Global News Podcast

Israel orders attacks in Beirut suburbs

Israel has ordered attacks against Hezbollah in the southern suburbs of Beirut - prompting many residents to evacuate the Lebanese capital. Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said the military would strike what he called 'terrorist targets' in the area, in response to attacks on Israeli civilians and other violations of a US-brokered ceasefire. Also, Iran and the US launch renewed attacks in the Gulf, putting the ceasefire under strain. Moscow criticises France after it seizes a suspected Russian oil tanker in the Atlantic. And, are social media influencers and content creators becoming too intrusive? The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

Right-wing outsider wins Colombian election first round

Abelardo de la Espriella will face left-winger Ivan Cepeda in Colombian presidential run-off in three weeks. The two offer strikingly different visions of how to tackle Colombia's challenges, including violence and drug crime. Also: France and Germany have condemned Israel's deepest incursion into southern Lebanon in a quarter of a century. Berlin said it was a cause for serious concern, while Paris has called for an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council; the new pill that can double the survival rate for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, one of the world's deadliest forms of the disease; the mice plague that is wreaking havoc on rural Australian farms; and why people will now once again be able to take the 666 bus to Hel in Poland. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

The Global Story: World Cup 2026: The most political of all time?

Politics, power and money have always been part of international sporting competitions, and football (or soccer) is no exception. However, this year’s World Cup faces new challenges. The United States is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico, and its relationship with its neighbours has at times been rocky. Two countries at war with each other – the US and Iran – have never played in the same competition before. Some fans are anxious about travelling to games at a time of high tension. And the cost of attending the event has led some to ask whether this World Cup is really worth it. Mehreen Khan, economics editor of The Times of London and a lifelong fan of the sport, joins us to discuss what this World Cup could mean for a divided world. The Global Story brings clarity to politics, business and foreign policy in a time of connection and disruption. For more episodes, just search 'The Global Story' wherever you get your BBC Podcasts. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Executive producer: James Shield Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins Photo: FIFA World Cup on display in Toronto. Credit: Kevin Sousa/ Imagn Images

Fans rampage after Paris St-Germain win Champions League

Several hundred people have been detained by police in Paris after football fans went on the rampage when Paris St-Germain won the European Champions League. Vehicles and businesses were damaged, and several police officers were injured. It's the second year in a row that PSG have won the Champions League - but Arsenal didn't make it easy for them. Also: The first suspected case of Ebola outside Africa has been reported in Brazil. Colombians are preparing to vote in the first round of Presidential elections against a backdrop of political violence. The Oscar-winning editor of the original Star Wars film has died. And Scientists have discovered a new species of fungus, which they believe is helping the environment. The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health – we cover it all with expert analysis and insight. Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

The Happy Pod: The simple plastic sheet saving lives

Researchers say a simple sheet of plastic is helping to prevent women dying after childbirth. The drape measures blood loss, which allows doctors to provide faster treatment. It's been successful in Nigeria, and now the health professionals want it used across the globe. Plus, meet Joy and Diane who have been friends for 60 years. It all started with one letter when they were 12 years old and they have been pen pals ever since. Also, the fishing group helping people with breast cancer. The woman trying to save endangered Indian Skimmer water birds. The rare rainforest that is being restored in Northern Ireland over the next 100 years, and the homes in Australia which are being adapted to help people with ADHD. Our weekly collection of inspiring, uplifting and happy news from around the world. Presenter: Holly Gibbs. Music composed by Iona Hampson Picture credit: Gates Foundation/Nelson Owoicho