Category: News
What are cold weather payments and who can get them?
Cold weather payments have been triggered for the start of 2025. Some people in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are entitled to the money when there is a prolonged period of below-zero temperatures. In Scotland, those on low incomes and benefits may receive a separate winter heating payment, which does not depend on how low…
How Darts Became London’s Rowdiest Winter Party
The professional darts championships draw tens of thousands of raucous fans. The beer flows freely in the stands, but the competition is serious. Fans brought out their holiday best for the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, or “Ally Pally,” in London.Craig Bernard for The New York Times By Claire Moses Claire Moses attended a…
New Orleans coroner releases identities of most truck attack victims
More than half of the 12 identified were from local areas and all ranged in age from 18 to 63 The New Orleans coroner’s office has released the identities of most of the 14 people killed in the deadly truck attack aimed at New Year’s Day revelers on the city’s famous Bourbon Street. More than…
Guantánamo Convict Sues to Stop U.S. Plan to Send Him to Prison in Iraq
A court filing said the prisoner was at risk for abuse and might not be able to get adequate health care if transferred. By Carol Rosenberg An Iraqi who pleaded guilty to commanding insurgents who committed war crimes in Afghanistan filed suit in federal court on Friday, seeking to stop his transfer from the U.S.…
Briton among dead in New Orleans vehicle attack
A British national was among at least 14 people killed in the vehicle attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day, the Foreign Office has confirmed. In a statement, the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said it was supporting the deceased person’s family. An FCDO spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a…
A Half-Ton Piece of Space Junk Falls Onto a Village in Kenya
No one was hurt by the object, believed to be part of a launch rocket. Experts say the frequency of such incidents is increasing as the amount of debris in orbit around the Earth grows dramatically. By Lynsey Chutel A glowing ring of metal, more than eight feet in diameter and weighing more than 1,100…
How to keep warm when budgets are squeezed
Sub-zero temperatures are hitting the UK just as gas and electricity prices have risen for millions of households. Energy bills are about 50% higher than pre-Covid levels, leaving many struggling to cover the cost alongside other financial demands. So what can you do to stay warm while keeping costs down? Keeping warm over the winter…
Friday Briefing: F.B.I. Said the New Orleans Attacker Acted Alone
Plus, eat better in 2025. By Justin Porter Investigators said yesterday that the U.S. Army veteran who plowed a pickup truck into a crowd of New Year’s revelers in New Orleans acted alone. They had said earlier in their investigation that they were looking into whether other people might have helped him plant explosives in…
FBI finds bomb-making material at home of New Orleans attack suspect
Investigators recover equipment from house rented by attacker who killed 14 and injured dozens on New Year’s Day Authorities have confirmed finding bomb-making materials at the New Orleans home that US military veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar rented before ramming a pickup truck into a crowd of New Year’s revelers, according to an FBI statement containing the…
Is JFK’s Grandson Really Justin Baldoni’s Lawyer? Here’s the Truth
After John F. Kennedy’s grandson Jack Schlossberg joked that he was representing Justin Baldoni in his lawsuit against the New York Times, the actor’s lawyer slammed the “ridiculous” post. Justin Baldoni‘s legal counsel is not bringing on a new member. In the days following the It Ends With Us star and director’s lawsuit against The New York Times for their Dec.…
Police search for motive in Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion at Trump hotel
Matthew Livelsberger died in an apparent suicide after reportedly breaking up with wife six days before explosion Police in the US were still investigating the possible motivations and background of Matthew Livelsberger, the decorated special forces soldier who died in an apparent suicide and vehicle bombing of a Trump hotel in Las Vegas on New…
What Happened to Carter’s White House Solar Panels? They Lived On.
Jimmy Carter (1924-2024) The panels, removed under Ronald Reagan, found new homes from Maine to China. And their legacy still reverberates. By Austyn Gaffney It was a novel idea at the time, but one that made sense: In 1979, President Jimmy Carter had 32 solar panels installed on the roof of the White House. They…
Chilean president makes historic trip to south pole amid Antarctica sovereignty claim
Gabriel Boric is first Latin American leader to reach planet’s southernmost point, according to his office Chile’s president Gabriel Boric has made a historic trip to the south pole to reaffirm his country’s “claim to sovereignty” over its part of Antarctica, his office said. Boric is the first Latin American leader to reach the Earth’s…
Johnson re-elected as House Speaker in razor-tight margin
Republican Mike Johnson survived a razor-thin vote to remain House Speaker in a drama-filled, highly-anticipated vote that marked the start of complete Republican control in Washington. Johnson could only afford to lose two votes because of the tight margin of control Republicans have in Congress. While he came close to losing re-election, he survived the…
Why Fans Think Ryan Reynolds Trolled Justin Baldoni in Deadpool Sequel
Marvel fans are speculating that Ryan Reynolds’ movie Deadpool & Wolverine, contains digs at Justin Baldoni, who Ryan’s wife Blake Lively has since sued for sexual harassment. Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s dispute may have already hit the big screen. Some social media users are speculating that the movie Deadpool & Wolverine, which stars the actress’…
Honduran Leader Threatens to Push U.S. Military Out of Base if Trump Orders Mass Deportations
In pushing back against President-elect Donald J. Trump’s plan, President Xiomara Castro threatened that bases hosting U.S. troops could “lose all reason to exist in Honduras.” By Annie Correal Reporting from Mexico City Honduras’s president threatened to push the U.S. military out of a base it built decades ago in the Central American country should…
Trump’s Falsehoods Aside, China’s Influence Over Global Ports Raises Concerns
The president-elect inaccurately said that Chinese soldiers operate the Panama Canal. But China’s strategic positions in shipping worry Washington officials. By Ana Swanson Ana Swanson covers international trade and is based in Washington. It was a Christmas message that no one saw coming. On Dec. 25, President-elect Donald J. Trump went on his social media…
The soldier who died in Cybertruck explosion wrote it was intended as a ‘wakeup call’
By The Associated Press A highly decorated Army soldier who died in an explosion of a Tesla Cybertruck at the Trump hotel in Las Vegas left a note saying it was stunt to serve as “wakeup call” for the country’s ills, investigators said Friday. Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Green Beret from Colorado Springs, Colorado, also…
South Korean President’s Supporters Camp Out Near His Home
South Korea Turmoil For days, thousands have been outside the house in central Seoul, trying to shield President Yoon Suk Yeol. By Choe Sang-Hun Reporting from Seoul Thousands of supporters of President Yoon Suk Yeol have been camped out for days on the pavement near his home in central Seoul, vowing to block anyone from trying…
Teenager Littler demolishes Van Gerwen to claim historic world title
Luke Littler is the youngest PDC world darts champion in history Incredible Luke Littler etched his name into darting history with a crushing 7-3 victory over Michael van Gerwen to become the youngest ever PDC World Championship winner. The 17-year-old was in unstoppable form as he raced into a 4-0 lead, and despite Van Gerwen…
Judge sets date for Trump hush-money sentencing but rules out prison term
President-elect will be sentenced for his 34 felony convictions on 10 January, Judge Juan Merchan rules A judge on Friday set Donald Trump’s sentencing in his hush-money case for 10 January – little over a week before he is due to return to the White House – but promised not to jail him. Judge Juan…
Heidi Klum Returning to Project Runway After Almost a Decade Away
Heidi Klum is set to return to Project Runway eight years after exiting the hit competition series, according to a new report. Heidi Klum’s latest project is bringing her full circle. While the supermodel said Auf Wiedersehen to Project Runway in 2017 after hosting the series for 16 seasons, she’s set to return for season…
Trump to be sentenced over hush money case but judge signals no jail time
A judge has ordered that Donald Trump will be sentenced on 10 January in his hush-money case in New York – less than two weeks before he is set to be sworn in as president. Judge Juan Merchan signalled he’d sentence Trump to a conditional discharge, in which a case is closed without jail time,…
About 30 killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza as truce talks set to resume
‘Harsh day’ of bombardments with several children among dead, says Gaza’s civil defence agency Gaza’s civil defence agency said about 30 people were killed in Israeli bombardments on Friday, as Hamas said indirect negotiations for a truce in the war were set to resume in Qatar. The Israeli military said three rockets targeted its territory…
Austrian liberal party quits coalition talks leaving negotiations in disarray
Surprise move by Neos raises doubts about viability of forming centrist government excluding far right The smallest of three parties in talks to form Austria’s next government has unexpectedly quit the negotiations, throwing into disarray an effort to form a centrist ruling coalition without the far-right Freedom party (FPÖ). The surprise move by the liberal…
Christina Haack’s Ex Josh Hall Details “Tough Year” Amid Divorce
Christina Haack’s estranged husband Josh Hall reflected on his tough 2024, which saw him getting a divorce from the HGTV star after two years of marriage. Josh Hall is looking forward to rebuilding in 2025. Christina Haack’s estranged husband rang in the new year by reflecting on the “tough” year he faced in 2024, during…
The Housemaid Starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried Is Underway
Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried and more have started filming Paul Feig’s adaptation of #BookTok favorite The Housemaid. From #BookTok to the big screen. Fans on social media already can’t get enough of Freida McFadden’s novel The Housemaid, and soon they’ll be able to see the thriller come to life with some of the biggest stars. which at…
Polar vortex expected to bring snow, ice and brutal cold to most of US
Starting Saturday, millions of people are going to be hit by moderate to heavy snow from Kansas City to Washington – including a high chance of at least 8in (20cm) of snow between central Kansas and Indiana – the National Weather Service warned Friday. As the storm moves out on Monday, hundreds of millions of…
The attack in New Orleans reveals ISIS’ influence lingers, experts say
Jaclyn Diaz The FBI says the man responsible for the ramming attack in New Orleans that killed at least 14 people, worked alone and executed his plan after being inspired by the terrorist group ISIS. Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old Army veteran from Houston, was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police following the attack.…
Selena Quintanilla’s Killer Yolanda Saldívar Files for Parole
Nearly 30 years after Yolanda Saldívar murdered Mexican-American icon Selena Quintanilla, she is seeking parole. Yolanda Saldívar is seeking an early release. Nearly 30 years after she was convicted of killing Selena (full name Selena Quintanilla Perez) in 1995, the former employee of the Queen of Tejano Music has filed a petition for parole in…
‘I lost my voice laughing’: Darts fans on the pantomime of watching live
As teenage sensation Luke Littler lands yet another 180, hundreds of people in fancy dress wave signs at the camera with their own bizarre range of messages to catch the eye of the TV audience. And amid the noisy, party atmosphere a hapless guy destined to become viral on TikTok struggles to carry five giant…
The Mozambique Song, and Rapper, Inspiring a Youth Uprising
“Povo no Poder,” or “People in Power,” by the rap star Azagaia, has become the unofficial anthem of the protests over a disputed election. By Tavares Cebola and John Eligon Tavares Cebola reported from Marracuene, Mozambique, and John Eligon from Johannesburg. The young men huddled around a parked car, bobbing to a beat that thumped…
Natalia Grace Slams Pedophile, Violent Accusations in Rare Interview
Natalia Grace’s adoptive parents accused her of lying about her age. Ahead of The Curious Case of Natalia Grace: The Final Chapter, she shared her side of the story. Natalia Grace wants the world to know the real her. More than a decade after the now-21-year-old became subject to public fascination when her first adoptive parents alleged she was…
How Trump and Musk’s interventions prompt fresh diplomatic challenge
In Donald Trump’s first term, governments around the world braced for his morning social media posts. What policy would be reversed, what insult thrown? Four years on, diplomats are once more getting twitchy when the sun rises on America’s east coast. Back then, they learned to take Trump – as the adage had it –…
Mike Johnson fails to secure majority votes for House speakership
Chamber will likely be forced in to a second ballot after three Republicans vote against Johnson in first round After initially facing internal dissent, Trump-endorsed Republican Mike Johnson secured the House speakership in the first round of voting on Friday. Johnson couldn’t afford to lose more than one Republican vote, and three Republican members of…
Biden made diversifying the federal bench a top priority. Here’s a look at his legacy
Carrie Johnson President Biden leaves office this month after appointing 235 lawyers to the bench — more than a quarter of all active federal judges. He named the first Black woman to the U.S. Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. He appointed more women of color to federal appeals courts than all previous presidents combined.…
Ice-T and Coco Celebrate Their “Sexy” 24th Marriage Anniversary
Ice-T and Coco shared their love for each other on their 24th wedding anniversary with steamy posts. Ice-T and Coco Austin are ringing in a major milestone. The Law and Order: Special Victims Unit star and the model, who are parents to daughter Chanel Nicole, 9, not only celebrated the start of 2025 on Jan.…
Elon Musk Trolls Britain and Defends Tommy Robinson in Flurry of Social Media Posts
In a barrage of posts rife with misinformation, he revived questions about a child sex abuse scandal, vilified the prime minister and defended a jailed far-right agitator. By Mark Landler Reporting from London He demanded the release of a convicted criminal and far-right agitator. He falsely accused the prime minister, Keir Starmer, of failing to…
2025 Golden Globes Host Nikki Glaser Says Jo Koy Was a “Little Naïve”
Nikki Glaser has some constructive feedback for Jo Koy. As the comedian prepares to host the 2025 Golden Globes, set to air live from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills Jan. 5, she reflected on what the previous emcee taught her through his controversial monologue at last year’s affair. “It taught me the importance of…
Meghan McCain Slams Meghan Markle’s “Out of Touch” Netflix Series
The View alum Meghan McCain criticized Meghan Markle’s upcoming Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, labeling the lifestyle project as “tone deaf.” Meghan McCain isn’t hiding her point of view. Following the trailer debut for Meghan Markle’s upcoming Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, the political commentator dismissed the Suits alum’s new project as being “completely and…
Palestinian Authority Temporarily Bans Al Jazeera
Middle East Crisis The authority’s official news media accused the Qatari-backed broadcaster of “inciting sedition” and “interfering in internal Palestinian affairs,” though it did not provide detailed examples of law breaking. By Aaron Boxerman Reporting from Jerusalem The Palestinian Authority announced on Wednesday that it would temporarily bar Al Jazeera from operating in its areas,…
More than 2,200 people died in Mediterranean in 2024, UN finds
Figure includes hundreds of children, who make up one in five migrants trying to reach Europe fleeing war and poverty More than 2,200 people either died or went missing in the Mediterranean while trying to reach Europe in search of refuge in 2024. The figure, cited in a statement from Regina De Dominicis, the regional…
Israeli Threat to UNRWA Looms Over Gaza
Middle East Crisis The U.N. agency known as UNRWA has been the backbone of aid to Gaza. Now, Israel is moving to ban it over accusations that it shielded Hamas militants. By Jack Nicas Reporting from Jerusalem and from the Qalandiya refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank To Palestinians, the United Nations Relief and…
Angelina Jolie Calls Out “Liars” Amid Brad Pitt Divorce Settlement
Days after settling her divorce with Fight Club actor Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie revealed her biggest pet peeve—and she did not hold back. Angelina Jolie has no tolerance for dishonesty. In fact, the Maria actress—who recently settled her divorce from Brad Pitt after a nearly decade-long legal battle—has admitted that it is one of the…
‘Masterful’ novelist David Lodge dies aged 89
Author and critic David Lodge, best known for his Booker Prize-nominated comic campus novels Small World and Nice Work, has died at the age of 89. In the books, the former literature professor satirised academic life, and both went on to be adapted for television. His other celebrated works included Changing Places and The British…
European Ministers Visit Syria to Strengthen Ties With New Government
Syria’s Civil War Top diplomats from Germany and France went to Damascus on behalf of the European Union. It’s the first such trip in years, part of a flurry of Western outreach. By Aaron Boxerman Syria’s new leaders met the French and German foreign ministers in the capital, Damascus, on Friday in one of the…
The Best Dr. Martens Deals: Save Up to 60% With Shoes as Low as $59
Lace up and save big! These iconic Dr. Martens deals offer up to 60% off, with classic styles starting at just $59. Don’t miss your chance to snag a pair of these must-have boots for less! Our writers and editors independently determine what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, E! may…
Strictly’s Amy froze embryos after cancer diagnosis
Strictly Come Dancing’s Amy Dowden said she “would love a family” after freezing five of her embryos following her breast cancer diagnosis in 2023. The 34-year-old from Caerphilly underwent egg retrieval prior to treatment to give her and her husband Ben Jones the chance to try for a baby in future. She announced in February…
Saudi Arabia and U.A.E. Tread Cautiously With Syria’s New Leaders
Syria’s Civil War The two Mideast powerhouses have been trying to block the rise of Islamist groups in the region for two decades. The rebel takeover in Damascus will test that approach. By Ismaeel Naar Reporting from Manama, Bahrain, and from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates For decades, Syria was Iran’s closest Arab ally in…
Britt Allcroft, Thomas the Tank Engine Series Creator, Dead at 81
The creator of the beloved children’s series Thomas & Friends, Britt Allcroft, died at the age of 81. The Thomas the Tank Engine and his fans all over the world are in mourning. Britt Allcroft, who co-created the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends children’s series, has died. She was 81. “It is with…
Why is it so hard to arrest South Korea’s impeached president?
There were more than 100 police officers and they were armed with a warrant, but South Korean authorities failed to arrest suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol after a six-hour deadlock outside his home. That’s how long the confrontation with Yoon’s security team lasted as they formed a human wall and used vehicles to block the…
Man murdered after perceived slight at pub karaoke
A “cowardly” man murdered a pub goer with one punch after he thought he was making fun of his partner’s karaoke singing. Christopher Cooper, 39, punched 64-year-old Kelvin Evans, from Gorseinon, Swansea, once to the head outside the Station Hotel pub on 26 May 2023. Judge Geraint Walters told Swansea Crown Court that Cooper appeared…
A Long Fight to Keep a Closer Eye on Madrasas Unravels in Pakistan
In a deal with Islamist parties, Pakistan is abandoning a requirement that religious seminaries, long seen by Western officials as a potential threat, register with the government. By Zia ur-Rehman Reporting from Karachi, Pakistan They draw millions of poor Pakistani children with the simple promise of free education, meals and housing. For devout families, they…
Caelynn Bell Details Fertility Journey With Husband Dean Bell
Bachelor Nation’s Caelynn Bell shared that growing her and husband Dean Bell’s family was a major goal for 2025, detailing the fertility struggles she has faced along the way. Caelynn Bell is sharing insight into her and Dean Bell’s family plans. While revealing her and her husband of more than a year’s goals and aspirations…
South Korea’s Dueling Protests
South Korea Turmoil A standoff between the impeached president’s security team and officials seeking to detain him was echoed on the streets outside the presidential residence. By John Yoon Reporting from Seoul It was another call to action on Friday for the South Korean protest movement that had faced down security forces just a month ago…
Apple’s AI notification falsely claims Littler has already won world darts final
A news summary from Apple has falsely claimed darts player Luke Littler won the PDC World Championship – before he has even played in the final. On Friday morning, an iPhone notification based on a news story of Littler winning the semi-final of the PDC World Championship falsely made it appear that the BBC was…
Barcelona to fine e-scooter users up to €500 for riding on pavements
Council to crack down on antisocial behaviour linked to rapid rise of e-scooter riders in city Anyone riding an electric scooter on the pavement or without a helmet in Barcelona faces a fine of up to €500 (£415) from 1 February as part of a crackdown on antisocial behaviour linked to the rapid rise of…
Jumping ‘Numts’ from Mitochondria Can Be Fast and Deadly
Jumping ‘Numts’ from Mitochondria Can Be Fast and Deadly Bits of DNA from mitochondria can skip surprisingly fast into our genome and may reduce lifespan By Martin Picard edited by Madhusree Mukerjee Little loops floating inside this illustration of a mitochondrion represent its DNA. Mitochondria descend from an ancient bacterium that was swallowed, millions of…
Rightwing thinktank booked to brief Kevin Rudd on Project 2025 months before Trump win, documents reveal
Heritage Foundation officials were due to outline their conservative blueprint at Australian embassy, correspondence shows The rightwing thinktank behind Project 2025 – cast as a playbook for Donald Trump’s second presidential term – was scheduled to brief Australian ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, on the manifesto months before last year’s election, documents reveal. The…
Lala Kent Shares Confession About Drinking Her Breast Milk in Coffee
Vanderpump Rules alum Lala Kent recently revealed that she “drank 10 ounces” of her own breastmilk in her morning coffee. Lala Kent‘s reality TV future may be uncertain, but she’s still getting real about her life. The Vanderpump Rules alum—who gave birth to her second daughter, Sosa, via sperm donor, in September—recently shared how she isn’t…
Shops offered grottos and wine to combat ‘drab’ December
The number of people going to shops has fallen for the second year in a row, according to a leading data monitor, after the year ended on a “drab December” for retail. Footfall dropped 2.2% in 2024, having also fallen in 2023, the British Retail Consortium’s (BRC) analysis of Sensormatic’s data found. Experts said a…
South Korea Fails to Detain Impeached President in Standoff at His Home
South Korea Turmoil Blocked by bodyguards, officials retreated after several hours without serving a court warrant to hold President Yoon Suk Yeol for questioning on insurrection charges. By Choe Sang-HunJohn Yoon and Jin Yu Young Reporting from Seoul When around 100 criminal investigators and police officers entered a hilly compound in central Seoul on Friday morning,…
Heliophysics Is Set to Shine in 2025
Heliophysics Is Set to Shine in 2025 The science of the sun and its effects on the solar system is a sprawling discipline that expects a very exciting 2025 By Meghan Bartels edited by Lee Billings The sun sends out a constant flow of charged particles called the solar wind, which ultimately travels past all…
Biden blocks Nippon Steel from buying US Steel
US President Joe Biden has formally blocked the takeover of US Steel by a bigger Japanese company, saying foreign ownership could pose risks for national security. The controversial decision comes a year after Nippon Steel first announced the $14.9bn (£12bn) deal, describing it as a lifeline for its smaller Pennsylvania-based rival. But the transaction soon…
Sydney Sweeney & Fiancé Jonathan Davino Pack on the PDA in Rare Photo
Euphoria’s Sydney Sweeney shared a heartwarming look back at 2024 on her Instagram, including throwbacks with friends and a rare photo locking lips with fiancé Jonathan Davis. Sydney Sweeney left 2024 feeling euphoric. In fact, the HBO star closed out the year with a fabulous photo dump highlighting her favorite parts of the year. And…
Bravo’s Craig Conover Froze His Sperm Before Paige DeSorbo Breakup
Southern Charm star Craig Conover revealed during the show’s Jan. 2 episode that he froze his sperm before his split from Paige DeSorbo. Craig Conover and Paige DeSorbo were planning for the future ahead of their split. Craig, 35, froze his sperm months before the Bravo stars broke up after three years of dating to accommodate…
Israel confirms it is holding Gaza hospital chief Abu Safiya
Israel has confirmed it is holding Gaza hospital director Dr Hussam Abu Safiya after earlier telling a local NGO that it was unaware of his case, sparking concern for his well being. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) statement said he was “currently being investigated by Israeli security forces” in person. The statement did not offer…
Thai prime minister declares £324m in assets including 217 designer handbags
Paetongtarn Shinawatra made required wealth declaration to national anti-corruption commission Thailand’s prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has declared £324m in assets including a collection of 217 designer handbags and 75 luxury watches in submissions on her wealth to a government body. Paetongtarn, daughter of the billionaire ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, took office in September, the fourth…
Neil Young reverses his Glastonbury ‘boycott’
Neil Young has announced he will play this year’s Glastonbury Festival, just days after saying he had turned down a slot because of the BBC’s involvement. The 79-year-old had announced that he and his band would not play the event because the BBC “wanted us to do a lot of things in a way we…
Kaley Cuoco Officiates Sister Briana Cuoco’s New Year’s Eve Wedding
Kaley Cuoco helped her sister kickstart the new year with a big bang. The Big Bang Theory star served as the officiant at the wedding of her younger sister Briana Cuoco, who married during a sweet New Year’s Eve ceremony. In a post shared by Kaley, 39, the actress poses with her fiancé Tom Pelphrey…
FBI says deadly New Orleans attack suspect acted alone. And, the House speaker vote
By Brittney Melton here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news you need to start your day. The FBI says Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the driver who rammed a pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans on New Year’s Day, acted alone. The agency backed off of…
Massive cleanup under way in Ghana after fire destroys one of world’s biggest secondhand markets
Thousands of traders face ruin after blaze razes two-thirds of Accra’s Kantamanto, which receives an estimated 15m used clothes from global north each week A huge cleanup operation is taking place after a fire devastated one of the world’s biggest secondhand clothes markets. Thousands of traders’ stalls were destroyed in the blaze that started at…
Hospital admissions for flu quadruple in England as NHS bosses warn of ‘huge’ strain
Cold snap expected to add to pressure as NHS England figures show 5,074 flu patients in hospital by 29 December The number of people admitted to hospital with flu in England has quadrupled in a month, as health leaders said “huge” pressure in the NHS will only get worse as temperatures plummet this weekend. Figures…
Musk ‘misinformed’ on grooming gangs, says minister
Elon Musk’s attack on the government’s handling of grooming gangs is “misjudged and certainly misinformed”, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said. Tech multi-billionaire Musk has posted a series of messages on his social media site X, accusing Sir Keir Starmer of failing to prosecute gangs that systematically groomed and raped young girls, and calling for…
A dawn stand-off, a human wall and a failed arrest: S Korea enters uncharted territory
The stand-off started long before dawn. By the time we arrived in the dark, an army of police had pushed back suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol’s angry supporters, who’d camped out overnight hoping to stop his arrest. Some of those I spoke to were crying, others wailing, at what they feared was about to unfold.…
Government must look at effects of toxic smoke on Grenfell firefighters, minister says
Union calls for regular health checks for 600 Grenfell firefighters after many developed long-term conditions The government “needs to seriously look” at the effects of toxic smoke inhalation on firefighters who served at the Grenfell Tower fire, a minister has said. The comments from Andrew Gwynne, the health minister, came after the Guardian disclosed that…
Hospital flu cases rising at ‘very concerning’ rate, NHS England warns
The number of people with flu in hospital in England has gone up sharply over Christmas and is rising “at a very concerning rate”, NHS chiefs warn. Latest data shows there were 5,000 patients with the virus being treated in hospital at the end of last week – almost 3.5 times higher than the same…
Melissa Gorga Swears by This Secret to Erase Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Real Housewives of New Jersey cast member Melissa Gorga shares the skincare must-haves her fans always ask about and reveals her game-changing beauty hacks for smooth, wrinkle-free, glowing skin. We Included these products from Melissa Gorga because we think you’ll like her picks. Melissa is a paid spokesperson for the Amazon Influencer Program. Our writers…
Arrest standoff shows defiance of impeached South Korean president
Yoon Suk Yeoul has vowed to ‘fight to the end’ as he resists attempts to hold him accountable amid political crisis South Korean anti-corruption officials attempting to arrest the country’s suspended president, Yoon Suk Yeol, must know by now what he meant by his repeated vows to “fight to the end”. In the month since…
French and German ministers to meet Syria’s de facto leader
Jean-Noël Barrot and Annalena Baerbock in highest-level visit by major western powers since rebels toppled Assad The foreign ministers of France and Germany are to meet Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, in Damascus in the highest-level visit by major western powers since rebels toppled the regime of President Bashar al-Assad last month. Jean-Noël Barrot…
The Osmonds pay tribute to ‘genius’ brother Wayne
Wayne Osmond, a founding member of family band The Osmonds, who had a string of hits in the 1970s, has died at the age of 73. Wayne was a singer and guitarist, and co-wrote many of their biggest hits, including Crazy Horses, Goin’ Home And Let Me In. “Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and…
A record number of migrants reached the Canary Islands by sea in 2024, Spain says
Miguel Macias SEVILLE, Spain — The Atlantic migration route that connects West African nations with the Spanish Canary Islands set a new record in 2024, with at least 46,843 arrivals to the Spanish archipelago, according to yearly figures released by Spain’s Interior Ministry. The number surpassed last year’s previous record, and represents a 17% increase.…
Weather tracker: Cold air over warm waters brings heavy snow to Japan
Prefectures in north hit by falls of up to 30cm in a day as similar weather pattern affects parts of north America Heavy snow fell across northern Japan on Thursday, with the prefectures of Hokkaido, Aomori, Yamagata and Niigata particularly affected. Accumulations of 20-30cm over a 24-hour period were recorded across the affected areas, with…
Unanswered questions remain after Las Vegas vehicle explosion
US law enforcement is looking for clues to unravel the mystery behind the Tesla vehicle that exploded outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas earlier this week, giving seven people minor injuries. The man who rented the Cybertruck – then drove it to the city and parked it in front of the hotel – has…
Bodies of British woman and South African fiance found in Vietnam tourist villa
No evidence of physical trauma on Greta Marie Otteson and Arno Els Quinton, who were found in separate rooms The bodies of a British woman and her fiance have been discovered in separate rooms at a tourist villa in Vietnam, police said. The victims were named locally as Greta Marie Otteson, a 33-year-old Briton, and…
Police investigate after reports of prison attack on Sara Sharif’s father
Urfan Sharif said to have been treated for injuries to his neck and face after attack in his cell in Belmarsh prison Police are investigating reports that the father of the schoolgirl Sara Sharif had his throat cut in an assault by fellow inmates while in prison for her murder. Urfan Sharif, 43, is said…
Man arrested over alleged 1997 murder of Meaghan Rose on Sunshine Coast denied bail
Keith Lees, 72, evaded warrant for almost 18 months in relation to alleged murder, and is accused of trying to bite police A man is behind bars and will likely face extradition after his arrest over a woman’s alleged murder more than two decades ago. Keith Lees, 72, remains in custody after spending about 18…
Temperatures fall to -7.9C with snow warnings for weekend
Temperatures fell to nearly -8C overnight as an Arctic blast hits the UK, with warnings that snow could bring “significant disruption” this weekend. Amber cold weather health alerts warning of a risk of a rise in deaths are in place for the whole of England, with one local NHS service urging people to avoid going…
Britain’s ‘oldest’ barrister still loves job at 90
A man thought to be Britain’s oldest practising criminal barrister says he has no intention of retiring any time soon. Noel Philo, who was called to the bar in 1975 and works at Lincoln Crown Court, celebrated his 90th birthday on Christmas Day. “I do feel that through my work, I can do some good…
Nick Clegg leaves Meta ahead of Trump’s return as US president
Former deputy prime minister Sir Nick Clegg is to step down from his current job as president of global affairs at social media giant Meta. In a post on Meta’s Facebook on Thursday, Sir Nick, a former leader of the Liberal Democrats, said he was departing the company after nearly seven years. He will be…
Ruby Franke’s Daughter Details Intense Confrontation After CPS Call
Nearly a year after Ruby Franke was sentenced to four consecutive one to 15 years in prison for child abuse charges, her daughter Shari Franke detailed the events preceding her arrest. Ruby Franke’s daughter is ready to tell her story. Nearly a year after the former parenting influencer was given four consecutive one to 15…
Brothers wanted over alleged Queensland shooting murder of Chloe Mason believed to be camping in NSW
Warrants for the arrest of Codye Thomson and Kaine Thomson-Gleeson have been issued over the killing of 23-year-old in Caboolture Two brothers wanted for an alleged shooting murder north of Brisbane last month are now on the run after they were released after being questioned last month, according to Queensland police. Police named 29-year-old Codye…
‘Unimaginable tragedy’ for central Victorian community as three-year-old boy found dead after caravan fire
Police continue investigation into child’s body found after firefighters put out blaze in Boort A regional community is mourning an “unimaginable tragedy” after a three-year-old boy was found dead following a caravan fire. Emergency services were called to Lake View Street in Boort, north-central Victoria, at about 5.50pm on Thursday after reports a caravan had…
The failed attempt to arrest S Korea president explained
Six hours after South Korean police descended on the home of suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol – and after a sustained standoff with his security team – they called off an attempt to arrest him. “We’ve determined that the arrest is practically impossible,” said the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), which has been investigating Yoon’s short-lived…
Families of Sicilian mafia victims fear return of freed mobsters
Most of the bosses, released from prison on furlough or for good behaviour, have never disavowed Cosa Nostra Families of victims killed by the Sicilian mafia have expressed fears that more than 20 senior mobsters released over the last three months may now return to the neighbourhoods they once controlled. The majority of these bosses,…
Heatwave to descend on south-east Australia with temperatures forecast to exceed 40C
Much of south-east Australia will swelter through a heatwave over the weekend that is expected to exceed 40C in some places, bringing extreme fire danger before a cool change comes through. Melbourne was expected to peak at 38C on Saturday, reaching 37C on Sunday and dropping to 22C by Monday as the cool change brings…
The Papers: Sara Sharif’s dad ‘attacked in prison’ and social care ‘shake-up’
Health Secretary Wes Streeting writes in the Guardian that the new commission on adult social care in England will “finally grasp the nettle”. He says it will set the country on the path to building a service which “meets the urgent need of our generation”. The Daily Mirror it is “imperative” that the commission succeeds.…
Why supporters of South Korea’s impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol are flying US flags
The prominence of the US flag at conservative rallies reflects a complex intersection of religion, politics and identity that defines South Korea’s far-right movement As investigators attempted to arrest president Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday morning, his supporters gathered outside the presidential residence waving two national flags: the South Korean Taegukgi alongside the American Stars…
Paige DeSorbo Reacts to Accusation She Cheated on Craig Conover
Summer House star Paige DeSorbo spoke out after a rumor that she cheated on Southern Charm’s Craig Conover surfaced following their split. Paige DeSorbo isn’t exactly charmed by one rumor about her split from Craig Conover. Days after the Giggly Squad podcast host announced that she and the Southern Charm star had broken up after…
2 dead and 18 injured in Southern California plane crash
By The Associated Press FULLERTON, Calif. — Two people died and 18 were injured Thursday when a small plane crashed through the roof of a sprawling furniture manufacturing building in Southern California where at least 200 people were working, police said. The identities of the people who died, and whether they were in the plane…