experts

One week ago, several outlets reported on a consequential development in the disciplinary case regarding the alleged sexual misconduct by the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, Karim Khan. In a confidential report addressed to the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the judicial experts tasked with assessing the United Nations probe’s factual findings unanimously concluded that no misconduct or breach of duty by Khan could be established under the legal framework.

It is now for the 21 ICC states represented on the bureau to decide whether to uphold or depart from the panel’s legal conclusion. If the bureau were to find misconduct of a less serious nature, it could impose sanctions on Khan. A finding of serious misconduct would lead to a plenary ASP vote on the possible removal.

A minority of bureau members have reportedly been pushing for the judicial experts’ report to be set aside and for the bureau to substitute its own conclusions for those of the panel. This would be a precarious step. We are concerned that it would undermine the quality of subsequent decisions in Khan’s case and seriously damage the integrity of the ICC’s governance framework. It would also raise serious questions about the state parties’ credibility and their commitment to the rule of law in governing the court.

This position is consistent with our unequivocal belief that there must be zero tolerance for sexual and other forms of workplace abuse in any organisation — public or private — especially those dedicated to international justice and the fight against impunity for the most serious crimes, and that accountability for any such abuse is non-negotiable.

At the same time, particularly in politically sensitive cases, strict adherence to due process, the highest standards of decision-making, and the rule of law is of paramount importance to prevent ill-founded decisions, political interference, and abuse of power. These convictions are not in tension. For us, the ends do not justify the means.

It is true that the bureau is not legally bound by the panel’s conclusions: the experts performed an advisory function, and their report is not formally binding. Their mandate was to assist the bureau in reaching a credible and well-founded decision on the legal assessment of the factual findings reached in the UN investigative report.

The question before the panel was strictly legal. It was to give a legal characterisation of facts established by UN investigators. Factual findings are distinct from the allegations or the evidence on which they are based, and, as far as can be judged from media reports, the panel did not cross that line.

Diplomats should refrain from assuming the role of judicial experts at this stage, particularly now that such judicial expert advice has been issued. As a political body, the bureau initially recognised that it was not well-placed to make this legal determination on its own — understandably so, given the risks of politicisation of the process and the diminished credibility of any outcome. It mandated a nonpolitical, quasi-judicial body — a panel of judicial experts with relevant subject-matter expertise and experience — to carry out that assessment. This was a sound decision.

The integrity of the court and of the Rome Statute system is at stake as never before. Given the seriousness and complexity of this matter, it was appropriate that the legal assessment be entrusted to an independent and impartial body of judicial experts. In politically charged contexts, such bodies are best placed to assist political decision-makers in reaching conclusions that are both well-founded and credible – and, as much as possible, insulated from political influence.

This is precisely what the bureau set out to achieve. It developed a novel procedure to be applied to this case and itself chose and appointed the judicial experts. As revealed by The New York Times, the panel was composed of three highly regarded senior judges with impeccable track records and experience serving on the highest national and international courts. Tasked with the legal analysis of the UN investigators’ factual findings, it did the job it was meant to do – where such findings had been made.

But now that the process has run its course and the panel has reached its conclusions after three months of intensive work, some states and rights advocates are ready to ignore them because they disagree with the result. Why pursue a quasi-judicial process in the first place if its outcome can so readily be dismissed?

We are convinced that, given the current stage and the nature of the process that was adopted to get there, the panel’s report should be accorded due deference by the bureau and taken seriously, not dismissed lightly, by ICC states. Should states substitute their own conclusions, however, the outcome would be even more problematic than if no panel had been established in the first place.

Disregarding the report will create the impression that the panel was only needed to assist states in reaching one specific conclusion. Can the impression be avoided then that the judicial expert panel’s report has lost all value in the eyes of assembly officials and bureau states, who had devised and supported this process, once its conclusions proved unwelcome? The spectre of a show trial looms large.

Furthermore, if states disagree with the panel, one must ask: based on what factual findings and based on whose legal analysis? The bureau would need a very solid foundation to depart from the judicial experts’ conclusions. But it can realistically neither conduct a follow-up investigation to collect additional evidence and analysis of facts to resolve the remaining uncertainties, nor engage in their legal consideration de novo.

In our view, dismissing the judicial expert report and substituting the bureau’s own judgement would be deleterious to the rule of law, due process, and the integrity of the legal determination as to the existence or otherwise of misconduct by Prosecutor Khan. It would also undermine the authority of the judicial panel mechanism now codified in the ICC rules for any such situations in the future.

Political decision-making should not be allowed to replace and displace a legal assessment carried out in accordance with the highest standards of judicial competence, independence and impartiality, which the political body itself insisted on upholding.

The implication that legal form was used merely as a cover for arbitrary power would be hard to escape. We fear that this would plunge the ICC system deeper into an already existing crisis, without offering the relief some may hope for. The ICC states know full well that this is a cost they cannot afford, particularly at this juncture.

The views expressed in this article are the authors’ own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.

President Donald Trump (R) makes remarks as he stands with Prime Minster Sanae Takaichi of Japan during a dinner in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Earlier in the day, the President and Takeuchi exchanged views on Iran, energy, and issues in the Indo-Pacific region. Photo by Aaron Schwartz/UPI | License Photo

March 22 (Asia Today) — South Korea should maintain “strategic ambiguity” in responding to U.S. pressure over the Middle East crisis, experts said, as tensions surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz intensify.

The call comes after Donald Trump urged allies including South Korea, Japan and European partners to play a greater role following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, raising concerns in Seoul about balancing its alliance with Washington and broader diplomatic interests.

South Korean officials said they are taking a cautious approach and have not received formal requests from the United States regarding potential military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz.

The government is focusing on assessing the intent behind Trump’s remarks while weighing the risks of deeper involvement in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route, has long been vulnerable to disruption. Analysts say any effort to secure maritime traffic would likely require multinational coordination rather than unilateral action.

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven nations recently condemned Iran’s attacks on civilian infrastructure and said they are prepared to take steps to support global energy supplies, though the timing of any direct action remains unclear.

A Foreign Ministry official said stability in Middle Eastern shipping lanes is vital for South Korea and other major economies, noting that ensuring safe passage is a challenge that cannot be addressed by a single country.

Experts pointed to Japan’s approach under Sanae Takaichi as a potential model. Tokyo has prioritized its alliance with the United States while limiting direct military involvement, balancing energy security, international law and domestic public opinion.

Lee Ki-tae, a senior researcher at the Sejong Institute, said South Korea should similarly avoid automatic military intervention and instead preserve flexibility.

“Maintaining strategic ambiguity allows South Korea to uphold its alliance while avoiding immediate alignment with any one side,” he said.

Park Won-gon, a professor at Ewha Womans University, said logistical and political constraints also support a cautious stance. He noted that deploying naval forces would require parliamentary approval, a process that could take about two months.

He added that evolving and sometimes inconsistent messaging from Washington further underscores the need for careful deliberation.

— Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.

Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260323010006558

THE Sun’s travel team are sharing the holiday destinations they’ll be heading to this summer to help you find the best deals to get away for less.

To do this, we have rounded up our absolute favourite spots for summer 2026, including family-friendly holiday parks, sunny Spanish resorts and the very best in cruises.

Whether you’re hunting for a cheap UK break or a dreamy island retreat, we’ve got your travel inspiration for 2026 sorted.

From Skegness to Seoul, here’s where the Sun Travel team recommend – and are actually heading to – as the weather hots up.

Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel – Digital

UK holiday – Butlin’s, Skegness

I am ashamed to say that in my nine years as a travel editor at The Sun, I’ve not yet made it to Butlin’s.

Well, not after this summer. I’m heading to their Skegness resort with a school mum and our kids, in the seaside holiday park’s 90th birthday year.

I’m not sure who is more excited – the adults or the kids.

My parents were camping-in-France-type people, so I never did any of the UK holiday parks growing up.

But now I have a kid of my own, the idea of free fairground rides, water slides and TV-quality evening entertainment is deeply appealing.  

I’m particularly looking forward to the Masked Singer Live, and my son is very excited about the Maximum Pro Wrestling.

Plus, we’ve got the all-inclusive drinks package, which means we can sip on a cold wine and natter while the children tire themselves out with all the activities.

Given we’ve got the dining package too, it’ll be interesting to see quite how much we can see, do and eat in a 3-night break, without spending any extra money.

They’ve got 3-night breaks in May half term from £188 and the school summer holidays from £207.

Medium haul break – Bodrum, Turkey

I’ve managed to visit a new part of Turkey each year since Covid ended, ranging from Istanbul and Izmir to the Turquoise Coast, and this year I’m ticking Bodrum off the list.

Turkey is one of my favourite countries to visit with my seven-year-old.

For a start, the food is so kid-friendly that eating out is a dream. Halloumi, olives, flatbreads, hummus, baklava… what’s not to love?

Plus, they’ve really nailed the all-inclusive hotel experience.

This year, we’re staying at the Titanic Luxury Collection Bodrum – a five-star property on the Pina Peninsula with 11 restaurants and its own white-sand beach.

Week-long, all-inclusive stays at this five-star resort start from £910pp with On the Beach.

Short haul break – Eurocamp: Les Prairies De La Mer Resort, France

Kate Moss, Elton John, Beyonce and Leonardo DiCaprio all love St Tropez, and it’s about to become even better-known soon, as the next White Lotus TV show is being filmed there.

But just 15 minutes down the road is Les Prairies De La Mer Resort  – one of Eurocamp’s top holiday parks that they rate as five stars. 

But when we fancy a bit of the A-List lifestyle, it’s super easy and cheap to get to either St Tropez or St Maxime

Forget Club 55 and superyachts, here it’s all about the park’s own beachfront cafe, mini golf and the two pools.

Oh, and an early morning walk to the on-site supermarket for freshly baked croissants. 

But when we fancy a bit of the A-List lifestyle, it’s super easy and cheap to get to either St Tropez or St Maxime.

They’ve got 7-night breaks in May half term from £1,707 and school summer holidays from £2,349.

Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

British seaside – Suffolk, UK

As much as I love going abroad, sometimes you can’t beat a British summer.

I’ll be visiting Suffolk later this year to explore its seaside towns and hopefully enjoy some sunshine along the way too.

I’ll head to Aldeburgh first to see its colourful homes and stretching shingle beach.

I’ll try a Noon Tart too – it’s a local delicacy, essentially it’s a savoury pastry made from smoked haddock, smoked cheddar cheese, cream, eggs, and mustard in a flaky pastry.

Half an hour away from Aldeburgh is Framlingham Castle, which was Ed Sheeran’s inspiration for his song ‘Castle on the Hill’.

Neighbouring seaside towns include Thopeness and I might even stop by my favourite place along the Suffolk coast, Southwold.

I’ve been going to Southwold for years, playing games at the arcades, crabbing off the pier and popping into its independent shops along the high street.

I’ll be staying at The Brudenell Hotel, which sits on the seafront of Aldeburgh, and offers rooms from £137 per night.

Short haul sunshine – Menorca, Spain

Lots of Brits head to the Spanish islands during the summer – and I hope to be one of them, although I’m going to one that has fewer crowds.

The island of Menorca, next to the well-known Majorca, welcomes much fewer tourists each year, making it an ideal place to relax – it’s even been called “Ibiza’s chilled-out sister”.

It’s easy to navigate too, as it’s much smaller, so it has short airport transfers, and is generally cheaper.

I’ve got my eye on Cala Macarella, a beach on the south of the island with white cliffs and turquoise waters.

Another spot that I’ve been told about is Cova d’en Xoroi, which is a bar that’s built into caves on the cliffs.

During the day, it’s a chilled bar, and in the evening, it holds sunset sessions with live music.

To make it easier, the likes of TUI and Jet2 organise package holidays.

You can book a 7-night room-only break at Menorca’s Colina Village from £262.26pp with TUI.

English adventure – Jurassic Coast, UK

In my 28 years of living in the UK, I’ve never taken a stroll along the Jurassic Coast, which is why I intend to head there this summer for a weekend away (at least).

Chesil Beach near Weymouth is the longest in the UK, stretching for 18 miles from West Bay to the Isle of Portland.

And I hope to walk the beach and stop by The Cove House Inn on the north of the Isle of Portland, which was named as one of the best beachside boozers last year by Big 7 Travel.

Lots of visitors compliment the views from the pub, which sits on the promenade, and some have even spotted dolphins and whales in the water there too.

Of course, the famous Durdle Door is another stop high up on my list, as is Kimmeridge Bay.

Premier Inn’s Weymouth hotel offers spacious, comfy rooms from just £57 per night.

Lisa Minot – Head of Travel

Short haul success – Malaga, Spain

I’m heading to the southern Spanish gem of Malaga in early June for a long weekend.

The city ticks all the boxes when it comes to an easy-to-reach, reliably sunny destination that can combine a quick cultural hit with fabulous food and a captivating coastline. 

And travelling in early June, hopefully, will mean fewer crowds while still benefiting from warm sunshine.

I’ll be ticking off big hitters like the Picasso Museum and the 11th-century Alcazaba palace, but also on the agenda will be some serious relaxation.

I’m staying 20 minutes from the city centre at the Higueron Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, set between the Mediterranean and the Mijas mountains.

Its rooftop pool and terraces will be perfect for sunbathing and cocktail sipping, and there’s a spa and superb sports facilities for some proper me-time too.

The glamorous hotel offers breaks from £184 per night, but its budget-friendly little sister, the Hilton Garden Inn Malaga, also makes for a fantastic stay from £95 per night.

French fancy – Bormes Les Mimosas, Cote d’Azur

It will come as no surprise to those who know me that, yet again, my priority this summer will be spending time with family and friends at my own caravan in the South of France. 

I’ve visited Camp du Domaine in Bormes les Mimosas almost every year for the last 50 years, and this summer will be no different.

The site tumbles down pine-clad hills to its own gorgeous sandy beach, and days will be spent relaxing on those soft sands, swimming in the warm waters and cooking up a storm with the purchases bought in local markets, from fresh fish to ripe Provencale tomatoes and of course, the odd rose!

Set between Toulon and St Tropez, it’s a great site for those who have their own van or camper, but there are bungalows for rent too.

Another good bet nearby is the Eurocamp sites in Grimaldi and Frejus.

A basic pitch at Camp du Domaine starts from £28.50 per night, with options for one-bedroom bungalows starting from £60 per night. See campdudomaine.com.

Long haul leave – Seoul, South Korea

I’m making my first trip to the current global capital of cool, Seoul, as Virgin Atlantic launch new direct services.

With all things K-culture from the massive success of K-pop to the likes of Squid Game and BTS, the city promises an irresistible blend of ancient palaces, surprising green spaces and intoxicating 24/7 high-tech culture.

Of course, top of the list will be visiting Olive Young, Korea’s biggest beauty store for skincare essentials.

But I’ll also find time to wander and window-shop in the wealthy neighbourhood of Gangnam, famously mocked in original K-pop star PSY’s signature tune.

And then there’s the exciting food scene – from spicy street food to Korean barbecue, I can’t wait to indulge!

Virgin Atlantic flights to Seoul start from £757 return.

Once you’re in Seoul, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options.

A night at the glitzy Moxy Seoul Insadong starts from £100 per room, whilst backpackers love the H HOSTEL Itaewon (from £23) with its social rooftop bar.

Jenna Stevens – Travel Reporter

British break – Cley next the Sea, Norfolk

I’m lucky enough to say that heading back home for me is like going on holiday.

North Norfolk is brimming with picturesque seaside towns and quaint fishing villages, so many that I’m yet to set foot in them all, despite growing up there.

This summer I’ll be heading east along the coastline to Cley next the Sea, a charming coastal village known for its seal trips, pretty marshland and its Grade II-listed windmill facing the sea.

Overnight stays are best taken in cosy pubs with rooms, which are abundant in the area

I’m looking forward to getting stuck into harvesting fresh samphire from the shores, then washing off my wellies and heading out to local restaurants to sample the seafood.

Cley is also home to quaint pottery shops and art galleries with work from local artists. Plus, the coastal walking routes are perfect for twitchers who want to spot species like marsh harriers and bitterns.

Overnight stays are best taken in cosy pubs with rooms, which are abundant in the area.

This makes evenings effortlessly easy, as you only have to head upstairs to retire after spending the night sipping Norfolk ales and chatting with locals.

Although if you want something truly special, you can choose to stay inside Cley Windmill itself.

Inside the mill, there’s a unique circular sitting room, decorated with antique furniture and an open fire, plus a dining room dating back to 1713.

Pair this with upper-floor bedrooms looking over the marshes, and you’ve got yourself a truly unforgettable staycation.

B&B stays at Cley Windmill start from £184 per night.

Or if you prefer a more rustic stay, you can go lakeside glamping close to Cley Marshes Visitor Centre from just £40 per night.

Euro city-break – Barcelona, Spain

Despite being one of Spain’s number one fans, I’ve somehow never made it to buzzy Barcelona.

I’m looking forward to heading there this summer to soak up the coastal city’s high-energy feel, whether its by boat trip, bicycle or bar-hopping.

This year marks Gaudi’s centenary: the anniversary of 100 years since the death of the famous architect.

To celebrate, the streets of Barcelona will be alive with various street celebrations, concerts and exhibitions taking place throughout the year.

Plus, the construction on the Sagrada Familia is set to wrap up in 2026, and with the completion of a spire back in February, the church building officially became the tallest in the world.

To add to the celebrations, Barcelona has been named the World Capital of Architecture this year.

Not only is there the impressive Sagrada Familia to admire, but I’m looking forward to ticking off Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, too.

Throw in some Spanish wine tasting and plans to eat my body weight in jamon and patatas bravas, and it’s fair to say I’m excited to finally experience Barcelona this summer.

City breaks to Barcelona are a very affordable option if you’re looking for a weekend away in Europe. TUI offer a 2-night stay in June at Hotel Acta Voraport hotel from just £266pp, and that’s with return flights included!

Southern Europe scorcher – Quinta do Lago, The Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve has long been a popular destination for Brits seeking sunshine, and I’m excited to head to the sporty resort of Quinta do Lago to catch some rays myself.

If you’re a fan of golfing with gorgeous coastal views, it doesn’t get much better than Quinta do Lago.

The North, South and Laranjal golf courses are renowned for their manicured, championship-grade greens.

In fact, the South golf course at Quinta do Lago has hosted the Portuguese Open no fewer than eight times.

Plus, the sporty adults’ playground offers more than just golf, too.

Whether you’re into pilates, padel or Portuguese cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

I’m very much looking forward to rewarding myself for the workouts with a frozen cocktail and lazing out on the golden sands of Quinta do Lago beach.

A top hotel on the resort that balances stylishness and affordability is The Magnolia Hotel, which offers rooms from £138 per night.

Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Train trip – Disneyland Paris

A theme park is a great option for a weekend away, and that is exactly what I am planning with Disneyland Paris.

By the end of March, Disneyland Paris will have opened its newest land: World of Frozen.

Now, I may be 25, but nothing excites me more than seeing Olaf come to life, waddling around and making his cute chuckles.

The new land is meant to look just like the Arendelle Kingdom as well, so I am excited to feel as if I am stepping into the movie itself.

One of Disneyland Paris’ biggest appeals is its proximity to the UK and the ease of travel there.

I will take the Eurostar from London St Pancras, which alleviates the stress often felt when travelling through an airport.

By making this trip a weekend break, I don’t have to take any annual leave, so it is a win-win.

You can book a 3-night stay at the Staycity Aparthotels Marne La Vallee from just £229pp on Loveholidays – it’s only seven minutes from the attraction, and it has its own outdoor pool to cool off in, too.

Atlantic adventure – The Bay Area, California, USA

I’m no newbie when it comes to California, having visited San Francisco twice, Yosemite and Los Angeles.

But I stand by the fact that the American state is one of the most exciting and diverse places to explore.

This summer, I will focus on the Bay Area, which comprises regions bordering San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay and Suisun Bay.

The different regions include Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, Sonoma, and San Francisco.

For this trip, I will focus on Marin — home to one of America’s 10 National Seashores — and Santa Clara, where you will find Silicon Valley and San Jose.

When people think of California, they often imagine LA and San Francisco, perhaps with chic surfer dudes.

However, this trip will focus on exploring the hidden parts of the Bay Area, including the location where George Lucas created Star Wars and Indiana Jones.

You can bag return flights to San Francisco from just £444 on Skyscanner, the cheapest deals are often found flying with SWISS airline.

Scottish summer – Glasgow, Scotland

Over the past few years, I have visited several destinations in Scotland and have to admit, they are to date some of the best places I have travelled to across the entire globe.

Scotland’s landscape is like nowhere else, and its cities are full of fascinating history and architecture.

That’s why this summer I will be heading to Glasgow. I haven’t visited before, so I am super excited to see how it compares to Edinburgh.

Glasgow Cathedral and Botanic Gardens are definitely at the top of my list of places to check out.

What is even better about this trip is that train operator Lumo has just launched a route from London to Glasgow – so no extra luggage costs for me!

Glasgow is full of affordable accommodation options, such as the ever-reliable easyHotel Glasgow City Centre from just £43 per night.

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Medium haul trip – Marrakech, Morocco

Despite being known for its affordable flights, easyJet has recently launched its new Luxury Collection holiday offerings.

So I’ll be trying it out for myself on a trip to Morocco, spending a few days in Marrakech. 

I haven’t been to the city since 2018, and even then, it was on a budget, so I am excited to see the fancier side of it with a stay at the famous La Mamounia.

However, that won’t stop me from trying to hunt out a bargain in the souks, in the form of pretty kitchen bowls and candle holders.

And with 3 hr 40-minute flights and 25C weather in April? Sign me up!

You can fly to Marrakech from London from just £19.99 each way with easyJet.

Long haul adventure – East coast of Thailand

Twenty-one-year-old Kara’s biggest adventure was travelling to Asia, her first stop being a month exploring the popular Thai islands.

I’m as surprised as you are that, 12 years later, I have yet to return to the beautiful country.

So this summer, I have made it my mission to explore the parts that I forgot about as a budget traveller.

This time, I will be heading to the east coast, forgoing Bangkok and Chiang Mai for the nightlife of Pattaya.

Not only that, but my trip will also take me to Koh Chang, right by the Cambodia border.

Said to be less crowded and like going back to Thailand decades ago – I’ll be gorging on £1 Pad Thai and cheap Singha beers.

There’s plenty of luxurious hotels for affordable prices in Thailand, especially in Pattaya. Easy Planet Pattaya offers rooms from just £15 per night!

Eurotrip – Bilbao, Spain

My love of a Spanish city was only further proven last year, after falling for both Seville and Madrid after spending a long weekend in each.

So this year I’m taking myself to Bilbao for a long weekend.

It is one of the closest Spanish cities to the UK – flights are just 1hr45 – and TUI has recently launched new city break packages too.

Great tapas will be on the menu, with some of the finest in Spain, as well as soaking up some culture at the famous Guggenheim Museum.

You can visit Bilbao with TUI for a 3-night city break staying at the Occidental Bilbao from just £280pp, including return flights.

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Holiday at sea – Oceania Allura Cruise

I experienced Oceania’s glamorous Allura when she first debuted in the Med last year.

I loved her sleek cocktail bars and quality restaurants so much that I’m considering returning for a voyage in the coming months – only this time it’ll be for longer.

This summer, the 1,200-passenger vessel will be cruising between the Greek isles, sun-drenched shores of Croatia and bustling port cities in Turkey.

And with the temperatures likely to sizzle in the low 30s, there’ll be plenty of opportunity to take advantage of its sun decks.

Either flopped on one of the huge daybeds with an icy margarita, by the main pool or – my personal favourite spot – in the mellow spa at the back of the ship where you can watch the engines carve a foamy path in the sea.

In the evening, I’ll be making a beeline for Jacques, Oceania’s famous French restaurant that dishes up classics of beef tartare and wobbly cheese souffles.

I’ll be washing it down with a good bottle of red, obviously – just as the French would – before following it up with a dirty martini in Martinis.

I’ll take mine with Grey Goose, please.

A Greek island tour on Oceania’s Allura starts from £1,979 per guest for a 7-day voyage.

The most affordable Oceania cruise currently is a 7-day voyage from Rome to Barcelona, from £942 per guest.

American adventure – New York, USA

I could never tire of New York City. The Big Apple is a destination that will welcome you with open arms, whatever the weather – and one that feels endlessly full of possibilities.

I’ve returned almost every year for the past five years, and each time, I’ve experienced something new.

Things move at a fast pace, and museums, restaurants and attractions are opening on a weekly basis, making this city a revolving door of fun.

Sadly, many experiences here will burn a hole in your wallet, but there are ways of cutting back on spending.

Oyster happy hours are top on my list for summer, where participating restaurants serve up the fishy, and normally rather pricey, snack for around $1 a pop.

I’ll be scouring discount site Today Tix (todaytix.com) for bargain, last-minute tickets to Broadway shows.

And as for exploring? Some of the best activities in NYC are free.

Who can resist a stroll around Central Park? This lush, green space is so vast that it took me an hour to find my way out and back onto the urban streets on my first visit.

There are also free museum days, while trips to famous department stores like Macy’s needn’t cost you a penny.

That is, unless you fall in love with a stylish handbag or pair of shoes…

On the Beach offer week-long trips to New York, including return flights and a stay at a hotel in in Times Square, from £1,085pp.

British break – Salcombe, Devon, UK

I’m already counting down the days until I return to the South West coast of England.

Cornwall is my usual haunt, and I know its windswept coastlines, sandy bays and rugged walking trails like the back of my hand.

So, I’m mixing things up a little this summer and moving a fraction to the east, where a gorgeous holiday home in Devon’s Salcombe is awaiting my arrival.

The scenery will be familiar, but – note to self – it’s cream first, then jam, on this side of the border.

On top of jaw-dropping views, Salcombe promises scenic adventures on the water.

The destination is a renowned sailing hotspot, hosting various dinghy races throughout the summer.

Boats can be hired for private excursions with or without a skipper, depending on your experience and knowledge.

The harbour town is also home to a rather charming gin distillery, which hosts tours and tasting sessions from £50pp.

Don’t fancy gin? There’s rum, too.

You can book a stay at The Sloop Inn, a charming 14th-century seaside pub with rooms, from just £88 per night.

NewsFeed

‘Israelis are not looking for a negotiating partner, they’re looking for decimation.’

Ross Harrison joins an Al Jazeera panel discussion on what the US and Israel are seeking with their killing of senior Iranian leaders.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy says Moscow and Tehran are ‘brothers in hatred’; claims Iran’s drones ‘contain Russian components’.

More than 200 Ukrainian military experts are in the Gulf region and wider Middle East helping governments in their defence against Iran’s drone attacks, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

In an address to dozens of members of the United Kingdom Parliament in London on Tuesday, the Ukrainian leader said 201 Ukrainian anti-drone experts are in the region and another 34 “are ready to deploy”.

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“These are military experts, experts who know how to help, how to defend against Shahed drones,” Zelenskyy said in his speech, referring to the Iranian-designed “kamikaze” drones that Russia has been using in its war against Ukraine since 2022.

“Our teams are already in the Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and on the way to Kuwait,” the Ukrainian leader said.

“We are working with several other countries – agreements are already in place. We do not want this terror of the Iranian regime against its neighbours to succeed,” he said.

Last week, the Ukrainian leader said military teams had been sent to several Gulf states and Jordan.

Zelenskyy, who met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO chief Mark Rutte earlier on Tuesday, said Russia had received the Shahed-136 drones from the Iranians, who had “taught Russia how to launch them and gave it the technology to produce them”.

 

“Russia then upgraded them. And now we have clear evidence that Iranian Shaheds used in the region contain Russian components,” Zelenskyy said, describing the drones as designed for “low-cost destruction of expensive critical infrastructure”.

“So what is happening around Iran today is not a faraway war for us, because of the cooperation between Russia and Iran,” he said.

“The regimes in Russia and Iran are brothers in hatred, and that is why they are brothers in weapons. And we want regimes built on hatred to never win – in anything,” he added.

The Ukrainian leader then addressed his country’s newly developed prowess in drone warfare and manufacturing, claiming that 90 percent of Russian losses on the front lines in Ukraine are being “caused by our drones”.

Ukraine has moved on from making sea and aerial drones to producing interceptors that target drones, he said, adding that Ukraine is capable of producing at least 2,000 interceptors per day – half of which are required for its own defence and the remainder available for use by Kyiv’s allies.

“If a Shahed needs to be stopped in the Emirates – we can do it. If it needs to be stopped in Europe or the United Kingdom – we can do it. It is a matter of technology, investment, and cooperation,” he said.

While Ukraine has become one of the world’s leading producers of sophisticated, battlefield-proven drone interceptors, US President Donald Trump has said he does not need Ukraine’s help with countering Tehran’s drones targeting military targets in the Middle East.

After meeting with Zelenskyy at 10 Downing Street, Starmer said Russian President Vladimir Putin “can’t be the one who benefits from the conflict in Iran, whether that’s oil prices or the dropping of sanctions”.

During Zelenskyy’s visit on Tuesday, London and Kyiv signed a deal on a “defence partnership”, which is said to combine “Ukraine’s expertise and the UK’s industrial base to manufacture and supply drones and innovative capabilities”.

Defence official tells Congress that 47 alleged drug-trafficking vessels have been struck since campaign began.

The United States military has confirmed that at least 157 people have been killed in lethal strikes against alleged drug-trafficking boats off Latin America, described as a campaign of extrajudicial killings by legal experts.

Senior defence official Joseph Humire said that 47 “narco-trafficking vessels” have been struck in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific since the campaign began in September, in a written statement to members of the US Congress.

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Asked by lawmakers on Tuesday whether the quantity of drugs entering the US has gone down, Humire stated that the movement of drug-trafficking vessels had decreased by 20 percent in the Caribbean.

“We’ve measured the decrease in the movement of the vessels,” said Humire.

“But that’s a no in terms of the drugs actually getting into the US,” Representative Adam Smith responded.

Experts have expressed scepticism that the strikes are having any significant impact on the drug trade, and legal scholars have said that the campaign is a clear violation of international law and is blurring the distinction between armed conflict and criminal activity. Under international law, military force is permitted for the former, but not the latter.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) is holding hearings on the strikes, and advocates hope that the hearings could open the door to possible legal accountability for those responsible.

The Pentagon has shared videos on social media showing strikes on the vessels, but has provided few details about those killed or evidence of their status as drug vessels.

The administration of US President Donald Trump has embraced a militarised approach to combatting drug trafficking that has allowed the US to expand its military footprint across the region.

The US has stepped up collaboration with friendly governments such as Ecuador and threatened military strikes against countries like Mexico and Colombia if they do not do more to accommodate US demands.

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“The US Navy at this point can’t even get anywhere close to the Strait of Hormuz without being attacked.” Experts are pouring cold water on Pete Hegseth’s claims that the US is working effectively to reopen the world’s most crucial shipping lane.

WASHINGTON — Billions fewer birds are flying through North American skies than decades ago and their numbers are shrinking ever faster, mostly due to the combination of intensive agriculture and warming temperatures, a new study finds.

Nearly half of the 261 species studied showed losses important enough to be statistically significant, and more than half of those in decline have seen losses accelerate since 1987, according to a study published Thursday in the journal Science. The study is the first to look at trends in their decrease, where they are shrinking the most and what the declines are connected to, rather than total population.

“Not only are we losing birds, we are losing them faster and faster from year to year,” said study co-author Marta Jarzyna, an ecologist at Ohio State University. “Except for forest birds, almost every group is doing poorly. So we need to ask ourselves a question. How do we protect these groups of birds?”

The only consolation is that the birds that are shrinking in numbers the fastest are species — such as the European starling, American crow, grackle and house sparrow — that aren’t yet at risk of going extinct, said study lead author Francois Leroy, also an Ohio State ecologist.

“The thing is that species extinction, they start with a decline in abundance,” Leroy said, adding that “the decline is somehow maybe giving a preview of what it could lead to in terms of species extinction.”

Cornell University conservation scientist Kenneth Rosenberg, who wasn’t part of the study, said the species declining fastest in the new research “are often considered pests or ‘trash birds,’ but if our environment cannot support healthy populations of these extreme generalists and extremely adaptable species that are tolerant of humans, then that is a very strong indicator that the environment is also toxic to humans and all other life.”

A 2019 study by Rosenberg of the same bird species found North America had 3 billion fewer birds than in 1970, but didn’t look at changes in the rate of loss or causes.

Biggest bird losses in areas warming most

The biggest locations for acceleration of bird loss were in the Mid-Atlantic, the Midwest and California, the study found. And geography proved important when Leroy and Jarzyna looked for reasons why so many bird species are shrinking ever faster.

When it came to population declines — not the acceleration — the scientists noticed bigger losses farther south. When they did a deeper analysis, they statistically connected those losses to warmer temperatures from human-caused climate change.

“In regions where temperatures increase the most, we are seeing strongest declines in populations,” Jarzyna said. “On the other hand, the acceleration of those declines, that’s mostly driven by agricultural practices.”

Farmland issues speed up bird declines

The scientists found statistical correlations between accelerating decline and high fertilizer and pesticide use and the amount of cropland, Leroy said. He said they couldn’t say any of those caused the acceleration of losses, but it indicates agriculture in general is a factor.

“The stronger the agriculture, the faster we will lose birds,” Leroy said.

Jarzyna said there is a “strong interaction” between climate change and agriculture in their effect on bird populations.

“We found that agricultural intensification causes stronger accelerations of decline in regions where climate warmed the most,” Jarzyna said.

McGill University wildlife biologist David Bird, who wasn’t part of the study, said it was done well and that its conclusions made sense. With a growing human population, agriculture practices are intensified, more bird habitats are being converted to cropland, modern machinery often grind up nests and eggs, and single crop plantings offer less possibilities for birds to find food and nests, said Bird, the editor of “Birds of Canada.”

“The biggest impact of agricultural intensity though is our war on insects. Numerous recent studies have shown that insect populations in many places throughout the world, including the U.S., have crashed by well over 40 percent,” Bird said in an email. “Many of the birds in this new study showing population declines depend heavily on insects for food.”

Birds do a lot for humans

This study is both “alarming” and “sobering” because of the sheer numbers of losses and the patterns in those accelerating declines, said Richard Gregory, head of monitoring conservation science at University College London. He was not part of the research.

The paper shows that people need to change the way they live to reduce human-caused warming, reduce agricultural intensity, monoculture of crops and broad application of chemicals, said Cornell University ornithologist Andrew Farnsworth, who wasn’t part of the study.

“Here is why this study is especially important. Birds do a lot for humans,’’ McGill biologist Bird said in an email. ”They feed us, clothe us, eat pests, pollinate our plants and crops, and warn us about impending environmental disasters. With their songs, colors, and variety, birds enrich our lives … and recent studies show that their immediate presence actually increases our well-being and happiness and can even prolong our lives! To me, a world without birds is simply unfathomable.”

Borenstein writes for the Associated Press.