POLITICS & POLICY

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's unexpected announcement of an extended UK stay has reportedly blindsided Prince William and Catherine, highlighting ongoing tensions and financial speculations within the royal family.

Catherine Mayer criticises the media's portrayal of Meghan Markle, drawing parallels to historical narratives about women in power. She argues this pattern affects perceptions of royal women broadly.

Australia and Japan are enhancing their defence and diplomatic ties to counter China's growing influence in the Pacific, focusing on military investments and strategic partnerships.

President Trump threatens military action against Oman as US-Iran peace talks expire without resolution, escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and complicating regional diplomacy.

Google removed 449 Korean-language YouTube channels for coordinated political manipulation before South Korea's June elections, highlighting concerns over online influence on political discourse.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear demands updates on Senator Mitch McConnell's health, highlighting concerns over his prolonged absence and capacity to serve, amid a broader debate on aging lawmakers.

Ukraine launched a major drone assault on Russia, targeting logistics hubs, as Russia continued its bombardment of Ukrainian cities. The conflict shows no signs of de-escalating.

A royal biographer suggests Meghan Markle's recent private meeting with King Charles III may be strategically motivated, aiming for financial and public influence rather than mere reconciliation.

The Trump administration has requested the Supreme Court to allow the construction of a new White House ballroom, challenging a court ruling that halted above-ground work pending congressional approval.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger met to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, focusing on security, economic cooperation, and regional conflicts amid global challenges.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch affects southern Wisconsin during the 2026 fall primary election, with potential for damaging winds and heavy rain. Voters are advised to plan around storm windows.

Meghan Markle's recent dinner with Martha Stewart has reignited debate over the Sussexes' interactions with the British monarchy, following a private family gathering with King Charles III.

The ASX 200 fell 0.43% on Monday, driven by a bank selloff despite gains in mining and healthcare. Westpac's earnings update disappointed, while Element Fleet Management bid for FleetPartners.

Pastor Son Hyun-bo of South Korea concludes a U.S. tour with a White House meeting, spotlighting his legal battle and ongoing debates over religious freedom in South Korea.

Meghan Markle's 45th birthday passed without public acknowledgment from the royal family, continuing a pattern since 2020. Experts suggest this is due to protocol, not personal animosity.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani's universal child care plan for New York City faces a $5 billion funding gap, requiring new taxes or spending cuts to meet ambitious goals.

President Trump criticises ExxonMobil and Chevron for high profits amid the Iran conflict, urging them to lower consumer prices. Oil prices have surged, impacting American drivers significantly.

A massive migrant surge into Ceuta, Spain's North African enclave, has resulted in at least 88 deaths, sparking EU-wide debates on migration policy and border security.

The U.S. Senate has stalled the Sunshine Protection Act, maintaining the biannual clock change. Concerns about regional daylight patterns and health impacts contribute to the legislative impasse.

An aircraft engineer received $40,000 compensation after being unfairly dismissed for a flight delay incident. The Fair Work Commission found procedural fairness was overlooked in the aviation industry case.

King Charles III invites Prince Harry to stay at Buckingham Palace during his UK visit, a move seen as a reconciliation effort but potentially straining relations with Prince William.

Australian motorists face rising fuel costs as federal excise reductions end and Middle East tensions impact oil prices. A new refinery feasibility study aims to address long-term fuel security.

The gradual increase in the UK's State Pension age from 66 to 67 affects free bus pass eligibility, delaying access for pensioners born after April 6, 1960, until they reach the new age threshold.

Capital One defends its decision to close Trump Organization accounts, citing anti-money laundering concerns. The bank seeks dismissal of a lawsuit alleging political bias, highlighting compliance-driven motives.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani was not invited to speak at Army Sgt. Angel Rampersad's funeral, sparking speculation about political motives and scrutiny over his recent actions.

President Trump held a Cabinet meeting at Camp David to address the escalating conflict with Iran, which continues to impact global oil markets and regional stability.

President Trump announced a historic agreement for Hamas to disarm in Gaza, contingent on Israel meeting specific obligations, amid ongoing regional tensions and international cautious optimism.

President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu held a productive meeting at the White House, focusing on Iran's nuclear program and regional security, reaffirming their commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

President Trump and President Zelenskyy met at the White House to discuss Ukraine's Patriot missile production and efforts to revive peace talks with Russia, marking improved relations between the leaders.