We hear how a man travelling the world with a cuddly duck has encouraged thousands to open up about mental health problems. Also: a roaring success for India's lions; and Kermit the Frog urges graduates to leap together.Presenter: Valerie Sanderson
Music: Iona Hampson

The Happy Pod: The unlikely duo getting men talking about mental health

The breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. 
 
Hear the most important global stories from the BBC, the most trusted name in international news. 
 
With reporters on the ground in every country, we’re always where the story is. We bring you unparalleled access and exclusive updates that you won’t get anywhere else. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. From Trump’s White House and Putin’s Kremlin, to the Ukraine War and the Israel-Gaza conflict. From Damascus to Delhi, from Silicon Valley to Singapore, from Washington DC to Wuhan. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Subscribe now and never miss a moment.Also listen to The Happy Pod, every Saturday, for the best global good news.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

The brother of Israeli hostage Evyatar David has told the BBC that a video released by Hamas shows he is a "human skeleton''. Ilay David spoke as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was reported to be preparing to expand military operations in Gaza. Also: Britain's first female spy chief Stella Rimington dies, and the new party trend in India - fake weddings.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.
Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Families accuse Hamas of deliberately starving hostages

Hundreds of ex-Israeli security officials write to President Trump, urging him to pressurize the government into ending the war in Gaza, amid reports that Prime Minister Netanyahu is seeking to expand the military offensive to free the remaining hostages. Also: A BBC investigation into child abuse in Kenya, South Korea dismantles loudspeakers on its border with North Korea to ease tensions, plus how David Attenborough's new wildlife documentary on parenthood might teach humans how to parent. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.

Israeli media reports plans to expand military offensive in Gaza

Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has visited the al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem and prayed there, violating a decades-old arrangement covering one of the most sensitive sites in the Middle East. Also: as Pope Leo addresses a million young Catholics, we meet the influencers who spread the word online, and platypus diplomacy in the Second World War.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.
Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Israeli minister sparks anger by praying at Jerusalem holy site

The family of Israeli hostage, Evyatar David, accuses Hamas of starvation as part of a propaganda campaign. Also: Russia dismisses Donald Trump's plan to deploy two submarines, and the benefits of walking Japanese style.

Family of Israeli hostage accuses Hamas of deliberate starvation

Meet the charity which is providing free breakfasts for three million children across sixteen countries. We visit a school to see how Mary's Meals is helping children to focus on learning. Their biggest programme is in Malawi in south-east Africa, and for many students there, it's a reason to stay in school. Also on the podcast, we hear from the micro-farm in Montreal growing fruit and veg for local people on low incomes. Plus a social club trying to combat loneliness in Venezuela by bringing elderly people together for a dance, and the Italians coming together to save a tiny island from developers.The Happy Pod, our weekly collection of uplifting and inspiring stories from around the world. Part of the Global News Podcast from the BBC World Service.Presenter: Ankur Desai. Music composed by Iona Hampson.

The Happy Pod: Learning begins with breakfast

President Trump says he's ordered two nuclear submarines to "be positioned in appropriate regions" in response to what he called "foolish and inflammatory" comments by Russia's former leader, Dmitry Medvedev. In a recent post, Mr Medvedev said US threats of tough sanctions on Russia over Ukraine were “a step towards war”. Mr Trump did not say if he was referring to nuclear powered or nuclear armed submarines. Also: Trump fires lead official on economic data as tariffs and weaker job growth cause market drop; Rhino horns turned radioactive to fight poachers in South Africa.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Trump moves nuclear submarines after Russian ex-president's comments

President Trump's new tariffs on more than 90 countries will come into effect next Thursday, unless trade deals are negotiated before then. Also: Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, inspects aid sites in Gaza, sacred jewels linked to the Buddha are returned to India, and the Edinburgh Festival begins.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.
Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

US announces new tariffs for dozens of countries

The United States has imposed travel restrictions on members of the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organisation, accusing them of undermining peace efforts with Israel. The US State Department said those targeted continued to support terrorism and were internationalising the conflict, for example through the International Criminal Court. Washington's special envoy Steve Witkoff, who's in Israel trying to salvage Gaza ceasefire talks, will travel to the territory on Friday where he will inspect aid distribution sites. Also: In another blow to the Pakistan opposition leader, Imran Khan, senior members of his party have been jailed for up to ten years, and scientists exploring the Pacific Ocean say they've discovered entire ecosystems of marine life at depths of over eight kilometres.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Washington has imposed new sanctions on Palestinian Authority members

Many people have been killed in Russian airstrikes on Kyiv, including a six-year-old boy and his mother. Ukrainian officials say the attacks also brought down an apartment block. It happened despite Donald Trump imposing a new deadline on President Putin to agree to a ceasefire or face fresh US sanctions. Also: Washington's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is meeting the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to try to salvage ceasefire talks and help improve the dire conditions in Gaza, and what archaeologists are learning from tattoos found on a two-and-a-half-thousand year-old mummy. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.
Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Russian strikes hit dozens of locations in the Ukrainian capital

The Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Canada plans to recognise a Palestinian state in September, becoming the third G7 nation to make such an announcement in recent days. Mr Carney said such a move would depend on democratic reforms, including the Palestinian Authority holding elections next year without Hamas. His remarks come a day after the UK announced it would recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire and other conditions and a week after France made a similar announcement. Israel has condemned the moves, calling them a reward for terrorism. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Canada follows France and UK with plan to recognise Palestinian state

Tsunami warnings have been scaled back across much of the northern Pacific after a huge earthquake off eastern Russia. The earthquake, which hit near Kamchatka Peninsula on Wednesday, is one of the most powerful ever recorded. Tsunami warnings have since been downgraded in Japan, Russia and Hawaii. Also, health officials in Gaza say seven more people have starved to death in the last twenty-four hours. And, UK gets first female Astronomer Royal in 350 years. (Credit: Photo by The Russian Academy of Sciences)

Tsunami warnings scaled back across northern Pacific

Britain's prime minister, Keir Starmer, says he'll recognise Palestinian statehood, unless Israel takes measures to end, what he called the appalling situation in Gaza. The dramatic shift in policy comes a week after a similar announcement by France. The British leader gave Israel until the UN general assembly in September to meet conditions, including taking steps towards a ceasefire. Israel's foreign ministry has condemned Britain's move - saying it constitutes an award for Hamas and harms efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

UK threatens to recognise Palestinian state

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a global hunger monitoring system, has warned that “the worst-case scenario of famine” is currently playing out in the Gaza Strip. It comes as the territory’s health ministry says 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in the enclave since Israel's offensive began. Also: floods hit Beijing; the Ukrainian hackers targeting Russia’s Aeroflot airline; farmers in the US and Mexico caught in a water crisis driven by a decades-old treaty; a gunman kills four in New York; a shaky ceasefire holds along the border with Thailand and Cambodia; the former Colombia president who’s been convicted of witness tampering; and can Greenland’s Inuit majority achieve independence?The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Worst-case scenario of famine unfolding in Gaza, says UN-backed group

For the first time, two leading Israeli human rights organisations, B'Tselem and Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, have accused their own country of committing genocide in Gaza. In reports published on Monday, they said “Israel is taking co-ordinated action to intentionally destroy Palestinian society in the Gaza Strip" and that it is “systematic” in its targeting of Gaza's healthcare infrastructure. Israel has denied the allegation and has called the case "wholly unfounded" and based on "biased and false claims". Also: The BBC’s International Editor Jeremy Bowen views Gaza from above in one of the Jordanian planes delivering aid from the sky, the investigation into a deadly mass shooting in Ecuador, and why Catholic influencers are gathering in Rome.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Israeli human rights groups accuse Israel of genocide

President Trump has acknowledged that there is real starvation in Gaza and that Israel has a responsibility for the flow of aid. Also in this podcast: Thailand and Cambodia agree a ceasefire, Google admits that its earthquake warning alerts haven't worked, the Chinese monk accused of corruption and womanising, and a BBC editor who has penned a musical satire.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.
Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment.
Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

The UN warns that it's "make or break" for malnourished Palestinians

Palestinians rushed to collect aid from lorries and airdrops after Israel pauses fighting in some areas. Also: EU and the US agree a trade deal, and Tom Lehrer, master of the subversive ditty, dies.

Humanitarian aid trickles into Gaza

The Israeli military says it's resuming airdrops of aid to Gaza. Humanitarian corridors will also be established. Also: the Indian Supreme Court issues new guidelines to tackle a rise in student suicides.

Israel to open humanitarian corridors into Gaza

The street musician whose dream of seeing Oasis came true, thanks to a stranger. He says people should never give up. Also: an amazing survival story; hope for better cancer treatment; and a very slow world championship.

The Happy Pod: Performing on the street got me Oasis tickets

Israel says it will allow aid airdrops into Gaza, as the UN says almost one in three people are going days without eating. Also: the new technology that could finally complete Gaudi's famous Sagrada Familia basilica.

Gaza aid airdrops to resume, as outrage over hunger crisis grows

Israel says it will allow Jordan and the UAE to resume aid airdrops over the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, Thailand evacuates 100,000 as clashes with Cambodia escalate. Also: sci-fi fans descend on San Diego for Comic-Con.

Israel to allow Jordan and UAE to resume Gaza aid airdrops

The United States has joined Israel in recalling its negotiators from Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha. The US envoy, Steve Witkoff, has accused Hamas of showing a lack of desire to reach a deal. Also: the wrestling legend Hulk Hogan dies aged 71.

US and Israel leave Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar

Thailand seals border with Cambodia after clashes leave at least 12 people dead. Also: a deadly plane crash in eastern Russia, and how many steps should you take each day to stay healthy?

Thai and Cambodian troops exchange fire in deadly clashes

The World Health Organization has demanded full access for aid into Gaza as well as a ceasefire, describing the situation there as "man-made mass starvation". Also: gaps in our knowledge of ancient Rome could be filled by AI.

WHO demands full access for aid into Gaza

Dozens of aid agencies accuse Israel of withholding food and say mass starvation in Gaza is spreading. Also: Donald Trump secures a trade deal with Japan, and a couple reunite with their love letters - 60 years later.

Aid agencies warn mass starvation in Gaza is spreading

In this special edition of the Global News Podcast, Nick Robinson discusses what can end the conflict in Gaza with a panel of experts and politicians.

The World Debate: What can stop the war in Gaza?

Israel has acknowledged there's been a significant drop in the amount of aid reaching Palestinians in Gaza, but insists the military has not identified famine in the territory. Also: the British heavy metal star, Ozzy Osbourne, has died aged seventy-six.

Israeli officials deny that famine is taking hold in Gaza

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry say 33 people have died of starvation in the past 48 hours. Also, former US police officer who fatally shot Breonna Taylor sentenced, and Pakistan cracks down on keeping lions as pets.

Hamas health officials: 33 die of starvation in Gaza

A statement by many foreign ministers has condemned what it calls the "drip feeding" of aid to Palestinians in Gaza. Also: a stolen 16th century painting is returned to an Italian museum.

Nearly 30 countries call for an immediate end to the war in Gaza

Aid agencies say the Israeli military's ground and air assault on Deir al-Balah in central Gaza has intensified. Also, an air force jet crashes into a school in Bangladesh, and a camel learns to walk again with a prosthetic leg.(Photo: Smoke rises during Israeli strikes amid the Israeli military operation in Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip, 21 July, 2025 Credit: Reuters)

Israel launches ground and air assault on Gaza's Deir al-Balah

Dozens of Gazans die near to an aid convoy; Israel says its troops fired warning shots but rejects Hamas death figures. Also: D-Day veteran "Papa" Jake Larson dies at 102, and how Russia indoctrinates Ukrainian children.

Dozens of Gazans die in shooting near to aid convoy

The Syrian government says it has halted sectarian clashes in Sweida despite signs it's struggling to enforce the ceasefire. Also: more than 30 die in Vietnam when a tourist boat capsizes, and the young poets of Gaza.

Syria deploys troops to enforce fragile ceasefire

We meet some of the swimmers participating in this year's swim across the Arctic Circle. Also, the groundbreaking science behind three parent babies, and the grandchildren available for hire in Bulgaria.

The Happy Pod: The thrill of swimming the Arctic Circle

Donald Trump is suing the Wall Street Journal over a report claiming he wrote a "bawdy" note to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2003. Also: a Coldplay concert embrace goes viral, and bats make a woman homeless.

Trump sues newspaper over Epstein story

British surgeon documents injuries inflicted on wounded Palestinians. Also: Gaming recruitment strategy in Ukraine, oldest ever ice offers glimpse of early Earth and boy band debut for North Korean defectors.

Patterns of injury in a Gaza war hospital

The personal details of British spies and special forces soldiers were included in one of the worst security leaks in modern UK history. Also: Rosebud - the wooden sled from Citizen Kane - sells for millions at auction.

British spies and special forces named in Afghan data breach

Dozens die in a fire at a shopping centre in the Iraqi city of Kut, opened only five days ago. Also, Syrian government forces pull out of Sweida province, and a Malian photographer whose work is displayed on local buses.

Dozens killed in Iraqi shopping centre fire

Syria says its army has begun to withdraw from the mainly Druze city of Sweida - after days of deadly clashes. Also: eight babies have been born in UK using three people's DNA to prevent genetic disease.

Syria withdrawing its army from Druze-majority Sweida city

Israel launches strikes on Syria, including the capital Damascus. Also: at least 20 people killed by crowd surge at US backed food distribution point in Gaza, and pressure grows on Donald Trump to release Epstein files.

Israel strikes Syrian military headquarters

UK government apologises to thousands of Afghans potentially at risk from Taliban after personal details leaked. Also: Trump says Ukraine shouldn’t target Moscow, and 114-year-old marathon runner dies after car accident.

Afghans moved to UK in secret scheme after data breach

In an exclusive BBC interview, President Trump says he's disappointed with President Putin but he's "not done with him”. Also: the world's biggest human imaging project, and what a tomato plant sounds like.

Trump tells BBC 'I'm not done with Putin'

The US says it will sanction Moscow's trade partners if a ceasefire in Ukraine is not reached. Also: review finds BBC Gaza documentary breached guidelines, and WHO endorses twice-yearly HIV prevention injection.

Trump gives Russia 50 days to make peace in Ukraine

As the US envoy meets President Zelensky in Kyiv, Donald Trump says the US will send Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine. Also: Bitcoin hits a new high, and a new look at Superman

Donald Trump to send Patriot air defence systems to Ukraine

The IDF has blamed a "technical error" for a Gaza strike that hit metres from the target, killing six children collecting water. Also: the prisoner who escaped hidden in a bag, and the beetles who love eating books.

Israel blames 'technical error' for Gaza children's deaths

The EU and Mexico criticise Donald Trump after he says he will impose 30% tariffs on their exports to the US. Also: why Nicaragua is replacing pavements with concrete, and the British habit of saying sorry.

EU and Mexico hit back at Trump's tariff threat

The trio hoping to soothe global tensions through musical collaboration. They mix Chinese and American songs to focus on similarities not differences. Also: helping disadvantaged teens go to the prom; and a K-pop first.Presenter: Valerie Sanderson. Music composed by Iona Hampson

The Happy Pod: The trio bringing countries together with music

A first report into the Air India crash finds fuel switches were in cut off position just after takeoff. Also, President Trump visits flood victims in Texas, and how emergency vaccines have saved thousands of lives.

Air India crash report: fuel switches cut off after takeoff

Kurdish militant PKK group begins disarming, starting a process designed to end the Turkish conflict. Also: Southern Gaza’s last hospital is forced to stop admitting patients as Israeli troops surround the facility.

Kurdish rebels burn guns in step towards ending Turkey conflict

Keir Starmer announces a "one in, one out" pilot scheme to deter illegal migration. Also: The original Jane Birkin handbag sells for millions, and why chimps have been wearing blades of grass.

UK to return some migrants to France in weeks says PM

Ukraine's security service say one of their officers was gunned down in Kyiv after an overnight Russian bombardment. Also: Houthis destroy a ship in the Red Sea, and preventing cancer patients from losing their hair.

Ukrainian security service say their officer shot dead

Kenya’s President denounces anti-government unrest, saying protesters who use violence should be shot in the legs. Also, Nvidia becomes world's first company valued at 4 trillion dollars, and a new Barbie with diabetes.

Kenya's president denounces anti-government unrest

After President Trump's criticism of Putin, Russia launches major attack on Ukraine, in heaviest single bombardment of the war. Also: Taiwan begins biggest war games, and what do emojis say about us?

Russia launches major attack on Ukraine after Trump criticism of Putin

President Trump and the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, have met for a 2nd time to discuss efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza. Also: King Charles and president Macron toast “ever closer” UK-France ties.

Trump and Netanyahu meet again in push for Gaza ceasefire

A new malaria treatment designed for babies is expected to be rolled out in Africa within weeks. Also: Fresh warnings of the dangers linked to aid distribution sites in Gaza, and a look at the rise of e-sports.

First malaria treatment for babies approved

The Israeli PM, Benjamin Netanyahu, meets US President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss ways to end the Gaza conflict. Also: Russian minister sacked by Putin found dead, and gangs burn down Haiti's Oloffson hotel.

Netanyahu meets Trump at White House amid Gaza ceasefire talks

Australian Erin Patterson guilty of murdering three relatives with a beef wellington laced with death cap mushrooms. Also: 20 years since the London 7/7 bombings, and the latest on rescue efforts after Texas floods.

Australian woman guilty of murder in toxic mushroom trial

The authorities in Texas say dozens remain missing after recent flash floods, with search efforts continuing. Also: Qatar hosts Gaza ceasefire talks, and France's top TV game champion eliminated after 647 episodes.

More bodies recovered in Texas after Friday's catastrophic flash floods

The billionaire, Elon Musk, is launching a new political party after falling out with President Trump. Also: Israel is sending a delegation to Qatar for Gaza ceasefire talks, and swimming in the river Seine in Paris.

Elon Musk says he is launching a new political party

A surgeon who left his wedding to save a life says it's inspired him to help more people. Also: one man's adventures with a pet goose; a police officer reunited with a baby he rescued; and why we should eat more custard.

The Happy Pod: The surgeon who left his wedding to save a life

Hamas says it has delivered a "positive response" to mediators on Gaza ceasefire proposal - but wants guarantee that Israel's bombardment will not resume. Also: President Trump signs flagship tax package into law.

Hamas submits positive response to Gaza ceasefire proposal

A contractor who worked at aid distribution sites in Gaza says he saw colleagues firing on Palestinians waiting for food. The GHF categorically denies the allegations. Also: objects in space, and big Roman footwear.

Gaza aid contractor says he saw colleagues fire on hungry Palestinians

Liverpool and Portugal footballer, Diogo Jota, killed in car crash in Spain, aged 28. He had three young children and had just married his long-term partner. Also, Thailand gets a second caretaker prime minister in a week.

Footballer Diogo Jota dies in car crash

A New York jury clears Sean "Diddy" Combs of sex trafficking and racketeering but finds him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution. Also, dining on foie gras in space and marking moths' decline in sound.

'Diddy' cleared of sex trafficking and racketeering but guilty on other charges

US Senate approves Trump's mega-bill on tax and spending, after Vice-President JD Vance casts tie-breaking vote. Also: Delhi bans fuel sales to old cars to tackle air pollution, and TV evangelist Jimmy Swaggart dies.

US Senate narrowly passes Trump's 'big, beautiful bill'

Thailand's PM is suspended after a leaked call sparks outrage. Turkish police arrest more than a hundred city officials in Izmir, an opposition stronghold. Also: can robots play better football than us?

Thailand PM suspended over leaked phone call

Many Palestinians have been killed in an Israeli air strike at a popular seafront cafe in Gaza. Also: Microsoft AI system diagnoses patients "much better than doctors", and big wins not so big in Norwegian lottery.

Israeli strike on Gaza seafront cafe

Israel has ordered Palestinians to evacuate from parts of northern Gaza ahead of increased military action. Also: Spain records temperature of 46C in Europe heatwave, and would you eat bugs if they taste like bacon?

Israel orders evacuations in northern Gaza

A state funeral has been held in Iran for military commanders and nuclear scientists, killed during the 12-day conflict with Israel. Also: Budapest Pride march draws huge crowds in defiance of Orban legal threats.

Iran holds state funeral for military leaders killed in Israel conflict

We meet Jack Pepper, the composer who's written a song for King Charles. The piece celebrates the harmony between people and the natural world. Also: hope for Alzheimer's patients; and how tourism could help stray dogs.

The Happy Pod: A song fit for a King

The top court in the US has ruled judges in lower courts have limited ability to block presidential orders. Also: DR Congo and Rwanda sign long-awaited peace deal, and should we be letting maggots eat our food waste?

US Supreme Court curbs judges' power to block Trump orders

The US pumps millions into Gaza Humanitarian Foundation - but MSF calls the scheme "slaughter masquerading as aid." Also: US set to get rare earth metals after deal with Beijing, and a breakthrough against a rare disease.

Gaza: US pledges $30 million to controversial aid system

The US defence secretary insists their strikes undermined Iran's nuclear plans. Also: Journalist Anna Wintour is to step down as US Vogue editor, and a man whose crimes helped create the term Stockholm Syndrome has died.

US insists attack on Iran was a success as Iran's leader dismisses it as 'showmanship'

A special episode answering your questions about the Iran crisis. BBC experts discuss Iran's nuclear ambitions, possibilities of regime change and the impact on the wider Middle East.

Iran crisis: your questions answered

Iran's leader claims US strikes on nuclear facilities achieved "nothing significant". The US defence secretary says otherwise. Also: Iranians share what they want from their leaders, and North Korea’s new beach resort.

Iran's leader says the US gained 'nothing' from its attacks on nuclear sites

President Trump dismisses leaked intelligence report that cast doubt on success of Iran strikes. Also: millions of children at risk as vaccine uptake stalls and could weight loss drugs be changing our shopping habits?

Trump says US strikes set Iran's nuclear programme back 'decades'

The Israeli PM has claimed an historic victory over Iran as a ceasefire seems to be holding. Also: Protesters force Amazon's Jeff Bezos to move his wedding celebration in Venice, and how nightmares damage your health.

Netanyahu claims historic victory over Iran

Donald Trump says he is not happy after the ceasefire between Israel and Iran was violated. Also: NATO leaders are meeting and could a 33-year-old Muslim become the Democratic candidate for New York mayor?

President Trump lashes out at Iran and Israel after ceasefire violations

Iran has launched missiles at a key US airbase in Qatar in response to American attacks on its main nuclear sites. Meanwhile, Israel has attacked government targets in Iran, and Trump announces Iran-Israel ceasefire.

Iran fires missiles at US Qatar base

Israel says it has hit access routes to Iran's main nuclear enrichment site a day after US attacks. The UN's nuclear watchdog says it must be allowed to assess the damage to Iran's nuclear programme.

Israel strikes Iran's Fordo nuclear site in fresh wave of attacks

At an emergency session of the UN Security Council, Antonio Guterres warned that fighting needed to stop and negotiations should resume. Also: 20 people are dead after a suicide bombing in the Syrian capital, Damascus.

US strikes Iran: UN chief warns against cycle of retaliation

Iran's foreign minister says the US crossed a big red line by bombing Iranian nuclear facilities. We ask what options Tehran has now. Also: Markets are reacting calmly so far, but worries remain.

Iran condemns US attacks on its nuclear facilities

President Trump says US strikes have obliterated three Iranian nuclear facilities. The Israeli Prime Minister has called his decision bold; Iran says the attack is outrageous and will have everlasting consequences.

US targets Iran's nuclear sites - extra edition

Israel has been striking targets across Iran amid reports that the US is moving B-2 bombers to a base in the Pacific. Also: The science of revenge, and the healing power of video games.

Israel strikes Iran as US 'moves B-2 bombers'

The woman fulfilling her mother's dreams of travel by launching her ashes out to sea in a bottle. It's brought her happiness amid her grief. Also: Thailand's tigers bounce back; and making hospitals happier for children.Presenter: Nick Miles. Music composed by Iona Hampson

The Happy Pod: Sending my mother's ashes around the world

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry says more than 400 Palestinians have been killed near aid sites since late May. The Israeli military has repeatedly said it will investigate such reports. We ask why this keeps happening.

Gaza aid deaths: Why does this keep happening?

As the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its second week, European ministers are meeting Iran's top diplomat as part of efforts to end the fighting. Also; Spain's political crisis and the tigers making a comeback.

European ministers hold talks with Iran as conflict continues

The White House says Trump will decide whether to attack Iran within two weeks because there is a "substantial chance of negotiations". Also: why killing a Lithuanian bear outraged hunters, and the search to name storms.

Trump to decide if US will attack Iran 'within two weeks'

An Iranian missile hits a hospital in the Israeli town of Beersheba. Israel vows revenge. Also: Australia's poison mushroom trial draws to a close, and the archaeologists solving a 2000 year old jigsaw puzzle.

Israeli hospital hit by Iranian missile

US president meets national security team again to discuss next steps on Iran. Also: once called the Russian Davos, the St Petersburg International Economic Forum fails to attract western business leaders.

Trump keeps world guessing on Iran strikes

Iran’s supreme leader says he will never surrender to Israel and warned the US not to intervene in the war. Also: More people killed in Gaza near an aid centre, and the tennis legend Martina Navratilova on her career.

Iran warns Trump against joining war with Israel

Donald Trump has demanded Iran's "unconditional surrender" and is said to be deciding if the US will join Israeli strikes on Iran. Also: offloading e-waste in Thailand, and how a 3D printed face changed a man's life.

Trump demands Iran's 'unconditional surrender'

Gaza's health ministry says at least 51 Palestinians have been killed while waiting at a food distribution site in Gaza. Also: President Trump says he wants "a real end" to the fighting between Israel and Iran.

Dozens of Palestinians killed in Israeli fire at aid site in Gaza

Israel has hit Iranian state TV as Tehran has reportedly reached out to end the war. Also: The suspect in the killing of a Minnesotan lawmaker is charged with murder, and the owners splashing out on their pet's birthday.

Israel attacks Iranian state TV

Israel says it has full control of the skies over Tehran and destroyed a third of Iran's missile launchers. Also: we hear from inside Iran, and for the first time, a woman takes charge of Britain's MI6 spy agency.

Iran and Israel exchange heavy strikes for fourth day

Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel are "over the skies of Tehran" and have killed an Iran intelligence chief. In response, Iran carries out its first daytime strikes into Israel.

Israeli strikes kill an Iran intelligence chief as conflict intensifies

A tiny dog famous for her big adventure reunites with her overjoyed owners, after 529 days in the wild. Also: the escaped Tennessee Zebra; why a man risked his life to save 41 others; and a footballing first for Senegal.

The Happy Pod: The tiny dog back home after a big adventure

The search in the US for the man who shot dead a Democratic politician in a targeted killing. Also: Israel and Iran threaten to step up their attacks, and getting away from the electro-magnetic radiation of modern life.

Minnesota Democratic politician killed in targeted shooting

The Israeli air force says it is continuing to attack targets inside Iran. Overnight, Iran launched retaliatory air strikes across Israel. We test the mood in both countries and ask where the conflict might go next.

Israel and Iran continue strikes

Loud blasts have been heard across Israel following another wave of retaliatory airstrikes by Iran, including in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Also: black box flight recorder found at Air India crash site.

Iran retaliates with missile attacks on Israel

Israel's military says Iran fired about 100 drones towards its territory, many of which were intercepted, in retaliation to Israeli air strikes overnight. Also: an update from the scene of crashed Air India flight AI17.