Your take on what's trending.
Section
Explainers on global events and politics — what is confirmed and what to watch.
Politics
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, has proposed a VAT cut on electricity bills from 5% to 0%, saving households around £50 a year. The plan has sparked debate over its impact and adequacy amid the cost-of-living crisis.
World
A Michelin-starred chef in South Korea is under criminal investigation for serving edible ants as a garnish, violating food safety laws. If convicted, he could face up to one year in prison or a fine, sparking debate over culinary innovation versus regulation.
World
The U.S. has deployed a B-1 bomber amid escalating military strikes against Iran, now in their 12th consecutive night. The move signals a potential escalation as Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping continue, threatening global oil trade.
World
A 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit western Iran on March 31, 2025, according to Iranian media. The quake occurred amid heightened military tensions with the US, but no major damage or casualties have been reported. Iran experiences frequent seismic activity, with 75 earthquakes recorded in the past week.
Politics
A senior Australian Navy officer is facing a secret court-martial on charges related to lucrative defence contracts in Western Australia. The case has sparked concerns over transparency and accountability in military procurement.
Politics
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Iran is 'begging' for a nuclear deal but not ready to make one, causing oil prices to rise amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks come as Iran demands control over the strategic waterway, raising fears of conflict.
Politics
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized a defense bill integrating US and Israeli militaries, calling it an 'existential threat.' GOP lawmakers accused her of stoking antisemitism, while progressives like Bernie Sanders echoed her concerns.
Politics
Kemi Badenoch, UK Conservative Party leader, is trending due to her recent controversial statements on Europe and her push to redefine conservatism. Multiple sources highlight her growing influence and the polarized reactions she elicits.
Politics
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan has formally asked the Justice Department to consider criminal charges against former special counsel Jack Smith, citing alleged misconduct in his investigations of Donald Trump. The move escalates Republican efforts to target Smith after his prosecutions of Trump ended without conviction.
World
Houthi rebels attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, while US strikes killed 2 and wounded 11. Oil prices surged as Secretary of State Rubio said Iran is not ready to negotiate, escalating the Iran war.
Politics
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran is 'clearly not serious about making a deal,' leading to a rise in oil prices. He also warned Asian leaders that Iran's demands over the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent.
Politics
A group of wealthy individuals, including Gary Lineker, is urging UK Labour mayor Andy Burnham to support a wealth tax on the super-rich, arguing it's patriotic to pay more. The proposal could raise £10bn annually, but faces political and economic debate.
Politics
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, has proposed a major overhaul of business taxes, including replacing business rates with a land value tax and cutting taxes for pubs and live music venues. The plan aims to boost local economy and support struggling sectors.
Politics
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) called on Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) to resign during a heated exchange over U.S. troop casualties in Iran, accusing Waltz of supporting policies that led to deaths. The confrontation highlights ongoing partisan tensions over Middle East policy.
Politics
Barack Obama criticized JD Vance for his anti-immigration rhetoric, highlighting the hypocrisy given Vance's wife Usha is the daughter of Indian immigrants. The remarks have sparked debate on citizenship and political consistency.
Politics
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Manila to discuss ending the Ukraine war. Rubio said 'new ideas' are needed but no quick deal is expected, marking a rare high-level US-Russia dialogue amid ongoing conflict.
Politics
Arizona will elect its first lieutenant governor in 2026 after a 2022 ballot measure. Governor Katie Hobbs and Republican candidate Andy Biggs must nominate running mates by September 4, 2024, ahead of the general election.
Politics
Three major U.S. airports are moving to replace TSA agents with private security under a new federal program, sparking debate over efficiency, cost, and security standards.
World
The U.S. has deployed a B-1 bomber amid intensifying attacks on Iran, as the conflict enters its 12th straight night of strikes. President Trump has threatened to hit Iranian bridges and power plants if Iran disrupts the Strait of Hormuz, deepening fears of a broader war and oil trade disruption.
Politics
前香港民主党主席胡志伟近日前往英国，在机场一度被扣留并面临遣返，但最终成功入境。事件引发关注，涉及英国对香港政治人物的入境政策及BNO护照问题。
Politics
UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced that Andy Burnham's government will prioritise military spending over other areas, emphasising cutting waste and maximising value for money. The move is part of a new defence plan that promises economic benefits for regions like the South West.
World
The wreckage of a Pan Am flight that crashed in the Atlantic Ocean in 1952 has been discovered by a deep-sea exploration team. The plane, a Boeing 377 Stratocruiser named Clipper Endeavor, was found 2,000 miles off the coast of Brazil, resolving a decades-old mystery.