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This weekend’s streaming lineup has something for every mood: Michael Fassbender returns as a CIA operative in the gritty spy thriller “The Agency” Season 2, while romance fans get “Your Fault - London” and a new Harlan Coben mystery “I Will Find You” on Netflix. Horror seekers can dive into the chilling sequel “The Black Phone 2,” and comedy lovers can relive the outrageous legacy of Rik Mayall in a special Sky tribute. Whether you crave action, drama, scares, or laughs, the platforms have you covered.

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A new book exposes how Britain and the U.S. have backed Israel for decades, enabling oppression of Palestinians and violating international law. Tracing roots to the 1917 Balfour Declaration, it reveals how historical decisions displaced native populations and set the stage for today’s conflict. Despite being Israeli citizens, Palestinians face systemic discrimination, while those in occupied territories endure dire conditions. The book critiques Western inaction since October 2023, arguing peace plans favor economic interests over Palestinian rights. It concludes that global complicity and Israel’s impunity remain the greatest barriers to justice and peace.

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Liverpool’s big move: 22-year-old Spanish forward Victor Munoz, currently with the national team at the World Cup, has signed a six-year deal after passing his medical. A sought-after target of Newcastle, Munoz becomes Iraola’s first signing since taking charge — following a deal for Jeremy Jacquet. Already scoring for Spain and impressing at Osasuna with 7 goals and 5 assists last season, Munoz is poised to join Liverpool once international duties wrap up and paperwork clears. His journey from Barcelona’s academy to Real Madrid’s ranks makes his Liverpool debut all the more intriguing.

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An 83-year-old former teacher, Patrick Sharkey, has been jailed for six and a half years after confessing to sexually assaulting 19 victims between 1970 and 1995 — many as young as seven — during family trips he orchestrated. The court described his crimes as premeditated, predatory, and deeply traumatic, exploiting children’s excitement for holidays to groom and abuse them. Despite a prior two-year sentence in Northern Ireland and a guilty plea, the judge handed down a harsher seven-year term, acknowledging Sharkey’s age and lack of reoffense but condemning the scale and lasting harm inflicted. Survivors expressed relief at justice finally being served — though non...

A terrifying incident unfolded at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo when a three-year-old boy was found injured inside a crocodile enclosure—prompting a frantic police response and the arrest of a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder. The child, now in critical but stable condition, is being supported by specially trained officers, while the zoo has closed its Tropical House in mourning. Authorities stress the boy and suspect had no prior connection, urging the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues. The family-run zoo, known for its unique blend of farm shop, steakhouse, and crocodile encounters, remains op...

England’s cricket team is in deep trouble after a disastrous second day against New Zealand, trailing by 169 runs with the innings in shambles. Bowling chaos and batting collapses left them at 222 for six, with debutant Jordan Cox now tasked with holding fort alongside the tailenders. Glenn Phillips’ century and New Zealand’s clinical bowling, led by Matt Henry, exposed England’s fragility. Despite bright moments like Emilio Gay’s 53 and Joe Root’s near-14k milestone, the lineup couldn’t stabilize. The pressure is now on Cox and James Rew to pull off a miracle — their character and grit will be tes...

Fog delayed play, wind barely kicked in, and Shinnecock Hills delivered a brutal Day One test—only six players broke par as Rory McIlroy, Ludvig Aberg, and Patrick Reed battled through tough conditions. McIlroy briefly led but finished even par, while veteran Pádraig Harrington admitted the two-hour suspension was rough. The wind eventually arrived, forcing organizers to water greens to keep them playable—a nod to Shinnecock’s storied history of punishing setups. With a $22.5 million prize pool and McIlroy chasing another US Open title, the pressure is on as slow play and fierce competition set the stage for a d...

Dublin’s beloved Silk Road Café, open for nearly 25 years, faces imminent closure—not just due to the EU presidency, but because the entire Dublin Castle grounds are off-limits to the public. Despite winning a court injunction against its landlord, the Chester Beatty Library, the café can’t operate without visitors. The Taoiseach and Tánaiste have stepped in, pledging government support, while the café’s fate hangs in the balance as court proceedings loom.

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Fintan Drury’s explosive new book “Genocide: the Destruction of Palestine” lays bare how the U.S. and UK have bankrolled Israel’s war, turning Gaza into a concentration camp and enabling a systematic erasure of Palestinian life. Drury exposes how Trump’s “We don’t have a Gaza” mindset prioritized commerce over humanity, while recent Israeli polls reveal growing support for expelling Palestinians — a chilling sign of expansionist intent. The book dismantles the peace narrative, revealing a decades-long pattern of land grabs, killings, and silence on reparations — all in service of geopolitical and economic power.

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Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa in Ireland just claimed the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler Triple Crown, earning top honors across three elite lists for its unmatched luxury, stunning mountain views, world-class spa, and award-winning dining—all set against the backdrop of a historic estate that draws millions of visitors annually.

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A damning report exposes 22 years of systemic abuse at Muckamore Abbey Hospital, where vulnerable patients endured escalating assaults, chronic understaffing, and dangerous misuse of restraints and sedation. With 106 urgent recommendations, families demand real accountability—not just apologies—from leaders who failed to act. The Belfast Trust’s CEO offers a full apology and pledges to rebuild trust, while the PSNI has referred 124 individuals for prosecution in the UK’s largest adult safeguarding case. Political leaders now call for swift, comprehensive reform to ensure the most vulnerable are never left unprotected again.

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Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney is calling for accountability after violent unrest in Glasgow left injuries and sparked fears of racial targeting, echoing the fallout from a knife attack in Belfast. Swinney met with anti-racism and refugee advocates to reaffirm that violence has no place in Scottish society, pledging to combat hatred and rebuild trust through cross-community initiatives. He emphasized unity, dignity, and safety for all, regardless of background, and announced investments in social cohesion to counter division and misinformation. Refugee groups urged strong leadership to support both newcomers and host communities, ensuring Scotland remains a place where ev...

A damning report on Muckamore Abbey Hospital in County Antrim reveals shocking failures in care for vulnerable adults, including rampant misuse of restraints and overmedication. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has pledged immediate, laser-focused action, vowing to implement 106 recommendations faster than the six-month deadline, and issued an unconditional apology to victims and families. He credited families for their courage and condemned the silence of those who witnessed abuse. With the Adult Protection Bill now moving forward, the government aims to dismantle systemic failures and prevent future harm — a crucial step toward restoring trust and safeguarding the most vulnerable.

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Aidan OBrien etched his name in racing history at Royal Ascot with his 100th career victory, as Scandinavia—fresh off a season-long layoff—stunned the field to win the Gold Cup in a heart-stopping finish, narrowly edging out last year’s champion Trawlerman. With jockey Ryan Moore guiding the charge and bookmakers scrambling after a massive bet on the favorite, the win underscores O’Brien’s enduring dominance, his tenth Gold Cup triumph and a milestone that cements his legendary status in the sport.

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Wine’s in a slump, but rosé’s on fire—while global spirits outpace wine and French drinkers swap wine for beer, rosé’s soaring popularity proves it’s the ultimate summer escape, thriving even as the economy wobbles.

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Four million pounds is being pumped into Northern Ireland’s police force after racially charged unrest last week, with funding announced by Secretary of State Hilary Benn to support unexpected costs and help maintain peace—especially for vulnerable communities. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher stressed the money is critical amid ongoing budget pressures. Police are also actively seeking public help to identify suspects and gather evidence from the June 9th disorder in Belfast’s York Street area, urging anyone with photos or video to come forward.

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The US Open at Shinnecock Hills kicked off with brutal conditions—fog delayed play for two hours, then fierce winds turned the course into a mental and physical gauntlet. Only six players broke par on day one, including Ryder Cup champ Ludvig Aberg and Masters winner Patrick Reed. Rory McIlroy briefly led but couldn’t hold off the punishing layout. Slow play and relentless wind made every shot a calculated gamble, while afternoon starters like DeChambeau and Rahm face even tougher conditions. This isn’t just golf—it’s endurance tested against nature, and the battle’s just getting started.

England’s World Cup win over Croatia sent fans into狂喜, but off the pitch, Arlington police made six arrests—including for selling fake merch worth up to $30K—none of them British. Stadium security dealt with fights, while nearby bars saw record beer sales. Authorities deployed drones and Segway cops after Wembley’s chaotic Euro 2020 finale, though FIFA insists no ticketless fans slipped in. Amid the electric celebration, the event highlighted the wild, unpredictable energy of global football fandom.

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A survivor of abuse tied to Mohamed Al Fayed recounts a frustrating virtual meeting with the Prime Minister, where she was muted and her urgent questions were filtered, leaving her feeling unheard. Though the Prime Minister met with multiple survivors—a symbolic step—no concrete plans for justice emerged. With over 150 allegations still under police investigation and a separate probe into officers’ conduct underway, survivors are demanding a joint National Crime Agency-led inquiry to ensure accountability. The Prime Minister’s office vows support, but survivors say real action must follow, not just words.

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Prince William toured the Apricot Centre in Devon—a 120-acre eco-farm blending agroforestry, permaculture, and nature-based therapy—where biodiversity has soared 400% and profits exceed a million pounds annually, proving sustainability can be both planet-friendly and profitable. He met pigs named after the Spice Girls, tasted fresh strawberries, and grilled farmers on climate impacts on crops, aligning with the Duchy of Cornwall’s 2032 net-zero goal.

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Public sector unions and government officials are locked in a bitter standoff over how to begin negotiating a new pay deal, with just 12 days left until the current agreement expires. Union lead Kevin Callinan warns of potential industrial action unless talks start with pay and living standards front and center—something the government insists on delaying until later stages. With the Minister admitting budget limits, tensions are rising fast, and workers are bracing for possible unrest if no compromise emerges.

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Belfast Telegraph’s podcast “The Bel Tel” just snagged top honors at the Society of Editors’ News Podcast Awards, earning high commendation for best regional and community podcast. Their in-depth reporting on sensitive local issues like the Noah Donohoe inquest and declassified government files proved their mettle against stiff national competition. This isn’t their first rodeo—last October they won bronze in News and Current Affairs, and they’ve also claimed two consecutive New York Festivals Audio Awards, up against giants like Al Jazeera and the BBC. Their commitment to quality journalism is finally getting the national spotlight it deserves. <...

James McClean’s explosive memoir, The Walls, drops October 22nd, co-written with Daniel McDonnell, and promises raw, unfiltered insight into the Irish footballer’s rollercoaster journey—from Derry streets to international fame. Known for his fiery personality, McClean tackles everything: his controversial poppy stance, the pressure of elite football, personal struggles, and the sacrifices that shaped him. With over 100 caps for Ireland, this isn’t just a sports story—it’s a candid look at a man who’s always stood by his convictions, now revealing the truth behind the headlines. Expect honesty, heart, and a story that’ll leave you questi...

An 83-year-old former teacher, Patrick Sharkey, has been sentenced to seven years in prison — with the final six months suspended — for sexually abusing 19 boys over a 25-year span in County Donegal. A predator who groomed his young victims, many of them students as young as seven, Sharkey pleaded guilty to 132 charges and exploited their families’ modest means, luring them with promises of holidays. The judge called it a “gross breach of trust,” noting the calculated nature of his crimes and the sheer scale of the abuse. Despite an initial 14-year sentence, Sharkey’s age, poor health, and cooperation with authorities...

Hospital consultants are being caught receiving extra payments—called “nixers”—for work already covered by public contracts, including delivering babies while covering for private colleagues at hospitals like Rotunda and Cork University Maternity. The government, led by Tánaiste Simon Harris, has firmly condemned the practice as illegal and outside approved HSE arrangements, with immediate steps underway to halt it. HSE leadership is already contacting clinical directors to enforce compliance. Crucially, the Minister for Finance reminded everyone that all income, including these unofficial payments, is taxable—Revenue is watching. This exposes a troubling gap between private behavior and public contract ob...

Iran’s Strait of Hormuz is reopening after a major US military shift—dozens of ships now navigate past the blockade, with over 12 million barrels of oil flowing through Wednesday night. Vice President Vance confirms the easing of restrictions as part of a broader deal to end hostilities, aiming to normalize trade and curb Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. While Iranian media claims shipping has returned to normal, the central Strait remains closed due to mines, forcing vessels through northern or southern routes. Major shipowners like Grimaldi Group and Cosco are already transiting, signaling a thaw after over 100 days of dis...

Two twenty-three-year-olds face serious charges after allegedly attempting a break-in at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during Beyoncé’s concert — targeting a VIP rooftop and damaging a keypad worth $1,700. One admits to the damage, both deny intent to steal, and their trial isn’t until February 2030. The bizarre case unfolds against the backdrop of a massive music event, with legal proceedings moving at a glacial pace.

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In a harrowing scene in Dublin’s city center last November, a firefighter raced to save a young girl in pink shoes receiving CPR and a crèche worker bleeding badly with a lung protruding from her body—while the accused, Riad Bouchaker, lay restrained nearby. Paramedics worked frantically to stabilize the child with bone marrow meds and chest compressions, while the woman was rushed to hospital. Now on trial at the Central Criminal Court, Bouchaker faces charges of attempted murder of three children and serious assault on the worker—he’s pleaded not guilty, and the trial, expected to last w...

Jury resumes deliberations in Jeffrey Donaldson’s sexual offenses trial as Dublin fire forces six hospitalizations, a public inquiry exposes horrific failures at Muckamore Abbey Hospital, and Ireland’s Taoiseach heads to Brussels for final EU presidency talks under Cyprus’s leadership.

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The FAI’s decision to play Ireland vs. Israel at a neutral overseas venue has ignited fierce backlash, with Palestinian FA clarifying they never endorsed the move—calling the FAI’s earlier claims misleading. Sinn Fein slammed the FAI as cowardly and deceptive, while boycott calls remain strong, leaving the controversy far from settled.

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Jury deliberations continue in the high-profile trial of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, former DUP leader, accused of 18 offenses spanning decades including rape and indecent assault. After over three hours of discussion, jurors were sent home and will resume Friday. Donaldson, 63, denies all charges, while his wife, Eleanor, 60, faces separate aiding-and-abetting charges under mental health provisions. The judge stressed the “beyond reasonable doubt” standard and the need for a unanimous verdict. The outcome remains uncertain as the jury weighs deeply contested testimony.

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A viral social media story claims canvassers dumped brown liquid through a grandmother’s letterbox—complete with dramatic photos of a red door. But close inspection reveals telltale signs of manipulation: mismatched hinges, misaligned locks, and eerily similar liquid patterns that mirror older, blue-door photos from February. AI detection tools didn’t flag the images, but that doesn’t rule out editing or AI generation. It’s a chilling reminder: in the digital age, even the most convincing images can be illusions designed to stir outrage—and we must question what we see before we react.

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The jury in Jeffrey Donaldson’s high-stakes trial has wrapped up for the day, set to reconvene Friday at 10:30 AM as they weigh 18 charges spanning decades and two alleged victims. With the judge hammering home the need to stick to facts—not politics, religion, or rumors—the pressure mounts on jurors to convict only if guilt is beyond a reasonable doubt. Donaldson, once DUP leader, now faces not guilty pleas while his wife battles separate aiding-and-abetting charges. The judge stressed that past convictions don’t matter here, and that delays in reporting don’t invalidate claims. If unsure? Acquit. Deliberati...

Four million pounds in emergency cash is being pumped into Northern Ireland’s police force to tackle recent violent unrest sparked by a horrific knife attack that left a man critically injured. With masked rioters fueling racist chaos and authorities scrambling to restore order, Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn personally visited Belfast to show solidarity and announce the funding—aimed at deploying extra officers and ensuring justice for those responsible. This major financial boost underscores the government’s commitment to public safety and accountability in the face of escalating tensions.

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A damning public inquiry into Muckamore Abbey Hospital exposes systematic patient abuse, sparking urgent calls for reform. With 116 recommendations, inquiry chair Tom Kark demands immediate action — but families, like Glynn Brown whose son was assaulted in 2017, warn without external pressure, the Belfast Trust may resist change. Despite CEO Jennifer Welsh’s apology, victims demand tangible justice, not just words — pushing the Health Minister to outline a dedicated redress scheme and prioritize patient safety for those still awaiting resettlement.

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A fierce early morning fire erupted in west Finglas, Dublin, forcing six people—including children—to emergency hospital treatment. Firefighters responded just before 2 AM, swiftly containing the blaze by 2:30 AM with no spread to neighboring homes. Though the cause remains unknown, the swift evacuation and quick response averted greater disaster. Everyone’s recovery is the hope.

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Sean Carlin, a 46-year-old man from west Belfast, is getting a fresh start after a court decision overturned the Police Ombudsman’s previous dismissal of his complaint. Carlin challenged how forensic evidence was handled during a stop-and-search that led to cocaine being found in his car — claiming it was exaggerated to damage his reputation and possibly influenced by his political views. Lawyers agreed the original report must be scrapped, paving the way for a new, thorough investigation into all his grievances. Carlin’s legal team says he’s vindicated and ready to fully cooperate with the new probe.

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Northern Ireland’s Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council is facing a crisis with staff taking nearly 30 days off sick annually—six weeks per person—more than double the regional average. Councillors warn this strains services and calls for HR to urgently analyze short-term vs. long-term absences and their taxpayer costs. While officials cite aging staff as a factor and stress continuity measures, critics demand clearer data to address sudden absences and ensure efficient resource use.

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Mickey Bridge, the 25-year-old survivor of Bloody Sunday who was shot in the thigh by British soldiers in 1972, passed away at 79, leaving behind a legacy of unbreakable spirit. His daughter Roseann called him “a man that couldn’t be broken,” as hundreds gathered at Holy Family Church for his funeral, where Fr Joe Gormley praised his humor, family devotion, and resilience. Married to Jane McKeegan, father of four, and devoted grandfather, Bridge’s life was defined by love and laughter — even as he carried the scars of history. His final journey was accompanied by “Only Our Rivers Run Free,” a song echoing...

England’s shaky second Test against New Zealand began with a brutal batting collapse and sloppy fielding, as the Kiwis smashed 391 thanks to Glenn Phillips’ century. A shocking run-out of opener Ben Duckett—after a risky single called by captain Emilio Gay—added to the pressure. But Gay refused to fold, scoring 48 not out to steady the ship and keep England at 118/2 by tea. Despite a chaotic morning and a relentless New Zealand chase that saw them add 100 runs after seven wickets down, Gay battled through 92 balls alongside Joe Root, refusing to let England’s hopes die.

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