This undated photo provided on March 29, 2026 by the North Korean government, shows what it says a solid-fuel engine test at an undisclosed place in North Korea. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. Korean language watermark on image as provided by source reads: "KCNA" which is the abbreviation for Korean Central News Agency. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP)

North Korea tests engine for long-range missile

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea reports that Kim Jong Un watched a test of an upgraded solid-fuel engine for missiles that can reach the U.S. mainland. State media say the test boosts the country’s strategic strike capability. Experts say the claim may be exaggerated because key data is missing. Some say the program faces delays or seeks a better design. Solid-fuel engines help missiles move fast and hide before launch. North Korea has pushed hard to expand its nuclear arsenal since Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with U.S. President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019.

Egypt orders early closing to save oil

CAIRO (AP) — Egypt is imposing early closing times for shops, cafes and restaurants to cut oil use as energy prices surge during the war. The rules were enacted nationwide Saturday and are forcing most businesses to shut by 9 p.m. for a month. The government is also dimming streetlights and advertising. Offices in the capital close by 6 p.m. Some civil servants work from home one day a week. Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly says Egypt faces soaring import costs for fuel. Business owners warn the change crushes peak hours and threatens jobs. Tourist areas are exempt.

Isreali police prevent Catholic celebration in Jerusalem

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli police have blocked top Catholic leaders from entering Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre for a private Palm Sunday Mass. The U.S., France, and Italy condemned the decision. On Sunday, the church stayed closed under Iran war security rules after missiles hit the city. The Latin Patriarchate called the move unreasonable and says it harmed freedom of worship. Police cited safety risks in the Old City and poor access for emergency vehicles. Church officials say they have held small private Masses since late February. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would try to partially open the church in the coming days.

New Disney CEO opens World of Frozen in Paris

CHESSY, France (AP) — Disneyland Paris has opened a huge new “Frozen” land as the centerpiece of a major park makeover. Disney unveiled World of Frozen on Sunday and renamed Walt Disney Studios Park as Disney Adventure World. The opening gives new CEO Josh D’Amaro his first big international moment since taking the top job in March. The expansion is the biggest in the resort’s 34-year history. In the park, guests ride Frozen Ever After, meet Anna and Elsa, see new attractions, dining and a lagoon show.

Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of shelling

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Afghanistan’s government has accused Pakistan’s military of shelling the outskirts of an eastern Afghan city. The Afghan deputy government spokesman said Sunday that initial figures show that one person was killed and 16 others were wounded on the outskirts of the city of Asadabad in Kunar Province. It’s the latest episode of renewed fighting between the two countries. The fighting erupted in late February. It has been the most severe between Afghanistan and Pakistan in decades. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of providing a safe haven for militants who carry out attacks inside Pakistan especially for the Pakistani Taliban. Afghanistan’s government denies the allegation.

Deadly paramilitary attack in Sudan reported

CAIRO (AP) — A Sudanese medical group says paramilitaries have attacked the city of Dilling in South Kordofan, killing at least 14 people, including children. The Sudan Doctors Network says at least 23 more people are wounded. The Rapid Support Forces and allied rebels launch the assault on Saturday, but the military says it fought them off. Dilling had until recently been under siege for more than two years, with supplies cut and frequent bombing. Doctors warn the city could face violence like el-Fasher in Darfur. Sudan’s war has killed tens of thousands since 2023.