Oscars Countdown: Celebrities Arrive, Red Carpet Preparations Intensify As the Oscars ceremony kicks off, A-list stars such as Jessie Buckley, Michael B. Jordan, Timothee Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Emma Stone are making their way to the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood for the event. Sky News is providing live coverage from Los Angeles, with updates streaming in as the night unfolds. Sky News Team Ready for the Red Carpet The Sky News team is now en route to the venue, preparing for the day’s proceedings. The on-camera arts and entertainment correspondent, Katie Spencer, is undergoing professional styling at the hotel before heading to her assigned position. The team will split up to monitor arrivals and later attend the Elton John afterparty. Oscars Transition to YouTube: A New Era Begins in 2029 Starting in 2029, the Oscars will shift from ABC to YouTube as part of a new partnership. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has secured exclusive global rights for the platform, which will broadcast the ceremony and related events like the Governors Ball. This change marks the first major shift in the event’s history, with YouTube set to reach over two billion users worldwide. Bill Kramer, Academy chief executive, and Lynette Howell Taylor, president, emphasized the significance of the deal: “We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round academy programming.” A Legacy on ABC: The Oscars’ Longstanding Home ABC has been the primary broadcaster of the Oscars since 1961, save for a brief period from 1971 to 1975 when NBC took over. The network’s final exclusive broadcast will coincide with the 100th anniversary of the event, offering a nostalgic send-off before the transition. For the 2023 ceremony, ABC recorded 19.7 million viewers, a five-year peak but still far below the 57 million audience in 1998. The shift to YouTube signals a bold move toward digital expansion, aligning with evolving viewer habits. Behind the Glamour: Stylists Prepare A-Listers At the hotel, hair stylist Melissa and make-up artist Naisha are finalizing looks for attendees. Melissa, who has worked with celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Ariana Grande, is handling five clients today, with Katie Spencer as her first. “I consult about their outfits and desired style, then we collaborate on the final image,” Melissa explains. “For Katie, we’re going old-school Hollywood with waves and a classic, timeless vibe.” Naisha, a seasoned make-up artist with nearly a decade of experience, shares: “I love red carpet looks, but I prefer brown and smoky eyes for Katie. Black feels too heavy, and it’s still daylight out.” The pair notes that awards weekends often involve long hours, with multiple clients needing attention throughout the event. Gold Derby Predicts a Surprising Oscar Night Gold Derby, a long-standing authority in entertainment forecasting, highlights this year’s unpredictability. Editor-in-chief Debra Birnbaum admits: “Usually, by this point, the race feels settled. But this year is different—anything could happen.” With the awards season proving unusually competitive, Birnbaum expresses confidence in Jessie Buckley’s chances: “I feel reasonably certain about Buckley, but the entire landscape is up for grabs.” Gold Derby’s analysis estimates Buckley’s likelihood of winning at 96.97%, underscoring her strong position among acting nominees. The event promises to be a pivotal moment in cinematic recognition.
All six crew members killed in US refuelling plane crash in Iraq
All six crew members killed in US refuelling plane crash in Iraq A US military refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq, resulting in the deaths of all six crew members, according to officials. The incident occurred around 2pm on 12 March, as reported by US Central Command (CENTCOM), which manages operations in the Middle East. “The crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire,” CENTCOM stated, clarifying an earlier report that included another aircraft which landed safely. A US official, who wished to remain anonymous, shared with Reuters that the second plane involved was also a KC-135 refuelling model. The circumstances of the crash are currently under review by authorities. An umbrella group of Iranian proxies, known as the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, claimed responsibility for the downing of the plane on Thursday. This group has previously issued false claims regarding attacks during the Iran-Iraq War. The KC-135, a Boeing-built aircraft from the 1950s and early 1960s, has been a staple of US military operations for over six decades. It is used to support mid-air refueling, enabling missions to continue without landing. Since the US-Israeli strikes on Iran began on 28 February, seven US troops have lost their lives—13 in total when the crew of the crashed plane is included. The conflict has claimed more than 2,000 casualties, with nearly 700 in Lebanon. Israel has intensified its strikes against Iran-backed Hezbollah, targeting Beirut overnight. Read more from Sky News: Oil tankers to be escorted through Strait of Hormuz What we know about the deadly Iran school strike Listen to The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim every Wednesday
Old Dominion shooting is being investigated as act of terrorism, FBI director says
Old Dominion University Shooting Classified as Potential Terrorist Act by FBI Federal investigators have classified the fatal shooting at Old Dominion University on Thursday as a possible act of terrorism, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. The assailant, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 36, of Sterling, Virginia, was also killed during the incident. Two senior law enforcement officials confirmed the details to NBC News, revealing Jalloh’s history of attempting to support ISIS. The FBI director highlighted that “a group of brave students who stepped in and subdued” the gunman likely prevented more casualties. Shooter’s Background and Previous Conviction Jalloh, a former member of the Army National Guard, was accused of targeting an ROTC class during the attack. ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton stated that two victims were hospitalized and in stable condition, while a third individual sought medical attention independently. “One of the victims is deceased,” Shelton noted, adding efforts to notify the family. The identities of the injured remain undisclosed. Incident Timeline and Campus Response The university issued an emergency alert at 10:48 a.m. about an active threat in Constant Hall. By 11:30 a.m., the incident was described as an “active shooter situation,” with the suspect “neutralized.” Officials confirmed no further danger on campus but urged people to avoid the area. Classes were suspended on the main campus, and the university planned to close Friday. Previous Criminal Case and Motive Law enforcement details from a 2016 case indicate Jalloh aimed to “murder US military personnel” as part of a plot linked to ISIS. He traveled to North Carolina to purchase an AK-47, which was denied, and later acquired an AR-15 in July 2016. That month, he was arrested after attempting to fund individuals joining the Islamic State. Jalloh pleaded guilty to providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization and received an 11-year prison term, along with five years of supervised release. Federal Sentencing and Release Bureau of Prison records show Jalloh was released in 2024, having served 85% of his sentence. In a 2017 sentencing memo, prosecutors cited his actions of sending gift card codes to an undercover FBI agent he believed was an ISIS operative. The government had sought a 20-year sentence, but the defense emphasized Jalloh’s “gullibility, impressionability, and passivity” during his plea. At his 2017 hearing, he told the judge, “This entire crime is not who I am, it’s not who I plan to be, and it’s not who I have been.” Community and Institutional Reactions Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger expressed condolences, stating she was “praying for the victims, their families, and every Virginian touched by this terrifying shooting.” She encouraged people to follow guidance from university and emergency officials. Norfolk Public Schools noted that nearly all high school students from the district were on ODU’s campus for a tour when the shooting occurred. A spokesperson assured that “all students and staff members are secure.” University President Brian O. Hemphill praised the quick response of law enforcement, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to campus safety. “We take this responsibility very seriously and remain vigilant,” he said. Authorities’ Role and Regional Response Local Norfolk police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Washington field division were involved in managing the situation. The university’s emergency alerts and subsequent actions, including canceling classes and closing the campus, underscored the immediate impact of the incident. While the motive remains under investigation, the connection to Jalloh’s prior terrorist ties has raised concerns about the event’s classification.
What is the ‘Deeply read’ list?
What is the ‘Deeply read’ list? For years, The Guardian has monitored how long readers engage with our journalism. While click counts provide insight into an article’s popularity, they don’t always reflect its depth or the time spent on it. To better measure quality, we developed a new approach that evaluates reader attention relative to content length. This method highlights stories that resonate more profoundly with audiences, even if they aren’t the most widely clicked. Traditionally, platforms like The Guardian have displayed top-performing articles through “Most viewed” lists. However, these often prioritize mainstream topics over niche or thought-provoking pieces. The “Deeply read” list aims to address this by showcasing content that readers linger on, regardless of its subject matter. It appears on regional home pages, tailored to reflect the interests of local communities. Our metric calculates attention time, comparing it to the article’s length. This allows for a broader range of stories—shorter or longer, varied in format—to be included. The result is a list that emphasizes both depth and diversity, offering readers a richer selection of journalism. We hope this shift brings greater variety and meaningful engagement to your experience. Key Features of the List Unlike conventional lists, “Deeply read” prioritizes reader retention over sheer volume. It considers how long an article holds a reader’s focus, adjusting for length to ensure fairness. This approach surfaces stories that may not dominate click metrics but are valued for their substance and impact. By focusing on attention time, we can identify journalism that truly captures readers’ interest and holds their attention, even on less mainstream topics. The list is designed to highlight the breadth of storytelling, from in-depth analyses to concise insights. It’s a tool to help readers discover content that aligns with their curiosity and depth of reading. We believe this evolution better serves the diverse needs of our audience.
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‘Restoring control at borders not a betrayal of Labour values’, home secretary to say – as she sets out immigration shake-up
Labour’s Border Control Stance Reaffirmed by Home Secretary Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will assert that reinforcing border management aligns with Labour’s core principles, not contradicting them, as she unveils plans to overhaul the immigration framework. Speech to IPPR Highlights Policy Shift Speaking at a gathering for the left-leaning IPPR on Thursday, the minister will argue that Labour should maintain its current trajectory rather than moving further left, following a significant setback in the recent Gorton and Denton by-election. Sky News reports that a stringent approach to curbing unauthorized arrivals has led to nearly £400 million in reductions for asylum-related expenses, particularly targeting tourists exploiting the system. “Establishing clear boundaries at our borders is not a step away from Labour’s ideals—it’s a reflection of them. This is essential for any Labour administration to make progress,” Mahmood will state. Under the proposed measures, individuals recognized as refugees in the UK will undergo status assessments every 30 months, differing from the existing five-year period before eligibility for indefinite leave to remain. Those who breach immigration laws or work without authorization will face removal from government-funded housing and loss of financial aid, according to the revised guidelines. This shift replaces the EU-mandated obligation to provide support with a conditional system. Denmark’s Model Inspires Reforms Mahmood’s strategy draws from Denmark’s success, where a social democratic government reduced asylum applications to a 40-year low and streamlined the process for rejected cases. She will describe this as a model for a “balanced approach” that is both humane and regulated. “Far from being an ideological departure, these reforms embody Labour’s commitment to a fair and orderly system. We must strike a harmony between compassion and control,” she will emphasize. The minister also warns that unchecked migration fosters anxiety, leading to a narrowing of national identity and the rise of ethno-nationalist sentiments. “When citizens perceive a loss of sovereignty, their vision of the UK shrinks, and extremist voices gain traction,” she will argue. Green Party Policies Criticized as Unrealistic Labour’s leader will dismiss the Green Party’s open-border proposals as an impractical vision. “A candidate for top leadership should not be seen encouraging illegal crossings on French shores,” she will claim, highlighting the financial strain on taxpayers. “Polanski’s call for unrestricted migration places an unsustainable burden on public resources, offering a dream rather than a viable policy,” Mahmood will note. Additional changes include requiring nationals from Nicaragua and Saint Lucia to obtain visit visas before entering the UK, with the Home Office citing a 93% drop in asylum claims from Jordan, Colombia, and Trinidad and Tobago since visa requirements were introduced. These adjustments are expected to prevent over 6,000 asylum applications and save more than £370 million in associated costs since July 2024, according to official data. Watch Trevor Phillips’ exclusive dialogue with Shabana Mahmood during a Politics Hub special on Sky News at 7 pm on Thursday, March 5.
Georgia father Colin Gray found guilty in son’s alleged deadly school shooting
Georgia father Colin Gray found guilty in son’s alleged deadly school shooting On Tuesday, a Georgia jury made a significant decision by convicting Colin Gray, 55, in the aftermath of a school shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder. The father was held criminally liable for his son Colt Gray’s actions, which involved using an AR-15-style rifle from their home to fatally shoot two students and two teachers on September 4, 2024. This verdict marks a unique case where a parent faces legal consequences for their child’s violent act. Case Precedent and Parental Accountability Colin Gray’s conviction includes charges of second-degree murder and cruelty to children. Prosecutors argued that he failed to address his son’s behavioral indicators and allowed access to a high-capacity weapon. The trial echoed the 2021 Oxford High School shooting in Detroit, where James and Jennifer Crumbley were convicted of involuntary manslaughter for their son Ethan’s actions. Colt’s mother previously referenced this case when advocating for restricted gun access for her son, according to Barrow County District Attorney Brad Smith. “Smith emphasized that the conviction could serve as a catalyst for change. He noted that the mother had studied the Michigan case and requested her husband to remove the firearms. This step might have prevented the tragedy, and now we hope to push the needle further,” Smith stated. The jury deliberated for under two hours before returning a guilty verdict on all 27 counts. Colin Gray displayed little emotion as the verdicts were announced, later being handcuffed and escorted from the courtroom. Judge Nicholas Primm postponed sentencing to notify parties and allow for further proceedings. The maximum sentence for Gray could reach 243 years in prison. Defense attorneys left the courthouse without commenting on the case, while Colt Gray, who was 14 at the time, remains in custody with no trial date scheduled. Jurors were shown images of Colt’s bedroom, which featured a photo of Nikolas Cruz, the Florida shooter who killed 14 students and three staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018. The four victims in Georgia were Mason Schermerhorn, 14; Christian Angulo, 14; Richard Aspinwall, 39; and Cristina Irimie, 53. Colin Gray testified on his own behalf, describing his son’s experiences of bullying and occasional outbursts of anger. However, he insisted that he never viewed Colt as a threat to others. “I never imagined he would consider harming anyone at school,” the father explained to jurors. Senior Breaking News Reporter Dan Gallo is an NBC News field producer based in Atlanta. Aaron Gilchrist serves as a national correspondent for NBC News.
Officials identify the two victims killed in Austin bar shooting
Officials identify the two victims killed in Austin bar shooting Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis revealed at a Monday press briefing that Ryder Harrington and Savitha Shan were the individuals fatally wounded in a shooting that occurred early Sunday in downtown Austin. The incident, which also left 14 others wounded, transpired near a well-known beer garden. The perpetrator, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, was shot dead by responding officers shortly after the attack. Suspect’s background and motive Diagne, a 53-year-old Senegalese national and U.S. citizen, resided in Pflugerville, Texas. Sources indicated he had a history of mental illness, though no prior connection to law enforcement offices was noted. Davis noted the firearms used were legally purchased in San Antonio in 2017. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with authorities considering the possibility of terrorism. Family tributes and emotional impact “Ryder was the best mix of all the Harrington crew,” his brother Reed Harrington shared on Facebook, reflecting on the loss. “It is unfair, to say the least, that my little brother was only given 19 years on this earth.” Reed expressed that the tragedy has left him feeling unmoored, vowing to rely on the support of others as he navigates the grief. “Nothing would be enough to express how special you are to me,” said Reagan Harrington, Ryder’s sister, in an Instagram post. “I’m not sure how we’re meant to work through this — all I can think about is seeing you again.” Ryan Harrington, another sibling, also posted on Instagram, lamenting, “I’m gonna miss my brother.” Fraternity honors and community support Ryder Harrington was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity, which confirmed his death and announced plans for a candlelight vigil on Monday. The chapter’s Instagram statement highlighted his “rare ability to truly enjoy life, to make people laugh, and to make ordinary days unforgettable.” A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist his family. Shooting details and injuries The attack occurred outside Buford’s, a popular downtown Austin beer garden. Emergency medical services chief Robert Luckritz reported that three of the 14 injured were in critical condition. Davis announced on Monday that one of these patients will be removed from life support later in the day, while the other two remain in critical care. Suspect’s immigration history A Homeland Security official disclosed that Diagne entered the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa on March 13, 2000, and later became a lawful permanent resident through marriage to a U.S. citizen. Officials emphasized the investigation is in its early stages, with no evidence linking him to the state or any organized group.
Inside London’s Albanian ‘Mafia’ who bring fear to community dubbed ‘Little Tirana’
Inside London’s Albanian ‘Mafia’ who bring fear to community dubbed ‘Little Tirana’ Beneath the tranquil facade of a northern London neighborhood, a clandestine network of Albanian criminals is thriving. This area, nestled around the Southgate London Underground station, has become a hub for illicit activities including protection rackets, people smuggling, and drug trafficking, according to sources. The once-vibrant and prosperous suburb, situated along the Piccadilly line, has transformed into a stronghold for the Albanian criminal enterprise. Locals refer to the surrounding district as ‘Little Tirana’—a nod to the capital of Albania—due to the pervasive influence of the gang. Residents describe an atmosphere of unease, where the shadow of violence looms large. Businesses in the area are increasingly subjected to demands for protection fees or threats of takeover. Some have been forced to surrender their premises, with shopkeepers expressing fear of retaliation. The criminal group operates discreetly, managing affairs from cafes and street corners, blending into the community while exerting control. “The Albanian gangs have a grip on the community and there is a lot of fear about being taken out [killed]. They have taken over some of the businesses and have threatened others.” A notable incident highlighting the group’s reach occurred in 2019, when an Albanian drug lord, Flamur Beqiri, was shot dead by a rival during a Christmas Eve attack in Battersea. His sister, Misse, gained fame as a cast member of The Real Housewives of Cheshire. Beqiri’s murder underscored the network’s international scope and willingness to use extreme force. Despite their dominance, the gang’s operations lack the ostentation of luxury. They maintain a low profile, yet their influence is undeniable. A local shopkeeper recounted how the presence of Albanian criminals has altered the area’s dynamics. “I’ve been here for more than 20 years and we have never had any problems until the last couple of years. When the Albanian criminals moved in the whole atmosphere changed. They want to take all the businesses,” he said. Policing efforts have concentrated on Ashfield Parade, a location the gang considers its core territory. In 2023, Albanian people smuggler Arlin Leka was sentenced after being found guilty of orchestrating illegal migrant trafficking. Additional raids have been conducted on other properties linked to gang activities, with ongoing concerns raised about their expanding dominance. Meanwhile, the Turkish ‘Mafia’ maintains control in Tottenham and Wood Green, further north. However, the Albanian network has established itself as the dominant force in Southgate and Cockfosters. The two groups rarely confront each other, with Turks apprehensive of the Albanians’ penchant for unrelenting violence. Metrounderstands that the Albanian mob’s growing presence is reshaping the local landscape. Cypriot businesses, which have operated for generations, are now facing pressure to leave. The community’s sense of security has eroded, with many feeling powerless against the criminal takeover. Local reports emphasize the need for stronger intervention. “We know who they are and where they operate out of. It has been reported to the police that they need to get a grip of this. It’s an international crime network which is colonising the area around Southgate station and is spreading up the high street,” a source added.
Terrifying ‘security breach’ spotted in Trump’s Situation Room as Ice Maiden Susie Wiles faces blowback
Terrifying ‘security breach’ spotted in Trump’s Situation Room as Ice Maiden Susie Wiles faces blowback The White House’s Response Photos from Trump’s improvised Situation Room at Mar-a-Lago were shared by the White House on Saturday morning, capturing the President as he directed the launch of ‘Operation Epic Fury.’ This mission led to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Among the images, one highlighted Susie Wiles, Trump’s chief of staff, speaking with the President while wearing a personal electronic wrist device. Initially, some speculated it was an Apple Watch, but further analysis confirmed it as a WHOOP fitness tracker. Public Reaction and Concerns Critics raised questions about the device’s presence in the high-security environment, arguing that Bluetooth-enabled fitness trackers could be compromised for surveillance. Others pointed out the potential for remote hacking during the sensitive operation. “I love my @WHOOP (and immediately recognized it in the photo of Susie Wiles)” CNN’s Brian Stelter shared this sentiment online, sparking renewed debate over the security of wearable technology in such settings. Defenses and Clarifications WHOOP CEO Will Ahmed addressed the controversy, stating the device lacks microphone, GPS, or cellular capabilities. He emphasized its inclusion on the National Security Agency’s approved list for personal electronics. The White House echoed this, asserting that WHOOP devices are “secure by design” and deemed safe for use during classified briefings. Security Doubts and Context While the NSA sanctions WHOOP for limited secure applications, some intelligence agencies reportedly ban all Bluetooth-enabled wearables in the Situation Room. A user on X noted that the Mar-a-Lago setup lacked walls, leaving it vulnerable to eavesdropping. Others criticized the choice of launching the attack from a Palm Beach club rather than a secure White House location, questioning the readiness of the national security team. Retaliatory Strikes and Casualties Iran has retaliated with missile strikes across the Middle East, targeting the Fifth Fleet service center in Bahrain and claiming hits on bases in Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait. The Ayatollah’s palace was also damaged by US-Israeli missiles. The exact number of civilian casualties from these strikes remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Iran is deploying kamikaze drones to attack residential areas and airports in the region. CENTOM reported Sunday that three US troops have been confirmed killed in the operation, though broader impacts are still under evaluation.
