Simulated robot performs realistic acrobatics and other news

A lack of power and funding has limited the World Health Organization’s (WHO) capacity to deal with pandemics, the co-chair of a panel looking at the response to the coronavirus pandemic has said. Helen Clark, from the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response, told BBC World News that the WHO was caught in the…

Australia’s state of New South Wales has passed its 70% vaccination target, resulting in Sydney easing its 107-day lockdown. Non-essential shops, restaurants, bars, hair and beauty salons have reopened after being forced shut for almost four months. Patrons lined up across the city for the midnight reopening, excited to enjoy their new freedoms. Video by…

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect early on Friday. Both Israel and Hamas have claimed victory in the recent conflict. But it may prove “difficult” for Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to label the military operation a political success, says former Israeli deputy foreign minister Danny Ayalon. It was a case of…

Foreign countries should stop encouraging Afghans to leave as the country needs their talents, a Taliban spokesman has said. Zabihullah Mujahid said Afghan nationals should head back to their homes, jobs and normal life, as there was “no danger” to them, adding: “Let’s live together.” He told a press conference that “war for us has…

The UK, US and Australia have announced a special security pact to share advanced technologies including nuclear-powered submarine know-how. The partnership, labelled Aukus, aims to “defend our shared interests in the Indo-Pacific”, the leaders of the three nations said in a joint statement. US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and UK PM…

Legendary anchor Katty Kay signs off from the BBC for the final time.