*) Global coronavirus death toll crosses 300,000

The number of people who died of Covid-19 around the world has crossed the 300,000-mark, with more than 4.5 million infected.

The US remains the hardest hit, with more than 1.4 million cases and over 86,000 fatalities.

The real global death toll from the coronavirus is believed to be far higher than current compiled figures.

*) US health official warns of ‘darkest winter in modern history’

Whistleblower Rick Bright has warned that the US could face “the darkest winter in modern history” if the virus rebounds as the country reopens.

Bright warned the US lacks a comprehensive battle plan against Covid-19 in areas including masks, testing, treatments and vaccines.

The government’s former vaccine scientist testified before Congress, pointing out that there was no coherent strategy to get supplies to where they’re most needed.

*) Libyan army inflicts losses on Haftar militia

Libya's army has killed and injured a large number of militiamen loyal to eastern-based warlord Khalifa Haftar as part of Operation Peace Storm.

The operation was launched on March 26 to counter attacks on the capital, Tripoli.

The army also destroyed equipment used by Haftar’s militia, including four aircraft, a helicopter and two drones, according to information obtained by Anadolu news agency.

*) Coronavirus could infect more than 200M in Africa – WHO

A study by the World Health Organization has revealed that Covid-19 could kill 150,000 people in Africa in one year unless urgent action is taken.

The study, published in the journal BMJ Global Health, also showed that nearly a quarter of a billion people in the continent will be infected by the virus.

The study cites concerns over increasingly overwhelmed healthcare services in the world’s poorest continent.

And finally…

*) UK govt green lights English football to return in June

The UK government is “opening the door” for English Premier League to return in June.

Britain’s Culture and Sport Secretary Oliver Dowden says football authorities will finalise the details under the government’s guidance.

Matches have been suspended since mid-March due to the Covid-19 pandemic.