England beat Pakistan by eight wickets in the third Test at Edgbaston, achieving a 3-0 series whitewash, with Joe Root scoring 62 not out and Jordan Cox contributing 59 not out as they chased a modest target of 130. This victory marked England's first Test series win since 2024, while Pakistan's woes continued as they have now lost 16 of their last 21 matches and find themselves at the bottom of the World Test Championship table. Despite a brief fightback from debutant fast bowler Razaullah, who scored 81 runs off 63 balls with nine sixes, Pakistan's performance throughout the series was criticized, leading to significant team changes, including the sacking of their head coach.
During his visit to Dublin, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his desire for a unified Ireland, stating it would be "fantastic" and asserting that "it's going to happen eventually," while British Prime Minister Andy Burnham affirmed that a referendum on Northern Ireland's departure from the UK was "off the table." Burnham emphasized that he was unaware of any majority public support for a new referendum and that the decision ultimately lies with the British government, following the terms of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. Protests against Trump's visit occurred in Dublin, driven by various concerns including his foreign policies and the high costs of his presence, including security expenses that locals argue could be better allocated.
Six Nigerian nationals linked to the Black Axe criminal network were extradited to the US for allegedly swindling over 100 American women out of more than $6 million through online romance scams. Arrested in Cape Town in 2021, they face charges of wire fraud and money laundering, with their handover facilitated by South African police and Interpol. A recent Interpol operation targeting West African crime networks resulted in the arrest of 58 individuals and identified 263 suspects involved in similar scams, highlighting a significant increase in global cyber-enabled financial fraud.
Jeremy Thomas, the esteemed British film producer known for works like The Last Emperor and Sexy Beast, has passed away at 77, peacefully at his home in Oxfordshire. His notable achievements include producing The Last Emperor, which won nine Oscars including Best Picture, and holding significant roles such as chair of the British Film Institute and winning a BAFTA for outstanding British contribution to cinema. Throughout his career, which began in the early 1970s, Thomas collaborated with renowned directors like Bernardo Bertolucci, David Cronenberg, and Nicolas Roeg, leaving a substantial legacy in the British film industry.
Houthi forces have taken control of Mayun Island, a 13 sq km volcanic island, thereby securing a strategic foothold in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, crucial for global shipping traffic. The Houthis now control Yemen’s entire Red Sea coastline and posed a significant threat to maritime traffic, stating they would block vessels linked to Saudi Arabia while claiming general shipping would remain safe. Between November 2023 and mid-2025, the Houthis attacked over 100 commercial ships in the Red Sea, targeting those connected to Israel or its allies.
An Israeli soldier shot Palestinian man Qassem Hussam in the leg during a confrontation between settlers and villagers in Faqqua, West Bank, as settlers grazed livestock on Palestinian-owned land. Hussam was taken to the hospital with light-to-moderate injuries, and the incident has raised concerns about the Israeli military's response to rising settler violence, which has prompted calls for sanctions from the UK and other countries. On the same day, Israeli forces also conducted raids in Jenin and Bethlehem, arresting six individuals and injuring a 14-year-old boy, highlighting ongoing tensions in the area.
The Nashville airport board unanimously voted to rename the airport in honor of Dolly Parton, who is estimated to contribute $1.8 billion annually to Tennessee through her Dollywood theme park. The name change, supported by Nashville’s mayor and Tennessee’s governor, will require new signage and updates across the airport’s 4,500-acre property. While the final name for the airport has yet to be determined, the move seeks to celebrate Parton’s significant contributions to the state and her legacy in music and philanthropy.
During his two-day visit to Ireland, Donald Trump expressed his desire to see a united Ireland, stating it may as well happen now as he believes it will eventually. He remarked that unification would be a “fantastic” outcome, despite acknowledging the potential for controversy surrounding his comments. This endorsement of unification drew sharp criticism from UK officials and Northern Ireland’s unionist leaders, emphasizing that decisions about Northern Ireland's future should be made by its people.
Iranian authorities have celebrated the Houthis' recent capture of Yemen's Red Sea coast and key coastal cities, enhancing Tehran's leverage against the United States amid ongoing tensions since February 28. The seizure of the port city of Mocha has severely impacted the Yemeni government's access to the Red Sea, with the Houthis now exercising significant control over the Bab al-Mandeb strait, allowing for potential threats to maritime navigation—reportedly, the Houthis have declared that shipping is only unsafe for Saudi vessels. The strategic gains are viewed by Iranian officials as reaffirming the Houthis' resilience and as a foundational aspect of a broader fight against Western influence in the region.
retired rugby star Gareth Thomas, who publicly announced his HIV positive status in 2019, is advocating against the stigma surrounding the virus during the International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil, with nearly 1.1 million people living with HIV, faces significant discrimination, as more than half of HIV positive individuals have experienced stigma, leading to loss of friendships and family support. Activist Welton Gabriel shared his 12-year journey of living with HIV and highlighted the ongoing fear and misunderstanding of the virus, despite advancements in treatment and prevention methods.
French champagne producers can now temporarily raise the alcohol content to 15% due to a record heatwave that resulted in exceptionally high sugar levels in grapes, exceeding the previous 13% cap. This year marks the earliest harvest in the Champagne region's history, beginning in early August, with industry officials noting that extreme weather conditions like spring frosts and multiple heatwaves have altered the growing cycle. The Comite Champagne anticipates that such unusual harvests could become the norm in the next 10 to 15 years as climate change continues to impact the region, potentially increasing the likelihood of hotter weather in the future.
At a Republican convention in Dallas, during Ted Cruz's speech, a crowd member repeatedly shouted that some Democrats should be shot, specifically targeting New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani and Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. Cruz, who did not address or denounce the outbursts, accused Mamdani of wanting to seize production means, claimed El-Sayed felt obligated to follow Sharia law, and characterized Texas Senate candidate James Talarico as wanting to dismantle capitalism. In the closely watched Senate race, a CNN poll shows El-Sayed leading former congressman Mike Rogers 47% to 44%, highlighting the political tensions amidst ongoing calls for violence against political opponents.
Saudi Arabia has closed its 1,200 km (745 miles) East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack launched from Iraq, which has exacerbated tensions in the region and prompted Iraq to dismiss a military commander involved in the incident. The pipeline has been crucial for Saudi Arabia, exporting 4% to 5% of global oil supply, and was temporarily shut down as a precaution following injuries and damage from the attack. Amid escalating conflict, Houthi rebels in Yemen have seized control of the entire Red Sea coast and the strategic city of Mokha, leading to military responses from Saudi-backed forces.
The upcoming Manchester derby on September 13, 2026, will feature Manchester United hosting Manchester City at Old Trafford, with City currently sitting atop the Premier League table with nine points after four wins across all competitions. United, struggling with a mixed start, sits 11th in the standings with just four points from their first three league games, including a defeat and a draw. Erling Haaland has been a standout for City, scoring five goals in four games, making him the club's third-highest all-time goalscorer with 167 goals.
Bulgarian authorities are investigating a fire at an munitions storage facility operated by arms maker EMCO, which occurred on Friday night, following a similar incident at another EMCO site in August. While the full extent of the damage is not yet known, no casualties have been reported, and local police confirmed that there is no danger to the population. EMCO has denied the possibility of human error being a factor in the incident.
Calvin Klein, under the direction of Veronica Leoni, has embraced a minimalist aesthetic inspired by artist Georgia O’Keeffe, showcasing designs like a fabric-belted wrap coat and a slip dress reminiscent of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, pivoting from traditional logo-driven clothing. Michael Kors’ collection, influenced by modernist artists like Alexander Calder and Matisse, featured unique pieces such as oversized black disc earrings and a skirt inspired by Carmen Herrera, presented as a tribute to New York City's resilience on the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Tory Burch transformed her brand to focus on joy and escapism, showcasing a cheerful collection with jewel-toned dresses and adorned with a soundtrack from The Shining to reflect a current dystopian sentiment.
Cryptocurrency billionaires Christopher Harborne and Ben Delo have each donated £36 million to Reform UK, marking the largest contributions made to a UK political party. Reform leader Nigel Farage expressed gratitude for the donations amid ongoing scrutiny of the party's finances, including a Metropolitan police inquiry and a parliamentary standards investigation concerning a separate £5 million gift from Harborne. Harborne stated his donation comes with no expectations for rewards, emphasizing his commitment to supporting a party he believes can positively shape the future of Britain.
Political leaders in Maryland are demanding investigations into the actions of ICE officers who used batons against protesters during a recent operation in Frederick, where tensions escalated amidst a federal attempt to arrest a man. Approximately 200 protesters gathered to oppose ICE's presence, leading to clashes where at least two individuals were hospitalized due to injuries from the violence utilized by officers, with witnesses reporting that some officers drove their vehicles dangerously close to demonstrators. Congresswoman April McClain Delaney and local leaders have expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that no family should feel unsafe in their community and calling for immediate accountability and transparency from ICE.
The article reflects on the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, commemorating the 2,977 people who lost their lives, which included individuals from over 90 nations. It highlights the personal stories of the victims, particularly those from the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees International Union who perished in Windows on the World restaurant located atop the North Tower. The author recalls the emotional impact of that day and concludes with a tribute to the lost lives, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and connection to the diverse backgrounds of those affected.
Yemeni government forces have launched air strikes against Houthi fighters who seized complete control of the strategic shoreline along the Red Sea, including the port city of Mocha, creating a significant military escalation on the western coast. The capture of Mocha and the nearby island of Mayun has solidified the Houthis' control over the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a crucial waterway for global oil shipping, leading to nearly 46,000 people being displaced since fighting intensified earlier this week. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has temporarily closed its 1,200 km (746-mile) East-West oil pipeline following a drone attack, with investigations indicating the drones were launched from Iraq.
US President Donald Trump expressed his desire to see a unified Ireland, stating he believes it will happen eventually, while emphasizing that the UK has a say in the matter. He mentioned that the ongoing US war with Iran, which he claims began on February 28, would "end very soon," reiterating that Iran was close to acquiring a nuclear weapon, which he described as a significant threat. Additionally, Trump conveyed optimism about resolving trade issues with Canada, asserting that Canada wants to make a deal and needs to treat US farmers better regarding tariffs.
Hajj Rabhi al-Fairi, 79, and his neighbors in Gaza City rely on a rented generator to fill their water tanks, as their homes lack electricity and municipal water supplies due to damage from Israeli bombardment and ongoing conflict. The cost to rent these generators has increased from 80-90 shekels ($26-30) to about 100-120 shekels ($33-40) per hour, with families gathering to take turns using the generator to meet their basic needs. Khalil Abu Ouda, who operates a mobile generator, works 10 to 12 hours a day to accommodate the demand for water, as many residents have lost their homes and have to hire services for essential chores.
Uganda recently concluded a nine-day mourning period for King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died from cancer at age 34, with his funeral set to take place in Fort Portal. A succession dispute emerged as Oyo's cousin, Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, was chosen as the new king, despite claims of an unidentified illegitimate heir, leading to contention within the royal family and community. The burial ceremony will follow traditional customs, including the ritual of throwing nine coffee berries into the grave, as preparations are made to lay the beloved monarch to rest.
During the BRICS Summit in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the adoption of a joint declaration emphasizing cooperation to ensure the smooth flow of global trade, supply chains, and energy while expressing concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East. The declaration, which came after months of discord due to the Iran war affecting multiple BRICS members, calls for a peaceful resolution to international disputes and does not name specific countries in its condemnation of unilateral wars. BRICS now consists of 11 members representing about half of the world's population and approximately 40% of global economic output, positioning them to challenge Western political dominance and advocate for a multilateral approach in global governance.
Germany's Welt am Sonntag reported that a failed drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, involving explosives likely smuggled in from Bulgaria and Serbia, has been directly tied to Moscow's GRU military intelligence agency, with a Russian national implicated in its operational logistics. DNA traces found on the drone matched samples from a prior arson attack at a DHL facility in Leipzig, further linking the attempted attack to Russian activities. In response, Germany closed the Russian Consulate General in Bonn, while the Kremlin denied any involvement and retaliated by shutting down Goethe Institutes across Russia.
101 East examines how young Chinese are reinterpreting ancient matchmaking traditions in their search for love amid a demographic crisis characterized by record low birthrates and marriage registrations. In response to these challenges, various modern dating initiatives, including popular matchmaking events at theme parks, are emerging to encourage young people to marry and start families. The article highlights the efforts of both men and women who are blending traditional practices with contemporary approaches to dating.
The next round of U.S.-mediated negotiations between Israel and Lebanon has been postponed as Israeli forces carry out extensive strikes in southern Lebanon, including a recent detonation of 1,100 tonnes of explosives targeting a Hezbollah command center. Israeli attacks have resulted in at least 29 fatalities over the last two weeks, including 12 members of the same family in an air raid. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that negotiations will not resume until key issues like withdrawal, prisoner return, and reconstruction are addressed, while Israeli officials pledged to maintain military presence in the region to prevent Hezbollah's resurgence.
A Jamaican delegation, led by Culture Minister Olivia Grange, has formally lodged a petition to King Charles in the UK, seeking legal advice regarding slavery reparations and questioning the legality of the forced transport of Africans to Jamaica during slavery. The petition aims to address three key legal questions: the lawfulness of the transportation, its classification as a crime against humanity, and Britain's obligation for restitution, following the 1781 Zong massacre in which over 100 enslaved Africans were thrown overboard. While the delegation has sparked a debate on the legalities of transatlantic slavery, some opposition members expressed concern over not securing a meeting with the king, although Grange clarified that the plan did not include such a meeting.
US scientists are using sentinel chickens as an early warning system for mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus, which began its transmission unusually early this year, marking the highest number of cases in early summer since 2004. Delaware maintains flocks of four chickens at 20 locations statewide to detect viral activity, as the chickens can test positive for the virus without spreading it, unlike mosquitoes, and can provide more localized data for mosquito control efforts. These chickens also assist in tracking environmental patterns and predicting future outbreaks, supported by decades of collected data that enhances models for understanding disease severity.
Jerry Sidell, a registered sex offender who confessed to molesting multiple boys in the 1980s, was allowed to serve in various ministerial roles at Brookwood Church in Simpsonville, South Carolina, from 1999 until he was recently disqualified. The church's senior pastor, Bryan Jones, revealed that Sidell had been transparent about his past but emphasized that strict boundaries were set to limit his involvement with children and student ministries. In light of recent incidents involving other registered sex offenders, Brookwood has implemented new policies requiring any sex offender attending services to check in, enter through a specific door, and be escorted by security during their visit.