Race for French presidency sees ex-PM Philippe as early favourite to beat populists

Latest polls suggest the centre-right figure is the only candidate who can defeat Marine Le Pen or Jean-Luc Mélenchon.

from BBC News https://ift.tt/bMonxHS

Iran steps up claim to control Strait of Hormuz

Iran publishes a map claiming "armed forces oversight" across more than 22,000 sq km of the waterway.

from BBC News https://ift.tt/mi98CSk

Dozens of vehicles burnt as Mali jihadists enforce blockade ahead of Eid holiday

The blockade has led to shortages of fuel and food ahead of next week's Muslim holiday of Eid.

from BBC News https://ift.tt/OUBEi21

Could a football match soften North Korea-South Korea relations?

A North Korean women's football team played in South Korea marking the first time athletes from the North have crossed the border in nearly 8 years.

from BBC News https://ift.tt/sVd7X3A

Whale to be removed from Danish island after failed German rescue

Danish officials will conduct a post mortem examination on the whale, which was released into the sea from a barge more than two weeks ago.

from BBC News https://ift.tt/XgcZ6br

Victim or enabler? Epstein girlfriend who could face questions despite plea deal

Nadia Marcinko is relatively unknown but may soon be called before US legislators.

from BBC News https://ift.tt/Bvr2RIw

Shakira wins £50m tax refund from Spanish government

The Colombian singer says the court ruling means the "narrative" that she was guilty now "crumbles".

from BBC News https://ift.tt/KUpl8Vs