At least 22 people have died in Afghanistan so far due to multiple natural disasters including heavy rain, flooding, and landslide, officials said, warning of worsening bad weather in the region.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in Afghanistan on Monday said nearly two dozen people have died and 32 have been injured over the past two days, taking the death toll up from 17 reported on Sunday.

“Twenty-two people were ‌killed, 32 injured and 241 houses damaged in flooding and other weather-related incidents across 13 provinces over the past two ⁠days,” an NDMA official told Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

Torrential rains have triggered major flash floods and caused houses to collapse in rural and mountainous regions of central and eastern provinces of Afghanistan, the NDMA said. It added that this has caused most deaths in the Parwan, Maidan Wardak, Daykundi and Logar provinces.

There is a continued risk of further rain and flooding in some areas as conditions remain “unstable” in parts of the country recovering from conflict, the agency said.

Afghanistan is geographically placed in a region which is prone to natural disasters and experiences flooding, drought and earthquakes which routinely cause heavy damage to the country.

Earlier this year, heavy snowfall and flash floods left dozens of people dead across the country.

The extreme weather events, especially the snow and heavy rain that trigger flash floods, often kill dozens, or even hundreds, of people at a time.

A United ⁠Nations Development Programme report in November said earthquakes, floods, and drought ‌had destroyed ​8,000 homes in Afghanistan in ‌2025 and strained public ​services “beyond their limits”.

In 2024, more than 300 people died in springtime flash floods. Decades of conflict, coupled with poor infrastructure, a struggling economy, deforestation and the intensifying effects of climate change have amplified the impact of such disasters, particularly in remote areas where many homes are built of mud and offer limited protection against sudden deluges or heavy snowfall.

This has further aggravated the challenges for millions of Afghans who are under the Taliban-run government which has no formal recognition.

Afghanistan receives international humanitarian aid which primarily forms the backbone of ​the government’s finances but that has been slashed since the Taliban seized power in 2021, leaving millions of Afghans to cope.

Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio has teased the upcoming seventh series with a behind-the-scenes image from filming.

Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio has offered fans a glimpse of the forthcoming series through a behind-the-scenes photograph taken during production. The acclaimed BBC crime drama, which originally launched in 2012, is making a comeback with a seventh series after many believed it had concluded in 2021 following its sixth. Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar are all confirmed to reprise their roles, with the BBC having announced the show’s revival earlier this year.

The synopsis teases: “In series seven AC-12 has been disbanded and rebranded the Inspectorate of Police Standards. Anticorruption work has never been more difficult and in this challenging climate Steve Arnott (Martin Compston), Kate Fleming (Vicky McClure) and Ted Hastings (Adrian Dunbar) are assigned their most sensitive case so far.

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“Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, a charismatic officer winning plaudits for a string of takedowns of organised crime, is accused of abusing his position of trust to act as a sexual predator. But is Gough’s case a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows?”

Joining the cast as a guest star is Robert Carlyle, portraying Detective Constable Shaun Massie, a Specialist Rifle Officer (SRO) and seasoned marksman operating within Tactical Operations Unit 7 (TO-7), tasked with dismantling Organised Crime Groups. A gruff loner, Massie is not one for socialising, yet when his superior, TO-7’s commanding officer DI Dominic Gough, faces allegations of sexual predation, Massie’s typically aloof disposition shifts dramatically.

Tom Weston-Jones is set to portray Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, head of Tactical Operations Unit 7 (TO-7). The BBC describes him as “a charismatic officer who has won plaudits for a string of takedowns of organised crime, Gough is accused of abusing his position of trust to act as a sexual predator. But is his case a deliberate distraction from a bigger threat still operating in the shadows?”

Gavin and Stacey’s Laura Aikman has also been confirmed for Line of Duty as DC Paula Beckman, alongside Levi Brown as DC Luke Tobin and Amy Leigh Hickman as DC Nira Rashid. Mark Bonnar (former Deputy Chief Constable Mike Dryden), Owen Teale (Chief Constable Philip Osborne), Perry Fitzpatrick (DS Chris Lomax) and Christina Chong (DI Nicky Rogerson) will all reprise their roles for the forthcoming episodes, reports the Express.

While supporters eagerly anticipate further information about the new series, creator Jed has offered a glimpse from filming in Belfast, with the fresh instalments scheduled for next year. He posted a photograph of Adrian in police uniform as Superintendent Ted Hastings, surveying a bustling office.

The caption featured one of Hastings’ most memorable lines: “There’s only one thing I’m interested in and one thing only and that’s bent coppers.”

Fans responded enthusiastically, with one writing: “Just started rewatching the whole lot from series one, in preparation for the new series – so good,” while another declared: “I’m so happy.”

Following the announcement of additional casting details earlier this year, Robert Carlyle revealed: “Having been a huge admirer of Jed Mercurio’s work for many years, I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to join such an exceptional cast for series 7 of Line of Duty. The scripts for the series are excellent and will absolutely maintain the quality that the audience have come to expect from this fantastic show. DC Massie is an extraordinary character and I look forward to bringing him to life.”

Jed commented: “On Line of Duty we’ve been honoured by the glittering guest leads who’ve joined the cast over the years. We couldn’t be more thrilled that Robert Carlyle will star in series 7 as Specialist Rifle Officer Shaun Massie. I’ve been a huge fan of Robert’s work for many years and it will be a career highlight to work with him. Robert always brings mesmerising power and depth to every role; I know viewers will be on the edge of their seats wondering what his character will do next, and why.”

Line of Duty is set to return to BBC One and iPlayer next year.

Hollywood superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger has been honoured today by Ulster University in acknowledgement of his exceptional career and his outstanding achievements in public service, environmental campaigning, and the arts.

The former Governor of California has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate this morning at the University’s Belfast campus.

Born in Austria before relocating to the United States, Dr Schwarzenegger achieved worldwide fame as a seven-time Mr Olympia champion prior to establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors. He subsequently served as the 38th Governor of California and has gained widespread recognition for promoting environmental initiatives, civic leadership, charitable work, and public service.

The honorary degree also acknowledges Arnold Schwarzenegger’s impact on global arts and culture through a film career that contributed to defining the contemporary action genre and shaped generations of cinema-goers across the world.

Dr Schwarzenegger’s appearance at Ulster University Belfast holds particular personal meaning – it marks 60 years since his initial visit to Northern Ireland. As a young bodybuilder, he arrived in Belfast in 1966 where he was unexpectedly asked to address an audience after a competition.

Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, commented: “Few individuals have shaped global culture across sport, film and public life in the way that Dr Arnold Schwarzenegger has.

“His story – from a young athlete finding his voice in front of an audience in Belfast to becoming one of the world’s most recognisable leaders, actors and activists – speaks strongl y to the significance of self-belief, resolve and aspiration. He forged a reputation in professional bodybuilding and the film industry, leveraging that prominence for genuine benefit – championing environmental causes, serving the citizens of California and supporting the charitable initiatives close to his heart.

“This is why Dr Schwarzenegger is a true inspiration to our incredible students here at Ulster University – it was memorable to witness him sharing his advice and motivations with them and I am confident it will encourage them to also go on to achieve great things.”

Dr Schwarzenegger’s appearance coincides with Ulster University’s expanding influence in the future of cinema, television and digital narrative. Recognising one of the globe’s most iconic personalities in film-making demonstrates Ulster University’s dedication to nurturing the next wave of creative expertise and innovation through Studio Ulster, a pioneering $96 million, cutting-edge Virtual Production studio facility.

Furthermore, the University is progressing research and development in virtual production and emerging screen technologies via its Co-star Screen Lab within Studio Ulster and through Ulster Screen Academy, where contemporary and industry-focused programmes cultivate highly qualified graduates prepared to thrive in one of the economy’s most rapidly expanding sectors. The honorary degree comes during the year in which the USA celebrates its 250th anniversary. Schwarzenegger’s remarkable life story embodies that international dimension – an immigrant who forged a global career spanning sport, film and public life.

As part of the graduation ceremony, Dr Schwarzenegger took part in a special on-stage Q&A with broadcaster and presenter Holly Hamilton, delving into themes of resilience, determination and leadership that have defined his remarkable career.

The ceremony also showcased a specially commissioned musical and dance performance led by Belfast TradFest Artistic Director Dónal O’Connor, which wove together Irish traditional music and dance with a nod to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Austrian roots through Johann Strauss’ The Blue Danube Waltz, before building into a cinematic soundscape drawn from The Terminator, creating a playful and uniquely Belfast welcome.

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The museum will be open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am to 3.30pm until early November.

Volunteers have worked over the winter to create the new exhibitions which showcase more of the museum’s collection.

In the western room the theme is Roman Myth and Mysticism where the visitor will discover superstitions from long ago and learn about the role of magic in Roman Delgovicia.

In the eastern room, visitors will learn about the influence of Monks, Merchants and Medicine, and the effect these had on Old Maltune, as it was then known, and St Mary’s Priory.

Here visitors can learn about the Gilbertine monks and meet the merchants who bought wealth and prosperity to the town.

The museum’s displays team have recreated the interior of a Victorian Pharmacy so come and see some of the wondrous potions that were available to treat all manner of ailments. The Museum has worked closely with volunteers from the Malton & Norton Heritage Centre to display some of the medical items from their Woodhams-Stone Collection.

The entrance fee for the 2026 season is £5 per adult but children are free.

Outside the museum, there are town tours and summer lectures to whet your appetite and of course not forgetting Malton Roman Festival V on Sunday, July 19 where discounted early bird tickets are available for that event.

More details are available from www.Maltonmuseum.co.uk

Linda Wade, Kensington and Chelsea Councillor for Earl’s Court, has also made a representation against the application, proposing that the shop should not run as a 24/7 venue. She said if the licence is granted, Silvertime should be required to close at 11.30pm, from Sunday to Thursday, and at 12am, on Friday and Saturday.

Our inclement weather makes drying clothes on a line all year round nigh-on impossible, so the Great British public has two choices: a cheap-to-run heated clothes airer, or a convenient but energy-intensive tumble dryer. Or so you might think. In fact, the best tumble dryers these days are decidedly low-energy, costing around 60p per load but the tricky part is weighing up how much to spend up front.

Tumble dryers at the affordable end are less energy efficient, so could cost you more in the long-run. Heat pump tumble dryers are more expensive, but don’t require as much electricity to generate heat, making them more energy-efficient and cheaper in the long run.

We’ve broken down the differences between heat pump, vented and condenser tumble dryers below and asked experts for recommendations of specific tumble dryers. Where possible, we’ve got hands-on experience with the tumble dryers in question and answered your tumble dryer FAQs.

The best tumble dryers: At a glance

How to choose a tumble dryer

The best tumble dryers have multiple programme settings – for example for cottons, synthetics or delicates – helping you keep your clothes in the best nick for longer. Delay starts mean you can have your cycle begin at the best time for you, LED warnings will tell you when you need to empty a water container or replace a filter and programming lights help you keep track of drying.

At the time of testing, machines are given ratings from A+++ to D, with A+++ indicating the utmost energy efficiency. Newer appliances tend to be more energy-efficient, but it depends on how long a cycle takes and how often you use your machine as well.

Large capacity drum sizes are more energy-efficient because they’ll dry clothes in less time. Most range from 7kg to 9kg. You might also want reversible doors to change the direction in which your door opens to better suit your location. Finally, child locks prevent children messing around with the machine.

How we test tumble dryers

A British diplomat ⁠has been ordered to leave Russia after being accused of spying by Moscow.

The ⁠FSB, the main successor to the ⁠Soviet-era KGB, said that the ​second ⁠secretary at ‌the UK’s Moscow embassy had been ordered to leave within ‌two weeks after ‌counter-intelligence officers revealed the “undeclared intelligence presence”.

Claims made against the unnamed diplomat are “malicious” and “baseless”, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said.

The FSB said that ⁠it had found signs that the diplomat was “carrying out intelligence and subversive activities that threaten the security of the Russian ‌Federation,” Russian media reported.

In particular, ​the FSB said, ‌the diplomat ⁠had tried to obtain ⁠sensitive information about the Russian ‌economy ​during informal meetings.

They also claimed that he had “provided false information about himself”.

In January this year, President Vladimir Putin’s foreign ministry said it would not “tolerate the activities of undeclared British intelligence officers in Russia” after a different UK diplomat was expelled.

It comes days after Sir Keir Starmer announced British commandos will be able to board and halt Russia’s shadow fleet vessels as they pass through UK waters.

The prime minister said the UK would join northern European allies in intercepting the tankers, in an attempt to “go after” the sanction-breaking ships “even harder”.

Moscow’s shadow fleet is reported to be made up of more than a thousand ageing tankers.

They illicitly ship oil and other goods out of Russia by flying the flags of other countries, with the aim of evading sanctions imposed by the West since the invasion of Ukraine began.

On Thursday afternoon, a crude oil tanker flying under the Russian flag was located on the Marine Traffic monitoring website off the Sussex coast. The vessel, named Liteyny Prospect, is on the UK sanctions list.

A Government spokesman said: “We will not comment on specific operational planning or give a running commentary as this could compromise our ability to successfully take action against these ships, only benefitting our adversaries.

“In general terms, any target ship will be individually considered by law enforcement, military and energy market specialists before an operation is executed.”

British forces have already been involved in tracking shadow fleet vessels for several years, and have supported operations by other countries to seize the ships.

In January, the UK assisted in the seizure of the oil tanker Marinera by the US.

Previously known as the Bella-1, the Russian-flagged vessel was captured by American forces aided by RAF aircraft and the British supply ship RFA Tideforce in the Atlantic.

Later that same month, Royal Navy patrol boat HMS Dagger helped the French seize another sanctioned ship, the Grinch, in the western Mediterranean, shadowing the vessel through the Strait of Gibraltar.

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“There will be real upset and trauma for many people who witnessed what happened on the night as well, of course, as those victims who were directly impacted, but we understand that there were no fatalities and that two people have already been discharged from hospital and more we hope, soon.”

Three famous paintings worth millions have been stolen from a museum in northern Italy.

The works by French artists Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Matisse and Paul Cezanne were taken in an operation lasting less than three minutes, police said.

The thieves targeted the Magnani-Rocca Foundation villa, south of the city of Parma, on the night of 22 March.

According to sources close to the investigation, the stolen masterpieces were Renoir’s Les Poissons, Cezanne’s Still Life With Cherries and Matisse’s Odalisque On The Terrace.

The value of the three is worth “tens of millions euros”, an investigator said.

However, Italian public broadcaster Rai reported the stolen works were worth €9m (£7.8m).

There has been no official confirmation on the combined value of the paintings.

The paintings were on the first floor of what is called the Villa of Masterpieces in the Sala dei Francesi – the Room of the French.

The thieves, wearing balaclavas, gained entry by forcing open a door and were described as an “organised group”.

They were disturbed by the museum’s alarm system and escaped before they could take more paintings, “which was their intention”.

Investigators are assessing museum security footage.

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The Magnani-Rocca Foundation is a private museum which lies in the heart of the countryside 12 miles from Parma.

Established in 1977, the foundation hosts the collection of the art historian Luigi Magnani and also includes works by Durer, Rubens, Van Dyck, Goya and Monet.

It comes after a series of high-profile heists at major European museums, including last October when thieves stole jewels and other items worth £76m from the Louvre in Paris.