International
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest downsize in 15 years
The BBC is to cut as many as 2,000 jobs in the biggest downsizing of the public service broadcaster in 15 years.
US confirms losing $238mn MQ-4C Triton drone
The US Navy has officially confirmed the loss of an MQ-4C Triton high-altitude surveillance drone following a “mishap” over the Persian Gulf last week. The incident involving the $238 million platform, one of the most advanced intelligence assets in the American arsenal, occurred during a period of high regional sensitivity and a fragile ceasefire with Iran.
Fresh Russian barrage kills 16 in Ukraine
Russian strikes killed at least 16 people in Ukraine, local authorities said Thursday, after Moscow rained missiles and drones on its neighbour in overnight attacks.
Israel and Lebanon leaders to hold talks in decades: Trump
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that talks between Israel and Lebanon will begin Thursday, offering few details on the planned negotiations.
Pakistan lifts seven-year blanket ban on crypto services
Pakistan’s central bank notified all banks and financial institutions in the country that the ban on providing crypto services has been lifted.
Nine killed in second Turkish school shooting in two days
At least eight students and one teacher have been killed and several others injured following a shooting at a school in southern Turkey, Interior Minister Mustafa Cifci has said.
Vance tells Pope Leo to ‘be careful’
Senior Trump administration officials escalated criticism of the Vatican on Tuesday, with Vice President Vance warning Pope Leo XIV to “be careful” when speaking about theology and White House Border Czar Tom Homan telling him to “leave politics alone.”
Dubai's Burj Al Arab hotel will shut for 18 months
Luxury hotel Burj Al Arab in Dubai will shut during a major 18-month renovation, a staff member confirmed on Wednesday, its first since opening in 1999 and at a time when tourism in the region has slowed due to the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.
Belgium seizes Israel bound British cargoes of military components
Belgian authorities have seized two British shipments of military components bound for Israel, invoking a ban on any military-laden aircraft using the country’s facilities or airspace.
Pakistan army chief Asim Munir in Iran to deliver US message
Pakistan's army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has arrived in Tehran with the aim of restarting talks between Iran and the United States. Iran's state media IRIB reported that a high-level delegation led by him is making this visit to deliver a special message from the United States and coordinate the second round of talks.