Abounding Opportunities

The winning image by Mexican photographer Alejandro Prieto shows a roadrunner at the border wall.

FBI hate crime reports spike to 12-year high in 2020

According to an FBI report, black and Asian Americans saw the biggest surges in targeted offences.

Why was this athlete 'too tall' to race?

Blake Leeper fought to compete with able-bodied athletes, but his blades were deemed too long.

Caldor Fire: Thousands flee as Lake Tahoe under threat

Traffic clogs evacuation routes as residents and tourists flee from the encroaching Caldor Fire.

Afghanistan: Joe Biden defends US pull-out as Taliban claim victory

Staying in Afghanistan was not an option, the US president says, as Taliban militants celebrate.

Biden defends pulling US troops out before all Americans evacuated

Joe Biden defends his decision to pull US troops out of Afghanistan before all Americans were evacuated.

Amid violent reprisals, Afghans fear the Taliban's 'amnesty' was empty

Reports suggest the Taliban are searching for, and allegedly killing, people they pledged to leave in peace.

Female journalist who interviewed Taliban flees

Beheshta Arghand, who made headlines when she interviewed the Taliban, has spoken out after fleeing the country.

Afghanistan: How can the West stop terror bases?

The foreign secretary says the UK will fight ISIS by all means available - but what does that mean?

Caldor fire: Lake Tahoe deserted as Californians evacuate

A major wildfire which began weeks ago is still spreading at the popular Californian holiday spot.

Fake Banksy NFT sold through artist's website for £244k

Duped buyer says he feels "burned" after apparent hack of Banksy website.

UNHCR 'cautiously optimistic' over working with Taliban

The UNHCR's Filippo Grandi says there has been some "positive" contact with the Taliban.

What was left behind by US forces?

As US troops took off from Kabul, they abandoned 73 aircraft - all disabled.

Afghans 'will struggle to survive or race to escape'

The BBC's Lyse Doucet reports from the Afghan capital, a day after the last US troops left.

YouTube signs Twitch video-game streamer Dr Lupo

Twitch says it wishes the American, 34, "nothing but the best in everything that comes next".

Mission: Impossible Covid shutdowns prompt lawsuit

Film maker Paramount alleges insurance payout for the latest Tom Cruise installment does not cover losses.

Does feeding garden birds do more harm than good?

How bird feeding could disrupt an ecological balance just beyond our windowsills and gardens.

Sarah Rainsford: My last despatch before Russian expulsion

The BBC's Moscow correspondent has spent much of her life in Russia. This is her final report there.

Brazil bank robbery: Hostages describe terrifying getaway car ordeal

Brazil hostages describe terrifying ordeal as bank robbers used them as human shields on getaway cars.

Cyprus on alert as Syrian oil slick spreads across Mediterranean

Modelling suggests fuel that leaked from a power plant last week will soon reach northern Cyprus.

Afghanistan: Taliban enter Kabul airport and celebrate by posing in aircraft

The group entered the Afghan capital's airport hours after the last US soldier left the country.

Tokyo Paralympics: Afghanistan athlete Hossain Rasouli makes debut after evacuation

Afghanistan evacuee Hossain Rasouli finally gets his chance to compete at the Tokyo Paralympics - and his opponents can't "help but feel joy".

Berlin university canteens cut meat from menus to curb climate change

The new menus are designed to reduce the carbon footprint of universities in the German capital.

Afghanistan: Last US military flight departs ending America's longest war

The US military's last C17 aircraft left Kabul with the ambassador on board early on Tuesday.

Highly polluting leaded petrol now eradicated from the world, says UN

The highly polluting fuel has contaminated the atmosphere, water and crops for nearly a century.

Theranos scandal: Who is Elizabeth Holmes and why is she on trial?

The former boss of blood testing company Theranos is accused of fraud and could face years in jail.

Nigerian students amass degrees to stay in Europe

Modupe Osunkoya enrolled on her third post-graduate degree because she says there are no jobs at home.

Fury as Covid crisis hits Australia's Aboriginal communities

Indigenous Australians say surging infections in remote areas should have been prevented.

Can apps move the #MeToo movement forward?

Reporting sexual harassment at work is getting easier thanks to new technologies.

From Bush to Biden: One war, four US presidents on Afghanistan

Two decades of conflict in Afghanistan shaped the legacies of each of these commanders-in-chief.

Para-Taekwondo: Taking 360 tornado kicks to Tokyo

For the first time, the Paralympic games will host a Para-Taekwondo competition.

Afghanistan: Fleeing the Taliban into Pakistan and leaving dreams behind

The BBC speaks to Afghans fleeing the Taliban into Pakistan at the Chaman Spin Boldak border.

Watch moment US military declares final flight out of Afghanistan

Top US general reveals last US aircraft took off from Hamid Karzai Airport ahead of deadline for withdrawal.

Gunfire as Taliban celebrate US leaving Afghanistan

Gunfire rang out as the BBC's Lyse Doucet reported on US troops' departure from Kabul.

Hurricane Ida: Louisiana assesses damage after storm

A million people in Louisiana are still are without electricity after a devastating storm hit.

Afghanistan drone strike: 'Ten people died here.. including my daughter'

A family comb through rubble for remains of relatives they say were killed by a US drone strike.

Afghan left behind by UK: I'm fighting to stay alive

An Afghan who had authorisation to fly to the UK speaks to the BBC about his struggle to escape.

Covid: EU set to impose travel restrictions on US as cases rise

The European Union is set to recommend barring American travellers as US hospital admissions peak.

Covid surge 'deeply worrying' in Europe as vaccinations dip - WHO

Europe could see another 236,000 deaths by December as vaccinations slow, a WHO official predicts.

Kanye West: Donda released by Universal without my say, artist claims

The rapper says his record label released his delayed 10th album without his permission.

Palestinian President Abbas holds rare talks with Israeli minister

It was the Palestinian president's first official meeting with a senior Israeli since 2010.

Paris speed limit falls to 30km/h

The mayor wants the French capital to become cleaner in the run-up to the 2024 Olympics.

Afghanistan: US investigating civilian deaths in Kabul strike

The strike aimed to stop a suicide bomber, but killed six children and four adults from one family.

China cuts children's online gaming to one hour

Regulators are restricting game-playing for under 18s to an hour on Fridays, weekends and holidays

Milan fire: Flames engulf modern 20-storey block of flats

The tower is only 10 years old and questions are being asked about how the fire spread so dramatically.

Brazil bank robbers tie hostages to getaway cars

Armed gang members took hostages as human shields, after a bank robbery in the city of Araçatuba.

Hurricane Ida's 150mph winds batter Louisiana

Ida makes landfall as a category four hurricane as pilots take us inside the eye of the storm.

Covid: Australia records 1,000th death from the pandemic

The country has fared better than many nations but is seeing more infections than ever before.

Vietnam lockdown adds to global coffee supply concerns

Wholesale coffee prices have risen by 50% this year as supplies have been hit around the world.

New Zealand woman dies after receiving Pfizer vaccine

Officials say she also had other medical issues which could have contributed to her death.

Yongbyon: UN says North Korea appears to restart nuclear reactor

A UN report says the reactor, which can produce plutonium for weapons, has been active since July.

Ethiopia's economy battered by Tigray war

Food prices are rising, the currency's value is falling and investor confidence is shaken.

Possum skin cloaks: Reviving an Aboriginal cultural tradition

Indigenous people in south-east Australia are reviving an expression of cultural identity.

Japan's huge army of under-employed ex-housewives

Why women are still battling for better jobs in the world's third largest economy.

In India, growing clamour to criminalise rape within marriage

An Indian court ruled that forced sex with a spouse is not rape. Campaigners say it's time for new laws.

Turkey lockdown: Pigeon-keeping in Istanbul on the rise

The ancient art of pigeon fancying, popular across Asia, enjoyed a revival during the pandemic.

Bodies of US troops killed in Kabul returned to America

A "dignified transfer" ceremony takes place at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, to receive their remains.

Ed Asner: Lou Grant and Up actor dies aged 91

He'll be remembered for his roles as TV newsman Lou Grant and the lead voice role in Pixar hit Up.

Jamaican reggae icon Lee 'Scratch' Perry dies aged 85

Perry, a legendary singer and music producer, is known for his pioneering experiments with dub.

Afghanistan: US drone strike 'eliminates airport bomb threat'

The strike on a vehicle prevented another suicide bombing by Islamic State, military officials say.

Max Verstappen declared winner of aborted rain-hit Belgian Grand Prix

Red Bull's Max Verstappen declared the winner of a Belgian Grand Prix that lasted only two laps behind the safety car.

Hurricane Ida: 'Catastrophic' storm surge as winds move onshore

The storm is bringing with it a potentially "catastrophic" storm surge of up to 4.8m, forecasters say.

Yemen war: Drone attack on government airbase kills 30 soldiers

Pro-government forces say Houthi rebels targeted the base with missiles and armed drones.

Mountain lion: US mother fights off animal attacking her son

She hit the animal with her bare hands as it attacked the five-year-old at their home in California.

A country abandoned: BBC's John Simpson on Afghanistan

As foreign forces end their 20-year campaign, our world affairs editor considers what has been achieved.

Afghanistan: Taxi driver, shopkeeper: UK victims of Kabul attack

Relatives and friends of Mohammad Niazi and Musa Popal pay tribute after Thursday's blasts.

Emotional arrival for Afghan Paralympians in Tokyo

The safe arrival of Afghanistan's Paralympic athletes in Tokyo sends out "a very strong message of hope", says the International Paralympic Committee.

What now for Afghans arriving in America?

Afghans land to start a new life in the US as hope dims for those left behind to face the Taliban.

Afghanistan: 'Thousands more left behind...and feel terrified'

The BBC's Lyse Doucet in Kabul says many people are still desperately trying to leave, as evacuations draw to a close.

Wife of murdered Greek ambassador jailed over his death in Brazil

Françoise de Souza Oliveira was found guilty of planning the murder with her lover, who confessed.

Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro says he will be killed, arrested or re-elected

Brazil's right-wing president is trying to rally support ahead of next year's election.

Agnes Sithole: The woman who fought South Africa's sexist marriage laws

Agnes Sithole became an unlikely hero after her husband of nearly 50 years tried to sell their home.

Your pictures on the theme of 'my summer'

A selection of striking images from our readers around the world.

Afghanistan: Black Hawks and Humvees - military kit now with the Taliban

As the insurgents swept through Afghanistan they inherited an arsenal of American-made equipment.

Afghanistan: 'I helped the US military, now help me save my family'

Afghans living in Texas plead for help to save the lives of loved ones left behind in Afghanistan.

Herat under the Taliban: residents on the new rulers

People in Afghanistan’s third-largest city, Herat, explain how life has changed in recent weeks.

Hurricane Ida: Thousands flee as storm bears down on Louisiana

Ida is forecast to be one of the strongest storms to hit Louisiana in 150 years.

'We were hurt in bombs through no fault of our own'

Jennifer McNern lost both her legs and Margaret Yeaman was blinded in separate IRA bomb attacks.

Europe migrant crisis: More than 500 people rescued off Italian island

Italian coastguards rescue 539 people from a small fishing boat believed to have set off from Libya.

Afghan refugee heading to UK gives birth at 30,000 feet

Soman Noori gives birth to baby girl Havva while flying to Birmingham, with no doctor on board.

Afghan evacuations wind down at Kabul airport

The US is still airlifting civilians from Kabul airport but the UK has now ended evacuation flights.

Who are the group that attacked Kabul airport?

The local branch of Islamic State claimed responsibility for the Kabul’s airport attack, but what threat do they pose?

Afghanistan interpreter: Getting plane out was 'happiest moment of my life'

Former Afghan interpreter Burhan and his family are now in the UK, after begging for help to escape.

Victims' relatives still desperately search for news of loved ones

The BBC's Secunder Kermani reports on the human cost of the Kabul airport attack.

French woman arrested over jewellery thefts from coffins

Police believe the woman was posing as a mourner to strip valuables from the recently deceased.

Cows on the moo-ve from Swiss Alpine meadow

Some cows are carried by helicopter in a process used by farmers to move the injured ones.

Serra Leone's chimpanzees: The newly weds who set up a sanctuary

A couple who 30 years ago bought an abused chimpanzee are now trying to save a subspecies.

ICYMI: Tank ballet, lederhosen and a brave swan

Stories you may have missed this week include Russian army games and a WWII bunker turned into a B&B.

Afghanistan: How do the Taliban make money?

The Taliban maintain a sophisticated financial network and taxation system to generate income.

Afghanistan: Why can't the UK hold Kabul airport without the US?

The US and UK have different timetables for the effort to evacuate people from Afghanistan

Paralympic cheats stopped me winning gold

British swimmer Dan Pepper says his career was ruined by the ban on intellectual impairment sports at the Paralympics after a cheating scandal in 2000.

Covid-19: The Indian children who have forgotten how to read and write

Schools in India have been closed for more than a year, with learning outcomes falling drastically.

Afghanistan: The local people helping refugees in the UK

"No-one chooses to be a refugee, if any of us were in that position I hope we would get support."

Robert F Kennedy assassin Sirhan Sirhan granted prison release

A parole board calls for Sirhan Sirhan's release, but the decision now goes to the state's governor.

Afghanistan: US to continue Kabul evacuations 'until last moment'

The US is still evacuating Afghans desperate to leave, despite a credible threat of further attacks.

Covid origin: US spy agencies publish 'inconclusive' report

The office that oversees US spy agencies could not establish how the coronavirus pandemic began.

Hurricane Ida: New Orleans braces for possible direct hit

Hurricane Ida is forecast to strike as a category 3 hurricane, the same as Katrina exactly 16 years ago.

Capitol riot: Officer who shot Ashli Babbitt reveals identity

Lt Michael Byrd told NBC that he believes he saved "countless lives" on 6 January.

Greenland island is world's northernmost island - scientists

They say a tiny island off Greenland's coast was discovered by luck during a recent expedition.

Afghan music school falls silent under Taliban rule

As the new regime bans music, the head of Afghanistan's national music school says students are scared.

Kenyans stranded overnight in Mombasa Road traffic jam in Nairobi

Nairobi is notorious for its gridlocks but this was the worst many residents can remember.

Pakistan-Afghanistan border: Ambassador pressed over threat from terrorist groups

The BBC's Lyse Doucet spoke to Mansoor Ahmad Khan, Pakistan's ambassador to Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: Pen Farthing team 'turned away' from airport

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace says supporters of an animal charity have "taken up too much time".

Afghans in Calais prepare to risk lives again to reach UK

Aid agencies on the French coast are preparing for a new influx of migrants trying to get to the UK.

Kabul airport attack: 'Today I saw doomsday'

Afghans caught up in the twin blasts outside Kabul airport speak of the horror they witnessed.

Austrian ex-far-right leader Strache guilty of corruption

The verdict comes two years after a video sting ended Heinz-Christian Strache's political career.

The Red Cross in Afghanistan: 'If we leave, who stays?'

Dr Alberto Cairo, who has worked in Afghanistan since 1990, tells the BBC "if we leave who stays?".

French presidency: Michel Barnier joins race 'to change France'

The former EU Brexit negotiator says he will take on Emmanuel Macron in the elections next spring.

Time's Up: Boss quits over ties to scandal-hit governor Andrew Cuomo

Tina Tchen is second Time's Up resignation in connection with politician accused of harassing women.

Covid-19: Florida doctor 'offered parents mask exemption letters for students'

The Florida doctor reportedly offered the medical letters for pupils in schools with mask rules.

Nigeria: Gunmen free kidnapped schoolchildren

The students from an Islamic school in Tegina were abducted by gunmen last May.

Afghanistan's Uyghurs fear the Taliban, and now China too

Members of the ethnic group say they fear the Taliban takeover could bring China to their doorstep.

Indian-American gay couples find new forms of union amid stigma

Although gay marriage is legal in the US, Indian-American couples struggle to find priests to marry them.

Why is there a chip shortage?

The big chip crunch is really biting now, leaving even the most unexpected industries in crisis.

Africa's week in pictures: 20-26 August 2021

A selection of the best photos from the African continent and beyond.

Afghanistan: Biden vows to complete evacuations despite airport attack

Joe Biden says the Kabul airlift will go on, after bombings which killed 60, including 13 US troops.

Daniel Dias: History's greatest para-swimmer

Daniel Dias has won 25 medals for Brazil over the past four Paralympic Games but will be retiring after Tokyo.

Afghanistan's economy in crisis after Taliban take-over

Even before the Taliban gained control, Afghanistan's economy was fragile.

Kabul airport bomb attack leaves many casualties

US officials also say there were reports of gunfire following the blast.

Afghanistan: Former Royal Marine on the chaos at Kabul airport

A former Royal Marine, who was near to the explosions at Kabul airport, describes being caught in the chaos.

Kabul airport attack: What do we know?

The bombings came hours after warnings to citizens to stay away from the airport, due to an imminent threat.

Afghanistan crisis: Who are Isis-K?

The jihadist group - set up in 2015 - is blamed for some of the worst atrocities in recent years.

Ron Jeremy: US adult film star indicted on 34 sex crime charges

Ron Jeremy has pleaded not guilty to assault allegations from 21 women that span over two decades.

Young Afghan mayor who fled Taliban hidden in car

One of Afghanistan's first female mayors, Zarifa Ghafari, describes her dramatic escape to Germany.

US judge reprimands Trump election fraud lawyers

A US district judge accuses Sidney Powell and others of trying to undermine faith in democracy.

New species of ancient four-legged whale discovered in Egypt

The three-metre whale was found in Egypt and has been named after Anubis, the ancient god of death.

Israel's Bennett seeks reset with US at first meeting with Biden

Israeli PM hopes Joe Biden will agree to help stop Iran's nuclear programme at their first meeting.

Nah he tweakin: What it means and why it's all over our timelines

A row on the use of blood in celebrity-endorsed products has made those three words viral.

Stalin-era mass grave found in Ukraine

Thousands of people are thought to be buried at the site - one of the largest ever found in Ukraine.

Mass brawl erupts in Armenian parliament: Third violent bout in just two days

Security personnel were called in to remove several members after violence erupted on the parliament floor.

Abba: Band teases major announcement ahead of new music

The band, who have not released new music for 39 years, reveal a new project called Abba Voyage.

Letitia Wright treated for injuries after Black Panther 2 accident

The actress suffered injuries in a stunt rig accident on the set of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

The real victims of mass crypto-hacks that keep happening

Millions in Bitcoin and other digital coins are being stolen by hackers with victims left in limbo.

Why rent control isn’t working in Sweden

Young people are struggling to afford city living, and even the Swedes can't crack the problem.

The hard men removing squatters in Spain

Some squatters in Spain demand cash before leaving - so eviction firms have arisen to handle the talks.

Kenya's Deputy President Ruto campaigns for 'Hustler Nation'

Deputy President William Ruto is portraying himself as the champion of the poor ahead of elections.

Afghanistan: The 'undefeated' valley an hour from Kabul

The Panjshir Valley has been a flashpoint in Afghanistan's turbulent history - now it's happening again.

Afghanistan: 'The pain of watching my country burn from afar'

Hundreds of Afghan have taken refuge in India but they are worried about their families back home.

Gretchen Whitmer: Man sentenced over kidnap plot

Ty Garbin plotted to kidnap Gretchen Whitmer over Michigan's Covid-19 restrictions.

Afghanistan: Taliban committed to post-deadline safe passage, US says

The US says it will hold the Taliban to a promise to let people leave Afghanistan after 31 August.

Leopard attacks model in German photoshoot

The 36-year-old woman was seriously wounded by the animal at a retirement home for show animals.

Aryana Sayeed: Afghanistan returns to miserable time for women

Afghan singer Aryana Sayeed on fleeing the country and her concerns for those who remain.

Delta Airlines imposes $200 monthly surcharge on unvaccinated staff

The US airline also says Covid sufferers won't get sick pay unless they are double-jabbed.

Thai police chief, known as Jo Ferrari, wanted over viral torture clip

Widely known as "Jo Ferrari", the now-sacked officer is being sought over a drug suspect's death.

British stamps banned from Chagos Islands in Indian Ocean

The decision moves Mauritius a symbolic step closer to wresting UK control of the archipelago.

Afghanistan chaos: The British families in limbo

The stories of Britons stuck in Kabul, families in limbo and Afghans starting new lives in the UK.

Coronavirus origins: US intelligence report 'inconclusive'

US intelligence was tasked with looking into animal-to-human transfer or a possible lab leak.

Biscarosse beach: Man missing after French plane makes emergency landing

Rescue services search for a co-pilot who leapt into the sea when a light aircraft got into trouble.

Tears on the tarmac as Afghan journalist speaks to BBC

Wahida Faizi says she cannot stay in Afghanistan because she believes the Taliban will kill her.

Japanese rollercoaster shut as injuries investigated

The world's fastest-accelerating rollercoaster is closed in Japan after claims of serious injuries.

Nirvana sued by the baby from Nevermind's album cover

Spencer Elden, who was photographed as a four month-old, is alleging child pornography.

Landslides kill 15 in western Venezuela after heavy rains

Heavy rains triggered flash floods which swept through towns in the Andes causing extensive damage.

India woman who accused MP of rape dies in self-immolation

Her death puts the spotlight on the shameful treatment of women in India.

Kanye West files to officially change name to Ye

It's taken three years since the rapper first announced the change.

Business still has time to help Afghans - AirBnB boss

Co-founder Brian Chesky urges more firms to help after promising free lodging for 20,000 refugees.

Madagascar on the brink of climate change-induced famine

The country is on the brink of experiencing the world's first "climate change famine", the UN says.

Bilal Sarwary: 'In the city I loved, suddenly nowhere was safe'

Journalist Bilal Sarwary saw the Taliban toppled in 2001 and his country reborn. So how does he feel now?

Afghanistan: How much opium is produced and what's the Taliban's record?

The Taliban claims opium poppy cultivation was stopped when it last held power in Afghanistan.

Can the US crack down on fake vaccination cards?

As more people are asked to prove vaccination status, a black market in fake health cards has boomed.

Biden: 'Taliban helping us get people out of Afghanistan'

The US says evacuation efforts to help people get out of Afghanistan are 'on pace' to meet a 31 August deadline.

Could this solar farm be a climate change solution?

UN experts say rapid innovative solutions are needed to end our dependency on fossil fuels. Could this new project provide an answer?

Tokyo Paralympics: The lowdown on being disabled in Japan

From moon riders to job quotas, three residents give the lowdown on being disabled in Japan.

Afghanistan: 'The sooner we finish, the better,' says Joe Biden

The US president says US troops are on track to end evacuations by a 31 August deadline.

US House approves Biden's $3.5tn domestic budget blueprint

The resolution allows Mr Biden's Democrats to move forward with their domestic policy proposals.

Japanese yakuza mobster sentenced to death

Nomura Satoru denied ordering four assaults, one of which was deadly.

Tokyo Paralympics: 2020 Games get under way with powerful opening ceremony

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympics are officially under way after a powerful opening ceremony.

A Kabul evacuee's tale: Dread, chaos and the Taliban

An Indian woman tells the BBC of the on-and-off trauma of getting out of Taliban-held Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: Secret Kabul talks between CIA and Taliban - US media

The secret meeting came ahead of a deadline for US troops to leave Afghanistan on 31 August.

Taliban to US: Don't encourage Afghans to leave, we need them

Foreign countries should stop encouraging Afghans to leave their country, a Taliban spokesman says.

Afghanistan: Credible reports of executions by Taliban says UN

Human rights violations against Afghan women and girls have also been reported, the UN says.

How losing his sight spurred cyclist Steve Bate to the Paralympics

Steve Bate was told he could be blind within four years - now he's defending his Paralympic title.

German poison probe after drinks spiked at university in Darmstadt

Six people were taken to hospital with bluish extremities after using a science department's tea area.

R. Kelly trial: Woman says singer pressured her to have abortion

The second accuser to testify against the singer says he abused her and urged her to get an abortion.

Convicted ex-Chadian leader Hissène Habré dies

The former president was sentenced to life in a landmark trial for crimes against humanity.

Mar Menor: Tonnes of dead fish wash up on Spanish lagoon's shores

Ecologists say pollution is to blame, as officials consider declaring the Mar Menor a disaster area.

How are women in Afghanistan reacting to Taliban takeover?

The BBC's Secunder Kermani speaks to women in Afghanistan about the Taliban takeover.

Afghan para-athlete welcomed by new team in Spain

Nilofar Bayat, Afghan wheelchair basketball women's captain, is in Bilbao after fleeing the Taliban.

Russian toddler lost in woods for four days vows 'never again'

The 22-month-old Russian girl was found alive by a search party, four days after she wandered off.

Ros Atkins on... Trump's Taliban deal

A deep dive into the US-Taliban deal of 2020 and its role in the militant group's takeover of Afghanistan.

Kabul arrivals in the UK: 'We are the lucky ones'

UK troops are evacuating British nationals and eligible Afghans. Here are some of their stories.

Chinese ride-hailing giant Didi halts UK launch plan

It comes as Chinese firms face scrutiny by Western nations and as Beijing cracks down on data privacy.

Kamala Harris accuses China of coercion and intimidation

She is currently on a tour of the region as the US aims to reaffirm its commitment to the region.

Afghanistan: US under pressure over evacuation deadline

France, the UK and Germany all raise the possibility of troops staying beyond the end of August.

Hakainde Hichilema: Zambia's new president inspires African opposition leaders

Long-suffering politicians hope to copy Hakainde Hichilema, who was elected at his sixth time attempt.

Climate change: Europe's extreme rains made more likely by humans

Heavy rainfall that led to deadly floods in Germany and Belgium was influenced by human induced warming.

VR helps Indians and Pakistanis visit their lost homes

Indians and Pakistanis who fled their homes during partition can now revisit their childhood - virtually.

The Angolan soldier who became a London pub legend

Cesar Kimbirima fled Angola after being shot four times and spending five months in a coma.

Proud Boys leader sentenced for burning Black Lives Matter flag

Enrique Tarrio admitted to burning a Black Lives Matter flag, stolen from a church, in July.

Afghanistan: US aims to complete evacuations by deadline

Allies step up calls to extend a 31 August withdrawal, but the Taliban insist this will violate a deal.

Tanzania's Samia Suluhu Hassan criticised over female footballers comments

The country's first female president recently told the BBC about facing gender discrimination.

Tokyo Paralympics: A 'different' Games but Paralympians still hope to shine

The opening ceremony of the Tokyo Paralympics takes place on Tuesday with the Japanese capital still facing Covid-19 challenges.

'Hours not weeks for UK Afghan evacuation'

The defence secretary says the UK will leave Kabul alongside next week's planned US withdrawal.

Pfizer becomes first Covid vaccine to gain full FDA approval

It is the first Covid jab to receive federal approval, and opens the door to new vaccine mandates.

Poland to build Belarus border fence after migrant influx

Poland and its EU allies have accused Belarus of weaponising migrants in response to sanctions.

Israeli strikes on Gaza high-rises may be war crimes - Human Rights Watch

Four tower blocks were destroyed by Israeli forces during May's conflict with Palestinian militants.

Mozambique 'tuna bond' scandal: Ex-President Guebuza's son on trial

Mozambique's biggest corruption scandal led donors to cut funding and an economic crisis.

Afghanistan: Foreign troops extension 'a clear violation' - Taliban

A Taliban spokesman says Afghans with passports can leave on commercial flights "at any time".

Storm Henri: Lightning strikes One World Trade Center

The strike was captured as Storm Henri approached the north-east of the US, bringing heavy rain.

Hurricane Grace: Mexican man buries wife and five children killed in mudslide

A man and his son were the only members of a family of eight to survive a mudslide in Mexico.

Hours without food or water in Kabul airport 'hell'

An Afghan man who worked for the British army tells the BBC he and his family cannot get through the crowds.

Joséphine Baker to be first black woman to enter France's Panthéon

Performer and World War Two resistance fighter Joséphine Baker will be honoured at the mausoleum.

Afghanistan: People at Kabul airport flee Taliban with just a suitcase

Afghans waiting at Kabul airport tell the BBC of their pain at fleeing the country they love.

Chip giant's IPO hit by Beijing crackdown on business

The share listing of BYD Semiconductor has been suspended due to a regulatory investigation.

Barakat: First South African film in Cape Town's Afrikaans dialect

Barakat, or blessing, is the first film in Afrikaaps - a dialect of Afrikaans spoken in Cape Town.

Afghanistan: The BBC's Lyse Doucet reports from Kabul airport

The BBC's Lyse Doucet witnesses Afghan men, women and children fleeing the Taliban regime.

Tennessee: Drone video shows damage from flash floods

Heavy rainfall in the US state causes deadly flash floods, destroying homes and sweeping away cars.

Covid: Taiwan rolls out homegrown vaccine amid criticism

Taiwan's president was vaccinated with the country's first domestically developed jab named Medigen.

French match abandoned after player hit by bottle

Nice versus Marseille is abandoned after Dimitri Payet throws a bottle back into the crowd and fans storm the pitch.

Afghanistan crisis: 'Hey world, do you care what happens here?'

A young woman shares her fears a week after the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.

Nord Stream 2: Russia must not use gas pipeline as weapon, says Merkel

The German chancellor says Moscow could face sanctions if it uses Nord Stream 2 against Ukraine.

Afghanistan: 'Women should fight for the right to work'

A leading campaigner for women's rights in Afghanistan was evacuated from Kabul last week, after going into hiding.

Why a US military base became a centre for Chinese Covid conspiracies

Apparent Chinese propaganda efforts are spreading ahead of a US report on Covid-19 origins.

Kamala Harris joins diplomatic charm offensive in South East Asia

The US vice-president's trip to the region falls in the shadow of a chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Storm Henri makes landfall at Rhode Island

More than 120,000 homes are without power as millions of people warned to expect significant damage.

Afghanistan: US orders civilian jets to join evacuation

A Pentagon statement says 18 commercial aircraft will help with the evacuation effort.

C-17: The US military plane carrying Afghans to safety

A Boeing C-17 safely carried 823 Afghans from Kabul last week, a record number for that plane.

Afghanistan: Sport bodies call for emergency evacuation of female players

Fifa and players' union Fifpro call on governments to arrange the emergency evacuation of female footballers in Afghanistan.

Covid: New Zealand pandemic strategy in doubt amid Delta spread

The highly infectious Delta variant "does change the game", the Covid response minister says.

Afghanistan: Where will refugees go after Taliban takeover?

Thousands of people are scrambling to flee Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of the country.

Afghanistan: Woman gives birth on US evacuation plane

The woman went into labour en route to Ramstein Air Base in Germany and gave birth on the plane.

Everly Brothers: US rock 'n' roll star Don Everly dies aged 84

The rock 'n' roll duo were known for their harmonies and influenced bands including The Beatles.

Elaine Thompson-Herah runs second fastest time in women's 100m history

Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah runs the second fastest time in women's 100m history as she clocks 10.54 seconds in Eugene.

Hurricane Grace kills eight as it rips through eastern Mexico

The powerful storm brings torrential rain and high winds, causing power cuts and flooding.

Kenya holds biggest ever animal census

All wildlife on land and sea is being counted to help Kenya's conservation plans and tourism.

Dorothy Butler Gilliam: 'I am not a maid, I am a reporter'

The first black female reporter on the Washington Post says some colleagues would pretend not to know her.

Algeria's desperate wildfire fight: Buckets and branches

Despite a huge military budget, oil-rich Algeria is ill-equipped to tackle annual fires.

Biden's week of blame and tumult after Kabul fall

How the fall of Kabul stunned the Biden administration and spawned the worst week of his presidency.

Hurricane Henri: US East Coast warned of significant damage

This could be the first time in 30 years that New England is hit by a hurricane.

Afghanistan: US tells citizens to avoid Kabul airport

The warning comes amid continued chaos outside the airport, with reports of a deadly crush.

Nigeria's royal wedding: Private jets, glitz and glamour

President Buhari's son marries the daughter of a religious leader in one of Nigeria's events of the year.

Covid: Australian police clash with anti-lockdown protesters

Hundreds of people are arrested after rallies against lockdown measures in Melbourne and Sydney.

R. Kelly aide says he paid bribe for singer to marry Aaliyah

An ex-tour manager for the singer testifies that he obtained a fake ID for then 15-year-old Aaliyah.

'I play carrom with my feet'

Twenty-three-year-old Harshad Gothankar was born without arms, but he is now a state carrom champion.

Africa's jihadists: What Taliban takeover of Afghanistan means

Islamist groups appear emboldened by the fall of Afghanistan, sparking concern in African countries.

Week in pictures: 14 - 20 August 2021

A selection of powerful images from all over the globe, taken this week.

Computer Space and beyond: 50 years of gaming

From an arcade game to a multi-billion pound industry, the BBC charts the ups and downs of video games.

Afghan crisis: Russia plans for new era with Taliban rule

While Western governments raced to get their people out, Russia appears unfazed by the takeover.

Family of American taken by Taliban beg for return

Mark Frerichs, 59, one of the last Americans kidnapped by the Taliban, is stuck in Afghanistan.

Turmoil in Afghanistan hits close to home in America too

Christine's husband was killed in Afghanistan - she's horrified by the Taliban's return to power.

How Afghanistan's media is changing under Taliban rule

The Taliban are currently on a media offensive but does their rhetoric match what’s happening on the ground?

Ever Given: Cargo ship returns through Suez Canal it blocked

Global trade was disrupted in March when the massive container ship became stuck in the waterway.

Afghanistan: The desperate scramble to escape

The BBC witnesses scenes of chaos and panic as thousands still crowd Kabul's airport.

Poison algae may have killed California family, police say

A family of three may have been killed by toxic algae blooms on a hiking trail, investigators say.

Nine Afghan girl robotics team members safe in Qatar

The all-girls team, known as the "Afghan Dreamers" have made headlines around the world.

'They will kill me': Desperate Afghans seek way out after Taliban takeover

Many Afghans are desperate to escape after the Taliban takeover. Some fear there is no way out.

Rafael Nadal: Spaniard ends 2021 season because of foot injury

Spain's 20-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal has ended his 2021 season because of a foot injury.

Joe Biden to Americans in Afghanistan: 'We will get you home'

Mr Biden has come under intense criticism amid the chaotic withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.

Jeopardy! host Mike Richards quits after sexist comments surface

Mike Richards has stepped down as the new host of the show over comments he made on a 2013 podcast.

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: US accuses Abiy's government of blocking aid

Washington's aid chief says food is set to run out, with hundreds of thousands at risk of famine,

Haiti earthquake: Tensions rise in struggle to get aid to victims

Five days after a powerful earthquake struck, hundreds are missing and people are desperate for aid.

Afghanistan: Stun grenades used outside Kabul airport

Huge crowds have gathered outside Afghanistan's Kabul airport as people try to flee the Taliban.

Simone Biles and mental health focus: 'I wouldn't change anything for the world'

Four-time Olympic gold medallist Simone Biles "wouldn't change anything for the world" because she "gave an outlet for athletes to speak up about mental health".

Amnesty International: 'Disconnect between Taliban claims and reality'

What Taliban spokespeople say and what is happening is very different, says Amnesty International.

Sonny Chiba: Japan's martial arts star and Kill Bill actor dies of Covid at 82

The actor and martial arts legend played a swordsmith in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill films.

Afghanistan: Taliban carrying out door-to door manhunt, report says

The militants are searching for those who worked with Nato forces, a UN document warns.

New York officer rescues fallen man from subway train

A bystander captured the harrowing moments after a passenger fell unconscious from the platform.

Quiz of the week: Rude place names and noisy ice-cream vans

How closely have you been paying attention to what's been going on during the past seven days?

Taliban and women: Kabul university student on fears for future

A Kabul university student tells the BBC how she is wiping out all traces of her previous life.

Amazon 'planning to open department stores in US'

According to reports, the e-commerce giant wants to branch further into High Street retail by opening several big stores.

Paralympics: Palak Kohli on preparing for Tokyo 2020

Palak Kohli is the only Indian para-badminton player to be competing in three categories in Tokyo.

Drag Race UK queens on battles with Brexit and Covid

The latest British series features its first ever female drag queen, and a familiar face.

Zaki Anwari: Afghan footballer falls to death from US plane in Kabul

Zaki Anwari, 19, had played for Afghanistan's national team before attempting to flee the country.

Afghanistan: Protesters wave national flag at Independence Day protests

Afghan protesters mark Independence Day with the national flag, days after the Taliban takeover.

The treacherous road to Kabul's airport

As thousands try to flee Afghanistan, the main route to the capital's airport has become treacherous.

Afghanistan: Child handed over Kabul airport wall as chaos continues

Afghans try to scale airport walls and shots are fired as crowds keep trying to flee the Taliban.

Washington DC: Active bomb threat near US Capitol

US Capitol Police are negotiating with the driver of a suspicious vehicle on Capitol Hill.

Canadian soldier faces jail over feeding cannabis cupcakes to troops

A Canadian bombardier fed cannabis cakes to troops during a drill involving guns and live ammunition.

Covid-19: Mississippi quarantines 20,000 pupils at start of new school year

Schools around the US are seeing Covid-19 outbreaks within days of starting the new academic year.

Haiti earthquake: Rescue efforts continue in Les Cayes

The death toll from the 7.2-magnitude quake is now over 2,000, with many still missing in towns like Les Cayes.

‘Don’t forget the 500,000 internally displaced Afghans’ - UNCHR

Do not forget the 500,000 internally displaced people, the UNHCR representative to Afghanistan says.

Afghanistan: A woman's story of life under the Taliban in 1999

Taliban rule in 1999 - an Afghan woman recalls the day her father disappeared.

Afghanistan: Who originally supported Trump's deal with the Taliban?

UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace now calls it a "rotten" deal but supported it at the time.

Afghanistan evacuations: Woman on trip back to Kabul describes fleeing city

A councillor who was visiting family in the country she had left aged three tells of her evacuation.

Belgium stabbing suspect won’t be charged over unborn baby’s death

A man in Belgium is charged with allegedly stabbing his partner, but not her unborn baby's death.

Facebook reveals most-seen posts are inane questions, not politics

"Does sugar go in spaghetti?" is among the US's top posts, as Facebook battles right-wing content claims.

Chip shortage: Toyota to cut global production by 40%

The world's biggest carmaker will cut output in September, while VW warns it may have to make further cuts.

Russia names Golos monitor as 'foreign agent' ahead of election

Golos has vowed to continue its work ahead of parliamentary elections in a month's time.

Afghanistan: Pakistan fences off from Afghan refugees

Islamabad says it cannot accept any more Afghans fleeing Taliban rule, despite UN pleas.

Brazil hopes the world will get a taste for its favourite spirit

With domestic sales of cachaça falling last year, Brazilian producers want to export more.

No help for these Haiti residents five days after earthquake

Five days after the earthquake that killed almost 2,000 people, many are still waiting for help.

Tigray crisis: Ethiopian teenagers become pawns in propaganda war

The BBC is told they were forced to fight for Tigray's rebels, but were words put into their mouths?

Afghanistan: Joe Biden said chaos was 'inevitable'

In an interview with ABC, Joe Biden said nobody could have anticipated the speed of the Taliban takeover.

India's living dead: 'They stared at me like I was a ghost'

If you're dead you can't own land - so if someone obtains your death certificate you could lose everything.

Algeria: The forest fires that led to an artist's lynching

When Djamel Ben Ismail went to fight forest fires in Algeria, his life was cut short by a raging mob.

IMF suspends Afghanistan's access to funds

The move follows the Taliban's takeover, and lack of global agreement over who now governs Afghanistan.

Can the Paralympics bring lasting change?

A campaign gets underway to try to improve the lives of the world's 1.2bn disabled people.

Afghanistan: 'I feel lucky to leave but we must not forget those left behind'

The UK government says 306 UK nationals and 2,052 Afghans have been flown out of the country so far.

'It was very emotional on the plane out of Afghanistan'

Afghan businesswoman Hassina Syed speaks of her relief at getting out on a British military plane.

Afghanistan: Hard lessons to be learned for Nato, says Stoltenberg

It was a tragedy Afghan security forces collapsed so fast, secretary general Jens Stoltenberg says.

Israel extends Covid restrictions to three-year-olds as cases surge

Young children must show proof of a negative test to enter many indoor spaces, as infections surge.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani in UAE, officials say

The UAE says it has welcomed the president and his family on humanitarian grounds.

Brandon Flowers on new Killers album Pressure Machine, inspired by Utah hometown

The Killers frontman speaks about their new album, Pressure Machine, inspired by his rural hometown.

Afghanistan crisis: Chaos as Europeans scramble to evacuate Kabul

Several countries rush to fly people out, as the Dutch government is criticised for reacting slowly.

R Kelly trial set to begin in New York

The singer is accused of racketeering, sexual abuse and bribery; charges which he has denied.

Aspirin may help treat aggressive breast cancer

Doctors hope it could boost the anti-cancer power of other drugs to fight hard-to-treat tumours.

Twitter tests 'misleading' post report button for first time

Many large social media firms have been accused of not doing enough to fight the spread of disinformation.

Taliban have been looking for me, says ex-Afghanistan bank governor

Militants have been knocking on the doors of places he used to live, Ajmal Ahmady says.

Lithuania says Belarus officers illegally pushed migrants over border

Video shows 12 Belarusian officers in riot gear as migrants scramble towards Lithuanian territory.

Afghanistan: National flag protesters in Jalalabad appear to be disrupted by gunshots

Video appears to show protesters waving the country's national flag before fleeing.

Cuba tightens control of internet after protests

Critics say the new rules are aimed at stifling dissent following mass anti-government demonstrations.

How technology in the air battles fires on the ground

Planes equipped with infrared scanners are helping authorities take on historic wildfires in the US.

Afghanistan: Mysterious Taliban spokesman finally shows his face

The spokesman has appeared in public for the first time. But is there more than one Zabihullah Mujahid?

Afghanistan: What's the impact of Taliban's return on international order?

What is the diplomatic fallout and how allies and rivals are looking at the US following the Taliban takeover?

California man sues after being startled by dumpster-diving bear

A dumpster-diving bear allegedly "startled" the man and caused him to fall and hurt himself.

Afghanistan: Female Kabul resident fears for future under Taliban

A woman shares her story of the day the Taliban arrived - and why she has lost all hope.

Afghanistan: 'Was my role in Afghan War worth it?'

US military veterans say the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan was "tragic" but "inevitable".

Afghan women to have rights within Islamic law, Taliban says

The militant group, which has taken control of Afghanistan, is pressed on fears over women's freedoms.

Astronomers see galaxies in ultra-high definition

Researchers capture some of the most detailed images ever seen of galaxies in deep space.

Afghanistan: Facebook continues ban of Taliban-related content

Technology firms face challenges on how to handle content created by the group and its supporters.

Taliban: 'We will not allow the soil of Afghanistan to be used against anyone'

The Taliban have held their first news conference since taking control of Afghanistan.

Afghan reporter asks Nato Secretary for help

Lailuma Sadid, a journalist with Brussels Morning Newspaper, became emotional when asking the Nato Secretary-General about the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: 'All female staff have left my Kabul hotel'

The BBC's Malik Mudassir says Taliban fighters are now providing security at his hotel in central Kabul.

Khaled Hosseini: ‘A sliver of hope’ for Afghanistan

This is a different country to the one the Taliban left, I hope they adapt to it, the author says.

Uncertain times ahead for Afghan women

After the Taliban takeover, it is not yet clear how women will fare with the militants in power.

How America watched as Taliban won the war

US military veterans and Afghan Americans reflect on a dramatic day - and the two-decade conflict.

Tokyo Paralympics: Afghanistan athletes unable to attend Games because of unrest

Afghanistan's two Paralympic athletes are stropped from competing at the Tokyo Games because of unrest in the country.

Sudoku: Maki Kaji, puzzle enthusiast, dies aged 69

The Japanese puzzle enthusiast helped popularise the number game, leading to its global success.

Afghanistan: Striking image captures Kabul exodus

A photo appears to show hundreds of Afghans packed on a US military plane as they flee the Taliban.

Afghanistan: Female presenters back on Tolo News after Taliban takeover

Women had been noticeably absent from major news outlets after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan.

France wildfire: Thousands evacuated as blaze rages near Riviera

Firefighters clear campsites in the Var region as some 5,000 hectares are destroyed by fire.

Israel battles huge wildfire near Jerusalem

The blaze has destroyed some 2,000 hectares (5,000 acres) of forest over the past three days.

Biden's speech on Afghanistan fact-checked

How consistent was President Biden's speech with his previous statements on Afghanistan?

New Zealand enters nationwide lockdown over one Covid case

Authorities say they are still running tests, but are assuming it is a case of the Delta variant.

Afghanistan: Will it become haven for terror with the Taliban in power?

The Taliban are back, 20 years after being ousted for supporting terror groups. Will they do the same?

Biden defends US withdrawal from Afghanistan

"How many more American lives is it worth?" says the president at the White House.

Bezos sues Nasa over its deal with Elon Musk's SpaceX

Mr Bezos's Blue Origin says it was unfairly treated after being excluded from lunar landing contract.

US increases food stamp aid for poorer Americans

The increase of about $36 (£26) per person, per month, is the largest in the programme's history.

Twitter's new design to get fix after headache complaints

Unveiled last week, the redesign involved high-contrast colours and a custom-designed font, Chirp.

Why is the Taliban's Kabul victory being compared to the fall of Saigon?

Many have drawn parallels with America's withdrawal from Vietnam in 1975 - but is this fair?

Afghanistan: Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen calls the BBC - interview in full

A spokesman for the Taliban, Suhail Shaheen, called the BBC's Yalda Hakim, live on air.

Afghanistan: Why is there a war?

As foreign forces pull out after 20 years of war, what did it achieve and what happens next?

Afghanistan: In pictures: Kabul - a day after Taliban takeover

Kabul - the Afghan capital - is quiet in some parts, but chaotic at the airport where thousands are trying to flee.

Uganda anti-pornography law dropped after backlash

Legislation branded the "anti-miniskirt" law is annulled by Uganda's Constitutional Court.

Hakainde Hichilema: The Zambian 'cattle boy' who became president

After six attempts, Hakainde Hichilema has finally become president of Zambia.

Tesla Autopilot: US opens official investigation into self-driving tech

The investigation covers all Tesla cars since 2014, focusing on crashes with emergency vehicles.

Ebrar Karakurt: Supporters rally around Turkish volleyballer after abuse

Ebrar Karakurt was abused online after posting a photo with her girlfriend on Instagram.

Malala: 'Futures of Afghan child refugees aren't lost'

Nobel peace laureate, Malala Yousafzai was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012.

UK military commander: 'We've betrayed' Afghans who helped British troops'

Major General Charlie Herbert, a military commander from the UK’s campaign in Afghanistan, has accused the government of betraying Afghans who supported British troops.

How the Taliban stormed across Afghanistan in ten days

The Taliban took their first city on 6 Aug and arrived in Kabul just over a week later.

Afghanistan: Life in Kabul after the Taliban victory

BBC video journalist Malik Mudassir speaks about life in the city after its capture by the Taliban.

Chaos at Kabul airport as thousands of Afghans try to flee Taliban

Video shows crowds of Afghans attempting to flee, as the Taliban take over the capital.

Afghans arrive in Delhi after Taliban take over Kabul

Afghans arrive at Delhi airport in India after the Taliban take control of the country.

Afghanistan: 'Women won't be silenced by the Taliban'

Teacher and human rights activist Pashtana Durrani questions what the Taliban are saying on women's rights.

Lebanon deadly petrol tank blast sparks protest at PM-designate's home

Protesters attack the PM-designate's home after 27 people are killed while queueing for fuel.

Venezuela opposition politician Guevara freed after talks

Freddy Guevara is freed after two days of talks between opposition and government representatives.

Tokyo Paralympics: Spectators will not be allowed at the Games

Spectators will not be allowed at Paralympic Games events in Tokyo, organisers confirm.

Afghanistan: US takes control of Kabul airport to evacuate staff from country

Hundreds of locals rush to flee from the Taliban as US forces secure the airport to evacuate staff.

Japan's economy bounced back ahead of the Olympics, data shows

Analysts have warned recovery will be modest this quarter after a state of emergency was re-imposed.

Zambia election: Opposition candidate Hakainde Hichilema declared winner

Hakainde Hichilema wins a landslide victory over incumbent President Edgar Lungu.

There and back again: The epic adventures of China's wandering elephants

After a mammoth journey across the country the pack of pachyderms are finally heading home.

Would you let a robot lawyer defend you?

Why artificial intelligence is increasingly being used by the legal profession.

Afghanistan conflict: As Kabul falls, Biden backlash grows

Soldiers, statesmen and Afghan-Americans criticise the president - but how will the public react?

Nigeria's Kano state moves to ban mannequin heads on Islamic grounds

The Islamic police in Kano, Nigeria, say shop dummies with heads symbolise "idolatry" and are banned.

India's dancing cop becomes internet star

An Indian police officer has become a social media sensation because of his viral dance videos.

The zero-power sewage plant inspired by cows

Fifty sustainable sewage treatment plants have been built that work in similar way to a cow's stomach.

Why is Israel demolishing homes in East Jerusalem?

Israel says the homes were built without planning permission and it is to try to keep East Jerusalem in order.

Afghanistan: People flee Kabul as Taliban overrun cities

Roads out of the Afghan capital have been choked with traffic as people try to escape a Taliban takeover.

Canada election: Trudeau calls snap summer campaign

As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau goes to the polls two years early, here's what you need to know.

Roger Federer will be out 'for many months' as he prepares for further knee surgery

Tennis great Roger Federer says he will be sidelined for "many months" as he prepares to have further knee surgery.

Will Taliban take country back to past, asks John Simpson

What sort of nation will Afghanistan be after 2021, asks the BBC's world affairs editor John Simpson.

Afghanistan conflict: Taliban push into Kabul as Ghani flees

The militants are on the brink of taking total control now that US-led forces have all but withdrawn.

Haiti earthquake: Rescuers search rubble for survivors

More than 300 people are known to have died after a powerful earthquake hit the nation on Saturday.

ICYMI: Little Amal the walking refugee puppet and Perseid meteor shower

We also travel back to the Ice Age and to Sao Paulo's tallest building in this week's round-up.

Afghan conflict: Taliban enter outskirts of the capital Kabul

Negotiations are reportedly taking place for a peaceful transition of power as people flee the city.

Taliban spokesman tells BBC they are 'awaiting a peaceful transfer of power'

The BBC's Yalda Hakim was contacted by a spokesperson for the Taliban, Suhail Shaheen, live on air.

Germany football legend Muller dies aged 75

Bayern Munich and Germany legend Gerd Muller has died at the age of 75.

Haiti struck by deadly 7.2-magnitude earthquake

A powerful earthquake has struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti, killing at least 304 people.

Independence Day: Key takeaways from PM Modi's speech

India is celebrating 75 years of independence as it continues to battle coronavirus.

Afghan conflict: Taliban control all key cities except Kabul

The militant group takes the eastern city of Jalalabad without a fight as it closes in on the capital.

'This was a race and we lost': How US doctors really feel about Covid surge

Healthcare workers react to the growing rise of Covid patients in US hospitals despite vaccines.

Ethiopia: What do we know about aid going into Tigray?

Who's preventing desperately needed aid supplies reaching Ethiopia's Tigray region?

Sri Lankan teenager builds solar-powered tuk-tuk from scraps

Piranawan, 15, from Sri Lanka spent eight months of his Covid lockdown making his eco-friendly vehicle.

'How I found out my dad was a best-selling sex writer'

Sara Faith Alterman was always close to her father. Then she learned he was concealing a secret.

Who is TikTok’s masked vigilante?

Think you’re safe being an anonymous TikTok troll or cyber bully? Meet your worst nightmare.

'My night in notorious Nazi collaborator Quisling's cabin'

When Ben McPherson realised he could rent Vidkun Quisling's cabin, it struck him as weird. His Norwegian wife disagreed.

Polish law on property stolen by Nazis angers Israel

A new law will make it harder for people to recover property lost in World War Two.

Zambia election: President claims vote was not free and fair

Early results show Edgar Lungu, who is seeking a second term, trailing rival Hakainde Hichilema.

Rahul Gandhi: Twitter restores Congress party member accounts

Rahul Gandhi and opposition allies had been suspended for sharing photos of a rape victim's parents.

Japan floods: Residents rescued as torrential rain threatens homes

Nearly two million people have been urged to evacuate their homes amid heavy rainfall.

Afghan conflict: Taliban near Kabul and attack northern stronghold

Afghanistan's president addresses the nation as the militants seize more territory.

Major 7.2-magnitude earthquake strikes Haiti

A 7.2-magnitude quake hits the Caribbean nation, which is still recovering from the devastation of 2010.

Australia: New South Wales 'in worst ever Covid situation'

While case numbers are relatively low, the Australian state's premier has warned of a Covid surge.

Afghanistan in serious danger - President Ghani

Ashraf Ghani addresses the nation as the Taliban reportedly close in on the Afghan capital, Kabul.

Sarah Rainsford on Russia: 'I've been told I can't come back - ever'

The BBC's Sarah Rainsford, who is being expelled from Russia, speaks about the country she loves.

Japan rain: More than a million residents told to seek shelter

Some provinces are under evacuation alerts as experts warn of "unprecedented" rainfall.

Nanci Griffith: Folk and country singer-songwriter dies aged 68

The Grammy-winning artist was best known for her influential career in folk and country music.

Nicki Minaj and husband Kenneth Petty sued by sex assault victim

The woman claims the couple harassed her to try to make her recant accusations against Kenneth Petty.

Nicaragua: Police raid offices of La Prensa newspaper

It comes a day after La Prensa said authorities were withholding its supplies of paper and ink.

Myanmar: The woman who jumped to her death while fleeing police

Wai Wai Myint was among five people who jumped out of a building while fleeing a police raid in Myanmar.

Viewpoint: Why Twitter got it wrong in Nigeria

Complex issues have been raised about policing speech and censoring unpopular voices.

Afghans living under Taliban lament loss of freedoms

Afghans in Taliban-controlled provinces describe life under its fundamentalist Islamist rule.

Climate change: Does Germany produce double the UK's carbon emissions?

MP John Redwood claims that, on carbon emissions, Germany "puts out twice as much as we do". Is he right?

Afghanistan: Diplomats hasten exit as Taliban near Kabul

US troops arrive to help with evacuation efforts as militants seize a city an hour's drive from Kabul.

Afghanistan: Journalist Anisa Shaheed refuses to give in to Taliban

Anisa Shaheed fears women's freedoms will be curbed again if the Taliban come to power.

Afghan war: Kabul's young women plead for help as Taliban advance

They feel abandoned by the democratic world they thought they were part of, writes Yalda Hakim.

BBC condemns Russia's decision to not renew correspondent's visa

The decision to not renew Sarah Rainsford's visa is an "assault on media freedom", the corporation says.

US-Mexico border migrant detention levels reach 21-year high

Migrant numbers usually dip during the hot summer months, but July has continued an upward trend.

Four Florida educators died of Covid within day of each other, says union

A Florida teachers union announced the deaths with just days to go before the academic year begins.

Turkey floods: Death toll near Black Sea rises to 27

Flash floods in northern Turkey are the country's second natural disaster this month.

Kiwi Chow: The filmmaker who took Hong Kong's protests to Cannes

Kiwi Chow's film about the 2019 protests was screened in Cannes - and it has a controversial title.

Afghanistan: Desperation as thousands flee the Taliban

Yogita Limaye reports from a camp in Kabul where thousands who have been displaced by violence seek refuge.

Afghanistan: How the Taliban gained ground so quickly

The situation looks bleak for the Afghan government, but there may still be a chance of a stalemate.

The murderous crime wave sweeping Israel's Arabs

Many killings often go unsolved, with blame being put on the police.

Africa's week in pictures: 6-12 August 2021

A selection of the best photos from the African continent and beyond.

365 dates: Indian serial dater Sunder Ramu still looking to meet his target

Tamil actor Sunder Ramu's dates are not all romantic ones - and his aim is not just to find love.

The fiendish new trick cyber-criminals are using to evade capture

Bitcoin researchers discover a new darknet tool criminals are using to help launder their digital money.

Virtual reality: 'There's no max, there's no limit!'

"There's no max, there's no limit" to virtual reality, so is it the future of live music?

US census: Hispanic and Asian-American driving US population growth

Newly released data from the 2020 survey indicates slow population growth and a more multiracial US.

Wagner: Gaddafi's son faces arrest over Russian mercenaries

A warrant is issued against Saif al-Islam Gaddafi after a BBC investigation into mercenaries in Libya.

Life in a town taken by the Taliban in Afghanistan

BBC correspondent Secunder Kermani reports from a town in Afghanistan recently taken by the Taliban

Northern Turkey hit by severe flash flooding

Seventeen people have reportedly died, with more than 1,400 people evacuated from the areas affected.

UK and Russia ambassadors anger Iran by restaging WWII image

Iran condemns an "inappropriate" image of the UK and Russian ambassadors recreating a wartime image.

Messi: What are the PSG fan tokens given to the footballer?

Paris St-Germain has given Messi a "large number" of fan tokens as part of his welcome package.

Russia holds hypersonic flight expert in spy probe

Alexander Kuranov, detained by FSB agents, runs a team of pioneering spaceflight researchers.

Berlin embassy arrest: A case of old-school spying?

Why nothing in the case of the arrest of a man at the British Embassy in Berlin should surprise us.

Brazil Congress expels lawmaker over murder charges

Gospel singer turned lawmaker Flordelis de Souza is accused of ordering the murder of her husband.

Covid: Germany fears thousands got saline, not vaccine from nurse

More than 8,000 mostly elderly people are urged to get vaccinated again as a nurse is questioned.

Turkish capital reels from violent protests against Syrians

Protesters attacked houses owned by Syrians after tensions flared over reports of a fatal stabbing.

Picasso masterpieces to go on sale in blockbuster auction

Proceeds could reach $100m in what is thought to be the most valuable auction of the artist's works.

Tokyo Olympic gold medal replaced after first got bitten

The mayor of softball athlete Miu Goto's hometown prompted outrage after chomping on her medal.

Former K-pop star Seungri jailed for gambling and organising sex work

Seungri, whose former band Big Bang has sold 140 million records, is given a three-year prison term.

Wildfires rage in Algeria as heatwave hits North Africa

The blazes in the mountainous Kabylie region are some of the worst in the country's history.

China says crackdown on business to go on for years

The five-year plan comes soon after a major clampdown on several big technology and education firms.

Australian capital Canberra goes into snap lockdown

The one-week lockdown comes after Canberra recorded its first case of Covid-19 for more than a year.

Tourist helicopter crashes into Russian lake

A helicopter with 16 people on board has crashed into a lake in the far east of the country.

New Zealand borders to remain closed for rest of the year

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said her priority was vaccinating the population by the end of 2021.

How North American cities are bracing for more heatwaves

Local governments are getting creative when it comes to tackling frequent and extreme heat.

Shell pays $111m over 1970s oil spill in Nigeria

The payment marks the end of a long-running legal battle over a spill during the 1967-70 Biafran War.

Cryptocurrency heist hacker returns $260m in funds

The hacker behind the $600m Poly Network cryptocurrency heist has posted a Q&A on the blockchain.

Afghanistan war: Do the Taliban want to conquer or compromise?

The BBC speaks to two high profile figures in its chain of command who have very different messages.

The shopkeeper saving his island from wildfires

Spyros isn't a firefighter, but when his home was threatened with wildfires, he decided to take action.

Tokyo 2020: Meet Tokyo's youngest Olympic champion

After the sport's debut in the Olympics, athletes say people are seeing it in a whole new light.

Polish parliament passes controversial media bill

Opponents say the plans are an attempt to silence a TV channel critical of the government.

Italy may have registered Europe's hottest temperature on record

If the registered reading is verified, it will be hottest temperature ever recorded in Europe.

Hackers steal $600m in major cryptocurrency heist

Thousands of digital tokens have been stolen by hackers in one of the largest cryptocurrency heists.

Afghanistan war: Taliban back brutal rule as they strike for power

Afghanistan's ex-rulers still back brutal punishments as they continue a deadly advance towards power.

Tokyo 2020: Some Australian Olympians face 28-day quarantine

Some Australians Olympians are having to quarantine for 28 days after returning to their country from Tokyo

Google may cut pay of staff who work from home

The tech giant has developed a calculator that lets staff see the effects of remote working.

Afghanistan: The people fleeing the north for safety in Kabul

The Taliban has taken new territories in the north, forcing thousands out of their homes.

Algeria forest fires: At least 65 people killed as fires spread

At least 65 people have been killed as the fires continue to spread amid an intense heatwave.

Johnny Depp's film festival awards insulting, domestic abuse charities say

The actor, labelled a "wife beater" by The Sun, is to be honoured in Spain and the Czech Republic.

Instagram launches hate-speech 'limits' to hide abuse

Instagram launches a feature to automatically hide most comments during "spikes" of abuse.

Brazil's Bolsonaro defeated over printed ballot proposal

A plan by President Bolsonaro to switch to printed ballots fails to get enough support in Congress.

Afghanistan war: President Ghani rallies army in Taliban-besieged Mazar-i-Sharif

Ashraf Ghani flies to Mazar-i-Sharif in the north, as militants seize more provincial capitals.

Dozens trapped in massive India landslide

Falling boulders have buried many vehicles, including a bus carrying 40 people, reports say.

Zambia election: Young voters may hold the cards

Zambia will vote on Thursday amid growing concern about high unemployment and inflation.

The illegal gold mines killing rivers and livelihoods in Ghana

Sixty percent of Ghana's water bodies are now polluted, largely due to illegal mining operations.

Afghanistan war: Biden says he does not regret troop withdrawal

The US president says Afghan leaders need to fight for their nation, as more cities fall to the Taliban.

Facebook removes anti-vax influencer campaign

Facebook has removed hundreds of accounts linked to a anti-vaccine campaign operated from Russia.

Cuomo resigns as New York governor

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announces his resignation after sexual harassment inquiry.

Wagner: Scale of Russian mercenary mission in Libya exposed

A Samsung tablet obtained by the BBC unveils chilling details of how mercenaries fought in Libya’s war.

Algeria forest fires: Dozens killed in Kabylie region

Algeria is one of several Mediterranean countries to face devastating wildfires.

Poland's ruling coalition frays on eve of key media vote

The prime minister sacks his deputy, who opposed a controversial change to the country's media law.

I Am Legend screenwriter dismisses anti-vax claims based on film's plot

A sci-fi writer hits back at unfounded rumours that Covid jabs turn people into zombies.

Lithuania to build fence on Belarus border to stop migrants

Tensions are running high with Belarus after a surge of non-EU migrants into Lithuania.

Odeon owner AMC to accept payment in Bitcoin

Cinemagoers will be able to by tickets and popcorn using the cryptocurrency, says the US chain.

Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed calls on civilians to join Tigray war

Abiy Ahmed has asked all "capable" Ethiopians to join the fight against resurgent Tigrayan rebels.

Olivia Podmore: New Zealand Olympic cyclist dies aged 24

New Zealand Olympic cyclist Olivia Podmore dies at the age of 24, Cycling New Zealand announces.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo resigns

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo resigns after inquiry found he sexually harassed multiple women

Florida governor says no salaries for school leaders requiring masks

As cases rise across the US, Florida's governor argues school mask rules infringe on parent rights.

Infrastructure bill: $1tn for clean energy, internet, trains and more

The $1tn bill takes aim at issues from buckling bridges to global warming and remote working.

Lithuania blames Belarus for migrant crisis

Over 4,000 people are reported to have crossed in Lithuania in recent months.

North Korea leaves hotline with South unanswered during military drills

Tensions have risen in the Korean peninsula as South Korea and the US hold joint military drills.

Greece fires: Foreign teams join battle on Evia island

Several European countries are helping Greece to tackle the blazes ravaging parched forests.

Anger as Nigerian diplomat manhandled in Indonesia

Nigeria demands answers after an official's mistreatment at the hands of immigration officers.

Afghanistan: Taliban seizure will challenge West - Gen Sir Nick Carter

The chief of the defence staff on difficulties ahead if the Taliban illegitimately seize control.

Lionel Messi agrees Paris St-Germain deal after Barcelona exit - Guillem Balague

Lionel Messi agrees a two-year deal with Paris St-Germain to join the French club, says BBC Sport columnist Guillem Balague.

China elephants: 150,000 evacuated from path of trekking herd

The herd is finally headed for home after an extraordinary 17-month migration in Yunnan province.

Artificial Intelligence may diagnose dementia in a day

The system being tested should spot the disease long before symptoms or obvious brain signs develop.

Malaysian singer dies of Covid days after giving birth

Siti Sarah Raisuddin never got to hold her newborn son, who was delivered via a three-hour surgery.

Apple defends new photo scanning child protection tech

The tech giant has insisted that its new technology will not be used to spy on its users.

Mexican drug cartel threatens to kill TV reporter

Men claiming to represent Mexico's most powerful drug cartel accused the anchor of unfair coverage.

Virginia Giuffre: Prince Andrew accuser files civil lawsuit in US

Virginia Giuffre alleges the Duke of York sexually assaulted her when she was 17 years old.

Olympic medals: An alternative table - with US 15th

How would the medals table look if population and wealth was taken into account?

Greece fires: PM apologises as blazes rage on Evia island

Kyriakos Mitsotakis says Greece is facing an unprecedented natural disaster, as public anger grows.

Biden's plan to tackle racism with roads

An infrastructure package that seeks to address inequality gets a mixed reception on the ground.

Why South Korean women are reclaiming their short hair

Thousands proudly show off their short hair after an Olympic athlete is criticised for her haircut.

Fashion photographer: 'The world doesn't see this part of Afghanistan'

Fatimah Hossaini is a fashion photographer in Afghanistan and wants to use her work to help women be seen.

Andrew Cuomo: Time's Up leader resigns over ties to governor

Roberta Kaplan was accused of trying to discredit a woman who said Mr Cuomo had harassed her.

Friends narrowly escape flooding elevator

Three residents were caught in a storm surge in Omaha, Nebraska, and recorded their ordeal.

Afghanistan: Why is there a war?

As foreign forces pull out after 20 years of war, what did it achieve and what happens next?

R. Kelly: Jury selection begins in singer's sex trafficking trial

The R&B singer appears in court in New York, as potential jurors are questioned ahead of his trial.

Jeffrey Epstein victims' fund awards $121m to survivors

About 150 people who were sexually abused by the disgraced New York financier have received payouts.

Climate change: At-risk nations fear extinction after IPCC report

The most vulnerable developing countries plead for action after a stark warning from a UN panel.

Lukashenko: 'You can choke on your sanctions in the UK'

The UK and US are tightening sanctions on Belarus, hitting economic sectors.

Suspect in Nantes cathedral fire held over French priest's killing

French police also suspect the Rwandan man of starting a fire that ravaged Nantes cathedral in 2020.

Shishov case: Belarus leader Lukashenko denies link to dissident's death

Alexander Lukashenko insists he had nothing to do with a suspicious hanging in Ukraine last week.

Andrew Cuomo: Accuser Brittany Commisso says governor broke law

Brittany Commisso speaks out for the first time about alleged groping incidents with New York governor.

We For India: Stars unite to help Covid relief work in India

Ed Sheeran, Annie Lennox, Mick Jagger and Bollywood actors will join forces for livestreamed event.

Climate change: Five things we have learned from the IPCC report

What are the key takeaways from the IPCC new study on the science of climate change?

Thunberg calls out climate impact of fashion brands in Vogue interview

Many companies are only pretending to care about the climate, the activist tells Vogue Scandinavia.

Andrew Cuomo: Top aide to governor resigns amid scandal

Melissa DeRosa worked as a senior aide to Andrew Cuomo, who has been accused of sexual harassment.

'Smallest baby at birth' home after 13 months in hospital

Kwek Yu Xuan weighed only 212g - the weight of an apple - when she was born in Singapore last year.

Alibaba to sack manager accused of rape, according to memo seen by BBC

The move comes after a woman's allegations of sexual assault went viral on Chinese social media.

Thailand man charged over death of Swiss tourist near waterfall

The 27-year-old man has been charged with murdering the 57-year-old woman.

Climate change: UN to reveal landmark IPCC report findings

The report will be a "massive wake-up call" to governments to cut emissions, environmental experts say.

Dixie Fire: Firefighters tackles historic California wildfire

The Dixie Fire has burned through more than 463,000 acres and could take weeks to extinguish.

Greece wildfires: Strong winds push flames towards villages

Greece is experiencing its most severe heatwave in 30 years with temperatures reaching 45C (113F).

Golfer Kim scores 13 on par three hole

Finding water five times on one hole saw South Korea's Kim Si-woo score 13 on a par three to record the highest score on the PGA Tour since 1983.

Greece wildfires: 'It's like a horror movie but it's real life'