Latest News Stories
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King Charles clarifies Harry and Meghan’s non-working royal status post-UK return
King Charles issued a formal letter through Lord Chamberlain Richard Benyon to clarify that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle remain non-working royals after returning to the UK late last month, six years after stepping down from royal duties in January 2020. The letter, sent to government and military officials, reiterates that their titles (His/Her Royal Highness) are in abeyance, their charitable work is private, and security matters are handled by RAVEC. The couple’s children, Archie (7) and Lilibet (5), are described as private citizens. While most sources agree on the core details, discrepancies exist in timing—such as whether they returned two weeks ago or late last month—and specific events like Harry’s Sydney visit or internal communication times. The letter aims to prevent confusion about their status, though speculation persists about their security and future role.
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- Harry and Meghan stepped down from royal duties in January 2020
- The couple moved to the United States six years after quitting royal duties (2020)
- Harry and Meghan returned to the UK late last month (after six years abroad)
Today
Trial of three men accused of killing Australian brothers and American friend in Mexico
The trial of three men accused of killing Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend Carter Rhoad in Mexico in 2024 is underway in Ensenada. The parents of the victims, Debra and Martin Robinson, traveled from Perth to attend the trial, emphasizing their desire for truth and justice rather than revenge. The three defendants—Jesús Gerardo, Irineo Francisco, and Ángel Jesús—face charges of aggravated homicide, aggravated robbery, and other offenses, with prosecutors seeking 210-year sentences for each, including an additional 168-year sentence for Gerardo. The trial has faced challenges, including witness intimidation, a last-minute judge replacement, and an extended timeline from 20 days to four weeks. The ex-girlfriend of one of the accused was previously sentenced to 20 years in prison for her role in the crime. The victims were found in a well after being reported missing in April 2024, with their bodies showing signs of execution-style gunshot wounds. The case has drawn international attention, with the trial expected to conclude with a judge-only verdict.
US-Iran conflict escalates with strikes on oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz
The US and Iran have escalated their six-month-old conflict with a series of strikes targeting oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway carrying about one-fifth of the world's oil and gas shipments. Multiple sources confirm that the US struck three Iranian oil tankers on Saturday, including one off Kharg Island, another near Jask, and a third unladen tanker in the Gulf of Oman, in retaliation for Iranian attempts to attack US warships. Iran responded by targeting three oil tankers and three other ships, claiming they were traveling unauthorized routes. The conflict began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, and tensions have fluctuated with periods of relative calm, such as in August, before resuming in late August. The US has also imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports, disrupting global energy supplies. Iran, the third-largest producer in OPEC, has seen its oil exports significantly reduced, with 90% previously passing through Kharg Island. The US has threatened further economic and military actions, including targeting Iran’s oil fleet, while Iran has vowed retaliation. Recent strikes have also resulted in civilian casualties, including a US strike that killed five people and wounded dozens in southern Iran earlier in the week, and another that killed 156 people, most of them schoolchildren, on February 28. Oil prices have risen to $US100 a barrel due to the disruption in shipping.
Renoir Museum art heist on French Riviera steals four paintings, two abandoned
Two thieves broke into the Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer in the early hours, stealing four paintings valued at €9m and abandoning one or two as they fled. The alarm triggered at 5.48 am, with police arriving five minutes later at 5.53 am. The museum, opened in 1960 in Renoir’s last home before his death in 1919, was targeted in a heist mirroring a recent €88m Louvre robbery. Among the stolen works were *Portrait of Madame Pichon* (1895) and *Coco Lisant* (1905), with two other paintings left behind. ABC details the thieves’ use of an electric tool to cut through fences and escape in under three minutes, while the Guardian highlights broader trends in art theft. The incident has reignited calls for improved museum security, following a wave of high-profile robberies across Europe.
Andrew Hastie vs One Nation over 'traitor' claims and Ben Roberts-Smith war crimes case
Liberal MP Andrew Hastie is engaged in a public dispute with One Nation over a cartoon and video that describe him as a traitor for testifying in the 2022 defamation case against Ben Roberts-Smith. Hastie, a former SAS officer, denies the accusations and has vowed to fight to retain his West Australian seat of Canning at the next federal election in 2028. Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient, was charged with five counts of the war crime of murder over alleged killings between 2009 and 2012, which he denies. Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce have denied calling Hastie a traitor, though a satirical cartoon posted by Hanson on social media has been cited as the source of the claim. Hastie has distributed his military records, including a performance review from October 23, 2012, to rebut attacks on his service and integrity. One Nation won a by-election in the Western Australian seat of Secret Harbour this month, which overlaps Hastie’s federal electorate, signaling a potential challenge in the upcoming election. Hastie has also faced threats and abuse, prompting increased security for his family and office earlier this year.
Obituary of Blanche d'Alpuget, writer and wife of Bob Hawke
Blanche d'Alpuget, an acclaimed Australian writer and widow of former prime minister Bob Hawke, died at age 82 from complications of influenza. Known for her biographies, novels, and essays, she was best recognized for her award-winning biography of Hawke, which she wrote before marrying him in 1995. The couple first met in Jakarta in 1970, and their relationship began while Hawke was still married to his first wife, Hazel. D'Alpuget was a prolific author, publishing works on historical fiction, political biographies, and even detective novels, often incorporating themes of love and power. She was also known for her strong personality, wit, and refusal to be defined solely as Hawke’s wife, maintaining her own career and identity. Her death in 2026 follows Hawke’s in 2019, and she was survived by her son Louis Pratt and three stepchildren. Tributes highlighted her intellect, warmth, and contributions to literature, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling her a 'true one-off.'
Alan Jones' indecent assault trial and witness loyalty claims
Alan Jones, an 85-year-old veteran broadcaster, is facing trial for alleged indecent assaults dating back to 2008. Both ABC and Guardian report that a witness, described as a loyal friend, texted Jones in late 2023 offering to refute claims made by Sydney Morning Herald journalist Kate McClymont, whom he called derogatory names. The witness denies attending a 2008 lunch where the alleged assaults occurred, claiming his memory is unreliable due to the passage of 18 years. ABC reports 22 charges, while Guardian specifies 20 indecent assault charges plus 2 additional counts of sexual touching involving six men. The trial centers on conflicting accounts of Jones's behavior, with ABC detailing a witness who saw inappropriate actions and jokes, while Guardian's witness insists he never observed any misconduct. Text messages reveal the witness's strong loyalty to Jones, calling him 'the greatest broadcaster ever' and dismissing the allegations as a 'witch hunt' by 'lefties.'
Oasis reunion tour and documentary *Don’t Look Back in Anger* analysis
The four articles analyze *Oasis: Don’t Look Back in Anger*, a documentary capturing the band’s 2025 reunion tour after 15–16 years of estrangement. The film, directed by Will Lovelace and Dylan Southern, follows the 41-concert Oasis Live 25 tour, which drew over two million fans across five continents and grossed $405 million. Key moments include Liam Gallagher’s dramatic late arrival at the Cardiff show, the emotional reconciliation between the brothers, and the profound impact of their music on fans worldwide, from a South Korean free diver to survivors of the Manchester Arena bombing. The documentary blends concert footage with personal stories, including the death of Stone Roses bassist Mani and a police sergeant’s Oasis-themed briefing. While the film avoids behind-the-scenes drama, it highlights the band’s genuine affection for each other and their fans, with Noel and Liam now texting 'like fucking mates' and giving their first joint interview in decades. Critics praise its emotional depth and authenticity, though some note its avoidance of financial or political discussions, focusing instead on the healing power of music.
High Court hears challenge to White Australia neo-Nazi party ban
The High Court is hearing a challenge from the neo-Nazi group White Australia, which was banned in May under new hate speech laws introduced after the Bondi Beach terror attack. The group argues the ban breaches constitutional freedoms, including the implied freedom of political communication and separation of powers, while the government defends the laws as necessary to prevent harm and cites the 1951 Communist Party ban precedent. The case, set for September 8 and 9, involves complex legal arguments about the scope of federal power and the risks of authoritarian overreach. The group’s leader, Thomas Sewell, faces criminal charges and has attempted to form a political party to shield its activities, but the Commonwealth argues this is a pretext for promoting hate. Both sides rely on historical legal precedents, with the court weighing whether the laws strike a balance between protecting democracy and preventing extremist threats.
NYC releases 9/11 air quality records ahead of 25th anniversary
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani released over 170,000 pages of records detailing the city's knowledge of toxic air conditions following the September 11 attacks. The documents, withheld for 25 years across four different Mayoral administrations, reveal that officials knew about the dangers of breathing toxic air but reassured the public it was safe. The release comes ahead of the 25th anniversary of the attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people in New York City, Washington, and Pennsylvania, according to the Guardian, or 2,977 people, according to ABC. The records were made public as part of a settlement with 9/11 Health Watch, which had sued the city for access. The documents include internal memos and health reports, providing evidence that city leaders downplayed risks while predicting long-term health impacts for responders and nearby residents. ABC notes that over 9,400 have since died from exposure-related illnesses, and some officials, including former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, have criticized Mamdani for attending the anniversary memorial despite the controversy.
Frances Tiafoe's US Open quarterfinal comeback over Alex Michelsen
Frances Tiafoe staged a dramatic five-set comeback to defeat 22-year-old Alex Michelsen in the US Open quarterfinals, winning 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6(10/6) after four hours and 38 minutes. Tiafoe, the 11th seed, reached his third US Open semifinal, while Michelsen, who had never advanced past the second round at his home slam before, fell short despite a strong run. Both sources agree on the match score, duration, and Tiafoe’s semifinal advancement, though they differ on Tiafoe’s age, with the Guardian confirming he is 28. Michelsen’s previous best grand slam result was a fourth-round berth at the 2025 Australian Open, and he recorded 21 aces and 55 winners, though he committed 61 unforced errors. The Guardian noted Michelsen’s flawless run through four rounds and Tiafoe’s resilience, while ABC highlighted the emotional moment as Tiafoe consoled his friend and rival. Tiafoe will now face either Carlos Alcaraz or Ben Shelton in the semifinals.
Aryna Sabalenka reaches US Open 2026 semifinals after defeating Linda Noskova in quarterfinals
Aryna Sabalenka secured her place in the US Open 2026 semifinals with a hard-fought victory over Linda Noskova in the quarterfinals, overcoming a 2-4 deficit in the third set to win 7-6(7/1), 3-6, 7-6(10/7). The match showcased Noskova’s dominance with 18 aces and seven break-point saves, but Sabalenka’s resilience and mental toughness allowed her to turn the tide. This win marks Sabalenka’s sixth consecutive US Open semifinal appearance, matching Serena Williams’ historic run from 2011 to 2016, and keeps her in contention for a third straight title. Sabalenka will now face the winner of the all-American clash between third seed Jessica Pegula and 26th seed Emma Navarro. Noskova, the Wimbledon 2026 champion, reached her deepest US Open quarterfinal despite struggling with motivation post-Wimbledon, while Sabalenka’s victory also maintains her pressure on Elena Rybakina, who could become world No 1 if she defeats Zheng Qinwen. The match highlighted the intense competition at the top of women’s tennis, with both players delivering high-level first-strike tennis and setting the stage for a potential title showdown.
Aaron Donald's return from retirement and Rams' MCG season opener against 49ers
Aaron Donald, a 35-year-old three-time defensive player of the year and eight-time-first team All-Pro, is returning from retirement after leaving the game in 2024. Both ABC and 7NEWS confirm he rejoined the Rams in August but differ on the exact duration of his absence, with ABC stating two seasons and 7NEWS stating two and a half years. Donald will miss the Rams' NFL season opener against the San Francisco 49ers at the MCG on Friday morning, with both sources agreeing on this decision. The game marks the first international NFL match in Australia, with the Rams flying in just one day before the game while the 49ers have been in Australia for a week. Donald's return to game shape has been gradual, and while he expressed optimism about his progress, coach Sean McVay decided against rushing him back for the opener. The Rams have prepared extensively for the game, with McVay expressing confidence in the team's ability to perform without Donald, including players like Myles Garrett and Puka Nacua, who are expected to play despite recent injuries.
LIV Golf files for bankruptcy and seeks restructuring with new investors
LIV Golf filed for bankruptcy in 2026 after losing the backing of its Saudi investors, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which had invested over $US5 billion since the league’s launch in 2022. The bankruptcy filing comes as the league seeks to restructure its business, transition to a player-first ownership model, and secure new funding. Both ABC and the Guardian report that LIV Golf laid off most of its workforce in August 2026 and aims to return in a new form next season (2027), though specifics about the 2027 schedule remain unclear. ABC provides additional details on the financial scope of the bankruptcy, including a $US49.6 million loan, liabilities between $US500 million and $US1 billion, and assets between $US100 million and $US500 million, while the Guardian emphasizes the league’s efforts to align player interests with its future success. Contradictions exist regarding the timing of PIF’s funding cut and the exact financial ranges for liabilities and assets, but both sources agree on the core narrative of restructuring and a potential return in 2027.
Yesterday
One Nation leader Warren Pickering admits past drug use and scandals ahead of Victorian election
One Nation’s Victorian leader Warren Pickering held a press conference admitting to past drug use in his 20s, including ecstasy, speed, and marijuana, while denying being a drug addict or using ice. He confirmed losing his driver’s licence three times—at ages 18, 20, and again a decade later—and expressed regret for hurting loved ones, including his four kids. Pickering, now 43, joined the Australian Defence Force at 28 and later entered politics, standing for Pakenham in the November 2025 Victorian election. His former partner Joanne Scott’s allegations, published by *The Australian*, claim he used ice in front of children, which he denies. One Nation’s national support is at 30 per cent, but Victoria polls show weaker support at 19 per cent, trailing the coalition and Labor. The party’s rise hinges on relatable 'hard luck' narratives, with Pickering’s personal revelations framed as authentic by supporters. Contradictions exist over the extent of his drug use and the circumstances of his past relationships, with *The Age* providing more personal details than other outlets.
Peter O’Ryan wanted over axe attack on family in Gippsland, Victoria
All articles cover the manhunt and eventual arrest of Peter O’Ryan, 48, who is accused of attacking his family with an axe or hatchet at their home in Tyers, about 12.30pm on Saturday. The victims, a 76-year-old man, a 47-year-old man, and a 74-year-old woman, suffered critical injuries, with the two men remaining in critical condition and the woman in stable condition. O’Ryan fled the scene on foot and was arrested on Tuesday night after three days on the run. Police described the attack as extreme family violence and warned the public not to approach him, as he may still be armed. The attack occurred in Tyers, located about 160 kilometres or two hours east of Melbourne, and O’Ryan is known to frequent abandoned properties in the Morwell area. ABC provided additional details about O’Ryan’s criminal history, including recent prison releases and prior convictions, while THEAGE highlighted the severity of the victims’ injuries and community reactions.
UK imposes sanctions on Israeli settlements in West Bank, accusing ethnic cleansing
The UK government has imposed sweeping sanctions on Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, banning imports of goods and services linked to settlements, including financing, construction, and advertising. The move, led by Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, accuses Israeli settler terrorists of ethnic cleansing and frames the occupation as unlawful, marking a shift in British policy. The sanctions target the E1 settlement project, which threatens to bisect the West Bank and undermine the two-state solution, with tenders issued for 1,234 homes in a 3,401-unit development. The UK’s actions are supported by 12 countries, including France, Canada, and Spain, and are part of a broader trend among European nations. Israel’s government, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has condemned the sanctions, warning of retaliation, while the US has also expressed concerns. The UK’s measures include personal sanctions against individuals promoting settler violence, a ban on arms exports contributing to the occupation, and sanctions on Lebanese Hezbollah and Iran. The UK’s policy shift is framed as necessary to address settler violence, with over 1,400 attacks recorded in 2025, and to salvage the two-state solution amid escalating tensions.
House fire on Russell Island kills father and five children; coroner investigates causes
A coroner’s inquest is examining the deaths of a father aged 34 and five children aged four, three, 10, and 11 who died in a house fire on Russell Island in Queensland on 6 August 2023. The fire, which started in a two-storey wooden Queenslander renovated in 2013, trapped the family upstairs while the mother and another woman escaped. Emergency response was delayed due to the 45- to 60-minute barge ride for Queensland Fire and Rescue Services, with rural firefighters arriving at 6.35am. The landlord was fined $774 in 2024 for improperly installed smoke alarms, despite the mother reporting non-working alarms beforehand. Investigators have not determined the fire’s cause, and deliberate ignition cannot be ruled out. The inquest, set for 10 days in November, will explore whether domestic violence, inactive smoke alarms, or inadequate emergency resources contributed to the tragedy. Both sources agree the home had severe electrical hazards, including faulty wiring and extension cords, but differ slightly on the timing of the fire’s onset and descriptions of the family’s living conditions.
Kimi Antonelli wins Italian Grand Prix, ending 60-year Italian home win drought
Kimi Antonelli, a 20-year-old driver in his second F1 season, won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza from 19th on the grid, ending Italy’s 60-year drought for a home F1 victory. His performance included 26 overtakes, with key moments on lap 18 of 53 and a late charge from sixth place with 14 seconds back, extending his championship lead to 66 points. The win drew comparisons to Michael Schumacher, with tributes at Monza including special liveries and Schumacher’s 2002 championship car. Antonelli’s teammate George Russell, who started second, finished second, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen took third. The Guardian highlights Antonelli’s emotional connection to the win and his potential championship path, while ABC notes rivals avoiding confrontation with him, similar to Schumacher’s era. Upcoming races include the Spanish Grand Prix, with Red Bull’s Liam Lawson racing in place of injured Isack Hadjar.
Catastrophic Nepal floods leave Australians missing in remote border region
The catastrophic floods in Nepal on August 26 resulted in over 1,300 deaths and left about 5,000 people missing, including at least 38 Australians. Bhavinkumar Raval, a Brisbane man, was part of a group of 26 foreign travellers on a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar when the disaster struck. His wife, Aarti, and their two sons, aged 13 and eight, are desperately searching for answers. The last known contact with Raval’s group was at 7.30am in Timure, a location about a 25-minute walk from the Gyirong immigration checkpoint, which was hit by flooding roughly an hour later. Raval’s brother-in-law, Jony Rava, flew to Kathmandu six days after the disaster to assist in the search. Families of missing Australians, including those of Reshma Patel and Sumi Adhikari, have expressed frustration with the slow response and lack of information, particularly regarding the search efforts during the first days after the disaster. The Australian government is engaging with Chinese authorities to gather more details about the missing, though concerns remain about the scale and coordination of the rescue operations.