Tulsi Gabbard Resigns as US Intelligence Chief Amid Family Health Crisis Tulsi Gabbard has announced her resignation from the role of US director of national intelligence after her husband was diagnosed with bone cancer. She said her family now needs her full attention during a difficult time. Her resignation will officially take effect on 30 June. President Donald Trump confirmed that Aaron Lukas, the principal deputy director, will serve as acting intelligence chief after her departure. Gabbard Says Family Comes First In her resignation letter, Gabbard explained that her husband Abraham is preparing for a serious medical battle in the coming months. She said she could not continue managing one of the country’s most demanding national security positions while supporting her husband through treatment. Trump praised Gabbard for her work in the administration and said she had served the country with dedication. He also expressed confidence that her husband would recover successfully. Growing Tensions Over Iran Policy Gabbard remained one of Trump’s strongest political allies during the 2024 presidential campaign. She later became a key figure in the administration after taking charge of US intelligence operations in early 2025. However, tensions reportedly increased inside the administration over the conflict with Iran. Gabbard has often supported a less aggressive foreign policy and previously warned against deep military involvement overseas. Questions about Iran’s nuclear program also placed her under political pressure. During congressional hearings, lawmakers challenged differences between intelligence reports and statements made by the White House regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities. At one point, Trump publicly rejected Gabbard’s assessment that Iran was not actively building a nuclear weapon. He insisted Iran was very close to developing one and used that argument to defend US military action. Senior Officials Continue Leaving Administration Gabbard becomes the fourth Cabinet level official to leave the Trump administration this year. Earlier departures included Kristi Noem, Pam Bondi, and Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Her resignation also follows the earlier exit of former National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent, who reportedly disagreed with the administration’s direction on Iran policy. Despite earlier disagreements, Gabbard later publicly supported Trump’s authority as commander in chief and defended his decisions regarding national security threats. What Happens Next? Aaron Lukas will temporarily oversee the Office of the Director of National Intelligence while the administration prepares to nominate a permanent replacement. Gabbard has not announced her future political plans. For now, she says her focus will remain on supporting her husband and family during his treatment.
PoliticsUnited States

Tulsi Gabbard Resigns as US Intelligence Chief Amid Family Health Crisis

Tulsi Gabbard has announced her resignation from the role of US director of national intelligence after her husband was diagnosed with bone cancer. She said her family now needs her…

The World Health Organization has raised the public health risk of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo from “high” to “very high” as infections continue to spread across the country. Health officials reported nearly 750 suspected Ebola cases and 177 suspected deaths linked to the outbreak. The virus strain involved in this outbreak is the rare Bundibugyo species, which currently has no approved vaccine. WHO Raises Alert Level WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the updated risk assessment during a health briefing in Geneva. He said the national threat level in DR Congo is now considered “very high,” while the regional risk across Africa remains “high.” However, the global risk is still classified as “low.” According to health officials, 82 Ebola cases have already been confirmed in DR Congo, including seven confirmed deaths. Rare Ebola Strain Creates Concern The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola worries experts because researchers have limited tools to fight it. Unlike other Ebola types, this rare species does not yet have a proven vaccine. Ebola is a dangerous viral disease that usually spreads from infected animals to humans. Fruit bats are believed to be the natural carriers of the virus. In some cases, outbreaks begin after people handle or consume infected animals. Although the Bundibugyo strain is considered less deadly than some other Ebola variants, it still kills nearly one third of infected patients. Oxford Scientists Working on New Vaccine Scientists at University of Oxford are currently developing a new vaccine to target the Bundibugyo strain. Researchers believe the vaccine could enter clinical trials within the next two to three months. The team is using technology similar to the one used to create the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine. Experts have already started animal testing in Oxford to study the vaccine’s effectiveness. However, researchers say they still need further testing before confirming whether the vaccine works safely in humans. India Could Help Produce Vaccine The Serum Institute of India is expected to help mass produce the vaccine once scientists provide medical grade materials. Meanwhile, another experimental Bundibugyo vaccine is also under development. Early reports suggest researchers may need six to nine months before they can begin testing that vaccine. Uganda Monitoring Situation Closely Health officials also confirmed two Ebola cases and one death in neighbouring Uganda. Authorities said both infected individuals had recently travelled from DR Congo. Despite the cases, WHO described the situation in Uganda as stable and said officials continue to monitor the spread carefully.
Health

Ebola Risk Raised to ‘Very High’ in DR Congo as Cases Continue to Rise

The World Health Organization has raised the public health risk of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo from “high” to “very high” as infections continue to spread…

The Batman Part II Begins Early Work in Liverpool as Gotham Comes to Life Again Liverpool is once again stepping into the role of Gotham City as early preparations begin for The Batman Part II. Gotham Police cars, yellow taxis, and film vehicles were seen across key parts of the city, including near Queensway Tunnel and outside St George’s Hall. The sequel, directed by Matt Reeves, is expected to continue the dark world introduced in the 2022 hit The Batman, starring Robert Pattinson. The new film is scheduled for a cinema release in October 2027 and is expected to feature Scarlett Johansson and Charles Dance. Early Filming Activity in Liverpool This week, film vehicles were spotted around central Liverpool, giving fans a first look at the production returning to the city. A damaged Gotham Police cruiser was also seen near Queensway Tunnel, adding to the growing buzz. Sources indicate that this stage of activity is part of a technical recce. The production team is not filming full scenes yet. Instead, they are testing locations and preparing for the main shoot. Principal photography is expected to start next month. Liverpool Returns as Gotham City Liverpool has already served as Gotham City in the earlier film. One of the most memorable scenes showed Batman flying past the Liver Building, which stood in for the Gotham City Police Department headquarters. The city has become a popular filming hub for major productions. Recent projects include a four part Beatles biopic directed by Sam Mendes, along with TV dramas such as Hamburg Days, The Cage, and This City is Ours. In 2025, the spin off Clayface was also filmed in Liverpool. Several scenes were shot around Liverpool Crown Court in Derby Square, with release planned for October.
Entertainment

The Batman Part II Begins Early Work in Liverpool as Gotham Comes to Life Again

Liverpool is once again stepping into the role of Gotham City as early preparations begin for The Batman Part II. Gotham Police cars, yellow taxis, and film vehicles were seen…

An outbreak of violence erupted at a hospital in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after the death of a young man suspected of having Ebola. Family members and friends tried to take his body for burial but were stopped by health workers following strict safety rules to prevent infection. The situation quickly escalated. People in the crowd began throwing objects at the facility. Several tents used for isolation and treatment were set on fire. The incident took place at Rwampara General Hospital near Bunia in Ituri province, where most Ebola cases have been recorded. Police responded by firing warning shots to disperse the crowd and regain control of the area. Community reaction and confusion Witnesses said the deceased was a well known local football player. His mother believed he had died from typhoid rather than Ebola, which added to the tension. Local leaders reported that many people in the area do not trust official information about the virus. Some residents believe Ebola is not real or think it is linked to outside organizations and health programs for financial gain. Officials said this lack of trust and awareness is making the response more difficult, especially in remote communities. Medical response and security measures Health workers explained that Ebola burial protocols are essential because the virus remains highly contagious after death. Safe handling of bodies is necessary to prevent further spread. During the unrest, one healthcare worker was injured by stones thrown from the crowd. Medical staff were placed under military protection while security forces restored order at the hospital. Several treatment tents were destroyed in the fire, and at least one body prepared for burial was lost in the chaos. Government response Authorities described the situation as very serious and concerning for public safety. Officials stated that efforts are being increased to improve communication with local communities and to rebuild trust in health services. They emphasized the need for better public awareness so that families understand why strict medical procedures are required during outbreaks.
Health

Angry crowd sets Ebola treatment tents on fire in eastern Congo

An outbreak of violence erupted at a hospital in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after the death of a young man suspected of having Ebola. Family members and friends tried…

Indian Bride Death in Bhopal Sparks Dowry Death Investigation and Public Outcry Case overview A 33 year old woman, Twisha Sharma, was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal on 12 May, just five months after her marriage to lawyer Samarth Singh. The case has drawn intense public and media attention in India. Dowry related deaths are a persistent issue in the country, but this case has stood out because of the high profile background of those involved and the conflicting claims from both families. Allegations from the victim’s family Twisha’s family alleges she was subjected to harassment and torture over dowry demands. They believe she was murdered and have accused her husband and his mother, retired judge Giribala Singh, of involvement. They have also refused to perform the final rites and requested a second post mortem after reviewing the initial findings. Defence from the accused side Giribala Singh has rejected all allegations. She says the claims are false and insists Twisha had been dealing with mental health challenges. She also claims Twisha died by suicide. According to her, the situation has turned hostile, and the family is facing public anger and threats. Police investigation and legal action Police have registered a dowry death case and are investigating whether the death was suicide or murder. Samarth Singh is currently absconding. Authorities have issued a lookout notice and announced a reward for information leading to his arrest. Giribala Singh has been granted anticipatory bail. However, Samarth Singh’s bail request was rejected, and he has been ordered to surrender by 23 May. Autopsy findings and court action The initial autopsy report reviewed by officials suggested hanging as the cause of death. However, it also mentioned signs of injuries before death, raising further questions. Following a request from the family, the court has approved a second post mortem to reassess the cause of death. Media attention and public reaction The case has triggered continuous media coverage and public debate. Online campaigns calling for justice for Twisha Sharma have also emerged, adding to the pressure on investigators.
Crime and Justice

Indian Bride Death in Bhopal Sparks Dowry Death Investigation and Public Outcry

Case overview A 33 year old woman, Twisha Sharma, was found dead at her matrimonial home in Bhopal on 12 May, just five months after her marriage to lawyer Samarth…

Lupita Nyong o Responds to Casting Criticism in The Odyssey Actress Pushes Back on Helen of Troy Casting Debate Lupita Nyong o has responded to criticism surrounding her casting as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey. She has faced backlash online, with some critics arguing about the choice of a Black actress for the role drawn from Greek mythology. Elon Musk was among those who publicly questioned the casting. Nyong o addressed the discussion in an interview with Elle, stressing that the story is mythological and not tied to modern ideas of representation. She said the film reflects a broad and global cast and supports the director’s creative vision. Mythological Story and Creative Vision Nyong o explained that The Odyssey is based on ancient myth, not historical documentation. She highlighted that the production aims to present a wide range of actors to reflect a global storytelling approach. She expressed confidence in Nolan’s direction and said she stands behind his interpretation of the epic. According to her, the film’s scale and world spanning narrative justify a diverse cast. Focus on Work, Not Debate The actress also made it clear that she is not focusing on defending herself from criticism. She said she does not spend time reacting to every comment and accepts that opinions will continue regardless of her response. Nyong o added that being part of The Odyssey feels significant because of its epic scale and cultural reach. She described the project as large in scope and emotionally important for everyone involved. Industry Reaction and Ongoing Debate The casting has sparked wider debate about representation in historical and mythological adaptations. Supporters argue that myth based stories allow creative freedom in casting. Critics believe traditional depictions should remain unchanged. The discussion continues to grow across entertainment and social platforms as anticipation builds for the film’s release.
Entertainment

Lupita Nyong o Responds to Casting Criticism in The Odyssey

Actress Pushes Back on Helen of Troy Casting Debate Lupita Nyong o has responded to criticism surrounding her casting as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey.…

Italian island party attended by Mick Jagger shut down by police
Entertainment

Italian island wrap party stopped by police after music rule breach

A celebration on the island of Stromboli was interrupted by police after officers enforced a local rule that restricts music on Wednesdays. The event was a wrap party for a…

Amazon UK Boss Says Young Unemployment Is a System Issue
EconomicsUnited States

Amazon UK Boss Says Young Unemployment Is a System Issue

Youth unemployment in the United Kingdom has reached a worrying level. Nearly one million young people are not in education, employment, or training. Many businesses say the issue is not…

Kyle Busch, a two time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has died at 41 after a sudden illness, with tributes pouring in from across motorsport.
Sports

NASCAR Champion Kyle Busch Dies at 41 After Sudden Illness

Sudden death of Kyle Busch Kyle Busch, a two time champion in the NASCAR Cup Series, has died at the age of 41 after a sudden illness. His family, along…

The 21st Century Brain Guide to Smarter Thinking in the Age of AI Introduction: A changing world and the human brain The world is changing fast because of artificial intelligence and new technology. Many people feel overwhelmed and wish they could upgrade their thinking ability to keep up. Our brains have not changed much since ancient humans. In fact, research suggests that human brains may have become slightly smaller over the last ten thousand years. Even so, the brain still has strong potential to adapt and grow with the right habits. Why neuroscience matters in the AI age AI systems are built using ideas from neuroscience. Scientists studied how the brain works and used that knowledge to create modern intelligent systems. Now researchers are looking back at the brain to understand how humans can improve thinking skills. This creates a two way connection between technology and biology that can help people strengthen decision making and creativity. Hannah Critchlow and the idea of mental flexibility Neuroscientist Hannah Critchlow from the University of Cambridge explores this idea in her book The 21st Century Brain. She focuses on the mental skills people need to succeed in a world shaped by AI. She explains that she wrote the book for personal growth as well. She also wrote it to help older generations keep their minds active and to support children in developing strong thinking abilities early in life. Critchlow highlights mental flexibility as one of the most important skills for the future. It helps people adjust to change, solve problems, and make better decisions in uncertain situations. Flipping the idea of intelligence and AI Critchlow suggests a simple shift in thinking. Instead of only focusing on how AI is changing society, people should also focus on how neuroscience can improve human thinking. AI comes from studying the brain, but humans can also learn from AI development. This approach can help people unlock stronger cognitive abilities and use their natural intelligence more effectively. How to future proof your brain Simple lifestyle choices can support brain health and creativity. Spending time in nature, for example, can improve focus and help new ideas form more easily. Learning new skills, staying curious, and practicing flexible thinking can also support long term brain health. These habits help the mind adapt to rapid changes in technology and society.
Information TechnologyTechnology

The 21st Century Brain Guide to Smarter Thinking in the Age of AI

A changing world and the human brain The world is changing fast because of artificial intelligence and new technology. Many people feel overwhelmed and wish they could upgrade their thinking…

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Major Waste Crime Sites Identified Authorities have published a new national watchlist highlighting illegal waste activity across England. The list includes 117 high priority sites linked to serious environmental concerns. Among them, 28 locations stand out as illegal waste super sites. Each of these contains more than 20,000 tonnes of dumped material. Officials estimate that around 700 illegal waste sites exist in total, but only the most urgent cases appear in the new list. The aim is to improve transparency and show where action is already underway. Largest Site Reaches 281,000 Tonnes The biggest site recorded is in Northwich, Cheshire. It holds about 281,000 tonnes of contaminated soil. This makes it the largest illegal waste site currently tracked. Investigations earlier this year had already identified similar large scale dumping issues in the same area. Other High Volume Locations Across England Several other major sites appear on the watchlist. These include locations in Wigan and Sheffield, which together hold close to 40,000 tonnes of waste. Additional large sites are spread across the country. Examples include Burnley, Retford, Scunthorpe, and St Austell, each holding between 50,000 and 99,000 tonnes. Other significant locations include areas in Suffolk, Essex, West Sussex, Cambridgeshire, and Worcestershire. One site in Pershore contains up to 199,000 tonnes of waste. Clean Up Work Already Underway Cleanup operations are already taking place at selected locations such as Hoads Wood in Kent and Kidlington in Oxfordshire. These sites were chosen because they pose serious environmental risks and affect nearby communities. Authorities confirm that cleanup decisions depend on strict risk based criteria set by the government. Funding Limits Slow Wider Action While some sites receive government funded cleanup support, many others remain without immediate action. Officials explain that limited funding restricts large scale removal work. As a result, only the most dangerous or high impact sites are prioritized. The Environment Agency continues to monitor all listed locations and respond where risks escalate.
Nearly 30 Illegal Waste Super Sites Identified Across England in New Watchlist
Crime and Justice
UK Heatwave Brings Rising Temperatures and Health Alerts Across England and Wales Temperatures Climb Across the UK Several parts of the United Kingdom recorded warm weather as temperatures continued to rise. Coningsby and Kew Gardens both reached 28.3C. Wellesbourne recorded 28.2C, showing similar heat levels across central and southern regions. Cardiff reached 25.8C. This made it the warmest day of the year so far for Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland stayed cooler. Temperatures there stayed between 17C and 22C due to cloud cover. Health Alerts Issued Across England The UK Health Security Agency issued amber heat health alerts for the Midlands, eastern England, and south east England. Officials raised these warnings from yellow earlier in the day. An amber alert signals possible pressure on health and social care services. It also highlights higher risk for children and people aged over 65. Other parts of England remain under a yellow alert. This means vulnerable people may still face health impacts from the heat. Heatwave Conditions Expected Meteorologists expect some areas to reach heatwave levels by midweek. A heatwave is declared when temperatures stay above a local threshold for three straight days. Conditions are expected to remain more moderate in northern regions due to cloud cover. Travel and Event Safety Advice Wembley Stadium has advised football fans attending English Football League play off finals to stay cautious. Organizers recommend light clothing, regular hydration, and protection from direct sun exposure.
UK Heatwave Brings Rising Temperatures and Health Alerts Across England and Wales
Weather
Government Reviews Teen Rape Sentences After Public Outcry
Government Reviews Teen Rape Sentences After Public Outcry
Crime and Justice
Think Outside the Bots: How AI May Affect Creativity and Critical Thinking
Standard Chartered chief apologises after AI job remarks spark backlash
Economics Information Technology
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