Top News — Mon, May 18, 8:36 AM UTC

Two US Navy jets collide at Idaho air show; four crew eject safely

Two US Navy EA-18G Growler jets collided mid-air during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. All four crew members ejected safely and are reported to be in stable condition.

Thousands flock to Washington for Trump-backed ‘Rededicate 250’ prayer rally

Thousands gathered on the National Mall in Washington for the Trump-backed 'Rededicate 250' prayer rally, featuring the President and top Cabinet officials. Critics denounced the event for blurring the lines between church and state.'

Executions worldwide double in a year; Amnesty reports alarming spike

Global use of the death penalty, including beheadings and public hangings, doubled in a year to at least 2,707 executions in 2025, according to Amnesty International. The report blames a small group of states, including the US, Saudi Arabia, and China, for the 'alarming spike'.

Israel strikes kill seven in Lebanon; Hezbollah denounces US-brokered talks

Israeli strikes killed seven people in Lebanon, including an Islamic Jihad commander, despite an extended 'ceasefire'. Hezbollah denounced US-brokered talks, while Israel's IDF reservists are forced to cross the Lebanon border despite being ineligible for benefits.

Pianist Jayson Gillham sues Melbourne Symphony Orchestra over Gaza comments

Concert pianist Jayson Gillham is suing the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra for alleged unlawful discrimination after being dropped over his comments on Gaza. The case, which has crowdfunded over $175,000 for legal costs, will test workplace rights in Australia.

Cuba buys 300+ drones from Russia, Iran; weighs US attacks

Cuba has reportedly acquired over 300 military drones from Russia and Iran, with classified intelligence indicating discussions about using them to attack US targets, including the naval base at Guantanamo Bay and Key West.

Trump-Xi summit yields trade deals; China to buy billions in US ag products

Following President Trump's meeting with Xi Jinping, China agreed to buy 'at least' $17 billion worth of US agricultural goods annually, including beef and poultry. The summit also led to agreements on establishing trade and investment bodies.

Trump threatens Iran after UAE nuclear plant strike; oil jumps

President Trump issued a direct threat to Iran, stating the 'clock is ticking' for a deal, hours after drones targeted the UAE's Barakah nuclear plant. This comes as peace talks remain stalled and tensions escalate in the Middle East.

WHO Declares Global Health Emergency; Ebola Spreads in Congo, Uganda

The World Health Organization declared a global health emergency due to a rare Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with around 246 cases and 80 deaths reported. The CDC is working to extract a small number of Americans directly affected.

Netanyahu's secret UAE visit report sparks denial, threatens US-backed alliance

A report claiming former Prime Minister Netanyahu secretly visited the UAE during wartime prompted a swift denial from Abu Dhabi, fearing it would create the impression he was welcome while the current Prime Minister was not. This 'blunder' threatens the US-backed Israel-UAE alliance.

Long Island Rail Road Strike Halts Monday Commute; Governor Calls for Talks

The Long Island Rail Road strike, which began Friday, has shut down the largest US commuter rail system, causing concern for Monday's commute. New York Governor Kathy Hochul is being blamed for a 'lack of leadership' as she urges unions to resume talks.

Ryanair warns future fare hikes loom from jet fuel shortage

Ryanair is confident it will avoid jet fuel shortages and maintain a full summer schedule, but warns that travelers booking later in the year could face higher prices. The airline has plans for an 'armageddon' scenario if the crisis worsens.

Last updated: 5/18/2026, 8:36:16 AM