More than 175 World War II-era practice bombs have been uncovered at a playground in Wooler, Northumberland, during renovation work. Though used for training, these devices still contain explosive charges, making them hazardous. Authorities are meticulously working to clear the site, aiming to make the playground safe for children by April.
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Thousands of displaced Palestinians returned to northern Gaza after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The journey revealed a wasteland of rubble and destroyed neighborhoods. The ceasefire saw Hamas release four female soldiers, while Israel handed over 200 Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations continue for the remaining hostages. Approximately 90 hostages still remain in Gaza.
Tulsi Gabbard, confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence with strong Republican support, was presented with a Captain America shield symbolizing leadership and duty. Gabbard pledges to ensure national security and address political bias in intelligence. Her bipartisan background and commitment to service mark her leadership in overseeing 18 intelligence agencies.
The UK government has announced its largest sanctions package of over 100 new sanctions against Russia, targeting military supply chains and financial systems aiding the war in Ukraine. The sanctions include foreign financial institutions and third-country suppliers supporting Russia's military efforts, aiming to weaken Putin's war chest and improve prospects for lasting peace.
President Trump paid tribute to Laken Riley and Jocelyn Nungaray, victims of undocumented immigrants, while pushing for increased funding for mass deportations. Trump also officially designated certain gangs as foreign terrorist organizations and urged Congress to support his detailed funding request for enhanced border security.
A fourth contingent of 200 Kenyan police arrived in Haiti to help fight violent gangs, joining over 600 others. Despite the US freezing $13.3 million in funding for the mission, commander Godfrey Otunge assured the mission is on track, with less than 3 per cent of support affected. The mission continues to receive aid from the US and other countries. Gangs control 85 per cent of Port-au-Prince, causing widespread violence and displacement.
Luke Ford, a 35-year-old actor, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for rape, including Scotland's first 'stealthing' conviction. Ford deceived multiple women over 12 years, using dating apps to initiate contact before subjecting them to physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. His stealthing conviction involved removing a condom without consent, an act classified as rape under UK law.
Karmelo Anthony, charged with the murder of Austin Metcalf, has been moved to a secure location due to escalating death threats and harassment following his release on bond. The Anthony family reported alarming incidents, including loitering, threatening mail, and false deliveries. A rally demanding Anthony's re-incarceration, fueled by racial tensions, further prompted the relocation for his safety.
Bangladesh's Interim Government does not plan to ban the Awami League, but individuals in its leadership facing serious charges will be tried. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus assured timely elections and discussed international accountability for crimes. Humanitarian aid efforts for Rohingya refugees were also highlighted.
US President Trump’s administration is pressuring Ukraine to sign an economic deal transferring substantial natural resources and profits in exchange for support. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy rejected the proposal, demanding military aid. The contentious negotiations are causing concern among Ukrainian officials and European allies, with potential dire consequences if Trump’s terms are refused.
Two wrong alerts of evacuation meant for specific areas were sent to all residents of LA County sparking a frenzy. As social media users woke up to evacuation alerts at 4 am, the LA country said it was not a man-made error as those alerts were not sent by any human action. As they work on to fix the alerting system, the LA County urged people to not disable the system on their phones.