Catch up with the most important stories from around Europe and beyond this May 9th, 2026 - latest news, breaking news, World, Business, Entertainment, Politics, Culture, Travel.
A tanker traveling off the coast of Oman in the Strait of Hormuz caught fire Tuesday after being struck by an unknown projectile. UKMTO reported the incident near Limah, Oman. Iranian state TV cited anonymous sources implying Tehran's involvement, though no official claim was made.
Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals, with goals from Charles De Ketelaere and Romelu Lukaku. Controversy arose over Folarin Balogun's red card suspension being lifted. Spain also advanced, beating Portugal 1-0, marking Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance.
Jim O'Neill, an economist advising Andy Burnham, has criticized the UK's long-standing reliance on the US, urging wider trade with countries like China. O'Neill, a former Conservative Treasury minister, believes the Trump administration's erratic behavior is a wake-up call for Britain to diversify its international partnerships.
Marine Le Pen awaits a Paris court ruling on Tuesday that will determine if she can run for French president in 2027 or faces a five-year ban. The decision could impact her party's chances, with party president Jordan Bardella being a potential substitute.
Jordan Bardella, Marine Le Pen's chosen successor, is under legal scrutiny as police investigate irregular expenses within the National Rally's former European Parliament group. The probe into alleged misuse of €4.3 million and nearly €280,000 in new group spending could impact the party's image ahead of the 2027 French presidential election.
Marine Le Pen awaits a verdict on her appeal against an embezzlement conviction and a ban from public office. The ruling at 1:30 p.m. will determine if she can run for French president, with party leader Jordan Bardella as a potential 'Plan B'.
