Iran condemns fresh US strikes as ceasefire violation

Iran has accused the United States of committing a “gross violation” of the ceasefire after American forces launched air strikes on missile sites and boats in southern Iran. The US Central Command said the attacks were “self defence strikes” aimed at protecting troops from Iranian threats near the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran warned it would respond to what it called “aggressive and unjustified actions”, raising fears of renewed escalation that could derail ongoing peace talks.

Internet access slowly restored in Iran after months-long shutdown

Internet services are gradually returning in Iran nearly three months after authorities imposed a nationwide blackout following the outbreak of war with the US and Israel. Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref described the move as the “first step” towards restoring online access. Monitoring groups confirmed partial connectivity, though many networks remain offline. The blackout is among the longest national internet shutdowns recorded globally.

Four killed after train crashes into school minibus in Belgium

Two children and two adults have died after a train collided with a school minibus at a level crossing in northern Belgium. Authorities said the barriers were already down when the driver attempted to cross the tracks in Buggenhout. Five other children remain in critical but stable condition. The bus was transporting pupils to a special education school.

China executes man convicted of poisoning gaming billionaire

China has executed Xu Yao for the murder of billionaire gaming executive Lin Qi, founder of Yoozoo Games. Xu was convicted of poisoning Lin in 2020 after reportedly becoming disgruntled over business disputes linked to the Netflix adaptation of the sci fi series 3 Body Problem. The court described the crime as “extremely despicable”.

Inflation fears drag down US consumer confidence

US consumer confidence weakened in May as concerns over inflation linked to the Iran conflict weighed on households. A report by the Conference Board showed Americans remained pessimistic about the labour market and broader economy, adding to signs of growing dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump’s handling of economic issues.

AFRICA

Ramaphosa challenges report that reopened impeachment threat

Cyril Ramaphosa, the president of South Africa, has launched a legal challenge against a parliamentary report that revived calls for impeachment over the “Farmgate” scandal. The report alleged Ramaphosa may have committed misconduct linked to cash stolen from his private farm. The president denies wrongdoing and argues the panel misinterpreted evidence against him.

Sonko elected Senegal parliament speaker after PM dismissal

Ousmane Sonko, former Senegal prime minister has been elected speaker of parliament days after being dismissed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The appointment positions Sonko at the centre of Senegal’s political crisis following months of tensions between the former allies over economic policy and debt management.

Trump raises refugee cap to admit more white South Africans

President Trump has increased the US refugee admissions ceiling by 10,000 to allow more white South Africans of Afrikaner descent into the country. The administration claims Afrikaners face racially motivated violence, a position strongly disputed by the South African government and critics who accuse Washington of applying selective refugee standards.

Kenya reshuffles Ruto security team after rally breach

Kenya’s police chief has overhauled President William Ruto’s security detail after a man breached security and briefly reached the president during a public event. Video footage showed the man approaching Ruto on stage before being restrained by bodyguards. Authorities described the incident as a serious security lapse and announced new investigations into the breach.