Media Lens: Israeli forces conduct operations in Gaza: how coverage differs Electricity losses lead to blackouts in Lebanon. A political…

UK MORNING BRIEFING

A Reform UK councillor has come under scrutiny for controversial social media posts, including a claim that the Holocaust was a hoax. The allegations follow his election in Bootle West this morning.

Two vials of hantavirus went missing from an Australian lab in 2024, now linked to a recent outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius. Investigations reveal they might have been destroyed during transfer. Follow our live blog for the latest updates on the ongoing situation.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged painful losses for the Labour Party in local elections, admitting over 20% voter abandonment. With challenges mounting, he plans a speech promising closer ties with the EU, though concerns linger over his leadership stability and potential shifts in UK political dynamics.

Three people have died from a hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius in the Atlantic Ocean. Former Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl, who contracted the virus in 2012, shared his harrowing experience. The ship is now en route to the Canary Islands for further assistance.

Bulgaria’s parliament approved Rumen Radev as prime minister, aiming to end political instability and boost economic development. The election, which saw a vote of 124-70, follows his party’s significant victory in April and comes amid challenges like inflation and energy crises affecting the EU member state.

Donald Trump has ordered the release of hundreds of classified UFO files, including witness testimonies and state documents. This initial tranche features 169 items, such as NASA transcripts and a drone pilot’s account from September 2023. More disclosures are forthcoming.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy granted approval for Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow on 9 May, citing humanitarian reasons after US-brokered negotiations. Concurrently, US President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire beginning Saturday, including a significant prisoner swap between both countries.

Gavi, backed by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, warns of an outbreak linked to the MV Hondius, with five confirmed cases of hantavirus. As health officials trace contacts, the number of cases may rise. Stay updated on the developing situation.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Italian leaders Giorgia Meloni and Antonio Tajani in Rome to discuss international security. Tajani expressed Italy’s commitment to a post-war mission to Hormuz. Blinken highlighted ongoing negotiations with Iran and the challenges of unreliable allies.