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World News

Fresh news brought to you daily from around the world. Hot news, breaking stories as they happen.

Michelle Obama Smear Mars Trump's White House UFC

The White House hosted its first professional sporting event on Sunday night as President Donald Trump celebrated his 80th birthday and the approaching 250th anniversary of American independence with a UFC card staged on the South Lawn.

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The event transformed a space traditionally used for state functions, diplomatic ceremonies and national celebrations into an outdoor arena beneath a massive steel structure known as the Claw. Military aircraft flyovers accompanied Trump's arrival alongside UFC president Dana White, while thousands of spectators gathered on the South Lawn and the nearby Ellipse.
White House hosts first professional UFC event
Organizers had delayed the start by an hour because of forecasts of thunderstorms, but the weather held throughout the night.
The evening featured a strong display of patriotic symbolism. A joint flyover involving the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds took place during the event, while a B-1 bomber later passed overhead. Chants of "U-S-A" echoed around the venue throughout the night.
Guests included technology executives, political allies, cabinet officials and foreign dignitaries, reflecting the unusual blend of politics, business and combat sports surrounding the event.
Gaethje stuns unbeaten Topuria for lightweight title
The main event produced one of the biggest upsets in recent UFC history. American fighter Justin Gaethje defeated previously unbeaten Ilia Topuria to capture the undisputed lightweight title after Topuria's corner stopped the contest before the fifth round.
Gaethje survived several difficult moments early in the fight as Topuria appeared to be in control. However, the American rallied as the bout progressed, leaving the champion badly swollen and bloodied by the later rounds.
The seven-fight card proved highly entertaining from a sporting perspective. Every contest ended by knockout or technical knockout, marking the first time in the UFC's history that an entire event card had finished without a single fight going to the judges' scorecards.
Other notable winners included Ciryl Gane, who secured the interim heavyweight title, along with Josh Hokit, Sean O'Malley and Bo Nickal.
Michelle Obama smear overshadows celebratory night
Despite the festive atmosphere, controversy emerged during the fight card. Following his second-round victory over Derrick Lewis, heavyweight prospect Josh Hokit left the cage to present Trump with a necklace before delivering a post-fight speech.
During his remarks, Hokit repeated a false conspiracy theory about former First Lady Michelle Obama. The claim, which has circulated for years despite being repeatedly debunked, drew mixed reactions from spectators and quickly became one of the night's most controversial moments.
The incident overshadowed parts of an event that had been intended as a showcase of American achievement and national pride.
Politics, patriotism and sport collide at White House
Politics surfaced elsewhere during the event. During O'Malley's bout against Canadian fighter Aiemann Zahabi, some spectators chanted slogans referencing Trump's past remarks about Canada. O'Malley later defeated Zahabi by second-round technical knockout.
The evening concluded shortly after 1am on Monday. Fireworks lit up the sky above the White House as Trump entered the cage to congratulate Gaethje and celebrate the American fighter's championship victory.
What began as a showcase of American patriotism and sporting spectacle ultimately combined elite competition, political theatre and controversy, leaving the historic event remembered for more than just the action inside the cage.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026
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Norway Crown Princess's Son Jailed for Two Rapes

Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of two counts of rape by Oslo District Court.

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The 29-year-old was cleared of two other rape charges but convicted of several additional offences, including violence and abuse against former partners. Høiby denied all four rape allegations.
The verdict was delivered on Monday by a panel of three judges. Høiby did not attend court in person because of unspecified health reasons and instead joined proceedings by video link.
Court Delivers Mixed Verdict
Prosecutors had sought a prison sentence of seven years and seven months, while defence lawyers argued for a term of 18 months. The defence team said it would consider an appeal.
Judge Jon Sverdrup Efjestad opened the hearing with a summary of the court’s findings before presenting a detailed 128-page ruling.
The court found Høiby guilty of raping two women. One case related to an incident on the Crown Prince’s Skaugum estate in 2018, while the second involved a woman in Oslo in 2024.
However, judges acquitted him of two other rape charges connected to separate incidents involving women he met in Oslo and in the Lofoten Islands.
Evidence and Victims
The case involved six women in total. One of the victims attended court to hear the verdict and was seen crying after the guilty finding.
Prosecutors argued that she had been asleep or otherwise unable to resist when the assault occurred following a party in Oslo in March 2024. The woman testified that she had been asleep and would never have consented to the act.
The court accepted that she had been incapable of resisting what took place. All four rape allegations in the case involved women who were either asleep or incapacitated.
Høiby was also convicted of abusing former girlfriend and influencer Nora Haukland, as well as causing serious bodily harm to another former partner. He was further found guilty of offences involving a sixth woman, known publicly as the “Frogner woman” after the Oslo district where she lived.
Compensation and Possible Appeal
The court ordered Høiby to pay a total of 640,000 Norwegian kroner in compensation to four women, including Haukland, the only complainant judges ruled could be identified publicly.
The sentence exceeded the punishment proposed by the defence, despite Høiby having admitted to other offences, including transporting 3.5kg of marijuana and committing traffic violations.
His lawyer, Petar Sekulic, said the defence had not yet spoken with Høiby following the ruling but indicated that an appeal remained a possibility. Defence lawyer Ellen Holager Andenæs said the team welcomed the acquittals while expressing concerns about other parts of the judgment.
Royal Family Under Scrutiny
Although Høiby is not a member of the royal family, the case has drawn significant public attention because he was raised alongside Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit after her marriage into the royal household.
The palace said it would not comment on the verdict. Attention has also focused on Mette-Marit’s health after she was placed on a lung transplant list due to pulmonary fibrosis.
Commentators said the case had damaged public perceptions of Norway’s royal family, although concern over the crown princess’s health has increasingly dominated public discussion.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026
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Nine Killed as Russian Attack Hits Kyiv Cathedral

At least nine people were killed in a large-scale Russian missile and drone assault on Ukraine that damaged a historic cathedral in Kyiv, according to Ukrainian officials.

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Cathedral Hit During Nationwide Attack
Four people died in attacks on the capital, while five rescue workers were killed while tackling a fire caused by a strike in the north-eastern city of Kharkiv. Authorities said a further 23 people were injured in Kyiv and five were wounded in Kharkiv.
The overnight bombardment left much of the country under air raid alerts on Monday morning.
Historic Religious Site Damaged
Among the sites affected was the 11th-century Dormition Cathedral, part of the UNESCO-listed Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
Images from the scene showed a large hole in one side of the cathedral and fire damage to part of its roof. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the strike as “one of the biggest Russian crimes against Christian culture today”.
The fire at the cathedral was later extinguished.
Russia denied striking the religious landmark, claiming instead that a US-made Patriot air defence missile had hit the site after apparently malfunctioning. Moscow did not provide evidence to support the allegation.
The cathedral has suffered damage before during Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in 2022. In January, Ukrainian officials reported damage to several buildings within the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra complex. The cathedral had also been largely destroyed during World War Two before being rebuilt.
Widespread Damage Across Kyiv
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said drone and missile attacks set buildings and vehicles ablaze and cut electricity supplies to more than 140,000 residents.
Zelensky said Russia launched 70 missiles and 611 drones during the overnight assault. Russia’s military said its “massive strike” targeted Ukrainian military facilities.
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the damage to the cathedral, writing on X that “nothing justifies this attack on our universal heritage”.
G7 Meeting Looms
The attacks came ahead of a G7 summit in France, where the war in Ukraine is expected to feature prominently on the agenda.
Zelensky said the gathering should deliver a “decisive and meaningful” response, including greater pressure on Russia and additional air defence support for Ukraine, particularly anti-ballistic missile systems.
The Ukrainian leader also said he had spoken with US President Donald Trump about efforts to bring an end to the conflict.
Meanwhile, Russian officials reported that a Ukrainian drone strike on the city of Tula killed three people and injured three others, including a one-year-old child.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026
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Starmer Announces UK Social Media Ban for Under-16s

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban social media access for children under 16 across the UK, saying the move is needed to protect young people from harmful online content, bullying and potential mental health risks.

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Speaking at Downing Street, Starmer said the measure would deliver “real change for our children and our future”, arguing that the benefits of social media no longer outweighed the risks faced by many young users.
Wider Restrictions Planned
Under the proposals, children under 16 would be barred from using major social media platforms. The government also intends to introduce restrictions on other online products, including gaming applications, with measures such as removing the ability for young users to communicate with strangers.
Starmer acknowledged that social media offers benefits for young people but said the government had concluded that a complete ban was the best option.
“This is not something I do lightly,” he said, adding that government decisions often involve difficult choices and that protecting children had become the priority.
Legislation Expected This Year
The prime minister said the government aims to pass legislation before the end of the year, with the restrictions expected to take effect next spring.
The announcement comes as concerns grow over the impact of online platforms on children’s wellbeing and safety. Starmer presented the policy as part of a broader effort to give children a fairer and safer environment in which to grow up.
Addressing concerns that teenagers may find ways around the restrictions, as some have reportedly done in Australia following similar measures, Starmer said the possibility of circumvention should not prevent action.
He compared the proposal to existing age restrictions on alcohol sales, arguing that laws serve not only as rules but also as statements of societal values. He said the ban would help shape expectations among parents and children and contribute to a safer online environment.
Support From Campaigners and Parents
The announcement was made before an audience that included campaigners advocating stronger protections for children online, including parents who had lost children. Starmer thanked those campaigners for their efforts and said he would not compromise on children's safety and happiness.
He acknowledged that implementing and enforcing the ban would be challenging but said the government had consulted widely, reviewed available evidence and examined approaches taken by countries such as Australia.
Tech Industry Concerns
Asked whether the policy could provoke opposition from major US technology companies, Starmer rejected suggestions that the move was anti-technology.
He said supporting technological innovation and artificial intelligence could coexist with stronger protections for children, arguing that the development of new technologies should not come at the expense of young people's safety.
The government also said that responses to its “growing up in the online world” consultation showed strong public backing for tougher measures, with nine in 10 parents supporting a minimum age of 16 for access to social media platforms.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026
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US, Iran Reach Peace Deal, Pakistan PM Says

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran is now in place, with a formal signing ceremony scheduled for June 19 in Switzerland.

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Sharif says ceasefire now in effect
Sharif said both sides had agreed to the "immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon."
Israel renews attacks on Beirut suburbs
The announcement came as Israel renewed air strikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut despite the reported ceasefire, raising questions about the agreement's implementation.
Trump declares deal complete
In a post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump declared that the deal with Iran was "now complete."
"Congratulations to all!" Trump wrote.
Trump also said he had authorized the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and ordered the immediate removal of the US naval blockade.
"Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!" he said.
Talks to continue before signing ceremony
Sharif thanked the US and Iran for their commitment to the agreement, as well as Qatar for supporting efforts to secure the deal.
He also praised the leadership of Saudi Arabia and Turkiye for what he described as their significant contributions to the negotiations.
According to Sharif, a series of meetings will take place this week to prepare for technical discussions ahead of the official signing ceremony in Switzerland on June 19.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026
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Trump Warns Iran, Israel Not to ‘Blow It’ on Peace Deal

President Donald Trump on Sunday urged Israel and Iran not to jeopardize an emerging peace agreement, warning that renewed violence in Lebanon could undermine efforts to finalize a deal aimed at easing tensions across the region.

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Writing on Truth Social, Trump said negotiators were close to reaching an agreement that could bring stability not only to Iran and the United States but also to neighboring Lebanon.
“We are very close to a Deal that will bring peace to the region, including to Lebanon, and all sides should stand down,” Trump said. He called for an end to attacks by both Israel and Hezbollah, adding: “This could be the beginning of a long and beautiful peace — Let’s not blow it!”
Beirut strike raises concerns
Trump’s comments came after Israeli forces struck Beirut on Sunday in response to three projectiles launched from Lebanon into northern Israel.
The Israeli military said no injuries were reported from the projectile fire and that the incident was being investigated. Trump described the initial attack on Israel as “small and meaningless,” noting that nobody had been killed or wounded.
He also criticized Israel’s retaliatory strike, saying the attack on Beirut should not have taken place at a time when negotiations were nearing a breakthrough.
Deal faces regional complications
According to a source cited by NewsNation, Israel’s military action in Lebanon has complicated efforts to complete the proposed agreement between Washington and Tehran. Israel is not a direct participant in the talks, although Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said earlier this week that he supports Trump’s commitment to securing a deal.
Trump had suggested on Saturday that a ceasefire agreement could be signed on Sunday. However, Iranian officials and state media have pushed back against that timeline.
Iran remains cautious
Efforts to advance negotiations continued on Sunday, with Qatari mediators traveling to Tehran for meetings with Iranian officials, according to a source familiar with the talks cited by Reuters.
A key element of the proposed agreement would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies pass.
Iranian state media indicated that while a formal agreement was unlikely to be signed on Sunday, negotiations could produce a final deal within days. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran remained cautious about commenting on the process because of what he described as inconsistency from the other side.
Democrats criticize terms
The reported outlines of the agreement have drawn criticism from some Democratic lawmakers.
Representative Seth Moulton of Massachusetts argued that the deal amounted to a concession, questioning whether reopening the Strait of Hormuz justified the costs of the conflict. He cited the financial burden of the war and the loss of American lives while criticizing the reported terms.
Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island also criticized the initiative, suggesting Trump was seeking a political achievement on his 80th birthday. Reed said the agreement came after what he described as significant financial costs associated with the conflict.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026

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Swiss Voters Reject Proposal to Cap Population at 10 Million

Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to limit the country's population to 10 million people, delivering a setback to the right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP), which had argued that immigration was placing excessive strain on public services and infrastructure.

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Referendum Defeats Immigration-Linked Plan
Official results showed that almost 55% voted against the measure, while about 45% supported it. Turnout reached 60%.
The referendum carried significant implications for Switzerland's relationship with the European Union. The proposal was opposed by the Swiss government, business groups and all other major political parties, which warned that approval could threaten the country's agreement on the free movement of people with the EU.
Swiss Justice Minister Beat Jans welcomed the outcome, describing it as a vote for “stability, openness and reliability”.
Concerns Over Economy and EU Ties
Switzerland's population has increased from 7.3 million in 2002 to around 9.1 million today. About 27% of residents are not Swiss citizens.
Supporters of the proposal argued that limiting population growth would help ease pressure on housing, transport networks and the environment. However, these arguments failed to attract enough support nationwide.
Business leaders and many voters expressed concern that stricter limits could reduce access to workers needed in sectors including tourism, healthcare and elderly care. Others feared economic consequences if Switzerland's ties with the EU were weakened.
More than half of Swiss exports are sold within the European Union. Continued access to the bloc's markets is linked to Switzerland's commitment to the free movement agreement. Had the proposal passed, Switzerland would have been required to end that arrangement.
Following the vote, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the result, saying Switzerland and the EU share strong links and a close partnership.
Debate Over Immigration and Public Services
The referendum highlighted a long-running political debate over immigration and its impact on Swiss society.
Marcel Dettling, president of the Swiss People's Party, said the result did not remove underlying concerns, arguing that voters still wanted solutions to problems such as housing shortages and rising costs.
The party has frequently linked immigration to challenges including crowded schools, pressure on healthcare services and increased demand for housing.
Critics rejected that argument. Helin Genis, a Social Democrat serving on Bern city council, said migrants were being unfairly blamed for issues that stem from political and economic decisions rather than immigration itself.
Before the vote, SVP politician Nils Fiechter argued that immigration was contributing directly to shortages in housing and public services. Opponents countered that focusing on migration risked deepening divisions without addressing the root causes of those problems.
Urban-Rural Divide Emerges
Voting patterns revealed a clear contrast between urban and rural areas. Swiss citizens are the only people eligible to vote in national referendums.
Cities with larger immigrant populations overwhelmingly rejected the proposal. In Bern, nearly 84% of voters opposed the population cap.
Tourism-dependent regions also voted against the measure. Cantons including Graubünden, home to St. Moritz, and Valais, which includes Zermatt and the Matterhorn area, rejected the plan amid concerns over labour shortages.
Employers warned that sectors such as hospitality, healthcare and care homes rely heavily on foreign workers. Opponents also noted that around one-fifth of Switzerland's population is now over the age of 65, increasing demand for younger workers and taxpayers.
The outcome suggests that while concerns over housing costs, public services and infrastructure remain significant, a majority of Swiss voters were unconvinced that restricting immigration was the best way to address them.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 June 2026
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Russia’s Manpower Edge Over Ukraine Begins to Fade

Russia's long-standing advantage in manpower over Ukraine is showing signs of weakening, despite increasingly generous financial incentives aimed at attracting recruits for the war.

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Military advertisements across Russia are offering signing bonuses worth millions of rubles, debt relief packages and promises of social status to encourage men to enlist. Some incentives are equivalent to several years of average earnings, while recent measures include writing off debts of up to $140,000 for those who join the armed forces.
Even so, recruitment appears to be slowing. According to Russian economy expert Janis Kluge, military enlistment fell by around 20% in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the previous year, suggesting that financial incentives may be losing their effectiveness.
Recruitment Challenges Grow
Since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin has relied heavily on Russia's larger population and defence industry to sustain a prolonged war of attrition. Higher oil prices linked to tensions involving Iran have provided additional revenue for Moscow, but analysts argue that money alone cannot solve mounting manpower problems.
Nigel Gould-Davies, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), said Russia is facing a situation in which troop losses may be exceeding the number of new recruits.
He noted that modern Russia has largely relied on financial incentives rather than compulsory service to fill its ranks, creating growing economic pressure. According to Gould-Davies, there are indications that the current recruitment model is becoming less effective.
Russia has already drawn heavily on alternative sources of manpower, including former prisoners, foreign recruits and several deployments of North Korean troops. The government has also sought to attract immigrants and expand recruitment efforts beyond traditional pools of volunteers.
Labour Shortages Hit the Economy
The war's impact extends beyond the battlefield. Analysts say Russia is experiencing a severe labour shortage as military recruitment and emigration have reduced the number of working-age men available to the civilian economy.
Defence factories are reportedly operating around the clock, leaving little room to expand production further. At the same time, competition for workers is pushing wages higher and contributing to inflationary pressures.
Some Western intelligence assessments estimate that nearly 500,000 Russian soldiers have been killed since the war began, while hundreds of thousands of people have left the country to avoid military service.
Analysts suggest the Kremlin may increasingly rely on foreign labour from countries such as India, North Korea and several African nations to offset shortages. More controversial options could include another large-scale mobilization campaign or tighter restrictions on men leaving the country, although such measures would likely be unpopular.
Economic Pressure Mounts
Maria Snegovaya of the Center for Strategic and International Studies argues that Russia may still be able to maintain recruitment by increasing pressure on poorer regions, students and foreign nationals. However, she says the economic burden of the war is becoming more visible.
Military personnel and recruitment spending account for a significant share of Russia's federal budget and economic output. Meanwhile, the country is facing sluggish growth, business closures and weak consumer confidence.
Although official inflation has moderated, households continue to face rising food and utility costs, while infrastructure disruptions linked to Ukrainian attacks have affected fuel supplies and transportation in some areas.
Ukraine Gains Through Innovation
At the same time, Ukraine is increasingly relying on technology to offset Russia's numerical advantages.
According to analysts, Ukrainian forces have made significant advances in drone warfare and unmanned systems. President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukrainian troops have successfully conducted operations using only drones and robotic systems, while thousands of unmanned ground missions were carried out during the first months of 2026.
Ukrainian military officials also claim Russia suffered net territorial losses for a second consecutive month in May, while drone operations inflicted casualties at a rate exceeding Russia's recruitment capacity.
Analysts say Russia's growing dependence on former prisoners and poorly trained recruits may further reduce battlefield effectiveness, even as Ukraine continues to develop new military technologies.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 June 2026

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UK Intercepts Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in Channel

British armed forces intercepted and boarded a Russian-linked oil tanker in the English Channel early on Sunday in a six-hour operation targeting Moscow's so-called shadow fleet, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said.

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The vessel, Smyrtos, was boarded by Royal Marine Commandos and specially trained officers from the National Crime Agency, with support from the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.
Vessel Held Off English Coast
The Ministry of Defence said the tanker is being held and monitored off England's south coast while investigations continue.
The operation involved aircraft from the Maritime Air Group, an RAF P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, as well as the Royal Navy warships HMS Sutherland and HMS Ledbury.
Officials described the action as part of wider efforts to disrupt Russia's ability to finance its war in Ukraine.
Starmer: Operation Targets Kremlin Funding
Starmer said the interception represented another setback for Russia and those helping to sustain President Vladimir Putin's military campaign.
"This successful operation delivers yet another blow to Russia and reminds those fueling Putin's war in Ukraine that we will not let them hide," the prime minister said.
Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis said Russia depends on its shadow fleet to generate revenue from oil exports despite international sanctions.
"Russia relies on its shadow fleet to fund their conflict in Ukraine and our interdiction delivers a blow to Putin's illegal war," Jarvis said.
Focus on Russia's Shadow Fleet
Western governments have accused Russia of using a large network of tankers with complex and often opaque ownership arrangements to evade sanctions imposed on its oil exports following the invasion of Ukraine.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the shadow fleet consists of more than 700 vessels and is responsible for transporting around 75% of Russia's sanctioned oil exports, providing a significant source of income for the Kremlin.
The UK government said it has already imposed sanctions on more than 500 vessels linked to the network.
The interception marks the latest effort by Britain and its allies to tighten enforcement measures against Russia's oil trade and limit funding for its military operations in Ukraine.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 June 2026
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Musk Faces Scrutiny Over Belfast Riot Posts on X

Elon Musk, recently named the world's first trillionaire, has come under renewed criticism following anti-immigrant riots in Belfast after researchers said posts he amplified on X generated tens of millions of views.

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Violence erupted in the Northern Irish capital after a knife attack on Monday. Police have charged a Sudanese national, Hadi Alodid, with attempted murder in connection with the incident.
Calls for Protest Amplified
Musk used X to promote calls for protests across Britain from anti-immigration activist Tommy Robinson. In a post to his roughly 240 million followers, Musk wrote: "Only by protesting REPEATEDLY and LOUDLY will there be any change."
He also shared anti-immigration content and posts from Rupert Lowe, leader of the fringe hard-right party Restore Britain, significantly increasing their visibility on the platform.
Researchers Highlight Reach
According to researchers at the nonprofit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), posts by Musk, Robinson and Lowe relating to the Belfast unrest attracted more than 115 million views combined. The group said Musk's account was responsible for 55% of that total.
In a report, CCDH said Musk's amplification generated around 64 million views and played a key role in spreading the content.
Watchdog Criticises Platform Owner
"As the owner of X and its most followed user, Musk has unparalleled power to shape what people see online," said CCDH founder and chief executive Imran Ahmed.
Ahmed said the research showed Musk had used the Belfast attack to amplify anti-migrant narratives to millions of users, while communities were dealing with the aftermath of violence and disorder.
He added that no individual had done more to spread such content on X during the crisis than Musk.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 June 2026
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Trump Administration Ordered to Restore Park Signs

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore signs and exhibits removed or altered at national parks under a directive aimed at reshaping how American history is presented.

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In a 63-page ruling issued on Friday, Judge Angel Kelley said the administration had sought to promote a selective version of history by removing displays that did not fit its preferred narrative.
“Under the guise of promoting American dignity, this Administration seeks to share a limited history,” Kelley wrote, arguing that the changes resulted in incomplete accounts of historical events.
Restoration Deadline Set
Kelley ordered the government to reinstate all affected signs and exhibits by July 3, ahead of celebrations marking the United States' 250th anniversary. She also barred the administration from making further changes to national park exhibits while the case proceeds.
The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed in February by conservation and advocacy groups against the Interior Department and the National Park Service. The groups alleged the administration was attempting to erase aspects of American history and weaken science-based interpretation at park sites.
Executive Order Challenged
The dispute centres on a March 2025 executive order signed by President Donald Trump titled Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History. The order directed federal agencies to address public content that it said “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living.”
According to advocacy group Save Our Signs, at least 45 displays covering subjects such as climate change and Native American history were modified or removed following the directive.
Among the examples highlighted in court was the removal of a marker at Grand Teton National Park that referenced explorer Gustavus Cheyney Doane’s role in the 1870 massacre of at least 173 Piegan Blackfeet people.
At Fort Sumter National Monument, an exhibit discussing the potential impact of rising sea levels on the historic site was removed entirely.
Administration Weighs Appeal
An Interior Department spokesperson criticised Kelley’s decision, describing her as a “liberal activist judge” and indicating that the department was considering an appeal.
The spokesperson said officials were reviewing their legal options while participating in anniversary celebrations at the White House.
Advocates Welcome Decision
Alan Spears of the National Parks Conservation Association, one of the groups behind the lawsuit, welcomed the ruling.
He said the decision temporarily halted what he described as the “sanitization” and censorship of historical interpretation within the national park system.
Spears argued that visitors should have access to the full scope of American history and said national parks play a crucial role in preserving and explaining the country's past.
In her ruling, Kelley echoed that view, describing national parks as “a cornerstone of public learning” and “America’s largest classroom.”
She said the government has a responsibility to present history in its entirety rather than through selective accounts, adding that federal officials had failed to uphold that principle.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 June 2026
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Trump Says US-Iran Deal Set for Sunday Signing

President Donald Trump has said a deal aimed at ending hostilities between the United States and Iran is due to be signed on Sunday, although Iranian officials have questioned whether the agreement will be finalised that quickly.

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In a social media post on Saturday, Trump said the agreement was scheduled to be signed the following day and claimed the Strait of Hormuz would reopen to international shipping immediately afterward.
“The Deal is scheduled to get signed tomorrow, and immediately after it is signed, the Hormuz Strait is OPEN TO ALL,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Iran Questions Timeline
Despite the optimism from Washington, Iran indicated that the timing remains uncertain.
Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said a memorandum of understanding was expected, but cautioned against assuming an immediate signing.
“We will have to wait and see about the exact date of the signing of the memorandum of understanding, although it will not be tomorrow,” Baghaei said.
Trump also referred to Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, stating that once conditions stabilise, the United States would retrieve what he described as “Nuclear Dust” and later destroy it.
He further warned that if the process did not proceed “quickly, easily and smoothly”, the US had “the ultimate alternative”, which he said he hoped would never be required.
Pakistan Signals Progress
Pakistan, which has played a mediating role in the talks, also suggested an agreement was close.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said preparations were under way for an electronic signing of the deal, with finalisation expected within 24 hours.
“With finalisation likely expected in the next 24 hours, Pakistan is preparing for the electronic signing of the peace deal immediately after, followed by technical level talks next week,” Sharif wrote on X.
On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said an agreement with the US had “never been closer”.
Deal Details Emerge
According to Araghchi, the proposed deal would end the conflict involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lift a US blockade on Iranian ports.
He said negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme would be addressed at a later stage.
US officials have confirmed some aspects of the proposed agreement, while stressing that economic benefits for Iran would depend on Tehran fulfilling its commitments.
Previous reports from the United States suggested Lebanon might not be included in the arrangement, while Iran had reportedly pushed for its inclusion.
Several earlier attempts to finalise a similar agreement have failed during the final stages of negotiations.
Conflict Continues Despite Ceasefire
The current conflict began on 28 February when US and Israeli forces launched strikes across Iran. Tehran responded with attacks against Israel and US-aligned Gulf states, while effectively shutting the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Although the two sides agreed to a ceasefire in April, intermittent exchanges of fire have continued. This week alone saw two rounds of retaliatory strikes between the US and Iran.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 June 2026
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Israel Strikes Lebanon as Iran-US Deal Nears

Israel carried out air strikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday after warning residents to evacuate around 20 locations, according to Lebanese state media.

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The Lebanese National News Agency reported that at least one person was killed in a strike on the town of Marrakeh in the Tyre district. The attacks came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel would target Hezbollah if the group continued attacks on northern Israel.
Peace Deal Moves Closer
The strikes coincided with growing optimism over negotiations aimed at ending hostilities between Iran and the United States.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose government is helping mediate the talks, said on X that the parties were closer than ever to reaching a peace agreement. He said finalisation of the deal could come within 24 hours and later added that preparations were under way for an electronic signing of the accord.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi also said an agreement was near. According to Araghchi, the proposed deal would not only end fighting between Iran and the US but could also help bring an end to the conflict involving Hezbollah in Lebanon.
He said the agreement would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and include the lifting of a US blockade on Iran. Discussions on Iran's nuclear programme, however, would take place during a later phase of negotiations.
Details of the Proposed Agreement
US officials have confirmed elements of the framework, while stressing that economic benefits for Iran would depend on Tehran meeting its commitments.
Under the proposal, the Strait of Hormuz would reopen and restrictions on Iranian shipping would be eased. A subsequent 60-day negotiation period would focus on Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium, which US officials say would ultimately be destroyed and removed from the country, although the exact process remains under discussion.
Washington also rejected reports suggesting Iran would receive immediate access to frozen assets. Instead, sanctions relief and broader economic reintegration would occur gradually as Iran fulfilled verified obligations.
The agreement would also require Iran to end support for regional proxy groups, including Hezbollah and other allied organisations across the Middle East.
US officials said the arrangement was based on verifiable actions rather than trust, with economic incentives linked to confirmed compliance.
Cautious Optimism Remains
The current conflict began on 28 February when US and Israeli forces launched strikes across Iran. Tehran responded with attacks against Israel and US-aligned Gulf states and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Although Iran and the US agreed to a ceasefire in April, both sides have continued exchanging intermittent strikes, including two rounds of retaliatory attacks this week.
US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he had cancelled planned attacks on Iran because negotiators had reached what he described as a major settlement.
Despite the positive signals from Washington, Tehran, Islamabad and mediator Qatar, officials acknowledge that the agreement has not yet been formally approved. Araghchi said Iran's Supreme National Security Council still contains both supporters and opponents of the latest terms.
"If approved, the agreement will be signed remotely," he said, adding that he remained hopeful a final accord could be announced within days.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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Workers Begin Removing Trump's Name From Kennedy Center

Workers started removing President Donald Trump’s name from the exterior of the Kennedy Center early on Saturday after the venue missed a court-ordered deadline and sought extra time to complete the work.

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The move followed a federal judge’s order requiring the historic performing arts institution to remove Trump’s name from its building and related materials. The center had been required to certify compliance by 11:59 p.m. on Friday but later informed the court that severe weather had delayed the process.
Deadline Missed After Storm Delays
Attorneys from the Justice Department, representing the Kennedy Center, said late Friday that thunderstorms in the Washington area had slowed progress. They told the court that crews expected to finish removing the signage during the early hours of Saturday.
US District Judge Casey Cooper had set the Friday night deadline. As of early Saturday, the judge had not publicly responded to the center’s request for additional time.
Workers spent Friday assembling scaffolding beneath the building’s exterior signage. Shortly before 2 a.m. on Saturday, crews appeared to enclose the structure with protective covering, limiting public visibility of the work. Video recorded through a gap in the covering later appeared to show workers taking down letters from the sign.
A crowd gathered nearby during the overnight operation, with some people chanting “Shame!” as work continued.
Appeals Court Rejects Last-Minute Request
Earlier on Friday, a federal appeals court declined to halt Cooper’s ruling, rejecting a last-minute effort by the Kennedy Center to delay compliance while the broader legal dispute continues.
The brief, unsigned decision did not provide a detailed explanation. The three-judge panel included Judge Gregory Katsas, appointed by Trump, along with Judges Patricia Millett and Robert Wilkins, both appointed by former President Barack Obama.
While refusing to pause the ruling, the appeals court requested additional legal submissions later this month regarding the center’s effort to suspend the lower court’s order. Until then, the Kennedy Center must continue complying with the judge’s directive.
The ruling requires Trump’s name to be removed not only from the building but also from the center’s website, promotional materials and other affiliated locations.
Donation Concerns Raised
In court filings, Justice Department lawyers argued that restoring the center’s previous name could create confusion if the government ultimately succeeds in overturning the ruling.
They also warned that compliance could affect fundraising. According to the filing, Kennedy Center bylaws require donations to be returned if Trump’s name is removed from the organization’s branding, marketing materials, façade or other affiliated locations.
Government lawyers told the appeals court that hundreds of millions of dollars in donations could be affected if those provisions are triggered.
Protesters and Political Supporters Gather
Protesters remained outside the center throughout Friday, chanting “Take it down” and praising workers involved in the removal effort.
Representative Joyce Beatty, an Ohio Democrat who has led the legal challenge, visited the site and expressed support for the court ruling. She said the campaign would continue regardless of further legal action and described the effort as a fight on behalf of the Kennedy family.
Trump’s name was added to the center in December after the board of trustees voted to honour the president. The decision followed major changes to the institution’s leadership and programming and drew criticism from members of the Kennedy family.
At a meeting on Thursday, the board approved a resolution praising Trump’s support for the arts center and created the Trump Kennedy Center Fund to attract additional private donations. Those funds would supplement the $257 million allocated by Congress through Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.” It remains unclear whether Trump will personally contribute to the fund.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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Switzerland Votes on 10 Million Population Cap

Swiss voters will head to the polls on Sunday to decide whether the country should impose a population cap of 10 million people, in a closely contested referendum that has exposed deep divisions over immigration, housing and Switzerland’s future relationship with Europe.

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The proposal, backed by the right-wing Swiss People's Party, is presented as a “sustainability initiative” designed to reduce pressure on housing, public services and the environment.
Population Growth at Centre of Referendum
Opponents, including the Swiss government, major political parties, business groups and trade unions, argue the measure would create economic disruption, worsen labour shortages and damage ties with the European Union.
Immigration Debate Divides Voters
Switzerland’s population has risen from 7.3 million in 2002 to 9.1 million today, with foreign residents accounting for around 27% of the population.
Supporters of the initiative say rapid population growth has contributed to housing shortages, crowded transport networks, rising healthcare costs and pressure on schools and social services.
Among them is local politician Nils Fiechter, who argues that immigration has become excessive and that Switzerland has lost control over population growth.
Critics reject that view. Helin Genis, a Social Democrat councillor in Bern, says migrants are being blamed for problems caused by broader policy decisions on housing, infrastructure and public investment.
Recent opinion polls suggest the result could be extremely close. Surveys indicate a narrow lead for the “No” campaign, with around 52% opposed and 45% in favour, while a significant share of voters remain undecided.
How the Population Cap Would Work
The proposal would require Switzerland’s population to remain below 10 million until 2050. The government would be instructed to take action once the population reaches 9.5 million.
Potential measures could include reducing asylum admissions and ending family reunification rights for foreign workers.
The initiative also states that if the population reaches 10 million, Switzerland would have to withdraw from international agreements that prevent enforcement of the cap. This could include ending participation in the EU’s free movement of people framework.
Economic and Diplomatic Concerns
Business groups warn that restricting immigration could create serious labour shortages.
Foreign workers play a major role in sectors including hospitality, healthcare and elder care. Employers argue that access to skilled workers from across Europe is vital for the Swiss economy, particularly as the country’s population ages.
Rudolf Minsch of Economiesuisse has warned that approving the initiative could complicate relations with the European Union, Switzerland’s largest trading partner.
Opponents also argue that Switzerland needs younger workers and taxpayers to help support a growing elderly population, with around one-fifth of residents now aged over 65.
Fears of Isolation
The referendum comes amid broader concerns about Switzerland’s international position. Despite its longstanding neutrality, the country has been moving towards closer defence cooperation with neighbouring states while facing economic pressures linked to global conflicts and trade disputes.
Social Democrat parliamentarian Jon Pult has warned that the initiative risks leaving Switzerland isolated at a time of growing international uncertainty.
Supporters dismiss such concerns, arguing that both Switzerland and the EU have strong incentives to maintain their existing economic relationship regardless of the vote’s outcome.
As campaigning enters its final hours, voters appear split between concerns over population growth and fears that tighter limits could weaken Switzerland’s economic and diplomatic standing.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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Sweden Opts Against Jailing Serious Offenders Aged 13

Sweden has abandoned plans to allow serious offenders as young as 13 to be imprisoned after failing to secure sufficient parliamentary backing.

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Instead, the centre-right government will introduce legislation to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 14 ahead of legislative elections scheduled for September.
Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer said the change would enable authorities to impose sanctions that are more proportionate to serious crimes while improving opportunities for rehabilitation.
“By lowering the age of criminal responsibility... fairer and proportionate sanctions can be imposed, and we will be able to create better conditions for rehabilitation than today,” Strömmer said.
Concern Over Youth Gang Violence
The move comes as Sweden continues to face growing problems with children being recruited by violent criminal gangs.
According to Strömmer, more than 50 children under the age of 15 appeared in court last year on charges of murder or attempted murder.
Under current law, children younger than 15 cannot be imprisoned and are instead placed in youth detention facilities known as SiS homes. The government argues that the existing system has failed to prevent reoffending and, in some cases, has contributed to further criminal involvement.
Although plans to imprison 13-year-olds have been dropped, authorities have instructed eight prisons to prepare dedicated sections for younger offenders, separated from adult inmates.
Strömmer said the proposed reforms were aimed at protecting society from serious violent crime and safeguarding victims, many of whom are also children.
Critics Question Effectiveness
Children’s rights advocates have criticised the proposal, arguing that strengthening existing youth facilities would be more effective than lowering the age of criminal responsibility.
Maria Frisk, secretary general of Swedish children's rights organisation Bris, said there was no evidence that reducing the age threshold to 14 would reverse current trends.
At the same time, concerns have grown over reports that some SiS homes have become recruitment grounds for criminal networks.
Gang Conflict Fuels Security Concerns
Sweden has experienced a rise in deadly violence over the past decade. The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention reported 121 homicides in 2023, compared with 87 ten years earlier, although the figure fell to 92 in 2024.
One of the country's most notorious criminal groups, the Foxtrot gang, has frequently used teenagers to carry out crimes ranging from shootings and bomb attacks to contract killings.
Violence surged in 2023 during a feud between Foxtrot leader Rawa Majid and rival gang leader Ismail Abdo. Abdo was arrested in Turkey in 2025, while Majid is believed to be in the Middle East.
Several attacks involving suspects aged 13 and 14 have also targeted sites linked to Israel, including facilities belonging to Elbit Systems in Gothenburg and the Israeli embassy in Stockholm.
Sweden's security service, Säpo, has alleged that Iran recruited Swedish gang members to carry out attacks on Israeli and Jewish targets. Iran has denied the accusations, describing them as unfounded and based on misinformation.
In 2025, both the United States and the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on Foxtrot and Majid, citing their alleged involvement in attacks on Jewish and Israeli targets in Europe on behalf of the Iranian government.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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Starmer Says He Has Duty to Stay Despite Defence Crisis

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said he has a duty to remain in office despite growing political pressure, defending his government's defence spending plans after the resignation of two senior ministers.

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Speaking to the BBC a day after Defence Secretary John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns stepped down, Starmer said difficult choices were necessary to fund defence commitments.
He argued that all government departments had been required to make savings in order to prioritise military spending and insisted that defence remained at the centre of his government's agenda.
"Whoever is prime minister is going to face the same prevailing winds as I am facing," Starmer said, suggesting that any successor would encounter the same financial and political constraints.
Asked whether he intended to lead Labour into the next general election, the prime minister said he wanted to do so but acknowledged that he needed to improve his political standing.
He said he had no desire to trigger a leadership contest, describing such a move as potentially destabilising, but added that he would contest any challenge that emerged.
Defence Funding Dispute
The resignations followed an escalating disagreement over funding for the government's Defence Investment Plan (DIP), a long-delayed strategy outlining spending on military equipment and infrastructure over the coming decade.
In his resignation letter, Healey accused Starmer of failing to commit the resources needed to guarantee national security. The former defence secretary argued that planned spending increases were insufficient and called for faster growth in military expenditure.
Starmer rejected that criticism, saying defence was his government's "number one priority" and would continue to receive preferential treatment during future spending reviews.
He pointed to reductions in overseas aid spending as evidence that ministers had already taken difficult decisions to free up resources for defence.
The government has pledged to raise defence spending to 3.5% of gross domestic product by 2035. Healey argued that the UK should reach 3% by 2030, claiming the current investment plan would increase spending only to 2.68% of national income by that date.
Starmer said significant new funding had already been committed and that the investment plan contained further spending beyond existing allocations.
Leadership Pressure Grows
The dispute has intensified scrutiny of Starmer's leadership following Labour's poor performance in local elections earlier this year.
Although no formal leadership contest has been launched, speculation has increased about possible challengers. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is expected to consider a leadership bid if he secures victory in the upcoming Makerfield by-election.
Without naming any potential rivals, Starmer said governing required difficult trade-offs and warned against simplistic solutions to spending challenges.
"For every answer that is being suggested, the question has to be what you would not do instead," he said.
Critics Demand Clearer Priorities
Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who has previously indicated he would enter a leadership contest, said disagreements over defence spending reflected broader indecision within the government.
Writing on X, he questioned whether defence or economic growth was the government's main priority and criticised spending commitments elsewhere while defence budgets remained under pressure.
Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the government should cut welfare spending to fund defence properly.
The Liberal Democrats' defence spokesperson, James MacCleary, said both major parties had failed to provide the armed forces with adequate support. He reiterated his party's proposal to introduce war bonds, which it says could raise £20 billion for defence.
Starmer said the Defence Investment Plan would still be published before a NATO summit scheduled for early July, despite the recent ministerial departures.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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Iran Says Peace Deal With US Is Within Reach

Iran has said an agreement with the United States to end months of hostilities is closer than ever, with both Tehran and Pakistani mediators expressing optimism that a final deal could soon be completed.

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Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said a deal to end the fighting had “never been closer”. The assessment was echoed by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose government has been mediating talks between the two sides.
Sharif said negotiators had reached a final agreed text and were working with both parties on the next steps. However, neither side has officially released details of any proposed agreement.
Dispute Over Reported Terms
US President Donald Trump reposted Araghchi’s comments while urging media outlets not to speculate about the contents of the negotiations.
The remarks came after Iranian media published what they claimed were details of the proposed agreement. Trump rejected the reports, saying they had “nothing to do with the terms that were agreed to” and bore “no relation to the truth”.
He accused Tehran of leaking inaccurate information and described Iranian negotiators as “very dishonorable people to deal with”.
On Thursday, Trump said he had cancelled planned US attacks against Iran because negotiators had reached what he called a “great settlement” that could be signed soon.
Conflict and Ceasefire Efforts
The current crisis began on 28 February, when US and Israeli forces carried out extensive strikes across Iran. Tehran responded with attacks on Israel and US-aligned states in the Gulf and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Although a ceasefire was agreed in April, the US and Iran have continued to exchange sporadic fire, including two rounds of retaliatory strikes earlier this week.
Israel is not participating in the current negotiations, which are largely being mediated by Pakistan. The talks are intended to extend the ceasefire and launch broader negotiations on issues including Iran’s nuclear programme.
Western governments have long accused Iran of seeking to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran denies, insisting its nuclear activities are intended for civilian energy production and research.
Conflicting Expectations
Iran’s Mehr news agency reported that Tehran was seeking measures including the lifting of a US naval blockade, compensation of at least $300 billion for damage caused by US and Israeli strikes, and endorsement of any final agreement through a UN Security Council resolution.
The reported terms also suggested Iran wanted sanctions relief, access to frozen assets and the suspension of restrictions on oil exports before final negotiations begin.
US officials have strongly disputed those claims.
A senior US administration official said the proposed agreement would require Iran’s nuclear material to be removed or destroyed and its nuclear programme dismantled. The official added that no Iranian funds would be released until Tehran met US conditions, reopened the Strait of Hormuz and ceased support for militant groups including Hezbollah.
US Vice-President JD Vance also rejected reports that Iran would receive immediate financial benefits, saying any rewards would depend on compliance with the agreement.
Deal Remains Unfinished
According to US officials, the proposed arrangement would be performance-based, with economic incentives tied to specific Iranian actions.
Officials estimated the chances of a deal being signed at between 80% and 85%, while acknowledging delays caused by the complexity of the negotiations and divisions within Iran’s government.
The US administration also expressed confidence that regional partners, including Israel and members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, would ultimately support the agreement while retaining the right to self-defence.
Pakistan, meanwhile, warned against what it described as misinformation aimed at undermining the negotiations, insisting that a peace deal is closer than at any previous stage of the talks.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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Elon Musk becomes world’s first trillionaire

SpaceX began trading on US stock markets on Friday with a valuation exceeding $2 trillion, making chief executive Elon Musk the world's first trillionaire and placing the aerospace company among the largest publicly traded firms in the United States.

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The company’s shares opened at $150, up 11% from the initial public offering (IPO) price of $135. The opening price gave SpaceX a market value of about $1.96 trillion, putting it on course to become the sixth-largest listed company in the country.
By the first hour of trading, shares under the ticker symbol SPCX had climbed further to $164.99.
Strong Demand for Shares
SpaceX raised $75 billion through the offering, initially valuing the company at $1.77 trillion. Demand for the IPO was particularly strong, with orders reportedly exceeding the available shares by four times.
According to reports, around 70% of shares allocated to institutional investors went to long-term investment funds and sovereign wealth funds, including investors from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell and Chief Financial Officer Bret Johnsen rang the opening bell at the Nasdaq MarketSite in New York City as trading commenced.
Delayed Trading and Protests
Despite the strong interest, shares did not begin changing hands immediately after markets opened. Exchange operators and underwriters delayed trading until buy and sell orders could be balanced, a precaution aimed at ensuring an orderly debut.
The launch was also accompanied by protests outside the Nasdaq MarketSite. Demonstrators voiced concerns over allegations involving Grok, an artificial intelligence product developed by xAI, which critics claim enabled the creation of non-consensual sexualised deepfake images before the IPO.
Market participants were particularly focused on avoiding the technical problems that affected the public debut of Meta Platforms in 2012.
Test for Future Mega-Listings
Analysts said investors were closely watching the offering as a gauge of demand for future high-profile technology flotations.
Samuel Kerr, global head of equity capital markets at Mergermarket, said expectations were for a sharp rise in the share price due to strong investor enthusiasm surrounding the deal.
The listing is also being viewed as a benchmark for planned public offerings by major artificial intelligence companies, including Anthropic and OpenAI.
Revenue Growth Driven by Starlink
The public debut further strengthened Musk’s position among the world’s wealthiest individuals and pushed SpaceX into the ranks of the most valuable companies globally.
The achievement comes despite the company reporting a loss of nearly $5 billion last year and generating significantly less revenue than many technology firms with comparable market valuations.
Much of SpaceX’s recent growth has been driven by its satellite internet business, Starlink, which accounts for roughly 80% of company revenue.
Separately on Friday, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 satellites from Cape Canaveral, underscoring the company’s continued expansion in the commercial space sector.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026
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David Hockney, British Pop Art Pioneer, Dies Aged 88

David Hockney, the influential British artist whose vibrant paintings helped shape modern art and became synonymous with images of California life, has died at the age of 88.

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Born in Bradford in 1937, Hockney emerged as one of Britain's most celebrated artists during the 1960s. Associated with the Pop Art movement, he gained international recognition for works depicting swimming pools, bright sunshine and everyday life in Los Angeles. Paintings such as A Bigger Splash and Portrait of an Artist (Pool With Two Figures) became defining images of his career.
Over more than six decades, Hockney continually reinvented his artistic approach. Beyond painting, he explored photography, photo-collage, landscape art and digital media, embracing new technologies throughout his life. His later work included creations made using iPads, computers and 3D tools, reflecting a lifelong fascination with how images are made and viewed.
Early Life and Education
Hockney grew up in a working-class family in Bradford and showed artistic talent from a young age. After studying at Bradford College, he sold his first painting, a portrait of his father, in 1957.
Following national service as a hospital orderly, he enrolled at the Royal College of Art in London in 1959. There he developed a reputation as both a gifted artist and a challenger of convention. His refusal to conform to some academic requirements nearly prevented him from graduating, although the college ultimately awarded him a diploma in recognition of his exceptional work.
Breaking Social Boundaries
Hockney's early paintings openly depicted gay life at a time when homosexuality remained illegal in Britain. Works such as We Two Boys Together Clinging and Cleaning Teeth, Early Evening (10pm) W11 challenged prevailing social attitudes and established him as a bold artistic voice.
With his distinctive blond hair, round glasses and cigarette often in hand, he became a familiar figure in London's cultural scene and later among artists and celebrities in the United States. Despite his reputation for enjoying the social life of the era, he maintained a prolific work ethic throughout his career.
Success in Los Angeles
After relocating to Los Angeles in the mid-1960s, Hockney produced many of his most acclaimed works. His paintings combined bright colours with emotional depth, exploring themes of love, relationships and human connection.
In 2018, Portrait of an Artist (Pool With Two Figures) sold for $90.3 million, setting a record at the time for the most expensive work by a living artist sold at auction. The painting was inspired by the end of a romantic relationship and remains one of his most celebrated achievements.
Innovation and Later Years
Hockney's curiosity extended beyond traditional painting. His photo-collages, which he called "joiners", assembled multiple images to challenge conventional ideas of perspective and visual representation. He also worked in theatre and opera design, creating sets and costumes for stage productions.
New technologies consistently attracted his attention. Throughout his career he experimented with photocopiers, fax machines, printers and digital devices, viewing each as another way to create pictures.
Personal Challenges
In 2005, Hockney returned from Los Angeles to Yorkshire. Eight years later, he suffered a personal tragedy when his assistant, Dominic Elliott, died at his home in Bridlington. Hockney later said the loss left him unable to draw for a period and made him consider abandoning art.
Known for his independent views, Hockney reportedly declined a knighthood on several occasions and once turned down a request to paint Queen Elizabeth II. His 2001 book Secret Knowledge sparked debate among historians by questioning how Old Master paintings had been created.
Legacy
Hockney remained active into his later years, continuing to create and experiment despite health challenges, including a stroke in 2012. Widely regarded as one of Britain's greatest living artists, he left behind a body of work that transformed perceptions of portraiture, landscape and visual storytelling.
Reflecting on life in a 2015 interview, Hockney said he did not spend much time looking back. "I live now," he said. "It's always now."

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026
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Iran Says No Final Deal Reached Despite Trump Claims

Iran has said no final agreement has been reached to end its conflict with the United States, pushing back against President Donald Trump's assertion that a deal could be signed within days.

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Trump had earlier threatened fresh military action against Iran, warning that the US would strike the country "very hard" again. However, he later said planned attacks had been called off because negotiators had reached what he described as a "great settlement" with Tehran.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said the agreement was awaiting the completion of final documents and suggested a signing ceremony could take place in Europe. He added that the paperwork was in its final stages and could be completed quickly.
Tehran rejects reports of completed agreement
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, dismissed reports of a completed agreement as premature.
He said claims that a deal had been reached were "speculative" and stressed that "nothing has been finalised". While acknowledging that much of the proposed memorandum had already been drafted, Baghaei said Washington had introduced what he described as excessive demands and additional conditions.
He also reiterated that Iran would not cross its "red lines" during negotiations.
Conflict continues despite ceasefire
The latest diplomatic exchanges come after months of conflict that began when the US and Israel launched extensive strikes against Iran on 28 February.
Iran responded with attacks on Israel and US-aligned states in the Gulf and effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Although a ceasefire was agreed in April, tensions have remained high. The US and Iran have continued to exchange sporadic attacks, including two rounds of retaliatory strikes this week.
Hours before speaking optimistically about a potential agreement, Trump had warned that the United States would strike Iran again and threatened action against key oil facilities, including Kharg Island, through which most Iranian oil exports pass.
Iran responded with warnings of stronger retaliation if further attacks occurred. The country's military said that if Iran's oil and gas exports were threatened, energy exports throughout the region could also be affected.
Oil prices fall as hopes for deal grow
Trump said the proposed agreement would ensure Iran never obtained a nuclear weapon, describing that objective as the central reason for the conflict.
He also suggested the Strait of Hormuz would reopen once an agreement was formally signed. According to Trump, regional leaders, including Gulf allies and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, had reacted positively to the developments.
Israel confirmed that Netanyahu had spoken with Trump but stressed that Israel was not a party to the memorandum of understanding under discussion. The Israeli government said it supported efforts aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear programme, missile production and regional influence.
Financial markets reacted positively to the prospect of an agreement. Brent crude oil prices fell about 4.4% to roughly $89 a barrel.
Recent clashes raise tensions
The latest military exchanges followed the crash of a US Apache helicopter in the Gulf on Monday.
On Wednesday, the US Central Command said it had carried out strikes against military, surveillance and radar installations in southern Iran.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps later said it targeted American bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Authorities in Bahrain reported that an 11-year-old girl was injured in a drone attack and that several homes and vehicles were damaged.
Negotiations between Washington and Tehran have continued for months, with Trump repeatedly expressing confidence that an agreement was near. However, previous claims of imminent progress have not resulted in a final deal.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026
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Israeli Demolitions Fuel Palestinian Anger in East Jerusalem

The sound of demolition machinery echoes through the hills below Jerusalem's Old City as an Israeli excavator tears into another Palestinian home in the al-Bustan area of Silwan.

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Since late 2023, 59 properties have been demolished in the neighbourhood, where residents say the pace of destruction has accelerated while international attention has focused on conflicts in Gaza, Iran and Lebanon.
Homes Reduced to Rubble in Silwan
"There is no future. They destroyed the future and everything else," said 58-year-old Fayez Awad, speaking from the only remaining floor of his home.
"We spent our whole lives building this house. This is all we managed to achieve in life. They brought us back to zero again, me and my children."
Dispute Over Land and Planning
East Jerusalem has remained at the centre of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since Israel captured it from Jordan in the 1967 Middle East War and later annexed it, a move not recognised by most countries.
For around two decades, Jerusalem's municipality has pursued plans to transform al-Bustan into a biblical-themed park known as the King's Garden, to be operated by a Jewish settler organisation. Demolition orders issued by Israeli courts have recently been enforced at a faster rate.
The municipality said it was acting "for the benefit of all city residents" and aimed to create a park in an area lacking public open space.



Palestinian residents argue that obtaining Israeli building permits in East Jerusalem is extremely difficult. According to the Israeli planning rights group Bimkom, Palestinians received only 7% of newly approved housing in Jerusalem in 2025 despite making up about 40% of the city's population.
About half of al-Bustan's homes have now been demolished. Many residents facing demolition orders have chosen to destroy their own properties to avoid substantial municipal fines and demolition costs.
"We're being given warnings that in the coming months they'll destroy the rest of the houses," said community activist Fakhri Abu Diab, whose own home has already been demolished.
Evictions and Settlement Expansion
Israel has built roughly 160 settlements housing around 700,000 Jewish residents across the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Settlements and the transfer of populations into occupied territory are considered illegal under international law, a position rejected by Israel.
According to the United Nations, around 200 Palestinian households, comprising about 900 people, are currently facing eviction proceedings in East Jerusalem, most of them initiated by settler groups.
In nearby Batn al-Hawa, Palestinian families are being removed from homes where they have lived for decades under laws that allow Jewish ownership claims dating from before Israel's establishment in 1948. Palestinians do not have equivalent rights to reclaim property inside Israel.
Israeli anti-settlement groups say the changes are reshaping the city's demographic and political landscape.
Yonatan Mizrahi of Peace Now said Silwan's archaeological and religious significance has made it a focus for projects highlighting Jewish historical connections to the area.
Families Fear Losing Their Last Homes
Elsewhere in the Old City, another legal battle has placed members of the Basha family at risk of eviction from a building linked to a Jewish religious school.
The family traces its presence there to the British Mandate era, when Mohammed Basha Abdulghani was allowed to live in part of the property after protecting it during periods of unrest.
Although a court recently granted a temporary injunction while an appeal is considered, family members fear they could still lose their homes.
"What will we do?" asked 76-year-old Mufid Basha. "We've nowhere else to go. This is the only home I've ever known."
Rights groups also warn that land registration measures introduced in East Jerusalem in 2018 are contributing to Palestinian displacement.
Calls for International Action
During a recent visit by foreign diplomats to Silwan, residents urged the international community to intervene.
The European Union recently described the situation in East Jerusalem, particularly in Silwan, as "dire" and reiterated its opposition to Israeli settlement activity.
Among those facing uncertainty is 97-year-old Yusra Qweider, who has been displaced three times since 1948. After living in her current home for more than 50 years, she now faces an eviction notice.
"They want to kick us out of here," she said. "I am sick and I can't walk. We are counting on God."

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026
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Manchester Girl, 14, Charged with Attempted Murder

A 14-year-old girl has been charged with three counts of attempted murder following a stabbing incident at a secondary school in north Manchester.

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The teenager was charged on Thursday after the Crown Prosecution Service authorised the case. She also faces two counts of possessing a bladed article on school premises.
She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday.
Charges Follow School Incident
Police were called to Co-op Academy Manchester on Plant Hill Road in Blackley on 9 June after reports of a stabbing at the school.
Three people were injured in the incident, prompting a major police response and an investigation involving Counter Terrorism Policing North West and Greater Manchester Police.
Authorities have not released further details about the victims.
Investigation Continues
Detective Chief Superintendent Jonathan Chadwick, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North West, said the charges against the teenager were extremely serious.
He said officers were continuing to support the victims and their families, as well as the wider school community, which had been deeply affected by the incident.
Support for School Community
Chadwick said that although charges had now been brought, investigators were continuing their work.
He added that police were working closely with local officers in the Blackley area as the investigation remains ongoing.
No further information has been released.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026
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Healey Resigns as UK Defence Secretary Over Spending Row

John Healey has resigned as defence secretary following a prolonged dispute within government over military spending plans, saying proposed funding levels were insufficient to meet growing security challenges.

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In a strongly worded resignation letter, Healey said the financial settlement for the government's Defence Investment Plan (DIP) “falls well short” of what Britain requires at a time of increasing global threats. He argued that both the prime minister and the Treasury had failed to provide the resources needed to strengthen national defence.
Defence Secretary Quits After Budget Dispute
Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejected those claims, insisting the forthcoming plan would deliver a record increase in defence spending while maintaining fiscal discipline. He said the strategy would be funded through difficult spending choices across government rather than additional borrowing.
Armed Forces Minister Also Steps Down
The crisis deepened when Armed Forces Minister Al Carns also resigned on Thursday evening.
Carns accused the government of failing to equip the military adequately, saying efforts to secure greater investment had been ignored.
“I've spent my whole time in government making that case,” he said. “Number 10 will not listen, so I am resigning as minister for the armed forces.”
The departure of Healey, regarded as one of Starmer’s closest allies in cabinet, represents a major setback for a government already facing mounting political pressure.
Pressure Mounts on Starmer
Healey becomes the second cabinet minister to leave the government in recent weeks after former health secretary Wes Streeting resigned, citing a loss of confidence in the prime minister’s leadership.
The resignations come ahead of a crucial by-election in which Labour candidate Andy Burnham is seeking a return to Parliament, potentially positioning himself as a future challenger for the party leadership.
Starmer has also faced criticism from within Labour following disappointing election results across England, Scotland and Wales last month, although he has said he intends to contest any future leadership challenge.
Defence Plan at Centre of Dispute
Disagreements over defence funding have intensified for months amid repeated delays to the Defence Investment Plan, originally expected last autumn.
The issue has become increasingly urgent ahead of a NATO summit in Turkey next month, where Starmer had planned to unveil the strategy.
Healey argued that defence demands had risen significantly since the start of the year due to conflict in the Middle East and expanded British commitments in Ukraine and the Arctic.
Reports suggest the government is considering an additional £13.5bn for the Ministry of Defence over the next four years, well below the £28bn increase requested by the department.
In his resignation letter, Healey criticised the proposed settlement for delaying much of the spending until later years, despite what he described as immediate pressures on military readiness.
He warned that the current timetable would leave Britain moving too slowly towards strengthening its armed forces and said he was being forced to make decisions that would weaken operational preparedness.
Funding Debate Continues
The government has pledged to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035 but has not yet outlined how the commitment will be financed.
Reports indicate ministers are considering reducing capital budgets across government departments by 1% to help fund defence priorities.
Healey has argued that spending should reach 3% of GDP by 2030 instead, citing warnings that Russia could pose a direct threat to NATO within the decade.
Last year's Strategic Defence Review called for greater “warfighting readiness”, including investment in ammunition stockpiles, advanced fighter aircraft, drones and new attack submarines.
Opposition politicians seized on the resignations, with Conservative shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge saying Healey had been left with no option but to quit, while Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice said the departures raised questions about the government's defence priorities.
Kevin Craven, chief executive of the defence industry association ADS Group, described Healey's resignation as a damaging verdict on the government's handling of defence policy.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026
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World Cup Opens in Mexico With Shakira-Led Spectacle

The 2026 FIFA World Cup got under way in Mexico City on Thursday with a colourful opening ceremony featuring international music stars, cultural performances and thousands of fans at the iconic Azteca Stadium.

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Supporters packed the venue ahead of Mexico’s opening match against South Africa, marking the first time the country has hosted a World Cup match on home soil in 40 years. The atmosphere was one of celebration and anticipation as fans gathered to witness the start of football’s biggest tournament.
For many supporters, the opening match represented a rare opportunity to experience the World Cup in their own country.
Javier Pérez, attending the match with his family, said the chance to witness the tournament in person outweighed any difficulties encountered during the build-up.
He described the occasion as a unique experience and expressed hope that Mexico would make a strong start to the competition.
Music and culture take centre stage
The opening festivities were led by Colombian singer Shakira and featured performances from fellow Colombian artist J Balvin, Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy, Venezuelan singer Danny Ocean and Mexican musician Fher Olvera.
A welcoming message to visiting fans highlighted Mexico’s diversity, heritage and pride, while emphasizing football’s ability to unite people across generations and nations.
Performers appeared in indigenous-inspired attire, while others carried oversized golden footballs as part of the ceremony. The stadium itself provided a colourful backdrop, with fans dressed in national team colours and traditional outfits.
Tournament follows challenging build-up
The tournament arrives after a complicated period of preparation.
Renovations at Mexico City’s airport and the Azteca Stadium, protests linked to the event and concerns about cartel-related violence in recent months had all formed part of the discussion surrounding the World Cup before kickoff.
However, those issues largely faded from view as attention shifted to the opening ceremony and the start of the competition.
Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with the United States and Canada. The other host nations are scheduled to stage their own opening celebrations on Friday.
Global stars join opening festivities
The ceremony also featured performances connected to the tournament’s official music programme. Opera singer Andrea Bocelli and singer Ejae performed the World Cup anthem, DNA, which was released on Wednesday.
Mexican singer Alejandro Fernández, son of legendary performer Vicente Fernández, led the rendition of the Mexican national anthem, joined by many of the 80,000 spectators inside the stadium.
South African artist Tyla performed her country’s national anthem ahead of the opening match. The Grammy-winning singer, known for hits including Water and the FIFA track Game Time, is also set to appear at the United States opening ceremony in Los Angeles.
FIFA has enlisted a wide range of international artists for events across the tournament, many of whom feature on the 18-track Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album.
With the opening ceremony complete and the first match under way, attention now turns to the football as the month-long tournament begins across North America.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026
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