans across the United States, Canada, and Mexico…

Australia Investigates Allegations of Assault on Gaza Aid Flotilla Activists Key Investigation Launched Australian authorities have started looking into serious allegations made by activists who were detained after a Gaza-bound aid flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces in May. The Australian Federal Police confirmed they have opened inquiries based on claims raised by members of the group. The activists raised concerns after meeting Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and senior officials earlier this week. They allege they were mistreated during detention, including accusations of sexual assault, torture, and abuse. Claims Made by Activists One of the activists, Juliet Lamont, said officials had agreed to examine their complaints. She stated that authorities planned an independent review into what she described as kidnapping and severe mistreatment during detention. Lamont also said the group felt their accounts were taken seriously during the meeting, and that police had committed to a victim focused process. Response from Australian Authorities The Australian Federal Police confirmed that inquiries have begun and said they are treating the matter with a trauma informed approach. Officials added that updates will be shared when appropriate. Foreign Minister Penny Wong also raised concerns with Israeli officials and called for an independent and transparent investigation. Her office said the meeting with activists was an opportunity to hear their accounts directly. Israeli Position The Israeli embassy in Australia rejected the allegations. It said there is no credible evidence supporting claims of sexual assault or torture. The embassy also said no formal complaints had been submitted to it. Israeli officials described the activists as political provocateurs and said their claims had not been verified. A spokesperson also referred to earlier comments by Israeli leadership, noting internal criticism of conduct shown in a video involving detainees. Background of the Incident The activists were part of a larger group of hundreds of people detained when Israeli forces intercepted a flotilla carrying humanitarian aid toward Gaza on 18 May. Eleven Australians were among those held during the operation. The incident has drawn attention due to ongoing tensions around aid delivery efforts and maritime blockades affecting Gaza.
News

Australia Investigates Allegations of Assault on Gaza Aid Flotilla Activists

Key Investigation Launched Australian authorities have started looking into serious allegations made by activists who were detained after a Gaza-bound aid flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces in May. The…

Hungary Limits PM Terms to Eight Years After Parliament Vote Constitutional change passed by large majority Hungary’s parliament has approved a constitutional amendment that restricts any prime minister to a maximum of eight years in office. The decision follows a sweeping victory by Péter Magyar’s Tisza party, which secured a two thirds majority in the recent election and now has the power to change the country’s Basic Law. The reform passed with 135 votes in favor and 50 against. It now awaits approval from President Tamás Sulyok before becoming law. New rule targets long term political power Under the new system, no individual who has served as prime minister since 1990 can hold the position for more than two terms, even if those terms are not consecutive. The move is designed to prevent long stretches of rule by a single leader. The change directly affects future political planning, including Péter Magyar, who would now be limited to serving until 2034 if he remains in power. Political reaction and criticism Viktor Orbán, who led Hungary for 16 straight years before losing power in April, strongly criticized the reform. He said the opposition is trying to block political rivals rather than strengthen democracy. Orbán, recently re elected as leader of his party Fidesz, argued that the new government should focus on current issues instead of long term political restrictions. His party voted against the amendment in parliament. Balázs Orbán also accused the ruling party of trying to remove political competition through legal means. Wider reforms and EU concerns The same constitutional package also removes the requirement for an independent body that previously protected Hungary’s “constitutional identity.” This body was widely associated with Viktor Orbán’s earlier governance structure. The amendment also ends the role of sovereignty focused institutions created in recent years to monitor foreign influence in domestic politics. Hungary has faced repeated criticism from international observers over corruption and rule of law concerns. Transparency International has ranked it among the most corruption affected countries in the European Union for several years. The European Commission recently agreed to release €16.4 billion in funding, tied to reforms aimed at improving transparency and reducing corruption risks.
Politics

Hungary Limits PM Terms to Eight Years After Parliament Vote

Constitutional change passed by large majority Hungary’s parliament has approved a constitutional amendment that restricts any prime minister to a maximum of eight years in office. The decision follows a…

Stay Connected

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Russell Brand's criminal conviction puts his controversial comedy career, bestselling memoir and public image under renewed scrutiny.
How 2000s lad culture helped Russell Brand to hide in plain sight
Entertainment
Heavy winter smog covering roads and buildings in Delhi, India.
Delhi’s toxic winter air is back – is the Indian capital prepared for pollution?
Health Weather
Donald Trump announces the Oval Office national monument designation at the White House.
Trump signs order to preserve Oval Office as national monument
Election United States
Investigators examine the railway accident site near Urda, Spain.
Spain’s rail authorities face European fraud probe after Urda rail disaster
News
Register Lost your password?