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Iraq's national football team, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia, has made history by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026 for the first time in nearly 40 years. Their 2-1 victory over Bolivia on Tuesday night secured their spot as the 48th and final team to qualify.The team's achievement is particularly significant given the current conflict in the region, with Iraq being drawn into the hostilities between the US, Israel, and Iran. Despite the challenges, including sporadic gunfire and economic difficulties, supporters flooded Baghdad's main shopping areas at dawn to celebrate their team's triumph.“This victory is incredibly precious to us, despite the war raging,” said Ahmed, a 22-year-old supporter, highlighting the unifying effect of the team's success across different sects in Iraq. The jubilant crowd brought traffic to a standstill, with thousands waving Iraqi flags and celebrating into the night.The Iraqi team's journey to the World Cup was not without its challenges, with some players forced to travel partially overland due to suspended air travel caused by the conflict. However, Ali al-Hamadi and Aymen Hussein each scored a goal in the memorable win, securing their place in World Cup Group I against France, Senegal, and Norway.In celebration of their victory, Iraqi leaders congratulated the team and promised financial bonuses for the win. A two-day holiday was also declared, with state television broadcasting nationwide celebrations.

SpaceX has submitted paperwork for an initial public offering that could debut as early as June or July, targeting a capital raise of $75 billion. If the market pricing aligns with analysts’ forecasts, the launch could lift the company’s valuation to nearly $1.5 trillion, roughly double its worth in December. Such a valuation would place founder Elon Musk on a clear trajectory toward becoming the planet’s first trillionaire, a milestone that would eclipse the $25.6 billion record set by Saudi Aramco’s 2019 IPO. Renaissance Capital’s data analyst Angelo Bochanis told Reuters that, much like Tesla, SpaceX’s market price will hinge on investor confidence in Musk’s long‑term vision. "Investors are clamouring for any exposure to SpaceX," he added. Despite Musk’s controversial public persona and his involvement in multiple high‑profile ventures, industry experts remain bullish. Kat Liu, vice‑president at IPOX, noted that SpaceX is "operationally mature, technologically ahead in several key areas, and profitable," providing a solid foundation for a public listing. The company’s recent merger with Musk’s artificial‑intelligence startup xAI and the continued dominance of its Starlink satellite network—now the world’s largest satellite communications platform—have reinforced investor interest. SpaceX’s ambitious roadmap includes a lunar base and a crewed Mars mission, though timelines remain uncertain. Musk has previously admitted a "50‑50 chance" of delivering an uncrewed Starship to Mars by the end of 2026. Financial data firm Pitchbook estimates the IPO could nearly double the company’s market cap, underscoring the scale of potential investor demand. If realized, the offering would not only reshape the space‑tech sector but also set a new benchmark for public market fundraising.

Iran launched a fresh wave of missiles toward Israel in what appears to be a direct response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent televised address. In that speech, Trump asserted that Washington had effectively destroyed the Iranian military and was on the brink of fulfilling its war goals in the region. The presidential remarks came just hours after Trump claimed that Iran had asked for a ceasefire. Tehran promptly denied the request, emphasizing that it had not sought any pause in hostilities. This escalation underscores the volatile dynamics of the Middle East, where diplomatic rhetoric from Washington can quickly translate into kinetic actions on the ground. The missile barrage not only heightens the risk of broader conflict between Iran and Israel but also places the United States in a precarious position, having publicly declared a near‑victory over Tehran while its ally faces direct attacks. Analysts note that Trump's statements may be aimed at bolstering domestic support by portraying a decisive end to a protracted regional struggle. However, the Iranian denial of a ceasefire request suggests that diplomatic channels remain strained, and the likelihood of further military exchanges is increasing. Regional observers warn that continued missile exchanges could destabilize already fragile peace efforts, potentially drawing in additional actors and complicating any forthcoming negotiations.

Spain's coastal towns are taking proactive measures to prepare for tsunamis, a threat that has been historically underestimated. The town of Chipiona, located on the Atlantic coast, has become Spain's first 'tsunami-ready' community, recognized by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO in 2024. Chipiona's mayor, Luis Mario Aparcero Fernández, emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education in tsunami preparedness. The town conducts annual evacuation drills, and information boards have been installed to inform residents and tourists about what to do in case of a tsunami. The town's tsunami-ready status is part of a larger regional goal to establish 25 tsunami-ready communities by the end of this year and prepare all communities at risk by 2030. Jorge Macías, a tsunami modeller at the University of Málaga, stresses that preparedness is key, as the Mediterranean will experience a tsunami of at least a metre in height in the next 30 to 50 years with '100% certainty'. Spain's national tsunami warning system can detect an offshore earthquake and compute an initial assessment within three to five minutes. However, in the Mediterranean, this may leave only minutes to evacuate. Juan Vicente Cantavella, the director of the National Tsunami Warning System in Spain, notes that tsunami wave height is often underestimated, and even small waves can cause significant damage. Despite progress in some areas, much of the Costa del Sol remains in the earlier stages of planning, with sparse public signage and unclear evacuation routes. Miriam García, a geomorphologist and urban planner, highlights the vulnerability of Spain's Mediterranean coast, which was built without considering tsunami risks. The article concludes that preparedness is not about predicting the day and time of a tsunami, but about choosing not to be surprised when nature eventually repeats what history and geology say it will.

A blinking fault light on NASA’s Orion spacecraft signalled a malfunction in the Universal Waste Management System (UWMS) just as the historic Artemis II crew began their 10‑day lunar‑orbit mission. Mission control reported the issue was resolved within minutes, stating: “Happy to report that toilet is go for use. We do recommend letting the system get to operating speed before donating fluid, and then letting it run a little bit after donation.”The $30 million (≈£22.6 million) UWMS, years in development, is hailed as a breakthrough in deep‑space sanitation, dramatically improving on the primitive setups used during Apollo. Back then, astronauts used a condom‑like urine collector and a bagged solid‑waste system that was prone to leaks and even produced “a turd floating through the air,” according to mission transcripts.Orion now features a private toilet cubicle – the first of its kind on a space shuttle – accessed through a floor hatch beside the main entry hatch. Handrails and foot tethers keep the crew anchored while inside.“We’re pretty fortunate as a crew to get a toilet with a door on this tiny spacecraft,” noted Jeremy Hansen of the Canadian Space Agency in a pre‑launch video. “The one place during the mission where we can go and actually feel like we’re alone for a moment.”The system uses a funnel attached to a hose for urine and a small seat for solid waste. Because everything floats, faeces are suctioned into a sealed bag at the bowl’s base and then compressed into a canister. The suction is loud enough that the cubicle is insulated and crew members must wear ear protection while using it.On longer stays, such as ISS missions, astronauts now recycle almost all liquid waste, turning urine and sweat into drinkable water. For the short Artemis II flight, urine will be vented daily and solid waste stored for disposal after return to Earth.Beyond comfort, the upgraded toilet is a mission‑critical component for NASA’s goal of a permanent lunar presence. Sustainable waste handling prevents health risks and avoids contaminating the pristine space environment with Earth microbes. As historian David Munns explained, “Actually thinking about not only toilets but the entire life‑support systems is one of the foundations of long‑term living in space.”

French giants OL Lyonnes have booked their place in the Women's Champions League semi-finals, where they will face Arsenal. This comes after a convincing 4-0 win over Wolfsburg in extra time, securing a 4-1 aggregate victory. The result ensures a repeat of last season's semi-final, which Arsenal won 5-3 on aggregate. OL Lyonnes, the record eight-time European champions, will enter the match with confidence after their impressive display against Wolfsburg. Despite Wolfsburg holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg, OL Lyonnes fought back with Lily Yohannes's early deflected strike drawing the teams level. The French side dominated the game, forcing 19 corners, but had to wait until the 102nd minute for Melchie Dumornay to score the decisive goal. Damaris Egurrola's header and Tabitha Chawinga's late finish further solidified OL Lyonnes's control over the game, reflecting the 4-0 victory on the night. In another match, Barcelona thrashed Real Madrid 12-2 on aggregate, showcasing their strong form ahead of the semi-finals. They will face Bayern Munich, who eliminated Manchester United, in the next round. The first legs of the semi-finals are scheduled between April 24 and 26, with the second legs taking place between May 1 and 3. The final will be held in Oslo on May 23.

Recent weeks have been a test of resolve for Chelsea. A humiliating 3‑0 loss to Paris Saint‑Germain in the Champions League last‑16, coupled with a slide in the Premier League, has left the Blues scrambling for answers. Adding to the chaos, two of the squad’s most influential players have gone public. Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández hinted at a summer move, saying, "I really like Madrid, it’s similar to Buenos Aires," while left‑back Marc Cucurella told The Athletic that the club is paying the price for its inexperience and that the PSG defeat has left the dressing‑room "discouraged". These remarks strike at the heart of Chelsea’s BlueCo‑era project, which has relied on signing young talent to build a sustainable future. Critics point out that, unlike Manchester United’s Class of ’92, Chelsea lacks seasoned veterans to mentor the newcomers. The debate resurfaced when Liam Rosenior was appointed head coach in January, with the club’s hierarchy insisting that a long‑term contract (six‑and‑a‑half years) will give him time to nurture the squad. Leadership dynamics are also under scrutiny. Fernández, who wears the captain’s armband in Reece James’s absence, publicly criticised goalkeeper Filip Jörgensen after a costly error against PSG – a move many view as inconsistent with the culture of a united dressing‑room. Financially, Chelsea has tried to balance ambition with prudence. Fernández’s contract runs until 2032 and is heavily incentive‑based, a strategy designed to keep the wage bill in check. Nonetheless, the club posted a **pre‑tax loss of £262.4 million** for the 2024‑25 season, the largest in English football history, raising questions about the sustainability of its recruitment model. There have been moments of optimism. Chelsea lifted the Club World Cup after beating PSG last summer, but the departure of former coach Enzo Maresca in early January – allegedly after talks with Manchester City figures – destabilised the squad. Players like Fernández and Cucurella recall the impact of that exit on team morale. Despite recent setbacks, the club remains confident in Rosenior’s vision, extending Cucurella’s deal last summer and securing long‑term contracts for key figures such as Reece James, Cole Palmer, and Moisés Caicedo. The Blues still have a realistic chance of qualifying for next season’s Champions League and host Port Vale in the FA Cup quarter‑finals. Looking ahead, sources suggest a possible shift in recruitment strategy, moving away from an exclusive focus on raw talent toward a blend of proven Premier League players and selective signings. While Fernández’s desire for a better contract could spark a transfer saga – with Madrid reportedly unwilling to meet a £100 million fee – the club must decide whether retaining a player whose ambitions no longer align with its project is worth the risk. In sum, Chelsea faces a pivotal moment: restore on‑field performance, manage a record financial loss, and convince both fans and players that the youth‑centred blueprint can deliver the trophies promised under the “trust the process” mantra.

Shoaib Bashir, a 22-year-old off-spinner, has joined Derbyshire Cricket Club on a two-year deal, marking a fresh start in his cricket career. Bashir, who was overlooked by England for the Ashes despite two years of investment, aims to secure regular game time and work with renowned coach Mickey Arthur.Bashir's goals remain unchanged, with his sights set on winning back his Test spot with England. He believes working with Arthur, who has coached Pakistan, South Africa, and Australia, will be instrumental in his development. Arthur, 57, is known for his enthusiasm for the game and his ability to nurture young talent.“Every time you wear an England shirt it’s the most special thing,” Bashir said. “I was more than happy just observing, watching, learning so much in Australia. I’m only 22 so I’ve still got to take in a lot of information.”Arthur praised Bashir, calling him an “exciting talent” with a bright future ahead. “I think he’s such an exciting talent. For a guy that challenges both edges of the bat, and being only 22, it’s a fantastic package,” Arthur said.Bashir has played 19 Test matches, taking 68 wickets at 39, but has only played 18 games in the County Championship. He is eager to make an impact with Derbyshire and prove himself as a valuable asset to the England team.

New research by Cleanview and a subsequent confirmation from Google reveal that the tech giant is collaborating with Crusade Energy to develop a 933‑megawatt natural‑gas power plant in the sparsely populated Armstrong County of the Texas panhandle. The facility will serve the Goodnight AI‑focused datacenter campus, signaling a notable departure from Google’s long‑standing clean‑energy narrative.The plant, slated for off‑grid operation, is intended to power at least two buildings on the Goodnight site. Satellite imagery commissioned by Cleanview shows construction already under way, following a permit application filed in January.According to the 465‑page permit filing, the plant could emit as much as 4.5 million tons of carbon dioxide per year—roughly the same amount released annually by the entire city of San Francisco. This emission level underscores the environmental stakes of the project.Cleanview founder Michael Thomas described the venture as “one of the first direct investments in fossil‑fuel infrastructure” he has seen from Google, suggesting a strategic pivot away from the company’s historic climate leadership.When queried, Google spokesperson Chrissy Moy did not deny the partnership but clarified that “we don’t have a contract in place for the plant in Texas.” She noted that negotiations are ongoing and pointed to a separate wind‑farm partnership with Serena Energy in the region. Crusoe Energy declined to comment.The Texas project is Google’s third known involvement with gas‑fuel facilities in recent months. Earlier in October, the company announced an agreement to purchase power from a gas plant in Illinois, and documents obtained in May revealed exploratory talks on a large‑scale gas project in Nebraska.Despite the shift, Google maintains that natural gas does not conflict with its climate objectives. The firm argues it is moving from a strategy of buying carbon credits to one of “building the grid” to secure carbon‑free energy for its operations.At a recent energy conference in Houston, Google’s head of advanced energy, Michael Terrell, declined to elaborate on how natural gas aligns with the company’s sustainability roadmap.From carbon‑free promises to “climate moonshots”Google has long positioned itself as a climate leader, setting a 2020 goal to achieve net‑zero carbon emissions across all operations by 2030 and investing heavily in wind, solar, geothermal and nuclear projects. However, the rapid expansion of AI workloads has strained those commitments.The 2023 sustainability report noted that Google was no longer “maintaining operational carbon neutrality,” and a 2024 update reported a 48 % rise in greenhouse‑gas emissions since 2019, driven largely by datacenter energy demand.By 2025, the company reframed its emissions targets as “climate moonshots,” acknowledging the growing complexity of meeting its 2030 ambitions amid AI‑driven uncertainties.Google is not alone in this trend. Competitors such as Meta, Amazon and Microsoft have also turned to natural‑gas‑powered facilities to meet the soaring energy needs of their AI infrastructures, highlighting a broader industry tension between rapid AI deployment and climate pledges.Thomas of Cleanview summed up the situation: “The race to build AI is creating a new tension with climate goals that these hyperscalers have long championed.”