BBC News Briefing

20 March, 2026

Sofia has long brown hair and brown eyes and is wearing a green top.

Sofia Lotto Persio

Hello. Israel has hit Iran's capital Tehran with air strikes as Iranians mark Persian new year, Nowruz. BBC Persian's Ghoncheh Habibiazad hears from Iranians about the muted tone of this year's festivity. In the US, technology reporter Christine Ro explores whether it's possible to build a plastic-free home. And finally, watch the winner of a sled dog race cross the finish line.

TOP OF THE AGENDA

Dark shadow of war hangs over festivities

Several people walk past a market stall in Tehran that sells flowers and plants.

Some markets remain open in Tehran despite the air strikes. Credit: EPA/Shutterstock

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will "hold off" attacks on Iranian gas fields following a request from US President Donald Trump. But the "dark shadow of war" hangs over the Middle East region during what should be a time of celebration, writes security correspondent Frank Gardner. Friday is the first day of Eid Al-Fitr, a three-day Islamic holiday marking the end of the month of Ramadan. Iranians would usually be celebrating Nowruz, a traditional festival that marks the start of the new year. But, as they tell Ghoncheh Habibiazad, this year's event will be very different.

What Iranians are saying

Strait of Hormuz: A BBC Verify analysis shows which ships have been able to get through the strait. Explore the data.

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Anti-government protests: Iran has executed three men, including a teenager, accused of killing police officers in January, state media say.

In Lebanon: Watch the moment a missile struck behind a journalist who was reporting live. The crew has been treated in hospital.

WORLD HEADLINES

A Danish air force transport plane and military personnel are seen in Greenland's capital Nuuk. Photo: 14 January 2026

Denmark 'readied for US invasion of Greenland'

Danish broadcaster DK reported that Danish soldiers flew to Greenland in January prepared to blow up key runways.

What to know >

Anthony Albanese sits in a mosque wearing a black suit and tie. He has short grey hair and wears glasses.

Australia PM heckled at Sydney mosque

Anthony Albanese was visiting one of the country's largest mosques for an event marking the end of Ramadan.

Watch the video >

A couple in black coats stand in front of a car with a Norwegian flag waving in the foreground

Norway crown princess to address Epstein links

A much-anticipated interview on her contacts with the late sex offender is due to be broadcast by NRK TV on Friday.

More details >

Taylor Frankie Paul has long brown hair and brown eyes. She is wearing a beige gown and is attending an Oscar-related event/.

Taylor Frankie Paul's Bachelorette season pulled

The decision comes after footage emerged appearing to show the reality star in an altercation with her ex-partner.

Read more >

A Semiquincentennial commemorative gold coin design featuring U.S. President Donald Trump.

Trump's hand-picked panel approves gold coin

The 24-karat gold coin will mark America's 250th birthday, and portrays Trump with his fists pressed against a desk.

What happened >

NEWS FROM THE UK

End of the road: The British Army is to start retiring its Land Rover fleet after 70 years of service, the Ministry of Defence has announced.

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Raynor Winn: The Salt Path author published a book in 2012 under a different name, despite winning a prize for best non-fiction debut in 2018.

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Tourist magnet: The British Museum in London has lost the title of most visited attraction in the UK. Find out which one tops the latest ranking.

BEYOND THE HEADLINES

Is it possible to build a plastic-free home?

Wearing sunglasses and holding her black dog, Erica Cirino sits on the wooden porch of her home.

The siding of Erica's home is made of wood and not PVC, while the roof has metal rather than vinyl covering. Credit: Erica Cirino

Avoiding plastic may feel like a logistical and financial burden when building a house. However, advocates of alternative materials argue that they can last longer and be better for residents' health, making them cost-effective in the long run. Christine Ro finds out the top tips to build a low-plastic house.