Australia news live: safety in childcare centres top priority when parliament resumes; Husic warns antisemitism definition curbs freedom of speech

UK inflation has climbed to its highest level in nearly 18 months, driven by stubbornly high food prices and only a modest drop in fuel costs. Basically, everyday essentials are still getting pricier, and while fuel isn’t as expensive as before, it’s not enough to offset the overall squeeze on wallets.

Editor’s Note: Inflation isn’t just a number—it’s a real headache for households trying to stretch their budgets. With food costs leading the charge, people are feeling the pinch at the grocery store, and even small relief in other areas isn’t making much of a dent. This could push the Bank of England to rethink interest rates, which affects everything from mortgages to business loans. In short: more financial stress ahead.

A tragic incident in Gaza’s Khan Younis left at least 20 people dead during an aid distribution, with conflicting reports about the cause—some say it was a stampede, while health officials blame suffocation. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an Israeli-backed logistics group, claims most victims were trampled, with one fatally stabbed.

Editor’s Note: This story highlights the chaos and desperation in Gaza as civilians struggle to access basic aid, with deadly consequences. It underscores how the breakdown of order—whether from overcrowding, violence, or logistical failures—can turn a lifeline into a tragedy. For readers, it’s a grim reminder of the human cost of the ongoing crisis and the urgent need for safer aid delivery.

Australia's Education Minister Jason Clare is frustrated by the slow, piecemeal release of information about childcare centers linked to an accused Melbourne paedophile. As the list of affected centers grows, Clare is pushing for a national database to track childcare workers, arguing it would prevent such delays and improve safety.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just bureaucratic frustration—it's about protecting kids. The lack of a centralized system means parents and centers are left scrambling for updates, while a national database could help stop dangerous gaps in oversight. It’s a wake-up call for better safeguards in childcare.

Southern Water is imposing a hosepipe ban starting Monday for around 1 million people in Hampshire and the entire Isle of Wight. This follows similar restrictions by other UK water companies as four regions are officially declared to be in drought.

Editor’s Note: Water shortages are becoming a serious issue in parts of England, and these bans signal just how dry things have gotten. For residents, it means no watering gardens, washing cars, or filling paddling pools with hosepipes—just one of the ways climate change and extreme weather are starting to hit home. If more areas follow suit, it could mean a summer of tough restrictions ahead.

Donald Trump walked back his earlier suggestion that Ukraine should aim long-range missiles at Moscow, now stating clearly, "No, he should not target Moscow." Meanwhile, he reiterated calls for Putin to negotiate a peace deal soon. The article also notes that Patriot missile systems from Germany are already en route to Ukraine.

Editor’s Note: Trump's shifting statements on Ukraine reflect the delicate balance of US foreign policy—supporting Kyiv without escalating tensions with Russia. The delivery of advanced missile systems signals continued Western backing, but mixed messages from leaders could muddy the waters. For readers, it’s a reminder of how volatile diplomacy remains in this conflict.