Four Killed in Second Turkish School Shooting in Two Days Tragedy at Southern School Sparks Investigation A second school shooting in Turkey has claimed four lives, with multiple others reported wounded, according to the local governor. The attack occurred at Ayser Calik Secondary School in Kahramanmaras, as detailed by regional media outlets. Details about the victims and the attacker’s fate remain unconfirmed, though authorities are actively assessing the situation. Previous Attack Leaves 16 Injured The incident follows a similar attack at another high school in the southern region the previous day. A former student opened fire before taking his own life, resulting in 16 injuries. Kahramanmaras Governor Mukerrem Unluer stated that at least 20 people were wounded in the latest assault, some of whom are in critical condition. Authorities have not yet disclosed the motive behind Wednesday’s shooting. An ongoing investigation is examining the events, with reports indicating the attacker carried five firearms and seven ammunition clips, which are believed to belong to his father. “The gunfire was deafening,” said a reporter for Turkish broadcaster NTV, describing the chaos that ensued at the school. Scene Captured on Footage Video from the scene shows a frantic crowd, some capturing the chaos on their phones, while emergency vehicles rush to transport the injured. The governor emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging further details to emerge as the probe continues.

Inside the Fake Asylum Industry The Deception Behind Asylum Claims Asylum applicants and their consultants employ fabricated documents and staged scenarios to support their misleading assertions. Techniques range from creating counterfeit news platforms to orchestrating fake demonstrations and fabricating personal identities, such as claiming to be atheists or homosexual individuals. These methods are part of a coordinated effort to mislead immigration authorities, as revealed during the first phase of an investigative series exploring the UK’s immigration framework. During a covert operation in early April, an undercover reporter was trained in the process of submitting false asylum applications at a London-based office near Mile End Road. Posing as a Bangladeshi student who had recently left university, he expressed interest in asylum as a means to remain in the country. Zahid Hasan Akhand, introduced as a barrister, guided him through the options, emphasizing how to manipulate the Home Office with deceptive narratives. The Role of Legal Advisers Akhand outlined three potential pathways for asylum: persecution due to sexual orientation, religious convictions, or political beliefs. While he would manage the legal formalities, the undercover reporter was expected to choose a fabricated identity—whether as a non-religious individual, a homosexual person, or a political dissident. Each claim required significant preparation, including the creation of supporting evidence. “No system exists to verify if someone is truly an atheist or not,” Akhand stated. “You simply declare it, and that becomes your justification.” He added, “For gay cases, it’s private, but politics and atheism are public, making them harder to substantiate.” The cost of a legal fee was £1,500, covering preparation for interviews and mock sessions. However, additional expenses were necessary for generating credible evidence. For instance, if the reporter aimed to present himself as an atheist, he would need to produce social media content criticizing Islam or the Prophet Muhammad. “Religious clerics will then make threatening comments, giving the illusion of persecution,” Akhand explained. To bolster claims, the undercover reporter would also be introduced to online platforms and magazines that publish articles for a fee, further reinforcing the fabricated story. Akhand recommended using AI tools like ChatGPT to draft such content. Additionally, attending events for former Muslims and participating in live video discussions were suggested to add authenticity. Strategies for Success Akhand claimed that the political route was more complex, requiring a legal argument against the applicant’s home country. In contrast, the gay claim was simpler, as past histories were less scrutinized. “Most people in these groups aren’t actually gay,” he noted, suggesting the undercover reporter could rely on fake partners to provide letters of support. “If you follow the process and arrange the evidence correctly, everyone succeeds,” Akhand asserted. “God willing, the case will hold up.” He instructed the reporter to first decide between atheism or homosexuality as the basis for the claim, then “I will draw you a full outline.” Despite his qualifications as a barrister since 2022, Akhand does not possess a practicing license, raising questions about the legitimacy of his role in the scheme. The investigation highlights how these tactics are used to exploit the asylum process, creating a system where fabricated identities and evidence can secure residency for migrants who may not meet the genuine criteria.

Google to Penalize Websites Using Back Button Hijacking Tactics Google has announced an expansion of its policies targeting websites that employ “back button hijacking” to keep users engaged. This practice involves manipulating a browser’s functionality so the back button no longer directs users to the previous page, often trapping them on the site or displaying unexpected advertisements. In a recent blog post, the tech giant, which develops the Chrome browser, highlighted a growing trend of such behaviors and outlined its plan to address them. Starting on 15 June, websites persistently using back button hijacking will be classified as a “malicious practice.” This classification may lead to reduced rankings or removal from Google Search results. The company emphasized that the tactic disrupts user navigation, causes frustration, and diminishes trust in unfamiliar sites. “Users feel manipulated, which makes them hesitant to explore new websites,” Google stated in its post. “Back button hijacking interferes with browser functionality, breaks the expected user journey, and results in user frustration,” Google explained. “People report feeling manipulated and eventually less willing to visit unfamiliar sites.” The company will penalize sites that insert “manipulative” pages into a user’s browsing history, preventing them from returning to the prior page. Site operators are urged to review their technical setups to avoid disrupting navigation. Those affected by penalties can request a reconsideration if they resolve the issue. Adam Thompson, director of digital at BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, remarked to the BBC: “Practices like back button hijacking undermine the basic user experience and break the expectations people have of how the web should work, so it’s understandable that Google views this as a harmful behavior and is taking action.” Google advised website owners to ensure their implementations do not interfere with users’ ability to navigate their browser history. The move aims to enhance transparency and improve user trust across the internet. For more insights into global tech trends, sign up for the Tech Decoded newsletter. International readers can join here.

Trump Highlights Flexibility in UK Trade Agreement US President’s Remarks on Relations with UK and Upcoming Royal Visit US President Donald Trump emphasized that the trade pact between America and the United Kingdom remains open to revision, stating it “can always be changed.” During a Wednesday interview with Sky News, he defended the agreement, noting it was “better than I had to” accept. The discussion came amid ongoing tensions in their diplomatic ties, particularly over the Middle East. “We gave them a good trade deal, better than I had to,” Trump remarked, addressing the state of the unique bond between the nations. When pressed about its current status, he quipped, “With who?” before clarifying, “It’s the relationship where when we asked them for help, they were not there. When we needed them, they were not there. When we didn’t need them, they were not there. And they still aren’t there.” Trump’s comments reflected his frustration with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, whom he has criticized for his stance on the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Starmer’s decision to withhold support for military action against Iran in late February sparked repeated jabs from the president, including a recent comparison to historical figures. “He’s no Winston Churchill,” Trump said, highlighting his view of Starmer’s leadership as lacking the resolve of past leaders. The UK’s trade deal with Trump, finalized in May of last year, marked a significant milestone as the first agreement under his administration. It involved reducing import tariffs on goods like cars, aluminium, and steel. However, recent weeks have seen friction between the leaders, especially over Middle Eastern policies. Trump also took aim at Starmer’s government, calling its immigration and energy strategies “insane” during an earlier exchange. Despite these criticisms, Trump asserted that the state visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla to the US would not be overshadowed by the strained relationship. “I’ve known the King for a long time, and he’s not involved in that process,” he noted. When asked about his anticipation for the royal event, he responded, “Just being with him. I’ve known him for a long time. He’s wonderful.” While acknowledging that the relationship had improved, Trump described it as “sad” overall, underscoring his belief that the trade deal could be adjusted as needed. The upcoming royal visit remains a focal point for him, signaling a desire to maintain positive engagement despite recent disagreements.

Magyar Engages with Hungarian President Amid Political Shift Péter Magyar, the figure who ousted Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power, is meeting Hungary’s president to accelerate the transfer of authority following a dominant electoral win on Sunday. President Tamás Sulyok, who has resisted Magyar’s call to resign, is anticipated to propose him as the next prime minister. Magyar has insisted on assuming office by early May, marking his first public appearances on state radio and television in 18 months on Wednesday, where he outlined his goal to halt news broadcasts he deems propaganda. Magyar’s Media Criticism and Propaganda Claims Magyar accused Orbán’s allies of controlling 70-80% of the media, spreading 300 daily falsehoods, and denying his party visibility on state television. This changed on Wednesday, beginning with a half-hour slot on Kossuth radio and followed by a segment on M1 TV. In these appearances, he reaffirmed his plan to suspend coverage and establish a new broadcasting authority. “Every Hungarian deserves a public service media that broadcasts the truth,” he stated on Kossuth radio, emphasizing his motive was to restore factual reporting, not personal vendetta. “I think the new man’s going to do a good job,” Donald Trump told ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl, despite previously urging Hungarians to vote for Orbán. The U.S. president called Magyar a “good man” after his role in supporting Orbán’s campaign. EU Funding and Orbán’s Resilience Hungary’s economy has struggled for years, and Magyar discussed EU funding freezes with Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president. Billions in aid were halted over concerns about rule of law, with Magyar aiming to revive the funds. An estimated €17bn has been suspended, while an additional €16bn in defense loans awaits approval. Meanwhile, Orbán remains a caretaker prime minister, having secured his position despite the election outcome. He has remained quiet, save for a Facebook post: “The work begins. Let’s reorganise ourselves and keep fighting for the Hungarian people!” Uncertainty Over Veto and Transition EU leaders are pressuring Hungary to lift Orbán’s veto on €90bn in Ukraine aid, imposed weeks before the election. Magyar dismissed the veto as irrelevant, noting Hungary was among three nations that opted out last December. However, the method of removing the block and Orbán’s involvement remain unclear. His party, Fidesz, was defeated by Magyar’s Tisza movement, which gained a two-thirds parliamentary majority through widespread public backing.

Don’t feel like exercising? Maybe it’s the wrong time of day for you Researchers suggest that aligning physical activity with your personal circadian rhythm could enhance overall health benefits, particularly for those with heightened cardiovascular risks. According to a study featured in Open Heart, individuals who exercise during their most alert hours—morning for early risers and evening for night owls—experience notable improvements in sleep, blood pressure, and metabolic health. The investigation involved 134 adults aged 40 to 50 from Pakistan, none of whom were exceptionally fit but had at least one heart-related risk factor, such as hypertension or obesity. Participants engaged in 40-minute treadmill sessions, five times weekly over a three-month period. Their schedules were divided into two groups: 70 who identified as morning-oriented and 64 as evening-oriented, based on survey responses. Those who matched their workouts to their natural body clock demonstrated more substantial gains in key health indicators compared to those who exercised at conflicting times. This includes better control of blood pressure, enhanced aerobic capacity, and improved metabolic markers. The researchers explain that internal rhythms influence energy levels and hormone fluctuations throughout the day, which can affect both performance and consistency in exercise routines. Expert Insights on Timing and Routine “People are increasingly prioritizing health, which allows for more flexible training times,” says Hugh Hanley, head of personal training at PureGym. He notes that while Monday and Tuesday evenings remain popular for gym sessions, there’s a growing trend toward spreading out exercise hours across the week. Consistency is emphasized as crucial for maintaining fitness. Hanley recommends setting manageable, incremental goals rather than overambitious ones. He also highlights a surge in strength training across all age groups, suggesting it’s becoming a more widely adopted approach to physical activity. Dr. Rajiv Sankaranarayanan, affiliated with the British Cardiovascular Society, supports the findings but calls for further research to validate the benefits. Dr. Nina Rzechorzek, a specialist in circadian rhythms at the University of Cambridge, adds that while timing matters, regular exercise remains essential. The NHS advocates for a balanced regimen, including strength activities at least twice weekly and vigorous cardio for 75 minutes. Strength Training for Heart Health Strength exercises like wall squats and planks are highlighted as effective for reducing blood pressure. These isometric activities build muscle without requiring full joint movement. Wall squats involve positioning the back against a wall and lowering the body into a seated posture until the thighs are parallel to the ground. Planks require holding a position akin to a push-up, targeting core muscles alongside the back, shoulders, arms, and glutes.

Oklahoma School Principal Tackles Active Shooter CCTV footage captures a critical moment at Pauls Valley High School as a principal confronts an active shooter. Victor Hawkins, a former student, entered the school on 7 April and opened fire. Principal Kirk Moore charges toward the assailant, successfully disarming him before another staff member intervenes. Moore sustained a leg injury during the encounter and was discharged from the hospital. Hawkins was apprehended on-site and charged with multiple offenses, including two counts of pointing a firearm and one of attempted homicide. Artemis II Crew Sets New Lunar Record The Artemis II astronauts, aboard the Orion spacecraft, have surpassed previous milestones in space exploration. Their nine-day journey placed them farther from Earth than any humans in history, breaking a record of 248,655 miles (400,171km) set by the Apollo 13 crew in 1970. Christina Koch, an astronaut on the mission, shared a rare update: “It is so great to hear from Earth again.” The crew, currently on their third day orbiting the Moon’s far side, has not yet landed but is preparing for future missions. Commander Reid Wiseman’s wife passed away from cancer in 2020 at age 46. Other Recent Developments In Tampa, a homeowner discovered a nine-foot alligator in their pool area, prompting police to remove the animal. Meanwhile, the annual Great Marshmallow Drop saw over 15,000 fluffy treats dropped from a helicopter as children raced to collect them. The Canadian prime minister joined the Ottawa Charge team during a bilateral visit with the Finnish president, while Jeremy Hansen became the first Canadian astronaut to venture into deep space as part of Artemis II. US Lunar Ambitions and Mission Milestones Following the successful launch of NASA’s first crewed Moon mission in 50 years, the Orion spacecraft has been tested for maneuvers and orbital adjustments. The mission’s crew, including Hansen and Koch, will likely splash down on Saturday. A commercial flight witnessed passengers getting an up-close view of the launch from just three miles away. The United States aims to establish its first lunar landing by 2028, with Artemis II serving as a key step toward that goal.

Australia’s Richest Person Must Share Part of Her Mining Fortunes, Court Rules Legal Decision Affects Rinehart’s Inherited Empire In a landmark legal decision, Gina Rinehart, Australia’s wealthiest individual, has been ordered to share a portion of her mining profits with her heirs and children. Her empire, valued at an estimated A$38 billion, was inherited from her father’s iron ore ventures in 1992. Rinehart later expanded her operations in the mineral-rich Pilbara region of Western Australia, building a legacy in the mining industry. The ruling came after more than 13 years of litigation, with a Supreme Court judge determining that Rinehart must allocate past and future royalties to her rival heirs. However, the mining rights at Hope Downs, one of Australia’s most profitable iron ore projects, remain under her control. The court’s decision highlights the complex ownership structure of the site, which is jointly operated by Rio Tinto and Hancock Prospecting. Dispute Over Agreement Between Hancock and Wright The case revolves around an agreement established by Lang Hancock and Peter Wright, who co-founded Hanwright to manage their shared interests in the WA mining sector. Wright’s children argued that Rinehart had violated this arrangement, claiming she owed them a share of royalties and mining rights from Hope Downs. During a 51-day trial in 2023, the court heard arguments that Rinehart had prioritized her own gains over the terms of the original partnership. “Wright Prospecting won half of its case, lost half of its case, and Hancock Prospecting… has won and lost half of its case,” said Justice Jennifer Smith, the presiding judge. Rinehart’s legal team contended that the transfer of mining rights out of a family trust was a necessary action to address concerns about her father’s business dealings. Her children, Bianca Rinehart and John Hancock, countered that the move was intended to exclude her father’s second wife and former housekeeper, Rose Porteous, from the family fortune. Partial Victory for Don Rhodes’ Family While Rinehart’s children’s claims over the mining rights were rejected, a separate claim by the family of late engineer Don Rhodes was partially granted. This added another layer to the dispute, as the court acknowledged some royalties from Hope Downs for the Rhodes family. Hancock Prospecting’s executive director, Jay Newby, welcomed the decision, stating it “confirmed the company’s ownership of Hope Downs” and “firmly rejected” the competing claims. A spokesman for Wright Prospecting also expressed satisfaction with the ruling, noting the decision “pleased to finally receive a result in our favour.” Despite the split verdict, the case underscores the enduring influence of Rinehart’s family legacy in Australia’s mining sector. Rinehart, known for her extensive philanthropy, is a major private donor to sports, charities, and conservative political parties in the country. The court’s judgment marks the culmination of a protracted legal battle over the distribution of wealth from her father’s pioneering ventures.

AA and BSM Driving Schools Ordered to Issue Refunds for Opaque Pricing Following a probe by the competition watchdog, the operators of AA and BSM driving schools are required to issue refunds to thousands of learners after failing to display the full cost of lessons during the online booking process. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has also levied a £4.2m penalty against Automobile Association Developments for violating consumer protection regulations. Over 80,000 customers of the AA and BSM driving schools will receive a total of £760,000 in refunds, with an average payout of approximately £9 per individual. A representative from the driving schools stated their disappointment with the investigation’s findings but confirmed full cooperation during the process. They remarked: “While the £3 booking fee was communicated to customers before purchase, it should have been clearly visible from the outset of the online booking experience. We promptly updated our website to highlight this fee and are now processing refunds for affected users.” Investigation Unveils Drip-Feeding of Costs The CMA’s inquiry revealed that between April and December of the previous year, customers were initially presented with lesson prices excluding a mandatory booking fee. This fee became apparent only at the checkout stage, after users had selected lesson types, set time slots, and input their personal information. This tactic, referred to as drip-pricing, is considered unlawful as it can mislead consumers into agreeing to a service based on a lower initial price, only to face additional charges later. “When a fee is compulsory, the law mandates that it must be visible at the start of the transaction—not added unexpectedly at the final stage,” stated Sarah Cardell, chief executive of the CMA. She further noted: “During periods of heightened cost awareness, such hidden fees can significantly impact consumer decisions.” In November, the watchdog initiated an investigation into eight businesses, including AA and BSM Driving Schools, uncovering practices that misled customers through incomplete pricing information during online bookings.

Chris Mason: Iran War Means Government’s Vicious Circles Tighten and Darken The UK government is now grappling with the financial fallout from the Iran war, as highlighted by the International Monetary Fund’s recent analysis. Simultaneously, voices like former NATO secretary general Lord Robertson are intensifying calls for increased defense spending, arguing that the conflict underscores the need for a more aggressive military posture. Yet, this push comes at a time when the economy remains under strain, complicating efforts to fund such initiatives. Rachel Reeves, the chancellor, expressed frustration in a recent interview with The Mirror , lamenting the US’s lack of a clear strategy in the war. “This is a war we did not start. It was a war we did not want. I feel very frustrated and angry that the US went into this without a clear exit plan, without a clear idea of what they were trying to achieve,” she said. Her exasperation is understandable, given the mounting pressures on the government. With the economy in a delicate state, the electorate has grown restless, creating a difficult environment for making tough financial decisions. The war in Iran, alongside ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, has intensified debates over how to allocate public resources. Lord Robertson criticized the Treasury, accusing “non-military experts” of “vandalism” for not aligning spending with security needs. This critique reflects broader concerns about defense budgeting. The Vicious Cycle Intensifies The interplay between economic challenges and defense demands has deepened the government’s dilemma. A struggling economy leads to public dissatisfaction, while the need for military readiness forces difficult trade-offs. As Reeves and other ministers sought to signal progress, the conflict disrupted this narrative, tightening the cycle of economic and political strain. Lord Robertson’s remarks also hit a nerve, as they echoed criticisms of the Ministry of Defence’s long-term planning. He argued that the “cold reality of today’s dangerous world” requires a shift from welfare spending to defense priorities. This sentiment aligns with growing calls to reevaluate the balance between social programs and military investment. Unanswered Questions Loom The long-awaited Defense Investment Plan, due in the autumn of last year, has yet to materialize. With winter passing and clocks changing again, the government still lacks a concrete roadmap. This delay highlights the challenges of navigating political, fiscal, and international pressures. As the plan finally emerges, questions about resource allocation will intensify. How can health, benefits, and defense budgets all rise when the tax burden is set to reach a historic high of 38% by 2031? These dilemmas will persist, shaping debates for years to come.