Simon Hamalienko

U.S. forces conducted approximately 140 strikes on Iranian military targets after IRGC forces attacked a Cyprus‑flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Iran to close the strategic waterway. CENTCOM said the strikes targeted missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, ammunition facilities and communication networks to reduce Iran’s capacity to threaten commercial shipping. Iran responded with strikes on Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE and announced the strait would remain closed until U.S. actions cease. The U.S. reported continued commercial vessel transits and highlighted its role in securing maritime passage since May.

Sixteen children were found in severely unsafe conditions in a home in Hamden, Ohio, prompting urgent medical treatment and the arrest of four adults on felony child endangerment charges. Authorities said injuries were severe enough that two children required transport to trauma centers. Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson described the scene as the worst of his career, while prosecutors confirmed serious physical harm allegations. The investigation is ongoing as the suspects await their initial court appearance.

A 62-year-old contractor was fatally crushed by a 10‑tonne lift counterweight at the former Sharp Sakai Plant in Osaka during demolition work. Emergency responders initially believed the lift itself had fallen but found the counterweight had detached and struck the worker. Authorities suspect a broken chain linking the lift car and counterweight and have opened an investigation into the cause.

Quiz will close its remaining 37 UK stores by the end of June after entering administration for the second time in a year. Administrators from Interpath Advisory are managing the shutdown, with several branches already closing and others scheduled to follow in the coming days. Over 100 jobs were previously identified as at risk, while concessions inside New Look and Matalan will continue to operate. Administrators thanked staff for their professionalism as the chain winds down permanently.

Security at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium stopped a fan attempting a pitch invasion during the USA’s 4-1 World Cup win over Paraguay, tackling him before he reached the field. Footage shows the man hesitating on a ledge before leaping directly into waiting security personnel. Spectators and social media users mocked the failed attempt, with some suggesting it was a planned stunt by a streamer.

Alton Towers’ new Bluey-themed rollercoaster is described as a surprisingly thrilling addition to CBeebies Land, attracting long queues and enthusiastic fans, including international visitors. Height restrictions caused some confusion among parents, but play areas in the queue helped ease waiting times. The ride delivers more speed and excitement than expected, completing two circuits and appealing to both children and adults. Staff assistance for guests with additional needs is commended. The attraction is seen as a significant boost for CBeebies Land and a strong draw for Bluey fans.

Georgian striker Jaba Dvali, the first player to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League, has died aged 41 following a reported heart attack. Tributes were issued by former clubs Dinamo Tbilisi and FC Zestafoni, highlighting his contributions during successful periods in Georgian football. Dvali, who earned one cap for Georgia and also played for Qarabag, concluded his career in 2022 and later served in leadership and youth coaching roles at Zestafoni.

An Austrian court convicted 21-year-old Beran A of plotting a terror attack targeting Taylor Swift concertgoers in Vienna, sentencing him to 15 years in prison. Authorities said he planned to use knives or homemade explosives outside the Ernst Happel Stadium, leading to the cancellation of Swift’s three scheduled August 2024 shows. The defendant admitted to the charges and apologised briefly in court, while fans expressed disappointment after travelling to Vienna for the Eras Tour.

Armed intruders reportedly entered Alain Prost’s home in Nyon, Switzerland, assaulting him and forcing a family member to open a safe that was emptied. The attackers threatened the family before fleeing, with authorities considering the incident part of a pattern of organised groups targeting wealthy residents and luxury items around Lake Geneva. Prost, a four-time Formula One world champion, sustained a head injury but remains active in the racing community.

A proposal by US special envoy Paolo Zampolli urges replacing Iran with Italy in the 2026 World Cup, a move aimed at easing tensions between Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following disputes tied to the Iran conflict. Zampolli claims to have raised the idea directly with Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, arguing Italy’s football pedigree warrants its inclusion despite failing to qualify. Trump previously suggested Iran’s participation could endanger its players, while FIFA maintains that Iran, having qualified, is expected to compete. With ongoing conflict in Iran and the tournament approaching, uncertainty remains over Iran’s final participation.

A Melbourne Victory vs Newcastle Jets match in Melbourne was briefly halted when a large flock of seagulls swarmed the pitch during a late free-kick, drawing widespread online attention. Despite the distraction, the match ended 2-2, and both teams avoided discussing the bird intrusion afterward. Victory manager Arthur Diles focused on his team’s performance, expressing frustration at missed points but confidence in their overall play.

A surgical unit at Queen Silvia Children’s Hospital in Gothenburg was evacuated after 16 staff members developed symptoms resembling allergic reactions, including headaches, itchy eyes and fever. Operations were relocated within the hospital while the affected area undergoes cleaning and testing. Health and regional officials confirmed the incident, though the source of the outbreak remains unknown.

Gunmen reportedly linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel stormed Guadalajara International Airport hours after cartel leader El Mencho was killed in a Mexican military operation. Videos show panicked crowds fleeing as armed men fired weapons, prompting lockdowns and evacuations across the facility. The attack followed widespread unrest in the region, including fires, blockades, and property damage. Federal forces and the National Guard were deployed as authorities described the situation as extremely volatile.

Sir Mark Tully, a longtime BBC correspondent and former New Delhi bureau chief, has died at 90. He reported on major events across South Asia and later presented BBC Radio 4’s religious and spiritual programme Something Understood. Tributes from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BBC leaders praised his pioneering foreign reporting, deep connection to India and thoughtful broadcasting style. He was honoured in both the UK and India, receiving a knighthood and multiple civilian awards.

Two trains carrying about 600 passengers struck a broken-down Ford Focus stranded on a level crossing in Błonie, Poland. The first Intercity train pushed the vehicle onto a second track, where it was hit again and caught fire. All passengers were safely evacuated and no casualties have been confirmed. Police stated the driver attempted to push the vehicle off the tracks but was unable to move it in time.

Footage from Bangkok’s Nana area shows a woman wielding a knife and lunging at passers-by before bystanders blocked the taxi she entered and alerted the driver. Witness accounts describe several attempted attacks and a possible stabbing of a boy. The crowd prevented her escape until a police officer entered the taxi and detained her with assistance from another driver.

A mass shooting at a child’s birthday party in Stockton, California left four people dead and ten injured, with police treating the incident as a targeted attack. Authorities launched a manhunt for the at-large suspect while urging the public to provide information. Local officials, including the vice mayor, district attorney, and mayor, expressed distress and called for cooperation. California’s governor was briefed as concerns grew that the death toll could rise.

Albanian pop star Shpat Kasapi died at age 40 after a sudden heart attack in Monza, Italy, while traveling with his wife and young son. His wife, Selvije Jao, shared an emotional tribute detailing his final moments. Kasapi was a prominent figure in Albanian and Kosovan music with several hit songs and a strong online following. Tributes poured in from public figures, including North Macedonian mayor Izet Mexhiti, highlighting his artistic legacy and impact on the regional music scene.

Jeremy Renner discusses maintaining an amicable co‑parenting relationship with ex‑wife Sonni Pacheco despite past allegations she made during their custody dispute. He reiterates his denial of the claims, reflects on how public scrutiny affected him, and says the two now get along well while sharing custody of their daughter Ava.

Increased solar flare activity at the peak of the Sun’s cycle is expected to raise UV levels across the UK, increasing the risk of rapid sunburn and contributing to a forecasted heatwave that could push temperatures toward 31C. Meteorologists warn that recent strong solar eruptions have already produced unusually high spring UV ratings, while extended forecasts show widespread warmth developing from next week. Betting markets have shortened odds on this summer becoming the hottest on record, and long‑range forecasters highlight strong model agreement pointing to sustained high pressure and the potential for significant heat into early June.

A 19-year-old woman from Sunderland required surgery after a spider bite on her thigh became severely infected following several days of increasing pain and swelling. After multiple visits to A&E, she was eventually treated at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where the wound was drained and she was placed on a drip. The infection had developed into an abscess that burst twice before surgery. A medical director from the local NHS trust stated that appropriate care had been provided and invited her to discuss any concerns directly.

A kitchen and bedroom store in Morley, West Yorkshire received an abusive anonymous voicemail from a woman upset that Christmas banners were still displayed in March. Staff at Hytal Kitchens explained the decorations remained up due to adverse weather, a busy season and the need for a cherry picker to remove them. After posting the recording on Facebook, the store received supportive and humorous responses from followers encouraging them to keep the decorations up year‑round.

A family expressed outrage after learning that their son’s killer, Richard Mortimer, was released from prison without their knowledge, allegedly to avoid spoiling their Christmas. Mortimer, convicted of murdering 12-year-old Steven Mullins in 1982, was freed after 34 years, with restrictions barring him from Kirklees and Wakefield but not Leeds, close to the family’s home. The parents, convinced Mortimer remains dangerous, criticized the parole process and lack of transparency. Their MP, Paula Sherriff, requested an investigation, while the Justice Secretary agreed to review the matter.

A homeless man identified as Rob Lynski was found with severe head injuries in Doncaster after an alleged attack involving a padlock and chain. He remains in hospital in stable condition, with concerns about potential brain damage. A local outreach worker described the violence as part of the dangers faced by vulnerable individuals living on the streets. South Yorkshire Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for information.

A mother in West Yorkshire received a quote from a heating company that included a derogatory remark written by a salesman after she asked for details on promised savings. The salesman had already missed two appointments before sending the quote containing the insult. Her husband filed a formal complaint, prompting the company to distance itself from the subcontractor, suspend him, and issue an apology while attempting to contact the family to resolve the matter.

A stepfather challenged Kepier School after his 12‑year‑old stepdaughter was assigned to write a letter explaining why she was converting to Islam. He argued the task was inappropriate and not suitable for schoolwork, despite being told it was part of the national curriculum. The school defended the assignment as part of a broader programme introducing students to various faiths. Online reaction was divided, with some users criticising the task and others noting it aligned with typical religious education activities.