Daily News Brief: Recent Episodes
TRT World
A summary of today's impactful news stories from around the world hand-picked by our staff at TRT World.
World marks two years of Israeli genocide as Gaza reels from devastationHamas, mediators end Gaza talks in 'positive atmosphere'Syria announces results of first parliamentary elections since Assad’s ousterMaduro says Venezuela stopped terrorists targeting US embassyUS Senate rejects Republican funding bill as shutdown continues
Hamas delegation arrives in Egypt for Gaza ceasefire talksGaza media office: 20,000 children, 12,500 women killed by IsraelHamas denies agreeing to disarm under Trump’s Gaza planPKK/YPG terror group targets civilians in northern Syria Gaza-bound flotilla 545 kilometres from enclave — Organisers
- Global Sumud Flotilla activists arrive in Istanbul to warm reception Greta Thunberg tortured, forced to kiss Israeli flag: activist Hamas accuses Israel of lying about its Gaza withdrawal after killing 70 Pakistan warns India over provocation risking nuclear escalation Hamas has proven it is ready for peace in region: Erdogan
- Hamas nods to Trump's Gaza plan, agreeing to free captives International reactions pour in after Hamas supports Trump’s plan Israel strikes Gaza despite Trump’s halt orders US targets suspected drug traffickers in tense Venezuela waters India will host Taliban minister in first high-level visit
Israel seizes Gaza flotilla, detains 450 activistsHamas weighs Trump’s Gaza ceasefire planErdogan marks recapture of Jerusalem anniversaryWhite House pressures top universitiesNetflix loses $15B after Musk’s call to cancel
Israel storms Gaza aid flotillaTürkiye presses for UN reformsRohingya demand action at UNUS intel to boost Ukraine strikesMusk halfway to becoming first trillionaire
Flotilla nears Gaza, faces drone threatsQatar: Trump’s Gaza plan needs workUS government shuts down in budget standoffZelenskyy warns of ‘critical’ nuclear riskUp to 60 killed in Philippine quake
Maduro signs decree granting security powers in case of military interventionUK Labour Party members vote to recognise war on Gaza as genocidePalestine, Türkiye and world leaders welcome Trump’s Gaza ceasefire planFrom White House, Netanyahu rings Qatar, apologises for Israel's attack on DohaSaudi-led consortium to buy FIFA-famous video game giant for whopping $55B
Israel destroyed Christian presence in PalestineOregon sues to block Trump from deploying troops to PortlandHamas slams US plans to appoint Tony Blair to GazaGlobal Sumud aid flotilla bound for Gaza approaches Egypt's northern coastDenmark bans all civilian drone flights due to EU summit
- Israel kills 98 in Gaza raids Colombia’s Petro wants UN HQ moved to Qatar UN sanctions snap back on Iran Zelenskyy seeks $90B in US arms 4,500-year-old treasures found in Troy
- Trump: Intense Gaza talks underway * Erdogan hails UN support for Palestine Venezuela slams US ‘military threat’ at UN Iran: Sanctions won’t break NPT commitment* Starbucks to cut jobs, close stores
Trump hails Erdogan as ‘highly respected’ leader in White House talks, pledges closer tiesTropical Storm Humberto forms in Atlantic, could rapidly strengthen into major hurricaneTürkiye, Egypt hold first joint naval exercise in the Mediterranean in 13 yearsAl Shabaab leader among 24 terrorists killed in SomaliaGermany's industrial giant Bosch to cut 13,000 jobs in blow to country's ailing auto sector
Israel kills 85 Palestinians in Gaza City pushYemen drone strike injures 50 in Israel’s EilatErdogan: Türkiye’s green energy tops 60%Syrian leader warns Israel risks ‘new crises’Stars join protest at San Sebastian Festival
Erdogan at UNGA: ‘In Gaza, there is genocide, not war’Global Sumud Flotilla faces drones, blasts but sails onKhamenei rejects US nuclear talksSweden mosque destroyed in suspected arsonUN blames Trump aide for escalator stop
"Israel kills at least 35 Palestinians in Gaza""Trump to denounce recognition of Palestine by US allies at UN"Palestine's Abbas vows elections within year after Gaza genocideUkraine, Western allies denounce ‘Russian provocations’ at UNTürkiye, Egypt hold first joint naval exercise in 13 years
Israeli strikes in Lebanon kill five, including four AmericansUS calls recognition of Palestine by allies 'performative'Syrian President says blocking sanctions relief amounts to complicity in killingNorth Korea urges US to drop denuclearisation demands"Egypt says missing pharaoh's bracelet melted down for gold"
- Britain to recognise Palestine on Sunday: reports Israel asks US to pressure Egypt over Sinai build-up Trump warns Afghanistan of 'bad things' over Bagram Air Base control Iran to halt IAEA cooperation after UN keeps sanctions India says US visa hike could hit IT sector, families
- 15 of 16 Palestinians killed in Gaza were civilians: report Trump raged at Netanyahu after Qatar attack: report Pakistan signals more defence deals after Saudi pact Venezuela urges UN action over deadly US boat raids Erdogan eyes Trump talks to ease regional tensions
Algeria warns UN after US Gaza vetoIran drops nuclear site resolution under US pressureSyria’s top diplomat visits Washington after 25 yearsMexico, Canada team up ahead of USMCA reviewSyria joins Türkiye’s Teknofest tech show
Israel kills 102 in strikes on GazaSaudi, Pakistan ink defence pactUS orders deportation of activist Mahmoud KhalilABC suspends Kimmel over Kirk commentsIsrael halts film awards funding
Qatar warns Netanyahu: ‘No one above the law’Erdogan blasts Israel’s 'state terror'Russia rules out US-Ukraine talksBeirut blast shipowner arrested in BulgariaTürkiye’s TEKNOFEST takes off in Istanbul
Israel launches ground invasion to occupy Gaza City: reportGreek volunteers join Sumud flotilla to break Israel’s Gaza blockadeErdogan meets leaders in Doha on Israel attacks, regional tensionsTesla stock jumps as Elon Musk invests nearly $1B in the companyVenezuela is ready for armed struggle against US: Maduro
Fidan: Israel’s expansionist policy fuels regional chaosFlotilla sets sail to break Israeli siege of GazaTrump pressures Europe on Russia sanctionsJapan’s senior population hits record highTürkiye wins silver at EuroBasket
- US top diplomat Rubio visits Israel amid Gaza invasion Sumud Flotilla departs Tunisia to challenge Israel's Gaza blockade Nepal sets March elections after naming interim prime minister US officials meet Afghanistan's Taliban to explore prisoner swap, wider ties NATO oil buys keep Russia-Ukraine war alive, Trump says
- Over 1M Palestinians remain in Gaza City despite Israeli expulsions Australia sees surge in anti-Muslim incidents since Gaza war erupted Denmark boosts its defence with a record-setting arms purchase deal NATO strengthens its eastern posture amid Russian instrusions Türkiye beat Greece to reach EuroBasket final
UNSC condemns Israel's attack on Qatar, without directly naming itNetanyahu approves more Jewish settlement, rules out Palestinian stateBrazil jails former leader Bolsonaro for coup plotUK ambassador to US Mandelson fired over Epstein tiesFBI releases video of Kirk suspect amid $100K reward hunt
Qatar signals regional response to Israel’s Doha attackTrump clashes with Netanyahu, expressing 'frustration'Poland to invoke NATO’s Article 4 against RussiaNearly 200,000 join France’s 'Block Everything' protestsConservative US commentator Charlie Kirk shot dead
Israel strikes Qatar, targeting Hamas truce negotiatorsWorld condemns Israel's strikes on QatarFrench police probe pig heads left near Paris mosquesUK envoy’s Epstein tie resurfaces in ‘best pal’ notePM resigns as mass protests engulf Nepal
Netanyahu: '50 Gaza towers down, more to come'BRICS leaders blast US “tariff blackmail”Thai court orders Thaksin back to prisonMaduro sends 25,000 troops to borderTEKNOFEST returns to Istanbul with global buzz
"Ready for talks on new US-brokered Gaza ceasefire proposal: Hamas"European leaders will visit US this week to discuss Russia-Ukraine war: TrumpIsrael unveils new training compound in Syria's Golan Heights to simulate war in LebanonIsrael’s ex-Shin Bet chief involved in plot to kidnap German heiress’s childrenNearly 900 arrested in London during "Lift The Ban" protests against UK ban on Palestine Action
- Israeli strikes kill at least 49 Palestinians across Gaza Poland scrambles jets amid Russian strikes on western Ukraine UK police arrest hundreds at London protest supporting Palestine Action Deaths after boat capsizes in flood-hit southern Pakistan Thousands protest Trump's troop deployment in Washington, DC
Israel kills dozens of Palestinians amid negotiationsIAEA warns the world as nuclear armament rises across nationsUkraine urges Hungary to relent as Russia backs EU bidUS president deploys fighter jets to Puerto Rico against 'Venezuelan cartels'Trump pushes defence rebrand with return to war title
Global Sumud Flotilla hits back at threats from IsraelGaza genocide highlights Europe’s failure to act: Top EU officialGaza Tribunal in London to examine UK's role in genocideFrance sued over failure to prevent genocide in GazaHot mic catches Xi and Putin on human immortality
Hamas agrees to technocrat administration in GazaGoogle in $45M PR deal with Netanyahu to promote Israeli hasbaraBoat accident in Nigeria leaves at least 60 deadICE gets Israeli spyware to hack phonesTürkiye's new MUGEM carrier to surpass France's Charles de Gaulle
Israeli families urge Trump to press Netanyahu for swap dealBelgium announces Gaza-related sanctions on IsraelFrance issues warrants for Bashar al Assad, regime officialsSuicide bomber targets political party, kills over dozen in PakistanXi hosts Putin and Kim, showcasing China’s 'unstoppable' power
Belgium to recognise Palestinian state at UN General AssemblyTrump acknowledges Israeli lobby losing influence over CongressSCO 'strongly condemns' Gaza civilian tollIsrael kills 51 Palestinians in attacks across GazaTCG Icel: Türkiye unveils its eighth indigenous naval vessel
SCO summit kicks off in China's TianjinDeadly earthquake wreaks havoc in Afghanistan's Kunar provinceUS lifts sanctions on illegal Israeli settlers, halts Palestinian visasGlobal Sumud Flotilla sails from Barcelona to break Gaza blockadeSuspect arrested in shooting of Ukrainian lawmaker: Zelenskyy
- China will host 20 world leaders at the 25th SCO Summit Hamas confirms Mohammad Sinwar's death Casualties as train derails in Egypt's Matrouh province Thousands protest Israeli genocidal war on Gaza near Venice Film Festival Türkiye, France and Spain criticise US for blocking Palestinian officials
- Israel kills dozens of Palestinians in its Gaza attacks Lawyers seek Netanyahu's arrest if he visits Argentina US appeals court rules Trump's sweeping tariffs are illegal Spain-bound ship sinks, over hundred feared dead Türkiye calls to suspend Israel's UN membership
Russian drone attacks kill 18 people in UkraineIsraeli strikes kill 27 more Palestinians in GazaMicrosoft fires more employees over anti-Israel protestIran slams European powers over ‘snapback’ sanctionsTrump tighten visa limits for students, journalists
Israel razes 1,500+ homes in Gaza's Al Zeitoun15,800 Gaza patients need urgent evacuation: WHOArgentina's Milei rushed to safety after protest attackPakistan deploys army as India warns of major floodsTrump won't budge unless India does: US adviser
Israelis pressure Netanyahu over ceasefire, captives’ releaseIsrael kills Syrian soldiers near DamascusTrump shrugs off Lavrov’s remarks on Zelenskyy’s legitimacyVenezuela sends warships, drones as US strengthens Caribbean fleetUS to pursue death penalty for DC murders: Trump
Journalist death toll in Gaza reaches 246 since October 2023OIC rejects Israel’s Gaza occupation plansTrump threatens China with 200% tariff over magnetsSyria lambasts Israel for pursuing 'expansionist agenda'Norway pledges $8.5B aid to Ukraine
Israeli army chief urges Netanyahu to accept Gaza dealLavrov: West blocks Ukraine peace talks to end warVietnamese flee as Typhoon Kajiki nearsTrump blasts US networks, suggests license reviewIran: Disputes with Washington “insoluble"
- First Lady Erdoğan appeals to Melania Trump over Gaza crisis Thousands join Venezuela militia amid US threat US bars Ukraine from using long-range missiles in Russia * Kim Jong-un oversees launch of new missile systems* Another Palestinian journalist killed by Israeli fire in Gaza
- Miller admits Netanyahu, not Hamas, disrupted Gaza truce deals Dutch FM resigns over Israel sanctions deadlock Maduro condemns US warships near Venezuela as 'illegal' Taiwan holds 2nd vote targeting opposition politicians Türkiye tests Simsek high-speed target drone successfully
Israel cuts water pipelines in northern GazaPakistani, Chinese officials meet to deepen economic tiesUS subjects all 55 million visa holders to reviewCourt rules ex-Trump lawyer ineligible as US attorneyIsraeli policies fuel Syria instability, threaten region: Türkiye
Israel launches new phase of occupation offensive in GazaUN condemns Israel over new West Bank settlementsSyria unveils new rules for parliamentary voteChina, Pakistan and Afghanistan meet to boost ties'World’s nicest judge'' Frank Caprio dies
Israel calls reservists to occupy Gaza despite truce talksTrump says Putin, Zelenskyy in process of setting up meetingSyrian, Israeli officials hold Paris talks on key issuesUS to subject immigrants to 'anti-Semitic' screeningsPalestine to make historic Miss Universe debut
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy agrees to direct talks with Putin to end the warIsrael studies Hamas reply as Gaza suffers from worsening starvationPeace along Himalayas becomes focus as Indian, Chinese top diplomats meetUS warns India’s oil imports fund RussiaMyanmar sets polls after four years pause
Overnight death toll from Israel's Gaza strikes rises to 32Thousands protest against Gaza occupation in IsraelZelenskyy hails US offer of security guaranteesSDF sends mixed signals on March 10 deal: SharaaChina calls US 'accomplice to Gaza genocide'
- European leaders to discuss Trump's Ukraine 'peace' plan Israel plans to forcibly relocate Gaza residents to south Floods and landslides devastate Pakistan leaving 351 dead Paramilitary forces attack Sudanese camp, killing dozens Next Sosyal hits 1M users as platform grows rapidly in Türkiye
- Trump and Putin discussed Ukraine peace in Alaska Nearly 1,800 Palestinians killed seeking Gaza aid since May: UN Deadly shooting near a mosque in Sweden: police Five dead in Pakistan relief chopper crash as floods kill dozens Act now to stop Gaza collapse: Erdogan
Journalists should be allowed into Gaza: TrumpIsrael's West Bank settlement plan would 'deepen' occupation: UNNew clashes in Serbia as anti-government protests escalateBrazil's Bolsonaro seeks acquittal in coup attempt trialUK silence leaves Palestinian scholarship students trapped in Gaza
Israeli strikes kill 64 Palestinians across GazaIsrael destroys over 300 homes in Gaza's Zeitoun in three daysUS appeals court allows Trump to cut billions in foreign aidTrump eyes three-way meeting with Zelenskyy, Putin Turkish, Azerbaijani contingents attend Pakistan's Independence Day parade
Israel continues killing Palestinians in GazaNetanyahu vows to pursue ‘Greater Israel’ missionTrump to join Zelenskyy, EU leaders in virtual talks before Putin meetingPakistan warns India against violating Indus Waters TreatyxAI’s Grok briefly suspended over Gaza genocide comments
Israel kills dozens of Palestinians in GazaTrump suggests land swaps between Ukraine and Russia to end fightingHague tribunal rules in favour of Pakistan on Indus water rightsTrump extends China tariff suspension by 90 daysErdogan condemns Israeli actions and rallies diplomatic efforts for Gaza
Israel kills four Al Jazeera journalists in its Gaza City strikeAustralia will recognise Palestine at UNGA in September: AlbaneseRussia-Ukraine deal won't make anyone 'super happy': VanceUNSC reaffirms Syria's territorial integrity, condemns interferenceTrump vows to remove homeless 'far from the capital' Washington DC
- Azerbaijan, Armenia seal historic US-brokered peace deal US backs Israel’s Gaza reoccupation Trump-Putin Alaska summit could see land swap Mexico dismisses US invasion talk amid cartel crackdown China opens world’s first humanoid robot store
Israel's security cabinet approves Netanyahu's plan to reoccupy GazaThousands of Israelis protest Netanyahu's Gaza reoccupation planTrump says Russia-Ukraine ceasefire decision 'up to Putin'UAE rejects Sudan claim of bombing plane with mercenariesIndia's Assam state to arm locals against 'illegal Bangladeshis'
Israel kills 25 Palestinians waiting for food aidIsraeli army told to follow government diktat amid Gaza occupation riftUS gains insight into Russia's terms to end Ukraine warTrump warns of more sanctions after targeting India over Russian oilTürkiye, Syria sign deal to boost economic ties
Trump refuses to say if he supports or opposes Israel's Gaza occupation planRussia says Israeli settlers attacked its diplomats in JerusalemTrump to host peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan leaders: reportPakistan police arrest over 100 workers of ex-PM Imran Khan's party ahead of protestJD Vance is 'most likely' heir to MAGA movement: Trump
Israel dawn attacks kill 63 Palestinians in GazaBolsonaro placed under house arrestTexas Democrats flee to block GOP mapTürkiye a hot spot for Chinese travellersRoyal Opera cancels Israel shows
Israel mulls wider Gaza war despite hostage risksTürkiye, Egypt join hands to fight Gaza starvationTrump sends US nuclear subs amid Russia tensions68 dead, 74 missing in migrant boat tragedyPakistan monsoon toll nears 300
- Latest Israeli attacks kill 49 Palestinians in Gaza Israel pushing Gaza starvation by replacing UN aid with 'political' GHF: UN Ukrainian drone attack sparks fire at oil depot in Russia's Sochi city Syria arrests 'war criminal' over Assad-era abuses US opens investigation into former Trump prosecutor Jack Smith
- Gaza carnage deepens as Israel bombs aid lines, killing scores EU commissioner demands access to Gaza to see reality on ground Colombia's ex-president Uribe sentenced to 12 years house arrest Trump seeks to fire official overseeing US jobs data Italy praises Türkiye's role in curbing irregular migration
Trump calls Gaza starvation ‘terrible,’ skips blaming IsraelPalestine hails Canada, Malta, Portugal on statehoodEl Salvador ends term limits, Bukele can run indefinitelyRussia backs Syria, rejects foreign meddlingAncient Assos theatre set for revival after 2,200 years
Israel kills 68 in Gaza, including aid seekersCanada to recognise PalestineMillions return after Tsunami warnings liftedRussia slams Trump’s Iran threatsKlyuchevskoy volcano erupts after massive quake
Trump gives Russia 10 days to end Ukraine warUK ties Palestine recognition to Gaza ceasefireTürkiye: No peace without ending Israeli occupationModi rejects Trump’s Pakistan peace claim8.8 magnitude earthquake hits Russia's Kamchatka
Israel continues killing Palestinians amid growing pressureSuicides increase among Israeli soldiers in 2025Thailand accuses Cambodia of breaking the truceIran warns it will respond more decisively if attackedTurkish Airlines inks deal with DIB for Airbus A350s
Starmer to hold emergency Cabinet meeting as pressure mounts over Gaza"British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will convene an emergency Cabinet meeting this week to discuss the escalating crisis in Gaza amid genocidal Israeli siege, local media reports said.The meeting, which will take place despite Parliament's summer recess, comes as the government faces increasing pressure to recognise a Palestinian state.Starmer is also due to meet with US President Donald Trump in Scotland, where he is expected to urge the White House to adopt a firmer stance towards Israel."1 in 3 Palestinians in Gaza hasn't eaten for days: UN"The UN's top humanitarian official has warned of an accelerating humanitarian disaster in Gaza. Tom Fletcher, under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, said one in three people hasn't eaten ""for days"" and children are ""wasting away"" amid severe food aid shortages.He said that despite Israel's decision to support a one-week scale-up of aid, massive amounts of aid are needed to stave off famine."Syria to hold first post-Assad parliamentary election in September"Syria plans to hold its first parliamentary elections under the new leadership between September 15 and 20.The country's High Election Committee met with President Ahmad al Sharaa to brief him on key amendments to the temporary electoral law, following rounds of consultations with various sectors of Syrian society.Al Sharaa stressed the importance of conducting the elections across all Syrian provinces and rejected any notion of territorial division, which all Syrians oppose."Zelenskyy signals swift action on anti-graft agencies after EU's plea"European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to uphold independent anti-corruption bodies. ""Ukraine has already achieved a lot on its European path,"" von der Leyen said in a post on X, adding that ""it must build on these solid foundations and preserve independent anti-corruption bodies, which are cornerstones of Ukraine's rule of law"".The Ukrainian leader, meanwhile, signalled that supporting legislation could be adopted within days."US, EU strike trade deal following 'tough negotiations'"The US and the EU reached a trade deal, ending months-long uncertainty, President Donald Trump announced following a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Scotland.The US president said he thinks the deal is going to be ""great"" for both parties, which sets the US rate at 15 percent on EU goods.For her part, the European Commission president also praised the deal, saying it is a ""huge deal""."
Israel seizes Gaza-bound aid ship"Israeli forces stormed the Gaza-bound aid ship Handala after it sent a distress call, detaining 21 activists on board.Live video streams from the vessel were cut mid-raid as soldiers took control. The ship is being towed to Ashdod, with activists expected to be deported.The fate of the crew remains unclear."Israel announces short pause of its Gaza attacks"Israel says it will pause fighting in Gaza on Sunday from 10 a.m. to evening to allow aid into what it calls as “humanitarian centres.”The brief halt comes amid rising international pressure over the deepening crisis in the besieged Palestinian enclave. "RSF-led coalition announces parallel government in Sudan"Sudan’s RSF paramilitary has declared its own government, defying the army and risking further partition.RSF leader Hemedti unveiled the administration in western Sudan, where his forces hold sway.The army, which controls Khartoum, has vowed to crush the move, escalating a war already tearing the country apart."Türkiye signs deal to supply 48 KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia"Türkiye has signed an agreement to deliver 48 KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia in a landmark defence partnership.The deal includes joint production, engineering collaboration, and technology transfer, with deliveries scheduled over the next 10 years.Officials hailed the signing as a “historic moment” for bilateral defence ties, deepening cooperation between the two nations.""Nigeria pull off stunning comeback to win WAFCON""Nigeria roared back from 2-0 down to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 and clinch a record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.Goals from Okoronkwo, Ijamilusi, and late hero Echegini sealed a dramatic win in Rabat.The Super Falcons remain Africa’s undisputed queens of football."
UNRWA: Gaza famine is ‘deliberate and constructed’"The UN agency for Palestine refugees says Gaza’s mass starvation isn’t accidental but “constructed and deliberate.” It accused the Israeli- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation of serving “military and political objectives” instead of feeding people. “More children died today, their bodies emaciated by hunger,” UNRWA said. The agency called the distribution system “flawed and cruel,” claiming it takes more lives than it saves."Türkiye urges unity as Syria tensions rise"Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has warned that rising violence in Syria, particularly in Sweida, threatens the country’s unity. He said multiple armed groups are mobilising, sparking fears of wider conflict. “We had to issue our warning because we are committed to Syria’s unity and territorial integrity,” he told NTV. Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s goal of supporting regional peace alongside global partners."Thai-Cambodia clashes enter day 3, death toll hits 33"Deadly fighting on the Thai-Cambodian border has stretched into a third day, killing 33 people despite calls for a ceasefire. The clashes, the worst in years, involved jets, tanks and heavy artillery. Cambodia reported 13 dead, including eight civilians, while Thailand confirmed 20 fatalities, including 14 civilians. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting, urging both sides to halt hostilities."Ukraine faces fierce Russian push at Pokrovsk"Ukraine is battling intense Russian assaults near Pokrovsk, a key logistics hub under daily pressure. President Zelenskyy said the city is now the main focus of military operations and a priority for defence forces. He also highlighted ongoing fighting in Sumy, where Russian troops recently crossed the border. "Moody’s boosts Türkiye’s credit rating"Moody’s has upgraded Türkiye’s credit rating from B1 to Ba3 and shifted its outlook to stable. The agency credited improved policymaking, especially tighter monetary policy that is easing inflation and restoring investor confidence. It said the risk of policy reversal has fallen significantly. "
World leaders are throwing their weight behind French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement that France will officially recognise the State of Palestine in September. Many see this as a significant move toward peace in the Middle East.Several global leaders say the recognition is crucial to protect a peace process that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is actively undermining.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has sharply criticised Macron's announcement to recognise the State of Palestine.Rubio said the US is firmly against Macron's proposal to recognise Palestine at the UN General Assembly. He called it reckless, saying it will only embolden Hamas and make peace even harder to achieve.At least one Cambodian civilian has been killed and five others injured after renewed clashes broke out, marking the second straight day of violence between the two neighbours.A spokesperson from Cambodia's Oddar Meanchey province, Meth Meas Pheakdey, confirmed the fighting took place in Banteay Ampil, near the contested border zone.The situation has forced around 1,500 Cambodian families to evacuate to safer ground. On the other side, Thailand's Health Ministry reported that 15 Thai nationals have lost their lives in the conflict as of early Friday.The International Criminal Court has handed down major sentences in a landmark ruling. Two rebel leaders from the Central African Republic have been convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity tied to brutal sectarian violence over a decade ago.Patrice-Edouard Ngaissona was sentenced to 12 years in prison, while Alfred Yekatom received a 15-year sentence. Both were found guilty for their leadership roles in the Anti-Balaka militia, which targeted Muslim civilians during a wave of attacks between September 2013 and February 2014, in and around the capital, Bangui.The number of journalists killed in Gaza continues to rise amid Israel's relentless assault. According to the Government Media Office in Gaza, 232 journalists have now lost their lives since October 7, 2023.Officials in Gaza say the targeting of media workers is part of a broader genocidal campaign and warn that the toll could grow even higher.
Hamas has confirmed it submitted its response to an Israeli proposal for a 60-day Gaza ceasefire to negotiators.The response included proposed amendments to clauses on the entry of aid, maps of areas from which the Israeli army should withdraw, and guarantees on securing a permanent end to the war, according to a Palestinian source familiar with ongoing talks in Doha.Negotiators from both sides have been holding indirect talks in Doha with mediators in an attempt to reach an agreement on a truce deal.Türkiye has rejected a motion passed by the Israeli Knesset to annex the occupied West Bank, calling it ""null and void"" under international law and warning it poses a grave threat to regional stability.The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the West Bank is Palestinian territory under Israeli occupation since 1967.It added that any attempt by Israel to annex it constituted an illegitimate and provocative effort aimed at undermining peace efforts.Armed clashes have broken out between Thailand and Cambodia along a disputed area of their border, the militaries of both countries said, each accusing the other of firing the first shots after weeks of simmering tension.The Thai military said in a statement that Cambodian troops had opened fire in an area near the disputed Ta Moan Thom temple.A spokesperson for Cambodia's Defence Ministry said there had been an unprovoked incursion by Thai troops and Cambodian forces had responded in self-defence.Protests in central Kiev against a law that curbs the power of anti-corruption agencies have continued as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy promised a new bill.The legislation, removing the independence of two key anti-corruption bodies, sparked the first major protests in Ukraine since the conflict with Russia began over three years ago.Zelenskyy responded to the backlash, saying he would submit a new bill ensuring "all norms for the independence of anti-corruption institutions will be in place".A federal appeals court has ruled that President Donald Trump's effort to end birthright citizenship is unconstitutional, upholding a lower-court decision that blocked the policy from taking effect across the United States.The 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed that Trump's executive order, which was aimed at ending automatic citizenship for children born on US soil to noncitizen parents, violated the Constitution.The decision aligns with a previous ruling by a federal judge in New Hampshire, who also found the order unlawful and issued a nationwide injunction.
US Senator Mark Kelly has called on Israel to stop attacking Palestinians seeking food and aid in Gaza. “Israel must stop these attacks on people seeking aid,” he posted on X, stressing that children are starving. His appeal comes as medical sources report at least 85 Palestinians killed in fresh Israeli strikes.More than 100 aid groups, including MSF, Oxfam, and Save the Children, are sounding the alarm on “mass starvation” in Gaza. They say aid warehouses are full but blocked from reaching desperate families. The coalition is calling for an immediate ceasefire, opening of all land crossings, and free UN-led aid deliveries. Their warning coincides with a US envoy’s European trip to discuss a potential truce and aid corridor.The Syrian government has deployed buses to evacuate families trapped in unrest-hit Sweida. State media showed convoys entering the southern province to transport civilians to safety. Violence has displaced thousands, with neighbouring Daraa province reporting a steady influx of fleeing families.The US has announced it will leave UNESCO for the third time, effective December 31, 2026. Washington cited the agency’s admission of Palestine and what it called a “globalist, ideological agenda” at odds with its “America First” policy. A State Department spokesperson said continued membership is “not in the national interest.” The move marks another sharp break in US engagement with international institutions.Türkiye has showcased its first hypersonic missile, the Tayfun Block-4, at the IDEF 2025 defence fair in Istanbul. Roketsan, the developer, also unveiled six other advanced systems at the event. The Tayfun Block-4, weighing over seven tonnes, can destroy high-value targets like air defence systems and command centres from long distances. Officials say the missile marks a major leap for Türkiye’s defence industry and long-range strike capabilities.
Hunger strikes erupt in solidarity with starving children in Gaza"A wave of hunger strikes is sweeping the Arab world in protest of Gaza’s starvation crisis caused by the Israeli brutal war and blockade on the Palestinian enclave. Gaza Civil Defence’s Mahmoud Basal started a full hunger strike, saying, “I won’t eat until my people can.” He described the Israeli blockade as “systematic collective punishment” and called for urgent global action. Former Tunisian president Moncef Marzouki also joined in solidarity. ""UNICEF: ‘Enough is enough’ as Gaza hunger crisis deepens""UNICEF is sounding the alarm on Gaza’s worsening famine, calling it a man-made disaster. Children are dying from hunger and malnutrition is now “catastrophic,” the agency warned. Food is nearly gone, water is below emergency levels, and aid is barely getting in. “Enough is enough,” said UNICEF, urging full access for humanitarian deliveries. "Türkiye to host new Ukraine-Russia peace talks"Ukraine and Russia are gearing up for another round of peace talks in Türkiye. President Zelenskyy confirmed the meeting will happen Wednesday, led by his security chief Rustem Umerov. The talks will also cover a possible prisoner swap. Zelenskyy said real progress depends on leader-level engagement and called on diplomats to rally international support. "Türkiye, Iran coordinate ahead of nuclear talks"Top Turkish and Iranian diplomats spoke ahead of nuclear negotiations in Istanbul this Friday. Hakan Fidan and Abbas Araghchi discussed the upcoming talks with the E3 nations (UK, France, and Germany) as well as regional issues like Gaza and Syria. The Istanbul round is part of broader efforts to revive diplomacy amid rising tensions.""Türkiye gets stolen Marcus Aurelius statue back after 65 years""Türkiye has finally brought home a stolen bronze statue of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius after six decades abroad. Once displayed in the Cleveland Museum of Art, the statue was looted from Boubon in the 1960s. After a joint investigation and legal push, the US museum dropped its claim. Culture Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy hailed the return as a major win: “We were patient—and we won.” "
UN slams Israel's new evacuation order in Gaza as blow to lifesaving aid"The United Nations is condemning Israel's latest evacuation order in central Gaza, calling it a serious threat to humanitarian efforts. In a statement, the UN warned that this new ultimatum could bring already struggling aid operations to a halt and make life even more unbearable for civilians on the ground. The UN's humanitarian office says at least a thousand families have already fled the area in the past few hours."US officials reportedly growing frustrated with Netanyahu"There is increasing tension in Washington over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's military decisions, especially following recent air strikes in Syria.According to a report by Axios, some senior officials in the White House have expressed serious concern, stating that Netanyahu's actions are becoming too unpredictable and disruptive.One official criticised the Israeli leader for behaving like a ""madman"" who ""bombs everything all the time."""Death toll from Sweida clashes in Syria reportedly rises to 426"The deadly clashes in Syria's southern Sweida province have now claimed at least 426 lives, according to the Syrian Network for Human Rights. The fighting, which broke out about a week ago, pits an alliance of Bedouin tribal fighters against Druze militias. The toll includes some of the most vulnerable: seven children, ten women, six health care workers, and two media professionals, SNHR said in its latest statement covering the period from July 13 to July 20."Iran, E3 countries agree to resume nuclear talks in Istanbul"Iran and the E3 — France, Germany, and Britain — are returning to the negotiation table.Talks on Iran's nuclear programme are scheduled to resume this Friday in Istanbul, according to Iranian broadcaster Press TV.Earlier reports suggested a tentative agreement to restart discussions sometime next week, but it is now official with the timing and location of the talks confirmed."Japanese PM vows to stay on despite losing majority in Upper House elections"Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's party appears to have lost its majority in the country's Upper House elections. Local media outlets, including Nippon TV and TBS, project that the ruling coalition of Ishiba's Liberal Democratic Party and Komeito has only secured around 41 of the 125 contested seats. That's well short of the 50 needed to maintain control."
Israel targets Syria's Sweida in new strike "Israel has launched a new air strike in southern Syria's Sweida city.The attack late on Thursday targeted the outskirts of the city. The strike came a day after the Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed a new ceasefire agreement in the city, which includes full reintegration of the southern province under central government authority.Israel has been targeting the capital, Damascus, as well as Sweida and Daraa. Meanwhile, the United States has said it opposed its ally Israel's strikes in Syria but did not take up the matter with Tel Aviv. "Israel's bloodbath in Gaza continues "Israel has killed at least 94 Palestinians and wounded 367 others in besieged Gaza over the last 24 hours amid its ongoing genocide in the enclave.The death toll since Israel's resumption of the genocide on March 18 after a two-month truce has also climbed to 7,843, in addition to 27,933 others wounded.The majority of the victims are women and children. Meanwhile, Israel bombed the Catholic Holy Family Church in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood, the only Catholic church in Gaza, killing at least three people and wounding several others including the priest of the church. "Ukraine, US considering major drone deal""President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are considering a deal that involves Washington buying battlefield-tested Ukrainian drones in exchange for Kiev purchasing weapons from the US.Ukrainian drones have been able to strike targets as deep as 1,300 kilometers into Russian territory. Zelenskyy has said drones were the key tool that has allowed his country to fight with Russia's for more than three years."Slovenia bans Ben-Gvir, Smotrich over Gaza's 'unbearable situation'"Slovenia has become the first EU member state to formally declare two Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich as persona non grata, citing their role in what it called the ""unbearable situation"" in Gaza. Slovenia's move follows its June recognition of the State of Palestine. Meanwhile Belgium is mulling to impose sanctions against Israel if the humanitarian situation in Gaza does not improve."G20 finance chiefs meet under tariff cloud in South Africa"South Africa has urged G20 countries to provide global and cooperative leadership to tackle challenges, including rising trade barriers, as the bloc's finance chiefs met under the shadow of President Donald Trump's tariff threats.Host South Africa, under its presidency's motto ""Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability"", has aimed to promote a Pan-African agenda, with topics including the high cost of capital and funding for climate crisis action."
Israel bombs Syria, kills 3, wounds dozens"At least three people have been killed and 34 others wounded as Israel launched a wave of air strikes on the Syrian capital.Israel carried out strikes on the General Staff Complex and the Presidential Palace, known as Qasr al-Shaab, in Damascus.The Israeli army confirmed the air strikes and called the attack on the Presidential Palace a “warning strike.”Israeli fighter jets also staged several air strikes on the southwestern province of Daraa and Qatana city in the Damascus countryside."Israel kills scores in Gaza including aid-seeking Palestinians"Israel has killed at least 68 people in Gaza on Wednesday, including several starving Palestinians who suffocated from tear gas while waiting at US-backed, so-called aid sites in the hope of getting some food.The killings took place in Khan Younis, Nuseirat refugee camp, Gaza City, Jabalia, Deir al Balah and Netzarim Corridor.""Türkiye slams Israeli strikes on Damascus"Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry has condemned recent Israeli air strikes targeting central Damascus, calling them a deliberate attempt to undermine Syria’s efforts toward peace, stability, and security.The ministry said the latest attack by Israel on Damascus, following its previous military interventions in southern Syria, constitutes an act of sabotage against Syria’s attempts to restore peace and order.Ankara warned that such actions threaten to derail a rare opportunity for the war-torn country to move toward normalisation."Illegal Israeli settlers seize control of historic Ibrahimi Mosque"Israeli authorities have stripped the Palestinian-run Hebron municipality of administrative powers over the Ibrahimi Mosque and transferred them to a council of illegal Jewish settlers.Located in the Old City of Hebron, which is under Israeli occupation, the Ibrahimi Mosque is surrounded by approximately 400 illegal Israeli settlers protected by about 1,500 Israeli soldiers.The mosque complex is believed by Abrahamic religions to hold the remains of Prophet Abraham and his family."Türkiye's Fidan denounces Israel's genocide in Gaza"Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has condemned Israel’s genocide in Gaza in strong terms during an address to the United Nations Security Council, saying the war has turned the Palestinian enclave into a ""concentration camp"" and accused Israel of systematically targeting civilians.Fidan said over 2 million people are enduring unspeakable suffering in Gaza.He also cited Israel's forced mass displacement, widespread destruction, and the deliberate blocking of humanitarian aid in the besieged enclave."
Israel's bloodbath in Gaza continues amid raids in occupied West Bank "Israel has killed over 50 Palestinians across besieged Gaza on Tuesday. The attacks took place in Rafah, Gaza City, Jabalia and Khan Younis. In occupied West Bank Israeli forces abducted at least 35 Palestinians, including children and former prisoners, in a series of overnight raids.The arrests took place in the cities of Nablus, Salfit, Qalqilya, Jenin, Tulkarem, Alkhalil, and Bethlehem, according to a joint statement from the Commission of Detainees Affairs and the Palestinian Prisoner Society,""UN Rapporteur urges global action against Israel to stop Gaza genocide""The United Nations' special rapporteur for besieged Gaza and the occupied West Bank has said that it's time for nations around the world to take concrete actions to stop the ""genocide"" in the blockaded enclave.Francesca Albanese spoke to delegates from 30 countries meeting in Colombia to discuss the Israeli genocide in Gaza and ways that nations can try to stop Israel's carnage.Albanese said the Israeli economy is structured to sustain the occupation that has now turned genocidal.""US court blocks move to end protected status for Afghans""A US federal appeals court has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from ending temporary protected status (TPS) for thousands of Afghan nationals living in the country.The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals issued an emergency stay on the termination order on Monday, which was set to take effect July 15.More than 82,000 Afghans were evacuated to the US following the Taliban's takeover in 2021 after the US’ chaotic withdrawal."US launches probe into Brazil's trade practices"The United States has launched an investigation into Brazil’s trade practices, escalating tensions between the two countries and potentially laying the groundwork for punitive tariffs on South America’s largest economy.The probe, announced by the Office of the US Trade Representative will assess whether Brazil’s policies are ""unreasonable or discriminatory and burden or restrict US commerce."""July 15 defeated coup attempt a ‘critical turning point’ in Türkiye’s history: Erdogan"Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said the defeated July 15 coup attempt in 2016 marked one of the most critical turning points in Türkiye’s history, Speaking at the commemoration ceremony for July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day at parliament in Ankara Erdogan said the coup attempt was a tough test that the state and the nation overcame with pride.Erdogan expressed gratitude to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives, the veterans who defended the nation, the citizens who filled the streets to resist the coup attempt, and the millions abroad who supported Türkiye during that critical night."
Türkiye commemorates victory against the 2016 coup attemptIsrael kills several Palestinians in Gaza’s civilian camp, hospital strikesTexas flood death toll rises to 131 Pentagon picks Google, OpenAI, xAI for $200M AI contractsTrump demands Russia end Ukraine war in 50 days
Trump says Gaza ceasefire could be days away"US President Donald Trump said a Gaza ceasefire deal could be wrapped up within the week. Speaking at Joint Base Andrews, he noted talks are progressing and hinted at a breakthrough soon. He confirmed that Israel has agreed to the proposed terms for a 60-day truce, with the deal now in Hamas' hands. Qatar and Egypt are mediating, and Hamas has responded positively, showing readiness to move forward."Trump approves Patriot missiles for Ukraine"Trump announced the US will send Patriot air defence missiles to Ukraine but says the EU is paying the bill. “We’re not paying anything for it,” he said, calling it good business for the US. He took a jab at Putin, accusing him of double talk: “He talks nice and then bombs people at night.” Trump didn’t say how many missile systems will be delivered."Australia launches biggest war games ever"Australia kicked off its largest-ever military drill, with 35,000 troops training across the country. “Talisman Sabre 2025” includes forces from over 15 partner nations and, for the first time, extends into Papua New Guinea. The exercise reflects growing security concerns in the Indo-Pacific, especially around Taiwan. The three-week drills will cover land, sea, and air operations, showcasing serious regional coordination."Sudan: RSF attack kills 11 civilians, including children"At least 11 civilians, among them three children, were killed in a deadly RSF attack in North Kordofan, Sudan. The Sudan Doctors Network slammed it as one of the most brutal assaults yet. Over 30 others were injured, including nine women and pregnant civilians. Medical officials are calling on the UN and African Union to intervene and stop the violence."Erdogan pushes for ‘Terror-Free Türkiye’"President Erdogan says Türkiye is pushing to erase terrorism from the region’s agenda for good. In a call with UAE President Al Nahyan, he reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to regional security under its ‘Terror-Free Türkiye’ initiative. Al Nahyan welcomed the move and said it would greatly enhance stability."
- Israel kills 100 Palestinians in Gaza as truce hangs in balance US may deport migrants to third countries with just six hours' notice Israeli opposition leader accuses Netanyahu of obstructing Gaza deal North Korea offers full support to Russia on Ukraine Türkiye has won: Erdogan says after PKK terrorists disarm
Israel continues relentless bloodbath in GazaZelenskyy confirms resumption of delivery of US weaponsUS judge blocks immigration raids in California over racial profiling claimsPalestinian-American beaten to death by illegal Zionist settlersUN welcomes PKK terrorist group disarmament
Israel kills 66 Palestinians, including children, in GazaIran says nuclear cooperation depends on IAEA ending ‘double standards’ICC deputy prosecutor says 'crimes against humanity' ongoing in SudanBrazil threatens US with retaliatory tariffs over Trump’s 50% leviesUS expands benefit restrictions for immigrants under Trump policy shift
Israel kills nearly 50, including children, across GazaTrump assails ex-FBI, CIA heads amid reports of criminal probeUS resumes delivering some weapons to UkraineSouth Korea court issues arrest warrant for ex-president YoonTrump imposes 50% tariffs on all Brazilian goods
Israel's bloodbath in Gaza continues Trump, Netanyahu hold second meeting as Gaza ceasefire talks narrowSpain launches probe into Netanyahu over Gaza aid ship attackBulgaria becomes 21st member to adopt euro after EU nodTürkiye reaffirms support for Syria at cooperation panel in Damascus
Netanyahu backs expulsion of Palestinians in meeting with TrumpIsrael continues bombing Gaza, Lebanon and YemenTrump says he will send more weapons to Ukraine Trump announces new wave of tariffs on 14 countriesDeath toll from Texas floods jumps past 100
First round of Gaza ceasefire talks ends inconclusivelyColumbia in talks with Trump admin on restoring federal fundingSeoul to hold arrest warrant hearing for Yoon on July 9Death toll from Texas floods reaches 82US ready to fund nuclear energy projects in Türkiye
Israel sending team to Qatar for truce talks as its genocidal war on Gaza continues"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he was sending a team to Qatar on Sunday for talks on a truce and hostage release in Gaza, after Hamas said it was ready to start negotiations ""immediately"".But Netanyahu, who is due to meet with President Donald Trump in Washington on Monday, said the Palestinian group's proposals for changes to a draft US-backed ceasefire deal were ""unacceptable""."Iran's Khamenei makes first public appearance since clash with Israel"Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, made his first public appearance since the start of his country's recent 12-day conflict with Israel, taking part in a religious ceremony in Tehran, state media has reported.The leader was shown in a video broadcast by state television on Saturday, greeting people and being cheered at a mosque."Elon Musk says he has created a new US political party"Elon Musk, an ex-ally of US President Donald Trump, has said he has launched a new political party in the US to challenge what the tech billionaire described as the country's ""one-party system.""Musk, the world's richest person and Trump's biggest political donor in the 2024 election, had a bitter falling out with the president after leading the Republicans’ effort to slash spending and cut federal jobs as head of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency."Turkish President Erdogan test-drives Togg’s new T10F model in IstanbulTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan test-drove the newly launched T10F sedan by the national electric vehicle manufacturer Togg on Saturday, highlighting Türkiye’s growing presence in the global EV industry.Death toll from Texas floods rises to 51, many still missing"The death toll from the floods in central Texas has risen to 51.Among the missing are 27 young girls from the Camp Mystic summer camp.Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice said there could be more people missing in the region."
- Trump says there could be a deal on a Gaza ceasefire by next week State of disaster declared as Texas floods leave 13 dead Greece battles wildfire on Crete for third day The UK will redefine Palestine Action as a "terrorist organisation" Turkish President Erdogan meets Pakistani Premier Sharif
Over 100 Palestinians killed as Israel intensifies attacks across GazaHindu pilgrimage begins in India-administered KashmirRussia the first to recognise Taliban government in AfghanistanIran reopens most airports, airspace after ceasefire with IsraelTime to share impact of climate crisis equitably: Türkiye's First Lady
Israel kills 90 Palestinians across GazaIsraeli ministers urge Netanyahu to annex occupied West BankMultiple casualties as ferry sinks near BaliPakistan Air Force chief visits US after decade-long gapTurkish FM, Hamas delegation meet in Ankara
Israel kills 80 more Palestinians in GazaTrump claims Israel ready for Gaza peace dealAzerbaijan, Russia swap protests amid tensionsMamdani confirmed as winner of New York mayoral primaryTürkiye hails US move to lift Syria sanctions
Israel continues its brutal war on GazaIsraeli soldiers admit shelling starving Palestinians at Gaza aid pointsTrump ends US sanctions on SyriaElon Musk blasts Trump’s spending bill, calls for new partyTürkiye to host 2026 NATO summit: Erdogan
Israel continues to kill Palestinians in Gaza, block aidTrump exaggerated impact of US strikes: Khamenei239 children dead in El Fasher as RSF siege starves DarfurCanada resumes US trade talks after dropping tech taxJapan launches satellite to monitor climate
- Israel's genocidal war claims more Palestinian lives in Gaza Terror attack in Pakistan kills 13 soldiers Iran warns of ‘crushing’ response if attacked again Iran bars UN nuclear chief, halts surveillance at nuclear sites Türkiye eyes active role in Antarctica's future
- Israel kills more Palestinians in Gaza amid truce calls Gaza ceasefire could be reached 'next week': Trump Iran holds state funeral for top brass killed by Israel Rwanda, DRC sign peace agreement in Washington Development Road Project expected to generate over $50B: Erdogan
Gaza in 'catastrophic situation of genocide' — Spain"Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called the situation in Gaza a ""genocide,"" urging the European Union to suspend its cooperation agreement with Israel. His comments come as Gaza rescuers report Israeli forces have killed 76 more residents in ongoing assaults. Meanwhile, EU leaders have expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis and mounting civilian deaths, calling on Israel to lift its blockade on the besieged enclave."It's not working': Israeli opposition leader calls for end to Gaza genocide"Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has called the ongoing war in Gaza a failure, saying it ""has reached a dead end"" and urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to end the carnage. In a post on X, Lapid said, “What we are doing in Gaza is not working. The war has reached a stalemate.” He stressed the need to shift focus toward securing the release of captives and called on the leadership to change strategy."Trump says US-China inked trade deal, offers no details"US President Donald Trump announced the United States signed a trade deal with China, though no details have been released. Speaking at a White House event, Trump said, “We just signed with China...,” highlighting it as a step toward opening up the Chinese market. He added that the agreement includes developments that “never really could have happened” before."DRC and Rwanda to sign peace deal in US amid doubts over impact"Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are set to sign a peace agreement in Washington to end years of deadly conflict in eastern DRC. The deal follows months of US-led diplomacy under the Trump administration, which has hailed it as a major achievement. However, concerns remain over the agreement’s vague terms and the political and economic motives behind it."Russia confirms Istanbul remains as venue for Ukraine talks"Istanbul remains the venue for negotiations between Moscow and Kiev, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has confirmed.Responding to a question at a press briefing in Moscow, Zakharova said the timing of the next round will be determined by the heads of delegations.Zakharova also thanked Türkiye for its hospitality and continuous facilitation of the negotiation process."
Israel kills over 100 Palestinians in Gaza"Israel has killed more than 100 Palestinians in last 24 hours, including many aid seekers, and wounded hundreds others in besieged Gaza. Meanwhile,the UN agency for Palestinian refugees has warned that Palestinians in Gaza face a severe water crisis threatening them with death from thirst, as Israeli strikes and fuel restrictions have crippled the enclave's water infrastructure."Trump open to Iran nuclear talks "President Donald Trump has said the United States will hold talks with Iran over its nuclear programme next week, following a 12-day conflict with Israel that drew in the US and left hundreds dead and wounded.Trump claimed recent US air strikes had led to the ""total obliteration"" of Iran's nuclear capabilities, setting the programme back ""decades"".He added that the ceasefire he announced earlier in the week was ""going very well.""However, a leaked US intelligence assessment seen by American media suggested the strikes may have delayed Iran's nuclear efforts by only a few months."Israeli military, illegal Zionist settlers kill four Palestinians in occupied West Bank"Israeli military and illegal Zionist settlers have killed at least four Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.Three Palestinians were killed in Kafr Malik, a village northeast of Ramallah, where dozens of illegal Israeli settlers stormed the area, set vehicles on fire and attacked residents.At least seven others were wounded, including one person in critical condition."Kenya protests turn deadly"Sixteen protesters were killed and at least 400 wounded, with 83 in serious condition, following protests across Kenya.A rights group said most were killed by police. Protests raged across at least 23 counties and coincided with the first anniversary of demonstrations opposing tax hikes that left 60 people dead and 20 others missing."Zelenskyy seeks to buy US air defence systems"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he had discussed buying US air-defence systems with President Donald Trump during their meeting on the sidelines of NATO's summit in The Hague.He added that Kiev was ready to buy this equipment and support American weapons manufacturers and the two leaders have also discussed a potential joint drone production."
Palestinian resistance fighters kill seven Israeli occupation soldiers in Gaza"Palestinian resistance fighters have killed seven Israeli occupation soldiers in Gaza. Israel has confirmed the deaths saying an Israeli officer and six soldiers were killed during fighting in the southern Gaza. Meanwhile medics in Gaza have said that at least 50 Palestinians , most of whom were trying to reach food aid, were killed by Israeli gunfire on Tuesday. "Fighting with Iran leaves Israel facing deep financial impact"Israel is facing a staggering economic toll after its 12-day conflict with Iran, with war-related expenses soaring past $5 billion in the first week alone.The Wall Street Journal reported that the daily cost of anti-missile air systems ranged from $10 million to $200 million for Israel.Daily military costs hit $725 million, mostly for offensive operations. Experts estimate the total damage could reach $20 billion when factoring in economic disruptions.Over 10,000 Israelis fled their homes, and over 36,000 sought compensation. With deficits widening, the government is considering spending cuts, tax hikes, or borrowing, potentially threatening a sharp rise in public debt."US to give $30 million to controversial Gaza aid group"The US is giving $30 million to a controversial humanitarian group delivering aid in war-torn Gaza despite grave concerns among several US officials about the month-old operation and the killing of Palestinians near food distribution sites.Washington has backed the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation diplomatically, but this is the first known US government financial contribution to the organisation, which uses private US military and logistics firms to transport aid into Gaza for distribution at so-called ""secure sites."""Don't expect further American offensive: Trump tells Netanyahu"After US strikes on Iran, US President Donald Trump told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to expect further American offensive military action.A senior White House official said Trump phoned Netanyahu after the American bombing on Sunday and told him not to expect additional US military attacks and that he should seek a diplomatic solution with Iran, "Zohran Mamdani wins New York Democratic Mayoral primary"Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old democratic socialist, is leading New York's Democratic primary, and if elected, he would become the city's first Muslim mayor.Former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded defeat in the New York City Democratic primary, well-positioning front-runner Zohran Mamdani to become the city's first Muslim mayor. Mamdani has gained support from voters by focusing on bread-and-butter issues, particularly housing affordability and the rising cost of living in America's most populous city."
Trump announces Israel-Iran ceasefire"US President Donald Trump declared that Israel and Iran had agreed to a phased ceasefire starting Tuesday at 0400 GMT, aiming to end nearly two weeks of fierce hostilities.Trump hailed the deal as the end of “The 12 Day War.”However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied a formal truce, insisting Tehran would halt retaliation only if Israel ceased attacks. Trump's ceasefire announcement came after Iran had threatened and launched missile attacks on the largest US military base in Qatar.According to Iranian media, the latest barrage of missiles was launched just before the ceasefire came into effect."Iran can no longer build a nuclear weapon: US"US Vice President JD Vance declared that Iran is now “incapable” of producing a nuclear weapon, after US strikes destroyed key nuclear infrastructure. “We are now in a place we weren’t a week ago,” Vance told Fox News. His remarks followed President Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire with Iran—ending the fierce 12-Day War. Washington now frames this as both a crippling blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and a fresh opening for Middle East diplomacy."NGOs demand GHF aid group stop deadly Gaza operations"More than a dozen human rights groups have sounded alarm over the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, urging it to halt operations amid chaotic and deadly aid distribution strategy.In a scathing open letter, 15 organisations condemned the US-backed and Israel-controlled group’s approach as a dangerous departure from traditional humanitarian efforts, accusing it of fueling displacement and risking war crimes. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes near Beit Lahia and Gaza City have killed at least eight Palestinian aid seekers and wounded several others."Spain urges EU to suspend trade, embargo arms to Israel"Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares has urged the European Union to take swift, bold action by suspending the EU-Israel trade agreement and imposing an arms embargo on Israel over its genocidal war on the Palestinian enclave of Gaza.Speaking ahead of a Brussels meeting, Albares called for sanctions against those undermining the two-state solution, stressing that upholding Europe’s core values is non-negotiable. "Türkiye's comms chief warns of rising info warfare, foreign meddling"At a high-profile panel in Amsterdam ahead of the NATO Summit, Turkish Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun spotlighted Türkiye’s crucial role in global and regional security. Calling Türkiye “a key to peace and justice,” Altun emphasised the country’s deep involvement in NATO missions and its diplomatic efforts. He also warned about evolving threats, highlighting the rise of information warfare and foreign interference as urgent challenges for the alliance’s future security and stability."
Uranium stockpile untouched after US strikes on nuclear sites: Iran"A senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has said that the country's enriched uranium stockpile remains intact despite recent US air strikes on nuclear sites. Ali Shamkhani, a key figure in Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said the attacks failed to damage Iran’s nuclear capabilities. “Even if nuclear sites are destroyed, the game isn’t over. Enriched materials, indigenous knowledge, and political will remain,” he wrote on X."Trump seeks 'peace' deal with Tehran after Iran strikes: report"US President Donald Trump reportedly has no plans to continue military strikes against Iran and is instead pursuing a peace agreement, Axios reported, citing an unnamed American official. Trump informed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the outcome following strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and expressed his preference for diplomacy. An Israeli official confirmed Washington's stance, saying, “the Americans made it clear to us they want to close this round,” according to the report."Israel continues to kill Palestinions in Gaza"Israeli forces have killed at least 31 more Palestinians and wounded dozens in Gaza, according to local medics. While global attention is focused on the Israel-Iran conflict, Tel Aviv continues its deadly war in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel is also quietly intensifying its occupation of the West Bank."Türkiye, UN condemn deadly church attack in Damascus, call for unity against terrorism"Türkiye and the UN have condemned a deadly suicide bombing at Mar Elias Church in Damascus that killed at least 20 and wounded 52, calling for unity against terrorism.UN envoy Geir Pedersen urged a full investigation into the Daesh-claimed attack, which targeted worshippers during mass.Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry denounced the assault as an attempt to destabilise Syria and disrupt social cohesion."Oil prices surge after Tehran mulls shutting Strait of Hormuz"Oil prices surge after US air strikes on Iranian nuclear sites raised fears of broader conflict and energy disruption.Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate jumped over 4%, as tensions mount over the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil corridor.Iran’s parliament has approved closing the strait in response to US and Israeli attacks on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan."
- Trump claims US strikes hit Iran nuclear sites Iran slams US strike as illegal act of aggression World leaders divided over US strikes on Iran Defiant Khalil vows to keep speaking for Palestine Erdogan warns against ‘new Sykes-Picot’ amid regional turmoil
- Iran, Israel trade strikes; Trump dismisses nuke intel Arab leaders urge global action to stop Israeli attacks Israeli bombs kill dozens of Palestinians in fresh Gaza strikes Trump hails major DRC-Rwanda peace agreement Türkiye pursues diplomacy to stabilise Caucasus, region: Erdogan
"Israel openly threatens to eliminate Iran's Khamenei""Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has threatened to eliminate Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.Calling the Iranian leader “the modern Hitler,” the Israeli minister said: ""A dictator like Khamenei, who leads Iran and has made the destruction of Israel his banner, cannot continue to exist.”The threat comes hours after some 20-30 Iranian missiles targeted Israel’s central cities, including Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Holon, as well as Soroka Hospital in the southern city of Beersheba.""Trump to decide if US joins assault on Iran ‘within two weeks’""US President Donald Trump has said he will decide whether to attack Iran within the next two weeks due to a ""substantial"" chance of negotiations, as Tel Aviv and Tehran traded fire for a seventh day.White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said hat Trump was interested in pursuing a diplomatic solution with Iran, but his top priority was ensuring that Iran could not obtain a nuclear weapon. She said any deal would have to prohibit enrichment of uranium by Tehran and eliminate Iran's ability to achieve a nuclear weapon, adding that ""correspondence has continued"" between the United States and Iran.""UN adds Israel to blacklist of worst violators of children's rights""The UN once again included the Israeli troops among ""parties that commit grave violations affecting children in situations of armed conflict,"" according to a report. The report said: ""In 2024, violence against children in armed conflict reached unprecedented levels, with a staggering 25 percent surge in the number of grave violations in comparison with 2023.""It added that the UN verified 41,370 grave violations against children, with 36,221 committed in 2024 — a nearly 50% rise in deadly incidents compared to the previous year.""Kiev worries Iran-Israel tensions may divert US attention""Fighting between Iran and Israel could deflect global attention from the Russian incursion into Ukraine and even bolster Kremlin's war effort, Ukrainian officials have said.""For Ukraine, the challenge is the price of oil, because if prices remain high for a long time, the Russians will earn more,"" a senior Ukrainian political source said.Kiev is concerned that waning attention and support from Washington could lead to a muted US response to further Russian advances or deadly aerial attacks.Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy said that the war between Iran and Israel carried risks for Kiev, adding that they would like to see the aid to Ukraine would not be reduced because of Israel-Iran conflict. ""Türkiye will never forget Azerbaijan's solidarity after earthquakes: Erdogan""Türkiye will never forget the solidarity of the Azerbaijani people after the earthquakes that hit southern Türkiye in February 2023, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.Speaking at the key delivery ceremony of post-quake houses in Türkiye's Kahramanmaras province alongside his Azerbaijani counterpart Ilham Aliyev, he said that Azerbaijan was one of the first countries that came to his country's aid after the quakes.He recalled Türkiye’s support for Azerbaijan on the issue of Karabakh from the first days of the 44-day conflict with Armenia in fall 2020, expressing Turkish solidarity “gave us additional strength.”"
Tel Aviv and Tehran trade missiles as Trump weighs military action"Tel Aviv and Tehran continue to exchange missile salvos on the seventh day of escalating conflict, as Israeli pressure mounts on US President Donald Trump to intervene.Trump has reportedly approved military plans but has yet to decide whether to authorise an attack on Iran.Meanwhile, dozens of protesters gathered outside the White House, opposing another US military intervention in the Middle East.Only 16 percent of Americans support US involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict, according to a YouGov poll.Israel launched strikes on Iran on Friday, targeting military positions and nuclear sites, killing senior officials, scientists, and hundreds of civilians.Iran responded with a barrage of missiles aimed at key Israeli positions."Putin: Iran’s uranium sites intact despite Israeli strikes"More from the conflict between Israel and Iran...Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Iran’s underground uranium sites remain untouched despite fierce Israeli airstrikes, as Iranian society rallies behind its leadership.Speaking in St. Petersburg, Putin urged a balanced resolution — protecting Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear power and Israel’s right to security.With US President Trump weighing intervention and Iranians fleeing the capital, Putin revealed he had held direct talks with Trump and Netanyahu, stressing diplomacy over escalation."Trump and Pakistan's Munir meet to discuss regional peace, trade"US President Donald Trump praised Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for playing a pivotal role in averting a war with nuclear-armed India. Meeting privately in Washington, the two discussed regional tensions, including Iran and potential trade deals. Trump credited both Munir and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for de-escalating recent hostilities, calling their efforts “extremely influential.” The meeting marks a renewed tie between the US and Pakistan amid heightened tensions in South Asia and the Middle East."Rescue teams search as 700+ missing in Nigeria floods"More than seven-hundred people remain missing three weeks after devastating flash floods struck Niger state in central Nigeria, officials say. At least two-hundred-and-seven-bodies have been recovered, with four-hundred-homes destroyed and over three-thousand-residents displaced. Rescue teams continue their urgent search amid fears the toll could rise. Nigeria’s rainy season, worsened by climate change and poor infrastructure, is expected to bring more flooding, threatening millions across the country. "US Fed holds interest rates, warns of economic uncertainty"The US Federal Reserve held interest rates steady between four-point-twentyfive percent and four-point-fifty percent after its two-day meeting, signalling two rate cuts later this year. Despite its cautious stance, President Trump lashed out, calling Fed Chair Jerome Powell “stupid” for not lowering rates faster. The Fed also lowered its 2025 growth forecast to one-point-four percent while raising inflation and unemployment projections, underscoring economic uncertainties amid ongoing tariff pressures. Officials remain watchful, balancing risks in a volatile landscape."
"Israeli strikes have killed nearly 600 in Iran — US-based group""Israeli strikes have killed at least 585 people across Iran and wounded 1,326 others, a human rights group has claimed.The Washington-based group has claimed to have identified 239 of the dead as civilians and 126 as security personnel.Iran's last update, issued on Monday however puts the death toll at 224 people killed and 1,277 others wounded."Won't kill Iran's supreme leader — at least 'for now': Trump"US President Donald Trump has dramatically stepped up his rhetoric against Iran's supreme leader, saying on social media that the United States knows where Ali Khamenei is located but will not kill him ""for now.""In another post, Trump also appeared to demand Iran's ""unconditional surrender!"" as he fueled questions about whether the United States would join Israel's attacks on Tehran's leadership and nuclear facilities.Trump said on his Truth Social platform that they know exactly where Supreme Leader is hiding, and that he is an easy target, but is safe there, but they are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now.""Israel kills dozens of Palestinians, wounds hundreds in food line""Israel has killed over 30 desperate Palestinians seeking aid in northwest of Gaza City.Israeli occupation soldiers fired at the desperate crowds of Palestinians seeking aid yesterday as they gathered at an aid distribution point to the northwest of the city, Earlier, Israeli forces had fired at Palestinians seeking food aid in the cities of Khan Younis and Rafah in the southern Gaza with tank shells, machine guns and drones, killing more than 60 civilians and wounding approximately 200 others."China: Trump 'adding fuel to fire' in Iran-Israel conflict"China has decried US President Donald Trump's call to Iranians to evacuate the capital Tehran as ""adding fuel to the fire"" amid the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said adding fuel to the fire, making threats, and exerting pressure will not help ease the situation, it will only intensify contradictions and widen the conflict."Türkiye Parliament condemns Israel's genocide in Gaza and attacks on Iran"Türkiye's Parliament has unanimously adopted a motion condemning Israel's ongoing genocide on Gaza, its broader regional actions, and ongoing attacks targeting Iran.In a statement, published in the Official Gazette, the lawmakers said the Israeli regime has committed ""crimes against humanity"" through decades of occupation, systemic violence, and recent bombardments that killed thousands in Gaza.They also denounced Israeli attacks on Iran, describing them as ""provocative and threatening"" and warning they risk dragging the region into wider war."
"Trump cuts G7 trip short as Israel-Iran conflict intensifies""Sirens blare again in Tel Aviv as Tehran launches its ninth wave of retaliatory missile strikes after Israel initiated a conflict against Iran by targeting nuclear sites, strategic positions, and assassinating Iranian scientists and high-ranking officials.The United States, Israel’s main backer, expressed support for Tel Aviv’s attacks while urging Iran to come to the table for diplomatic talks.US President Donald Trump repeatedly warned Iran of grave consequences if the fighting continues. He cut short his G7 meeting in Canada and returned to Washington late Monday to address the situation between Iran and Israel. Responding to media questions about his early departure, he said, “This is big stuff.”"Israeli police target journalists, seize media gear"Meanwhile, Israeli police raided media offices in Haifa, including TRT Arabi and Al Ghad TV, seizing equipment under orders from far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.Citing ""state security,"" Ben-Gvir pushed for a crackdown on foreign broadcasts, following live coverage of a missile strike on Haifa’s oil refinery during Iran’s June 15 retaliatory attack.Operations at the damaged refinery remain suspended.Journalists have been summoned for statements as tensions flare over media censorship.""Israel kills dozens of Palestinians, wounds hundreds in food line""At least 50 Palestinians were killed on Monday by Israeli fire at the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation aid site in Rafah, Palestinian officials report.Medics say 200 people were wounded while trying to access food under Israel’s controversial new distribution system.Since late May, Israel has killed more than 300 Palestinians and wounded nearly 3,000 near aid sites. Palestine has documented more than fifty-five-thousand-four-hundred Palestinian deaths after Israel started a genocidal war on Gaza since October 7, 2023."Russia, Ukraine complete fifth body swap under Istanbul deal"Russia and Ukraine have completed their fifth exchange of fallen soldiers’ bodies following a recent deal in Istanbul.Moscow returned the remains of one-thousand-two-hundred-forty-eight Ukrainian servicemen, while Kiev handed over fifty-one Russian bodies, bringing the total exchanged to six-thousand-sixty from Russia and seventy-eight from Ukraine.Both sides confirmed ongoing prisoner swaps and urgent medical transfers for the wounded, underscoring fragile but crucial cooperation amid continued conflict.""Baykar and Leonardo form joint venture for next-gen drones""In a landmark deal unveiled at the 55th Paris Air Show, Turkish defence giant Baykar and Italy’s aerospace titan Leonardo launched a joint venture — LBA Systems — to spearhead next-gen unmanned systems.Baykar Chairman Selchuk Bayraktar lauded Türkiye’s defence strides, while Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani stressed Europe’s urgent “drone gap.” Production is set to kick off swiftly, with plans to deploy drones on Italian Navy aircraft carriers by year’s end—fortifying European defence and NATO’s eastern flank."
At least 4 killed, 103 injured in Israel after Iran launches new wave of missiles"At least four people were killed and 103 injured in the latest Iranian missile strikes targeting Israel, Israeli media reported. Two of the injured are in serious condition, while seven others are in moderate condition. All casualties have been hospitalised."Israel continues to kill Palestinians across besieged Gaza"Israel has killed at least 16 more Palestinians across Gaza as its brutal war on the besieged enclave continues. The strikes targeted Gaza City, Nuseirat refugee camp, central Gaza, and Khan Younis as Israel's war on the enclave continues."Trump blocks Israeli plan to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader, US officials say"A senior US official told AFP that President Donald Trump blocked an Israeli plan to assassinate Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The official, speaking anonymously, said Washington warned Israel against the move. Israeli PM Netanyahu declined to confirm the report but stated, “We’ll do what we need to do.”"Turkish President Erdogan welcomes Trump’s remarks on ending Israel-Iran conflict"Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Donald Trump’s recent call for peace between Israel and Iran, warning of a regional catastrophe if tensions escalate. The two leaders spoke by phone, discussing bilateral ties and regional issues, according to Türkiye’s Communications Directorate. Trump earlier wrote on Truth Social that “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal.”UK names first female head of MI6, rewriting rules of spy gameThe UK has appointed the first woman to lead its Secret Intelligence Service (MI6), the Prime Minister's office announced.Blaise Metreweli will become the 18th chief of MI6, succeeding Sir Richard Moore, who will leave the service in the autumn.
- Iran launches fresh barrage of retaliatory missiles on Israel Israel kills 42 Palestinians, including aid seekers, in Gaza Israel attempts to assassinate Houthi leader Tens of thousands rally across US against Trump Gunman shoots Minnesota lawmaker, wounds another in targeted attack
Iran and Israel escalate strikes on key facilitiesIsrael kills at least 10 civilians in ongoing strikes across GazaArab leaders urge de-escalation as Israel-Iran trade missile attacksIran clashes with US and its ally Israel at UNSC*Türkiye slams Israel’s Iran strikes as ‘barbaric aggression'
Israel strikes Iran, kills top army and IRGC chiefs11 Palestinians killed as Israel readies occupied West Bank siegeIndia plane crash kills 265, one survivorEgypt detains 200+ before Gaza solidarity marchUNGA backs Gaza ceasefire, isolating US and Israel
Israel kills 80 Palestinians in Gaza, including aid seekersIsrael places two Gaza aid ship activists in solitary confinementUS judge says Trump can't detain Mahmoud KhalilUS evacuates personnel in Middle East amid Iran tensionsTürkiye to export 48 indigenous KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia
64 more Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks on GazaUK, allies sanction Israeli ministers Ben-Gvir, SmotrichUS, China reach trade 'framework' in London talksLA mayor imposes downtown curfew amid protestsNorth African aid convoy enters Libya for Gaza
Israel says activists from Gaza-bound aid ship at airport for deportationIsrael kills at least 57 Palestinians in blockaded Gaza Ukraine says 'massive' Russia drone attacks hit Kiev, OdessaGlobal outrage as Israel intercepts Gaza-bound aid ship MadleenCalifornia's Newsom accuses Trump of seeking 'civil war'
Children among dozens of Palestinians killed by Israel in GazaIsrael intercepts Gaza aid Madleen ship, detain all aboardBus crash in Malaysia kills 15 students, injures dozensColombian senator Uribe in critical condition after being shotTrump vows to send troops to secure Los Angeles amid chaos
- Gaza civilians face heavy attacks while seeking food: UNRWA Freedom Flotilla ship nears Gaza to challenge Israeli blockade Trump sends 2,000 troops amid LA immigration unrest Russia’s retaliation for drone strike still coming: US Nearly 2M Muslim pilgrims completed final Hajj rites
- Israel kills dozens of Palestinians on first day of Eid al Adha India invited to G7 summit in Canada after much speculation Netherlands calls snap elections for October 29 Russia mocks the feud between Elon Musk and Trump Trump confirms China rare earth exports to US
Hamas says it's ready for new talks on permanent Gaza ceasefireUS sanctions ICC judges over Netanyahu arrest warrantSudanese army blames RSF for deadly drone strike on civiliansTrump, Xi to meet after trade phone callElon Musk starts 'big beautiful' brawl against Trump
US veto of UN ceasefire draft greenlights Netanyahu's genocide: HamasIsrael signs record $14B in defence dealsRussia will respond to Ukraine's attacks on its airfields, Putin tells TrumpEU pledges $200M to support Syria after lifting sanctionsTrump announces new travel ban on over a dozen countries
Israeli strikes kill 60 Palestinians across GazaUNSC to vote on another Gaza truce resolutionLee Jae-myung sworn in as S Korea's new presidentZelenskyy announces military shakeup after Crimea bridge attackElon Musk blasts Trump's 'pork-filled' tax and spending bill
Israel to block vessel seeking to break Gaza siegeGermany signed $550M worth of arms exports to Israel since Oct 2023Trump open to meet Putin, Zelenskyy in TürkiyeEU warns of retaliation over US steel tariff hikeErdogan hails Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul as 'significant achievement'
Israel orders expansion of Gaza carnageChina 'rejects' US claim of violating tariff dealReady for new round of Gaza truce talks: HamasBangladesh begins trial of ex-PM for crimes against humanity Freedom Flotilla’s 'Madleen' sails for Gaza
- Hamas says it didn't reject US envoy's Gaza truce proposal Israel stops Arab-Islamic delegation visit to Ramallah Iran receives 'elements of US proposal' for nuclear deal via Oman India's top general admits jet losses in clash with Pakistan French interior minister faces backlash after calling PSG fans 'barbarians'
- Israel reportedly expels 250,000 Palestinians from Jabalia UN reports 'catastrophic' conditions in Gaza despite renewed aid Israel targets Macron and threatens to build 'Jewish Israeli state' in occupied West Bank China 'rehearsing for the real deal' in Taiwan: Hegseth Leadership-level Ukraine-Russia talks key for peace process: Erdogan
Türkiye celebrates Istanbul’s conquest by launching gas platform"Türkiye sent off its first floating production unit Osman Gazi, towards the Sakarya Gas Field in the Black Sea.President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led the ceremonial send-off in Istanbul, accompanied by top officials and a traditional mehter band.Marking the 572nd anniversary of the Conquest of Istanbul, the platform’s journey through the strait began with presidential blessings and radio communications.Expected to double gas output, Osman Gazi is seen as Türkiye’s bold stride towards energy independence."US flag returns to Syria after 12 years of frozen ties"In a landmark move, US envoy Thomas Barrack raised the American flag over the ambassador’s residence in Damascus.It was its first appearance since 2012.Though embassy operations remain suspended, Barrack’s visit signals renewed US-Syria engagement.Appointed on May 23, Barrack met with Syria's President Ahmed al Sharaa and reopened the residence with Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani.He reiterated US support for current leadership, hinted at peace talks with Israel and confirmed that sanctions had been lifted by President Trump, including Syria’s removal from the ""terror sponsor"" list."Ukraine open to Istanbul talks but wants Russia’s peace terms first"Jumping on to another volatile region, Ukraine has expressed its readiness to participate in peace talks planned to take place in Istanbul next week. However, Kiev insists that Russia must share its proposed peace terms in advance. Ukraine described Moscow’s refusal to do so as “non-constructive,” warning that the meeting risks being ineffective without transparency.Meanwhile, the United Nations has reported a sharp increase in civilian casualties, with over 13,000 civilians killed since the conflict began.The United States has called on Russia to agree to a comprehensive ceasefire, emphasising that there is no military solution to the conflict.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has also urged all parties to keep dialogue channels open despite stalled diplomatic efforts."South Koreans show record turnout as early voting continues"South Koreans turned out in record numbers on Friday for the second day of early voting, aiming to end months of political chaos sparked by ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol’s controversial martial law declaration and impeachment.With the economy under strain and a revolving door of interim leaders, liberal frontrunner Lee Jae-myung leads the race, followed by conservative Kim Moon-soo.Already, a record 21 percent of 44.4 million registered voters have cast ballots, with overseas turnout hitting historic highs ahead of the June 3 election.""Hamas: Israeli ceasefire response fails to meet core demands"Palestinian resistance group Hamas says Israel's response to a US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal falls short of its demands.The plan, put forward by US President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff, remains under Hamas review.Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes bombed southern Lebanon, striking several towns days after a deadly attack breached the 2024 truce.Separately in Gaza, the head of the United Nations relief agency for Palestinian refugees Philippe Lazzarini, warned that Israel’s war tactics, including starvation, threaten future generations in Gaza.He urged unhindered access to aid to avert a deepening humanitarian catastrophe."
UN describes Gaza as 'hungriest place on earth'"The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has described Gaza as “the hungriest place on earth,” calling for immediate access to aid deliveries. Spokesperson Jens Laerke said nearly 180,000 pallets of food and life-saving supplies are ready to enter but remain blocked, despite being cleared and paid for. Israel has prevented food aid from entering the enclave since March, worsening the humanitarian crisis."Israel kills five more aid workers in Gaza"Five aid workers from the Istanbul-based IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation, working with the UN World Food Programme, have been killed in recent Israeli attacks on Gaza, the organisation announced. Two others were seriously wounded in the strikes over the past two days. IHH confirmed the deaths in a statement on X, condemning the attacks by Israeli forces."Russia proposes second round of direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on Monday"Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced Moscow has formally proposed June 2 as the date for a second round of direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul. The proposal follows initial negotiations held on May 16 in the same city. Lavrov credited Türkiye, United States and Saudi Arabia for helping create the conditions to resume the dialogue."US court blocks Trump's tariffs from going into effect"A US trade court has blocked President Donald Trump’s ""Liberation Day"" tariffs, ruling he exceeded his authority by imposing broad duties on imports from trade-surplus nations. The Court of International Trade stated that only Congress holds the constitutional power to regulate foreign commerce, which cannot be overridden by presidential emergency powers. The judges emphasised that the decision was based on legal limits, not the effectiveness of the tariff strategy."Bangladesh sends first mango shipment to China as ties with India sour"Bangladesh sent its first consignment of mangoes to China, a symbolic move marking deepening ties with Beijing following strained relations with India. The export comes as China courts Dhaka in the wake of the 2024 uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who later fled to New Delhi. China’s ambassador hailed the shipment as a “historic moment,” standing alongside Bangladeshi officials during the send-off."
Last-ditch efforts for Gaza ceasefire underway"Egypt, Qatar and the US have come together to present Hamas with a revised ceasefire proposal, originally drafted by Washington's Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. Sources familiar with the talks say this is being described as the last chance to make a deal.The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has been given 48 hours to respond."Israel plans to seize 75% of Gaza"Israel is said to be accelerating its military offensive, aiming to seize control of about seventy-five percent of the territory within the next two months. That means nearly two million Palestinians would be forced into just a quarter of Gaza.A recent high-level briefing reportedly laid out these plans. By July, Israeli forces would occupy around two hundred and seventy five square kilometres of the coastal enclave—out of Gaza's total three hundred and sixty five.The Palestinian population would be confined to three areas: Gaza City in the north, central Gaza's refugee camps, and the Masawi area down south."US Golden Dome project is 'nuclear war scenario': North Korea"North Korea is slamming the United States over its new Golden Dome missile defence project, calling it a dangerous step toward nuclear war.President Trump announced the programme, worth one hundred and seventy five billion dollars, on May 20th, saying a design had been chosen and a lead appointed to manage the effort.In a statement released by state media, North Korea's Foreign Ministry accused Washington of arrogance and high-handedness. Officials there described the project as part of a ""space-based nuclear war scenario"" and said it perfectly reflects the ""America First"" mindset."US urges Israel to 'stay united' on Iran"The US is urging Israel to remain unified as talks continue with Iran over its nuclear programme. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said she had a direct and honest conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the ongoing negotiations.According to her, President Trump specifically asked her to deliver the message in person, stressing the need for unity while discussions play out."Anti-Muslim lawmaker Wilders unveils 10-point migration crackdown plan"Dutch far-right politician Geert Wilders is once again stirring controversy with a new ten-point plan aimed at slashing immigration. He's also putting pressure on the ruling coalition, warning he might pull his support if his demands aren't met.The plan includes some hardline measures like deploying the army to secure land borders and turning away all asylum-seekers at the point of entry. He also wants a temporary freeze on family reunification for accepted refugees."
Israeli air strike on Gaza school kills over 20 Palestinians"At least 20 Palestinians were killed and dozens were wounded after an Israeli air strike hit a Gaza school sheltering displaced families, local officials say.Women and children were among the victims, with some bodies severely burned. Israel's genocidal war, now in its five-hundred-ninety-seventh day, has claimed over fifty-three-thousand-nine-hundred Palestinian lives, with more than eleven-thousand still missing under the rubble. Global outrage is growing as humanitarian conditions for Palestinians worsen due to the Israeli blockade. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Ministry has overspent its war budget by four-point-seventeen billion dollars, sparking heated tensions with the Finance Ministry, which warns the gap may reach $7 billion. "Putin has gone absolutely crazy after Ukraine attack: Trump"US President Donald Trump has fiercely condemned his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, saying he’s “gone absolutely crazy” after Moscow’s massive weekend missile attack on Ukraine. Trump accused Putin of deliberately killing civilians and warned that trying to seize all of Ukraine could trigger Russia’s downfall. While distancing himself from the conflict, Trump calls this conflict “Zelenskyy’s, Putin’s, and Biden’s war.” The latest Russian assault is recorded as one of the largest strikes since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began three years ago."US delays EU tariffs while negotiating trade terms"US President Donald Trump has agreed to delay a looming 50 percent tariff on EU goods until July 9, following talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Trump called the extension a ""privilege,"" while von der Leyen pledged swift, decisive negotiations to secure a fair deal. The move signals a temporary thaw in US-EU trade tensions, although key disputes over tariffs and regulations still loom, calming jittery global markets for now."Pakistan channels surplus power into bitcoin mining"In a bold tech-forward move, Pakistan will channel 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity to bitcoin mining and AI data centres, the finance ministry announced. Spearheaded by the Pakistan Crypto Council, the initiative aims to harness excess power, boost high-tech employment, and attract global investment. Amid rising tariffs and a solar surge, the plan marks phase one of a sweeping digital infrastructure rollout designed to monetise idle energy and reshape the nation’s tech landscape."Fenerbahce Beko win their second EuroLeague title"Turkish basketball club Fenerbahce Beko claims their second Turkish Airlines EuroLeague title, beating AS Monaco 81-70 in a thrilling final. The Istanbul giants dazzled with sharp shooting and relentless defence, led by standout performances from Nigel Hayes and Marko Guduric. Under coach Sarunas Jasikevicius’s strategic guidance, Fenerbahce sealed a historic win, becoming the only Turkish club with multiple EuroLeague crowns."
- Israel keeps Gaza crossings shut, enforces starvation: officials Israel hits 10 Gaza hospitals, clinics in one week: report President Erdogan meets Syrian leader, vows continued support Russia, Ukraine swap 307 prisoners each in second exchange UAE hits record May heat at 51.6°C
- UNRWA: Gaza aid just a 'needle in a haystack' US eases 50-year Syria sanctions after Türkiye, Saudi push Russia, Ukraine hold largest prisoner swap of war Iran calls latest US nuclear talks 'most professional so far' Judge blocks Trump’s foreign student ban at Harvard
Israeli air strikes kill 79 Palestinians in Gaza Netanyahu reaffirms intentions to fully reoccupy GazaNorth Korea condemns warship accident as 'criminal act'Republicans stop Qatari jet gift for Trump’s Air Force OneIsraeli embassy staffers shot dead in Washington, DC
Gaza reports more than 300 malnutrition deaths"In Gaza, Palestinian authorities say that nearly 330 people have died and over 300 miscarriages have occurred during Israel's 80-day blockade, which has completely shut down border crossings and halted the flow of humanitarian aid.According to the Gaza Media Office, the enforced starvation and lack of basic supplies, including food and medicine, have led to 326 deaths due to malnutrition. They report more than 300 miscarriages during this period. The office described the blockade as part of what it called a broader Israeli campaign of genocide."Israel preparing strike on Iranian nuclear facilities: report"CNN is reporting that US intelligence has picked up new signs that Israel may be preparing to launch a military strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. This comes even as indirect negotiations continue between Washington and Tehran over Iran's nuclear programme.Officials say Israeli leadership hasn't made a final decision yet, but intercepted communications and troop movements strongly suggest preparations are underway."Trump admin deports Asian immigrants to South Sudan in defiance of court order"Lawyers say the Trump administration has deported two Asian immigrants to South Sudan, despite a federal court order forbidding it.The two men, one from Myanmar and the other from Vietnam, were being held in immigration custody in Texas. Their attorneys were blindsided when they were informed that the pair had been placed on a flight, along with up to 10 others, and deported to South Sudan."Türkiye, US committed to increase cooperation on stability in Syria: statement"Türkiye and the United States say they're deepening cooperation on stabilising Syria.In a joint statement released after a high-level meeting in Washington DC, the two sides said they had discussed shared priorities in the region. The talks were led by Türkiye's Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz and US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau."Trump launches $175B 'Golden Dome' missile defence plan"US President Donald Trump has officially unveiled his ambitious ""Golden Dome"" missile defence programme, and it comes with a hefty price tag: 175 billion dollars over the next three years.Trump said the system has been designed to work alongside America's current defence infrastructure and is expected to be fully operational by the end of his term. He claims it'll be capable of intercepting missiles from anywhere in the world, even those launched from space."
Houthis announce 'maritime blockade' on Israel's Haifa portUS may abandon Israel if Gaza war continues, Trump team reportedly warnsNo deadline can be set for Ukraine memorandum: Kremlin spokespersonTürkiye-US working group on Syria to convene in Washington, DCTelegram's Durov says French spy chief asked him to ban conservative Romanian voices
Israel strikes Gaza hospitals amid rising death toll – 17 killedEuropeans vote across Romania, Poland, PortugalSuicide attack at Mogadishu military camp kills 11Australia sends Abrams tanks to Ukraine China slaps tariffs on US, EU, Asian plastic imports
- Israel kills over 200 in Gaza, displaces 300,000 in two days Arab League calls for peacekeepers in Palestinian territories Trump schedules talks with Putin and Zelenskyy to end the conflict ASEAN aims to revive its regional monetary fund: Malaysia Türkiye announces new Black Sea gas reserve boosting energy supply
- Russia, Ukraine hold breakthrough talks in Istanbul US mulls Gaza deportation plan to Libya North Korea’s leader calls for war readiness Trump slams Supreme Court over migrant ruling Microsoft admits supplying AI to Israeli army
Gaza death toll from Thursday's Israeli strikes hit 136Crucial meetings in Istanbul set stage for Russia-Ukraine talksUAE to invest $1.4T in US over next 10 years: Abu DhabiStable Syria means 'dramatic improvements in the region': USZelenskyy says Türkiye plays 'multifaceted' role in diplomacy
Ukraine, Russia set for first direct talks in Istanbul in 3 yearsIsrael snubs US envoy as Gaza offensive ragesGulf leaders call for ending Gaza war in summit with TrumpPresident Erdogan has stood by Syrian people: AlsharaaQatar hails Trump visit, inks $1.2T in deals
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, May 14th.Palestine says Israel continues to 'weaponise aid' to punish Gaza"Palestine's representative to the UN, Riyad Mansour, says Israel is using starvation as a deliberate weapon in Gaza. He accused Israeli authorities of systematically blocking aid and manipulating its delivery—not just occasionally, but in a way he described as deliberate and ongoing for over two months.Mansour told the UN Security Council that this isn't just mismanagement, it's what he calls ""engineered starvation""."Trump's Arab ally worked discreetly to secure release of US-Israeli captive:sources"Sources have told TRT World that the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander was the result of quiet, behind-the-scenes diplomacy, and a key figure in this was American-Arab activist Bishara Bahbah.According to the sources, a senior Hamas official reached out to Bahbah last month in search of a communication channel to Steve Witkoff, who served as Donald Trump's Middle East envoy. That backchannel eventually led to Alexander's release, carried out by Hamas's armed wing, the Qassam Brigades."Celebrations in Damascus as Syria calls Trump's decision to lift sanctions 'a turning point'"Over in Syria, officials are celebrating what they see as a major shift in US policy.President Donald Trump's move to lift sanctions on Syria is being hailed as a ""turning point"" by the country's leadership.Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani welcomed the announcement, saying it marks a significant moment for the Syrian people. He called it a step toward greater stability, economic independence, and the chance to rebuild after years of war."Trump secures $600B Saudi investment pledge on Gulf tour"Donald Trump has locked in a massive $600 billion investment pledge from Saudi Arabia during his Gulf tour.As Trump stepped off Air Force One, he was greeted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Later, the two signed a major agreement in Riyadh that includes cooperation in energy, defence, mining and more.The deal also features what Washington is calling the biggest-ever defence sales agreement between the two countries—nearly $142 billion worth of commitments in that area alone."Spain chooses Turkish HURJET as advanced trainer for its air force"In a notable boost for Turkish aerospace, Spain has picked Türkiye's HURJET as the next advanced jet trainer for its air force. The news comes just as the 2025 International Defence and Security Exhibition (FEINDEF) wraps up. According to Spanish aviation media outlet Avion Revue Internacional, an official signing is expected this Wednesday between the Spain's defence industry and HURJET's manufacturer Turkish Aerospace.The agreement sets the stage for future collaboration and the formal inclusion of HURJET into the Spanish Air and Space Force's training fleet."
Palestine accuses Israel of 'engineered starvation' in GazaTrump's Arab ally worked discreetly to secure release of US-Israeli captive: sourcesCelebrations in Damascus as Syria calls Trump's decision to lift sanctions 'a turning point'Trump secures $600B Saudi investment pledge on Gulf tourSpain chooses Turkish HURJET as advanced trainer for its air force
Tensions rise between Israel, US over Trump-Hamas deal Rights groups sue UK for enabling Israel's Gaza genocideTripoli residents told to stay home as clashes erupt in Libya's capitalUS, China pause trade war for 90 daysA historic blow to terror: PKK declares dissolution and disarmament
Türkiye welcomes Russia-Ukraine peace talks President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal to resume Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on May 15, expressing Türkiye’s readiness to host negotiations. In Sunday’s phone call, Erdogan and Putin discussed bilateral ties, energy projects and regional issues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed his attendance.Erdogan also spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron, stressing cooperation for peace. US President Donald Trump, on the other hand, urged Ukraine to accept Putin’s proposal immediately. Russian and Ukrainian officials met in Istanbul in 2022 to discuss ongoing conflict.Hamas to release US-Israeli captive as Washington criticises IsraelHamas announced it will release 21-year-old US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander as part of direct ceasefire talks with the US.The Palestinian resistance group linked his release to the reopening of aid crossings. Trump welcomed the move as a gesture of goodwill towards Washington and mediators Egypt and Qatar.Meanwhile, Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing his government of prolonging the Gaza war and stalling hostage deals, during a meeting with Israeli families.Israel has killed over fifty-two-thousand-eight-hundred Palestinians in its genocidal war on Gaza since October 2023.Pakistan provides details of its strikes on Indian targetsPakistan claimed to have struck 26 Indian military sites and deployed drones over major Indian cities, including New Delhi, in recent fighting, as both nuclear-armed rivals observe a cautious cessation of hostilities since Saturday. Pakistan also said it had downed five Indian jets.The Indian Air Force acknowledged losses without giving details but confirmed that all pilots had returned safely. Reuters reported three jet crashes in India-administered Kashmir.Despite the ceasefire, border residents remain displaced, while cities such as Jammu and Amritsar remained subdued amid ongoing security concerns.Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated that the US would work with India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir dispute.Severe flooding in DRC leaves 62 dead, dozens missingSevere flooding in the Democratic Republic of Congo's South Kivu province has claimed at least 62 lives, with 50 people still missing. The deluge, triggered by torrential rains, struck at 5 am local time on Friday, flooding Kasaba village in the Ngandja sector. Search efforts are hampered by damaged infrastructure and communication breakdowns, with only the Red Cross assisting. It followed the recent flooding in Kinshasa that killed 33 people. The region is already grappling with ongoing conflict with rebels, further complicating the humanitarian response.Trump declares 'total reset' in US-China relationsUS President Donald Trump announced a ""very good meeting"" on trade with Chinese officials in Switzerland, claiming a ""total reset"" in US-China relations. The talks, which began in Geneva on Saturday, resumed on Sunday. The US delegation, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, met with Vice Premier He Lifeng of China. The negotiations are the first face-to-face talks since both nations imposed trade tariffs.
India, Pakistan agree to ceasefire after border clashesPalestinian Water Authority warns Gaza is dying of thirstUkraine allies threaten Russia with sanctions if it rejects 30-day ceasefireIran vows to defend nuclear rights amidst US talksSoviet spacecraft falls to Earth after 53 years in orbit
- Pakistan launches retaliatory military operation against IndiaPakistan has launched 'Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos' in retaliation against India, targeting military sites in Beas and destroying an S-400 missile defence system, according to state broadcaster PTV. The strikes come after India allegedly attacked Pakistani territory, prompting Islamabad to respond with what it calls a “solid structure” of defence. India condemned the strikes, labelling them as a "blatant violation of sovereignty" and vowed to counter any further aggression. UN: 70% of Gaza under Israeli military orders or militarised zonesThe UN says 70% of Gaza is now either under Israeli military control or displacement orders, severely hampering humanitarian efforts. UN spokesperson Farhan Haq criticised Israeli authorities for blocking repairs to a damaged fibre optic cable vital for communication in the region. Despite recent attempts to access fuel supplies in Rafah, the UN reports continued challenges in securing critical resources for humanitarian work. Turkish FM Fidan: 'I was poisoned in assassination attempt'Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has revealed he was targeted in an assassination attempt involving arsenic and mercury poisoning five years ago. Speaking on 24 TV, Fidan said he was exposed to high levels of the toxic metals in a plot he linked to terrorist groups. The former intelligence chief also accused opposition parties of using information from criminal networks to undermine him, calling it a "dangerous path". 80% tariff on Chinese goods 'seems right': TrumpUS President Trump has endorsed an 80% tariff on Chinese goods ahead of key trade talks in Switzerland, saying it "seems right" in a Truth Social post. Trump has already raised tariffs to 145% on Chinese imports, escalating tensions with Beijing, which has retaliated with its own levies on US goods. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is set to meet China’s economic chief He Lifeng, as both sides attempt to resolve the trade standoff.Turkish student Rumeysa Ozturk released on bail in USA US federal judge has ordered the release of Turkish PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk, who was detained for co-authoring an op-ed on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the school’s student newspaper. The judge ruled Ozturk posed no flight risk and lifted travel restrictions, allowing her to return to Massachusetts. Ozturk, a doctoral student at Tufts University, had been held by immigration authorities for over six weeks.
International media authenticates Pakistan's claims of downing Indian Jets"Militaries worldwide will closely scrutinise a dogfight between China-made Pakistani jets and France-made Indian Rafale fighters, seeking insights that could give them an edge in future conflicts.A Chinese-made Pakistani fighter jet shot down at least two Indian military aircraft on Wednesday, two US officials confirmed, marking a potential major milestone for Beijing's advanced jet.Pakistan has claimed to have downed at least five Indian jets, including three Rafales, in a battle involving a reported thirty Pakistani and seventy Indian fighter aircraft.Reuters and BBC have authenticated multiple videos that appear to support Pakistan's claim."Israel dropped 100,000 tons of explosives over Gaza "Authorities in Gaza have said that Israel has dropped a hundred thousand tonnes of explosives on Gaza since launching its genocide nineteen months ago, killing or leaving missing over sixty-two thousand Palestinians and committing more than twelve thousand massacres.Israel completely erased over two thousand two hundred families from civil registries.The campaign also targeted cemeteries, with Israeli forces stealing two thousand three hundred bodies from Gaza graves and establishing seven mass graves inside hospitals, five hundred twenty-nine of whom have been recovered so far."JD Vance says India-Pakistan conflict 'fundamentally none of our business'"US Vice President JD Vance has said that Washington wanted to see a ""de-escalation"" in a worsening conflict between India and Pakistan, but that it was ""fundamentally none of our business.""Vance, who has been a proponent of US disengagement from international conflicts, said that the US is not going to get involved in the middle of a war and has nothing to do with America's ability to control it."Trump reportedly cuts ties with Netanyahu over 'manipulation' concerns"US President Donald Trump has decided to cut off direct contact with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.According to Israeli media, Trump made the decision after close associates told Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer that the president believes that Netanyahu is manipulating him."Robert Francis Prevost becomes first American Pope"Robert Francis Prevost has been elected the first pope from the United States.A moderate who was close to Pope Francis and spent years as a missionary in Peru, he became the Catholic Church's 267th pontiff, taking the papal name Leo fourteen.Cardinals chose a new pope to lead the world's 1.4 billion Catholics, sending up white smoke from the Sistine Chapel on their second day of voting in conclave."
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, May 8th.Pakistan shoots down Indian jets as tensions soar"To calm tensions between the two arch-rivals India and Pakistan, world leaders have urged them to stop fighting.US President Donald Trump called for both nations to cease hostilities, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered diplomatic support to de-escalate the situation.Pakistan has said Indian strikes resulted in the deaths of 31 Pakistani civilians and injuries to 57 others, vowing to respond.It also said its air force brought down five Indian fighter jets and one drone in an act of ""self-defence” — including three Rafale aircraft."Israel kills over 50 Palestinians in continued Gaza bombardment"At least 54 Palestinians were killed and dozens more wounded in fresh Israeli air strikes across Gaza, according to medics.In Al-Tuffah, 16 Palestinians were killed in Israeli shelling of a school-turned-shelter, while 22 others were killed in an attack on a market in Gaza City.Further casualties occurred in Khan Younis, Bani Suhaila and various refugee camps.Gaza’s government media office confirmed that Israel has targeted over 234 shelters.Total blockade on Gaza has caused severe famine among Palestinians, with the world urging Tel Aviv to allow aid to flow.Israel has killed over 52,600 people in the Palestinian enclave, mostly women and children, since October 7, 2023."US court blocks Trump admin's transfer bid for detained Turkish student"A federal appeals court has ordered the transfer of Turkish doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk from an immigration jail in Louisiana to a court in Vermont, where a bail hearing is scheduled for May 9.Ozturk was arrested in March after co-authoring a critical op-ed on Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza.The ruling rejects the Trump administration’s attempt to block her transfer.Ozturk's legal team argues her detention violates free speech rights."Russia declares ceasefire with Ukraine during Victory Day"Russia declares a unilateral ceasefire lasting until midnight on 11 May, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, a national holiday, commemorating the 1945 defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.President Vladimir Putin’s move to pause hostilities during the national holiday met resistance from Kiev. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the initiative and warned foreign dignitaries against attending Moscow’s celebrations, citing safety concerns.The Kremlin hit back, labelling the warning a “threat,” while spokesman Dmitry Peskov vowed a “swift and effective” military response to any breach by Ukraine."Black smoke rises again as Vatican delays papal decision"Tension runs high in Vatican City as black smoke once again billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signalling no decision yet on the next pope.The 133 cardinals, the most diverse group ever assembled, began their second day of secret voting Thursday.With no clear favourite, speculation swirls—from Italy’s Pizzaballa to Sri Lanka’s Ranjith.As Catholic pilgrims crowd St Peter’s Square, hope lingers as the Christian world awaits the white smoke that will herald the 267th pontiff."
Casualties as India attacks Pakistan and Islamabad 'downs Indian jets' in retaliationPakistan says India has launched strikes at six different sites, killing at least 26 people and injuring 46 more. In response, Islamabad claims its Air Force has shot down five Indian warplanes and some drones, calling the Indian attack ""cowardly and shameful"At a pre-dawn news conference in Rawalpindi, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said India used a variety of weapons to hit six targets, resulting in 24 impact sites. He added that the strikes hit locations inside Pakistan and in Pakistan-administered Kashmir—including a mosque.It's a shame, Trump says as India launches attack on PakistanOver in Washington, US President Donald Trump reacted to the India-Pakistan escalation by calling it ""a shame"", and said he hoped the situation would cool off quickly.Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said they'd just gotten word of the strikes as they were walking into the Oval Office. He noted that many people expected something like this might happen, given the long and tense history between the two countries.Israeli strikes on school shelter kill 31 PalestiniansIn Gaza, another tragedy: Israeli strikes on a school being used as a shelter for displaced families have killed at least 31 people and wounded dozens more.According to Palestinian civil defence, the air strikes hit a school in the Bureij refugee camp, located in central Gaza. A spokesperson said it was sheltering many who had already been forced to flee their homes due to ongoing Israeli war.Germany's Merz elected chancellor in second roundFriedrich Merz has been elected Germany's new chancellor after a dramatic second round of voting in parliament. The 69-year-old leader of the conservative CDU/CSU alliance secured three hundred and twenty five votes, just enough for an absolute majority, after falling short in the first round.He now heads a coalition government alongside the centre-left Social Democrats, taking over from outgoing chancellor Olaf Scholz.Turkish intelligence foils another pager bomb plot in LebanonTurkish intelligence has reportedly foiled yet another plot involving explosive devices disguised as everyday items—this time, pagers and chargers. According to details shared by the Sabah newspaper, Türkiye's National Intelligence Organization, or MIT, uncovered the plot at Istanbul Airport in 2024, though the news has only just come to light.The intercepted shipment had come from Hong Kong and was headed to Lebanon. Inside were 1,300 pagers and over 700 chargers, all cleverly hidden in boxes labelled as food choppers.
Israel aiming for 'complete occupation' of Gaza under renewed assaultIsrael appears to be pushing for full occupation of Gaza in its latest military assault. That's according to Culture Minister Miki Zohar, who told Israeli public broadcaster KAN that such a move could put the remaining hostages in danger.Meanwhile, far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, told Channel 13 that Israel is finally going to occupy Gaza and that the country needs to stop being afraid of using the word "occupation"UN warns Israel is weaponising water to destroy Gaza, its peopleA UN expert is sounding the alarm over what he calls a ""silent but lethal bomb"" in Gaza: not from missiles, but from a lack of clean water. Pedro Arrojo-Agudo, the UN's special rapporteur on the human right to water and sanitation, says Israel's destruction of water infrastructure and restriction of access to drinking water is fuelling a massive humanitarian crisis.He warned that cutting off water in a war zone like this is the equivalent of dropping a devastating, invisible weapon.France to host Al Sharaa, marking Syrian President's first European visitSyrian President Ahmed al Sharaa is set to visit Europe for the first time since taking office, and his first stop will be France. French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting him on Wednesday, according to the French presidency.Macron plans to use the meeting to express France's commitment to a future Syria, one that's ""free, stable and inclusive of all its people"".The French president will also raise key concerns, including regional stability, especially in Lebanon, and the ongoing fight against terrorism.India's 'unfounded allegations' against Pakistan inflaming tensions in South Asia — OICThe Organisation of Islamic Cooperation is voicing serious concern over rising tensions in South Asia. The 57-member group said that India's ""unfounded allegations"" against Pakistan are adding fuel to an already volatile situation.In a joint statement, the OIC said the accusations are making things worse and stressed its consistent stance against terrorism.Trump wants stronger US–Türkiye alliance: New US envoy to AnkaraThe new US ambassador to Türkiye says President Trump is aiming for a much stronger partnership with Ankara. Thomas Barrack, speaking to reporters upon arrival in the Turkish capital, said the president's message was simple: it's time to take the US-Türkiye alliance to the level it truly deserves.Barrack, who expressed pride in being on the land of his ancestors, added that the two countries have always had a solid relationship, but now it's time to make it extraordinary.
Gaza's health system nears collapse as UNRWA issues urgent alarmGaza’s healthcare is on the brink, warns the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.The agency says one-third of vital medical supplies are gone, with another third vanishing fast—blaming Israel’s siege and relentless bombardment.Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini grimly cautions that the blockade risks silently killing more women and children beyond the bombs.Israel's military invasion in Gaza has killed over fifty-two thousand four hundred Palestinians since October 2023, while Tel Aviv faces genocide charges at the International Court of Justice.Yemeni Houthis target Tel Aviv airport with hypersonic missile strikeYemeni Houthis said they have launched a hypersonic ballistic missile targeting Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, warning international airlines of the airport’s unsafe conditions.Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree confirmed the missile hit the target, and another struck Ashkelon.Israeli authorities suspended flights at the airport after a missile landed near Terminal 3, injuring six people.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation against the Houthis and their Iranian backers.In response, US warplanes conducted airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen.Romania's presidential election heads to a second roundRomania will proceed to a second round of presidential elections on May 18, following the failure of any candidate to secure the required 50+1 percent majority in the first round.Far-right George Simion led with over 40.2 percent of the vote, based on results from over 98 percent of ballots.He was followed by Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan, who garnered 20.8 percent, and Crin Antonescu of the Social Democratic Party, who earned nearly 20.5 percent.The first-round victory of pro-Russian candidate Calin Gorgescu was annulled in November 2024 following allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference, which Moscow has denied.Simion emerged to replace Gorgescu after his ban from the new race.Fighting in eastern DRC escalates as rebels take key townM23 rebels and allies seized Lunyasenge, a strategic fishing town on Lake Edward’s west coast in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, after deadly clashes with the army that left 17 dead, including seven soldiers.The Congolese military condemned the assault as a blatant ceasefire violation.As rebels advance in North Kivu, Kinshasa warns of retaliation.Rwanda faces renewed accusations of backing M23, amid ongoing peace talks in Doha and Washington.Kigali denies any involvement.Trump imposes full tariff on non-US moviesPresident Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 100 percent tariff on foreign-made films, claiming Hollywood of being ""devastated"" as US filmmakers turn to other countries for production incentives.The decision, shared via Truth Social media platform, follows criticism of his aggressive trade policies.While the full impact on the movie industry remains unclear, Trump insists it’s a matter of national security.Meanwhile, talks with China and other nations on trade deals continue, with potential agreements on the horizon.
Israeli army calls up tens of thousands of reservists to expand offensive in Gaza; and, Erdogan announces Türkiye among world's top three in UAV technology at TEKNOFEST.
Israel bombs three Syrian cities after presidential palace strike, and Thousands of Turkish Cypriots turn out for TEKNOFEST in Lefkosa... listen for more
UN calls on Israel to lift 'brutal blockade' of humanitarian aid to GazaThe UN has called on Israel to lift its blockade of humanitarian aid delivery into Gaza, saying blocking the desperately needed aid inflicts a "cruel collective punishment".Tom Fletcher, the UN relief chief, said that: "International law is unequivocal: As the occupying power, Israel must allow humanitarian support in. Aid, and the civilian lives it saves, should never be a bargaining chip."Fletcher also said: "The humanitarian movement is independent, impartial and neutral. We believe that all civilians are equally worthy of protection," underlining that they remain ready to save as many lives as they can, despite the risks."US urges India to avoid broader conflict after Kashmir attackUS Vice President JD Vance has said that Washington hopes that India's response to the recent attack in India-administered Kashmir does not lead to a broader regional conflict.Vance said that Washington hoped Pakistan would cooperate with India to hunt down those responsible for the attack.He said that: "Pakistan, to the extent that they're responsible, cooperates with India to make sure that the terrorists sometimes operating in their territory are hunted down and dealt with. That's how we hope this unfolds. We're obviously in close contact. We'll see what happens."Deadly drone attack in Kherson, Moscow blames KievA Ukrainian drone strike on a market area in the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine’s Kherson region killed at least seven people and wounded over 20 others, the Moscow-installed governor said.Vladimir Saldo, the region's Russian-backed governor, accused Ukrainian forces of carrying out the strike in a crowded market district in the city of Oleshky.Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement calling the incident a “terrorist” act and accused Ukraine of escalating the war while sabotaging diplomatic efforts.Pakistan ups diplomacy amid tensions with IndiaPakistani leaders doubled diplomatic efforts amid tensions with India following a deadly attack in India-administered Kashmir, according to a statement from the prime minister’s office in Islamabad.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani that Pakistan condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations, reiterating his offer for a credible, transparent and neutral international investigation into the Pahalgam attack.Sharif also met with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad, where the two discussed the situation in the region, thanking to China for its strong and steadfast support to Pakistan in the prevailing situation in South Asia.High technology, AI key to new world, says TEKNOFEST headThe head of Türkiye's premier technology event, TEKNOFEST, highlighted that high technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are the keys to the new world, stressing that AI, when combined with the right purpose and ethical values, can provide humanity with a much better future.Selcuk Bayraktar, speaking at the opening ceremony of TEKNOFEST, emphasised that AI can enable groundbreaking innovations in health, equal educational opportunity, and countless opportunities that will make life easier.He also underscored that the country should be a global centre of attraction for technology and science in the heart of the Mediterranean.
UK calls Israel's blockade of aid delivery into Gaza 'horrendous'The British Foreign Secretary is once again raising alarms about Israel's ongoing blockade of aid into Gaza, describing the humanitarian crisis as devastating.David Lammy, speaking during a session of the International Relations and Defence Committee, called the blockade ""horrendous"" and emphasised just how dire the situation has become — from the sheer level of suffering to the massive need on the ground and the staggering loss of life.Lammy said he had spoken directly with Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar a few weeks ago, making it clear that Israel has responsibilities when it comes to humanitarian access.Israeli bombardment kills several Palestinians, wounds others in GazaIsraeli air strikes on northern Gaza have killed several Palestinians and left many others injured, according to local medical sources cited by WAFA news agency. The attacks targeted the town of Beit Hanoon.This latest escalation follows Israel's decision back on March 18 to unilaterally end the ceasefire in Gaza. Since then, the renewed bombardment has killed hundreds, including over 100 children.Health officials in Gaza report at least 2,308 people have died and nearly 6,000 more have been wounded in the weeks since the assault resumed.Rubio tells India to 'work with' Pakistan to de-escalate Kashmir tensionsAfter a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir pushed tensions to the brink, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is urging India and Pakistan to take a step back and ease hostilities.Rubio spoke with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing support for India's fight against extremism. But he also called on both sides to work together to investigate the attack that left more than two dozen people dead.In his call with Jaishankar, Rubio conveyed US solidarity but also urged caution. India has blamed Pakistan for backing the attack in Pahalgam, though it hasn't presented evidence so far. Pakistan, for its part, denies the allegations and is pushing for an international investigation.US, Ukraine sign 'historic' minerals dealThe United States and Ukraine have signed what both are calling a ""historic"" economic partnership, giving Washington access to Ukraine's rare mineral resources after weeks of tough negotiations.Kiev says it has secured control over its own resources as part of the deal. The agreement comes amid pressure from US President Donald Trump, who's been calling on Ukraine to ""pay back"" the support Washington has provided in helping repel Russian aggression.India's next census will include caste status, marking a 'historic' shiftIndia has announced it will include caste identification in its next official census — the first time since independence that the government will formally record such data.It's a landmark move in a country where caste remains deeply tied to social and economic status. While higher castes continue to benefit from cultural privilege, lower castes often face systemic discrimination.This change could reshape India's political and social landscape. Estimates suggest that more than two-thirds of India's 1.4 billion people fall into historically disadvantaged castes, making this new census a potentially transformative moment in the country's long struggle with inequality.
Global outcry at ICJ as Israel faces accusations of starving PalestiniansAt the International Court of Justice, South Africa accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon in Gaza, calling it a breach of international law.Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Colombia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, and Spain echoed concerns, citing Israel’s disregard for humanitarian obligations and UN rulings.Representatives warned of a collapsing aid system and worsening famine, urging global action and reaffirming support for Palestinian self-determination amid what was described as an unfolding humanitarian catastrophe.Israel, in its genocidal war, has killed more than fifty-two thousand three hundred Palestinians since October 2023 and wounded hundreds of thousands of others.UN chief urges two-state solution in Israeli war on PalestineUnited Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has pushed countries to "take irreversible action towards implementing a two-state solution" between Israel and the Palestinians ahead of an international conference in June."I encourage Member States to go beyond affirmations, and to think creatively about the concrete steps they will take to support a viable two-state solution before it is too late," Guterres told a Security Council meeting on Tuesday.France and Saudi Arabia will co-host the conference at the United Nations in June.Daesh-linked militants attack mourners in Nigerian village, killing 15A wave of terror engulfed Kwaple village in Nigeria’s Borno State when Daesh-linked militants stormed in on motorcycles, unleashing a hail of bullets on mourners and killing at least 15 people."The ISWAP militants opened fire on the mourners and pursued them on motorcycles into the bush as they tried to flee," Ayuba Alamson, a community leader in Chibok, said.Local leaders are gripped with dread, warning that the true death toll may be far higher, with scores still missing in the chaos.Trump marks 100 days, promises defence investmentsUS President Donald Trump kicked off a pair of events in Michigan, celebrating his first 100 days in office.Speaking to a packed rally in Macomb, Trump touted the country’s economic growth, declaring, "Companies are coming back to Michigan."Highlighting a $1 trillion defence investment, he praised Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer for securing the Selfridge Air National Guard Base. While his approval rating dropped to 42 percent, according to a Reuters-Ipsos poll, Trump continues to promote his administration’s successes, claiming the best start in US presidential history.BRICS unites in opposition to Trump's tariff policyBRICS foreign ministers, including those from China and Russia, criticised the growing "trade protectionism" during talks in Rio de Janeiro, a direct response to US President Dondald Trump’s tariffs.Brazil's foreign minister, Mauro Vieira, emphasised the group's ""strong rejection"" of such policies, without naming Trump.Amid escalating tariffs, China has imposed 125 percent duties on US goods, while the US has slapped 10 percent tariffs on numerous countries.The ministers agreed on a unified stance against trade conflicts just ahead of the leaders’ summit in three months.
Amnesty International accuses Israel of 'live-streamed genocide' in GazaAmnesty International, in a report, accuses Israel of perpetrating a “live-streamed genocide” in Gaza, underlining systematic mass slaughter, starvation and ruthless displacement of Palestinians."States watched on as if powerless, as Israel killed thousands upon thousands of Palestinians, wiping out entire multigenerational families, destroying homes, livelihoods, hospitals, and schools,""Amnesty's Secretary General Agnes Callamard said.With 1.9 million Palestinians driven from their homes, Amnesty described Israel's invasion as an “engineered humanitarian apocalypse.”Amnesty also highlights escalating violence and apartheid in the occupied West Bank.UNHCR slams UN Security Council for 'chronic failure' to stop warsThe United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees chief Filippo Grandi criticised the UN Security Council for its chronic failure to prevent global violence, accusing the body of neglecting its responsibility to uphold peace."This is a season of war. This is a time of crisis. From Sudan to Ukraine, from the Sahel to Myanmar, from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Haiti, violence has become the defining currency of our age," Grandi said, pointing to escalating crises across the world.He warned that cuts to humanitarian aid are already costing lives and jeopardising millions.Grandi demanded urgent action, urging the Council to stop hiding behind diplomatic failures and take real risks to end conflict and protect civilians.Pakistan warns of imminent Indian incursion after Kashmir attackPakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warns of an imminent military incursion by New Delhi following last week's deadly attack on tourists in India-administered Kashmir.Tensions between the two neighbours have escalated, with Asif citing India's growing aggressive rhetoric.The attack, which killed 26 people, triggered calls for action against Pakistan, despite a lack of proof of involvement, while Islamabad called for a neutral investigation.While Pakistan remains on high alert, Asif stressed that nuclear weapons would only be used in self-defence.International calls for de-escalation continue, including from Türkiye and China.Liberal Party secures victory in Canada’s election: projectionsPrime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party has won Canada’s election, according to projections from CBC and CTV News.While it remains unclear whether the party will secure a majority, Carney’s team is expected to form the next government.The election saw US President Donald Trump’s comments, including a suggestion of Canada joining the US, influence the race.Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre criticised Trump’s interference, reaffirming Canada’s sovereignty.Carney, who recently replaced Justin Trudeau, has emphasised the need for stability and calm leadership.Iberian Peninsula in chaos as power outage hits Spain, PortugalA colossal power outage plunged Spain, Portugal, and Andorra into chaos on Monday, disrupting daily life across the Iberian Peninsula.By Tuesday, Spain had managed to restore power to half the country, with a full recovery imminent.Portugal's Prime Minister Luis Montenegro hinted that the catastrophe likely stemmed from Spain, though the cause remains shrouded in mystery.European Council President Antonio Costa dismissed any cyberattack claims, but the hunt for answers continues.The unprecedented blackout also sent shockwaves through parts of France, leaving authorities scrambling for answers.
Hamas ready to release all hostages for five-year Gaza truceKashmir simmers as Indian forces blow up several homesRussia announces complete 'liberation' of Kursk regionAttacker still at large after deadly stabbing in French mosqueTrump wants US ships to travel free in Panama, Suez canals
- Israel's aid blockade deepens hunger in Gaza: UNFifty-four days into Israel’s aid blockade, the UN says hunger in Gaza is reaching crisis levels. UNRWA has nearly 3,000 trucks of lifesaving aid stuck at the border, blocked by Israeli authorities. “People in Gaza are starving,” the agency warned, accusing Israel of using aid as a “weapon of war.” It called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and full access for humanitarian supplies. India, Pakistan trade fire along Kashmir borderIndian and Pakistani forces exchanged gunfire for a second straight night along the Line of Control. India’s army accused Pakistan of unprovoked small arms fire from “multiple posts” across the tense Kashmir frontier. No injuries or casualties have been reported.Earlier, India unilaterally suspended the decades-old Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan warned that any attempt to divert or block its water share would be seen as an "act of war," stressing that the agreement, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, cannot be suspended unilaterally. Francis's funeral to be grand farewell to 'pope of the poor'World leaders and thousands of mourners are gathering in Vatican City today for the funeral of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff in the history of the Catholic Church.Over 250,000 people have already paid respects to the late pope, who died Monday at 88. A massive security operation is underway, with snipers on rooftops and fighter jets on alert. The funeral mass, led in St Peter’s Square, begins at 10:00 am local time.* FBI arrests judge in immigration showdownA federal judge has been arrested for allegedly obstructing a Trump's immigration operation, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. He claimed Judge Hannah Dugan misled agents in her Milwaukee courtroom, helping an undocumented immigrant escape. The now-deleted post caused a stir, but law enforcement confirmed Dugan’s arrest. * Istanbul’s Tulip Festival is back showcasing largest floral carpetSpring in Istanbul is a full-blown floral spectacle, crowned by the world’s largest tulip carpet in Sultanahmet Square. The city’s annual Tulip Festival showcases over 500,000 flowers in designs inspired by Turkish tradition. For locals and tourists alike, it’s a season of heritage, beauty, and pride in full bloom.
ICC judges ordered to review Israel's challenge of jurisdictionUN urges ‘maximum restraint’ in Pakistan-India tensionZelenskyy: Russia hit Kiev with North Korean missilesUS officials admit: No warrant for Khalil arrestTürkiye’s AI momentum gains global recognition
6.2 magnitude earthquake rattles Istanbul during national eventIOM: 90% of Gaza homes severely damaged, destroyedBenin confirms 54 soldiers killed in attackThousands gather at St. Peter’s Basilica for Pope Francis funeralCannes to pay tribute to Palestinian photojournalist Fatima Hassouna
Deadly shelling rocks Sudan's Al FasherUS air strikes hit Yemen again, say HouthisIsrael deletes condolences for Pope FrancisAnkara condemns Kashmir attackTürkiye marks National Sovereignty and Children's Day
Gaza authorities warn against rumours of Palestinian exodusIsraeli opposition calls for Netanyahu's exitRussia resumes strikes on Ukraine after Easter truceHarvard University sues Trump admin over funding freezeCPJ issues safety advisory for journalists travelling to US
Israeli carnage continues as Palestinian death toll risesThousands rally in Istanbul to protest Israel’s war on GazaSecond Signal chat sparks concerns over leaks in US againTrump hopes Ukraine and Russia reach a deal this weekSyria receives first wheat shipment after Assad's fall
Israeli air strikes kill 35 Palestinians across GazaIsraeli troops in Gaza hit by deadly Palestinian resistance ambushIndia Muslims protest against changes to waqf lawsIran, US make 'good progress' in Tehran nuclear talksPutin declares Easter ceasefire, Zelenskyy claims otherwise
- Israel bombs homes and tents in besieged Gaza"Israel has killed at least seven more Palestinians in nighttime strikes on a home and tents for the displacement across Gaza.Four people, including two children and a girl, were killed in a strike on a tent for the displaced in the Al-Mawasi area in western Khan Younis in southern Gaza.One person was killed and 20 others, including 15 children, were wounded in a separate strike on a home in the Khan Younis refugee camp.And two people were killed and several others wounded in another strike that hit a tent in western Gaza City."Death toll from US strikes on Yemen mounts to 74Yemen's Houthis have said US strikes on a fuel port killed 74 people and wounded more than 170, making it the deadliest attack of Washington's intensified month-long air campaign.Iran and US to resume crucial nuclear talks in Rome"Iran and the United States will hold a new round of nuclear talks in Rome to resolve their decades-long standoff over Tehran's atomic aims, under the shadow of President Donald Trump's threat to unleash military action if diplomacy fails.Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will negotiate indirectly through mediators from Oman, a week after a first round in Muscat that both sides described as constructive."DRC boat disaster leaves at least 148 people dead"At least 148 people have been found dead in Democratic Republic of Congo after a motorised wooden boat caught fire and capsized.Officials said that the boat was carrying as many as 500 passengers, including women and children, when it overturned in the Congo River located in the country’s northwest region."Erdogan: Al Aqsa Mosque is our red line"Turkish President Rejep Tayyip Erdogan has strongly condemned Israeli actions at the Haram al Sharif, reiterating that the Al Aqsa Mosque and the surrounding complex belong solely to Muslims and must remain intact.He declared that Al Aqsa is a “red line” for Türkiye, emphasising it would remain so forever. Erdogan called on Israel to immediately halt all provocations, raids, and actions that threaten the sanctity and unity of the holy site."
US kills at least 38 in Yemen port strike Israel kills 10 Palestinians in besieged GazaSaudi defence minister visits Tehran ahead of Iran-US nuclear talksCasualties in Florida university mass shootingUS judge rules Google digital ad network illegal monopoly
Israel kills at least 34 Palestinians across Gaza"At least 34 Palestinians were killed in Israeli air strikes across besieged Gaza as Israel continued its attacks despite international calls for a ceasefire.In one of the latest attacks, the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis received 10 bodies along with an unspecified number of wounded, including women, children and elderly people, after an Israeli strike targeted tents sheltering displaced Palestinians in the southern Gaza."Israel turns 30% of besieged Gaza into buffer zone"Meanwhile, Israel has announced it had converted 30 percent of Palestine’s Gaza into a buffer zone as it pressed its unrelenting carnage, vowing to maintain its blockade on humanitarian aid to the war-ravaged territory.The Israeli military have vowed to achieve what it called the full operational control over several key areas and routes throughout Gaza. "China says will no longer pay attention to US' 'tariff numbers game'"China will pay no attention if the United States continues to play the ""tariff numbers game."" Beijing's comments came after the White House said in a fact sheet that China's total duties include the latest reciprocal tariff of 125 percent, a 20 percent tariff to address the fentanyl crisis, and tariffs of between 7.5 percent and 100 percent on specific goods to address unfair trade practices."500,000 Palestinians displaced since end of Gaza ceasefire: UN"The United Nations has said an estimated 500,000 Palestinians have been displaced since the end of the Gaza ceasefire, when Israel resumed military attacks in the besieged Palestinian enclave. "California becomes first state to sue Trump over tariffs"California has become the first US state to sue President Donald Trump because of his use of tariffs.California governor has said that no state will be impacted more than it, as it relates to the unilateral authority that's been asserted by the Trump administration to impose the largest tax increase in modern American history."
Gaza ministry says Israel killed 1,400+ medical personnel, kidnapped 360 others amid genocide"The Health Ministry in Gaza has announced that over 1,400 medical personnel have been killed in Israeli attacks since October 2023, with 360 others still detained by Israeli forces.The ongoing war has claimed more than 62,000 Palestinian lives—mostly women and children—left over 115,000 injured, and displaced nearly the entire population of 2.3 million."Israeli strikes kill 6 more Palestinians in Gaza"Israeli forces carried out multiple air strikes in Gaza City, targeting tents sheltering displaced civilians and a residential apartment again, killing six Palestinians and wounding several others, according to medics.Among the dead were an elderly woman and three people struck inside Yarmouk Stadium, which houses thousands of displaced families. "Sudan's RSF establishes rival govt; army advances in Omdurman as war rolls into 3rd year"Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has announced the formation of a rival government, marking the war’s third year with a call for a “Government of Peace and Unity” to challenge the army-aligned administration.Meanwhile, the Sudanese army said it had regained control of three areas and a camp from the RSF in western Omdurman, claiming continued military advances and heavy losses inflicted on RSF ""militia""."Ball in China's court on tariffs — Trump"Donald Trump says it's up to China to restart trade talks, accusing Beijing of backing out of a major Boeing deal. “The ball is in China’s court,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, stressing that the US doesn’t need a deal as much as China does.Trump's comments follow reports that Beijing ordered airlines to halt Boeing jet deliveries and pause purchases of US aircraft parts, raising tensions in the ongoing trade standoff."Barbaric act': Scores of Muslim graves desecrated in UK hate crime"UK police are investigating an Islamophobic hate crime after 85 graves, many of them belonging to babies and young children, were desecrated in the Muslim section of Carpenders Park Lawn Cemetery in Watford.Hertfordshire Police said the act, discovered by a grieving family, has deeply shaken the local Muslim community. Authorities have increased patrols and are urging anyone with information to come forward."
Hamas, Israel truce talks intensify over Gaza"Ceasefire negotiations have intensified as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cites ""intense talks,"" amidst rising public outcry over his decision to resume bombing in Gaza.Hamas has confirmed that it received the proposal through Egypt and is reviewing a new truce and prisoner swap deal.However, the Palestinian resistance group also expressed reservations, with a senior official noting a ""red line"" regarding disarmament.Israel has waged a genocidal war on Gaza since October 2023, killing over 50,000 people."Israeli army corps press Netanyahu to prioritise hostages"Over 1,520 Israeli soldiers, commanders and veterans, including ex-generals and former Prime Minister and army chief Ehud Barak, have issued a powerful petition.They urge the Benjamin Netanyahu-led far-right government to prioritise the release of Israelis held in Gaza, even if it means ending the war.Published by Maariv, a Hebrew-language daily newspaper, the appeal reflects mounting pressure from within the military ranks.Nearly ten such petitions have surfaced since Thursday.Prime Minister Netanyahu has responded with threats to dismiss any active-duty signatories, deepening tensions within Israel’s military and political circles."UN chief warns deepening Sudan crisis as civil war enters its third year"UN Chief Antonio Guterres has issued a stark warning as Sudan’s brutal war enters its third year.Over 12 million people have been uprooted in what he calls the world’s largest displacement crisis.Most of those who fled the country mainly went to Ethiopia, Egypt, Central African Republic and Chad.With famine looming and 25 million facing acute hunger, Guterres condemned attacks on civilians and aid workers, urging global action.“The world must not forget Sudan,” he stressed, pushing for peace and accountability as the death toll nears 130,000."US, El Salvador leaders meet to enhance ties, address crime issues"US President Donald Trump welcomed his El Salvadoran counterpart, Nayib Bukele, to the White House, emphasising a ""historic partnership"" aimed at improving global safety.The two leaders discussed El Salvador’s role in holding US-deported criminals in the Terrorism Confinement Center also known as CECOT prison, with Trump highlighting the removal of violent offenders from American streets.Discussions also covered economic growth, tariffs, and security, with Trump’s tariffs impacting Salvadoran exports.Bukele’s visit marks a pivotal moment in US-El Salvador relations, strengthening cooperation on criminal justice and regional prosperity."Harvard faces $2.2B freeze for defying Gaza protest policies"The Trump administration has intensified pressure on academic institutions to intervene and stop student protests criticising Israel's war against Palestine.Harvard University is facing a $2.2 billion freeze in federal funding after rejecting demands from the Trump administration over its Gaza protests and policies.The administration’s demands, including a crackdown on pro-Palestine demonstrations and a ban on campus masking, were swiftly denied by Harvard, with President Alan Garber defending the institution’s independence.The move follows similar actions against Columbia, Cornell and Northwestern universities.Critics, like Senator Bernie Sanders, praised Harvard’s defiance."
Israeli strike on Gaza hospital ‘ugliest form of genocide’: PalestinePalestine has denounced an Israeli air strike on the al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City as “one of the ugliest forms of genocide”.An Israeli warplane fired two missiles into the al-Ahli Arab Hospital, causing damage to the facility, which serves over a million Palestinians in northern Gaza.The Palestinian Foreign Ministry said this was a clear contempt for international law and accused Israel of “deliberately destroying 34 hospitals in Gaza since the war began and imposing starvation, thirst, and a blockade on vital medical supplies"Israel threatens to further shrink, isolate GazaMeanwhile, the Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has threatened to further shrink and isolate Gaza as carnage continues in the blockaded enclave.Katz said that Gaza will become smaller and more isolated, and more and more of its residents will be forced to evacuate from the fighting zones.US finds no link between Rumeysa Ozturk and antisemitism, terrorismThe US State Department has found no evidence that Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish graduate student at Tufts University in Massachusetts, engaged in anti-Semitic activity or supported a terrorist organisation.A March memo from within the State Department concluded there were no grounds to revoke Ozturk's visa based on the Trump administration's claim that she supported the Palestinian resistance group Hamas or engaged in anti-Semitism or violence as alleged by the Department of Homeland Security.Russian strike kills over 30 people in Sumy: UkraineA Russian missile strike on Ukraine's northeastern city of Sumy killed at least 32 people, including two children, and wounded dozens, Kiev said, in the deadliest attack in months.The local emergency service said on social media that the latest toll was that 32 people died, including two children"" and that 84 people were injured, including 10 children.Türkiye eyes Erdogan, Trump meet as Antalya Diplomacy Forum concludesTürkiye’s foreign minister has said that work is underway for a meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President Donald Trump. Hakan Fidan told reporters at the conclusion of Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2025 that work is ongoing on whether the meeting will take place in the US or Türkiye, Fidan also said Erdogan intends to visit Syria.
- Israel bombs Gaza's Al-Ahli Baptist HospitalIsraeli military has carried out air strikes on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in the central besieged Gaza.The attack destroyed the hospital's admissions and emergency building, which was hit by two missiles. The Gaza Media Office said Israel committed another horrific crime by bombing the hospital, which housed hundreds of patients, the wounded and medical staff. Hamas delegation heads to Cairo for talks with mediatorsMeanwhile, Hamas has announced that a delegation, headed by senior official Khalil Al-Hayya, departed for Cairo to meet Egyptian and Qatari mediators as part of efforts to reach an agreement and end the Israeli onslaught against besieged Gaza. The Palestine resistance group has said there will be meetings and follow-ups with mediators from Qatar and Egypt, as part of ongoing efforts aimed at reaching an agreement and stopping the Zionist aggression. BRICS members express 'serious concern' over US' reciprocal tariffsChina has said that BRICS members discussed US reciprocal tariffs and expressed "serious concern" about trade tensions.Beijing said that Washington's tariffs have severely undermined the international trade system, disrupted global industrial and supply chains, and caused a prolonged impact on the world economy during the second meeting of the BRICS Contact Group on Economic and Trade Issues earlier this week. Trump finds unlikely praise from Lavrov at Antalya Diplomacy ForumAmid widespread global criticism of US President Donald Trump for a series of controversial foreign policy decisions, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov offered an unexpected endorsement during a freewheeling exchange at the 4th Antalya Diplomacy Forum.Speaking on the second day of the high-profile international event, Lavrov said, “President Trump seems to understand much, much, much more about what is going on in Ukraine than any European leader, emphasising what he described as Trump’s nuanced grasp of the Russia-Ukraine conflict—unlike his European counterparts. Turkish First Lady calls for peace to become 'prevailing force'Türkiye's first lady, Emine Erdogan, has called for peace to become the "prevailing force", adding that humanity cannot endure more conflict and wars."On the contrary, it now expects areas of cooperation to be established, uncertainty to be resolved, and peace to become the prevailing force," Erdogan said in an address to the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (AFD).
Ceasefire shattered, Gaza turns hellish: UNRWA chiefUS, Iran to hold key nuclear talks amid mistrustJudge permits US deportation case against pro-Palestine Columbia studentNearly 10K cases of sexual violence against children in DRC: UNErdogan vows Türkiye's regional role, vision for peaceful future
Israel kills eight more Palestinians in Gaza bombardmentIsrael's brutal war on Gaza continues with fresh air strikes targeting the Al-Farra family home in the Sheikh Nasser area of Khan Younis, killing at least eight Palestinians and injuring several others, according to reports. Children are believed to be among the victims.Meanwhile, rescue teams are searching for missing Palestinians trapped under rubble after another Israeli strike destroyed a home in Gaza City's al-Shujaiya neighbourhood, local media said.Netanyahu furious as Israeli Air Force's 1,000 reservists demand end to Gaza warA group of 1,000 current and former Israeli Air Force reservists has publicly urged the government to secure the return of all captives held in Gaza, even if it means ending the war.In an open letter, the reservists warned that continuing the war risks the lives of hostages, soldiers, and civilians, accusing leaders of prolonging the conflict for “political and personal interests."China engages with Saudi Arabia and South Africa on US tariffs; Xi to embark on three-nation tourChina's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held separate video talks with his Saudi and South African counterparts to discuss responses to the United States' ""reciprocal tariffs,"" according to China's commerce ministry.The discussions also focused on deepening bilateral economic and trade cooperation between China, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa.Russia making 'systematic' efforts to recruit Chinese citizens for Ukraine war: ZelenskyyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of “systematic” efforts to recruit Chinese nationals for its ongoing war in Ukraine, now in its fourth year.In a post on X, Zelenskyy said Ukraine is investigating the involvement of Chinese citizens, including two reportedly captured in the eastern Donetsk region, with the Security Service conducting procedural actions.China has rejected claims made by Kiev that Chinese citizens were “fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine."Türkiye, Somalia sign onshore hydrocarbon exploration dealTürkiye and Somalia have expanded their energy cooperation by signing a new onshore hydrocarbon exploration and production deal, granting Turkish Petroleum (TPAO) rights to explore three land blocks covering around 16,000 square kilometres.The agreement was signed in Ankara by Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar and Somali Petroleum Minister Dahir Shire Mohamed, marking a key step forward following previous offshore accords.
Israel's bloodbath in Gaza continues At least 38 Palestinians have been killed, including women and children, and scores wounded in Israeli air strikes on a residential building in Al Shujaiah neighbourhood in Gaza City, as Tel Aviv's deadly onslaught on the enclave continued unabated.At least eight women and eight children are among the victims, while more than 85 people were also wounded, including many in critical condition.More than 34 people remain missing under the rubble of the targeted building, including several women and children.US strikes kill at least 16 in YemenYemen's Houthi group has said at least 16 people were killed in US air strikes.The strikes targeted areas of Hudaida and the capital Sanaa.A strike hit al-Hawak district in Hudaida, killing 13 people, most of them women and children. In Sanaa, multiple air strikes targeted the Rajam area in the Bani Hushaysh district and the al-Nahdayn area in the Al-Sabeen districtChina hits US with 84% tariffs in trade war escalationBeijing has sharply retaliated to the United States' trade war, announcing an increase in tariffs on American goods to a total of 84 percent, up from the previously stated 34 percent.The Chinese Finance Ministry's declaration is set to take effect from April 10th. The Chinese countermeasures had an immediate impact asUS stock index futures experienced a sharp decline following the announcementsTrump declares 90-day reciprocal tariff pause except for ChinaPresident Donald Trump has announced a 90 day pause on his sweeping tariffs, giving all countries a 10 percent baseline except China, which will see even higher levies.Trump said based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the World’s Markets, the tariff charged to China by the United States of America was raised 125 percent.The US president also said that more than 75 countries had asked for negotiations over the tariffs and that he authorised a 90 day pause, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10 percent.US imposes new sanctions on IranThe United States has announced new sanctions targeting Iran's nuclear programme ahead of closely watched talks on the row between the longtime adversaries.The Treasury Department imposed sanctions under additional authorities on five entities, including the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and one individual over the contested nuclear programme
UN chief calls Gaza a 'killing field', condemns Israel for aid blockadeUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the suffering caused by Israeli war in Gaza, calling it “a killing field” and holding Tel Aviv responsible for blocking humanitarian aid and neglecting its obligations under international law.Speaking to journalists, Guterres stressed that no aid—food, fuel, medicine, or supplies—has entered Gaza for over a month, warning that the ""floodgates of horror have re-opened."" He cited the Geneva Conventions, emphasizing Israel’s duty as an occupying power to provide for the civilian population, which he said is not being fulfilled.Gaza is now Hiroshima: Israeli soldiers describe their horrendous crimesIsraeli soldiers have given detailed testimonies revealing widespread destruction and killings in Gaza as part of efforts to establish a so-called buffer zone, according to a new report by the Israeli group Breaking the Silence.The report compiles firsthand accounts from soldiers involved in the invasion, describing the razing of large areas inside Gaza. The group stated that the deliberate devastation was aimed at paving the way for future Israeli control of the territory.Punitive US tariffs on China to hit 104 percent: White HouseThe US will impose a 104 percent tariff on Chinese goods starting on Wednesday, the White House announced. Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed the move, stating the tariffs will take effect at midnight.Leavitt said President Trump believes China ""has to make a deal"" and criticised Beijing’s retaliation as a mistake. She added that Trump would be “incredibly gracious” if China engages, but emphasised he will act in the best interest of the American people.Over 100 killed in RSF attacks near Khartoum: Sudanese medicsMore than 100 people, including women and children, were killed in attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Omdurman, the twin city of Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, according to Sudanese medics.The Sudan Doctors Network reported that the deaths occurred over the past week in the Jama’iya region, south of Omdurman, as violence continues to escalate in the conflict-hit country.Trump admin freezes funding for Cornell, Northwestern UniversityThe Trump administration has frozen over $1 billion in funding for Cornell University and $790 million for Northwestern University amid investigations into alleged civil rights violations, a US official said.The paused funding includes grants and contracts from federal departments such as health, education, agriculture, and defence. The move follows the administration’s threats to cut funds over pro-Palestine campus protests.
US and Israel discuss Gaza, hostages at White HouseIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced fresh hostage release negotiations for besieged Gaza in a White House meeting with US President Donald Trump.Trump, on the other hand, reiterated his controversial idea of ethnic cleansing and US takeover of Palestinian territory during the same meeting.While acknowledging ongoing efforts, Trump called securing all hostages ""a long process"" and suggested the Gaza war's end wasn't far off.He also predicted Israel's war would end “not in the too-distant future.”Separately, hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators in New York City halted Grand Central Terminal, demanding an end to the ""genocide"" and US support for Israel.Trump threatens 50 percent tariff hike on Chinese importsPresident Trump has threatened a staggering 50 percent hike in tariffs on Chinese imports unless Beijing backs off its retaliatory plans, raising total US duties to a sky-high 104 percent.The move builds on previous levies tied to fentanyl trafficking and alleged trade abuses.Trump declared talks with China are off the table while negotiations with other nations will begin immediately.The US President's latest move is seen as throwing gasoline on the fire.Beijing is set to retaliate with matching tariffs and export controls on rare earths.Global markets have plunged since Trump announced his tariff policy.Report accuses 10 Brits of war crimes in GazaA legal bombshell drops in London.About 240-page war crimes dossier has been submitted to London’s Metropolitan Police, accusing 10 British nationals of involvement in atrocities in Gaza.Spearheaded by famed barrister Michael Mansfield KC, the report cites crimes against humanity and demands urgent prosecutions.Filed by UK and Palestinian legal groups, the report arrives amid Israel's intense bombardment and violence in Gaza.Pro-Israel groups, including UK Lawyers for Israel, dismiss it as a “publicity stunt,” while supporters call it a bold bid for global justice.US-Iran diplomatic discussions set to take place in OmanDiplomatic channels have opened as Iran announces indirect high-level talks with the US in Oman this Saturday.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the meeting, calling it a "test" for America.While US President Donald Trump suggested direct negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme, Araghchi dismissed the notion, stating that the ball is in America’s court.Trump, continuing his threats of military action, emphasised that the talks are in Iran’s best interests but warned of ""great danger"" if an agreement fails.Both sides are now preparing for pivotal discussions.Three dire wolf pups bring back an ancient predator to the wildIn an almost secluded 8-kilometre-square preserve, three dire wolf pups — Romulus, Remus and Khaleesi — roam once more, marking the revival of an ancient predator.After 13,000 years, the biotech firm Colossal Biosciences has successfully resurrected these Ice Age creatures, blending science with fantasy.This is the first successful de-extinction.Using ancient DNA, the pups serve as a powerful symbol of de-extinction and conservation.With Indigenous collaboration, the project could also help in saving other endangered species, like the red wolf.
Gaza media office: 490 children killed by Israeli forces in 20 daysIsraeli forces have killed 490 Palestinian children in Gaza over the past 20 days, according to the media office in Gaza. Describing the attacks as “one of the most horrific crimes against humanity in modern times,” the office said Israel continues to carry out brutal massacres, with children being a primary target.The total number of Palestinians killed during this period has reached 1,350, highlighting the heavy toll of continued air strikes on Gaza’s civilian population.Palestinian journalist burned alive as result of Israeli strikes in Khan YounisIsraeli forces struck areas near Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, causing casualties and drawing outrage after a journalist was burned alive in the attack. The strike targeted a tent set up for journalists near the hospital.Disturbing footage shows the journalist engulfed in flames as bystanders and rescue workers frantically tried to save him. The journalist has been identified as Ahmed Mansour, a father and reporter for Palestine Today.Mass protests erupt across US against Trump policiesMass protests erupted across major US cities as demonstrators rallied against President Donald Trump's divisive policies, marking the largest wave of opposition since his return to the White House.In Washington, D.C., thousands gathered on the National Mall, with many traveling from across the country to join the demonstrations. Dozens of speakers took the stage to denounce Trump’s agenda and call for unified resistance.Russia claims capture of Basivka in Ukraine’s Sumy regionRussia announced that its forces have captured the village of Basivka in Ukraine’s Sumy region, intensifying its offensive near the northeastern border.According to the Russian defence ministry, troops also struck Ukrainian positions at 12 other locations across the Sumy region, signaling a broader push in the area.Moscow further claimed to have defeated Ukrainian units in the Russian settlements of Gornal, Guevo, and Oleshnya, as fighting continues to escalate along the border.US stocks headed for another plunge amid Trump’s global trade warWall Street opened the week facing significant losses following the implementation of President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs on exports to the United States. The move has rattled markets and sparked concerns of a deeper global trade rift.
- Israel has killed 17,000 children in Gaza Israel launches new attacks in southern Gaza Myanmar earthquake toll tops 3,000 * DRC govt met M23 rebels in Qatar* UK slams Israel for denying entry to British lawmakers
- Israel expands ground invasion in GazaIsrael has announced the launch of a new ground invasion in Gaza, with rescuers saying military attacks had killed many people across the Palestinian territory.Simultaneously, Israel has escalated attacks on Lebanon and Syria, with a strike in south Lebanon, killing a Hamas commander.Defence Minister Israel Katz said that Israel would bolster its military presence inside Gaza to, what he claimed, "destroy and clear the area of terrorists and terrorist infrastructure". Tens of thousands to attend anti-Trump protests across USAround 200 groups are planning to hold over 1,300 protests against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk on Saturday, marking the largest single-day demonstration of the new Trump administration.The "Hands Off!" anti-Trump protest, organised by progressive groups like Third Act and MoveOn, opposes Trump's alleged "hostile takeover" of the government, economy, and rights, with Musk as a key ally.Key grievances include Trump's tariffs causing a stock market crash, cuts to USAID, government layoffs by Musk's DOGE, and policies seen as anti-immigrant and harmful to the environment and democracy. China strikes back at Trump with own tariffsChina has said it would slap 34 percent tariffs on all imports of US goods from April 10 after Washington imposed steep new levies on Chinese products, vowing "countermeasures" to protect its rights and interests.Beijing's Commerce Ministry also imposed export controls on seven rare earth elements, including gadolinium and yttrium, which is used in consumer electronics.China will also file a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization over tariffs, the ministry said. Russian strike kills 14 in Ukraine leader’s home cityA Russian ballistic missile strike on Volodymyr Zelenskyy's home city of Kryvyi Rig has killed 14 people, including six children, the Ukrainian leader said.The missile struck a residential area near a children's playground and wounded more than 50 people, according to the head of the city's military administration.Regional governor said the number of reported casualties was "constantly increasing". Judge denies government's bid to move Rumeysa Ozturk case to LouisianaA federal judge has denied the Trump administration's attempt to dismiss or transfer Turkish student Rumeysa Ozturk’s case to the state of Louisiana, instead ruling that the proceeding will be transferred to Vermont.US District Judge Denise Casper also granted a request to block the government from removing Ozturk from the US while her petition challenging her detention is considered.
Qatar refutes claims of paying to disrupt Israel-Hamas negotiationsQatar condemned and rejected allegations that it made "financial payments" to undermine efforts by Egypt and mediators in talks between Hamas and Israel for a ceasefire in Gaza.It affirmed that "these allegations are baseless and serve only the agendas of those who seek to sabotage the mediation efforts and undermine relations between nations," it added.Doha "remains committed to its humanitarian and diplomatic role as a mediator between the relevant parties to end this devastating war and is working closely with Egypt in our efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire and protect civilian lives," it stressed.Brown University hit with $500M funding freeze amid Gaza protestThe Trump administration plans to halt over $500M in contracts and grants to Brown University over its response to alleged anti-Semitism, a White House official said.It comes two days after the Trump administration halted research grants at Princeton University and began reviewing $9 billion in federal contracts and grants awarded to Harvard University.Dozens of other universities are facing federal investigations following a wave of pro-Palestine and anti-genocide protests last year, but the administration has focused special attention on elite colleges.Palestine urges UN to act against Israel's land grab in GazaPalestine's ongoing envoy to the UN, Riyad Mansour, urged the UN Security Council to act against what he described as Israel's ongoing annexation of Palestinian land under the guise of security operations.Mansour warned that failure to act would deepen Palestine's despair and reinforce perceptions that the world is abandoning them.Mansour stressed that Israel is prioritising territorial expansion over the release of hostages, saying ""Israel's true objective is not the release of the hostages but stealing Palestinian land."South Korea's Constitutional Court ousts impeached President Yoon South Korea's Constitutional Court decided to oust President Yoon Suk-yeol, upholding parliament's impeachment motion over his short-lived imposition of martial law last year.With Yoon's ouster on Friday, a presidential election is required to take place within 60 days, according to the country's constitution.Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will continue to serve as acting president until the new president is inaugurated.Turkish finance minister vows to enhance economic ties with EUTürkiye and the EU developed a consensus on enhancing economic relations and increasing cooperation in all areas, Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek said.The EU and Türkiye held the first High-Level Economic Dialogue (HLED) meeting in six years in Brussels on Thursday.Issues such as the modernisation of the Customs Union and visa facilitation were also discussed between the two sides."In the government-to-government session, the parties reviewed the latest economic policy developments and prospects in Türkiye and the EU, amid a challenging and highly uncertain global outlook," it added.
Trump escalates global trade war with new 'Liberation Day' tariffs"US President Donald Trump has unveiled a sweeping new ""Liberation Day"" tariffs in a decision that is billed to escalate a devastating global trade war.He announced plans for sweeping tariffs on Wednesday, saying ""our country has been looted, pillaged, raped, plundered"" by other nations.Trump promised so-called reciprocal tariffs on friends and foes alike if they target the world's largest economy, saying the levies will stop the United States being ""ripped off."UN chief 'deeply alarmed' by human toll in Gaza"UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep alarm about the human cost of intensified Israeli attacks in besieged Gaza.His spokesperson's office state that Guterres condemns the reported killing of over a thousand people, including women and children, since the collapse of the ceasefire.""The Israeli army killed at least 86 Palestinians in a series of air strikes across besieged Gaza."PKK/YPG to withdraw from Aleppo under deal with Syrian government"The PKK/YPG terror group will withdraw from two neighbourhoods in Aleppo under an agreement with the Syrian government, a Syrian official told.The group's so-called ""internal security forces"" in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighbourhoods will be unified under a single structure and placed under the Interior Ministry.The official noted the deal includes provisions for removing barricades in the neighbourhood and forming committees to establish security checkpoints."Columbia students chain themselves to protest Mahmoud Khalil's detention"Students at Columbia University in New York, US, have chained themselves to the entrance gate of the school campus to demand the release of Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, who was detained for leading demonstrations in support of Palestine last Spring.A group of students, mostly of Jewish origin, organised a demonstration to protest the detention of Khalil on Wednesday, chanting slogans such as "Freedom for Palestine" and "Mahmoud Khalil, release him immediately."Amazon makes a last-minute bid to buy TikTok in US: report"Amazon has made a last-minute bid to buy TikTok, which faces a US ban if not sold by its Chinese owner, the New York Times reported on Wednesday.President Donald Trump has downplayed risks that TikTok is in danger of being banned in the United States, saying he remains confident of finding a buyer for the app's US business by a Saturday deadline.According to reports, the most likely solution would see existing US investors in ByteDance roll over their stakes into a new independent global TikTok company.
Bombardment intensifies in Gaza as Israel strikes shelter and homeIsrael’s latest raids in Gaza have left three more Palestinians dead and several others wounded, bringing the death toll during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr to 13.Air strikes hit a shelter in Deir al-Balah and an evacuated home in Khan Younis, while artillery and naval fire added to the casualties.Witnesses report intense Israeli bombardment across northern and southern Gaza, signaling escalating violence.Israel's genocidal war on Gaza has killed over 50,400 Palestinians and has wounded over 114,500 since October 2023, according to figures released by the Palestinian Health Ministry in the enclave.Taiwan scrambles defenses as China conducts large-scale drillsTensions skyrocket as China encircles Taiwan with extensive military drills, simulating precision strikes and a blockade.Taiwan responded by scrambling aircraft and ships, deploying missile systems in the region.The Chinese drills follow US pledges to bolster deterrence in the region, with Washington calling Beijing’s actions "aggressive."The European Union has urged restraint, while tensions between China and Taiwan, fueled by history and geopolitics, remain a potential flashpoint.Myanmar earthquake death toll surpasses 2,700 as crisis deepensTragedy unfolds in Myanmar as the death toll from Friday’s catastrophic 7.7-magnitude earthquake surpasses 2,700—and is still climbing.Thousands remain injured and missing, while rescue teams struggle against time.Miraculously, a 63-year-old woman was pulled alive from the rubble after 91 hours.Aid is trickling in, but with civil war complicating relief efforts, millions are at risk.The looming monsoon season and fears of disease outbreaks add to the crisis.US lawmaker delivers longest Senate speech to protest TrumpUS Senator Cory Booker made history with the longest speech in Senate history, delivering a fiery 25-hour, five-minute protest against President Donald Trump’s “unconstitutional” actions.Standing firm without breaks, Booker criticised Trump’s cost-cutting policies and executive overreach, warning of the damage to American democracy.The New Jersey senator, recalling the iconic scene from Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, energised his fellow Democrats while urging resistance to Trump's agenda.“The power of the people is greater than the people in power,” he concluded, igniting the opposition.SpaceX launches Fram2 mission on historic polar orbit journeySpaceX has launched the Fram2 mission, marking the first-ever crewed flight to orbit Earth’s poles!Aboard the Crew Dragon, billionaire Chun Wang, filmmaker Jannicke Mikkelsen, robotics expert Rabea Rogge, and explorer Eric Philips are set for a thrilling three-to-five-day journey.Unlike traditional launches, this southward trajectory required extra power, pushing limits in space travel.The crew will conduct 22 experiments while braving the ultimate extreme environment."We’re not your typical NASA astronauts," Mikkelsen said.While requiring immense power, the mission promises groundbreaking polar observations and human adaptation research.
Gaza suffers as children and aid workers killed in Israeli bombardment"Tragedy deepens in Gaza as at least 322 children have been killed and 609 wounded in the past 10 days, UNICEF reports, after Israel resumed attacks.""Children have again been plunged into deadly violence,"" warns UNICEF’s Catherine Russell.Separately, Gaza's media office confirms 1,513 humanitarian workers killed in Israel's relentless bombardment.Meanwhile, The Palestinian presidency condemns forced evacuations in Rafah, calling them a violation of international law.Israel and Hamas remain at odds over key conditions, including prisoner releases and military withdrawal."French court bans Marine Le Pen from office over EU funds scandal"French political circles are in turmoil.Marine Le Pen's electoral ambitions face a stunning blow as a court imposes a five-year ban after she was found guilty of embezzling European Union funds.International figures, including US President Donald Trump and his billionaire supporter Elon Musk, decry the ruling as politically motivated.Le Pen vows to appeal, insisting she's ""eliminated,"" not defeated.Her National Rally party now weighs its options, with 29-year-old protege and the party leader Jordan Bardella potentially stepping into the spotlight."Myanmar declares national mourning as earthquake deaths surpass 2,000"Myanmar declared a week of national mourning on Monday following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that claimed over 2,000 lives.The ruling junta announced flags would fly at half-mast until April 6 in honour of the victims.Rescue efforts have slowed in Mandalay, the worst-hit city, as fears of aftershocks persist.Thousands are still living on the streets, and with communication networks disrupted, the true scale of the disaster remains uncertain.At least 3,900 people are injured, and hundreds are still missing."Khamenei warns Trump that Iran will retaliate firmly against aggression"Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, responded sharply to US President Donald Trump's threat of ""bombing,"" warning that any external aggression would prompt a ""firm retaliatory blow.""Addressing a congregation in Tehran, Khamenei emphasised Iran’s readiness for any confrontation.Meanwhile, Iran rejected direct talks with the US but remains open to indirect negotiations.Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned Trump's remarks as a “shocking affront to international peace.”"France fines Apple over its app tracking transparency practices"French antitrust authorities have slapped Apple with a $162 million fine over its App Tracking Transparency or ATT feature.The watchdog argued that the implementation of ATT was excessive and harmed third-party publishers.The system, which debuted in 2021, requires users to opt-in before tracking across apps, with critics accusing Apple of using it to promote its own advertising.Despite the fine, Apple maintained the feature gives users greater control over privacy and has strong support globally.Investigations are ongoing in several European countries."
Gaza mourns as Israeli strikes target Palestinians on Muslim holiday"Tragedy strikes Palestinians during the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr in Gaza.At least 33 Palestinians, including 13 children, were killed in Israeli air strikes, with many more wounded.In a holiday message, the Palestinian resistance group Hamas condemned the attacks as ""brutal Zionist aggression"" and decried the ""siege, starvation, and destruction"" across besieged Gaza, the occupied West Bank, and East Jerusalem.The group accused the international community of remaining silent and blamed the US for supporting Israel amid the ongoing conflict."Netanyahu vows to enforce Trump-backed Palestinian displacement plan"Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to intensify the war on Gaza and advance a contentious, US President Donald Trump-backed plan for Palestinian displacement.Netanyahu's statement comes as an Arab summit proposes a $53 billion Gaza reconstruction plan without displacement—an initiative rejected by Israel and the US.As Israel renews its air strikes on Gaza, the Palestinian death toll has surpassed 50,200 since October 2023.The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former defense minister for war crimes, while Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice."Greenland makes it clear: US won't get the island"Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen made it crystal clear: The US will not get Greenland.His statement on Facebook is a response to the US President Donald Trump's desire to take control of the Arctic territory.“We determine our own future,” Nielsen stated.Trump told NBC that he ""100 percent"" will annex Greenland, while Vice President JD Vance, visiting a US base in the island, suggested that Denmark isn’t securing the island properly, suggesting that the US would do a better job."Trump expresses 'anger' at Putin over stalled Ukraine talks"Donald Trump, in a sharp shift in tone, expressed ""very angry, pissed off"" sentiments towards Russian President Vladimir Putin.Trump's fiery reaction to his Russian counterpart comes amidst stalled peace talks regarding Ukraine.He threatened Putin with ""secondary tariffs on all oil exports from Russia"" if a deal isn't reached and blamed Moscow for the continued bloodshed.Putin's remarks questioning Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's leadership prompted Trump's response.Weeks ago, Trump himself had questioned Zelenskyy's leadership."China’s banks plan to raise $71.6 billion to boost capital"China's banking behemoths are poised for a substantial capital infusion.Four major state-owned banks have announced plans to raise a staggering 520 billion yuan or $71.60 billion through private placements, with the finance ministry playing a pivotal role.It has been seen as a strategic step by Beijing to bolster its capacity to invigorate the nation's economy amidst headwinds.Analysts say the recapitalisation step is crucial for navigating economic deceleration and challenges in the property sector."
Hamas accepts ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar"The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, urging Israel not to obstruct the plan.The leader of Hamas in Gaza, Khalil al-Hayya, announced the decision on Eid al-Fitr, a holiday following the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, emphasising their commitment to mediation efforts.Al-Hayya said that the weapons of the resistance are a red line.Meanwhile, Israel has countered with its own proposal, reportedly seeking the release of more captives.The push for a deal comes amid renewed Israeli air strikes on Gaza, which have killed over 920 people since March 18.In its war on Gaza, Israel has killed more than 50,200 Palestinians since October 2023, following the Hamas-led attack on Israel."Academy apologizes after backlash over Palestinian filmmaker’s arrest"The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has issued an apology after its initial response to the arrest of Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal sparked outrage.Ballal, co-director of the Oscar-winning No Other Land, was assaulted by Israeli settlers and detained by Israeli forces before his release.Critics slammed the Academy’s vague statement, prompting a stronger follow-up.While it now explicitly mentions Ballal and reiterates its condemnation of violence and suppression of free speech, it does not directly name Israel.No Other Land won Best Documentary for exposing Israel's demolition of Palestinian homes."Syria's al Sharaa unveils new government"A new chapter for Syria has begun as President Ahmad al Sharaa unveiled the newly formed government, emphasizing a commitment to rebuilding state institutions grounded in transparency and accountability.Speaking at a ceremony in Damascus, al Sharaa declared the government’s mission to advance education, healthcare and tackle corruption.The cabinet, comprising 22 ministers—including the first woman—covers key sectors, from defence to culture.The groundbreaking change in Syria comes after al Sharaa’s leadership, following the ousting of Bashar Assad’s regime."Sudanese army secures key area from paramilitary RSF"Sudan's army has announced it has seized control of the crucial Souq Libya market in Omdurman, a key area previously utilised by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces for attacks during the two-year conflict.The new development follows the army's declaration of victory in the capital Khartoum.Souq Libya, a major commercial hub, was left abandoned by the Rapid Support Forces, who fled, leaving behind weapons and equipment.While the army already held much of Omdurman, it aims to secure the entire capital area.The Rapid Support Forces has yet to comment.The UN has described the war, triggered by a power struggle, as one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, causing widespread displacement, hunger and ethnic violence.Estimates suggest tens of thousands have died. The conflict has further destabilised the region. "Myanmar quake death toll exceeds 1,600"The death toll from a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand has surpassed 1,600.Myanmar's military junta reports at least 1,644 dead and over 3,400 injured, with the toll expected to rise.The quake, followed by a 6.7-magnitude aftershock, devastated Mandalay and surrounding regions.Rescue efforts continue as the isolated areas struggle with severe damage, including collapsed buildings and infrastructure.Amid the destruction, survivors are calling for urgent aid, with some fearing more casualties are trapped in the rubble."
Israel strikes Beirut for first time since Lebanon ceasefire"An unprecedented Israeli air strike hit south Beirut, marking the first such attack since the ceasefire reached in November with Hezbollah. Lebanese officials confirmed the strike. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to ""strike everywhere"" in Lebanon against perceived threats, signaling a shift in strategy.Meanwhile, Hamas spokesperson Basem Naim reported growing momentum in Gaza ceasefire negotiations with mediators, despite Israel's ongoing attacks in the Palestinian enclave."US judge blocks Ozturk’s deportation after visa revocation"Massachusetts federal judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of Turkish-born Tufts University doctoral student, Rumeysa Ozturk, pending a ruling on her petition challenging the removal. The decision, made by US District Judge Denise Casper, halts her removal until at least April 1, while the court reviews jurisdiction concerns. Ozturk was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement near her Somerville home for criticising Israel in her academic work.The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed her visa revocation, citing her activism but providing no evidence of violence."Myanmar earthquake death toll tops 1,000"A devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has claimed 1,002 lives, with more than 2,000 wounded, according to the country's military government. The quake, which struck near Sagaing, caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mandalay. A state of emergency is in effect across six regions. As international aid begins to arrive, China has deployed a rescue team, with both Russia and the US offering assistance. The disaster also affected neighbouring Thailand, heightening concerns across the region."VP Vance calls for stronger US leadership in Arctic"US Vice President JD Vance stressed the importance of American leadership in the Arctic during a visit to Greenland, warning that inaction could leave the region vulnerable to rivals like Russia and China. Speaking at a US Space Force base in Greenland's Pituffik, Vance emphasised the need to strengthen Arctic security, criticising European allies, particularly Denmark, saying they haven't done a good job. He also stressed the significance of the US's presence in Greenland, highlighting its crucial role in national security and urging Greenlanders to consider a partnership with the US for enhanced security and economic benefits."Elon Musk's xAI buys his X platform"Elon Musk has announced that his AI startup, xAI, has officially acquired X—formerly known as Twitter—for $33 billion in an all-stock deal, valuing the combined entity at $80 billion.Musk touts the merger as a leap toward ""accelerating human progress,"" intertwining xAI's AI prowess with X's vast user base.The acquisition follows Musk's controversial 2022 purchase of Twitter, which was marked by workforce cuts and advertiser exodus.Notably, banks recently offloaded $12 billion in X's debt amid renewed investor interest in AI and the platform's improved performance."
Hamas makes peace efforts despite Israel 's Gaza bloodbath Israel has killed at least 29 Palestinians in fresh air strikes on besieged Gaza amid its carnage on the blockaded enclave. Meanwhile, Palestinian sources close to Hamas have said that talks were underway between the resistance group and mediators from Egypt and Qatar to revive a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal for Gaza.Rubio defends visa cancellation of Turkish scholar"US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed the revocation of Turkish PhD student Rumeysa Ozturk's visa and defended her arrest following an article she co-authored criticising Israel.Ozturk's friends and family say she was arrested following a campaign by Canary Mission, a pro-Israel website that blacklists pro-Palestinian students and activists. Without providing any evidence linking the Turkish student to violence, Rubio defended the decision, saying those who are “vandalizing universities, harassing students and taking over buildings” will not be granted a US visa."South Sudan peace deal collapses after Machar's arrest"South Sudan’s main opposition party has said that a peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war has collapsed, following the arrest of its leader, Riek Machar.The United Nations has warned on that the country was teetering on the edge of a renewed civil war following fighting in the north between an armed group allied to Machar and government forces."Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan holds key talks during US visit"Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has held a series of high-level meetings during his two-day visit to Washington, engaging with US officials on critical bilateral and regional matters.Fidan met US Congressman Joe Wilson at the Turkish Embassy in the US capital. Fidan also received representatives of the American Coalition for Syria at the Turkish mission." Carney labels Trump's auto tariffs 'direct attack' on CanadaCanadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said that US President Donald Trump's auto tariffs are a "direct attack" on his country and that the trade war is hurting Americans, noting that American consumer confidence is at a multi-year low. Carney also said he needs to see the details of Trump's executive order before taking retaliatory measures.
Israeli kills 28 more Palestinians in Gaza"At least 28 more Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes across Gaza as attacks targeted residential homes and civilians.Israel launched an aerial offensive on Gaza on March 18, killing at least 830 people and wounding nearly 1,800. The assault shattered a January ceasefire, displacing 124,000 Palestinians again and deepening the humanitarian crisis."US lawmakers, rights groups condemn arrest of Turkish student over criticism of Israel"US lawmakers and rights groups have condemned the arrest of Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish PhD student at Tufts University and Fulbright scholar, over her criticism of Israel.Ozturk was detained by masked federal agents in broad daylight, with authorities claiming her of supporting Hamas—an allegation her family and advocates strongly deny.US lawmakers and rights groups say her arrest is part of a wider crackdown on free speech and civil liberties in the US, particularly against those voicing support for Palestinians.Israel constantly denying aid supplies to Gaza: UN"Israel has rejected most attempts by humanitarian organisations to deliver essential supplies into Gaza, the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has said.With intense hostilities continuing for a second week, UNRWA warned that basic supplies are running out and could be depleted within days if aid is not allowed in.The agency said most efforts to coordinate access with Israeli authorities have been blocked, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory.Sudan's Burhan declares Khartoum 'free' after reclaiming airportSudan's Sovereign Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al Burhan declared Khartoum ""free"" after the army expelled the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and reclaimed key sites, including the airport.Speaking from the presidential palace, also recaptured by the army on Tuesday, al Burhan marked his first landing in Khartoum since the civil war began nearly two years ago. The local government also confirmed on Facebook that RSF forces had been driven out."Trump orders 25% tariffs on foreign-built cars, light trucks"US President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on auto imports, escalating trade tensions ahead of further levies next week.Speaking at the White House, Trump said the tariffs would apply to all foreign-made cars but not those manufactured in the US.Set to take effect on April 2, the move will hit foreign-made cars and light trucks, adding to existing tariffs on those goods."
Syria calls for international probe after deadly Israeli bombingIsrael threatens to occupy more Gaza landUkraine ceasefire talks in Riyadh conclude without breakthroughTrump signs executive order to overhaul US electionsDeadly South Korea wildfires cause unprecedented damage
Israel's genocide of Palestinians in Gaza continuesIsrael kills two more journalists in GazaIsrael detains Oscar-winning Palestinian filmmakerTrump signs order imposing tariffs on countries importing oil from VenezuelaSouth Korea, Japan battle deadly wildfires
Israel continues to expand its ground invasion of GazaIsraeli siege pushes Gaza closer to ‘acute hunger crisis’: UNRWASouth Korea court strikes down prime minister's impeachmentSudan’s army advances in central KhartoumTalks in Saudi Arabia with US constructive: Ukraine
Israel launches more strikes on LebanonCanada's PM Carney expected to announce snap electionsThree killed and 15 injured in New Mexico mass shootingSyrian security forces arrest brigadier general close to Assad's brotherTürkiye condemns 'heinous attack' at mosque in Niger
UN reports record Israeli barricades in occupied Palestinian territoryUS dodges questions after Israeli minister calls for Gaza annexationJapan, China, South Korea agree to boost cooperation Over 100,000 people fled from DRC to neighbouring countries: UNTürkiye supports US-led peace talks between Russia, Ukraine — Fidan
Amnesty slams EU’s 'shameful' stance on Gaza"Amnesty International has condemned the European Council’s latest position on Gaza, calling it a “shameful attempt” to justify Israeli attacks while failing to denounce air strikes and blocked aid. Amnesty’s Eve Geddie blasted EU leaders for their “selective compassion,” saying their refusal to hold Israel accountable after 17 months of war amounts to complicity in genocide. She urged immediate action to prevent further war crimes in the besieged Palestinian enclave. "Trump backs Israel’s brutal war as death toll soars"Donald Trump “fully supports” Israel’s latest assault on Gaza, which has killed at least 700 Palestinians—including 200 children—since Tuesday. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt blamed Hamas for the bloodshed, insisting the war is their fault for not releasing hostages. Meanwhile, Gaza’s health officials warn of a deepening humanitarian disaster as Israeli strikes level homes and entire families are buried under rubble."Trump moves to boost US minerals, eyes Ukraine deal"Trump has invoked emergency powers to ramp up domestic production of critical minerals, aiming to reduce reliance on China. The executive order fast-tracks mining permits and directs agencies to identify federal land for extraction. As part of this push, Trump said he will sign a minerals deal with Ukraine “very shortly.” The move signals an aggressive bid to secure key resources for electronics and EV batteries amid intensifying global competition."Zelenskyy: Keep sanctions on Russia until war ends"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged the EU to keep sanctions on Moscow until Russia withdraws from Ukrainian territory. Speaking via video to EU leaders, Zelenskyy accused Putin of making “unnecessary demands” to prolong the war. He insisted economic pressure must continue until Russia not only pulls out but also compensates Ukraine for the devastation caused by its military offensive."After nine months in space, astronauts struggle to reclaim their bodies"After 288 days in orbit, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams returned to Earth—only to face a battle with their own bodies. Months in microgravity weakened their muscles, thinned their bones, and even altered their vision. Experts say long space missions mimic a decade of ageing in just months, despite rigorous exercise."
Israeli army begins ground invasion to occupy Netzarim, bisect GazaGaza enters famine phase as Israel blocks aidArmenia’s Pashinyan ‘ready’ to sign peace deal with AzerbaijanBosnia issues arrest warrant for separatist leaders of Republika SrpskaCanada explores European defence options to reduce reliance on US
Israel again kills hundreds of Palestinians in 'horrifying' war"Israeli air strikes on besieged Gaza have killed at least 404 Palestinians, including 150 children, a Geneva-based rights group reported as Benjamin Netanyahu decides to resume his war on enclave.The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor also reported hundreds of wounded Palestinians.Separately, images emerging from Gaza following Israel's attacks are beyond horrifying, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said.She noted that some of the strikes reportedly hit makeshift shelters with sleeping children and families. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect on January 19.Israel has killed over 48,500 Palestinians since October 2023. The rights group warned that global inaction is enabling further massacres."Netanyahu calls intensified Gaza strikes are 'only the beginning'"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that deadly strikes on Gaza were only the start of intensified military attacks. In a televised speech Netanyahu said Hamas has already felt the strength of Israel in the past 24 hours, noting that this is only the ""beginning.""Meanwhile, pro-Palestine protests erupted in Washington and London, with demonstrators demanding an end to US military aid to Israel. Crowds outside the White House and Downing Street chanted, “Free Palestine” and “Arms embargo now,” calling for immediate international action."Zelenskyy backs 30-day ceasefire proposal on energy infrastructure"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed support for a proposed 30-day ceasefire on energy infrastructure, following talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump. Zelenskyy clarified that Ukraine had initially proposed the ceasefire, stressing that Washington's involvement as a guarantor was essential. However, he accused Putin of seeking to weaken Ukraine, reiterating that Russia isn’t ready for peace. Zelenskyy also confirmed a prisoner exchange of 175 soldiers from each side and noted ongoing fighting in the Russian Kursk region."US releases final JFK assassination files after decades of secrecy"The US National Archives has released the final batch of files on John F. Kennedy’s assassination, a case still shrouded in conspiracy theories six decades later. It fulfills a prior executive order by president Donald Trump mandating the unredacted release of records on JFK, his brother former attorney general Robert F. Kennedy and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.Millions of pages have been released over decades, but these final files, held back due to national security concerns.While past investigations concluded Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, the slow declassification of documents has only fueled speculation of a deeper plot behind Kennedy’s 1963 murder."Astronauts return to Earth after unexpected nine-month stay in space"After an unexpected nine-month stay in space, four astronauts have finally returned to Earth, ending a mission that captivated global attention. A SpaceX Crew Dragon carrying NASA’s Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams alongside fellow American Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov splashed down off Florida’s coast yesterday evening.The mission garnered worldwide interest.NASA confirmed the successful landing, concluding a mission that far exceeded its original timeline."
Houthis vow to attack US warships, carriers"Yemen’s Houthi leader Abdul Malik al Houthi vowed to intensify attacks in response to US military operations, warning that drones and missiles will target American warships and aircraft carriers. Speaking in a video statement, al Houthi declared they would respond to escalation with escalation and accused the US of turning the sea into a battlefield. He also said that the US would now be included in the Houthi-imposed naval blockade, alongside Israel, as long as its aggression persists."Armenian forces attack Azerbaijani troops: Baku"Azerbaijan on Sunday said that its military positions were fired upon by Armenian forces in three separate incidents along the border. The Defence Ministry reported gunfire from Armenian troops near the Khazinevar, Burun and Digh settlements. Armenia has denied the claims. The renewed friction comes just days after both nations announced progress on a draft peace deal aimed at ending decades of conflict."Russia seeks 'ironclad' guarantees in Ukraine war"Moscow is demanding ""ironclad"" guarantees in Ukraine peace talks, insisting on Kiev's neutrality and exclusion from NATO.This comes as Washington pushes for a 30-day ceasefire, with talks expected between the US and Russian presidents this week.Separately, Ukraine's military leadership sees a shake-up with the appointment of Major General Andrii Hnatov as the new chief of General Staff, aiming to bolster operational efficiency."Deadly suicide attack strikes Pakistan military forces"A vehicle-borne suicide bomber targeted a military convoy in southwest Pakistan, killing at least five, including three Frontier Corps troops and wounding over 43 others, according to officials.Security forces suspect the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is behind the bombing.Three suspected terrorists were killed in the security operation in the volatile district of Noshki in Balochistan after the attack, the Pakistani military said.Authorities fear the death toll may rise as several victims remain in critical condition.The attack followed Pakistan’s recent anti-terror operation against the BLA, which killed dozens of terrorists after a deadly train hijacking ambush."Netanyahu moves to dismiss Shin Bet chief over Hamas attack fallout"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to propose the dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar to the government, citing a ""lack of trust.""The decision follows tensions over an internal investigation into the agency’s failure to foresee Hamas’s October 7 attack.While Shin Bet admitted lapses, it also pointed to Netanyahu’s policies as a contributing factor. The dismissal is poised to stir significant controversy within Israel."
- Netanyahu orders prep for ceasefire talks under US proposalIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with a delegation that returned from Qatar to discuss ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.At the end of the meeting that included ministers and security officials, Netanyahu ordered preparations for negotiations under a proposal by US President Donald Trump's Special Mideast Envoy Steve Witkoff.The proposal includes the immediate release of 11 Israeli hostages and the remains of half of the deceased captives. Israeli media previously reported that Witkoff presented a new proposal during ceasefire talks in Doha. US, Russia discuss Ukraine, Yemen strikesUS Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov spoke to discuss the next stage in talks on ending the Ukraine war.According to State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, the top diplomats "agreed to continue working towards restoring communication between the United States and Russia".Rubio also updated Lavrov on military activity in the Middle East, where US forces carried out deadly strikes against Houthis in Yemen. Over 100,000 rally in Serbia against Vucic governmentAt least 100,000 people descended on Belgrade for a mass rally seen as a culmination of months-long protests against Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic and his government.Large crowds of flag-waving protesters clogged the downtown area of the capital despite occasional rain, with people hardly able to move and many stuck hundreds of metres away from the planned protest venue.Police said the crowd reached 107,000 people with no major incidents reported. Serbian independent media described the rally as the biggest ever in the country, saying the numbers were much higher. Bangladeshi students urge UN to seek ICC trial for HasinaBangladeshi student representatives urged the United Nations to assist in taking former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's case to the International Criminal Court over alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July uprising last year.The demand was made on Saturday during a meeting between a student delegation and visiting UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in Dhaka.Guterres is in Bangladesh for a four-day visit, set to conclude on Sunday. Trump mutes Voice of America, employees put on leavePresident Donald Trump's administration has begun making deep cuts to Voice of America and other government-run, pro-democracy programming, with the organisation's director saying all VOA employees have been put on leave.On Friday night, shortly after Congress passed its latest funding bill, Trump directed his administration to reduce the functions of several agencies to the minimum required by law.That included the US Agency for Global Media, which houses Voice of America, Radio Free Europe and Asia and Radio Marti, which beams Spanish-language news into Cuba.
Hamas says won't renegotiate Gaza truce dealRubio declares South African ambassador to US persona non grataPutin calls on Ukrainian troops in Kursk to surrenderCanada's new PM Carney says his country will never be part of USSpaceX launches replacement crew, paving way for stuck astronauts' return
Hamas warns of attempts to undermineGaza ceasefire Jewish protesters in US flood Trump Tower over student arrestQatar steps in to ease Syria’s energy crisisTürkiye offers to help rebuild war-torn UkraineTrump's trade war sparks North American backlash
Israeli army chief admits paying 'heavy price' in GazaSyrian president issues decree to establish National Security CouncilPutin urges troops to 'fully liberate' Kursk from UkrainePeace talks between DRC, M23 rebels to start March 18 — AngolaTürkiye's anti-ship missile Atmaca successfully hits target
US envoy Witkoff starts talks in Qatar as Israel proposes truce extension"US presidential envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has begun talks in Qatar to push for progress on releasing Israeli captives amid a proposal by Tel Aviv to extend a ceasefire deal in besieged Gaza for 60 days, Israel's public broadcaster KAN reported. The first 42-day phase of a three-phase ceasefire and prisoner swap deal, each of equal length, between Hamas and Israel, brokered by Qatar, Egypt and the US, ended March 1 after starting on January 19. Israel has reneged on the truce deal announced by Biden administration last year and wants to impose its own new deal on Palestine."White House puts pressure on Columbia University as it seeks to deport pro-Palestine activists"The White House says Columbia University is refusing to help federal agents find people being sought as part of the government's effort to deport participants in pro-Palestine demonstrations.In a briefing with reporters in Washington, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said federal authorities have been ""using intelligence"" to identify other people involved in campus demonstrations critical of Israeli aggression.She said Columbia had been given names and was refusing to help the Department of Homeland Security ""to identify those individuals on campus""."Syrians rally in support of new government after attacks by Assad loyalists"Hundreds of civilians have gathered in Syria's Latakia to express support for the government forces following recent incidents in the province.People assembled in Sheikh Dahir Square in the centre of Latakia, holding banners with Arabic messages, including: ""The forces of the deposed regime have destroyed the infrastructure"", "The Alsharaa government represents me", and ""We stand with the security forces"".Some demonstrators carried flags of the Syrian Army, while others displayed photos of security personnel who died in clashes between March 6 and 10."Portuguese government loses confidence vote, paving way for snap elections"Portugal could be heading to its third general election in three years after the centre-right government of Prime Minister Luis Montenegro lost a vote of confidence.The vote was called over conflict-of-interest accusations against Montenegro involving a family business. A last-minute attempt to avoid the vote failed when terms could not be agreed for setting up a mooted parliamentary inquiry.The country's president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, must now decide whether to dissolve the assembly and call new elections."India bans Kashmir political parties days after criticising 'obscene' fashion show"The Indian government has imposed a five-year ban on two local political parties in India-administered Kashmir, declaring them ""unlawful associations"" threatening India's sovereignty, integrity and security.According to Indian Home Ministry, the Awami Action Committee (AAC) and the Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), were accused of ""supporting terrorism, spreading anti-India narratives, and raising funds for secessionist movements in the region"".The Indian government invoked Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 to enforce the five-year ban."
US court halts Trump’s bid to deport pro-Palestine activist"A US federal judge has temporarily blocked the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestine activist and permanent resident, following his weekend arrest. The judge ruled that Khalil could not be removed from the US until further notice and scheduled a court hearing for Wednesday. Khalil's detention in Louisiana sparked nationwide outrage, with mass protests in New York and Washington. Earlier, President Donald Trump praised the arrest, warning it was the first of many.Khalil, who holds a master's degree from Columbia's School of International Affairs, had not been charged with any crime related to his activism."Syria reaches integration deal with SDF, led by YPG terror group"Syria has sealed a deal with the SDF, led by the YPG, the Syrian offshoot of the PKK terrorist organisation, declaring a nationwide ceasefire while reaffirming the country's territorial unity. Announced by the Syrian Presidency, the agreement integrates northeastern Syria into state institutions and rejects partition.It also ensures political participation for all Syrians, recognises Kurdish citizenship rights, and mandates control over key assets like borders, oil and airports."Boat capsizes in DRC, killing dozens, including football players"A boat tragedy in southwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo has left 25 dead, many of them football players, after capsizing on the Kwa River.The team was returning from a match in Mushie when disaster struck, possibly due to poor visibility, according to the provincial spokesperson.At least 30 survived as deadly boat accidents remain common as overcrowded vessels navigate DRC’s vast waterways."Elon Musk cites potential cyberattack as major outage hits X"The social media giant X, formerly known as Twitter, faced major disruptions, with thousands of users reporting outages. The company's owner Elon Musk said the platform was hit by a ""massive cyberattack,"" possibly from a coordinated group or even a nation-state. Complaints peaked at 40,000 users affected, according to reports. The outage, which lasted over an hour, hit hardest on the US coasts. In March 2023, similar issues plagued the platform, disrupting links, logins, and image loads."Global markets slump over Trump’s trade policies, recession fears"Stock markets tumbled as tech shares led the charge, spooked by concerns over President Trump’s trade policies potentially pushing the US into recession.Wall Street saw the Nasdaq drop over 3.6 percent, with Trump leaving the door open to a downturn. Meanwhile, global markets, including London and Paris, closed lower. Investors also reacted to weakening consumer confidence and rising trade uncertainties. Separately, China’s deflationary pressure deepens as tariffs escalate."
Hamas blames Netanyahu for derailing Gaza truce"Palestinian resistance group Hamas accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of obstructing the Gaza ceasefire deal for his political gains.Hamas official Izat al-Rishq warned that Netanyahu's actions are a waste of time and an attempt to manipulate the captives' fate.Meanwhile, Israeli tanks stormed Palestinian city of Jenin, in a dramatic escalation of military raids in the occupied West Bank. Witnesses reported indiscriminate Israeli gunfire before the tanks retreated, with videos capturing the chaos and thick smoke. No injuries were reported. "US is 'just about' lifting intelligence freeze on Ukraine"President Donald Trump has said that the US has ""just about"" lifted its intelligence-sharing freeze with Ukraine, a decision with major security stakes.The reconciliation move from the US comes as top officials gear up for crucial talks in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine may face pressure to make concessions to Russia.However, the fate of a key minerals deal between Washington and Kiev also hangs in the balance.Despite these challenges, President Trump expresses optimism that substantial progress will be made this week."Liberal Party elects new leader, Canada's next PM"Mark Carney has been elected leader of Canada's Liberal Party and he is set to become the country's next prime minister. He replaces Justin Trudeau, who resigned in January following declining approval ratings after nearly a decade in power.The 59-year-old former central banker, known for tackling crises, secured over 85 percent of the vote.Carney, an outsider with no prior political office experience, is poised to face his toughest challenge yet. Managing Canada's response to US tariffs under President Donald Trump remains key issue."Iran shows openness to discuss nuclear concerns with US"Iran signalled openness to talks with the US on Sunday, but only if discussions focus on concerns about the militarisation of its nuclear programme. Tehran's UN mission stressed that it would not negotiate away its peaceful nuclear ambitions. Earlier, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who dismissed US offers for a broader deal, said that such talks would aim to limit Iran's missile capabilities and regional influence. Khamenei underlined that military and influence demands wouldn't resolve the tensions with the West."Türkiye warns against provocations in Syria's clashes"Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has warned against efforts to provoke the Syrian government’s policy of restraint amid over clashes in Syria between government forces and loyalists of ousted regime leader Bashar al Assad.He stressed the need for Alawites, Christians, Druze and Nusayris to stay clear of provocations. Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Syria’s new government in restoring peace.The summit in Jordan, which included key regional officials, focused on regional security, counterterrorism, and Syria’s stability."
Qatar calls for safeguards for all Israeli nuclear facilitiesQatar reiterated its call for intensified international efforts Saturday to subject all of Israel’s nuclear facilities to the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).Qatar’s Ambassador Jasim Yacoub Al Hammadi highlighted “the need for the international community and its institutions to uphold their commitments under resolutions of the UN Security Council, which called on Israel to subject all of its nuclear facilities to IAEA safeguards.”He also highlighted “the urgency for the international community and its institutions to take decisive action to compel Israel to implement international resolutions, recognise the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state.Russia says France has repeatedly liedKremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has accused France of lying and violating international agreements, including the implementation of the Minsk agreements for a settlement in Ukraine and violated security guarantees given to Viktor Yanukovych, a former Ukrainian president.He stressed: "France, like other countries, didn’t fulfill its guarantees. It was a real lie," adding that when French President Emmanuel Macron accused Russia of posing a threat to Europe, he did not mention France's mistakes.The Minsk Agreements were meant to resolve the Crimea crisis in 2014, as well as Eastern Ukraine.Arab League denounces attack on security forces in SyriaThe Arab League condemned acts of violence and attacks on government security forces to fuel internal tensions and threaten civil peace in Syria.It expressed "condemnation of violence, attacks on government security forces, and reckless killings, threaten civil peace, and exacerbate the challenges Syria is facing at this critical stage."The Arab League emphasised that "such circumstances require a focus on policies and measures that strengthen and safeguard stability and civil peace to thwart any plans aimed at destabilising Syria and undermining its chances for recovery."North Korea unveils nuclear-powered submarine for the first timeNorth Korea has unveiled for the first time a nuclear-powered submarine under construction, a weapons system that can pose a major security threat to South Korea and the US.The naval vessel appears to be a 6,000-ton-class or 7,000-ton-class one which can carry about 10 missiles, South Korean submarine expert said, adding the use of the term “the strategic guided missiles” meant it would carry nuclear-capable weapons.*Un warns South Sudan’s peace process at risk amid growing violenceA recent surge in violence and escalating political tensions in South Sudan are putting a fragile peace process in jeopardy, a UN human rights commission warned."We are witnessing an alarming regression that could erase years of hard-won progress," Yasmin Sooka, chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, said.She urged leaders to "urgently refocus on the peace process, uphold the human rights of South Sudanese citizens, and ensure a smooth transition to democracy."
- Islamic nations adopt Arab counter to Trump’s Gaza takeover plan Syria to brings remnants of Assad regime to justice through fair trial Trump woos cryptocurrency industry's elite at White House Russia hits Ukraine as US cuts Kiev's access to satellite images Israeli plans to expel Gaza's Palestinians 'totally unacceptable' — Türkiye
Palestinians point to Israel's retention of 600+ bodies after Trump's remark"Palestinians are pushing back against US President Donald Trump's fiery demand that Hamas return Israeli captives and bodies of those killed, reminding him that Israel has long been keeping hundreds of bodies of Palestinians.According to multiple media sources, Israel is holding 665 bodies, including those of 59 children. Israeli officials say they keep Palestinian bodies as leverage — to deter attacks, to trade in future negotiations.Palestinians and human rights groups call it something else — collective punishment."Ukraine, US to hold talks next week to end war"President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would travel to Saudi Arabia and his team would stay on to hold talks with US officials about ending the war between Ukraine and Russia.The talks follow a letter from Zelenskyy to US President Donald Trump."There was an apology, there was an acknowledgment that the United States has done so much for the country of Ukraine, and a sense of gratitude,"" US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters in describing the tone of Zelenskyy's letter."EU leaders agree to boost defence following decades of hesitation"European Union leaders have committed to a massive step in defence cooperation following decades of hesitation.The 27 leaders signed off on a move on Thursday to loosen budget restrictions so willing EU countries can increase military spending.They also urged the European Commission, the EU's executive branch, to explore new ways to facilitate significant defence spending in all member states, a statement said."CAIR urges Muslim immigrants not to leave US ahead of potential Trump ban"The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) warned regular immigrants in the US not to travel overseas this month ahead of potential President Donald Trump's Muslim travel ban.CAIR Government Affairs Director said they do not know ""for sure"" whether the administration will issue a new ban or which countries would be targeted.CAIR encourages the Trump administration to reconsider any plans to impose any new total travel bans on Muslim-majority countries under the guise of protecting national security, the official said."Turkish researcher to study women astronauts’ health on all-female spaceflight"Begum Aydogan Mathyk, an obstetrics and gynecology researcher at the University of South Florida, will investigate the health of an all-women flight team scheduled for 2026.Underlining the lack of studies on women’s health in space, she pointed out that while animal reproduction studies have been conducted in space, her approach is different.Mathyk highlighted the importance of moving women’s health studies from Earth to space, as the long-term effects of space on women astronauts’ reproductive health and hormonal systems remain unknown."
Trump issues deadly ultimatum to Palestinians over captives"US President Donald Trump has issued a dire ultimatum to Palestinians once again.He warned that Palestinians in Gaza will face deadly consequences if hostages are not released.""Release all of the hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is over for you,"" he wrote on his Truth Social platform.Pledging unwavering support for Israel, Trump vowed to send, what he calls, ""everything it needs to finish the job.""At least 48,400 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's genocidal war on Gaza amid a stalled ceasefire agreement reached on January 17."Israel’s occupation is the real issue, not Hamas: Palestinian official"The head of Gaza’s Government Information Office Salama Maroofa fired back at US President Donald Trump’s call for Palestinians to release Israeli hostages or face death.He stated that Israel’s occupation is the core issue, not Hamas.In a statement, Maroof accused Trump of emboldening Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, enabling further ""crimes against 2.4 million people.""He added that the ongoing violence in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem is proof of Israeli crimes."Syria vows to destroy Assad's chemical weapons legacy"Syria’s foreign minister has pledged to swiftly eliminate the country’s remaining chemical weapons and is calling on the world for support. Speaking at the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague, Asaad Hassan al Shaibani became the first Syrian official to address the disarmament agency. ,New government's decision comes after years of controversy, despite Syria’s 2013 pledge to destroy its stockpile, multiple probes confirmed chemical attacks by the Bashar al-Assad regime. For over a decade, chemical weapons watchdog's inspectors have faced roadblocks in uncovering the full extent of Syria’s arsenal."US nixes intelligence-sharing with Ukraine"The US has halted intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed, a move that could shake Kiev’s battlefield strategy. The Trump administration's tough stance aims to push Ukraine toward a mineral deal with the US and peace talks with Russia.President Trump earlier revealed that he received a letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressing willingness to negotiate. Amid concerns, Ratcliffe suggested it may soon be reversed as Washington reaffirms its support for Ukraine."UN warns of drastic food ration cuts for Rohingya refugees"The United Nations has warned it may reduce food rations for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh from $12.50 to $6 starting April 1, unless it raises $81 million. Bangladesh's top official, Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, expressed concern over the potential impact of this cut, noting current rations are already insufficient. The UN's World Food Programme is scrambling for funds to avoid further worsening the humanitarian crisis. With over a million refugees, many already facing hunger, the cuts threaten to undermine basic survival needs."
Arab leaders reject Trump’s Gaza plan, offer alternativeLapid to Netanyahu: Apologise for October 7 failuresSomalia hunger crisis worsens, one million more at riskTrump’s 'dumb' tariffs ignite global trade warUS lists Department of Justice, FBI buildings for potential sale
Gaza food prices surge 100-fold after Israeli border closureIsraeli drone strikes kill multiple Palestinians, violating the ceasefireTrump orders halt to US aid in UkraineAustria's first three-party gov't since WW2 takes office, keeps far-right outTürkiye's Erdogan calls for Muslim veto power at UNSC
Starvation as a weapon': Israel blocks Gaza aidPlan Hell': Israel set to escalate Gaza warUkraine ready to sign US minerals deal – ZelenskyySyria forms committee for transition constitutionNo Other Land' wins Oscar for Best Documentary
- Messages of support for Ukraine after Trump berates Zelenskyy Rubio says Zelenskyy owes Trump apology after White House clash Türkiye advances in its quest for 'terror-free' future: Erdogan Bangladesh students whose uprising ousted Hasina unveil new political party Gaza marks Ramadan amid ruins, hunger after months of Israel's brutal war
Gaza truce talks underway in CairoIsraeli army admits to 'colossal failure' on October 78,500 killed in DRC violence since JanuaryPutin warns the West against blocking US-Russia thawJailed PKK leader calls for group’s dissolution
UN agency chief warns West Bank is turning into war zoneTrump’s AI-generated Gaza video sparks global outrage onlineZelenskyy to visit Washington for high-stakes mineral dealBosnia sentences Serb leader Dodik to one year in prisonJordan, Syria agree to strengthen border security against trafficking
- Hamas, Israel agree to resolve delay in release of PalestiniansHamas has said it has agreed during a visit to Cairo on a solution to end the delay of releasing Palestinian prisoners.In a statement, the resistance group said its delegation met with Egyptian officials to discuss the implementation of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement as well as preparations for the next phase of negotiations.Hamas added a solution has been reached ensuring the release of Palestinian prisoners would occur simultaneously with the handover of the remains of Israelis. Israel carries out air strikes in southern SyriaIsraeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has confirmed the military assault on southern Syria.Residents of Damascus and Reuters reporters in the city heard the sound of airplanes flying several low passes over the capital and a series of blasts.The bombardment came hours after Syria condemned Israel's invasion into the country's south and demanded it withdraw, according to the closing statement of a national summit. US, Ukraine agree on terms of minerals deal — Ukrainian officialUkraine has agreed on the terms of a minerals deal with the United States and could sign it as early as Friday on a trip to Washington by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a senior Ukrainian official said.The deal would see the United States jointly develop Ukraine's mineral wealth, with revenues going to a newly created fund that would be "joint for Ukraine and America", a senior Ukrainian source told the AFP news agency on condition of anonymity.The Washington Post, which cited a Ukrainian official and another person familiar with the matter, said the deal was on "much better term" than those offered in an earlier proposal. Dozens dead as hail, rain hit two provinces in Afghanistan — officialsAt least 29 people have died in two provinces in Afghanistan due to hail and heavy rain, officials said.Among the poorest countries in the world after decades of war, Afghanistan is particularly exposed to the effects of the climate crisis, which scientists say is spurring extreme weather.Flash floods in May last year killed hundreds and swamped swaths of agricultural land in Afghanistan, where 80 percent of people depend on farming to survive. Chile declares state of emergency after sweeping power blackoutChile has declared a state of emergency and curfew across much of the country, including the capital, Santiago, following a massive blackout possibly caused by an electrical system failure, the interior ministry said.After the blackout hit, subway services were promptly evacuated. Traffic lights were knocked out, causing traffic jams in the country's largest cities, while a fleet of electric buses was deployed to assist with inner-city mobility.The outage occurred amid a heat wave in Chile, and in small towns such as Lo Barnechea, Talagante and La Florida, authorities promptly established supplies of drinking water.
Israel prepares to occupy Gaza with US backing"Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has said that the military is gearing up to occupy Gaza under newly appointed Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir—coordinating efforts with US President Donald Trump’s administration.Smotrich issued a stark warning to the Palestinian resistance group Hamas, vowing a devastating offensive. He also said that when they decide the time has come to resume the war, everyone will be surprised by the unity, strength, and lethal precision of Israel's Gaza occupation.The Trump administration, he added, firmly backs the Israeli invasion of Gaza."UNSC passes resolution calling for end to Russia-Ukraine war"The UN Security Council has passed a resolution urging a “swift end” to the Russia-Ukraine war, though it fell short of stronger language pushed by the UK and EU. The US-drafted measure passed with 10 votes in favor and five abstentions.While hailed as a crucial step toward peace, the resolution avoided direct mention of Russia’s annexations—fueling criticism. European envoys stressed Ukraine must dictate its own peace, rejecting any “false equivalence” between aggressor and victim."Russia proposes joint exploration of rare earth metals, energy with US"Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a rare economic deal with the US, offering joint exploration of rare earth metals and a potential supply of 2 million tons of aluminum annually—if US tariffs are lifted.He also hinted at energy cooperation in Siberia. Putin chaired a meeting with his officials to discuss rare earth metals following US President Donald Trump's statement, in which he said major economic development transactions with Russia would take place.Meanwhile, the Russian president signaled openness to slashing defence budgets by 50 percent to ease global tensions."Fighting in DR Congo's east kills 7,000 since January"Fighting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s eastern region has claimed 7,000 lives since January, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka has confirmed. Speaking in Geneva, she highlighted that over 3,000 deaths occurred in Goma alone, many of them civilians. Tuluka echoed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' concerns about the M23 rebel offensive, which is fuelling violence and human rights abuses.Amid growing fears of a regional war, she called for an immediate ceasefire and troop withdrawal, and welcomed US sanctions against Rwanda for supporting the rebel group."Apple announces $500B US investment in software development"Apple has pledged a massive investment of over $500 billion in the US over the next four years, a move that will create 20,000 new jobs, focusing on research and development, artificial intelligence, and software development.The tech giant will also open a manufacturing plant in Houston and an academy in Detroit to support advanced manufacturing. The company's CEO Tim Cook expressed confidence in America's innovation future, further cementing the company’s commitment to US growth, following President Trump's tariff-driven push for domestic production."
Hamas announces halt in talks until Israel frees Palestinian prisoners"Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi announced the resistance group would halt negotiations with Israel until Palestinian prisoners held by Tel Aviv are released. The decision comes after Israel cancelled freeing of 620 Palestinian prisoners, initially set for Saturday.The United States backed Israel’s decision.Separately, Israel has heightened its military readiness near Gaza, while President Donald Trump reaffirmed support for Israel’s war on enclave."Germany's Christian political alliance declares election victory"Germany’s opposition leader, Friedrich Merz, declared victory as projections showed his Christian conservative political alliance securing 28.5 percent of the vote, surging past rivals.Merz urged swift coalition talks to restore Germany’s leadership.Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party SPD, suffered a historic defeat at 16.5 percent, while the far-right Alternative for Germany AfD, soared to 20.6 percent.Coalition negotiations remain uncertain, with smaller parties struggling to meet the 5 percent threshold. Voter turnout hit a record high of 84 percent."US pushes for Ukraine-Russia peace deal based on Istanbul pact"The US says it is ""very close"" to brokering a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, modeled after the Istanbul Protocol Agreement, says Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff.Speaking to CNN, he stressed that the war was ""provoked"" and must end.Meanwhile, Ukraine has resisted US pressure to withdraw its European-backed UN resolution demanding Russia’s withdrawal, according to officials, setting the stage for a high-stakes vote on Monday."CAIR condemn Musk's claim that US Muslim aid groups are terrorists"The Council on American-Islamic Relations CAIR has condemned Elon Musk for amplifying claims that US Muslim aid groups receiving USAID funds are “terrorist organisations.” CAIR warns that such rhetoric fuels Islamophobia and puts Muslim Americans at risk.Musk’s post targeted over a dozen nonprofits, including Islamic Relief and Palestine Children's Relief Fund.""Anyone who sees the word 'Islam' in the name of an American charity and then immediately declares that the charity must be a 'terrorist organisation' is a hateful person,"" CAIR said."Thousands gather in Beirut to mourn Hezbollah leaders killed by Israel"People gathered in Beirut to mourn the late Hezbollah leaders, Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine. Hezbollah's Naim Qassem condemned Israel for breaching a ceasefire deal and stressed the group's readiness to defend Lebanon. The funeral comes after a fragile ceasefire, marking the end of intense clashes between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite Israel’s delayed withdrawal, Qassem vowed that neither Israel nor the US would pressure Lebanon into submission.The fallen leaders were assassinated in September and October of 2024."
Israel strikes several locations along Syrian-Lebanese borderThe Israeli army has said it carried out air strikes on several locations along the Syria-Lebanon border, alleging the sites were being used for weapons transfers to Hezbollah.The Israeli military further claimed that such smuggling efforts "are a blatant violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon."This marks the second time in less than 48 hours that Israel has announced air strikes in the border region.Trump says US close to minerals deal with Ukraine, wants aid 'money back'President Donald Trump said the United States is close to an agreement with Ukraine on sharing revenue from Ukrainian minerals as part of efforts to end the Ukraine war, saying his intent is to recover the aid Washington has provided."Europe has given $100 billion. The United States has given $350 billion because we had a stupid, incompetent president and administration," he told the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Saturday.The president argued that Washington should not bear the burden alone.DRC's Tshisekedi plans unity government in response to rebels' offensiveCongolese President Felix Tshisekedi will launch a unity government, his spokesperson has said, as he faces domestic pressure over his handling of an offensive by M23 rebels in eastern provinces.Since the start of the year, DRC has faced back-to-back losses in North and South Kivu provinces, fuelling criticism of the authorities' military strategy.Israel may deploy tanks in northern West Bank for 1st time since 2002The Israeli army may deploy tanks to the northern occupied West Bank for the first time in 23 years, a media outlet has reported.According to Channel 14, citing anonymous sources, the political leadership is "pressuring for the inclusion of tanks” in the ongoing military raids in the northern occupied West Bank.The tanks "could soon participate" in the raids, the sources further indicated. It added that the decision came "after pressure from the political leadership."*Gambian information minister praises strong bilateral ties with TürkiyeGambian Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services Minister Ismaila Ceesay stated that Türkiye has very strong bilateral relations with Gambia.It is important for Gambians to know their friends and to fully understand Turkish culture, traditions, geography, and history, he stated.Ceesay also suggested signing a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in capacity building, experience sharing, and news exchange between the two countries.
Hamas hands over bodies of four captives killed by Israeli bombingChina supports Trump's Ukraine peace initiative at G20Major Al Shabab attack repelled, 130 terrorists killed: SomaliaMultiple explosions hit buses in central IsraelSyria economic recovery could take over half a century: UN
- Israel, Hamas complete 6th prisoner swap amid fears of Gaza truce collapsePalestinian resistance group hands over three Israeli captives in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners freed by Israel, completing the latest swap despite fears of the Gaza truce deal collapsing.Four recently freed Palestinian prisoners were rushed to the hospital upon arrival in Ramallah due to severe health complications, a humanitarian group says, amid reports of abuse in Israeli custody.Negotiations on a second phase of the ceasefire, meant to lay out steps towards a more permanent end to the war, are expected to begin next week. Israel kills 3 in southern Lebanon in new ceasefire violationAn Israeli air strike on a car in southern Lebanon killed three people and wounded five others, marking another violation of the ceasefire that began on November 27.Lebanon’s Civil Defence confirmed the attack in Jarjouaa village, Nabatieh, as Israeli violations in Lebanon reach 936 since the truce, with 76 killed and 270 injured, according to official Lebanese data. Trump team to start Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Saudi ArabiaSenior US officials will hold peace talks with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Saudi Arabia in the coming days, a US lawmaker and a source familiar with the plans confirmed.Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and White House Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff will lead the discussions, US Representative Michael McCaul said. UN chief calls for DRC’s territorial integrity amid fears of regional warUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) territorial integrity to be respected and warned against the escalation of war in the region.Speaking at the African Union summit, Guterres said fighting in South Kivu due to the M23 offensive risks destabilising the entire region. His remarks came a day after Rwandan-backed M23 rebels seized a second provincial capital in eastern DRC. Trump seeks 50% stake in Ukraine’s rare earth minerals for aidThe Trump administration has proposed that the US receive a 50% ownership stake in Ukraine’s rare earth minerals as compensation for military and financial aid, NBC News reported, citing US officials.The proposal would grant Washington partial control over Ukraine’s critical mineral resources instead of direct financial repayment. It also includes a provision to deploy US troops to safeguard these assets, but only if a diplomatic resolution with Russia is reached.
- Palestine awaits freedom of 369 citizens from Israeli jailsIsrael is set to free 369 Palestinians as part of the sixth exchange since the Gaza ceasefire, often breached by Tel Aviv, that took effect on January 19.In a statement, the Palestinian Prisoners' Media Office, affiliated with Hamas resistance group, said the released will include 36 Palestinians serving life sentences and 333 from Gaza who were abducted by Israel after October 7, 2023. Twenty-four of the released will be sent abroad.In return, Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, announced the names of three Israeli captives scheduled for release as part of the swap deal. Erdogan warns of US 'miscalculation' on GazaTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called the approval of forced displacement completely unacceptable and described it as pure brutality, referring to US President Donald Trump's proposal for the future of Palestine's Gaza.Discussing the United States' approach to the Middle East, Erdogan criticised its miscalculations, remarking, "One should not disregard the region's history, values, and heritage.""We expect Trump to fulfil the promise he made before the election. He should take steps to build peace, not start a new war," Erdogan said Jewish People Say No to Ethnic Cleansing' — 350+ rabbis sign NYT adMore than 350 rabbis, alongside Jewish creatives and activists, have signed a full-page ad in The New York Times condemning President Donald Trump's controversial proposal for the forced expulsion of over 2 million Palestinians from Gaza.The ad features signatories from diverse Jewish denominations and notable figures such as Tony Kushner, Ilana Glazer, Joaquin Phoenix and Peter Beinart.The text of the ad on NYT's page A7 reads: "Trump has called for the removal of all Palestinians from Gaza. Jewish people say NO to ethnic cleansing!"* M23 rebels enter eastern DRC's Bukavu cityM23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have entered the region's second-largest city of Bukavu, the latest ground gained since a major escalation of their yearslong fighting with government forces.The M23 rebels entered the city's Kazingu and Bagira zone and were advancing towards the centre of the city of about 1.3 million people.Videos posted online appeared to show rebels marching toward the Bagira area. * Roadside bomb kills multiple mine workers in Pakistan's BalochistanA bomb targeting a vehicle carrying coal miners in southwestern Pakistan killed at least 11 people and wounded six others. The truck had brought the workers to a mine in the Harnai area of Balochistan province, where Pakistan is battling insurgency.A military official has said that an improvised explosive device was planted at the roadside which exploded when truck carting coal miners reached the site.
Hamas willing to move ahead with Gaza deal"The Palestinian resistance group Hamas has signalled that a crisis threatening to unravel the Gaza ceasefire deal could be avoided despite uncertainty over the number of hostages due to be released on Saturday and disagreements over aid supplies.Hamas said it did not want the deal to collapse, though it rejected what it called the ""language of threats and intimidation"" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump."Erdogan, Sharif pledge stronger Türkiye-Pakistan ties in Islamabad"Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation.Turkish President said during a joint news conference in Islamabad that the two countries agree to increase efforts to reach the target of $5 billion in trade volume.Erdogan underscored the importance of private-sector collaboration, encouraging Turkish investors to expand their activities in Pakistan."Trump offers F-35 jets, trade deal to India in talks with Modi"US President Donald Trump has offered to sell state-of-the-art fighter jets to India as he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to ramp up trade, rekindling a bond that defies the new US administration's punitive approach to much of the world.Trump, who hours before meeting Modi complained about Indian tariffs, agreed with Modi that the two countries would work together on a trade deal."Trump wants denuclearisation talks with Russia's Putin and China's Xi"US President Donald Trump has said he wants to hold talks with Russia and China on a mutual reduction in military spending, with a possible summit for the countries' leaders.Outlining his vision for a shake-up in the world order, Trump also said he would ""love"" to have Russia back in the G7, from which it was suspended in 2014 after Moscow annexed Ukraine's Crimea peninsula. Trump also said he would consider a summit with Putin and China's Xi Jinping when things calm down."US inks plans for 'reciprocal tariffs'"US President Donald Trump has inked plans for sweeping ""reciprocal tariffs"" hitting both allies and competitors, in a dramatic escalation of an international trade war that economists warn could fuel inflation at home.Speaking in the Oval Office on Trump said he had decided to impose the reciprocal duties, telling reporters that US allies were often ""worse than enemies"" on trade issues.""We had a very unfair system to us,"" Trump said in the Oval Office."
Egyptian, Jordanian leaders stress 'unity' of positions on Gaza"Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II reaffirmed their united stance on Gaza, emphasising the urgent need for a full ceasefire, continued hostage releases and humanitarian aid. The joint statement came a day after Jordan's king met with US President Donald Trump in Washington.Both leaders also pushed for a swift reconstruction plan for Gaza, opposing Trump's plan, which the US president suggested rooting out Palestinians from their lands."UN warns Israel's genocidal acts in Gaza could be repeated in West Bank"Israel's genocidal acts in Gaza could spread to the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, warns UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese. Speaking to Anadolu in the Netherlands, she said Israeli attacks have escalated, with 830 Palestinians killed and over 300 detained from October 2023 to October 2024.Many detainees have faced torture, rape and even death in custody, she noted.Albanese condemned unchecked settler violence and urged the world to act: Even if you don’t conclude that this is genocide, doesn’t matter. There’s an obligation to prevent a genocide."Trump says he will likely meet Putin in Saudi Arabia"US President Donald Trump says he will probably meet his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Saudi Arabia—a step towards ending the Ukraine conflict.""I'll be dealing with President Putin, largely on the phone, and we ultimately expect to meet. In fact, we expect that he'll come here, and I'll go there, and we're going to meet also, probably in Saudi Arabia,"" he told reporters in the Oval Office.Trump downplayed Ukraine’s NATO membership and cast doubt on its full territorial recovery. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed Trump’s interest in achieving peace, insisting that global unity can pressure Russia into ending the war."North Korea demolishes war reunion center: South Korea"North Korea is tearing down the Mount Kumgang Reunion Center, a site that once brought together families separated by the Korean War. South Korea has condemned the demolition as ""inhumane"" and demands an immediate halt. Since 1988, over 133,600 South Koreans have registered as separated families, yet only a fraction have reunited. As of 2025, around 36,000 are alive, according to official data.The last meeting between the two was in 2018. Pyongyang now labels Seoul a “hostile state.”"NASA warns astronomers about asteroid's updated trajectory"NASA's latest update has astronomers on high alert: Asteroid 2024 YR4, a 90-meter-wide rock, now has a 2.3 percent chance of striking Earth on December 22, 2032. While the risk remains low, the increase from 1.3 percent has sparked renewed focus on its trajectory. Experts assure there is no immediate threat but emphasize the importance of planetary defence. If it were to hit, the asteroid could cause severe seismic activity and regional climate disruptions. Ongoing research and improved tracking methods aim to refine predictions and mitigate potential risks."
Erdogan visits Malaysia, Indonesia & Pakistan under Türkiye’s ‘Asia Anew Initiative’"Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on an official visit to Malaysia, Indonesia and Pakistan as part of Türkiye’s Asia Anew initiative, aimed at deepening economic, political, and strategic ties in the region.Discussions focused on cooperation in trade, defence, technology, education, disaster management, media, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The Asia Anew policy, launched in 2019, seeks to expand Ankara’s engagement across Asia."Gaza rebuild plan without expelling residents in place — Jordan"Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi announced a joint Arab, Egyptian, and Palestinian plan to rebuild Gaza without displacing its residents. Speaking to Al Mamlaka TV, he emphasized the need to maintain aid flow and uphold the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.Safadi did not share specific details on the reconstruction plan but reaffirmed Jordan’s stance: ""Jordan is for Jordanians, and Palestine is for Palestinians."""At least 118 Palestinians killed by Israel in Gaza since ceasefire: official"At least 118 Palestinians have been killed and 822 wounded in Gaza since the ceasefire took effect on Jan. 19, according to the Health Ministry in the enclave.Director-General Munir al-Bursh said that the toll includes those killed in direct Israeli attacks, those who succumbed to injuries, and victims of unexploded ordnance. Of the total deaths, 92 resulted from direct Israeli assaults."Ukraine ready to offer territory swap with Russia — Zelenskyy"Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has suggested offering a territorial swap with Russia in any future peace negotiations to end their nearly three-year war.Speaking to the UK's Guardian, Zelenskyy said Ukraine could propose exchanging land, including territory seized in Russia’s Kursk region six months ago. However, he emphasised that ""all our territories are important, there is no priority."""Modi’s BJP fuels extremism as anti-Muslim speech surges in India - report"Hate speech targeting religious minorities in India saw a ""staggering"" rise in 2024, according to a report by US-based think tank India Hate Lab.The report links the surge to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the broader Hindu nationalist movement. Critics and civil rights groups have accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP of escalating anti-Muslim rhetoric during last year’s national elections to mobilise the Hindu majority."
Palestinians have no right to return to Gaza: Trump"US President Donald Trump has unveiled a controversial plan for Gaza, proposing a ""real estate development for the future"" that denies Palestinians the right to return their homes.In a Fox News interview, Trump suggested relocating Gaza’s population to newly built communities elsewhere.Egyptian and Jordanian leaders rushed to Washington for talks, as global criticism mounts.The American leader hinted at cutting US aid to both nations if they refuse to accept Palestinians from the Israel beseiged enclave.Meanwhile, Palestinian resistance group Hamas has postponed the planned release of Israeli captives, blaming Tel Aviv for violating the ceasefire deal.In response, Trump vowed to cancel the Gaza ceasefire deal if all hostages aren’t freed. “If all of the hostages aren't returned by Saturday 12 o'clock ... all bets are off and let hell break out,” he said."Israel expands its assaults in West Bank, targeting Palestinians"Israeli forces continues in their attacks on occupied West Bank, storm the Aqbat Jabr refugee camp in Jericho, raiding Palestinian shops and neighbourhoods. Meanwhile, in Masafer Yatta, bulldozers demolished five Palestinian homes and a cave sheltering 40 people, cutting electricity and water. The raids came amid a broader Israeli offensive since January 21, leaving over 30 Palestinians dead in the region."Venezuela sends planes to bring back undocumented migrants from US"Venezuela has sent two planes to repatriate undocumented migrants from the US, following a deal with the Trump administration. It comes after President Nicolas Maduro agreed to accept deported migrants and provide transportation. Some deportees are suspected of ties to the Tren de Aragua gang. The arrangement follows a January 31 meeting between Maduro and US envoy Richard Grenell. While the specifics of the talks remain unclear, Maduro hinted at a ""new beginning"" in US-Venezuela relations."Romania's president quits to pre-empt impeachment bid"Romania’s outgoing president Klaus Iohannis has resigned to avoid a political crisis amidst plans by right-wing opposition parties to impeach him. ""The request will have consequences both domestically and abroad,"" Iohannis said. His resignation came after a tumultuous election season marked by accusations of Russian interference and institutional instability. Moscow denies any involvement.Senate Speaker Ilie Bolojan will serve as interim president until elections in May. "Sam Altman rejects Musk’s $97.4 billion OpenAI takeover attempt"Elon Musk is making waves again—this time with a $97.4 bid to buy OpenAI. Leading a group of investors, Musk wants to reclaim the ChatGPT maker and allegedly restore its nonprofit mission. But OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman isn’t having it, responding on X with a sharp “No thank you,” and a cheeky counteroffer to buy Twitter for $9.74. Meanwhile, a legal battle rages on, with a judge questioning OpenAI’s Microsoft ties and paving the way for a trial next year."
Arab nations slam Netanyahu's comments for Palestinian state on Saudi land"Arab nations have fiercely rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal of a Palestinian state on Saudi land. Saudi Arabia slammed the idea as a diversion from Israel’s actions in Gaza, while the Arab League called it ""detached from reality."" The Saudi foreign ministry said Netanyahu's statements aim to divert attention from the continuous crimes committed against Palestinians in Gaza.Regional outrage followed, with Jordan, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates denouncing the remarks as violations of international law."No power can force Palestinians out of their homeland: Türkiye"Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that no force can expel Palestinians from their homeland.""Palestine, including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, belongs to the Palestinians,"" Erdogan said.Speaking in Istanbul before departing for Malaysia, another nation opposing Israeli war in the region, Erdogan dismissed US proposals on Gaza, calling them unworthy of discussion."Dozens killed in terror attack in Mali"At least 25 gold miners were killed, and 13 injured in a brutal terrorist ambush near Mali’s Gao region, the army confirmed. The attack targeted a convoy of miners under military escort. In swift retaliation, Malian forces eliminated 19 terrorists.The assault, near Kobe, saw militants fire on fleeing civilians. No group has claimed responsibility, however, Daesh and Al-Qaeda-linked factions operate in the area."Colombia's Petro urges ministers to resign ahead of reshuffle"Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called for the resignation of his entire cabinet ahead of an approaching reshuffle. The decision came after Environment Minister Susana Muhamad’s resignation in protest of Petro’s appointment of Armando Benedetti, citing concerns.Petro says the changes aim to better fulfill his administration’s mandate."US funnelled $472 million for 'state propaganda': WikiLeaks"WikiLeaks has unveiled shocking details in a report, claiming that the US funnelled $472.6 million into Internews Network—a global non-governmental organisation accused of covert censorship and media control.USAspending data shows 87% of the funding —equivalent to $415 million — came from USAID, while the US State Department added $57 million.With ties to Soros and Clinton initiatives, Wikileaks also said Internews trained 9,000 journalists and backed social media censorship. As Trump freezes USAID’s budget, critics call it a “state propaganda network.”"
- Israel displaces 400 Palestinians in West Bank refugee campA Palestinian official has confirmed that 400 Palestinians have been displaced from the Al Faraa refugee camp in southern Tubas in the northern occupied West Bank on the seventh day of an Israeli assault on the camp.Tubas and Northern Jordan Valley Governor Ahmed Al Asad said that about 400 Palestinians from Al Faraa camp have been displaced so far amid the ongoing Israeli military offensive. Freed Palestinians say Israeli forces tortured them for not reciting TorahFreed Palestinians have revealed that Israeli forces violently attacked them because they refused to recite verses from the Torah.Prisoners said they were violently attacked hours before release because they refused to recite a verse that included a threat to Palestinians. Several arrested in German police crackdown on pro-Palestine protestGerman police have arrested several pro-Palestine protestors in Berlin and forced them to stop playing music and chanting slogans against Israel's genocide and ethnic cleansing of Palestinians during a rally.Hundreds of people gathered at the square near the Wittenbergplatz metro station in support of Palestine, under the slogan "Stop the aggression in the West Bank — Do not supply weapons to Israel." After Biden, Trump revokes security clearances for Blinken, SullivanPresident Donald Trump has revoked security clearances for Antony Blinken, the former secretary of state, and Jake Sullivan, the former national security adviser, White House officials said.The move came a day after Trump said he had revoked the security clearance for his predecessor Joe Biden, stopping his access to daily intelligence briefings.Trump also revoked security clearances for Biden's Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, who helped coordinate the Department of Justice's response to the January 6, 2021, riots by Trump supporters in the US Capitol. US judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing Treasury payment systemsA federal judge has temporarily blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing a critical Treasury Department payment system, citing the risk of "irreparable harm."US District Judge in Manhattan issued the order after a coalition of Democratic attorneys general from 19 US states filed a lawsuit late arguing Musk's DOGE has no legal power to access the US Department of Treasury systems.The court ruling prevents DOGE from accessing the system that processes Social Security benefits, Medicaid and Medicare payments to doctors, and payments to other federal agencies.
- Israel to release 183 Palestinians; Hamas to free 3 IsraelisHamas has named three Israeli captives set for release today in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners under the ceasefire deal. The latest exchange follows official statements in which authorities in Gaza accuse Israel of blocking humanitarian aid and essential supplies from entering the territory. US approves $7.4B sale of bombs, missiles to IsraelThe US has approved a $7.4 billion arms sale to Israel, including bombs, missiles, and related equipment used in its war on Gaza. The State Department signed off on $6.75 billion in bombs and guidance kits, plus $660 million in Hellfire missiles. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of the sale. Seventy-nine ICC member nations condemn US sanctions in joint statementSeventy-nine parties to the International Criminal Court condemned US President Donald Trump's sanctions, warning they increase the "risk of impunity" for serious crimes. A joint statement, led by Slovenia, Luxembourg, Mexico, Sierra Leone, and Vanuatu, said the move threatens global order and security. They were joined by dozens of other nations, including Britain, France, Germany, Canada, Brazil and Bangladesh.The ICC also condemned the sanctions, vowing to continue delivering justice. Tanzania to host DRC, Rwanda leaders as Kigali-backed M23 rebels fight onRwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC’s Felix Tshisekedi will meet in Tanzania as regional leaders seek to ease the conflict in eastern DRC. The summit in Dar es Salaam on Saturday will gather leaders from the East African Community and the South African Development Community. The Rwanda-backed M23 armed group has seized territory in eastern DRC, causing thousands of deaths and mass displacement. Türkiye's Oruc Reis conducted seismic studies in Somali watersTürkiye’s Oruc Reis vessel has completed 50% of its seismic studies in Somali waters, Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar announced. The vessel has been exploring oil and gas off Somalia’s coast since docking in Mogadishu last October. Bayraktar met Somalia’s Petroleum Minister Dahir Shire Mohamed in Istanbul to discuss the next phase of exploration and potential collaborations on land.
Israel bombards Lebanon, breaching truce deal"Israeli warplanes carried out new violations of a ceasefire agreement with air strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon. Fighter jets targeted an eastern mountain range near the Beqaa Valley, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported. Two more air strikes hit Nabatiyeh district, striking the valley between Bfaroueh and Aazze. Israeli jets also flew over Beirut and its suburbs, further escalating tensions."Trump’s Gaza plan mirrors his son-in-law’s waterfront property idea"US President Donald Trump’s proposal to take over Gaza and displace Palestinians echoes past comments by his son-in-law Jared Kushner on Gaza’s ""waterfront property."" Last year, Kushner suggested Israel should remove Palestinians via the Rafah crossing or Negev Desert while it ""cleans up"" the area. He claimed the enclave’s coastline could be valuable with the ""right diplomacy."""Trump sanctions ICC over arrest warrant against ally Netanyahu"US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) over its investigations into the US and Israel. The order accused the ICC of ""abusing its power"" after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It includes asset freezes and travel bans on ICC officials and others involved in the court’s probes."‘It is time for peace’ in Democratic Republic of Congo: UN chief"UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo, describing the situation as ""deeply concerning."" Speaking in New York, he urged global unity ahead of a summit in Tanzania with East African and South African leaders. The meeting will focus on M23 rebel attacks and ongoing clashes with the Congolese military."Massive asteroid has 1 in 43 chance of colliding with Earth"NASA has raised the odds of asteroid 2024 YR hitting Earth in 2032 to 2.3%, up from 1.3% estimated by the European Space Agency last week. The football field-sized asteroid could release energy equivalent to eight megatons of TNT if it enters Earth's atmosphere. While smaller than the dinosaur-killing asteroid, it would still cause significant destruction."
Netanyahu supports Trump’s plan for Palestinian expulsion from Gaza"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended US President Donald Trump's controversial proposal of Palestinian ethnic cleansing from Gaza, asking in a Fox News interview, ""What’s wrong with that?""He suggested that Gaza residents could leave, return or relocate as part of so-called rebuilding efforts.Meanwhile, Israel is officially pulling out of the UN Human Rights Council or UNHRC, aligning with Trump’s move.Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar declared, “Israel joins the US and will not participate in the UNHRC.”"Türkiye, Germany urge global action for two-state solution"Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier are calling for urgent global action to secure a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and revive the two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.Speaking in Ankara, both leaders stressed the need for diplomacy and adherence to international law.""As the international community, we must continue our efforts for a two-state solution,"" Erdogan said.Steinmeier also slammed Donald Trump’s proposal to expel Palestinians, calling it “unacceptable.”"Russia, Ukraine swap 150 prisoners of war with UAE mediation"Russia and Ukraine each returned 150 servicemen, marking another step in ongoing negotiations.Russia’s Defence Ministry confirmed its troops are in Belarus for medical and psychological care before heading home.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the return of troops from various military branches, calling it “a good day.”Both nations thanked the United Arab Emirates for brokering the deal, signaling continued diplomatic efforts despite the war’s relentless toll."UN reports 2,800 deaths in DRC’s Goma due to escalating violence"The death toll from the fighting in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern city of Goma has surpassed 2,800, according to the United Nations.Despite a declared ceasefire, the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan forces, has resumed its offensive, seizing key areas.The intense fighting has sparked international concern, with fears of a wider regional conflict.Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation. However, the renewed violence persists, with ongoing concerns about its impact on the civilian population.""A federal judge in the US has issued a nationwide injunction blocking President Trump's executive-order seeking to end birthright citizenship for children born in the country to undocumented immigrants.The judge ruled that the order violates the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to all persons born or naturalised in the United States.This is the second court to block the order, which has been met with widespread legal challenges.The Trump administration has argued that children born in the US to undocumented immigrants are not ""subject to the jurisdiction"" of the United States and therefore not entitled to citizenship."
US will 'take over' Gaza: Trump"President Donald Trump announced the US will ""take over"" and oversee the Palestinian territory Gaza, during the meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump claimed global support for American control, pledging reconstruction, economic growth and security.He did not rule out deploying troops. Netanyahu called the plan ""history-changing."" Trump previously suggested throwing Palestinians outside Gaza permanently. He said he would visit the region in the future."Second phase of Gaza ceasefire talks resume in Doha"Negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire have kicked off in Doha, with Hamas accusing Israel of stalling humanitarian aid. ""Shelter and humanitarian aid are urgent priorities that cannot be subject to Israeli delays,"" said Hamas spokesperson Abdel Latif al-Qanoua. Meanwhile, Israel has dispatched a team for talks, signalling potential progress ahead of PM Netanyahu’s high-stakes meeting with President Trump.The ceasefire, in place since January 19, has halted months of Israeli genocidal war in Gaza, with both sides exchanging captives under the agreement."Sweden reels from rare school shooting tragedy"Sweden is in mourning after a rare school shooting left around 10 people dead, including the suspected gunman, at an education centre in Orebro.Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called it ""a painful day for the whole country.""Authorities are still searching the school for more victims, while investigations into attempted murder, arson and weapons offences are underway.Witnesses describe chaos and fear as students flee. No police officers were injured."US suspends incoming packages from China, Hong Kong"President Donald Trump's new trade measures with China take effect.US Postal Service has paused international parcels from China and Hong Kong. Trump imposed a fresh 10 percent tariff on Chinese imports and closed the ""de minimis"" rule, which let duty-free shipments under $800 flood the US. Fast-fashion giants Shein and Temu —major players in this trade— may feel the pinch. USPS said the change will not impact the flow of letters. Meanwhile, China also imposed additional tariffs on US products and banned several companies."Russia revives Soviet-era Intervision as alternative to Eurovision"Russia is bringing back Intervision, the Soviet alternative to Eurovision, as a showcase for “traditional values.” Ordered by President Vladimir Putin, the contest will be held in Moscow, featuring China, Cuba, Brazil, and other allies. Unlike Eurovision—banned from Russia since 2022—Intervision will exclude political themes and LGBTQ+ representation. Putin positions it as a stand against Western ""decadence,"" reinforcing his vision of Russia as a guardian of moral traditions."
Gaza ceasefire uncertain, says Trump"The United States President Donald Trump warns there are ""no guarantees"" the Gaza ceasefire will hold, despite his envoy confirming it’s intact—for now. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump painted a grim picture, saying ""I've seen people brutalised. No, I have no guarantees that the peace is going to hold,"" he said.Meanwhile, Trump prepares to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—his first official meeting with a foreign leader since taking office.The International Criminal Court issued a war crimes arrest warrant for Netanyahu last year, stating that he bears ""criminal responsibility"" for crimes committed during Israel's genocidal war in Gaza."Arab nations push back against Trump's Palestinian displacement project"Top diplomats from Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, along with a senior Palestinian official, sent a joint letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, firmly rejecting any displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.First reported by Axios, the letter underlined that Gaza’s reconstruction must involve its people, ensuring they remain in their homeland with international support.The envoys' letter came after US President Donald Trump offered to cleanse Gaza and relocate Palestinians to other nations from the Israel-besieged enclave."Russia says it's too soon to discuss Zelenskyy's peace proposal"Kremlin has said it’s too soon to discuss Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s proposed four-way peace talks with the US, Russia and the EU. Zelenskyy warned it would be “very dangerous” for Washington and Moscow to negotiate without Kiev. The Ukrainian president's remarks follow the news about US-Russia discussions, though Moscow denies direct talks with the Trump administration. The Kremlin contests Zelenskyy’s negotiation authority, citing his expired term under martial law."M23 rebels declare ceasefire in DRC but hold control of Goma"Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have declared a unilateral ceasefire in eastern Congo, citing humanitarian concerns—yet they remain firmly in control of Goma, a mineral-rich city of two million. The ceasefire follows deadly clashes that left at least 900 dead. The DRC government has yet to respond, while Rwanda continues to deny backing the rebels.Meanwhile, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame agreed to meet to calm the tensions."Trump halts tariffs after Mexico, Canada agree on border deals"US President Donald Trump has paused the imposition of tariffs on Mexico and Canada for a month, following the US neighbours struck last-minute deals to tighten border measures against the flow of migrants and the drug fentanyl.Mexico will deploy 10,000 National Guard troops to strengthen its northern border against drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Separately, Canada is enhancing its $1.3 billion border plan, with new technology, personnel and a dedicated fentanyl czar. Both leaders emphasised close cooperation, with Canada also committing to combat organised crime and drug trafficking in partnership with the US."
Israel strikes West Bank camp, turning it into Gaza: official"Israeli forces are unleashing air strikes residential blocks in Jenin’s refugee camp, reflecting the destruction seen in Gaza, a Palestinian official has said.Jenin Governor Kamal Abu al Rub warns of an effort to render the camp unlivable, demolishing homes and infrastructure. ""The war has shifted from Gaza to the West Bank,"" he said, likening it to genocide. He said that it is the first such bombing since 2002, when Israeli assault left parts of the camp in ruins."Hamas calls the Hague Group key to end Israeli occupation"Hamas has praised the formation of The Hague Group, a coalition of nine countries aimed at addressing Israel’s violations of international law.The group, which includes South Africa, Malaysia and others, seeks to end Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and support Palestinian self-determination. Hamas called the initiative a crucial step to isolate Israel internationally and to end the ""racist and fascist occupation."""Mexico, Canada to counter US tariffs fight"Mexico and Canada are standing firm against new US tariffs.Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has vowed retaliatory measures under ""Plan B.""She warned that American consumers would bear the cost.Meanwhile, Canada is gearing up for a legal battle, preparing a World Trade Organization claim and a $20 billion counter-tariff list targeting US goods."Germany sees massive protests over CDU's far-right collaboration"At least 160,000 people took to the streets of Berlin to protest the Christian Democratic Union or CDU, Germany's largest party, moving closer to the far right.Demonstrators accused party leader Friedrich Merz of striking a ""pact with the devil"" by seeking support from the far-right Alternative for Germany party or AfD. The rally preceded Germany's February 23 snap federal election, sparking widespread nationwide outrage."OpenAI launches ChatGPT's latest agent 'deep research'"OpenAI has unveiled a new AI tool capable of conducting complex internet research called ""deep research"". Powered by a specialised version of the upcoming o3 model, deep research can analyse and synthesise information from various online sources, including text, images and PDFs, to generate comprehensive reports."
- Israel kills 5 Palestinians in occupied West Bank Israel has killed five Palestinians in strikes in Jenin in the occupied West Bank.An Israeli air strike on an eastern neighbourhood of Jenin killed 16-year-old Ahmad al Sadi and critically wounded two other people.A second strike targeted a car, killing two people in the nearby town of Qabatiya, while a third killed two people in central Jenin. Freed Palestinian prisoners report beatings, death threats before releaseMeanwhile, Palestinian prisoners released by Israel as part of the Gaza ceasefire and exchange deal said they were mistreated in the days leading to their freedom.During their reception in Ramallah, occupied West Bank, several prisoners said they faced death threats from the Israeli army, endured severe beatings, and were deprived of food and water.The deteriorating health condition of the released prisoners was evident, with some appearing unable to walk on their own. Trump imposes tariffs on Canada, Mexico, ChinaUS President Donald Trump has ordered 25 percent tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports and 10 percent on goods from China to address a national emergency over fentanyl and illegal immigrants entering the US, The White House has said energy resources from Canada will have a lower 10 percent levy. The US accused Mexico of being the "world's leading traffickers" of fentanyl and other drugs. Regarding Canada, the White House highlighted growing fentanyl production and illegal border crossings. China was criticised for its alleged role in subsidising chemical companies in exporting fentanyl. Canada hits back against US tariffsCanada and Mexico have announced retaliatory measures against tariffs imposed earlier on their goods by US President Donald Trump.Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada would impose 25 percent tariffs on $106.5 billion of US goods in response to US tariffs.Trudeau warned the tariffs would hurt the United States, a long-time ally.He encouraged Canadians to buy Canadian products and vacation at home rather than in the US. Turkish defence giants secure over $5.5 billion in exports for 2024Türkiye’s defence industry has reached a major milestone in 2024, with companies such as Baykar and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) generating over 5.5 billion dollars in exports.Baykar, a global leader in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, contributed $1.8 billion to this figure, with international sales accounting for 90 percent of its revenue.The company celebrated the achievement in a statement stating that the cutting-edge technology has made them export leader in the defence and aerospace industry.
- Israel to release 183 Palestinians in fourth prisoner exchangeIsrael is set to release 183 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday as part of the ongoing Gaza ceasefire deal, more than doubling the previously reported figure.Palestinian Prisoners' Club spokeswoman Amani Sarahneh confirmed the updated number on Friday, revising an earlier announcement of 90 prisoners to be freed.Meanwhile, Hamas has named three Israeli hostages who will be released Syrian authorities nab Assad's cousin Najib over crimes against civiliansSyrian security forces have arrested Atef Najib, a cousin of ousted Bashar al Assad and former political security chief in Daraa, over crimes against civilians, including children.The arrest was confirmed by Lt. Col. Mustafa Knefati, director of the Public Security Directorate in Latakia, northwest Syria.Najib is accused of being among the first to commit human rights violations at the start of the 2011 uprising and is also blamed for the arrest and torture of children in Daraa. Intense fighting in DRC's Goma kills 700 people in five days: UNAt least 700 people have been killed since Sunday in intense fighting in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a UN spokesman confirmed.M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has seized Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, and is advancing south as volunteers and the struggling Congolese army attempt to push them back.M23 fighters, who took Goma earlier this week, have vowed to march to the capital, Kinshasa, raising fears of further escalation. Venezuela frees US prisoners as Maduro calls for 'new start' with AmericaVenezuela has freed six Americans after talks between President Nicolas Maduro and a Trump administration official, during which Maduro sought a "new beginning" with Washington.US President Donald Trump and envoy Richard Grenell announced the release on Friday on social media.Grenell’s visit surprised many Venezuelans, who had expected Trump to continue his "maximum pressure" campaign against Maduro from his first term. Israeli spyware targeted scores of WhatsApp users: MetaA WhatsApp official said Israeli spyware company Paragon Solutions had targeted scores of users, including journalists and civil society members.On Friday, WhatsApp sent Paragon a cease-and-desist letter following the hack.Paragon declined to comment.
Israel continues its attacks on Palestine and beyondTel Aviv continues its attacks in the region despite a ceasefire with Hamas in the Palestinian territory of Gaza.Israeli troops raided villages near the occupied West Bank town of Ramallah, setting up checkpoints and firing concussion grenades, according to the WAFA news agency.Separately in Lebanon, Israeli strikes wounded 24 people, including 20 in Nabatiyeh al-Fawqa.Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on February 4.Netanyahu will be the first foreign leader invited during Trump’s second term.Fury in DRC: Protesters target embassies over Goma crisisAnger erupted in Democratic Republic of the Congo's capital Kinshasa as protesters stormed embassies, accusing Rwanda and Uganda of backing M23 rebels in Goma. Following a brutal three-day battle that left over 100 dead and nearly 1,000 wounded, demonstrators damaged diplomatic missions and looted businesses. Chanting "Enough is enough," they denounced the international community’s inaction. As tensions rise, African nations condemn the embassy attacks, while Congolese authorities urge calm amid the escalating crisis.Deaths as stampede breaks out at India Hindu festivalA deadly stampede has claimed over seven lives and left around 10 injured in Uttar Pradesh as around a million Hindus gathered for the Maha Kumbh Mela religious festival. Chaos erupted in the early hours, with panicked devotees scrambling for safety. Disturbing visuals show bodies on stretchers and abandoned belongings scattered in the aftermath. Authorities deployed crisis forces, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged swift action. The festival attracts more than 400 million visitors over six weeks, both Indians and tourists.Trump plans to withdraw hundreds of US troops from Syria — reportUS President Donald Trump is planning to withdraw hundreds of US troops from Syria, according to Israeli media.Nation’s public broadcaster KAN says White House officials have informed Tel Aviv.The US has some 2,000 troops deployed in Syria in support of YPG/PKK terrorist organisation, creating tensions with its NATO ally Türkiye.EV sales to exceed '20 million' units in 2025The electric vehicle market is expected to break records. Sales are set to hit a record 20 million units in 2025—an 18 percent jump from 2024, says Rho Motion.China is leading the charge, backed by aggressive global expansion and strong domestic demand.Meanwhile, the EU tightens emissions rules, and Trump's presidency signals policy shifts in the US.Experts call 2025 “the year of legislation” as the EV revolution accelerates worldwide.
) Over 300K displaced Palestinians return to North GazaOver 300,000 displaced Palestinians journeyed back to northern Gaza under a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, according to media office in the enclave.The truce, effective since January 19, ended 470 days of Israeli genocidal war on Gaza that claimed over 47,300 lives, with countless more wounded and missing.The International Criminal Court issued war crimes warrants for Israeli leadership, while the nation faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.) Congolese troops surrender, civilians flee as M23 rebels seize key cityChaos grips eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as M23 rebels seize key city of Goma, forcing hundreds, including UN staff, to flee to Rwanda.Dozens of DRC troops reportedly surrendered at the border. Inmates staged a fiery escape at Goma’s prison, with 10 killed and 4,400 fleeing.Gunfire echoed, businesses shuttered and Rwanda faces fresh accusations of aiding the rebels while President Paul Kagame denies the claims.DRC's government calls for calm and unity as tensions escalate across borders and airspace remains a flashpoint.)UN chief calls for sustained US foreign aid after Trump's cutThe UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised concerns over US President Donald Trump’s pause on foreign aid, emphasising its critical role for vulnerable communities worldwide. Calling for additional exemptions, Guterres stressed the need to sustain humanitarian efforts.The move stems from a 90-day review of US aid alignment with foreign policy, impacting allies like Ukraine and Jordan.The US provides more foreign aid globally than any other country, budgeting about $60 billion in 2023, or about 1 percent of the US budget.) India and China agree to resume direct flightsIndia and China are gearing up to restore direct flights, nearly five years after the pandemic and border clashes froze ties.The breakthrough announced during a senior Indian diplomat's visit to Beijing signals warming relations between the two populous neighbours.Both nations pledged to rebuild trust, tackle trade issues, and resume a revered Hindu pilgrimage.Talks are set to finalise flight arrangements soon.*) DeepSeek launch wipes out $1 trillion in US tech stocksGlobal tech shares took a $1 trillion hit after China's AI app DeepSeek outpaced US rival ChatGPT in downloads.Nvidia led losses, shedding $600 billion in market value—the largest in US history—while Nasdaq fell 3.1 percent.US President Trump called DeepSeek's rise a "wake-up call" for American firms.The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index saw its steepest drop since 2020.Meanwhile, DeepSeek faced a cyberattack, further fueling volatility as investors sought safe havens in bonds and currencies.
Trump proposes relocating Palestinians outside GazaUS President Donald Trump has proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza to neighbouring countries like Egypt and Jordan, an unusual proposal that was opposed by the former administration of Joe Biden.Speaking to reporters ahead of his departure from Los Angeles for Miami, the president said he raised the matter during a telephone call with King Abdullah II of Jordan, and he might talk with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi on Sunday.The former Biden administration opposed relocating Gaza residents outside the enclave, advocating a return of Palestinians to their homes in the aftermath of a potential peace and a two-state solution. Seventy Palestinian prisoners reach CairoThe head of the Palestinian Commission of Detainees' Affairs, Qadoura Fares, announced that 70 Palestinian prisoners exiled as part of a prisoner exchange deal in Gaza entered Egyptian territory.Fares told Anadolu news agency that all the prisoners are men with life sentences or long-term sentences, and travel documents are currently being prepared for them.He noted that "the prisoners will be accommodated in a Cairo hotel for a few days, where they will receive all necessary services, and a small ceremony will be organised to honour them before determining their final destinations". Oil tanker explosion in Nigeria leaves several deadSeveral victims have been confirmed dead as tragedy struck in Nigeria again when a petrol tanker exploded, according to officials.Multiple sources said that widespread panic affected six other vehicles when the fuel-laden tanker fell while navigating down a hilly busy expressway in Enugu State.Witnesses who shared video of the scene added that no fewer than 15 people, including three children, have been confirmed dead. North Korea test-fires first cruise missile since Trump's returnNorth Korea conducted a test of a strategic cruise missile, state media KCNA reported.It is the first missile test by Pyongyang since the return of Donald Trump to the White House.The strategic cruise missiles flew 1,500 kilometres, hitting targets without affecting the safety of neighbouring countries.* Trump's 2020 election win could have averted 'Ukrainian crisis': PutinIf Donald Trump had been reelected as US president in 2020, the Ukraine crisis that erupted in 2022 might not have occurred, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.In an interview with the Russian Rossiya 1 TV channel on Friday, Putin said that Russia remains open to peace talks on the Ukraine war.He said that Moscow has never rejected contact with the US administration but the previous one opted not to pursue such engagement.
- Israel says UNRWA must leave East Jerusalem by January 30Israel's United Nations envoy, Danny Danon, has told the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres that the UN Palestinian relief agency UNRWA must "cease its operations in [East] Jerusalem, and evacuate all premises in which it operates in the city" by January 30.A law banning UNRWA's operation on Israeli land and contact with Israeli authorities takes effect on January 30. Pete Hegseth confirmed as defence secretary after Vance's tiebreaking voteVice President JD Vance has broken the Senate's 50-50 vote to confirm Pete Hegseth as the US Secretary of Defense despite questions over qualifications and allegations of heavy drinking and aggressive behaviour toward women.The voting late on Friday was at a 50-50 tie before Vance broke the tie.Rarely has a Cabinet nominee faced such wide-ranging concerns about his experience and behaviour as Hegseth, particularly for such a high-profile role leading the US military. UN peacekeepers locked in 'intense' fighting against M23 rebels in DRCThe United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo said that its peacekeepers are "engaged" in "intense" fighting against M23 rebels, who have almost encircled the main city in the country's east.The UN said in a statement that its mission's Quick Reaction Forces have "been actively engaged in intense combat" over the past 48 hours, carrying out heavy artillery fire against M23 positions.The mission reported that heavy clashes were ongoing for the control of Sake — a town in DRC's eastern province of North Kivu. Sudan army breaks RSF's siege on Khartoum HQ, reclaims oil refineryThe Sudanese army has said it broke a siege of its headquarters in Khartoum by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which had encircled it since war broke out in April 2023.In a statement, the army said troops in Bahri (Khartoum North) and Omdurman across the Nile River had "merged with our forces stationed at the General Command of the Armed Forces".A military source confirmed that "the arrival of the forces from Bahri completely lifted the siege on the command". Experts look for clues as mysterious deaths grip India-administered KashmirAuthorities in the India-administered Jammu and Kashmir region are probing the mysterious deaths of 17 people in a remote village, which has led to a lockdown.Over the past month, 17 individuals from three connected families, including 12 children, have died in the village of Badhaal in the Rajouri district, situated along the Line of Control, the boundary between India- and Pakistan-administered parts of the disputed Kashmir region.The deaths took place between December 7 and January 19. Around 200 people have been quarantined, while six others have been hospitalised and are in stable condition, according to officials.
UN says 17,000+ children without their families in GazaIsrael's genocidal war in Gaza has seen children killed, starved, frozen to death, orphaned and separated from their families, the UN humanitarian chief has said.At a UN Security Council meeting, the humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher said that ""a generation has been traumatised.""Conservative estimates indicate that over 17,000 children are without their families in Gaza," he said.Report reveals Google's secret AI support for Israel amid war on Gaza"Google has continued providing AI technologies to Israel's military-industrial complex despite public attempts to distance itself from the country's violent aggressions, according to a report by the Washington Post.According to the newspaper's investigation, Google has been supporting Israel's Defence Ministry and military with artificial intelligence tools since the onset of its attacks on Gaza on October 7, 2023, even as its employees protested the Nimbus cloud computing contract.The company documents reveal Google expedited access to its Vertex AI service for the Israeli Defence Ministry. Internal communications show Google employees were concerned about losing potential contracts to competitors like Amazon if they did not quickly provide AI technology access."Dozens of diplomats, officials ousted in sweeping reset at State Department"In a swift and sweeping move, the Trump administration has directed dozens of senior State Department officials to step aside, triggering one of the most extensive leadership shake-ups in recent history, according to US media.Career diplomats and political appointees alike, including some in top roles overseeing US foreign policy, have been reportedly instructed to vacate their positions in recent days as President Donald Trump's team accelerates its plans to realign the Department with the administration's vision.This dramatic overhaul, which includes the departure of key figures such as John Bass and Geoff Pyatt, has sent shockwaves through Foggy Bottom."M23 rebels battling DRC army approach Goma city after seizing Sake town"Panic has spread in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's main city, with M23 rebels steadily inching closer to Goma and seizing a nearby town as they battle the Congolese army.Bombs were heard going off in the city's distant outskirts and hundreds of wounded civilians were brought in to the main hospital from the area of the fighting.The rebel group has pushed significantly in recent weeks, closing in on Goma, which has around 2 million people and is a regional hub for security and humanitarian efforts."Climate shocks disrupted schooling for 242M children in 2024 — UN"Extreme weather disrupted the schooling of about 242 million children in 85 countries last year — roughly one in seven students, the UN children's agency has reported.It deplored what it said was an ""overlooked"" aspect of the climate crisis.Heat waves had the biggest impact, the report showed, as UNICEF's executive director Catherine Russell warned children are ""more vulnerable"" to extreme weather."
US and Israel discuss Gaza amid Jenin abductionsUS Secretary of State Marco Rubio held his first call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under Trump’s administration. They discussed Iran, Israeli captives in Palestine's Gaza, and reaffirmed US support for Israel. Rubio emphasised Washington's unwavering backing for its ally, calling it a top priority for Trump. Trump sends troops to border, halts refugee arrivalsPresident Trump has deployed 1,500 additional troops to the US-Mexico border and has frozen refugee arrivals. Refugees cleared to enter the US are now in limbo, with travel and processing suspended. Trump’s administration says the moves aim to “secure America’s borders,” but critics argue they could destabilise humanitarian efforts. The orders signal the administration’s firm stance on immigration from day one.Panama challenges Trump over canal threatPanama has taken its dispute with Trump to the UN, denouncing his veiled threat to seize the Panama Canal. In a letter to UN Secretary-General Guterres, Panama cited the UN Charter’s ban on force against member states. The US president accused China of increasing influence over the waterway, sparking tensions. Wildfire forces mass evacuations near Los AngelesA new wildfire is raging north of Los Angeles, tearing over 9,000 acres near Castaic Lake. Fanned by fierce Santa Ana winds, the fire has forced the evacuation of 50,000 people as flames and smoke consume the hillsides. The region, still recovering from earlier wildfires, now faces another round of devastation. 2,200-year-old mosaic unearthed in Türkiye's AssosIn Türkiye’s ancient city of Assos, archaeologists have uncovered a stunning 2,200-year-old mosaic and an 1,800-year-old tomb. The mosaic, a rare Hellenistic treasure, features intricate geometric and floral designs and likely adorned a gymnasium later repurposed in Byzantine times. Head archaeologist Nurettin Arslan hailed the discovery as one of Anatolia’s earliest examples of Hellenistic art.
Day four of the truce reveals grim discoveries in Gaza, with 120 bodies found in bombed homes. While over 2,400 humanitarian aid trucks have entered the enclave, challenges persist. The aid flow offers some relief, but Gaza’s recovery remains overshadowed by the devastation of Israel's 15-month brutal war.Türkiye declared a national day of mourning after a devastating fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Bolu claimed at least 70 lives and injured 51 others. President Erdogan expressed condolences and vowed accountability for the tragedy at the popular ski resort. Calling for unity and compassion, he urged all sectors to respect the nation’s grief during this difficult time. As rescue operations concluded, the country reflected on the immense loss and renewed calls for safety measures.Donald Trump kicks off his new presidency with a bold move, firing 1,000 opponents in his administration. His late-night Truth Social post announced the dismissal of key figures, including retired General Mark Milley. While Trump pushes to reshape the government, critics and even religious leaders urge him to prioritise unity and compassion, especially for immigrants. A report reveals that children were held in secret detention centres during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure as Bangladesh’s prime minister. Babies were reportedly used as leverage during interrogations, with mothers denied basic needs like milk.The commission investigating enforced disappearances uncovered multiple cases, including a pregnant woman beaten in custody.Hasina, now in exile after a student-led revolution, faces arrest for crimes against humanity.Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station produced oxygen and rocket fuel components through artificial photosynthesis. Using semiconductor catalysts, the Shenzhou-19 crew converted carbon dioxide into oxygen and ethylene, a key fuel ingredient. These experiments, crucial for long-term space survival, are part of China’s push for a crewed moon mission by 2030.
Trump expresses scepticism over Gaza ceasefireUS President Donald Trump has expressed scepticism about the Gaza ceasefire deal when asked if he was confident that all three phases of the agreement would be implemented.Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office as he signed executive orders, Trump said the blockaded enclave looked like "a massive demolition site" and that it had to be rebuilt in a different way.Trump signs first executive orders after inaugural paradeUS President Donald Trump has signed a slew of executive orders following the inaugural parade in Capital One arena in Washington.Trump started on Monday by signing the rescission of 78 Biden-era orders.He also signed other orders that included a freeze on new regulations, a hiring freeze on federal workers and the withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement.Israel preparing for large-scale attacks in occupied West BankIsraeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi has instructed the army to prepare for large-scale attacks in the occupied West Bank, a day after a ceasefire deal took effect in Gaza.Alongside enhanced defensive preparations in Gaza, Israeli army must be ready for significant operations in the occupied West Bank in the coming days, Halevi said in a statement.The statement did not specify the locations of these attacks, though activity in recent years has largely concentrated in the northern occupied West Bank.Türkiye-Sweden security meeting to discuss counter-terrorism, defence tiesA meeting of the Türkiye-Sweden Security Mechanism is set to take place in the Turkish capital on Tuesday with the participation of high-level officials from both countries.Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya plus Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard and Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer are expected to take part, diplomatic sources said.This meeting is key for advancing collaboration between the two nations' counter-terrorism efforts.Biden pardons his siblings and their spouses as he vacates White HouseJoe Biden has pardoned his siblings and their spouses on his way out of the White House.The former US president claimed that his family had been "subjected to unrelenting attacks and threats", motivated solely by a desire to hurt him, and called it "the worst kind of partisan politics".The family pardons were the surprise finale in a series of unprecedented presidential actions by the Democrat, who has been known as an institutionalist during his half-century in politics.
Tears of joy and hugs as Palestinians welcome freed detaineesTears of joy have flown across massive crowds of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank town of Beitunia as they welcomed the return of detainees freed from Israeli Ofer prison in the first exchange in the Gaza ceasefire deal.Palestinians climbed on top of the buses transferring the detainees as they chanted and cheered in celebration.The families and relatives were seen embracing their loved ones after waiting for hours in the town.TikTok restores services in US, thanks TrumpTikTok has restored service in the United States after briefly going dark, as a law banning the wildly popular app on national security grounds came into effect.TikTok credited President-elect Donald Trump, who retakes power on Monday, for making the reversal possible — though the outgoing administration of President Joe Biden had earlier said that it would not enforce any ban.The video-sharing app had shut down in the United States late Saturday as a deadline for its Chinese owners ByteDance to sell its US subsidiary to non-Chinese buyers loomed.Israel's Smotrich threatens to topple government if Gaza is not occupiedFar-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has threatened to overthrow the government if it does not occupy Gaza.The extremist minister called a Gaza ceasefire agreement "very serious mistake" and "surrender to Hamas".Smotrich told Army Radio that Israel "must occupy Gaza and create a temporary military government because there is no other way to defeat Hamas".Trump vows to act with 'historic speed and strength' post-inaugurationDonald Trump has told a pre-inauguration rally that he would act with "historic speed and strength" upon becoming US president, one day ahead of his return to the White House.Since the election, "the stock market has surged", and "Bitcoin has shattered one record high after another", Trump told the crowd gathered at the Capital One Arena in Washington.Trump stayed consistent with the framing he often used in his campaign, criticising President Joe Biden's term as a "failed administration" and promising to "end the reign of a failed and corrupt political establishment".Fire-ravaged Southern California braces for strong winds, fire riskSouthern Californians are bracing for gusty winds and a heightened risk of wildfires less than two weeks after the outbreak of deadly blazes that have killed at least 27 people and charred thousands of homes.The National Weather Service issued on Sunday a warning of a "particularly dangerous situation" for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning due to low humidity and damaging Santa Ana winds.Gusts could peak at 113 kph along the coast and 160 kph in the mountains and foothills.
- Gaza ceasefire and hostage release set to begin Gaza ceasefire 'better hold': TrumpFuel tanker truck blast kills scores in Nigeria Swedish troops deployed in Latvia to 'strengthen' NATO presence TikTok goes dark in US, app pulled from stores
- Israel approves Gaza truce deal in key voteIsrael’s government has greenlit a ceasefire and prisoner swap with Hamas in a 24-8 vote after cabinet talks. The deal, seen as a pivotal pause in the Israeli brutal war on Gaza, required PM Netanyahu to rally support from his ministers. TRT World’s Mohammad Al-Kassim reported that most ministers backed the agreement. Netanyahu’s office confirmed the decision after six hours of debate. Syrians protest PKK/YPG in DamascusSyrians gathered at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus after Friday prayers to denounce the PKK/YPG. Protesters chanted slogans against the group’s actions, calling for an end to eight years of violations, including road closures and resource hoarding. Residents reported fears of leaving homes at night due to PKK/YPG control. Over 40 Pakistanis dead in migrant boat disasterMore than 40 Pakistanis drowned after a migrant boat capsized off West Africa’s coast, a key route for those attempting to reach Europe. The tragedy drew grief from President Asif Ali Zardari, who called for tougher measures to stop human trafficking. Spain-based Walking Borders reported 50 deaths, 44 of whom were Pakistanis, as the group embarked on a perilous journey to the Canary Islands. Colombia halts peace talks amid guerrilla violenceColombia has suspended peace talks with the ELN after guerrilla violence near the Venezuela border left 39 dead. President Gustavo Petro accused the group of “war crimes” after it targeted rivals and paramilitaries in fresh clashes. The unrest derailed fragile negotiations and dashed hopes for the ELN to disarm. US Supreme Court backs TikTok ban over security fearsThe US Supreme Court has upheld a law allowing a TikTok ban unless ByteDance, its Chinese parent, sells the app by Sunday. In a unanimous 9-0 decision, the court ruled the measure does not violate free speech, citing national security concerns. Congress had passed the law with bipartisan support, and TikTok’s legal challenge failed to sway the justices.
Netanyahu announces Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas"Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said a deal to pause war in Gaza and return captives from the besieged Palestinian enclave has been reached.The announcement comes a day after Netanyahu's office said there were last minute snags in talks to free captives in return for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Palestinian abductees.Netanyahu said he will convene his security cabinet and then the government to approve the agreement.The conflict, now in its 469th day, has devastated Gaza, with estimates suggesting up to 200,000 deaths.Israel's Ben-Gvir threatens to quit Netanyahu govt over Gaza deal"Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatens to resign if the government approves the Gaza ceasefire deal brokered by the US, Egypt and Qatar. Calling it a ""reckless deal,"" Ben-Gvir claims it undermines Israel’s war achievements by releasing Palestinian fighters and ceding strategic ground.Despite political tensions, Prime Minister Netanyahu retains a parliamentary majority. US officials expect the ceasefire to commence Sunday."At least $10B needed to rebuild Gaza health system: WHO"The World Health Organization estimates that at least $10 billion will be needed over the next 5–7 years to rebuild Gaza's devastated health system.With less than half of Gaza's hospitals functional, the need for immediate and sustained humanitarian aid is critical. World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus welcomed the ceasefire agreement, stating that ""the best medicine is peace,"" but urged its immediate implementation. He stressed the need for safe and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to reach those in need."UK and Ukraine sign '100 year partnership' agreement"During a surprise visit to Kiev, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a landmark ""100 Year Partnership"" agreement.The agreement aims to deepen defence cooperation, address maritime security challenges, and strengthen ties in areas such as trade, energy, and climate change. Zelenskyy described the partnership as a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two nations."Space X Starship test flight explodes after the liftoff"Space X's latest Starship launch ended in disappointment with the spacecraft breaking apart shortly after liftoff. Despite a successful booster landing, the spacecraft experienced an ""unscheduled disassembly,"" losing contact with ground control. The test flight aimed to send the spacecraft on a near-orbital journey around the globe, but the mission was cut short. This was the seventh test flight for the world's most powerful rocket, which is crucial for Space X's plans for future lunar missions and ultimately, Mars exploration.
Hamas, Israel agree to Gaza ceasefire deal"In a breakthrough, Hamas and Israel have agreed to a ceasefire and prisoner exchange after 468 days of Israel's genocidal war on Gaza. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani announced the deal, starting with Hamas releasing 33 Israeli captives for an undisclosed number of Palestinian prisoners. Qatar, Egypt and the US will oversee the implementation. Details of second and third phases will emerge after the first phase concludes."World hails the Gaza ceasefire"The ceasefire in Gaza was hailed by world leaders, including Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, US President Joe Biden, and President-elect Donald Trump, as a step toward peace, humanitarian aid, and the release of prisoners.The UN and EU echoed their support, emphasising the urgent need for relief in Gaza.While Hamas declared the agreement a victory for Palestinian resilience, Egypt stressed the importance of swift aid delivery.Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to American leaders for their support in the process."Gaza, West Bank face deadly Israeli air strikes after truce"Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel continued to carry out air strikes on Palestinian territories in the region.At least 20 Palestinians, including children, were killed in besieged Gaza by Israeli bombardment. Tel Aviv also killed six Palestinians in the occupied West Bank during air strikes on the Jenin camp, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry."UN rights chief calls for lifting sanctions on Syria"During a historic visit to Syria, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk emphasised the need for justice and accountability for the grave human rights violations committed during 14 years of conflict. He called for an end to hostilities, the protection of all Syrians, and the pursuit of transitional justice, including investigating war crimes and addressing the needs of victims. Turk also urged the international community to reconsider sanctions that have exacerbated the suffering of ordinary Syrians."Joe Biden delivers his last speech from the Oval Office"Outgoing US President Joe Biden delivered an emotional farewell address from the Oval Office, marking his final days in office. He wished President-elect Donald Trump success while cautioning against a looming ""oligarchy"" threatening democracy. Despite his controversial legacy, Biden criticised social media giants for enabling misinformation and warned of the risks of concentrated wealth and power."
US, Egypt urge 'flexibility' to achieve Gaza truce"Israel and Hamas are moving closer to a ceasefire in Tel Aviv's four-hundred-sixty-seventh day of a genocidal war in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza.US President Joe Biden and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sisi emphasised the need for ""flexibility"" from all sides during a phone call to solidify a truce between Israel and Hamas-according to a statement from Sisi's office.A spokesperson for the Egyptian president stated that the two leaders reviewed the latest developments in the negotiations and underscored the importance of the concerned parties' commitment to overcoming obstacles and demonstrating the necessary flexibility to reach an agreement.Israel's relentless attacks have resulted in over forty-six-thousand-six-hundred-forty-five-Palestinian deaths and one-hundred-ten-thousand-twelve wounded in indiscriminate attacks since October 2023."Israel prepares to withdraw from Philadelphi Corridor — report"Israel is reportedly preparing for a major shift as its army plans to withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor on the Palestine-Egypt border in Gaza.Public broadcaster KAN has reported intensive meetings within the Southern Command, indicating steps toward a phased pullout in alignment with a ceasefire agreement.A security source has revealed plans to vacate the Palestinian side of the-Rafah crossing shortly after a highly anticipated prisoner swap deal is finalised."US removes Cuba from terror list as 553 prisoners are freed"US President Joe Biden lifts Cuba’s ""state sponsor of terrorism"" label, a move tied to the release of five-hundred-fifty-three Cuban prisoners. A White House official cited no evidence for Cuba’s terror designation, lauding the Catholic Church's role in securing political prisoner releases. Cuba faces decades-long US sanctions, deepened by economic mismanagement and Covid-19. Cuba said it would free hundreds of prisoners held for ""diverse crimes"" shortly after Washington's announcement.Meanwhile, Cuba braces for tighter policies under President-elect Donald Trump’s return next week."South Korean impeached President Yoon arrested over his martial law bid"In a dramatic dawn raid, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol was arrested following his controversial martial law bid. Anti-corruption investigators and police stormed his residence in Seoul after a weeks-long standoff. Yoon, who initially resisted, agreed to cooperate but was taken into custody before delivering his planned speech. In a video message recorded before he was escorted to the headquarters of the anti-corruption agency, Yoon said that the-""rule of law has completely collapsed in this country.""He faces up to 48 hours in detention."US bans smart cars with Chinese, Russian technology"The US has finalised a rule barring Chinese and Russian technology from American cars, citing national security concerns.The rule prohibits the sale of vehicles containing technology components linked to China or Russia, even if the car is US-made.The restrictions, set to take effect in 2027 for software and 2030 for hardware, aim to prevent potential security risks and data breaches.China has condemned these measures as a violation of international trade rules and vowed to take necessary action."
Gaza truce talks see big progress"Breakthroughs in indirect talks between Israel and Hamas may bring a long-awaited Gaza ceasefire. Negotiations in Qatar tackled key sticking points, with a ""concrete"" new proposal now on the table, a source close to the talks revealed. While details are scarce due to the sensitivity of discussions, the progress marks a hopeful step toward ending the conflict.Lebanon taps ICJ judge Nawaf Salam as PM"Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun has chosen ICJ President Nawaf Salam to form a new government. Backed by 84 lawmakers, Salam steps into a critical role amid Lebanon's challenges. Presidency Director General Antoine Choucair confirmed the news, adding that Salam is set to return from abroad on Tuesday to begin the task."100 miners die trapped in South African mine"At least 100 illegal miners have died from suspected starvation and dehydration after being trapped for months in an abandoned gold mine in South Africa, a miners’ advocacy group revealed. Over 500 others remain underground.Rescuers recovered 18 bodies since Friday, while videos retrieved from a cellphone showed dozens more wrapped in plastic. "Los Angeles wildfires to cost over $250 billion"The Los Angeles wildfires are projected to cause staggering losses of $250–$275 billion, AccuWeather reports.“This could become California’s worst wildfire in modern history,” warned meteorologist Jonathan Porter. With damages surpassing the 2020 wildfire season and even Hurricane Helene, the scale of destruction is unprecedented.China eyes selling TikTok US to Elon Musk"China is considering selling TikTok's US operations to Elon Musk to dodge a looming ban, Bloomberg reports. While ByteDance prefers to retain ownership, contingency plans are under debate as the US Supreme Court leans towards upholding the app’s ban by January 19. With time running out, discussions between China and Trump’s incoming administration are intensifying.
Israeli army detains dozens in occupied West Bank raidsIsraeli forces have detained around 70 Palestinians in a series of raids targeting homes in the occupied West Bank.Eyewitnesses said Israeli soldiers stormed several homes in the town of Deir Istiya in Salfit governorate.The official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that Israeli troops have repeatedly raided Deir Istiya in recent days, blocking the town's entrances and exits with barriers.Israel carries out air strikes on eastern Lebanon"The Israeli military has conducted air strikes in eastern Lebanon.Lebanon's official National News Agency highlighted that Israeli forces continued to violate a ceasefire agreement that went into effect on November 27 last year.Reports indicated that Israeli warplanes bombed areas near the town of Jinta, east of Baalbek."14 million Syrians will return home within 2 years: Ahmed al Sharaa"The leader of Syria's new administration, Ahmed al Sharaa, expressed optimism that 14 million displaced Syrians would return to their country within two years following the fall of the Assad regime.Speaking to Dubai-based documentary filmmaker and YouTube content creator Joe HaTTab in a video that aired Sunday, Al Sharaa emphasised that Syrians who were forced to flee their homeland are already returning.He highlighted that the revolution has been completed with the regime’s collapse and it is time to transition from a revolutionary mindset to a state-oriented one."Sudanese army regains control of another town in Al Jazirah state"The Sudanese army has announced that it had regained control of the town of Tambul, marking the second area of eastern Al Jazirah state to be reclaimed in the last 48 hours.The army said in a statement late Sunday that with the support of allied forces and popular resistance, it has taken full control of the town of Tambul.Referring to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, the army said it has ""cleansed the town of the rebel militia after inflicting heavy losses in personnel and equipment""."Turkish UAVs fly high in African markets"Turkish unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have made inroads into Africa, with solutions developed in Türkiye from UAV technologies undertaking new missions abroad.Turkish drone company Zyrone Dynamics, renowned for its expertise in rotary-wing and variable-volume UAVs, has added a significant milestone to its export achievements.The company recently exported its ZD100 and ZD200 rotary-wing UAVs to an African country, where they will play a critical role in missions such as disaster search and rescue operations and the delivery of cargo to vital locations."
- Israel approves plan to withdraw troops from Gaza: reportIsrael is moving forward with plans to withdraw its troops from Gaza, following progress in prisoner exchange talks with Hamas, according to media reports. Haaretz newspaper reported that the military has approved several withdrawal strategies aimed at swiftly pulling soldiers out of the area. One of the options being considered includes using the Netzarim Corridor, which splits Gaza into two, as a potential exit route. Houthis claim another attack on US aircraft carrier in Red SeaThe Houthis in Yemen say they've launched another attack on the USS Harry Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea. Their military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, stated that missiles and drones were used to target the ship in the northern Red Sea. He explained that the attack aimed to push the carrier out of its operational area. Sudan paramilitary leader says 'lost' key Al-Jazirah state capitalThe leader of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, or the RSF, has admitted that his troops have lost control of Wad Madani, the capital of Al-Jazirah state, after an army offensive. In a message to the paramilitaries and the public, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo vowed to retake the city, a key hub in central Sudan. The RSF had held it since December 2023. Meanwhile, the army, which has been fighting the RSF since April, announced on Saturday that it had entered Wad Madani and was clearing out "remnants of the rebels". Ethiopia, Somalia restore full diplomatic relationsEthiopia and Somalia have decided to fully restore their diplomatic ties, a move the two nations announced in a joint statement. The announcement came after a meeting between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, where they discussed ways to strengthen their relationship and address shared priorities. Back in April 2024, Somalia expelled Ethiopia's ambassador and shut down its consulates in Hargeisa, following tensions over the Somaliland port deal. The dispute was eventually resolved with the Ankara Declaration, brokered by Türkiye. Toxic smoke from LA wildfires poses health riskPeople in Los Angeles are being urged to stay indoors as dangerous wildfire smoke spreads across the area. Massive fires burning in and around the city have filled the air with toxic fumes, creating health risks for residents. Anish Mahajan from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health explained in a press conference that wildfire smoke contains a mix of fine particles, gases and water vapours. It's those small particles that can get into your nose and throat, causing sore throats and headaches, Mahajan said, advising caution for everyone—even those who are otherwise healthy.
- Israel kills 17 more Palestinians in overnight strikes in GazaOvernight air strikes by Israel in Gaza have claimed at least 17 Palestinian lives, intensifying the conflict.Strikes in Bureij camp, Shujaiya neighbourhood, and Khan Younis left dozens wounded, according to medical sources.Paramedics recovered bodies amidst ongoing devastation in Nuseirat and Gaza City.Israel's new wave of lethal attacks adds to the staggering toll of over 46,000 Palestinians killed during the 463-day war. Israel, US, UK launch first joint attack on HouthisIsrael, the US and the UK conducted their first joint air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.Coordinated strikes targeted military infrastructure in Sanaa and Hudaida, including a key power station.The joint offensive was in response to Houthi attacks on Israeli and US targets in solidarity with Palestinians.Israeli military confirmed its involvement, stating that the strikes aimed to disrupt Houthi military capabilities. Stampede at Damascus mosque kills four, injures manyA stampede at the historic Umayyad Mosque in Damascus left four dead and 16 wounded, including five children with severe injuries, according to Syrian state news agency SANA.Authorities are investigating the cause, with Governor Maher Marwan pledging accountability and swift action to prevent future incidents in public spaces.The civil defence described the scene as chaotic, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in high-traffic areas. Trump readies shock-and-awe start with sweeping executive ordersIn a private Capitol Hill meeting, US president-elect Donald Trump promised a “shock-and-awe” start to his presidency, with over 100 executive orders targeting border security, deportations and energy policy.Set to roll out on January 20, the sweeping measures include completing the border wall and deporting over a million migrants deemed ineligible.Top adviser Stephen Miller emphasised immediate enforcement, signaling a dramatic pivot.Republican senators brace for an unprecedented surge of executive power, bypassing Congress to reshape key policies. Musk says all human knowledge for AI training already 'exhausted'Elon Musk warns we’ve hit “peak data” for AI.Speaking in a livestream, Musk claimed humanity's knowledge has been nearly exhausted in AI training, pushing tech firms toward "synthetic" data for self-learning models.However he noted that the challenge lies in AI’s tendency for “hallucinations” – producing unreliable outputs.Experts like Andrew Duncan caution against overreliance on synthetic data, citing risks of "model collapse" and diminishing returns.
Real 'progress' made in Gaza truce talks — Biden"United States President Joe Biden said there has been ""real progress"" toward a Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis deepens as the death toll surpasses 46,000 due to Israel's ongoing genocidal war against Palestinians in Gaza since October 7, 2023, with the majority of casualties being women and children and 109,378 others reported wounded."US passes bill targeting ICC sanctions over Netanyahu warrants"The US House of Representatives passed a bill, with 243 votes to 140 in favour, sanctioning the International Criminal Court in response to arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defence minister Yoav Gallant.The bill, dubbed the ""Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act,"" backed by both Republicans and some Democrats, aims to protect US citizens and allies from ICC investigations.The Senate is expected to swiftly pass the legislation, allowing President-elect Donald Trump to sign it into law.The ICC issued the warrants in November 2024 for war crimes committed during Israel's Gaza invasion."Protests in Mozambique turn deadly as opposition leader Mondlane returns"At least three people were killed by police in Mozambique as they gathered to welcome opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, who returned from exile following controversial election results. Mondlane, who claims to have won the election, rejects the official results. His return sparked protests, leading to clashes with police.Nearly 300 people have killed since post-election protests erupted in October. Mondlane called for accountability and justice, but his return could further escalate tensions."Lebanese parliament elects army chief Joseph Aoun as president"Lebanese lawmakers have elected Army Chief Joseph Aoun as the country's new president. Aoun secured 99 out of 128 votes in the second round of voting.The presidency has been vacant since October 2022, creating political instability. It comes amidst international pressure to fill the position, particularly due to an impending deadline for a ceasefire agreement in south Lebanon."Wildfires in California may become the costliest disaster in US history"Wildfires in Los Angeles are on track to become the most expensive disaster in US history, with economic losses expected to approach 50 billion dollars, nearly doubling earlier estimates. Insured losses could exceed 20 billion dollars, with figures rising if fires remain uncontrolled. The death toll has climbed to seven while President Joe Biden called the-fires the worst in California’s history and pledged additional federal support. Early reports indicate the event could rival past catastrophic fires like the 2018 Camp Fire, which saw insured losses of 12.5 billion dollars."
Israel kills nine Palestinians in Gaza air strikes"Israel’s air strikes on Gaza have killed at least nine Palestinians, with several others wounded.Civil defence teams recovered five bodies near Gaza Municipality Park, while four more victims were found following a strike in Deir al-Balah, according to medical sources.A house in western Deir al-Balah was leveled, leaving destruction and casualties as rescue teams search for the missing.Israel's genocidal war in Gaza, now in its four-hundred sixty-first-day, has resulted in over forty-five-thousand-nine-hundred-thirty-six-fatalities and one-hundred-nine-thousand-two-hundred-seventy-four-wounded among Palestinians."Fighting at Chad presidency leaves 19 killed, several injured"Gunfire echoed in Chad's capital N'Djamena as gunmen attacked the presidential complex. At least nineteen-people, including-eighteen attackers have been killed and nine others wounded. Tanks rolled through the streets as civilians fled in panic. The violence comes after the Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi visited the country amid regional instability, including terrorist attacks and Chad's strained ties with France.President Mahamat Idriss Deby is facing challenges as Chad seeks new global alliances amidst its oil wealth and humanitarian struggles."Russia-Ukraine war kills 650 children among 12,300 civilian fatalities"Over twelve-thousand-three-hundred-civilians, including six-hundred-fifty-children, have died in the Ukraine war since twenty twenty-two, says the United Nations.A surge in drone, missile and glide bomb attacks has driven a thirty-percent spike in casualties, with five-hundred-seventy-four civilians killed between September and November twenty-twenty-four.The UN has warned that these actions may constitute to war crimes."Number of 'ghost guns' recovered in US surged 1,600% since 2017"The United States' Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives study reveals one-thousand-six-hundred-percent surge in so-called ghost gun recoveries at crime scenes from twenty-seventeen to twenty-twenty-three.These untraceable firearms, built without serial numbers and bypassing background checks, were linked to over twenty-seven-thousand-crimes, including one-thousand-seven-hundred-homicides. The study underlines the urgent need for stricter gun regulations, as sixty-percent of trafficked firearms end up in the hands of convicted felons. The Biden administration is awaiting a Supreme Court decision on regulations aimed at curbing ghost gun proliferation."Archaeologists uncover Queen Hatshepsut's temple in Egypt"Archaeologists in Egyptian city of Luxor have made significant discoveries, including intact portions of Queen Hatshepsut's valley temple and the tomb of Queen Teti Sheri, grandmother of the first pharaoh of the New Kingdom.The team, led by renowned archaeologist Zahi Hawass, unearthed over 1,500 decorated stone blocks from Hatshepsut's temple, which was intentionally destroyed centuries ago.The findings offer invaluable glimpses into the lives and legacies of these powerful women who shaped ancient Egyptian history."
Israel kills nine Palestinians in Gaza air strikes"Israel’s air strikes on Gaza have killed at least nine Palestinians, with several others wounded.Civil defence teams recovered five bodies near Gaza Municipality Park, while four more victims were found following a strike in Deir al-Balah, according to medical sources.A house in western Deir al-Balah was leveled, leaving destruction and casualties as rescue teams search for the missing.Israel's genocidal war in Gaza, now in its four-hundred sixty-first-day, has resulted in over forty-five-thousand-nine-hundred-thirty-six-fatalities and one-hundred-nine-thousand-two-hundred-seventy-four-wounded among Palestinians."Fighting at Chad presidency leaves 19 killed, several injured"Gunfire echoed in Chad's capital N'Djamena as gunmen attacked the presidential complex. At least nineteen-people, including-eighteen attackers have been killed and nine others wounded. Tanks rolled through the streets as civilians fled in panic. The violence comes after the Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi visited the country amid regional instability, including terrorist attacks and Chad's strained ties with France.President Mahamat Idriss Deby is facing challenges as Chad seeks new global alliances amidst its oil wealth and humanitarian struggles."Russia-Ukraine war kills 650 children among 12,300 civilian fatalities"Over twelve-thousand-three-hundred-civilians, including six-hundred-fifty-children, have died in the Ukraine war since twenty twenty-two, says the United Nations.A surge in drone, missile and glide bomb attacks has driven a thirty-percent spike in casualties, with five-hundred-seventy-four civilians killed between September and November twenty-twenty-four.The UN has warned that these actions may constitute to war crimes."Number of 'ghost guns' recovered in US surged 1,600% since 2017"The United States' Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives study reveals one-thousand-six-hundred-percent surge in so-called ghost gun recoveries at crime scenes from twenty-seventeen to twenty-twenty-three.These untraceable firearms, built without serial numbers and bypassing background checks, were linked to over twenty-seven-thousand-crimes, including one-thousand-seven-hundred-homicides. The study underlines the urgent need for stricter gun regulations, as sixty-percent of trafficked firearms end up in the hands of convicted felons. The Biden administration is awaiting a Supreme Court decision on regulations aimed at curbing ghost gun proliferation."Archaeologists uncover Queen Hatshepsut's temple in Egypt"Archaeologists in Egyptian city of Luxor have made significant discoveries, including intact portions of Queen Hatshepsut's valley temple and the tomb of Queen Teti Sheri, grandmother of the first pharaoh of the New Kingdom.The team, led by renowned archaeologist Zahi Hawass, unearthed over 1,500 decorated stone blocks from Hatshepsut's temple, which was intentionally destroyed centuries ago.The findings offer invaluable glimpses into the lives and legacies of these powerful women who shaped ancient Egyptian history."
Israeli shelter attack kills four children, wounding many others"Israel is continuing its relentless attacks on the Palestinian enclave of Gaza.In southern Gaza's Khan Younis, an Israeli drone strike on a ""safe zone"" killed at least four Palestinian children and wounded ten others, mostly minors, according to medical sources.Witnesses reported that the victims were transported to Nasser Medical Hospital using animal-drawn carts.Another Israeli attack targeted displaced families in the Wijdan Camp."US declares genocide in Sudan but silent on Israel's genocide in Gaza"The United States has declared Sudan's Rapid Support Forces and allied militias guilty of genocide, imposing sanctions on their leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned systematic ethnic killings, mass sexual violence and attacks on fleeing civilians. The war between the Sudanese army and RSF, ongoing since 2023, has devastated the country, leaving millions displaced and half the population facing famine. Meanwhile, criticism mounts as activists draw parallels to US support for Israel's genocide in Gaza, fueling global debates on accountability and justice."France's Macron faces backlash over Sahel comments"President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism after suggesting African nations ""forgot to say thank you"" for France's military efforts against insurgencies in the Sahel. His remarks, delivered to French ambassadors, sparked accusations of neo-colonialism amid strained ties in West Africa. France withdrew troops after coups in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. Once seen as allies, Senegal and Chad now also demand French military departures, marking a stark shift in France's regional presence."Raging wildfire prompts evacuations in Los Angeles"A raging wildfire tore through Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, scorching 1,262 acres and forcing mass evacuations. Fierce winds fueled the flames, which engulfed homes and sent panicked residents fleeing on foot as gridlocked roads stalled escapes. Firefighters battled the inferno with water drops from planes, while bulldozers cleared abandoned cars. Witnesses described harrowing scenes of flames ""this close to the cars."Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion suspect used ChatGPT to plan blast"US authorities have said that Matthew Livelsberger, the suspected driver of the Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside the Trump Hotel on New Year's Day, used the AI chatbot ChatGPT to gather information for the attack. Investigators found evidence that Livelsberger utilised ChatGPT to research explosives and their potential use in the attack. A six-page ""manifesto"" containing grievances and outlining the attack plan was also discovered on his phone. Livelsberger died by suicide before the explosion, which wounded seven other people."
UN 'deeply concerned' over babies freezing to death in Gaza"The United Nations has raised alarms after a one-month-old baby in Gaza froze to death.It is Gaza’s eighth such tragedy in less than three weeks amid Israel’s genocidal war.UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric condemned the preventable deaths and urged for the protection of civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.Over the weekend, 37 UN-led missions faced hurdles, with only 12 completed and 15 denied outright."Strong earthquake kills dozens in Tibet"A powerful earthquake struck the Tibet region of China near the Nepalese border, killing at least fifty-three-people, wounding sixty-two and causing significant damage.The quake, reported at magnitude 7.1 by the US Geological Survey, was felt in Nepal and parts of India. Local authorities are assessing the damage and providing assistance to affected areas."US transfers 11 Yemeni Guantanamo detainees to Oman"The United States has transferred 11 Yemeni detainees from the Guantanamo Bay detention center to Oman, reducing the prison population to 15.The Pentagon stated that all detainees were deemed eligible for transfer following a thorough review process.It marks a significant step towards the US government's goal of closing the infamous US prison in Guantanamo."Canada's Trudeau resigns as Liberal Party leader, prime minister"Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his plan to step down, staying on until the Liberal Party selects a new leader. Trudeau, in power since 2015, cited “internal battles” and a loss of support as reasons for his decision. The party’s leadership race will coincide with Parliament's suspension until March 24, postponed from January 27. Trudeau’s announcement follows a period of political unrest, including the finance minister's abrupt resignation last year."Elon Musk under fire from European leaders for meddling in politics"European leaders are increasingly critical of Elon Musk's political interventions. French President Macron accused Musk of ""directly intervening in elections," while German Chancellor Scholz condemned his ""erratic"" comments.In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer slammed Musk for spreading ""lies and misinformation"" regarding a historical child sex abuse scandal. Musk responded with harsh accusations against Starmer.Musk announced his support for the far-right AfD in Germany and Brexit cheerleader Nigel Farage's Reform party."
Latest Israeli strikes kill at least 12 Palestinians across Gaza"At least 12 Palestinians were killed, and several others wounded, in Israel's latest air strikes on Gaza. A medical source reported that three were killed when a drone targeted a motorcycle near Rafah in southern Gaza. Four more lives were lost in an air strike on the Asdaa police station in Khan Younis, the source added. In Abasan Al-Kabira, east of Khan Younis, two Palestinians were killed, and others injured when civilians were hit by another air strike. Meanwhile, Al Awda Hospital confirmed that a strike on a house in Nuseirat camp, central Gaza, claimed two more lives. In Gaza City's Shujaiya neighbourhood, one Palestinian was killed, and several others were injured in an attack on a civilian gathering. "S Korea anti-corruption agency asks police to execute Yoon's arrest warrant"South Korea's anti-corruption agency has asked the police to take over enforcing the arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. This comes after a standoff with Yoon's presidential security service prevented his detention last week. Officials confirmed the discussions last week, just hours before the one-week warrant for Yoon's detention was set to expire. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials is likely to seek a new warrant to extend the detention window, police said, adding that they are currently reviewing the agency's request. "Winter storm won't delay Trump election certification process — Johnson"House Speaker Mike Johnson says the massive winter storm sweeping across the US won't stop Congress from certifying Donald Trump's presidential election win on Monday.Under the Electoral Count Act, the task must be completed at 1 p.m. on January 6, regardless of conditions, Johnson told Fox News.He added that he has encouraged lawmakers to remain in Washington to ensure full attendance despite the storm. "Trudeau to announce resignation as early as Monday — Canadian media"Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to announce his resignation as Liberal Party leader as early as Monday, according to The Globe and Mail. Three sources told the outlet they expect the announcement before a key national caucus meeting on Wednesday. However, it's unclear if Trudeau plans to step down immediately or stay on as prime minister until a new leader is selected. "Musk does a U-turn on support for UK's anti-immigration party leader"Elon Musk seems to have reversed his stance on Nigel Farage, leader of the anti-immigration Reform UK party, after a public disagreement with the former Brexit figurehead.On Sunday, Musk posted on X that the Reform Party needs a new leader because Farage lacks what it takes.Farage had recently claimed he was in talks with Musk about a significant donation to his party, which had split the right-wing vote and helped Labour win July's general election. But things soured after Musk voiced support for jailed British extremist agitator Tommy Robinson, a move Farage publicly criticised."
) Gaza truce talks resume as Israel kills 30 in fresh strikesTalks for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release are back on, Israel confirmed, with Qatar mediating the high-stakes negotiations. Meanwhile, Gaza's civil defence reports over thirty killed in fresh air strikes, including 11 members of the al Ghoula family—seven of them children. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued "detailed instructions" for the ongoing efforts, according to Israeli officials. ) UN condemn Israel over violations of peace agreementsThe UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon-UNIFIL has condemned Israel for destroying a Lebanese army observation tower and a Blue Line marker.Calling it a "flagrant violation" of UN Resolution 1701, UNIFIL urged restraint to preserve peace. Since October, Israel’s military actions have resulted in over 4,000 Lebanese deaths, with 16,600 wounded. With 383 ceasefire violations reported, tensions remain high as calls grow for adherence to international agreements.) Suspect in Germany market attack was involved in seven prior cases: reportA suspect in the Magdeburg Christmas market attack, Taleb-Al-Abdulmohsen, had prior run-ins with German authorities, media reveal. Linked to seven investigations since 2023, the 50-year-old Saudi-born psychiatrist allegedly issued threats online and targeted a lawyer and staff. Despite a risk assessment, no alert reached his employer. The December 20 attack left five dead and over 200 injured. Detained days later, Abdulmohsen, described as anti-Muslim and far-right-leaning, remains under arrest. ) Serbia records hottest year on recordSerbia experienced its hottest year on record in 2024, with average temperatures exceeding previous records by a significant margin.The country faced a series of heatwaves throughout the summer, contributing to a sharp rise in temperatures. The extreme heat aligns with global trends, as 2024 is set to be the warmest year on record globally, according to the United Nations.Climate scientists attribute this unprecedented heat to human-induced global warming, which has fueled a rise in extreme weather events worldwide.*) Austria's chancellor steps down after failed coalition negotiationsAustria faces a political shakeup as Chancellor Karl Nehammer announces his resignation after coalition talks with the Social Democrats collapsed. Nehammer cited irreconcilable differences in a video message and pledged an "orderly transition." It follows a failed attempt to form a centrist government excluding the far-right Freedom Party or FPO which won 28.8 percent of the vote. Critics warn of potential risks to democracy if the FPO joins forces with Nehammer's conservative People's Party.
) US plans '$8B arms deal' with Israel amid Gaza genocideThe Biden administration has informally notified the US Congress of a proposed 8 billion dollars arms deal with Israel that includes munitions for fighter jets and attack helicopters alongside artillery shells, According to Axios, the US military backing to Israel has totalled more than 200 billion dollars since the creation of the country on the historic Palestinian lands. Washington provides 3.8 billion dollars annually to Israel which has killed over 45,000 Palestinians since October 2023.) US says no plans for army base in Ayn al Arab as Syria FM tours regionThe US military has denied plans to build a new base in Syria's Ayn al Arab near the Turkish border.Videos showing trucks carrying construction materials sparked the rumours, but officials dismissed them. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said, "There are no plans to build a US base in Kobani." Türkiye has repeatedly criticised US cooperation with the YPG, an extension of the PKK terror group.) Mike Johnson re-elected as US House speakerRepublican Mike Johnson was re-elected US House Speaker on the first ballot in a 218-215 vote.The newly-elected 119th US Congress began, with Republicans in full control of both chambers for the first time since 2019.Johnson was unanimously nominated by his party to retain the gavel shortly after the November 5 elections. ) German airports hit by IT outage, long queues at border controlA nationwide IT outage has disrupted border control systems at German airports, causing long queues for passengers from outside the Schengen zone. Federal police manually processed travellers, with no immediate explanation for the issue. Airports like Frankfurt and Berlin reported significant delays for non-Schengen arrivals.*) Chinese BYD tops Tesla in fourth quarter, delivers record EV vehiclesChinese automaker BYD outpaced Tesla in the fourth quarter, delivering about 600,000 EVs compared to Tesla which delivered less than 495,000. For 2024, BYD delivered 1.76 million EVs, narrowly trailing Tesla’s 1.79 million. Both companies reported record-breaking sales for the year.
) UN condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals, demands safe zonesThe UN has strongly condemned Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals, demanding they remain "off limits."UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq says over twelve-thousand-people require urgent medical evacuation, adding that the impact of Israel's evacuation orders have affected over eighty-percent of Gaza.Haq called for media freedoms to be upheld and urged the removal of barriers against journalists.) Suicides rise among Israeli soldiers amid Gaza warTwenty-eight soldiers have committed suicide since the start of the Gaza war in October twenty-twenty-three, surpassing last year’s toll, according to the Israeli military.A total of eight-hundred-ninety-one soldiers have died and five-thousand-five-hundred-sixty-nine injured during the conflict, with three-hundred-sixty-three deaths in twenty-twenty-four alone.In response, the army has bolstered mental health support, including a twenty-four-seven helpline and expanded staff.) 'Security service' blocks South Korea officials from arresting YoonSouth Korean investigators seeking to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol are being confronted by "security service" members at his residence after an earlier stand-off with a military unit.Corruption Investigation Office investigators and police officials entered his residence earlier on Friday in an attempt to execute their warrant to detain Yoon.Investigators began executing a warrant for Yoon arrest over his failed martial law bid, the first time the country has ever sought to arrest a sitting leader.Yoon’s legal team slammed the warrant as "illegal," pledging to fight back. ) US probes Tesla truck explosion outside Trump HotelLas Vegas authorities are investigating an explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck outside the Trump Hotel.Initial findings suggest the driver, suspected to be Matthew Livelsberger, may have died by suicide before the vehicle exploded.Livelsberger served in the Army since two-thousand-six and was deployed to Afghanistan twice and served in other countries like Ukraine and Georgia.Meanwhile, the FBI has stated there is no definitive link between this incident and a separate vehicular attack that occurred in New Orleans on New Year's Day.*) Türkiye to protect all 'aggrieved groups' in SyriaTürkiye remains committed to protecting all "aggrieved groups" in Syria, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said. Addressing a joint press conference in Ankara, Fidan declared Türkiye’s role as a guardian for minorities, including Nusayris, Alevis, Yazidis, and Christians. Underlining Türkiye's support for over three-million Syrian refugees since two-thousand-eleven, Fidan stressed efforts to ensure their safety and promote Syria's future peace. He also called for international backing in Syria’s reconstruction and reaffirmed Türkiye's readiness to aid in securing the country's borders and handling Daesh detainees.
) Israel strikes southern Gaza, kills at least 10 PalestiniansAt least ten Palestinians, including women and children, were killed in an Israeli strike on a tent sheltering displaced families in southern Gaza's Al-Mawasi area, medics report. The attack on the site, designated as a humanitarian zone in Khan Younis, also left fifteen others wounded.) Israel's war depletes Gaza's population by 6 percentGaza's population has dropped six-percent over fifteen-months of war, with over fifty-five-thousand presumed dead and one-hundred-thousand fleeing, reports the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics. Devastation has left twenty-two-percent of residents facing critical food insecurity, including three-thousand-five-hundred children at risk of starvation. Israel stands accused of genocide, as the International Court of Justice demands action to prevent further atrocities.) Death toll rises to 15 in New Orleans truck attackThe death toll in a truck attack in New Orleans has risen to 15, according to officials and thirty-five others were wounded when the vehicle plowed into a crowd during New Year celebrations.The FBI is investigating the attack as terrorism and believes the driver, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, may not have acted alone. Authorities are investigating potential accomplices and have found evidence suggesting possible explosive devices were planted before the attack. Governor Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency and mobilised additional law enforcement.) French troops to leave Ivory Coast in 2025Big changes are underway in Ivory Coast as President Alassane Ouattara announces the withdrawal of French troops after decades of military presence. Starting January twenty-twenty-five, France’s Port Bouet battalion will transition to Ivorian control. It is another step in West Africa’s push for greater autonomy amid rising anti-French sentiment. France, now ousted from over seventy-percent of African countries where it once had troops, faces a major recalibration of its influence across the continent.*) Pakistan and India exchange nuclear facility and prisoner listsIn a step towards transparency, Pakistan and India exchanged lists of nuclear facilities and prisoners, as per longstanding agreements. Pakistan shared details of two-hundred-and-sixty-six Indian prisoners, including two-hundred-and-seventeen fishermen, while India listed four-hundred-and-sixty-two Pakistani detainees, with eighty-one being fishermen. Both nations reiterated calls for swift repatriation of those who have completed sentences. Nuclear site details were exchanged under the 1988 pact, a tradition upheld since 1992.
) Israeli invasion in Gaza claims first civilian casualty of 2025 The New Year dawns tragically for Palestinians as Israeli forces escalate in Gaza.An air strike hit the Abu Dhaher family home in Bureij camp, killing eight-year-old Adam Farhallah—the first Palestinian civilian casualty of twenty-twenty-five.Meanwhile, National Campaign to Retrieve Martyrs' Bodies, a non-governmental organisation said Israel held the bodies of one-hundred-ninety-eight Palestinians in twenty-twenty-four.Separately Israeli media alleges that Hamas has proposed a week-long ceasefire, offering to provide a list of Israeli captives by the fourth day, awaiting Israel’s response on extending peace or resuming conflict.) South Korea warns against obstructing Yoon Suk-yeol's arrestSouth Korean authorities have warned that anyone obstructing the arrest of impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol could face prosecution. Supporters gathered outside his Seoul residence as officials pledged to enforce the arrest warrant by January-six.Yoon, stripped of his duties and facing insurrection charges, could face life imprisonment or the death penalty.His legal team has challenged the warrant, calling it “illegal.”) Europe's Russian gas era ends as Ukraine transit stopsRussian gas supplies to Europe through Ukraine ceased on New Year's Day as a five-year transit deal expired.It marks the end of a decades-long era of Russian dominance in the European gas market.The move comes as Europe has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian energy following the war in Ukraine.While the immediate market impact may be limited, the loss of this crucial supply route has significant geopolitical implications for both Russia and Europe.The halt in gas flows will have a significant impact on countries like Moldova, which relied on this pipeline.) Thousands in Bangladesh call for prosecution of ousted PM HasinaThousands rallied at the iconic Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, demanding justice for victims of Bangladesh’s July uprising.The "March for Unity," led by students, called for ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s prosecution and a ban on her Awami League party.Hasina fled to India on August-five amid escalating violence, leaving behind a fractured nation.Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus's interim government now seeks international support for justice, while Hasina dismisses charges as a “political witch hunt.”*) US military court rules 9/11 plea deals can proceedA US military appeals court upheld plea deals for 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and two accomplices.Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had tried to invalidate the agreements, but a judge ruled he acted too late.The deals could spare the trio the death penalty in exchange for guilty pleas.Meanwhile, the Pentagon repatriated a Guantanamo detainee to Tunisia, marking another chapter in the detention facility’s controversial history, as 26 inmates remain.
) Israel's Gaza invasion amounts to ethnic cleansing — reportIsrael's invasion in northern Gaza, including the destruction of hospitals, amounts to "ethnic cleansing," says the Tel Aviv-based media outlet-Haaretz.In its editorial article, the paper criticised the Israeli army's tactics as an effort to depopulate the area, violating the Fourth Geneva Convention's wartime hospital protections and forcing displaced Palestinians south for medical care.) UN official urges global medical professionals to boycott IsraelFrancesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on Palestine, is urging global medical professionals to cut ties with Israel, condemning the destruction of Gaza's healthcare system.Albanese also called for the release of detained Palestinian doctor Hussam Abu Safiya, amplifying the Free-Doctor-Hussan-Abu-Safiya-campaign.) Court issues arrest warrant for South Korea's Yoon Suk-yeolA South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for suspended President Yoon Suk-yeol over his brief and contentious bid to impose martial law.The Seoul Western District Court approved the warrant, requested by the Joint Investigation Headquarters, marking the nation’s first-ever arrest warrant for an incumbent leader.Yoon now faces criminal investigation for possible insurrection charges.) Russia and Ukraine swap 300 prisoners of warRussia and Ukraine have exchanged three-hundred prisoners of war, according to the Russian Defence Ministry.One-hundred-fifty-Russian servicemen have been returned and are receiving medical and psychological support in Belarus.The exchange, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates-saw the return of One-hundred-fifty-Ukrainian personnel as well.While Moscow has announced the exchange, Ukrainian authorities have yet to confirm the news.*) Syria appoints first female to hold keys to the moneySyria's interim government has appointed the first female governor of the central bank in over 70 years.Maysaa Sabrine steps into the role after Bashar Assad's December 8 ousting, replacing Mohammed Issam Hazime.Since then, the bank has taken steps to liberalise an economy that was heavily controlled by the state, including cancelling the need for pre-approvals for imports and exports and tight controls on the use of foreign currency.Despite holding 26 tonnes of gold, foreign reserves have plunged to two-hundred-million dollars, a far cry from pre-war levels of eighteen-billion-dollars—all under the shadow of US sanctions.
) Israel detains Palestinians in critical health condition in Gaza The Health Ministry in Gaza says Israeli forces detained four Palestinian patients who were being transferred for medical care. They were on their way from the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza to al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, a transfer organised by the World Health Organization. Out of the ten patients being transported, four were detained, and, according to the ministry, one of them is in critical condition.) South Korean investigators seek arrest warrant for Yoon Suk-yeol South Korea’s investigation unit is taking a historic step, seeking an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk-yeol.The president, who’s currently suspended, is under scrutiny for declaring martial law earlier this month — a move investigators believe might qualify as insurrection.Officials say Yoon has ignored repeated requests for questioning from both the police and the anti-corruption office. This is the first time South Korea has seen such a request for a sitting president.) Azerbaijan leader says plane shot from Russia, seeks compensationAzerbaijan is demanding answers — and compensation — from Russia after one of its passenger planes was reportedly hit by ground fire and disrupted by electronic warfare. President Ilham Aliyev spoke out about the incident, confirming that the Azerbaijan Airlines plane was damaged near Grozny, on Russian territory, and narrowly avoided disaster. He said Azerbaijan expects Russia to acknowledge what happened, hold those responsible accountable, and pay damages.) Former US president Jimmy Carter dies at 100Former US President Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.Carter served as the 39th president from 1977 to 1981, defeating Gerald Ford in the 1976 election. But his time in office was cut short when he lost to Ronald Reagan in a landslide four years later.After leaving the White House, Carter lived longer than any other former US president, dedicating much of his life to humanitarian work.*) Algeria demands France to admit its colonial crimesAlgerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has called on France to confront its colonial history.Speaking to parliament, Tebboune reflected on the country’sstruggles under French rule from 1830 to 1962, emphasising that Algeria seeks no monetary compensation — just recognition.“We are pursuing the dignity of our ancestors,” he said, highlighting this as a core part of his first presidential term’s achievements and his vision for the future.
- Israeli attack on Gaza's Kamal Adwan hospital leaves it deserted — WHOThe World Health Organization has confirmed that Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza is now empty after an Israeli military raid on Friday, which has forced the last major health facility in the area out of service.Expressing its outrage, the WHO stated, "Hospitals have once again become battlegrounds," condemning the attack as part of a systematic dismantling of Gaza's health system.The organisation warned that the 75,000 Palestinians remaining in northern Gaza face severe risks after over 80 days of siege, with critical healthcare no longer accessible.Dozens dead as plane bursts into flames following crash in South KoreaA Jeju Air plane from Bangkok to South Korea crashed upon landing at Muan airport, killing at least 120 people, the National Fire Agency said.Two survivors have been pulled from the wreckage as rescue efforts continue, according to the national fire agency.Footage broadcast by MBC showed the plane engulfed in flames shortly after landing, with smoke streaming from its engines. Officials believe a landing gear failure, possibly caused by a bird strike, may have led to the crash. Over 112,000 missing Syrians probably killed in Assad prisons: rights groupMore than 112,000 Syrians forcibly disappeared under the Baath regime remain unaccounted for, with evidence pointing to widespread killings in detention, the Syrian Network for Human Rights reported.Following the collapse of the Baath regime on December 8, the scale of torture and extrajudicial executions in Syrian prisons has come to light.The group has documented about 136,000 cases of detention or forced disappearance during the regime's rule and reports that 24,200 prisoners have been released from detention facilities since its fall. Over 21 killed in Sudan shelter attack by paramilitary forcesAt least 21 civilians were killed and 17 injured in a Rapid Support Forces drone strike on a shelter for displaced people in El Fasher, North Darfur, activists reported.The El Fasher Coordination of Resistance Committees said the attack targeted the Qouz Beina school, which housed many displaced individuals.Separately, the General Coordination of Darfur Displaced People and Refugees reported heavy artillery bombardment by the RSF on the Abu Shouk displacement camp in El Fasher, resulting in additional casualties. Putin apologises to Aliyev over Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash tragedyRussian President Vladimir Putin has apologised to Azerbaijan's leader for a "tragic incident" after an Azerbaijani airliner crashed in Kazakhstan, killing 38 people.The Kremlin said that air defence systems were active near Grozny during a Ukrainian drone strike on Wednesday but did not confirm whether one caused the crash.On Friday, a US official and an Azerbaijani minister made separate statements blaming the crash on an external weapon.
- Israeli attack on Kamal Adwan Hospital put 'last major health facility' in northern Gaza out of service: WHOThe World Health Organization (WHO) has said that the Israeli attack on the Kamal Adwan Hospital put "the last major health facility" in northern besieged Gaza out of service, calling an end to "this horror."Initial reports indicate that some key departments were severely burned and destroyed during the attack. At the same time, 60 health workers and 25 patients are in critical condition, including those on ventilators. Hamas denies Israeli claims it was present in Gaza hospitalMeanwhile, the Palestinian resistance group, Hamas, has denied Israeli claims about the presence of its members inside the hospital that was attacked by the Israeli army in the northern besieged Gaza.The group said the Israeli claims aim to justify the heinous crime committed by the occupation army by evacuating and burning all sections of the hospital as part of its plan of genocide and forced displacement. Israel reportedly contacted Assad through WhatsApp in recent yearsIsrael has reportedly engaged in secret communications with the ousted Bashar al Assad's regime in recent years using the messaging app WhatsApp, according to a report. The report said that Israel conducted covert operations to establish contact with al Assad and his inner circle, sending messages through Israeli intelligence agents posing as "Musa" on WhatsApp.The messages allegedly reached high-ranking Syrian regime officials in Damascus.One operation reportedly sought to negotiate a secret deal where Assad would halt the transfer of weapons to Lebanon in exchange for lifting international sanctions against his regime. UN Security Council green-lights mandate for new Somalia missionThe UN Security Council has adopted a draft resolution to establish the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).The 15-member Council adopted the UK-led draft resolution with 14 votes in favour, and the US abstaining.The AUSSOM will replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), whose mandate ends on December 31. Trump urges Supreme Court to pause TikTok banUS President-elect Donald Trump has urged the US Supreme Court to pause a federal TikTok law that would ban the popular social media app or force its sale. The Republican incoming president argued that he should have time after taking office to pursue a "political resolution" to the issue.Trump said that this case presents an unprecedented, novel, and difficult tension between free-speech rights on one side and foreign policy and national security concerns on the other.
Israel kills 50 Palestinians in Gaza’s Kamal Adwan HospitalIsrael has killed nearly 50 Palestinians in an overnight air strike on a building opposite the headquarters of Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern besieged Gaza, including three medical staff and workers.Their bodies were stuck under the rubble of a building opposite Kamal Adwan Hospital in the Beit Lahia Project area after Israeli warplanes bombed it.Medical staff and workers were in the targeted building where they stayed with their families.Three Palestinian babies freeze to death in Gaza The chief paediatric doctor at a southern Gaza hospital has said that three babies had died of "severe temperature drop" this week, as the war-ravaged Palestinian territory grapples with winter.In the most recent case, in Khan Younis city a three-week-old girl was brought to the emergency room with a severe temperature drop, which led to her death.The head of the hospital's paediatric services also said that a three-day-old baby and another baby, less than a month old, both died after a severe temperature drop.UN calls for peaceful resolution to ongoing violence in MozambiqueUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern about the unrest in Mozambique, urging a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.He urged all political leaders and relevant national stakeholders to defuse tensions, including through meaningful dialogue and legal redress, refrain from the use of violence, and redouble efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in a constructive manner, which is essential to the collective future of Mozambicans.Russian missile brought down Azerbaijan Airlines plane: officialsSenior Azerbaijani officials have confirmed the validity of an earlier media report suggesting that an Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash near the Kazakh city of Aktau was caused by a Russian missile system.A claim dismissed by Russia.This came after Azerbaijani media, citing government sources, reported that the preliminary results of the investigation into the incident determined that the plane was attacked by a Pantsir missile system as it approached the city of Grozny.According to the report, the aircraft’s communication system was completely paralysed due to the use of Russian electronic warfare systems, which resulted in the plane disappearing from radars while in Russian airspace.Top Canadian officials to meet with Trump team on tariffsKey members of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet have travelled to Florida for talks with representatives of USPresident-elect Donald Trump as Ottawa works to avert a potentially devastating trade war.Newly appointed Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc and Foreign Minister Melanie Joly flew to Palm Beach, Florida to meet with officials from the incoming Trump administration.The meetings set for Friday will focus on Canada's efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking and irregular migration.
) Israel kills at least 10 Palestinians in Gaza strikesIsraeli air strikes in Gaza have killed at least 10 people and injured others, according to medical sources. A strike on a house in Gaza City's Zeitoun neighbourhood left five dead and 20 wounded, with fears the death toll could rise as rescue teams work to free those trapped under rubble.In a separate incident, five journalists were killed when their vehicle was struck near al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat, central Gaza, health authorities said. ) Israel's new conditions delay Gaza ceasefire agreement: HamasHamas announced Israel has introduced new conditions delaying progress toward a Gaza ceasefire deal. The Palestinian resistance group cited issues related to withdrawal, ceasefire terms, prisoner exchanges, and the return of displaced people as obstacles to reaching an agreement.Despite the setbacks, Hamas stated that negotiations, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, remain serious and that the group is showing flexibility to move the process forward.) Dozens dead, hundreds escaped in Maputo prison riot: Mozambique policeA prison riot in Mozambique's capital, Maputo, has left 33 people dead and 15 injured, according to Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael. The incident led to the escape of 1,534 inmates, though 150 have since been recaptured.The riot occurred amid growing unrest following Monday's Constitutional Court ruling confirming Daniel Chapo of the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) as the winner of the disputed October 9 elections.) 'Provocations' by ousted regime led to protests in Syria – officialsProtests in Syria erupted after claims of damage to a religious shrine in Aleppo, but the interim government attributed the unrest to "provocations" by elements of the deposed Bashar al Assad regime.Videos on social media circulated alleging harm to the shrine of religious figure Abu Abdullah Hasibi. However, the Interior Ministry stated the footage was "old" and circulated by "unknown groups from the period when Aleppo was liberated."The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding religious sites, accusing those behind the videos of attempting to "sow discord" during a sensitive period for the country.*) Erdogan extends Christmas greetings, emphasises Türkiye’s inclusive valuesTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended warm Christmas wishes to Christians, expressing hopes for peace, happiness, and well-being."On the occasion of Christmas, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our citizens who follow the Christian faith," Erdogan said.He also underscored Türkiye’s long-standing tradition of inclusivity, affirming that no distinctions are made based on origin, race, language, religion, or sect.
Israel's Netanyahu announces return of negotiation team on Hamas prisoner talksIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that top negotiators have returned from Qatar for internal consultations on a potential prisoner exchange with Hamas.It follows a week of intense talks involving Mossad and military officials.Observers view Netanyahu's announcement as part of a pattern of delays in negotiations.Israel is believed to hold more than 10,300 Palestinian prisoners, while approximately 100 Israeli captives are in Gaza. Famine in war-torn Sudan spreading: Global hunger monitorThe UN-backed Famine Review Committee of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warns that famine continues to grip Sudan, spreading to five new regions and putting another five at risk by May.Over 24.6 million Sudanese now face severe hunger, as warring factions disrupt critical aid.The report was published despite the Sudanese government’s continued disruption of the IPC’s process for analysing food shortages. On Monday, the government announced it was suspending its participation in the global hunger-monitoring system, saying the IPC issues “unreliable reports that undermine Sudan’s sovereignty and dignity”.Panamanians protest outside US embassy over Trump's Canal reclaim threatPanama protesters set fire to a picture of US President-elect Donald Trump after his call to reclaim control of the Panama Canal.Chanting "public enemy of Panama," demonstrators rallied outside the US embassy.Leaders affirmed the canal's sovereignty, rebuking Trump’s remarks about unfair fees and Chinese influence. “The canal is Panamanian, non-negotiable,” officials declared.Post-election violence in Mozambique kills at least 21Mozambique is reeling from deadly unrest after its top court upheld Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo as president, sparking violent protests. At least 21 people, including two police officers, have died, and 236 violent acts were recorded in 24 hours.Protesters torched vehicles, attacked police units, and freed inmates, leaving the nation on edge amid escalating tensions.NASA's Parker Solar Probe makes history with sun flyby at 930°cNASA's Parker Solar Probe has made history by flying closer to the Sun than any spacecraft before.The probe successfully navigated scorching temperaturesexceeding nine-hundred-and-thirty-degrees-Celsius while flying within 3.8 million miles of the solar surface, collecting valuable scientific data.It is the first of three record-breaking flybys, with the mission aiming to unravel key solar mysteries.
Gaza most dangerous place for aid delivery, says UNThe UN names Gaza the world’s most perilous zone for aid delivery, as Tom Fletcher warns of a spiralling crisis."In a record-breaking deadly year for humanitarians, Gaza tops the danger list," says the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator's chief.Israel's-genocide-in-Gaza, now-in-its-four-hundred-and-forty-fifth-day, has killed-at-least-forty-five-thousand-three-hundred-and-seventeen-Palestinians and-wounded-one-hundred-seven-thousand-seven-hundred-and-thirteen-others.Israel admits to killing Hamas' Haniyeh for first timeIsrael's Defence Minister Israel Katz has revealed the assassination of ex-Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran this July.Katz vowed to target Yemen's Houthi leadership with similar intensity, citing Israel’s prior strikes on key figures in Gaza and Lebanon.The statement marks Israel's first public admission of Haniyeh's killing, amid escalating tensions.Mangione pleads not guilty to US CEO murder caseLuigi Mangione, accused of murdering a UnitedHealthcare executive, pleaded "not guilty" to state charges, including "terrorist" murder.The courtroom was packed as Mangione, handcuffed and shackled, entered. His lawyer argued that the intense media scrutiny and public support for Mangione could make a fair trial impossible.Protesters outside the courthouse expressed support for Mangione and anger at the healthcare system.Mangione faces life in prison if convicted. His next court appearance is set for February 21st.Greenland rebuffs Trump's offer to buy islandGreenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede firmly declared, "We are not for sale," in response to US President-elect Trump’s renewed interest in the Arctic island.Denmark’s opposition calls for clear resistance, while Greenland's strategic value and rich resources remain a global focus.Trump's prior bid was dismissed as "absurd," reigniting geopolitical tensions.Japan's Honda and Nissan announce merger talksJapanese auto giants Honda and Nissan announced a merger plan, aiming to create the world's third-largest automaker.The decision comes as the industry undergoes a major shift towards electric vehicles.The proposed merger would see the companies form a joint holding company, with Honda initially leading the management.However, the success of this merger hinges on the ability of both companies to navigate market challenges and effectively integrate their operations.
UNRWA chief says Israel has broken all rules of war in GazaThe UN's Philippe Lazzarini has condemned Israel's invasion of Gaza, stating that "all rules of war have been broken."The 14-month Israel's Gaza war sees escalating civilian casualties, with schools and hospitals targeted, he said.Urging a long-overdue ceasefire, Lazzarini calls for immediate action to safeguard civilians.He warned that the "world must not become numb."Israel targets homes in southern Lebanon, violating ceasefireIn a sharp escalation, the Israeli military has demolished homes in southern Lebanon, defying the November 27 ceasefire.With 287 reported violations, the toll stands at 31 dead and 37 injured, official data shows.Strikes hit Kfarkela in Nabatieh and Hanin in Bint Jbeil, fueling regional tensions, Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) has reported.Putin threatens 'destruction' on Ukraine after Kazan drone attackRussian President Vladimir Putin has vowed "massive destruction" against Ukraine after a drone strike hit a high-rise in Kazan, over 1,000 kilometres from the frontier.The escalating aerial attacks deepen tensions in the nearly three-year conflict.While Ukraine remains silent on the attack, Putin warns retaliation will bring "regret" to those targeting Russia.Putin has previously threatened to target the centre of Kiev with a hypersonic ballistic missile in response to Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory.Myanmar conflict forces more Rohingya to flee to BangladeshIn the last two months, 60,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmar's conflict-hit Rakhine state to Bangladesh, despite tightened border measures, according to an official.Bangladesh, already hosting 1.2 million refugees, urges international collaboration to stem the crisis.Officials highlight corruption at border crossings and stress Myanmar’s need to resolve internal issues through dialogue. Regional talks continue, with no immediate resolution in sight.Google faces antitrust action in JapanJapan's competition watchdog is poised to find Google guilty of antitrust violations, according to Nikkei Asia.The Japan Fair Trade Commission is expected to issue a cease and desist order, following investigations into Google's search services. It comes amid growing global scrutiny of Google's dominance, with similar actions taken in Europe and the US.The US Department of Justice recently argued that Google should divest its Chrome browser to break its search monopoly.
) Israel bombs Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern GazaThe Israeli army launched a heavy bombardment on Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, causing extensive damage, WAFA news agency reported.Medical sources said that the hospital faced intense shelling, including bombs, artillery, and sniper fire, targeting the facility indiscriminately.The assault severely damaged critical infrastructure, including power generators and various hospital departments, further straining Gaza’s already overwhelmed healthcare system.) Pope Francis slams Israel's 'cruelty' after Gaza air strikePope Francis has renewed his condemnation of Israeli air strikes on Gaza, calling the violence "cruelty" and saying, "This is not war; it touches the heart."The comments follow Israeli air strikes on Friday that killed at least 25 Palestinians and come a day after an Israeli minister criticised the pontiff for suggesting a global inquiry into whether the violence constitutes genocide.Francis addressed the issue during his annual Christmas meeting with Vatican cardinals, highlighting the plight of children in Gaza as a pressing humanitarian concern.) Trump threatens to demand control of Panama CanalUS President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to demand the return of control over the Panama Canal to Washington, criticising "unfair fees" imposed on American ships using the vital waterway.Trump also warned of China's increasing influence near the canal, citing its strategic importance for US trade between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans."Our Navy and Commerce have been treated unfairly. The fees are ridiculous," Trump wrote on Truth Social, vowing to end what he called a "rip-off" of the US.) Pakistan rejects US claims on ballistic missile programme as 'baseless'Pakistan has dismissed claims by a senior US official about its ballistic missile programme, calling them baseless and harmful to bilateral relations.Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch described the allegations as "unfounded, devoid of rationality and sense of history."The remarks came in response to US Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer's statement that Pakistan was developing a long-range missile capable of striking targets beyond South Asia, posing an "emerging threat" to the United States.*) Syrian interim government appoints new foreign ministerThe Syrian Interim Government has appointed Asaad Hassan al Shaibani as its new foreign minister, the ruling General Command announced.Al Shaibani previously led Political Affairs for Idlib’s civilian administration, where he managed diplomatic relations with foreign governments and institutions.He also oversaw coordination efforts with UN agencies and international aid organisations during his tenure.
) Israeli air strike levels Gaza home, killing 10, mostly childrenAt least 10 Palestinians, including seven children, were killed and another eight wounded in an Israeli air strike on a home in northern Gaza as Tel Aviv's genocidal war on the besieged coastal enclave continues unabated.The Palestinian Civil Defense said in a statement that seven of the 10 victims killed in the Israeli attack on evening were children.A medical source in the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City said that the bodies of 10 people and eight others wounded were brought to the hospital after the Israeli airstrike on the home in the Jabalia Nazla neighbourhood.) Israeli snipers 'authorised' to shoot civilians in Gaza — reportAccording to a media report, Israeli soldiers have revealed that the army killed Palestinian civilians who entered previously targeted buildings in Gaza, The Haaretz newspaper in Israel said the army "does not routinely update its list of targets in Gaza, nor does it indicate to forces on the ground which structures are no longer being used" by fighters."As a result, anyone – including noncombatants – who enters such a building risks being attacked," it said.A discharged officer from the 252nd Division said snipers were authorised to consider civilians entering specific areas as fighters and that they were killing civilians there who are then counted as ‘terrorists’.) Car rams German Christmas market in suspected attack, killing twoA car has ploughed into a busy outdoor Christmas market in the eastern German city of Magdeburg, killing two people and wounding 50 in what authorities say was a suspected attack.The car driver was arrested. Regional government spokesperson Matthias Schuppe and city spokesperson Michael Reif said they suspected it was deliberate.Reif stated there were "numerous injured," though he did not provide an exact number. ) US House approves bill to avert looming government shutdownThe US House of Representatives has voted to avert a government shutdown with just hours to spare, with Democrats joining Republicans to advance a funding bill keeping the lights on through mid-March.Lawmakers sent a package to the Senate that would keep federal agencies running through mid-March.Although the House is run by the Republicans, who introduced the bill, 34 of the party's backbenchers voted against it, while almost every Democrat was a yes.*) Ukrainian missile attack kills six in Russia's KurskSix people, including one child, were killed in a Ukrainian missile attack on the town of Rylsk in Russia's Kursk region.Ten wounded people, including a 13-year-old, were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. Authorities said that those responsible for the attack would receive "well-deserved retribution".
) 'Nowhere is safe, no one is spared' in Gaza — MSF reportA new report by Doctors Without Borders, titled "Gaza: Life in a Death Trap," has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to save lives and ensure the flow of humanitarian aid.The organisation has also demanded an end to Israel's targeted and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and called on its allies to act swiftly to protect Palestinian lives and uphold international law.Highlighting the devastating impact of repeated Israeli military attacks on Palestinian civilians over the past 14 months, MSF has said people in Gaza are struggling to survive apocalyptic conditions, but nowhere is safe, no one is spared, and there is no exit from this shattered enclave.) Israeli strikes on Gaza shelters kill at least 20 PalestiniansAt least 20 Palestinians have been killed and over 30 others wounded in Israeli air strikes on two schools sheltering displaced people and a house in Gaza, yesterday evening.Most of the victims were women and children in the attack that targeted the Dar al-Arqam and Shaaban al-Rayes schools and a house in the Tuffah neighbourhood.The attack has caused massive destruction in the two schools and nearby residential buildings.Israel has systematically targeted civilian facilities, including schools, hospitals, and places of worship, in its ongoing offensive on Gaza.) Türkiye urges swift, decisive action to tackle Sudan crisis at UN meetingTürkiye's permanent representative to the UN has urged the international community to take swift action to address the escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis in Sudan.Speaking at the Security Council Ahmet Yildiz highlighted the dire situation in Sudan, where "over 11 million people are displaced and hundreds of thousands have lost their lives."The conflict has also led to the destruction of vital infrastructure, including health facilities.Türkiye reiterated its commitment to Sudan's "unity, territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence from outside interference.") Pakistan developing missiles that could hit US — White House officialA senior White House official has claimed that Pakistan is developing long-range ballistic missile capabilities that eventually could allow it to strike targets outside of South Asia, including in the United States.In his stunning revelation about the one time close US partner, Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer claimed Islamabad's conduct raised "real questions" about the aims of its ballistic missile programme.Finer told the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace audience that candidly, it's hard for us to see Pakistan's actions as anything other than an emerging threat to the United States.*) UNGA seeks ICJ opinion on Israel's obligations to aid PalestiniansThe UN General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a resolution asking the International Court of Justice to assess Israel's obligations to assist Palestinians, amid accusations the Israeli government systematically hinders Gaza aid.The UN's full membership voted to request an ICJ advisory opinion, which, though not binding, can heighten pressure on countries.Norway brought the resolution seeking an advisory opinion from the UN's top court, which was co-sponsored by Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, among others. It won backing from 137 countries, 12 of which objected, and 22 abstained.
) Gaza mediators intensify ceasefire efforts as Israel continues to kill Palestinians The United States and Arab mediators are working to finalise an agreement between Israel and Hamas to halt the 14-month-old war on Gaza.A Palestinian official close to the negotiations said mediators have narrowed gaps on most terms of the proposed deal.Sources in Cairo indicated that an agreement, including a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, could be finalised in the coming days.) US has no Palestine policy, follows Israel's lead — former officialA former senior State Department official accused the US of lacking a policy on Palestine, adding that its actions are largely based on Israeli preferences.Mike Casey, who resigned as deputy political counsellor in Gaza in July, voiced criticisms in an interview with The Guardian newspaper."We don't have a policy on Palestine. We just do what the Israelis want us to do," he said.) Israel strikes power plants, port, oil facility in YemenIsrael has carried out air strikes on power plants, a port, and an oil facility in Yemen, escalating tensions with Houthi fighters, according to media reports.Houthi-aligned Al-Masirah TV reported that the strikes targeted two power plants in the capital Sanaa, damaged an oil facility, and hit the port of Hodeidah.“The enemy launched four aggressive raids targeting the port and two raids on the oil facility,” the channel stated, as quoted by Al Jazeera.) Türkiye vows continued support for Lebanon, SyriaTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated Türkiye’s support for Lebanon’s “unity and peace,” urging the international community to pressure Israel to comply with last month’s ceasefire agreement with Lebanon.Speaking alongside Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Erdogan condemned efforts to destabilise Lebanon and called for Israel to compensate for damages caused during recent escalations, stressing Lebanon’s security as vital for regional stability.Erdogan also emphasised the shared commitment of Türkiye and Lebanon to aiding Syria’s recovery, urging all stakeholders to contribute to ensuring stability in the war-torn nation.*) US Fed cuts key rate, remains cautious over economic outlook next yearThe US Federal Reserve has reduced its benchmark policy rate by 0.25 points to a range of 4.25–4.50 percent, citing inflation concerns and uncertainty over President-elect Donald Trump's economic agenda.Announcing the decision, the Fed indicated a slower pace of rate cuts ahead, forecasting just two quarter-point reductions in 2025, down from an earlier projection of four.Policymakers also raised their inflation outlook for 2024 from 2.1 percent to 2.5 percent, reflecting heightened caution about the economic landscape.
Israeli strikes continue to pound Gaza, kill 8 Palestinians.Hamas calls Gaza ceasefire talks 'positive'.Türkiye condemns Israel's Syria actions.Ukraine kills Russia's chemical weapons chief; Moscow vows revenge.Russian bill could remove Taliban from 'terror' list.
) Türkiye holds the key for Syria's future: TrumpUS President-elect Donald Trump has expressed uncertainty about post-Assad Syria but emphasised that Türkiye will “hold the key” to the nation.Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump refrained from commenting directly on the withdrawal of US troops from northeastern Syria, but praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Trump also condemned ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad as a "butcher" for his actions against children and called Türkiye a "major force" in the region.) Israel committing genocide in Gaza, German rights group's analysis findsA Berlin-based human rights group, the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights, has said Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.In a statement, the group said its independent research and analysis of Israel’s actions in Gaza led to a "legally sound argument" that genocide is taking place.The group highlighted that numerous reports, commentaries, and judgments support this conclusion, further underscoring the severity of the situation.) Gaza truce talks 'productive', 'small differences' remain — USThe US has described recent talks on a potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Hamas as "productive," while acknowledging that a few key differences remain.State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a press briefing that negotiations have progressed in recent days but added "a very small number of differences" still need to be resolved."We have continued to try to work with the other mediators to narrow the differences," Miller stated, underscoring ongoing efforts to reach an agreement.) More than 12 mass graves discovered in Syria's DaraaMore than 12 mass graves have been discovered in Syria's Daraa Governorate, containing remains believed to be of civilians killed by the regime of ousted leader Bashar al Assad.The graves were uncovered following the recent collapse of the Baath regime earlier this month, as search and survey operations continue across the country.Efforts to locate and document mass graves are ongoing as Syria begins to confront the scale of atrocities committed under Assad's rule.*) Mystery drones over 8 US states spark fear and calls for actionMysterious drones spotted across at least eight US states are sparking unease and national debate, with sightings reported near critical sites, including an Air Force base.At a press conference in Mar-a-Lago, President-elect Donald Trump claimed, "Something strange is going on" with the East Coast drones and accused the government of withholding information.The buzzing crafts have been seen from Massachusetts to Ohio, leaving communities unsettled and prompting lawmakers to demand urgent action.
) Israel kills over 110 Palestinians in one dayThe Israeli army continues to brutally target displaced people, civilians, municipal teams and others.In just 24 hours, the Israeli army has killed more than 110 people, Palestinian media office in Gaza says. One of the deadliest Israeli attacks on a school-turned-shelter in the northern town of Beit Hanoon left at least 43 people dead.More than 213 shelters have been targeted in Israeli attacks since the start of its genocide last year and at least 94 civil defence personnel also lost their lives in Israeli bombardment.The media office also said the Israeli army has carried out successive massacres against medical teams and hospitals in recent days, killing several doctors and staff.) UN envoy meets HTS leader to discuss Syria's futureThe United Nations Special Envoy for Syria has met with the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Ahmad al Sharaa, to discuss recent developments in Syria.According to information from Syrian interim government sources, Geir Pedersen visited Damascus for the first time since the fall of the Bashar al Assad regime to meet with Sharaa.During the meeting, Sharaa emphasised the need to update and align the UN Security Council Resolution 2254 with the current realities of the situation in Syria.He highlighted the necessity of quick and effective cooperation to address the issues facing Syrians.) South Korea's Yoon faces summons amid martial law probe, impeachment trialSouth Korean law enforcement authorities are pushing to summon impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol for questioning over his short-lived martial law decree as the Constitutional Court began its first meeting on Yoon's case to determine whether to remove him from office or reinstate him.A joint investigative team involving police, an anti-corruption agency, and the Defence Ministry said it plans to request that Yoon's office hold him for questioning on Wednesday as they expand a probe into whether his ill-conceived power grab amounted to rebellion.) Mass grave and drug factories uncovered in Damascus A mass grave was discovered in the Husainiyya district of the Syrian capital Damascus.The discovery comes as part of search and investigation efforts continued across Syria following the fall of Bashar al Assad's regime.The mass grave is located in the southeastern part of the capital, just behind Damascus Airport.A villa in Syria’s capital Damascus was identified as a drug production hub linked to Maher al Assad, the brother of ousted regime leader Bashar al Assad.Since the collapse of the decades-long Baath regime on December 8, drug manufacturing centres across Syria have been steadily uncovered.*) Cyclone Chido wreaks havoc in French-colonised archipelagoSeveral hundred people may have been killed by Cyclone Chido in the French-colonised archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The French interior ministry said it would be difficult to account for all victims and said a figure could not be determined at this stage.Cyclone Chido swept through Mayotte overnight, bringing winds of more than 200 kilometres per hour and damaging makeshift housing, government buildings and a hospital.
) Israeli army issues new illegal evacuation orders for south GazaThe Israeli army orders Palestinians to evacuate two residential areas in southern Gaza, including locations previously designated as "safe", in preparation for a military attack.Israeli army asked residents in al-Qarara and Wadi al-Salqa to move immediately westwards. The areas identified by the army on a map attached to the statement include locations previously classified as "safe", where thousands of Palestinians now reside, including displaced individuals who were forced from their original areas and set up tents.Illegal evacuation orders are usually followed by air strikes or ground incursions by the army.) Israel kills 17 Palestinians including mayor in central GazaThe Palestinian civil defence agency in Gaza has said Israeli strikes on the besieged enclave killed 17 people, including seven at a UN school housing displaced people.Civil Defense spokesman said there were seven people killed, including women and children, and at least 10 wounded when Israeli warplanes targeted the Al-Majida Wasila school west of Gaza City.The school was run by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees but like many such facilities, it has been turned into a makeshift shelter for those displaced by Israel's genocidal war in Gaza.) Governance and justice key to Syria's future: Ahmad al SharaaMeanwhile, Ahmad al Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has emphasised the need for Syria to transition from a "revolutionary mentality to a state-centric mentality" in order to build a nation based on the rule of law and strong institutions, ensuring sustainable stability.Sharaa described the devastation across Damascus and the country, urging a well-thought-out approach to ending the ongoing tragedy.He said that efforts to overthrow the regime have been in preparation for years, underscoring the importance of building a new Syria rooted in justice and safeguarding the rights of all citizens.) At least 39 people killed in latest twin attacks in western NigerAt least thirty-nine people have been killed in two attacks in recent days in western Niger, near the border with Burkina Faso.The country’s defence ministry said in a statement that two horrific tragedies happened in the communities of Libiri and Kokorou, criminals cornered by constant operations by defence and security forces launched attacks on defenceless civilian populations. The "barbaric acts" saw 21 people killed in Libiri and 18 in Kokorou, including children.*) South Korea's parliament impeaches President Yoon over martial law attemptSouth Korean lawmakers have impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid, with the opposition declaring a "victory of the people".The vote took place as hundreds of thousands took to the streets of Seoul in rival rallies for and against Yoon, who launched a failed attempt to impose martial law on December 3.Out of 300 lawmakers, 204 voted to impeach the president on allegations of insurrection while 85 voted against it.
) Gaza faces its gravest humanitarian crisis amid Israeli war — UNThe United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees has raised alarms over the dire conditions in Gaza, where thousands of children are hospitalised due to acute malnutrition.Louise Wateridge, UNRWA's senior emergency officer, told reporters in Geneva that Gaza now has the world’s highest number of child amputees, with many surgeries being conducted without anaesthesia.She added that a lack of medicine and medical equipment is causing preventable deaths, as health workers on the ground struggle to treat patients with basic care.) Israel gives ultimatum to Palestinians in northern Gaza to fleeThe Israeli army has issued an ultimatum to Palestinians in southeastern Jabalia, northern Gaza, demanding they evacuate ahead of a planned assault.Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee claimed the area is a launch site for rockets fired at Israel and warned residents to move to "shelters in central Gaza City.") New Syria govt won't recognise PKK/YPG terror group's authority — FidanTürkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said that Syria's transitional government will not have ties with the PKK/YPG terror group, adding Ankara's embassy in Damascus will resume work on Saturday.Fidan told private broadcaster NTV on Friday that Syria now has a "sovereign national government" capable of reclaiming its territory, arguing that this government would not recognise the authority of either the PKK/YPG terror group or "any other power" on its soil.The goal is to have a structure in Syria where terrorism does not exist, terror organisations like the PKK/YPG and Daesh do not receive support, minorities are not mistreated, and basic needs are met, Fidan added.) Canada vows to hit back hard if US imposes tariffsCanada will respond forcefully if the incoming Trump administration follows through on a promise to impose tariffs on imports from Canada, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said.Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Freeland, and the 10 provincial premiers have held two recent phone calls to coordinate strategies against a potential 25% tariff on Canadian imports."If the United States imposes unjustified tariffs, Canada’s response will be robust and effective," Freeland told reporters, emphasising Ottawa’s readiness to defend its trade interests.*) First Lady Erdogan urges global unity to fight climate crisis at UN meetingFirst Lady Emiine Erdogan has chaired the third UN Advisory Board of Eminent Persons on Zero Waste at Istanbul's Presidential Dolmabahce Office.In her opening remarks, Erdogan called for global unity to address the climate crisis and waste management issues, emphasising the urgent need for collective action.She highlighted the escalating challenges posed by environmental crises, urging swift and coordinated efforts to combat their impacts.
) Erdogan, Blinken discuss Syrian political transition, Gaza genocideTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and visiting US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks focusing on regional cooperation and shared goals, including the preservation of Syria's territorial integrity, unity, unitary structureThe discussions in Ankara also addressed the "urgent need" for a ceasefire in Gaza and a prisoner swap deal to enable increased humanitarian aid for Palestinians.Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to Syria's territorial integrity and pledged to take measures against terrorist groups like PKK/PYD/YPG and Daesh, ensuring no let-up in counter-terrorism efforts. ) Israel kills at least 30 Palestinians in Gaza's Nuseirat campIsrael has killed at least 30 Palestinians and wounded 40 in an air strike on a home in the Nuseirat camp in besieged Gaza.Israeli fighter jets targeted several homes and buildings in the camp, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.Reports say most of the victims were women and children.) Israel blocks UN aid convoy to Gaza hospital amid escalating crisisIsrael continues to block aid as the Israeli army denied entry to a UN convoy carrying fuel and medical supplies for Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, the hospital's director said.The World Health Organization informed the hospital that the convoy was forced to return to southern Gaza after being blocked.The hospital faces severe shortages of medical supplies, operating at minimal capacity amid rising injuries.) Over 6,000 Syria's Assad officers documented for war crimes: rights groupThe Syrian Network for Human Rights has identified over 6,000 regime officers involved in war crimes under Bashar al Assad's regime, director Fadl Abdulghani said.In an interview, Abdulghani urged Syria's new government to establish a national court to prosecute those responsible and warned that a lack of justice could provoke revenge from victims' families.He emphasised the need for international support, including expertise and financial aid, to create an independent judiciary in Syria.*) Türkiye appoints charge d’affaires to Damascus after prolonged absenceTürkiye has appointed a temporary charge d’affaires to its embassy in Damascus, marking a significant step in diplomatic engagement with Syria after years of closure due to the civil war.Ambassador Burhan Koroglu, Türkiye's current envoy to Mauritania, has been assigned the role.Koroglu, who began his duties in Nouakchott in December 2023, will now oversee Türkiye's diplomatic affairs in Syria in his new capacity.
) Israel strikes groups securing aid, kills 8 Palestinians Israeli air strikes in Gaza have killed at least eight Palestinians and wounded dozens, targeting groups securing aid trucks.In Rafah City, over 30 were wounded, with several critically hurt. Medics fear the death toll could rise.Another strike hit aid security workers in Khan Younis, wounding several, according to Palestinian medics.) Erdogan announces 'historic reconciliation' between Somalia and EthiopiaTurkish President Erdogan has praised Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for achieving "historic reconciliation" during Ankara-mediated talks on the Somaliland dispute.At a joint press conference, Erdogan announced a declaration between the two leaders to resolve the row. He called it a step toward peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia.Erdogan emphasised Türkiye's goal of fostering stability in this vital region of Africa.) Syria's interim PM calls on refugees to return, rebuild countrySyria's new interim Prime Minister Mohammed al Bashir has pledged to bring back millions of refugees, protect citizens, and restore basic services.In an interview, he urged Syrians abroad to return, calling them essential for rebuilding the country. "Syria is now a free country that has regained its pride," he said.Al Bashir emphasised that restoring security and stability in Syrian cities remains the top priority. ) Afghan minister killed in Kabul suicide blastAfghan Minister for Refugees Khalil ur-Rahman Haqqani was killed in a suicide bombing at the ministry's offices in Kabul, his nephew Anas Haqqani confirmed.Anas called him a "brave Mujahid" and vowed his sacrifice would not be forgotten.A government source reported that the explosion killed the minister and some colleagues, identifying it as a suicide blast.In a statement released on Wednesday, Daesh claimed responsibility for the bombing saying that Haqqani was the primary target of the attack.*) Historic mosques targeted: Hindu far-right seeks to rewrite India's historyIn India, mosques are increasingly under attack by Hindu far-right and have become battlegrounds for competing historical narratives.Hindu far-right groups allege many were built over destroyed temples during Muslim rule.The most recent target in this campaign involves the 16th-century Sambhal Mosque, also known as the Shahi Jama Masjid, in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.A petition filed on November 19, 2024, claims the mosque stands on the ruins of the ancient Harihar temple.The mosque, designated a "protected monument" in 1920 under British rule, now faces legal challenges threatening its historical status.
) Israel kills 7 Palestinians in an overnight strike on Nuseirat camp Medics in besieged Gaza say that Israel’s overnight air strikes on a house in the Nuseirat camp has killed at least seven Palestinians and wounded many others.Israel’s onslaught comes in the backdrop of the UN General Assembly vote on a draft resolution today that seeks an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.In addition to calling for "an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire," the draft resolution seeks "the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.") 104 journalists killed in 2024, over half in Gaza: press groupThe International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has said this year has been "particularly deadly" for journalists with 104 killed worldwide, over half of them being in Gaza.According to the figures collated by the press group 55 Palestinian media workers were killed in 2024 in the face of Israel's offensive in Gaza.Since the start of the war on 7 October 2023, at least 138 Palestinian journalists have been killed.) Russian strike kills three, destroys clinic in Ukraine's ZaporizhzhiaMeanwhile, three people were killed and 16 others wounded in a Russian missile strike that destroyed a private clinic in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia.Officials have said many more were trapped under the rubble.The regional governor Ivan Fedorov said the rescue operations were ongoing in search of at least eight more people who are trapped under the rubble.) Fallen Assad regime used more than 70 torture methods During the rule of the collapsed Baath regime in Syria, thousands were subjected to torture in dozens of centres beyond Sednaya prison.According to the Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR), regime forces detained at least 1.2 million Syrians during the civil war and subjected them to various torture methods.According to the SNHR report, the Baath regime employed 72 torture methods involving physical, psychological, and sexual violence.The regime also subjected detainees to forced labour and solitary confinement, violating basic human rights.*) Eygi's family to meet Blinken, call for US-led probe into her killingThe family of a Turkish-American woman, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, killed by Israel in the Occupied West Bank, will meet US Secretary of State Antony Blinken as they call for an independent US-led probe into her killing.Ozden Bennett, Eygi's sister, said in a statement that for the last three months, Blinken and State Department officials have repeatedly told us to wait for Israel, the government whose army perpetrated the crime against Aysenur, to investigate itself.
) Israel kills 25 Palestinians in a strike on home in northern GazaThe Israeli army has killed two Palestinian families overnight bombing a home that was sheltering them in the town of Beit Hanoon in the northern besieged Gaza.Eyewitnesses said that the Israeli army bombed a house that was sheltering two families from the Al-Kahlout clan, consisting of 25 individuals, burying them under the rubble.A relative of those killed said that Israel committed another massacre, wiping out two families entirely from the civil registry.He said their bodies remain trapped under the rubble of the destroyed house and in the street as rescue operations are impossible due to the dire security situation.) Netanyahu says won't end Gaza war 'now'Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he would not stop Israel's war in besieged Gaza "now", even as the renewed efforts towards a ceasefire are underway.Speaking at a press conference in West Jerusalem, he said, If we end the war now, Hamas will return, recover, rebuild and attack us again — and that is what we do not want to go back to".) Israel violates 1974 agreement in Golan Heights buffer zone — UNThe UN has warned that Israeli military activity along the Golan Heights buffer zone in Syria "would constitute a violation" of a 1974 pact on disengagement between Israel and Syria.UN peacekeepers informed the Israeli counterparts that these actions would constitute a violation of the agreement and that there should be no military forces or activities in the area of separation.A UN spokesperson also confirmed that the Israeli army personnel entered the area of separation and have been moving within that area where they remain in at least three locations throughout the region of separation.) Syria transition must ensure 'accountability' for past crimes - UNThe UN rights chief has said any political transition in Syria following the fall of Bashar al Assad must include accountability for him and others behind crimes committed under his rule. Volker Turk told reporters in Geneva that any political transition must ensure accountability for perpetrators of serious violations and guarantee that those responsible are held accountable.Asked about whether Assad was among those who should be brought to account, he said the "former president of Syria and whoever was in senior leadership positions, there are indeed serious grounds to believe that they may have committed atrocity crimes".*) Ghana's ex-president John Mahama returns with election winGhana's former president John Drahami Mahama has won a historic comeback election victory after the ruling party accepted defeat with voters appearing to punish them for the government's handling of an economic crisis.Following Saturday's election, New Patriotic Party candidate Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded that Ghanaians wanted change after he failed to shake off widespread frustration over high living costs.His defeat ended eight years in power for the NPP under President Nana Akufo-Addo, whose last term was marked by the West African state's worst economic turmoil in years, high inflation and a debt default.
) Syrian spring arrives in winter: 'tyrant' falls, prisoners freedSixty-one years of Syria’s Baath regime came to an end. The Syrian opposition announced in a televised statement that they had freed Damascus and overthrown Bashar al Assad's 24-year regime. The opposition said it "toppled 'tyrant' Bashar al-Assad."Prisoners in the Sednaya Prison in Damascus, known for its association with the regime and notorious torture practices, were freed by demonstrators who stormed the facility.) Bashar al Assad, family are in Moscow: RussiaSyria's Bashar al Assad and his family fled to Russia and have been granted asylum by the Russian authorities.Moscow said that Assad and his family were granted asylum on humanitarian grounds.The Syrian opposition leaders, meanwhile, have guaranteed the safety of Russian military bases and diplomatic missions inside Syria.) Israel continues to bomb southern and central GazaMeanwhile, Israel bombarded central and southern besieged Gaza, killing at least eight Palestinians and wounding several others.A man and his wife were killed, and six others, including their infant daughter, were seriously wounded when an air strike hit the tent where they were staying in the town of Al-Zawayda in central Gaza.Six more Palestinians were killed and several others wounded when an Israeli drone targeted a motorcycle and a civilian vehicle in the Khirbat Al-Adas area in Rafah City.) Trump urges immediate Ukraine truce, hints at possible NATO withdrawalUS President-elect Donald Trump has called for an immediate ceasefire and negotiations between Ukraine and Russia to end what he called "the madness", prompting Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy and the Kremlin to list their conditions.Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social that Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal adding that Kiev had lost some 400,000 soldiers.Trump also said in an interview that he would "absolutely" consider leaving NATO if allies didn't "pay their bills."Trump has long complained that European and Canadian governments in the mutual defence bloc are freeloading on military spending by the US, by far the most powerful partner in NATO.*) Türkiye, US defence chiefs discuss Syria and other regional issuesTurkish National Defence Minister Yasar Guler and US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed the latest developments in Syria and security issues in a phone call. Guler and Austin also discussed bilateral and regional defence issues, the ministry said.It came hours after the collapse of Syria's al-Assad regime after decades in power.
) Syria's Damascus falls to opposition forcesThe Assad regime has largely lost control of Syria's Damascus, as opposition forces entered the centre of the capital city and anti-regime demonstrators occupied key strategic locations.Anti-regime forces entered the centre of Damascus without any serious fight from the regime of Bashar al Assad, whose whereabouts are still unknown.Protesters rose against the regime in many neighbourhoods, while regime forces pulled out from critical sites such as the Defence Ministry, Interior Ministry and the international airport.The regime has largely lost control of Damascus. ) Israel continues to bomb GazaMeanwhile Israel continues with its relentless bombing of Gaza. Israel struck the Tuffah neighbourhood, east of Gaza City, killing three Palestinians and wounding others. Tel Aviv also bombarded a residential compound near Kamal Adwan Hospital in the north of the enclave.Local sources said Israel targeted Saftawi neighbourhood in the north of Gaza City, killing four women.) Israel’s attacks on Palestinians are a post-modern Holocaust:Emine ErdoganTürkiye’s First Lady Emine Erdogan has stressed that Israel’s atrocities in Palestine constitute a "post-modern Holocaust," and are part of a calculated campaign to erase an entire people and their culture from history.Erdogan said in an address at the Doha Forum 2024 in Qatar thart we are witnessing in Palestine is not a war. It is an attempt to impose a world order in which only the strongest and cruellest survive, while other lives are easily expendable.She urged the international community to confront the ongoing violence.) South Korea's ex-defence minister arrested over martial law plotSouth Korean prosecutors have arrested ex-Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun over his alleged role in President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of martial law. The prosecution's special investigative team has questioned Kim, who voluntarily appeared at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office. Kim faces a travel ban as prosecutors investigate.*) Several people dead in Ecuador road accidentThe rescue officials have said an accident in south Ecuador involving a passenger bus left at least 16 people dead and eight others injured, The crash took place in Ecuador's Loja province bordering Peru. The bus collided with a car travelling in the opposite direction and overturned dramatically, according to local media.
⚫ Israel bombs Gaza home, killing 20 Palestinians, wounding dozensIsrael continues its air strikes on Gaza, with a fresh strike on a home in the Nuseirat refugee camp killing at least 20 Palestinians, including six children, and wounding many, according to Gaza's civil defence agency.Medical sources at al-Awda Hospital confirmed the arrival of 14 bodies from the camp, while local authorities stated that nearby hospitals received 39 wounded individuals.⚫ Israel strikes Lebanon, violates truce 155th timeIsraeli warplanes have conducted strikes in southern Lebanon, marking the latest violations of a fragile ceasefire. According to the Lebanese state news agency, Israeli drones flew at low altitudes over Beirut’s southern suburbs before the strikes.The air strikes targeted areas near the Litani River, between Yohmor al-Chaqif and Zawtar al-Sharqiyah in the Nabatieh district. Since the ceasefire took effect on November 27, a total of 155 violations have been recorded.⚫ S Korea's Yoon apologises for martial law order ahead of impeachment voteSouth Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol apologised for declaring martial law, acknowledging the public anxiety caused and vowing not to reimpose it.The apology came ahead of a parliamentary vote on his impeachment and protests demanding his resignation. Yoon pledged to take full responsibility and follow his party’s guidance to address the crisis.⚫ Türkiye warns against PKK, Daesh exploiting Syria's chaosTurkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan informed US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the chaos in Syria should not be leveraged by terror organisations like PKK and Daesh.The two diplomats discussed the situation in Syria during a telephone call on Friday, as reported by Turkish diplomatic sources.Fidan emphasised the need to avoid past mistakes and urged the Syrian regime to engage in dialogue with the opposition and initiate a political process.⚫ Turkish diplomat Feridun Sinirlioglu elected OSCE secretary generalVeteran Turkish diplomat Feridun Sinirlioglu has been elected as the Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, making him the first Turkish citizen to hold the position.Sinirlioglu’s election was confirmed during the OSCE’s 31st Ministerial Council meeting in Malta, which was attended by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.His candidacy was approved unanimously by all 57 OSCE member states across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Fresh Israeli air strikes leave dozens of Palestinians deadIsrael continues its bombardment across Gaza where it has killed more than 30 Palestinians and left many others wounded in the last 24 hours, according to medical sources.Strikes in Beit Lahia targeted homes near Kamal Adwan Hospital and elsewhere, claiming multiple lives, including seven from a single family.In Rafah and Shejaiya, more attacks killed five people, with others injured.Witnesses reported another strike in Beit Lahia destroyed a home sheltering displaced families, leaving 15 dead or missing and causing extensive damage to nearby buildings.Russia signals readiness to use 'any means' in Ukraine warRussian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has signaled Moscow's readiness to use "any means" to defend itself in the Ukraine war, urging the West to take its hypersonic missile launch seriously.Speaking to journalist Tucker Carlson, Lavrov said Russia’s recent use of the Oreshnik missile was a "signal" to deter Ukraine's allies from pursuing what he called a "strategic defeat of Russia."He also warned of further "messages" if the US and its partners fail to heed these warnings.Türkiye calls for calm in managing the Syrian conflictTürkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for calm and prudence in managing a new phase of the Syrian conflict.In a phone call with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Erdogan emphasised Türkiye’s commitment to de-escalating tensions, protecting civilians and advancing a political solution.Highlighting Türkiye’s pivotal role in hosting refugees and fostering diplomatic efforts like the Astana talks, Erdogan reiterated the urgency for the Syrian regime to engage with its people.DOGE team in DC talks for Trump's 'Save America' initiativeElon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy met with US lawmakers behind closed doors to discuss radical federal budget cuts under Donald Trump’s "Save America" agenda.Known as the Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE initiative, the plan seeks to reduce government size by firing federal workers, cutting programs, and slashing regulations.Musk, carrying his young son, stressed accountability with a “naughty and nice” list for those supporting the cuts.Critics warn of public backlash, but Musk and Ramaswamy are undeterred, calling it a “historic opportunity” in a Wall Street Journal op-ed.Billionaire wealth skyrockets 121% in a decadeThe world's billionaires have seen their wealth soar by 121 percent over the past decade, reaching a staggering $14 trillion, according to UBS's latest Billionaire Ambitions report.Tech moguls are leading the pack, with their fortunes growing faster than any other sector.The number of billionaires jumped from 1,757 to 2,682, with hotspots like Switzerland, the UAE, Singapore and the US becoming popular relocation destinations.UBS highlights how this wealth is not just growing but being preserved and used to create lasting societal impact.
) French government falls in historic no-confidence voteIn a historic shakeup, French lawmakers ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier after just three months in office.A no-confidence vote, backed by both the hard left and Marine Le Pen's far-right, toppled his government.With a hung parliament and rising tensions over austerity, President Emmanuel Macron faces the challenge of naming a new leader amidst deep political turmoil.) Amnesty International accuses Israel of 'genocide' in GazaAmnesty International has accused Israel of " committing genocide" in Gaza, revealing a report built on satellite imagery, fieldwork, and dehumanising statements by Israeli officials.Chief Agnes Callamard has warned the global community: "This is genocide. It must stop now."The report demands urgent international intervention to end the systematic devastation and restore dignity to Palestinian lives.) South Korean defence chief resigns after martial law fiascoSouth Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun has stepped down following the controversial declaration of martial law by President Yoon Suk-yeol.The short-lived declaration sparked widespread protests and led to the minister's resignation.Yoon's move, the first of its kind in decades, drew sharp criticism and was quickly overturned by lawmakers.The incident has raised serious concerns about the government's handling of national security issues.) US eyes railway project in Angola to tap African minerals, counter ChinaIn Angola’s Lobito port, President Joe Biden met African leaders to advance a $550M US-backed railway project linking the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia’s mineral-rich zones to global markets.The move aims to counter and reduce China’s dominance in critical mineral exports in the continent.Leaders hailed the initiative as vital for investment, trade and economic growth.The railway’s first phase is underway; completion timelines remain undefined.*) UN warns of global humanitarian crisis, appeals for $47 billion in aidThe UN has issued a dire warning, stating that the world is facing a "poly-crisis" with surging conflicts and climate disasters leaving hundreds of millions in need.To address the crisis, UN is appealing for $47.4 billion in humanitarian aid for 2025.UN Humanitarian Chief Tom Fletcher expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian needs, particularly in regions affected by conflicts like Palestine, Sudan and Ukraine.He acknowledged that the UN's aid is insufficient, stating that approximately 115 million people will not receive the necessary support.
) Israel strikes northern Gaza hospital, wounds medicsIsraeli drone strikes have wounded at least three medical staff members at Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza, leaving one in critical condition.Israel's relentless bombardment has devastated the Palestinian enclave's healthcare system.Crossings remain sealed, blocking medical aid and preventing patient evacuations.Witnesses report that Israeli forces have planted explosives in residential areas in the Beit Lahia Project, preparing homes for demolition.Over 44,500 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's Gaza conflict, which has now entered its 425th day.) Israel building military bases in central Gaza — reportIsrael is reportedly fortifying its presence in Gaza with new military bases, demolishing over 600 buildings to create a buffer zone, The New York Times has revealed.Israel seized the four-mile Netzarim corridor — a key road that divides the enclave, said the newspaper, during the early months of the onslaught against Gaza.The US Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder has warned Israel such actions could undermine regional peace and stability.) South Korea's Yoon faces risk of impeachmentAfter President Yoon Suk-yeol's controversial martial law declaration, South Korea is in turmoil.The main opposition party demands his resignation or faces impeachment as his move sparked widespread protests and international condemnation. Impeaching Yoon would require support from two-thirds of the parliament — 200 of its 300 members.The Democratic Party and other small opposition parties together have 192 seats.If Yoon is impeached, he'll be stripped of his constitutional powers until the Constitutional Court can rule on his fate.) Erdogan to Putin: Syrian regime must engage in political solutionsTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasised Syria’s territorial integrity and the urgency of a fair resolution to its crisis.He called for Syrian regime engagement, prioritising civilian protection and regional stability.Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye's fight against terrorism and pledged continued efforts for peace amidst shifting regional dynamics.*) Georgia's top court rejects president's bid to overturn election resultsGeorgia's Constitutional Court has rejected President Salome Zourabichvili's lawsuit to annul the results of the disputed parliamentary election held in October.The ruling said the lawsuit filed by Zourabichvili will not be accepted for "substantive consideration".The court also rejected another lawsuit filed by 30 opposition lawmakers against the election results, according to which the Georgian Dream party won a majority.The decision made is final and is not subject to appeal or revision, according to the ruling.
) Israel kills at least nine in Lebanon, violating ceasefireIsrael launched airstrikes on southern Lebanon, killing nine people and wounding three others amid a fragile ceasefire violated by Tel Aviv, according to Lebanon's Health Ministry.The attacks targeted the villages of Haris, where five were killed and two wounded, and Tallous, where four people lost their lives and one person was wounded.Israel has breached its ceasefire with Lebanon around "100" times since the agreement went into effect last week, according to CNN.) Türkiye closely following developments in Syria: ErdoganPresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Türkiye is closely monitoring the renewed clashes between the Bashar al Assad regime and armed opposition groups in Syria. He emphasised that Ankara is taking necessary measures to address the escalation.President Erdogan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability, saying, “We remain ready to do whatever we must to extinguish the fire in our region.”) Zelenskyy: Ukraine wants to retake territory under Russia through diplomacyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Kiev aims to reclaim territories under Russian control, including Crymea, through diplomatic means.“Our army lacks the strength to take back some territories, like Crymea. That is true. We do have to find diplomatic solutions,” Zelenskyy said during an interview with Japan's Kyodo News.He emphasised that diplomatic negotiations would only proceed when Ukraine feels “strong enough” to deter further military actions by Russia, ensuring a stable resolution to the conflict.) Bangladesh denounces attack on its consulate in IndiaBangladesh has strongly condemned a violent attack on its consulate in Agartala, the capital of India’s northeastern state of Tripura, calling the incident preplanned.Protesters from the Hindu Sangharsh Samiti stormed the premises of the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission, vandalised the flagpole, and burned the Bangladesh national flag.In a statement on Monday, Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its strong disapproval, saying it "deeply resents" the incident and calling for accountability.*) 'The Innovation Imperative': Doha Forum 2024 set to begin in Qatari capitalThe 22nd edition of the Doha Forum is set to begin on December 7, 2024, at the Sheraton Hotel in Qatar's capital. Recognised as a premier global platform, the forum brings together world leaders and policymakers to address pressing global challenges and propose actionable solutions.This year’s theme, “The Innovation Imperative,” will guide discussions over two days.Topics will include geopolitical tensions, global security, humanitarian crises, and the role of technological advancements in resolving these issues.
) Hamas and Fatah discuss Egyptian proposals for border reopeningThe Palestinian National Liberation Movement has said it is holding discussions on the Egyptian proposal to reopen the Rafah border crossing in Cairo with the Hamas resistance group.A Fatah official said that the Palestinian National Liberation Movement is keen on an immediate end to the Israeli war on Gaza, expediting aid delivery and initiating reconstruction.A Fatah delegation is present in Cairo discussing the proposal and having the Palestinian Authority manage it on the Palestinian side.) Death toll rises as Syrian regime targets civilians in IdlibIn Syria’s Idlib, the number of civilians killed in airstrikes carried out by regime forces in Idlib province rose to 16.Regime leader Bashar al-Assad's warplanes targeted many neighbourhoods in the city.Sources from the Syrian Civil Defense said that 59 civilians were also wounded, including 21 children and 19 women.Clashes broke out on November 27 between Assad regime forces and opposition groups in the western countryside of Aleppo province in northern Syria.) US will not return nuclear weapons to Ukraine — officialThe White House has said the United States is not considering returning to Ukraine the nuclear weapons it gave up after the Soviet Union collapsed.When questioned, national security adviser Jake Sullivan made his remarks that some unidentified Western officials had suggested US President Joe Biden could give Ukraine the arms before he leaves office.) Syrian National Army captures Tel Rifaat, deals blow to PKK/YPG terroristsThe Syrian National Army (SNA) has gained full control over the central district of Tel Rifaat in its Operation Freedom Dawn, launched against the PKK/YPG terror group while continuing its advance in the outskirts.Entering the district from the western side near Deyr Jamal, troops cleared Tel Rifaat’s centre of terrorists following intense clashes.The army also liberated Hirbil village to the east of the district and is progressing in other areas on the periphery.*) Flash flooding hits Australia's QueenslandHeavy rainfall has resulted in riverine and flash floods across parts of Australia's northeastern Queensland, with more storms predicted.According to the Australia Broadcasting Corporation, parts of the state capital Brisbane have been submerged by flash flooding, with more storms predicted for south-east Queensland over the next 24 hours.The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) said massive rainfall was recorded overnight, with the heaviest of about 77 mm falling inland from the Gold Coast in under four hours.
) European protests demand justice for Palestine amid Israeli attacksMass demonstrations across Europe called for an end to Israeli brutal attacks in Gaza, demanding justice, solidarity, and an immediate ceasefire.Major cities like Stockholm, Sarajevo, London and others in Spain witnessed large-scale rallies with participants condemning Israeli actions and their governments' complicity. ) Syrian opposition gains control of entire Idlib, advances towards HamaOpposition forces recaptured more districts, securing control over Idlib province. Following victories in Aleppo and Idlib, the groups are now advancing towards regime-held Hama. Intense clashes since November 27 have led to the capture of over 50 villages in eastern and southeastern Idlib. ) Blast damages canal feeding power plants in KosovoAn explosion struck a canal supplying water to Kosovo's main coal power plants, with Prime Minister Albin Kurti blaming Serbia for a "terrorist attack." He accused "professional gangs" under Serbian direction of targeting critical infrastructure. The blast occurred near Zubin Potok, disrupting cooling systems vital to Kosovo's electricity supply. ) Trump taps Kash Patel to be next FBI directorDonald Trump has picked Kash Patel as his choice for FBI director, selecting a trusted ally to revamp the agency and address alleged "conspirators." Trump called Patel a "brilliant lawyer and 'America First' champion" known for exposing corruption and defending justice. The move challenges Senate Republicans to decide how far they’ll support Trump’s push to transform federal law enforcement.*) Over 100 nations back plastic treaty limits as talks intensifyNegotiators at the UN's INC-5 talks in Busan are locked in fierce debate over a global treaty to tackle plastic pollution. Over 100 nations back a plan to cap plastic production, clashing with oil-producing countries focusing solely on waste. If agreed upon, the treaty could rival the 2015 Paris Agreement in significance for environmental protection.
) Lebanon reports new ceasefire violations by IsraelThe Israeli army violated the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon seven more times, including shelling towns in southern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese state news agency.The reported violations were concentrated in the Marjayoun district of Nabatieh Governorate and the Tyre district.The army also shelled the outskirts of Markaba, Talloussa, Odaisseh, Taybeh and Houla towns and sent four tanks into the western part of Khiyam.) ICC prosecutor says Israel’s appeal of arrest warrants should be dismissedThe International Criminal Court prosecutor, Karim Khan, has called for Israel’s appeal against arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to be thrown out.In a document shared on the ICC’s website, Khan explained that the current decision isn’t up for appeal just yet — though Israel might be able to challenge it later in the legal process.Khan pointed out that the court’s ruling makes it clear: Israel can’t contest jurisdiction until the ICC makes a decision under Article 58 of the Rome Statute. ) Zelenskyy hints at truce in exchange for NATO membershipUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that a ceasefire deal could be reached if the Ukrainian territory under Kiev’s control was put “under the NATO umbrella” in a bid to stop the “hot stage of the war”.Zelenskyy told Sky News that no one has proposed NATO membership for only part of Ukraine, explaining that granting NATO membership to the areas currently under Ukrainian control could be a solution to end the active phase of the war.) Opposition groups take control of Syria's Aleppo city centreThe opposition groups have broken through to the centre of Aleppo, one of Syria’s two largest cities, local sources said.The anti-regime armed groups, which had been advancing towards Aleppo from the west after clashing with regime forces for three days, broke through the defence lines in the Hamdaniyya, New Aleppo and Zahra axes in Aleppo’s western countryside and entered the city centre.After three days of fighting in the Aleppo and Idlib provinces, opposition groups are said to have taken control of over 400 square kilometres of territory.*) Top UN court to open unprecedented climate hearingsThe world’s top court will next week start unprecedented hearings aimed at finding a “legal blueprint” for how countries should protect the environment from damaging greenhouse gases — and what the consequences are if they do not.From Monday, lawyers and representatives from more than 100 countries and organisations will make submissions before the International Court of Justice in The Hague.But others fear the UN-backed request for a non-binding advisory opinion will have limited impact and it could take the UN’s top court months, or even years, to deliver.
) Israeli strikes kill at least eight more Palestinians across Gaza Israeli forces have killed at least eight Palestinians, including five members of one family, in separate air strikes across Gaza. In one attack on the Nuseirat refugee camp, five people were killed. Palestinian authorities also reported that three others were killed in a separate strike in the western part of Gaza City.) Palestinians in north Gaza describe ‘real-life horror movie’ People in northern Gaza are describing the situation as something straight out of a horror movie. Umm Ahmad Lubbad, a 52-year-old from Beit Lahia, said Palestinians are living a real-life nightmare under bombing that never stops — whether from the air or the ground. She told reporters by phone that while she’s terrified to leave her home, she’s ready to go if Israeli forces order an evacuation.) RSF reattacks villages in Sudan’s Al-Jazira, killing manyIn Sudan’s Al-Jazira state, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have launched fresh attacks on villages, killing at least eight people and leaving many others injured. The violence began in the village of Al-Fuwwar on Wednesday, forcing most residents to flee, according to the Sudanese rights group Middle Call. On Thursday, the attacks expanded, targeting eight more villages, including Salim, Abu Karna and Umm Wazain. The strikes were accompanied by intense artillery shelling.) If Ukraine uses ‘dirty bomb’, Russia will use all its weapons: Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Russia would use all its weapons if Ukraine were to acquire nuclear arms. Speaking at a press conference in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin said, “If the country we’re essentially at war with becomes a nuclear power, we will use every means of destruction available to us. Let me stress this: everything.” This comes as reports suggest some Western officials believe the US might provide Ukraine with nuclear weapons before President Biden leaves office.*) Keffiyeh-decorated peace balloons float over Cappadocia In Cappadocia, peace advocates have taken to the skies to protest Israel’s actions in Gaza — using hot-air balloons adorned with keffiyeh patterns. The balloons, launched by the Foundation for Culture and Civilization, floated gracefully over the region, with the keffiyeh — a symbol of Palestinian identity — standing out as a powerful message of solidarity. Recently, the keffiyeh was added to the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
) Israel, Hezbollah claim victory as Gaza genocide continues Both Israel and Hezbollah are declaring themselves victors after their recent clashes ended with a ceasefire. The Israeli army boasted about crippling Hezbollah’s capabilities and eliminating its senior leaders. Meanwhile, Hezbollah framed the conflict as a strong defence against Israel’s ground incursion, asserting it stood firm “in support of the steadfast Palestinian people”.Hezbollah also claimed “victory” in the conflict and warned it remains “fully ready” to respond to any future Israeli moves.) Israel didn’t win in Lebanon, truce agreed ‘under duress’ — Netanyahu ally A far-right Israeli minister has blasted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, accusing it of being forced into a ceasefire in Lebanon and failing to defeat Hezbollah. Speaking to Maariv, Israeli Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu didn’t mince words, calling the ceasefire terms “terrible” and criticising Israel’s dependence on US backing. Eliyahu, from the far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) Party, was particularly critical of the deal, which his party leader, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, opposed in the security cabinet vote.) Mexico warns Trump’s tariffs could destroy 400,000 US jobs Mexico has fired back at President-elect Donald Trump’s tariff threats, warning they could boomerang badly on the US economy. Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard cautioned that imposing 25 percent tariffs on Mexican imports would be a costly mistake for US businesses. Citing figures from American car manufacturers with operations in Mexico, Ebrard said “about 400,000 jobs in the US would be lost”.) Volkswagen to sell operations in China’s Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous RegionVolkswagen is cutting ties with its operations in China’s Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region amid ongoing allegations of human rights abuses, including forced labour.The German auto giant announced plans to sell its factory in Urumqi, the region’s capital, along with a test track in Turpan, to a Chinese firm.A company spokesperson confirmed the sale to Shanghai Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (SMVIC) in a press release issued Wednesday.*) UK counter-terrorism police arrest six over ‘PKK activity’ British police said they arrested six suspects and were conducting raids in London as part of a counter-terrorism investigation into links with the banned terrorist PKK organisation. Acting Commander Helen Flanagan said the arrests came after a detailed investigation into activities the British police believed were connected to terrorist activity tied to the PKK.Officers searched eight locations across the city, including a community centre in north London, which has been ordered to close for two weeks.
) Ceasefire in Israel’s war on Lebanon takes effectThe ceasefire in Israel’s war on Lebanon has begun as a region on edge wonders whether it will hold.The truce began at 0200 GMT on Wednesday, hours after Israel carried out its most intense wave of air strikes in capital Beirut since the start of its war in the region in October 2023.There were signs of apparent celebration in Beirut and no reported violations shortly after ceasefire took effect.) US to lead new ‘push’ for Gaza ceasefire with Türkiye, othersUS President Joe Biden has said the United States would lead a fresh effort to secure a truce in Gaza, as he welcomed a ceasefire to end hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.The US president said Hamas, now, has a “choice to make”. He said “their only way out is to release the hostages, including American citizens, which they hold, and, in the process, bring an end to the fighting”.Biden said the US will make another push with Türkiye, Egypt, Qatar and Israel among others to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.) Pakistani authorities begin crackdown against Imran Khan’s supportersThe party of Pakistan’s jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan has announced it is calling off its protest after security forces launched a massive operation to dislodge Khan’s supporters who had stormed the capital Islamabad to demand his release.This comes after thousands of Khan supporters, defying government warnings, broke through a barrier of shipping containers blocking off Islamabad and entered a high-security zone, where they clashed with security forces, facing tear gas shelling, mass detentions and live gunfire.Tension has been high in Islamabad since Sunday when Khan’s supporters began a “long march” to demand the former premier’s release.) Russia expels UK diplomat over spying in a fresh diplomatic spatRussia has expelled a British diplomat it accused of spying, telling London it would not tolerate “undeclared” intelligence officers operating on its territory, accusations that have ignited a fresh diplomatic feud with London.Britain has rejected the claims one of its embassy employees was a spy, the latest in a string of espionage allegations that come with relations between the two countries running at an all-time low.The spat comes a week after Ukraine was given permission to start firing UK-supplied long-range missiles at Russia — drawing scorn and threats of direct military retaliation from President Vladimir Putin.*) Impressed by KAAN, US keen to make F-35 sales to Türkiye — Yasar GulerThe US has revised its position on the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Türkiye after witnessing Ankara’s progress with its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet, Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler said.When the Americans saw that we could build and fly the KAAN, the Turkish defence minister said, they changed their minds a bit about the F-35.Guler, however, added that no progress has yet been made and insisted on reclaiming Türkiye’s production share and maintaining its request to acquire F-35s
) Imran Khan supporters enter Islamabad in a major show of forceThousands of protesters defied tear gas and roadblocks to demand the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. Police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at demonstrators clashing near the city’s western entry. The cricketer-turned-politician has been jailed since August 2023, facing a procession of legal accusations ranging from illegal marriage to graft and inciting riots.) Lebanon lawmaker says ceasefire deal with Israel closeA ceasefire deal between Lebanon and Israel could be announced within 36 hours, according to a Lebanese parliamentarian. Negotiations are reportedly in advanced stages, with optimism for a positive outcome. Israel's security cabinet is set to meet to approve the deal. ) NATO chief meets Turkish President ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Ankara for key talks. Their discussions tackled global security challenges, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Rutte highlighted Türkiye's crucial role in NATO, praising its military strength and contributions to regional security. ) Scores of Somalis die as two boats drift for weeks off MadagascarMadagascar has rescued 48 Somali nationals from two boats found drifting off its coast, officials say. At least 22 others from the same group tragically died at sea. Fishermen discovered the survivors and brought them to Nosy Be island. The boats, carrying 70 people in total, suffered engine failures and were left stranded.*) Elon Musk says drones must replace jets, calls them future of warfareElon Musk lashed out at modern fighter jets, saying drones are the future of air combat. He called manned jets like the F-35 obsolete, warning they only put pilots at risk. Musk criticised those still building these jets, labeling them "idiots," and shared a video of hundreds of drones in formation.
) US threatens to withdraw from Lebanon ceasefire mediationUS envoy Amos Hochstein threatened to withdraw from mediation efforts aimed at brokering a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon if Tel Aviv does not accept a US proposal.According to Israel’s Channel 13, Hochstein informed Israel's ambassador to the US, Michael Herzog, that if Tel Aviv fails to respond positively to the US ceasefire proposal with Lebanon, the US will pull out of the mediation process it is leading between the two sides.) Uruguay elects Yamandu Orsi as its presidentLeft-wing candidate Yamandu Orsi was elected president of Uruguay, official results showed, as he prevailed over centre-right rival Alvaro Delgado in a tightly-contested election.With 94.4 percent of ballots counted, Orsi won 1,123,420 votes compared to Delgado's 1,042,001, the country's Electoral Court said.Delgado has conceded defeat in the closely-fought poll that saw voters turn away from five years of conservative rule.) Seoul’s possible arms supply to Kiev will 'destroy' bilateral ties — RussiaRussia has warned South Korea that supplying weapons to Ukraine would “destroy” relations between Moscow and Seoul.Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko said using South Korean arms against Russian citizens would have dire consequences, state media reported.Rudenko criticised linking South Korean arms supplies to Ukraine with alleged cooperation between Russia and North Korea, accusing South Korea of exaggerating reports about North Korean troops in Russia.) Several dead as bus rolls into ravine in BrazilTwenty-three people died when a bus on a remote mountain road in Brazil's Alagoas state dived into a ravine.Rescue services confirmed that 16 died at the scene and another person -- a pregnant woman -- succumbed after being taken to hospital Sunday, the Alagoas state government said in a statement.Brazilian media said "dozens" of people were injured, and that the bus had been carrying 40 passengers.*) Traditional clay pottery sees resurgence in war-ravaged GazaClay pottery is back in Gaza, helping residents cope with a severe shortage of crockery amid the ongoing Israeli war on the tiny enclave.Potter Jafar Atallah says demand for plates has skyrocketed as supply routes are cut off due to tight Israeli siege.Many of Gaza’s 2.4 million displaced residents have lost or abandoned basic household items while fleeing Israeli air strikes.With imports limited, locals are turning to resourceful methods like pottery to meet their daily needs.
) Death toll from Israeli attacks soars to 3,670 in Lebanon The human toll in Lebanon keeps climbing. Over the past 24 hours, at least 25 more people have been killed in Israeli attacks, pushing the death count to a staggering 3,670 since October last year, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The ministry said 58 more people were injured, adding to the total of 15,413 wounded since the conflict began.) Russia’s new legislation: Sign up to fight in Ukraine, write off bad loans Join the war, erase your debts — that’s the new deal in Russia. President Vladimir Putin has signed off on a law allowing those who enlist to fight in Ukraine to cancel unpaid debts of up to $96,000. This incentive targets new recruits, with the promise extending to contracts signed after December 1. The relief isn’t just for the fighters — their spouses are also covered. Analysts say this move aims to boost enlistment for a conflict that’s now nearing its third year and straining Russia’s manpower.) Türkiye warns of escalating threats if Syria fails to progress: Fidan Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said Türkiye has no intention of aggression and regime change in Syria.The Turkish foreign minister said the lack of tangible steps on terrorism and refugees is creating a more substantial threat within Syria.Fidan told reporters in Ankara that if diplomatic and constructive approaches fail, then Türkiye will inevitably evaluate other measures when the time comes.) Sudanese army recaptures key city from Rapid Support Forces A victory for the Sudanese army — they’ve announced the recapture of Sinja, the capital of Sennar State, from the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF. In a short but triumphant statement, the army declared its victory and released videos showing soldiers reclaiming the 17th Infantry Division’s headquarters.The RSF, so far, has remained silent on the army’s claim.*) Wealthy polluters to pay poor: COP29 negotiates $300B climate dealA deal hammered out under intense pressure: wealthy nations have agreed to contribute $300 billion a year to help poorer, vulnerable countries tackle the climate crisis. The agreement, finalised in the early hours under a stadium roof in Azerbaijan, follows two gruelling weeks of negotiations. As nearly 200 nations debated climate finance, last-minute edits were still being made on the floor before the pact was finally approved.
) Latest Israeli strike kills four, wounds dozens in Lebanon’s BeirutIsrael has launched at least four missiles targeting central Beirut, leaving a devastating impact. According to local reports, four people were killed, and at least 33 others injured, with fears that the death toll could climb further. The attack focused on Beirut’s Basta neighbourhood, where residents say many buildings were reduced to rubble. Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported that Israeli warplanes unleashed five missiles, completely flattening an eight-story residential building.) Cost of Gaza genocide: Israeli troops afflicted with mental illnessThe Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reports that at least six Israeli soldiers have died by suicide in recent months. The cause? Severe psychological strain from what’s being described as prolonged genocide in Gaza and the ongoing war in southern Lebanon. The investigation hints that the actual numbers could be even higher. Despite earlier promises, the Israeli military has yet to release official figures. This report shines a light on a growing mental health crisis within the Israeli army, which has been carrying out mass killings and widespread destruction in Gaza for the past 414 days.) North Korean troops in Russia might ‘soon’ join fray in Ukraine: Pentagon Thousands of North Korean troops stationed in Russia could soon take up arms in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, according to US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin. Speaking from Fiji, Austin shared that around 10,000 North Korean soldiers are reportedly stationed in Russia’s Kursk region, being actively “integrated into Russian formations”.“Based on their training and deployment, I fully expect them to engage in combat soon,” Austin said. However, he added that there hasn’t yet been significant evidence of their involvement in active fighting.) Russia will do more tests of hypersonic Oreshnik missile: Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country isn’t slowing down when it comes to its new Oreshnik hypersonic missile. Speaking on Friday, he confirmed that Russia would conduct more combat tests of the missile and ensure stocks are ready for use. This announcement came just a day after Russia fired the Oreshnik into Ukraine for the first time — a move Putin says was in response to Ukraine using US ballistic missiles and British cruise missiles against Russia.Calling the missile’s debut test “successful”, Putin made it clear that more trials are on the horizon.*) UN climate cash deal proposes $250B aid for poorer nations annually In a bid to break a deadlock at the UN climate talks, a new draft deal proposes that wealthy nations commit $250 billion a year to help poorer countries fight global warming. Delegates from nearly 200 nations, gathered in Azerbaijan for COP29, had been waiting anxiously for this proposal after two weeks of tough negotiations. The draft sets an ambitious target: $1.3 trillion annually by 2035. The plan relies heavily on contributions from rich governments, supplemented by private-sector funding.
) At least 90 Palestinians killed in latest Israeli strikes on north GazaAt least two Palestinians were killed and several others injured when Israeli warplanes bombed a house south of Gaza City, raising the death toll in the besieged territory since Thursday morning to 90, according to medical sources.The Israeli bombing targeted the Al-Dayah family home in the Al-Sabra neighbourhood, south of Gaza City, a Palestinian newspaper WAFA reported, adding that ambulance and rescue crews were still searching for missing people under the rubble.A number of medical staff were also injured inside the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza as a result of Israeli drones dropping bombs at the hospital yard.) World hails ICC’s Netanyahu, Galant decisionsThe International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ex-defence minister Yoav Gallant spark global reactions.Palestine hails it as justice for "Israeli war criminals," while Israel brands it a "dark moment" for the ICC.Global leaders, from Türkiye to South Africa, praise the move, urging accountability.The US opposes the court's actions, calling them "a dangerous joke.") Russia's Putin threatens strikes on countries arming UkraineRussian President Vladimir Putin issued a stark warning to the West, asserting Moscow's right to target nations supplying weapons to Ukraine.Calling the conflict "global," Putin vowed readiness for "any scenario."Earlier, Ukraine accused Russia of firing an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Dnipro. The strike reportedly hit critical infrastructure, with local officials assessing widespread damage. ) Trump taps Pam Bondi as attorney general after Matt Gaetz bows outPresident-elect Donald Trump has nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to lead the Justice Department, after his first choice, Matt Gaetz, withdrew his name from consideration amid scrutiny over sex trafficking allegations. Bondi, who leads the legal arm of the America First Policy Institute think tank, is known as a staunch Trump ally and served on the president-elect’s legal team during his first impeachment.*) COP29 talks stall over climate financeTalks at COP29 in Baku remain gridlocked as rich and poor nations clash over climate finance.A fresh draft text recognises the $1 trillion annual need for developing countries but lacks a clear funding figure.With just a day left, negotiators scramble for consensus, while activists decry the absence of concrete commitments.
) Israel kills 66 Palestinians, wounds 100 in new Gaza massacreIsrael unleashed another deadly attack in northern Gaza, killing at least 66 Palestinians and injuring 100 more in a devastating air strike near Kamal Adwan Hospital, witnesses and local journalists report. Palestinian journalist Hossam Shabat described the scene as “horrific”, revealing that the bombing targeted displaced people and “wiped out entire families”. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital’s director, painted an even grimmer picture, saying that “there were about 200 people at the site when it was bombed. Many are dead, others are injured, and so many are still buried under the rubble”.) Senate scuttles Sanders’ shot at stopping sale of US arms to IsraelThe US Senate has rejected Senator Bernie Sanders’ attempt to halt arms sales to Israel, even as concerns grow over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Out of 100 senators, a striking majority — 79 — voted against blocking sales of tank rounds to Israel, while 18 supported the measure. Similar resistance met Sanders’ second proposal to stop mortar shipments, with 78 senators voting “no”. The votes broke largely along party lines, with all “yes” votes coming from Sanders’ Democratic caucus allies. A third proposal, targeting the sale of bomb-guidance systems, was also on the table but faced dim prospects.) Ukraine said to have fired UK Storm Shadow missiles into RussiaFor the first time, Ukraine has used British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles against Russia, British media reports, with London reportedly giving the green light. Several of the long-range missiles were fired at a Russian military target, according to the Financial Times, which cited a Western official. The Times confirmed the move, noting it’s the first deployment of these missiles since Britain handed them over. ) Paramilitary rampage in central Sudan kills at least 40 people — medicViolence erupted in central Sudan as paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched an assault on a village north of Wad Madani, leaving at least 40 people dead, according to a medic from Wad Rawah Hospital.“All the victims suffered direct gunshot wounds,” said the medic, who spoke anonymously due to repeated attacks on healthcare workers. Eyewitnesses said the attack began Tuesday night, with the paramilitary RSF launching a deadly assault on the village. This bloodshed comes amid months of clashes between the RSF and Sudan’s military, pushing Al-Jazira state deeper into chaos and turning once-safe areas into battlegrounds.And finally…*) US charges Indian tycoon Gautam Adani with duping investors, bribery plotGautam Adani, the billionaire behind India’s Adani Group, is now facing US federal charges for an alleged bribery scheme involving hundreds of millions of dollars. Prosecutors in Brooklyn claim that between 2020 and 2024, Adani, along with two associates, paid $250 million in bribes to Indian officials to secure lucrative solar energy contracts projected to yield $2 billion in profits. The accused executives allegedly covered their tracks with false and misleading financial statements, raising over $3 billion in loans and bonds.
) Ballistic missile attack on Russia will trigger nuclear retaliation — PutinRussian President Vladimir Putin approved an updated nuclear doctrine, signalling Moscow might use nuclear weapons in response to conventional missile strikes supported by nuclear powers. The revision, prompted by US approval for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia, comes on the 1,000th day of the Russia-Ukraine war.The updated policy considers attacks with conventional weapons, drones, or aircraft as potential triggers for a nuclear response. Additionally, aggression by a coalition member state would be treated as aggression by the entire coalition.) Israel bombs Gaza home, leaving a dozen Palestinians deadIsraeli air strikes hit a Joudeh family home in Gaza’s Jabalia al-Balad, killing at least 12 Palestinians and leaving 10 missing, witnesses report. Journalist Hossam Shabat, named on an Israeli hit list, was injured in another attack. “I was deliberately targeted,” Shabat shared, recalling chaos and carnage as he responded to survivors before another bomb struck.) Biden failed Gaza, stood by Israel blindly: White House staffWhite House staffers criticise President Joe Biden over Palestine’s Gaza, citing his failure to enforce an ultimatum requiring Israel to ease the humanitarian crisis or face arms restrictions, according to a report by Politico. A letter from Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had set a 30-day deadline for measures like allowing 350 aid trucks into Gaza daily. Despite the deadline passing, Biden reaffirmed the US's "ironclad" support for Israel. Meanwhile, the Senate is set to vote on blocking $20B in arms sales amid global criticism of civilian harm.) Pakistan launches anti-terror operation amid rising attacksPakistan has launched a major military operation against separatist groups in the southwest region, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).This comes after a recent surge in attacks, including a deadly suicide bombing at a train station. The operation aims to target groups responsible for targeting civilians and disrupting the country's economic progress.*) Türkiye aims to double down on African tradeTürkiye is setting its sights on a significant boost in trade with Africa, aiming to reach a staggering $50 billion. This ambitious goal, nearly ten times the 2003 figure, is a testament to the growing economic ties between the two regions.Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz emphasised Türkiye's commitment to supporting Africa's development, highlighting Turkish investments and projects across the continent. With increased diplomatic efforts and a focus on key sectors like agriculture, energy, and technology, Türkiye is poised to strengthen its partnership with African nations.
) G20 calls for 'comprehensive' ceasefires in Gaza, LebanonG20 leaders called for "comprehensive" ceasefires in Israel’s brutal wars on both Palestine’s Gaza and Lebanon in a joint statement at a summit in Brazil.The leaders of the world's biggest economies called for a US-proposed permanent ceasefire in Palestine's Gaza in return for the release of all hostages, as well as a Lebanon ceasefire “that enables citizens to return safely to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line.”) Amsterdam mayor backtracks on 'pogrom' remark after post-match violenceAmsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has backtracked on calling the November 7 clashes between Israeli fans and pro-Palestinian demonstrators a "pogrom." Speaking to Dutch broadcaster NPO, she said, "If I had known it would be weaponised this way, I wouldn’t have used that word," expressing regret over its impact.The violence erupted as Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters stormed through Amsterdam, tearing down Palestinian flags and chanting inflammatory slogans. Halsema also criticised Israel’s quick response to the incident, saying her administration was caught off guard by the global attention.) Russia vetoes UNSC's Sudan move, reminds members of carte blanche to IsraelRussia vetoed a United Nations Security Council draft resolution that called on Sudan's warring parties to cease hostilities immediately and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.All other countries of the 15-member council, including China, voted in favour of the measure drafted by Britain and Sierra Leone.Russia was the sole member to vote against while the Sudanese Foreign Ministry, aligned with the main military, supported the decision.) Ukraine marks 1,000 days of war with Russia as US backs missile useUkraine is marking 1,000 days since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, with weary troops battling on numerous fronts and Kiev besieged by frequent drone and missile strikes.In a boost for the beleaguered country, US President Joe Biden gave the green light for US missiles to be used against targets deeper inside Russia, potentially limiting its options to launch attacks and supply the front.Biden's decision could be a "game changer" for Kiev, the country's Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, said.*) UNESCO 'enhanced protection' for 34 Lebanon heritage sitesDozens of heritage sites in Lebanon were granted "provisional enhanced protection" by UNESCO, offering a higher level of legal shielding as Israel's war on the country continues.The 34 cultural properties affected "now benefit from the highest level of immunity against attack and use for military purposes", the United Nations cultural body said in a statement.UNESCO said the decision "helps send a signal to the entire international community of the urgent need to protect these sites".
) Biden approves Ukraine's use of US long-range missiles to strike RussiaPresident Joe Biden has, for the first time, approved Ukraine's use of US-supplied long-range missiles to target locations inside Russia, according to sources familiar with the decision.Sources say Ukraine is expected to carry out its first long-range strikes in the coming days. The White House declined to comment on the development.The decision follows reports of Russia deploying North Korean ground troops to bolster its forces, a move that has raised concerns in both Washington and Kiev.) Erdogan, Lula discuss strengthening bilateral ties at G20 summitTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. According to Türkiye's Communications Directorate, the leaders discussed enhancing bilateral ties and addressing global issues.Erdogan stressed the importance of high-level dialogue and reaffirmed Türkiye's dedication to strengthening their strategic partnership.) Israeli strike kills 34 Palestinians in Gaza's Beit LahiaGaza’s civil defence agency has said an overnight Israeli air strike on a five-storey residential building in northern Gaza’s Beit Lahia has killed at least 34 Palestinians.Mahmud Bassal, the agency's spokesperson, warned rescue efforts face significant challenges due to ongoing artillery shelling and gunfire, while the director of the Kamal Adwan Hospital reported dozens of injuries and said more Palestinians are believed to be trapped under the rubble.The Israeli military confirmed the strikes, saying they were part of its ongoing raids in northern Gaza.) India's capital shuts schools because of smogCity authorities announced India’s New Delhi has moved schools to online classes indefinitely due to worsening toxic smog.The city’s annual smog crisis has once again blanketed the capital in hazardous air as PM2.5 pollutant levels, which can penetrate the bloodstream and cause cancer, were recorded at 57 times above WHO’s recommended daily maximum on Sunday evening.Authorities said the measures aim to "prevent further deterioration" of air quality, with hopes that reduced school commutes will cut traffic and pollution levels. *) UN chief urges G20 to lead on emissions cuts as COP29 talks stallUN Secretary-General António Guterres urged G20 leaders meeting in Rio de Janeiro to break the deadlock at concurrent UN climate talks in Azerbaijan where negotiations have stalled over a proposed $1 trillion climate investment package for developing nations.With the G20 responsible for 80 percent of global emissions, Guterres said "The spotlight is naturally on the G20. They must lead by example."
) Israeli blockade in southern Gaza leaves 1.2M Palestinians without waterThe southern Gaza city of Khan Younis warned that a week-long fuel shortage has left more than 1.2 million residents and displaced individuals in the area without access to clean water, amid ongoing Israeli strikes.The city government said: "This persistent fuel stoppage has disrupted essential services, including the operation of water wells and desalination plants.The city also raised concerns about the suspension of sewage treatment facilities, warning that untreated wastewater could flood the streets, exacerbating the risk of environmental and health disasters, and facilitating the spread of diseases and epidemics.) Iran calls envoy's meeting with Elon Musk 'American media's fabrication'Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi strongly denied The New York Times reported meeting between Tehran's United Nations envoy and US billionaire Elon Musk, saying the American media's fabrication “is a form of testing the waters to see if the ground for such a move exists.”"There was no permission from the leadership for such a meeting," Araqchi said, referring to Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, who has the final say in all matters of state.Araqchi added: "We are still waiting for the new US administration to clarify its policies, and based on that, we will adjust our own policies. Right now, it is neither the time for such meetings nor is it appropriate.") Türkiye rejects EU maritime spatial planning maps, calls them 'null, void'Türkiye has strongly criticised the European Union's maritime spatial planning, rejecting the maps of the Aegean and Mediterranean used in the initiative as "null and void" and emphasising its determination to protect its maritime rights.The Turkish Foreign Ministry underlined that Türkiye is actively monitoring the EU's actions, issuing necessary warnings, and taking all measures to safeguard its interests in the region.Ankara criticised the EU for overstepping its role, stating it has no authority to mediate maritime disputes between sovereign states and calling unilateral action on maritime jurisdictions "unacceptable.") TikTok parent ByteDance's valuation hits $300B amid US ban uncertaintyTikTok's Chinese parent company ByteDance is valuing itself at about $300 billion after a recent buyback offer, even as the tech giant's popular TikTok app faces the prospect of a looming ban in the US.The TikTok parent in recent days told investors it was looking to buy back shares at about $180 a share, the Wall Street Journal reports.ByteDance investors have viewed President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House as an overall positive for TikTok’s hopes in the US, as per the report.A law signed by US President Joe Biden on April 24 this year gives ByteDance until January 19, 2025 to sell TikTok or face a ban. *) Climate crisis responsible for 20 percent of dengue cases worldwideClimate crisis is responsible for nearly a fifth of the record number of dengue cases worldwide this year, US researchers said, seeking to shine a light on how rising temperatures are linked to dengue infections in 21 countries across Asia and the Americas.It has typically been confined to tropical and subtropical areas but rising temperatures have led to mosquitoes encroaching on new areas, taking dengue with them.The viral disease, which is transmitted via bites from infected mosquitoes, causes fever and body aches and can, in some cases, be deadly.The analysis estimated that at least 257 million people are currently living in areas where global heating could double the rate of dengue in the next 25 years.
) EU weighs suspension of political ties with IsraelEuropean Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell urges bold action, proposing a suspension of political dialogue with Israel and a ban on imports from illegal settlements. Citing Israel's disregard for international law in Gaza, Borrell calls for decisive measures, set for discussion at next week’s Foreign Affairs Council.Israel's war in Gaza — now in its 407th day — has killed at least 43,000 Palestinians and wounded over 103,000, with another 10,000 feared buried under debris.) Muslim Trump supporters criticise his pro-Israel cabinet picksMuslim Trump supporters voice dismay over his pro-Israel cabinet, labelling it "Zionist overdrive." Picks like Marco Rubio, Mike Huckabee and Elise Stefanik spark backlash among those who helped secure swing state victories.Leaders cite broken peace promises and a tilt toward neo-conservatism.Yet some defend Trump, emphasising his broader peace agenda amid Middle East turmoil.) Zelenskyy believes Trump can end Russia-Ukraine WarUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism that Donald Trump’s leadership could hasten the end of the Russia-Ukraine war.Trump, reiterating his "America First" stance, pledged to broker peace, calling for an end to the conflict.Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a just resolution, stressing Ukraine’s independence and firm stance in negotiations.) North Korean leader orders 'mass production' of attack dronesNorth Korea's Kim Jong-un has ordered the mass production of attack drones, escalating tensions in the region.These drones are designed to target both land and sea, raising concerns about potential attacks on South Korea and beyond.This move comes amid increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.Experts believe that North Korea may have acquired drone technology from Russia, which could have implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.*) Brazil takes the lead in global alliance to combat hungerBrazil has taken the lead in forming a global alliance to combat hunger and poverty. The initiative, launched ahead of the G20 summit, aims to lift 500 million people out of poverty by 2030. The alliance brings together wealthy nations, NGOs, and financial institutions to provide financial aid and expertise to countries in need.
) Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of war crimes in GazaHuman Rights Watch has accused Israel of war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Gaza. A new report details massive forced displacements and the widespread destruction of civilian homes and infrastructure to permanently displace many Palestinians. Over 90 percent of Gaza’s population — which is about 1.9 million people — has fled amid Israel’s relentless attacks, with tens of thousands killed, mostly women and children.) Democrats urge US sanctions on Israeli ministersNearly 90 Democratic lawmakers urge US President Joe Biden to sanction Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, accusing them of inciting anti-Palestinian violence in the occupied West Bank.The letter, citing 1,270 recorded attacks, highlights concerns over settlement expansion and destabilisation of the Palestinian Authority.Lawmakers insist Biden send a strong message on humanitarian grounds and oppose Israeli annexation plans.) UN mulls to boost Lebanon peacekeeping effortsThe United Nations is preparing to bolster its peacekeeping force UNIFIL in Lebanon to support the Lebanese army after a ceasefire with Israel.Although not enforcing a truce, UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix emphasised UNIFIL’s vital role.Diplomatic efforts hinge on UN resolution 1701, with hopes to end hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah near the Israel-Lebanon border.) Indian court outlaws demolition without due processIndia’s Supreme Court declared it “totally unconstitutional” to demolish homes without due process, issuing a nationwide prohibition against so-called “bulldozer justice.”Opposition parties hailed the verdict, citing it as a critical step toward ending the ruling party BJP’s oppression of Muslim communities.Key leaders demanded compensation for victims and hoped this ruling would curb collective punishment against marginalised groups.*) EU fines Meta $840 million for antitrust violationsThe European Commission has slapped Meta with an $840 million fine, accusing the tech giant of antitrust violations by bundling Facebook with Facebook Marketplace to stifle competition.Facebook’s owner Meta plans to appeal but will comply and swiftly develop a solution. This move follows a two-year investigation into anti-competitive practices by Meta in the EU market.
) Protests erupt in Paris over Zionist gala organised by far-right figuresProtests erupted in Paris against a far-right gala supporting Israel, aimed at raising funds for the Israeli military and featuring Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. The event, titled "Israel is Forever," instigated outrage amid heightened tensions from Israeli atrocities in Gaza and Lebanon. Demonstrations came ahead of a high-profile football match between France and Israel, prompting the deployment of over 4,000 police officers and 1,600 stadium staff. ) Death toll from Israeli strikes in Gaza 'safe zone' rises to 14Israeli air strikes on Gaza have killed at least 15 Palestinians, according to witnesses and medical sources. Eight people, including children, were killed when a house was hit in the al-Mawasi area, west of Khan Younis. Another person was killed in a strike near a tent encampment that had been marked as a "safe zone" by Israel. Five more civilians were killed in an air strike on the Al-Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza. ) Erdogan expresses hope for Türkiye-Syria relations amid regional concernsTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated hopes for reconciliation with Syria’s Bashar al Assad, expressing optimism about improving bilateral relations. Erdogan emphasised that normalising ties with Syria could promote peace and stability in the region. He also highlighted concerns over regional threats, particularly from Israel, and stressed Türkiye's commitment to Syria's territorial integrity. Erdogan reaffirmed that Syrian refugees do not threaten this integrity and underscored the importance of stabilising Syria to prevent regional instability. ) Demolition of private properties 'unconstitutional': India's top courtIndia's top court ruled that demolishing private properties without following legal procedures is "unconstitutional." It condemned the use of bulldozers to raze homes merely because someone is accused or convicted, stating that such actions resemble lawlessness. The court emphasised that authorities must issue a show-cause notice before any demolition and warned that violations could lead to contempt proceedings. The decision reinforces the need for due process in property demolitions and prevents arbitrary actions by the executive.*) Tehran and Moscow link bank card systems to counter sanctionsIranian bank cards can now be used in Russia as both countries have connected their banking systems, state TV reported. This move aims to bypass Western sanctions, especially after Iran was cut off from the SWIFT system in 2018. The sanction came following the US exit from the 2015 nuclear deal. The Iranian TV channel showed footage of an Iranian bank card being used at an ATM in Russia.
) New Israeli strikes kill at least seven Palestinians in southern GazaIn Gaza, at least seven Palestinians were killed, and several more were injured in recent air strikes by Israel. According to witnesses, the Israeli military targeted a roadside stall selling goods in Qizan Abu Rashwan, south of Khan Younis, leading to two fatalities and injuries to others.In a separate incident, a medical source reported that an air strike on a home in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza resulted in the killings of three Palestinians and injuries to ten others, most of them children.) Trump picks pro-settlement Mike Huckabee as US ambassador to Israel President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Mike Huckabee as his pick for US ambassador to Israel, signalling strong support for the Israeli government from his incoming administration. In a statement, Trump praised Huckabee’s career in public service and faith leadership. He added that Huckabee’s long-standing support for Israel is mirrored by the admiration many in Israel hold for him.) Germany sets February 23 for snap elections after Scholz coalition collapseGermany is gearing up for snap elections set for February 23, after an agreement between its major political parties. This decision follows the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party coalition last week. Parliamentary leader Rolf Muetzenich of Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) shared that Scholz will seek a confidence vote on December 16, setting up a path toward the February election. The decision was part of a compromise worked out with the Christian Democrats (CDU) and their Bavarian allies, the CSU.) Car ramming in southern China kills, injures dozens in rare violent incidentIn a rare and tragic incident, 35 people were killed and 43 injured when a car drove into a crowd around a sports centre in Zhuhai, southern China, while people were out exercising. Initial police reports only mentioned injuries, but details of the attack and videos were quickly removed from social media. By Tuesday, police announced that the incident was a “serious and vicious attack” and confirmed the death toll at 35. The injuries suffered by the 43 wounded are not currently life-threatening.*) Jury orders US contractor to pay $42M for torture of Iraqis at Abu GhraibA federal jury has found CACI International, a US defence contractor, liable for its involvement in torture at Iraq’s Abu Ghraib prison in 2003-2004. The verdict, delivered Tuesday, holds the Virginia-based company accountable and orders it to pay $42 million in damages, awarding each of the three plaintiffs $14 million. This decision marks the first time a civilian contractor has been held legally responsible for torture at the notorious prison, where the three plaintiffs testified about being subjected to beatings, sexual abuse, forced nudity and other forms of brutal treatment.
) Israel strike kills 10 people in designated Gaza ‘safe zone’In southern Gaza’s Khan Younis, an Israeli air strike killed at least 10 Palestinians and left many others injured. The strike hit a rest area near tents where displaced families had gathered, thinking it was safe.This specific area, in the Al Mawasi neighbourhood, had actually been marked by the Israeli military as a “safe zone”. Many displaced families were using the “Happy Time” rest stop just outside the southern gate of the Asdaa Resort. According to witnesses, people frequently went there for a moment of respite and to access the internet — just trying to find some normalcy amid the war.) Smotrich says 2025 is year Israel will impose ‘sovereignty’ on West BankIsrael’s Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, has now said that by 2025, Israel will fully assert its sovereignty over the occupied West Bank, effectively ruling out any chance of a Palestinian state — a stance that defies international law, which considers the West Bank to be occupied Palestinian land.During a Religious Zionism Party meeting, Smotrich also congratulated Donald Trump on his recent US presidential win. For Smotrich, Trump’s victory is an opportunity to move forward on Israeli interests. He recalled that in Trump’s previous term, he took bold steps: moving the US embassy to Jerusalem, recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, affirming Israeli control over the Golan Heights, and legitimising settlements in the West Bank.) Paris bans Palestinian flags at France-Israel football matchFrench authorities have banned Palestinian flags at the upcoming France-Israel football match on Thursday, following unrest seen at a Netherlands match last week. Laurent Nunez, Paris’s prefect, said that “only French and Israeli flags will be allowed, along with messages cheering on the teams”.Security will be tight at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, a suburb north of Paris. Fans can expect not one, but two security screenings and ID checks around the stadium. Anyone refusing to cooperate won’t be allowed in.) Türkiye’s zero waste project will thrive through global cooperation: AltunTürkiye’s Zero Waste Project, a leading environmental initiative, will only succeed through strong international partnerships, according to Fahrettin Altun, Türkiye’s head of Communications.Speaking via video at the COP29 UN climate conference in Azerbaijan, Altun stressed that Türkiye’s Zero Waste Project is a key example of the country’s dedication to environmental leadership. He said that “Türkiye is at the forefront of climate diplomacy”.*) Philippines braces for fifth cyclone in under one monthThe Philippines is once again preparing for severe weather, with warnings issued for yet another storm — the fifth in under a month — now closing in on the islands.Tropical Storm Usagi is expected to hit the country’s northeast coast in just two days, according to the National Weather Agency. This comes right after Typhoon Toraji forced thousands to evacuate. In fact, the government has already evacuated over 32,000 people in the north as a precaution.This has been a devastating stretch for the Philippines, which has been battered by a relentless sequence of storms: Severe Tropical Storm Trami, Typhoon Yinxing, Super Typhoon Kong-rey, and now Usagi — all of which have collectively claimed at least 159 lives.
) Israeli air strike on tent in Gaza kill two members of a familyIn Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp, an Israeli air strike has killed a man and his wife and left two children injured, a medical source said.Witnesses told Anadolu news agency the air strike hit a tent in the Sawarha area of the camp, reducing it to rubble and damaging several nearby tents as well.Two children were also wounded in the air strikes, according to Al-Awda hospital.) Israel’s Netanyahu claims responsibility for deadly pager blasts in Lebanon Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has now admitted he authorised a deadly September attack on communication devices in Lebanon, marking the first time Israel has openly claimed responsibility. Hezbollah had earlier pointed fingers at Israel for the blasts, which dealt a serious blow to the group and prompted vows of retaliation. The attacks involved small handheld devices, used by Hezbollah members, that exploded over two consecutive days in supermarkets, on streets and even at funerals in mid-September. The blasts killed nearly 40 people and injured close to 3,000, just before Israel ramped up its military campaign in Lebanon.) Biden plans to urge Trump to keep supporting UkraineUS National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has said President Joe Biden’s top priority during his meeting with President-elect Donald Trump will be to emphasise the importance of a smooth transfer of power. But Biden also wants to talk about issues in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.Sullivan told CBS News that President Biden will have a chance over the next 70 days to make his case to Congress and the incoming administration that the US cannot afford to abandon Ukraine.He added that leaving Ukraine now would mean more instability in Europe. Sullivan’s remarks come as Russia and Ukraine are engaging in record drone attacks, with around 200 drones exchanged between them.) Ex-PM’s supporters in Bangladesh protest using Trump placards as ‘shields’Supporters of Bangladesh's ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina were arrested after following her orders to protest bearing placards of Donald Trump, police have said, accusing them of trying to undermine relations with Washington.Police arrested 10 protesters they described as “conspirators” and accused them of attempting to destabilise the South Asian country of around 170 million people.*) Dutch police crackdown on pro-Palestine demonstration, detain protestersIn Amsterdam, Dutch police detained multiple pro-Palestine protesters after tensions flared up, reportedly due to provocations by Israeli hooligans.The demonstrators had gathered to push back against the media’s portrayal of recent events as “anti-Semitic” and to protest the criticism aimed at pro-Palestine supporters after the Ajax-Maccabi Tel Aviv football match.Police broke up the crowd with batons, injuring several people in the process.Authorities in Amsterdam had previously put a three-day ban on public demonstrations starting from Friday.
) Israel kills 12 paramedics and civil defence volunteers in LebanonIsrael has killed 12 paramedics and civil defence volunteers and wounded three others in its strikes on several towns in the Tyre district in southern Lebanon.The Lebanese Health Ministry said warplanes targeted the town of Deir Qanoun in the Tyre district, killing six members of the Islamic Scouts — volunteers in emergency medical and civil defense operations — and a paramedic from the Islamic Health Association — a charity organisation.Strikes on Deir Qanoun also killed a civilian and wounded 12 others.) Biden to meet Trump at White House ahead of historic returnPresident Joe Biden will host President-elect Donald Trump for a traditional post election meeting in the Oval Office on Wednesday, the White House said.Such a meeting is customary between the outgoing president and the incoming president, and is meant partly to mark the start of a peaceful transfer of power under America's democracy.In a speech Thursday, Biden said he had assured Trump "that I would direct my entire administration to work with his team to ensure a peaceful and orderly transition. That's what the American people deserve.") Floods in South Sudan affect 1.4 million, displace 379,000: UNDevastating flooding in South Sudan is affecting around 1.4 million people, with more than 379,000 displaced, according to a United Nations update that warned about an upsurge in malaria.Aid agencies have said that the world's youngest country, highly vulnerable to climate change, is in the grip of its worst flooding in decades, mainly in the north.A surge in malaria has been reported in several states, it said, "overwhelming the health system and exacerbating the situation and impact in flood-hit areas".) French rail unions threaten to strike ahead of ChristmasTrade unions at France's railway operator SNCF have called for an indefinite strike from next month that could disrupt train services during the upcoming Christmas holidays.The unions are demanding a moratorium on dismantling Fret SNCF, the freight division of the national rail operator, and protesting against the terms and conditions for opening up regional lines to competition.The union said the action would begin on December 11, reiterating their call for shorter strike action from November 20 to November 22.*) Türkiye’s first lady demands gender balance, fairness in tech sectorTürkiye’s First Lady Emine Erdogan has emphasised the critical role of women in society and the need for a justice-centred approach to technology, at the 6th International Women and Justice Summit in Istanbul on Friday.Erdogan stressed that “women are not only half of a gender but half of humanity,” and expressed hope that the summit would open “new doors of hope” for women worldwide.The reception, organised by Türkiye's Women and Democracy Association (KADEM) under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Women,” highlighted the impact of AI on various sectors, including healthcare, education, and business.Erdogan referred to research findings on how AI, developed without ethical oversight, can deepen social injustices, and underlined that women are particularly vulnerable to AI’s adverse effects.
) Israel's genocidal war on besieged Gaza enters its 400th daySince October 7, 2023, Israel has killed more than 43,500 Palestinians, 70 percent of them women and children, and wounded over 102,700 others, according to local health authorities.Analysts say the estimate is conservative and the actual death toll could be around or beyond 200,000, as thousands of Palestinians remain missing or buried under the debris of bombed homes and shops. Another 10,000 have been abducted and jailed at Israeli torture sites.) Stein and Trump gain surprising support among Muslim votersAmerican Muslim voters overwhelmingly backed Green Party's candidate Jill Stein in the 2024 presidential election, with 53.2 percent casting ballots in her favour, according to a new survey.In Michigan, Stein received even stronger support, with 59 percent of 502 Muslim respondents backing her, compared to 22 percent for Trump and 14 percent for Harris, according to the poll.Frustration over the Biden administration's Gaza policy led to a "sharp drop" in Muslim support for Harris compared to Biden's 2020 Muslim voter base, according to CAIR's National Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw.) US, Canada groups urge leaders to condemn anti-Arab violence in AmsterdamTwo prominent Muslim groups have criticised North American leaders and media for ignoring attacks and anti-Arab violence by Maccabi Tel-Aviv fans during a Europa League match."It has been deeply distressing and disturbing to witness the violence that took place in Amsterdam around the Europa League match last night," The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) wrote on X, denouncing all forms of intimidation.The Muslim group urged Canadian leaders to address the incidents directly."If Canadian leaders choose to weigh in on this issue, they must condemn the well-documented attacks on Arabs in Amsterdam," the statement says.) 2024 to be the hottest year since industrial revolutionScientists say that 2024 might go down in history as the hottest since humans began burning fossil fuels.According to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), the global average temperature is expected to exceed the critical 1.5C threshold above pre-industrial levels. This would mark a historic milestone, underscoring the dramatic impact of greenhouse gas emissions and climate crisis.The C3S Monthly Climate Bulletin for October highlights that human activities have created an elevated temperature baseline.An El Nino event also played a role in this year’s heating but the climate’s complexity is influenced by multiple factors beyond greenhouse gases alone, such as solar radiation, volcanic eruptions, aerosols, and natural climate variability, according to the scientists.*) Turkish first lady attends event on Ottoman sufi poet, heritage in HungaryTürkiye's first lady has attended a special programme in Budapest promoting a book on a 14th-century Ottoman sufi poet and the empire's rich heritage in Hungary.Erdogan visited the tomb of Ottoman Dervish poet Gul Baba — also known as Jafer, or the "Father of Roses" in Hungary — which was restored in 2018 in a collaboration between the Hungarian government and TIKA, the Turkish state aid agency."I am happy to gather around the legacy of Gul Baba, who came from Anatolia and was laid to rest in this land, on the 100th anniversary of the Türkiye-Hungary Friendship Treaty” she says."It is truly exciting that six years after TIKA's restoration efforts and the establishment of the cultural centre at the Gul Baba Tomb, this spiritual heritage is now being crowned with a new book," Erdogan wrote in the guestbook at the Gul Baba Tomb.
) Israel kills 48 in Gaza, including 11 cousins of journalistIsrael continues its lethal invasion of Gaza.At least 48 Palestinians have been killed in the last 24 hours across Beit Lahia, Jabalia, Rafah, Nuseirat, and other residential areas.Among the victims, 14 displaced Palestinians sheltering in a former school were killed in Al-Shati camp.Local journalist Hossam Shabat said he has lost 11 family members.) Biden pledges peaceful transition after Trump’s victoryUS outgoing President Joe Biden has pledged a peaceful transition on January 20 after Republican Donald Trump’s election victory.Biden urged unity, calling for Americans to “bring down the temperature” and trust in the integrity of the electoral system.In a heartfelt Rose Garden address, he defended the election's integrity, calling it “honest and transparent.”) Russia calls for peace talks as it gains ground in UkraineIn the wake of Donald Trump’s election as US president, Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu declared that the West must accept Russia’s progress in Ukraine and pursue peace talks.Shoigu accused the West of attempting to defeat Russia through Ukraine, urging negotiations as Moscow’s forces gain ground.Trump in his campaign said that he could bring peace to Ukraine within 24 hours. However, his exact strategy remains unclear.) Erdogan criticises Türkiye’s EU delay, calls for security inclusionTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, at the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, has called for Türkiye’s full inclusion in EU defence efforts, stressing it as vital for European security.Criticising delays in Türkiye’s EU accession, he urged Europe for action against terrorism and condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza.Erdogan further pushed for diplomacy in the Ukraine crisis and met with key EU leaders.*) Big food companies sell less healthy products in poor countriesA new report has revealed that major food and beverage companies are selling less nutritious products in low-income countries compared to wealthier nations.This trend, highlighted by the Access to Nutrition Initiative, raised concerns about rising obesity rates in developing countries.While some companies claim to be improving their offerings, the report suggests significant disparities in the quality of products sold to different markets.
) Donald Trump defeats Kamala Harris to become the 47th US presidentFormer US president Donald Trump defeated his rival Kamala Harris and became the 47th president of the country.In his victory speech, he pledged to “heal” the country, promising secure borders, prosperity and a “golden age of America.”Speaking to ecstatic supporters, Trump, joined by Vice President nominee JD Vance, hailed GOP wins and vowed to fight for Americans.Separately, Republicans also secured the majority in the Senate.) Vice President Harris commits to a peaceful transfer of power in speechVice President Kamala Harris delivered a defiant concession speech, vowing a peaceful transition of power after Trump won the US presidential election.Harris told supporters in a speech in Washington to "not despair," urging them to "keep fighting" after her loss.Separately, US President Joe Biden will address the nation and pay tribute to Harris for her "courage" and "integrity.") US stocks soar as Trump secures a second term in White HouseWall Street surged to record highs as Donald Trump made a stunning return to the White House.The Dow Jones soared 1,250 points, with the S&P 500 nearing the 6,000 mark.Investors anticipate tax cuts and deregulation, while Treasury yields, bitcoin and the dollar also hit new highs.Market eyes now turn to the Federal Reserve’s upcoming rate discussion.) Erdogan and Trump discuss cooperation on Türkiye-US ties, global issuesTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan congratulated US President-elect Donald Trump on his election victory in a phone call.Erdogan expressed his hopes for strengthened cooperation between Türkiye and the United States in the coming term.Earlier in a message on X, Erdogan expressed hopes for progress on global issues like Palestine and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.He stressed the importance of collaboration for fairer world order and peace, wishing prosperity for both nations and humanity.*) South Africa closes main border with Mozambique over election protest violenceSouth Africa temporarily shuts its main border with Mozambique amid escalating protests over Mozambique's disputed election.At least 18 people have died as opposition supporters challenge Frelimo’s contested win.Security forces have responded with force, restricting internet access and threatening army deployment.Tensions rise as Mozambique's opposition plans a massive march on capital Maputo.
) Vote counting is underway to decide next US presidentDemocratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican former President Donald Trump are locked in a close battle for the White House, as polls gradually close and officials count votes across the United States.The magic number to win the presidency is 270 electoral votes. Observers expect the hotly contested race for the White House to come down to a handful of key battleground states.Projections from various outlets, citing counted votes, show Trump leading his rival, Kamala Harris.Voters are also deciding which party will control the House and Senate.) Stay in line: Trump urges Republicans to hold ground Former President Donald Trump has urged Republican voters to "stay in line" in a 13-second clip posted across his social media platforms.“We’re doing really well,” Trump reassured, encouraging supporters to hold their ground at the polls.Separately, billionaire Elon Musk also shared a message on the social media platform X, implying a Republican win in the elections, saying, "Game, set, and match.") Americans chose between democracy and illegal migration, survey showsIn the race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, voters' motivations reflect a deep national divide.An AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of more than 110,000 voters nationwide, reveals Harris supporters prioritised the future of democracy, influenced by her messaging on Trump’s threats to democracy.Meanwhile, Trump voters focused on immigration and inflation, drawn to his promises of economic revival.) Israel's Netanyahu fires Defence Minister GallantIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Defence Minister Yoav Gallant due to disagreement over the Gaza invasion.Israel Katz steps in as the new Defence Minister, while Gideon Sa’ar takes over as Foreign Minister. Protests erupted in Tel Aviv, with hundreds rallying against Gallant’s ouster, expressing frustration with Netanyahu’s decisions.*) Boeing workers end seven-week strike, ratify new dealStriking Boeing workers have voted to accept the company’s latest contract, ending a seven-week walkout.The new deal includes a 38 percent wage hike, a $12,000 signing bonus, and increased tax benefits contributions. While some 33,000 workers will return, reactions remain mixed, with some disappointed by the absence of a restored pension plan.
) Trump, Harris bid their final push as US election loomsIn the final sprint before election day, US Vice President Kamala Harris rallies Pennsylvania, while Donald Trump fires up crowds in multiple states. Harris has urged voters to recognise their power, wrapping up her day with star-studded support in Philadelphia. Trump lamented the election as "the most important political event" in US history, hoping for a historic comeback. Some 77 million have already cast early votes.) Israel makes UNRWA ban official despite global protestsIsrael has notified the UN it is cancelling its agreement with UNRWA, sparking global condemnation. The decision follows an overwhelming Knesset vote to ban the agency’s activities in Palestinian territories. Western allies, including the United Kingdom and France, voiced concern, while the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned of “devastating consequences” for Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.) Countries urge UNSC to stop arms sales to IsraelA coalition of 54 countries and organisations has urged the UN Security Council to take swift action to halt arms transfers to Israel amid its devastating Gaza invasion. The appeal cites concerns over violations of international law and references a recent UN resolution calling for restrictions on arms that could be used in occupied Palestinian territories.) Canada, India condemn Brampton Temple clashes amid tense tiesIndia and Canada have condemned violence at a Hindu temple in Brampton amid rising diplomatic tensions. Social media videos showed clashes involving flagpoles and punches. The fighting followed Canada's expulsion of Indian diplomats over the killing of a Sikh separatist leader. Both Prime Ministers, Narendra Modi and Justin Trudeau, strongly denounced the violence, while local police continued their investigation.*) Women, children among 24 dead in Comoros boat tragedyAt least 25 people drowned after traffickers capsized their boat near the Comoros Islands, the UN's migration agency confirmed on Monday. The tragedy, which left only five survivors, marks the third such disaster in recent months. The deadly route to the French territory of Mayotte has claimed thousands of lives since 2011, according to the International Organization of Migration.
) Israeli strikes hit Gaza hospitals, many Palestinians killedHeavy bombardment from Israeli forces early Monday hit Gaza hard, killing many Palestinians and leaving countless others injured. The scene was devastating, with widespread destruction across several neighbourhoods.According to Wafa news agency, Israeli artillery strikes took a heavy toll — lives lost, people hurt, and some still trapped under rubble. Rescue teams are scrambling to find survivors, but no official numbers have been released yet.Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia also came under fire — the nursery was damaged, and a child was injured. And at the Indonesian Hospital, a drone strike sent patients and staff into a panic, creating a chaotic and terrifying scene.) Swiss intelligence exposes PKK's secret operations Switzerland’s intelligence service has dropped a bombshell — the PKK, a group labelled as a terrorist organisation by Türkiye, the US and the EU, has been running secret operations right under their noses. According to a fresh report from Switzerland’s Federal Intelligence Service, or FIS, the PKK has been using Swiss soil to raise money, spread its propaganda and even run terrorist training camps. The PKK has been in a violent campaign against Türkiye for 40 years, leading to over 40,000 deaths, including civilians.The FIS report makes it clear: the PKK is active within Switzerland, recruiting young Kurdish refugees and preparing them for actions against the Turkish military.) UN warns of ‘dangerous escalation’ over potential N Korean troops in RussiaUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is raising the alarm over reports that North Korean troops may have joined Russia, possibly heading toward the battlefields in Ukraine. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, conveyed his concern on Sunday, saying Guterres is “very concerned” about reports of North Korean forces potentially being deployed to Ukraine’s conflict zone.According to US intelligence, North Korean troops have shown up around Russia’s Kursk border region. Interestingly, neither North Korea nor Russia has denied these reports.) Maia Sandu declares victory in Moldova’s presidential runoff electionMoldova’s pro-EU President Maia Sandu declared a win on Sunday in the country’s tense presidential runoff, with almost all votes counted. She held a strong lead with 54 percent, defeating her pro-Russian rival, Alexandr Stoianoglo.Sandu, a former World Bank economist, declared in her victory speech that “Moldovans have given a lesson in democracy, worthy of history books”.Sandu’s win is being seen as a huge boost for Moldova’s pro-Western government and her vision of closer ties with Europe, steering Moldova one step closer to the EU.*) Chinese crew returns after 6-month mission on Tiangong space stationAfter six months aboard China’s Tiangong space station, the Shenzhou 18 crew has made a safe return.The spacecraft’s return capsule touched down in northern China on Sunday, wrapping up an intense mission in space.The China Manned Space Agency confirmed that its astronauts landed at the Dongfeng site in Inner Mongolia. Since their launch on April 25, they have been working and living aboard the Tiangong.
) Hamas calls Gaza truce proposals with Israel a 'smokescreen'Palestinian resistance group Hamas has called Gaza ceasefire proposals a “smokescreen" as they do not include an end to the Israeli war or withdrawal from the enclave.Senior Hamas member Izzat al-Rishq said ceasefire proposals floated in recent days don’t include an end to the Israeli assault, withdrawal from Gaza, or the return of displaced Palestinians to their areas.He added that Hamas is positively engaged with any proposals and ideas that ensure the cessation of aggression and the withdrawal of the occupation forces from Gaza.) Israel kills 71 in Lebanon as death toll nears 3,000Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the Health Ministry has said Israeli air strikes killed at least 71 people and wounded 169 others. The new fatalities brought the number of people killed in Israeli attacks in the country since October 2023 to 2,968, while 13,319 others were wounded.This week Israel intensified its strikes in the eastern Lebanese region of Baalbek and displaced thousands more.) Israel hinders polio vaccination campaign in northern GazaThe emergency polio vaccination campaign in Gaza entered its second phase though areas in northern Gaza, experiencing ongoing Israeli military offensives and a humanitarian crisis, were excluded from the campaign.The initial phase of the campaign began two months ago, however, offensives in the north delayed the rollout, leading to a partial implementation.In a statement, the Palestinian Health Ministry confirmed that northern Gaza could not proceed with the second phase due to the ongoing hostilities, and plans for the next round of vaccinations in the north remain postponed.) Supporters of Bolivia's ex-leader Morales detain 200 soldiersSupporters of former Bolivian president Evo Morales have taken at least 200 soldiers, hostage. Three military units in Chapare province were assaulted by irregular groups,The hostage situation marks a dramatic escalation in their standoff with the state after Morales blamed the current President for attempting to assassinate him earlier this week. The hostage situation comes nearly three weeks after backers of Morales the country's first Indigenous leader began blocking roads to prevent his arrest on what he calls trumped-up charges aimed at thwarting his political comeback.*) Hundreds of media members accuse BBC of biased Gaza coverageThe BBC has been accused by more than 100 of its staffers of providing Israel favourable coverage in its reporting on the war against Gaza, calling on the broadcaster to "recommit to fairness, accuracy, and impartiality."The letter sent to BBC Director General Tim Davie was signed by more than 230 media industry members, including 101 anonymous BBC staff, journalists from other media organisations, historians, actors, academics and politicians. It criticised the news outlet for failing its editorial standards by lacking "consistently fair and accurate evidence-based journalism in its coverage of Gaza."
) Israel 'not serious' about Gaza ceasefire — HamasPalestinian resistance group Hamas has said that Israel does not take Gaza ceasefire negotiations seriously.A senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan said Israel does not offer any genuine proposals and "is definitively not serious in the (ceasefire) negotiations."He added that Hamas would proceed without hesitation with any proposal that meets people's demands and ends their suffering, and completely halts the Israeli aggression, not temporarily) Single surgeon for the only hospital in northern Gaza Meanwhile, the only Hospital in northern Gaza operates with limited capabilities and a single surgeon, in light of the deadly Israeli incursion for nearly one month.The al-Awda Hospital is the only hospital in northern Gaza that has a doctor specialising in general surgery. At times, many wounded people require urgent medical interventions amid low and limited medical capabilities.) Buffer zone ordered around a Sikh place of worship in Canada A Vancouver judge has ordered a buffer zone around a Sikh temple over fears of violence.The safe zone was requested by Ross Street Gurdwara officials to keep apart Sikh separatists advocating for an independent state of Khalistan and visiting Indian officials.The court order follows Canadian police investigations that found the Indian government allegedly has been involved in extreme violence on Canadian soil, including the assassination of a Canadian Sikh in 2023.) Ukraine needs to use long-range missiles against N.Korean troops: ZelenskyyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Ukraine needed permission from its allies to fire long-range missiles into Russia in the face of a North Korean troops deployment there.He said that at every site where Russia is amassing these North Korean soldiers on its territory Ukraine could strike preventively only if they had the capability. He accused Kiev's allies of "just waiting for the North Korean military to start striking at Ukrainians" instead of providing "the long-range capability that is so necessary".*) China uses Meta to develop military AIAccording to academic papers and analysts, top Chinese research institutions linked to the People's Liberation Army have used Meta's publicly available Llama model to develop an AI tool for potential military applications,.Academic papers have detailed how China had used an early version of Meta's Llama as a base for what it calls "ChatBIT".The researchers used an earlier Llama 2 13B large language model incorporating their parameters to construct a military-focused AI tool to gather and process intelligence and offer accurate and reliable information for operational decision-making.
) Israel kills 26 Palestinians in air strikes across GazaIsrael continues with its deadly strikes on besieged Gaza. At least 26 Palestinians were killed and 47 wounded in Israeli air strikes on besieged Gaza.At least 16 Palestinians were killed and 30 wounded, including children, in strikes that targeted two houses north of the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. Horrific and heart-wrenching experiences continue to haunt Palestinians in Gaza. In one such incident, a Palestinian ambulance worker made a horrific discovery when the corpse on the stretcher that he was carrying turned out to be his mother, killed by an Israeli air strike in central besieged Gaza.) Arab League calls for UN resolution against Israel's UNRWA banMeanwhile, the Arab League called for the passage of a UN resolution opposing Israel's move to ban the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in the country.The meeting demanded that the representatives of Arab countries in New York coordinate with the ambassadors and representatives of friendly countries and the UN Secretariat to request a special session of the UN General Assembly, as it is the body that issued the decision to establish UNRWA, to discuss the repercussions of this serious Israeli law and to issue a UN resolution rejecting this illegal Israeli measure.However, Israel continued with its defiance and demolished the office of the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) in the Nur Shams refugee camp in the occupied West Bank.) North Korea launches a new ballistic missile North Korea has launched a new intercontinental ballistic missile in its first test in almost a year of a weapon designed to threaten the US mainland and occurring days ahead of the US election.North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered the missile test and was at the launch site calling the launch “an appropriate military action” to show North Korea’s ''resolve to respond to its enemies’ moves'' that have threatened the North’s safety.In response to this, South Korea announced new export controls on materials needed to produce solid-fuel missiles to restrict North Korea's ballistic missile development. ) Canada labels India as a cyber threat According to a report, a cyber defence agency charged with keeping foreign actors from infiltrating Canada’s computer networks identified India as a cyber threat for the first time. According to its National Cyber Threat Assessment report the Indian state-sponsored cyber threat actors are likely to conduct cyber threat activity against Government of Canada networks for espionage. The report also said that as a breakdown in Canada-India relations continues, India will step up its cyber threats after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau linked New Delhi to serious crimes against Sikh Canadians. *) EU slaps $502M fine on the world's largest generic drugmaker TevaThe EU has slapped the world's largest generic drugmaker Teva with a $502 million fine for "abusing its dominant position" to impede competition for its blockbuster multiple sclerosis medicine.The Israeli company said it would appeal against the EU's fine.The European Commission said that it found Teva artificially extended the patent protection of its drug Copaxone and "systematically spread misleading information about a competing product to hinder its market entry and uptake.
) Israel took institutions protecting peace, human rights hostage — ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan criticised Israel, saying it has taken "hostage" all institutions meant to uphold peace, human rights, and democracy. Speaking in Ankara, Erdogan accused Israel of blinding global structures like the UN Security Council with “Zionist delusions.”Erdogan expressed disappointment over the lack of response from the Islamic world regarding Gaza, saying, “We couldn’t prevent 50,000 of our brothers and sisters from getting torn apart in the killing machine of the Zionist regime.” He condemned the global silence on Gaza as “shameful” for humanity, pointing to worsening conditions under intense bombardment.) Lebanon PM hopes for ceasefire with Israel in 'coming hours or days'Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced efforts to secure a ceasefire in Israel’s war on Lebanon “within hours or days,” expressing cautious optimism in an interview with Al Jadeed.In related developments, Israel’s public broadcaster KAN shared a draft ceasefire proposal, suggesting both nations would adhere to UN Resolutions 1701 and 1559.) Devastating floods in Spain's Valencia region kill dozensSpain braced for further casualties on Wednesday as the death toll reached 95 in flash floods that swept through towns, upended vehicles, and disrupted transport. Rescuers expect to recover more bodies in what is now Spain's deadliest flood in over 50 years, with three days of national mourning starting on Thursday.Heavy rain and winds have battered Spain since early this week, with some areas experiencing nearly a year's rainfall in hours due to a storm over the Mediterranean.) Ukraine, Russia in talks on halting strikes on energy facilities: reportUkraine and Russia have reportedly started preliminary talks to pause air strikes on each other's energy infrastructure, according to the Financial Times, which cited sources including senior Ukrainian officials. The discussions aim to revive negotiations mediated by Qatar that nearly reached an agreement in August.Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the report, claiming there was widespread fake news, even in what he called "the most reputable media."*) 4,000-year-old ancient oasis town discovered in Saudi ArabiaArchaeologists have uncovered a 4,000-year-old fortified town in an oasis in Saudi Arabia, offering insights into the shift from nomadic to urban life in the region. The ancient town, named al-Natah, lay hidden beneath the fertile Khaybar oasis in the Arabian Peninsula's northwest.Led by French archaeologist Guillaume Charloux, the research team found a 14.5-kilometre-long wall around the town.
) UN warns of dire Middle East situation as Israel escalates its war on GazaThe United Nations’ Middle East peace process coordinator, Tor Wennesland, warned the international community about a severe escalation in the Middle East, describing the situation as being at the "most dangerous juncture in decades."Speaking to the UN Security Council, Wennesland highlighted that ongoing Israeli violence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and shows no signs of stopping.Wennesland specifically addressed a deadly Israeli air strike in Beit Lahiya on Monday that killed or left missing at least 90 Palestinians, including 25 children.) Healthcare system in northern Gaza collapses as Israeli invasion continuesThe healthcare system in northern Gaza has collapsed amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes, according to Hussam Abu Safiya, Director of Kamal Adwan Hospital. In an urgent statement, Abu Safiya warned that all injured individuals brought to the hospital are succumbing to their wounds due to a severe lack of medical resources.He pleaded for international assistance to allow ambulances into the blockaded area to evacuate victims of the attacks, noting that currently, not a single ambulance is operational in northern Gaza.) Palestine weighs bringing Israel’s UNRWA ban before UNSCThe Palestinian presidency has announced plans for diplomatic measures following the Israeli Knesset's approval of laws prohibiting the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in occupied territories.According to the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, the presidency will urgently engage with countries hosting Palestinian refugees, exploring options to present the issue before the UN Security Council and General Assembly.The presidency emphasised that UNRWA's presence is crucial for addressing the Palestinian issue in line with international law and legitimacy.) Sudan conflict: UN report accuses RSF of sexual violence, forced captivityA UN fact-finding mission has reported that Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias have committed widespread sexual violence against civilians, including abduction of women as sex slaves, throughout Sudan's ongoing 18-month conflict. Victims, ranging in age from eight to 75, have been targeted in what the report describes as a strategy to terrorise and punish communities with perceived links to opposition forces.Mission chair Mohamed Chande Othman called the scale of sexual violence "staggering" in an 80-page report based on interviews with victims, families, and witnesses.*) EU slaps extra tariffs on Chinese-built EVs, risking Beijing retaliationThe European Union announced it will impose additional tariffs on Chinese-built electric vehicles, reaching up to 45.3 percent, following a year-long anti-subsidy investigation that has intensified trade tensions with Beijing. The new tariffs will vary by manufacturer, with Tesla facing an additional 7.8 percent and China’s SAIC 35.3 percent, on top of the EU’s standard 10 percent car import duty.The decision, formally approved by the European Commission on Tuesday, will be published in the EU's Official Journal by Wednesday and will take effect the next day.
) South Africa files 'evidence' of Israel's Gaza 'genocide' with ICJSouth Africa has filed "evidence of a genocide" committed by Israel in Gaza with the International Court of Justice. The evidence shows how the government of Israel has violated the genocide convention by promoting the destruction of Palestinians living in Gaza.It supplements facts and arguments in South Africa's ongoing genocide case against Israel.The parties to the case have already argued that Israel's actions such as using starvation as a weapon of war, and depopulating Gaza through mass killings and forced displacement of Palestinians amount to genocide. ) Israel bombs eastern Lebanon, kills 60 peopleMeanwhile, Israel continues to bomb Lebanon as the death toll from Israeli strikes on Lebanese villages in eastern Lebanon's city of Baalbek has risen to at least 60. Israel has already blocked the only route for the displaced families fleeing from a crossing from Lebanon into Syria. The land crossing on Lebanon's northeastern border, known as Jousieh on the Syrian side, connects to Qusayr in Syria's Homs province.It was put out of service last Friday when the Israeli strike created a large crater that blocked vehicle traffic.) Massacre of a massacre: Thailand's Tak Bai Muslim victims denied justiceA court in southern Thailand dropped a case against former state security personnel and officials over the killing of 85 Muslim protesters in 2004. Families of the victims of what is known as the Tak Bai massacre in April accused seven soldiers and government officials of murder, attempted murder and unlawful detention.The court however said that while there was enough evidence for an indictment, the case was unable to proceed as no suspects were arrested and brought to the court. As a result, the 20-year statute of limitations expired on Friday.) Israel bans UNRWA in occupied territoriesIsrael’s Knesset has passed two bills aimed at ending the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) across the occupied West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem, drawing increasing international concern.The UN expressed "profound concern" over the Israeli parliament's bills. The bill bans the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees, from conducting “any activity” or providing any service inside Israel. The UN Secretary-General wrote to the Prime Minister of Israel, expressing his profound concern about those bills and their impact.*) US finalises curbs on investing in Chinese techThe Biden administration has said it is finalising rules that will limit US investments in artificial intelligence and other technology sectors in China.The rules will apply to semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information technologies and certain AI systems and cover technologies like cutting-edge code-breaking computer systems or next-generation fighter jets.
) South Africa files 'evidence' of Israel's Gaza 'genocide' with ICJSouth Africa has filed "evidence of a genocide" committed by Israel in Gaza with the International Court of Justice. The evidence shows how the government of Israel has violated the genocide convention by promoting the destruction of Palestinians living in Gaza.It supplements facts and arguments in South Africa's ongoing genocide case against Israel.The parties to the case have already argued that Israel's actions such as using starvation as a weapon of war, and depopulating Gaza through mass killings and forced displacement of Palestinians amount to genocide. ) Israel bombs eastern Lebanon, kills 60 peopleMeanwhile, Israel continues to bomb Lebanon as the death toll from Israeli strikes on Lebanese villages in eastern Lebanon's city of Baalbek has risen to at least 60. Israel has already blocked the only route for the displaced families fleeing from a crossing from Lebanon into Syria. The land crossing on Lebanon's northeastern border, known as Jousieh on the Syrian side, connects to Qusayr in Syria's Homs province.It was put out of service last Friday when the Israeli strike created a large crater that blocked vehicle traffic.) Massacre of a massacre: Thailand's Tak Bai Muslim victims denied justiceA court in southern Thailand dropped a case against former state security personnel and officials over the killing of 85 Muslim protesters in 2004. Families of the victims of what is known as the Tak Bai massacre in April accused seven soldiers and government officials of murder, attempted murder and unlawful detention.The court however said that while there was enough evidence for an indictment, the case was unable to proceed as no suspects were arrested and brought to the court. As a result, the 20-year statute of limitations expired on Friday.) Israel bans UNRWA in occupied territoriesIsrael’s Knesset has passed two bills aimed at ending the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) across the occupied West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem, drawing increasing international concern.The UN expressed "profound concern" over the Israeli parliament's bills. The bill bans the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees, from conducting “any activity” or providing any service inside Israel. The UN Secretary-General wrote to the Prime Minister of Israel, expressing his profound concern about those bills and their impact.*) US finalises curbs on investing in Chinese techThe Biden administration has said it is finalising rules that will limit US investments in artificial intelligence and other technology sectors in China.The rules will apply to semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information technologies and certain AI systems and cover technologies like cutting-edge code-breaking computer systems or next-generation fighter jets.
) Israeli air strikes kill at least 30 Palestinians in northern GazaAt least 30 people have been killed in Israeli strikes targeting multiple homes in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza.The Palestinian resistance group Hamas condemned the attack, calling it a brutal crime carried out by the terrorist occupation army. Hamas also labelled the US as being complicit and responsible for the ongoing massacres and extermination in northern Gaza.) Condemnation and de-escalation calls pour in after Israel attacks Iran In the wake of Israel’s air strikes on Iran, various countries have urged restraint to prevent further conflict escalation in the Middle East.Iran said that two soldiers were killed in Israeli air strikes causing limited damage to its military infrastructure and that it is ready to retaliate against Tel Aviv's "aggression."Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and many other countries condemned the Israeli strikes while the US and UK called on Iran to desist from responding to the strikes. ) RSF attack in Sudan kills at least 124 civilians Meanwhile, at least 124 people were killed in attacks carried out by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the village of Alseriha in the Gezira state of central Sudan.The Sudan Doctors Network has said that forces affiliated with the RSF committed a massacre against civilians.The network called it an irrational escalation against civilians who have chosen to remain for over a year in difficult and tragic humanitarian conditions.) Attack on convoy in Iran's Sistan-Baluchestan kills at least 10 policemenAn attack in Iran’s restive southeast has killed 10 members of the country’s national police force.The Iranian news agencies reported fatalities in the attack in Gohar Kuh, some 1,200 kilometres southeast of the Iranian capital, Tehran.The attack came on a day when Iran was still coming to terms with the Israeli strikes. Authorities have not identified any immediate suspects, nor has any group claimed responsibility for the attack yet.*) China vows 'countermeasures' after US' arms sale to TaiwanChina has said that it will take "countermeasures" to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, criticising a potential $2 billion arms sale package by the United States to Taiwan.Earlier, the Pentagon approved the package, including the delivery of an advanced air defence missile system battle-tested in Ukraine for the first time to the island.
) Israel attacks Iran Israel has launched air strikes targeting what it described as "military targets" in Iran, with Iranian state-run media acknowledging the blasts and saying some of the sounds came from air defence systems around the capital Tehran.Fearing Iranian retaliation, the Israeli military said it had "fully mobilised" its offensive and defensive capabilities. Iran said it is prepared to respond to any Israeli aggression and that Tel Aviv will face a proportional reaction for any action it takes.) Israeli army shoots inside Gaza hospital with 600 people insideMeanwhile, the Health Ministry in Gaza has said the invading Israeli military is searching and opening fire inside the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza with 600 people inside.The ministry said in a statement that the Israeli military is risking lives of 600 people inside, including 70 medical staff, 195 patients and wounded Palestinians, and their escorts.It also said two children in the hospital's intensive care unit died as the Israeli army disrupted the work inside the hospital. The ministry added that the Israeli army destroyed three ambulances, a transport vehicle and a power-generating system in the hospital.) UNIFIL withdraws from south Lebanon's Dhayra post after Israeli fireThe UN Interim Force in Lebanon has said that its peacekeepers withdrew from an observation post near Dhayra town in south Lebanon after Israeli forces fired at it.The UN mission is stationed in southern Lebanon to monitor hostilities along the demarcation Blue Line with Israel - an area that has seen fierce clashes. The mission said that when Israeli soldiers conducted house-clearing operations nearby and realised they were being observed, they fired at the post, which prompted the duty guards to withdraw to avoid being shot.) Putin defends 'sovereign right' to deploy North Korean troopsRussian President Vladimir Putin has defended his country's sovereign right to utilise foreign troops in its conflict with Ukraine, responding to mounting Western allegations that North Korean soldiers have already been deployed to support Russian forces on the front lines.Putin also asserted that if Ukraine sought to join NATO, Moscow would take whatever measures it deemed necessary to ensure its own security. Putin said that when Russia has to decide something, it will decide, but it would be a sovereign decision whether to apply its decision or not and that this was their business.*) Brazil settles for $23B with mining firms over 2015 environmental disasterBrazil's federal government has reached a multibillion-dollar settlement with the mining companies responsible for a 2015 dam collapse that the government said was the country's worst-ever environmental disaster.Under the agreement, Samarco — a joint venture of Brazilian mining giant Vale and Anglo-Australian firm BHP — will pay $23 billion over 20 years.The payments are meant to compensate for human, environmental and infrastructure damage caused by releasing an immense amount of toxic mining waste.
) Israeli strikes kill, injure over 150 in Gaza's JabaliaMore than 150 Palestinians were killed or injured in Israeli attacks on Gaza's Jabalia refugee camp, according to the Palestinian Civil Defence agency. Israeli forces reportedly destroyed 11 houses in the al-Hawaja area last night. The agency underscored the need for help to transport the wounded from the scene.) Türkiye celebrates UN as global beacon of hope: ErdoganPresident Erdogan expressed Türkiye's readiness to help reform the United Nations into a renewed symbol of hope for humanity. He emphasised the need for an effective international system rooted in justice, equality, and solidarity, free from double standards. Erdogan expressed Ankara’s determination to continue contributing to peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and sustainability efforts under the UN framework.) Russia's Putin does not deny North Korea troops deployment in UkrainePresident Vladimir Putin did not refute claims that North Korea sent troops to Russia but emphasised that Moscow has the right to manage its defence cooperation with Pyongyang. He blamed the West for escalating the Ukraine conflict and highlighted NATO's direct involvement in the war. Meanwhile, the US claimed to have evidence of 3,000 North Korean troops being sent to Russia for potential deployment in Ukraine, which could further intensify the war. ) Mozambique's Frelimo party extends five-decade rule in disputed electionMozambique's ruling party, Frelimo, has maintained its grip on power after winning the presidential election, despite opposition allegations of fraud. Daniel Chapo, 47, will succeed President Filipe Nyusi, becoming the nation's fifth president since independence. The electoral commission announced Chapo secured over 70 percent of the vote.*) Fenerbahce draw with Manchester United, Besiktas beat Lyon in Europa LeagueBeşiktaş secured a 1-0 win against Olympique Lyon in the Europa League, thanks to a 71st-minute goal from Gedson Fernandes. The Turkish side wore black armbands in memory of victims of Wednesday's terrorist attack. In another Europa League game, Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce settled for a 1-1 draw with Manchester United at home.
) World leaders condemn terrorist attack in AnkaraGlobal leaders condemned the terrorist attack on a defence facility in Ankara, Türkiye, where five people were killed and 22 wounded. Turkish President Erdogan denounced the attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries, calling it "heinous." Russian President Putin and US Secretary of State Blinken both expressed their condolences, with Blinken reaffirming the US's support for its ally Türkiye. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also condemned the attack, emphasising that NATO stands with Türkiye against terrorism. ) Israel heavily bombards southern BeirutIsraeli warplanes carried out more than 17 air strikes on the Lebanese capital Beirut's southern suburbs, in one of the most intense bombardments.Lebanon's state-run National News Agency reported that the Israeli attack included four strikes in the suburb of Laylaki, which destroyed six buildings and caused fires that spread across a wide area.It also said that Israeli aircraft destroyed the office of the Al Mayadeen TV channel affiliated with the Lebanese Hezbollah group, which was located in an apartment.) G7 moves forward on $50B Ukraine loan, backed by frozen Russian assetsThe G7 is advancing a $50 billion loan package for Ukraine, backed by frozen Russian assets, according to the White House. The US will contribute $20 billion, while the remaining $30 billion will come from allies like the EU, UK, Canada, and Japan. Interest earned on Russia's frozen assets will serve as collateral for this unprecedented financial support.) Saudi Arabia, Iran conduct joint military drill in Sea of OmanSaudi Arabia recently conducted joint military exercises with Iran and other nations in the Sea of Oman, according to a Saudi Defence Ministry spokesperson. Brigadier General Turki al-Malki confirmed the naval drills in a statement following reports from Iran’s official news agency ISNA that the two countries are planning additional exercises in the Red Sea.*) Kuwait bans controversial 'Call of Duty' video gameKuwait has banned Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 due to its depiction of Saddam Hussein and scenes from the 1990s Gulf War. Activision confirmed the game won’t be released in Kuwait, but the government has not officially acknowledged the ban. Trailers showing burning oil fields and Iraqi symbols have sparked controversy, reminding Kuwaitis of painful memories. This is the latest geopolitical issue for Call of Duty, which has previously faced bans in countries like China and Russia for controversial content.
) At least 700 Palestinians killed in Israeli onslaught in northern Gaza: HamasAt least 700 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s ongoing offensive in northern Gaza since October 5th this year, resistance group Hamas said.The Israeli army stepped up its massive assault in northern Gaza amid a suffocating siege that has left tens of thousands of people without food and water.Osama Hamdan, top Hamas representative in Lebanon, said in a recorded speech that the Israeli occupation is committing systematic crimes in northern Gaza, including executions, civilian killings, forced evacuations, and attacks on hospitals. ) Türkiye seeks stronger ties with BRICS: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Türkiye aims to boost ties with BRICS and will join the summit on Wednesday, following an invite from Russia's President Vladimir Putin. The summit will be held in Kazan and brings together BRICS members and other nations. Erdogan noted that BRICS represents 45 percent of the global population and produces 40 percent of the world’s oil.) Arab Muslim community leader in Michigan ejected from Kamala Harris rallyAhmed Ghanim, a well-known Arab and Muslim figure in Royal Oak, Michigan, was abruptly removed from a Kamala Harris campaign event without explanation. Ghanim, a former congressional candidate, was escorted by a campaign organiser to two police officers who forced him to leave just 10 minutes after he arrived. In an interview with the Detroit Metro Times, Ghanim said, "I asked why she was kicking me out. She wouldn't answer. I was very calmly asking why I was being kicked out." ) World in 'chaos' but friendship will last 'for generations': Xi to PutinChinese President Xi Jinping told Russia’s Vladimir Putin that the world is in chaos, but their partnership stands as a stabilising force amid historic global changes. In a BRICS summit in Kazan, Xi emphasised the lasting bond between China and Russia, calling it a friendship that will endure through generations.*) University of Milan cancels agreement with Israeli universityThe University of Milan has suspended its exchange agreement with Israel's Reichman University after the Italian school's rector met with Palestinian students campaigning for a boycott of Israeli universities. The decision, attributed to the escalating Middle East crisis, follows similar moves, including cutting ties with Ariel University earlier this year in response to student demands and advocacy. Student groups called it a "victory" after strong campus mobilisations.
) Israel kills 29 Palestinians in northern Gaza strikesAt least 29 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks, as the army continues its massive offensive, now in its 18th day, in northern Gaza.Artillery shelling targeted a school sheltering displaced civilians near Birket Abu Rashid in Jabalia, killing seven people and injuring dozens.According to witnesses, civilians gathered upon Israeli military orders at the UN-run Kreism School when an Israeli tank fired a shell towards them.Six people were also killed when an Israeli airstrike targeted a group of civilians filling water containers in Jabalia al-Balad in northern Gaza.) Blinken heads again for Middle East to push for Gaza truceUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back again in the Middle East to push for a Gaza ceasefire two weeks before the US elections.This will be his 11th trip to the region since Israel’s war on Gaza broke out a year ago, without any results. Ahead of the trip, US President Joe Biden called Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to congratulate him for his actions in Gaza and Lebanon even as Israel has received widespread condemnation for its genocidal war in the besieged Palestinian enclave.Meanwhile, last week, Pentagon announced the deployment to Israel of a THAAD anti-missile system battery and a crew of US military personnel.) Australian senator to King Charles: 'Give us what you stole from us'An Indigenous senator in Australia told King Charles III that Australia is not his land and the monarch was not needed as the British royal visited Australia's parliament.Indigenous independent Senator Lidia Thorpe was escorted out of a parliamentary reception for the royal couple after shouting that British colonisers had taken Indigenous land and bones.She lamented that British colonialism committed genocide against the indigenous people and shouted …. “Give us what you stole from us — our bones, our skulls, our babies, our people. You destroyed our land. Give us a treaty. We want a treaty.”) Ukraine blasts UN chief for accepting BRICS summit invitation in RussiaUkraine's Foreign Ministry blasted UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres for what it said was his acceptance of an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to a BRICS summit.Putin will host the 16th BRICS summit on Oct. 22-24 in Russia’s city of Kazan, where 32 countries have confirmed their participation, with 24 being represented by their heads of state, while the remaining eight will send high-ranking officials.Major topics at the summit are likely to include economic cooperation, trade agreements and the challenges faced by BRICS members, such as geopolitical tensions, the global economic slowdown and climate change.Russia will likely highlight multilateralism, using the BRICS platform to counter Western-dominated global governance structures.*) Turkish Festival in Washington attracts thousands with rich cultural displaysThousands of people gathered in Washington, DC for the annual Turkish Festival, immersing themselves in a lively celebration of Turkish culture, featuring vibrant performances, traditional music, and authentic cuisine.Organised by the Turkish-American Association of Washington DC (ATA-DC), the festival took place on Pennsylvania Avenue, near the Capitol, offering a showcase of Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage.Visitors were treated to a variety of performances, including traditional Turkish folk dancing, live Turkish folk music, and performances by musicians from the broader Turkish republics, all of which captivated the audience.
) Israel shells Lebanese town with banned phosphorus munitionsThe Israeli army has bombed the southern Lebanese town of Kafr Shuba with internationally banned phosphorus munitions.Reports of the Israeli army firing artillery shells containing white phosphorus in Lebanon emerged last year as well when rights groups presented concrete evidence of the use of banned munitions.Meanwhile, the Israeli army launched a series of new air strikes on Beirut, targeting the Lebanese capital's southern suburb. ) Hundreds of illegal Israeli settlers storm Al Aqsa MosqueAround 1400 illegal Israeli settlers forced their way into the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Sukkot.The Islamic Endowments Department in Jerusalem said the settlers entered the flashpoint site through the Mughrabi Gate in the western wall of the mosque under the protection of Israeli police.According to witnesses, far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir joined the illegal settlers in performing Talmudic rituals at the site amid restrictions on the entry of Muslim worshippers into the complex.) Israel kills four aid workers in GazaIsrael continues unabated massacres in Gaza as it killed four water engineers and workers from the Khuzaa municipality in Gaza. The workers, collaborating with Oxfam's strategic partner, the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU), were killed in a bombing incident despite their vehicle being marked and their movements coordinated with Israeli authorities.The four men were travelling east of Khan Younis to carry out urgent repairs on Gaza's water infrastructure when they were hit by an Israeli strike.) Pakistan passes constitutional amendments to prevent court 'interference'Meanwhile, political churning continues in Pakistan as the government has narrowly passed a package of constitutional amendments that would stop the country's courts from issuing rulings that are considered to "interfere in parliament".Under the judicial reforms passed during a late-night session of parliament, the chief justice of Pakistan will now be selected by a parliamentary committee and have a fixed term of three years.According to Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, the goal of the amendments is to block the judicial verdicts that interfere in parliament.*) UN chief urges 'significant investment' in fund to save natureUN chief Antonio Guterres has appealed to nations gathered at a biodiversity summit in the Colombian city of Cali to help conserve and restore nature.The secretary-general not only called for significant investment in the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) but also for mobilising other sources of public and private finance.
) Hamas confirms Yahya Sinwar's deathHamas has confirmed that its political leader, Yahya Sinwar, was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, and the resistance group reiterated that hostages taken from Israel a year ago will not be released until there is a ceasefire in Gaza and a withdrawal of Israeli occupation troops.A Hamas official said that those prisoners will not return before the end of Israeli aggression on Gaza and the withdrawal from Gaza. In a video statement, Hamas heralded Sinwar as a hero who ascended as a heroic martyr, advancing and not retreating, brandishing his weapon, engaging and confronting the occupation army at the forefront of the ranks.) Israel kills 33 civilians, including 21 women, in Gaza's JabaliaMeanwhile, Israel has killed at least 33 Palestinians, including 21 women and many children, and wounded more than 85 others in strikes on homes in Jabalia camp in northern Gaza. According to Gaza medics, the Israeli air strikes targeted several Palestinian homes in Tel al Zaatar area, east of Jabalia camp and there are missing people under the rubble of the houses. At the same time, ambulances are unable to reach the area under fear of being targeted by the Israeli invading army.) Ottawa warns remaining Indian diplomats not to put Canadians at riskCanadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has placed the last of India's diplomats in the country "on notice", warning them that Ottawa will not tolerate any more criminal activity on its territory.The warning follows the expulsion earlier this week of six Indian diplomats after Canada's national police force said there is ample evidence of murder and extortion by agents in Canada operating on orders from New Delhi.India's high commissioner was among those kicked out of Canada after he was identified as a "person of interest" in the June 18, 2023, assassination of Canadian Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.) Biden vows to continue support for UkraineUnited States President Joe Biden has urged NATO allies to keep backing Ukraine in its war against Russia as he made his farewell visit to Germany just weeks before the US elections.Biden has said that Western allies must sustain support until Ukraine wins a just and sustainable peace.He added, “ We're headed into a very difficult winter. We cannot let up."*) Meta partners with Blumhouse to test AI video tool for filmmakersTech giant Meta has unveiled a partnership with horror film production company Blumhouse to road-test its latest artificial intelligence (AI) video tool.The program, known as Movie Gen, was announced earlier this month though Meta said it was still being developed and would not be added to publicly available products until next year.Meta announced that it had been working with filmmakers from Blumhouse known for producing franchises like "Paranormal Activity", "The Purge" and "Insidious" to refine and improve the tool.
) Sinwar killed in gunfight, defying Tel Aviv's assertions — Israeli mediaHamas politburo leader Yahya Sinwar was killed during a surprise gunfight with Israeli forces, according to Israeli media. Previously reported to be hiding in tunnels, Sinwar was actually found dressed in military gear, ready for combat. Israel’s public broadcaster noted that Sinwar’s constant movement kept him battle-ready after months of Israeli attempts to limit his mobility. ) War between Israel, Iran has 'to be considered a high possibility' — Fidan Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has warned that a war between Israel and Iran is a "high possibility," urging Türkiye and the region to be prepared. In an interview on Thursday, Fidan stressed the need for regional countries to brace for this scenario, which he called undesirable, but potentially destabilising. While Türkiye opposes any conflict with Iran, Fidan acknowledged Tehran's right to self-defence if it comes to that. ) 1 billion people, half of world's children, trapped in acute poverty —UNOver 1 billion people live in extreme poverty, with more than half being children, and nearly 40 percent residing in conflict-affected areas, according to a UN report. The report, from the UN Development Programme and Oxford, highlights that 83 percent of the poor live in rural regions, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The 2024 Multidimensional Poverty Index, covering 112 countries, tracks poverty using 10 key indicators, including health, education, and living standards. ) Kenya deputy president ousted in historic impeachmentKenya's Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was ousted from office after being impeached in an unprecedented political saga that has kept the nation on edge.In a historic move, the Senate voted to impeach Gachagua on five of 11 charges, after a similar motion was overwhelmingly approved by the lower house National Assembly last week.The vote capped a day of drama which saw the 59-year-old known as "Riggy G" fail to testify in his defence after being admitted to hospital with chest pains.*) Texas Supreme Court halts execution of man in shaken baby case after lawmakers' last-minute appealThe Texas Supreme Court has halted the execution of Robert Roberson, convicted for the 2002 death of his 2-year-old daughter tied to shaken baby syndrome. The ruling followed intense last-minute legal challenges and bipartisan public pressure, citing concerns about flawed science. Roberson, who had been waiting in a cell near the death chamber, expressed shock and gratitude after the stay was announced.
) US launches series of air strikes targeting Houthis across YemenThe US military has hit several Houthi weapons depots in Yemen, top officials confirmed. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin called it a "unique demonstration" of the US's ability to strike even deeply buried, fortified sites. The use of B-2 stealth bombers highlights the US's global reach, with strikes targeting Houthi positions.Since mid-October 2023, the Houthis have launched multiple missile and drone strikes against Israeli targets in solidarity with Gaza, which is under a brutal Israeli war.) Resolving Gaza crisis is key to stop regional war: Hamas officialA senior Hamas official Basem Naim said that any resolution to the escalating regional conflict depends on addressing the original crisis in Gaza. With the war in Gaza entering its second year, clashes have intensified in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces confront Hezbollah militants, raising concerns about a broader conflict involving Iran. Diplomatic efforts to cease hostilities are faltering, particularly following Iran's recent missile attack on Israel. Naim asserted that a lasting solution cannot be achieved without resolving the Gaza situation. ) North Korea constitutionally declares South Korea as 'hostile' stateNorth Korea has officially declared South Korea a "hostile" state in its constitution, confirming legal changes pushed by leader Kim Jong-un. This week, the country destroyed roads and railways linking the two nations, with state media calling it a necessary step to ensure separation from the South. The military action is described as part of a strategy to solidify North Korea's sovereignty and distance itself from South Korea.) 400-year-old Assyrian Bazaar restored and reopened in Türkiye's MardinThe 400-year-old Assyrian bazaar in Mardin, Türkiye, has reopened after a thorough restoration as part of the "Street Health Project," aimed at preserving the region's cultural heritage. Governor Tuncay Akkoyun highlighted Mardin's rich history and the importance of protecting its unique cultural identity for future generations. He stressed that cultural heritage fosters unity and brotherhood, which are vital for peace and prosperity in agriculture, trade, and tourism.*) Argentine province prints its own currency amid economic crisisLa Rioja, a province in Argentina, has introduced its own emergency currency, the "chacho," after severe federal budget cuts under President Javier Milei's austerity plan. The local government guarantees a 1-to-1 exchange with pesos, but chachos can only be used within the province. While intended to help locals cope with high inflation and economic collapse, many merchants struggle as the currency isn't accepted by suppliers. The move echoes Argentina's financial crisis of 2001 when provinces also printed parallel currencies.
Strike hits south Beirut after Netanyahu vows 'no ceasefire'Israel launched strikes on southern Beirut after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed a ceasefire deal that would leave Hezbollah near Israel's border.The military also ordered residents to evacuate parts of Beirut, a move typically signaling incoming attacks on the Lebanese capital.) Erdogan: How can the UN protect others when it cannot defend its own staff?President Recep Tayyip Erdogan slammed the UN's credibility, questioning its ability to defend others when it can't protect its own staff.At the Global Diplomacy and Future of Palestine conference in Ankara, President Erdogan criticized the UN Security Council for its inaction, accusing it of standing powerless as Israel continues its strikes and civilians.) North Korea claims more than a million people joined army this weekNorth Korea claimed over a million young people joined its military after accusing Seoul of sending drones into its airspace.Pyongyang retaliated by blowing up key roads and rail links with the South, warning that more drone flights would be seen as a declaration of war. While Seoul denied the drone claims, North Korea insists it has "clear evidence" and accused the South of spreading anti-regime leaflets over its capital.) Toddlers and women among victims as migrant boat sinks near Greek islandTwo infant boys were among four people who died in a migrant boat sinking near the Greek Aegean island of Kos, according to the Greek coastguard.Two women also died in the boat sinking, which occurred in mild weather, a coast guard spokesman said.The spokesperson said 27 people were rescued, including a man detained as a suspected smuggler.) Egypt's long-delayed mega-museum will open some main galleries in trial runThe Grand Egyptian Museum will partially open on Wednesday, showcasing 12 halls of ancient Egyptian artifacts in a trial run for 4,000 visitors, officials said.The $1 billion mega-project near the Giza Pyramids has faced delays, including from the pandemic, with an official opening date still unannounced.The museum will eventually house over 100,000 ancient treasures.
) Netanyahu tells US Israel will strike Iranian ‘military’ targetsIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reassured the US that if Israel targets Iran, they’ll be hitting military sites, not the sensitive nuclear or oil facilities that President Joe Biden had cautioned against. According to a report, Netanyahu made this clear during a call with Biden last week. Sources say two officials, one from the US, confirmed that Netanyahu gave this assurance, aiming to focus strictly on Iran’s military infrastructure.) Police arrest hundreds of pro-Palestine protesters in New YorkIn New York, more than 200 pro-Palestine protesters were arrested after they staged a sit-in outside the New York Stock Exchange, demanding the US end its support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Many of the demonstrators were from activist groups, including Jewish Voice for Peace. Their chants of “Let Gaza live” and “Stop funding genocide” echoed through the streets near Wall Street. While none of them entered the building, dozens crossed a police security barrier, leading to the arrests.) UN Security Council backs peacekeepers in Lebanon amid Israeli attacksThe UN Security Council is sounding the alarm after several UN peacekeeping positions in southern Lebanon were caught in Israeli military crossfire. The 15-member council released a statement expressing deep concern and urged all parties to prioritise the safety of both UN personnel and their premises. The council emphasised that peacekeepers and their bases should never be targeted, reaffirming its support for UNIFIL, the peacekeeping mission, and highlighting its critical role in maintaining regional stability.) Trump abruptly ends Pennsylvania meet after attendees need medical careFormer President Donald Trump had to cut his Pennsylvania town hall short after two attendees needed medical attention. Trump, in the midst of fielding questions from supporters, paused when the heat in the venue caused at least two people to faint. Ever quick to adapt, Trump asked for some music to be played while medics helped one of the individuals. But when a second person needed assistance, he suggested opening the doors and decided to end the event early.*) Tit-for-tat expulsions as Canada probes Indian diplomats over Sikh killingTensions are high between Canada and India, with both countries expelling six diplomats each in a tit-for-tat response to the June 2023 killing of a Sikh activist in Canada. A Canadian government official revealed that Canada’s expulsion includes India’s high commissioner, following evidence that linked the Indian government to violent criminal activity. India quickly retaliated, announcing the expulsion of six Canadian diplomats.
Death toll from Israeli attack on Gaza shelter rises to 22The death toll has climbed to 22 after an Israeli strike hit a school shelter in central Gaza, according to officials. What makes this particularly tragic is that the school was housing thousands of displaced women and children. These are people who had already lost their homes in earlier bombings. And to top it off, the Israeli army reportedly knew that the school was being used as a shelter.) Türkiye condemns Israel’s attack on UNIFILTürkiye has spoken out strongly against Israel, condemning its attacks on UN peacekeeping forces in Lebanon — UNIFIL. In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry didn’t hold back, warning that Israel’s ambitions might go beyond Gaza, suggesting it could expand its offensive into Lebanon. The ministry also pointed out that, given the situation, UNIFIL’s role in maintaining peace and security in the region is more important than ever.) Seoul says N Korea readies to destroy northern parts of inter-Korean roadsSouth Korea has spotted some suspicious activity up north. According to the South Korean military, North Korea looks like it’s gearing up to blow up the northern parts of the inter-Korean roads — those stretches of road that connect the two countries but are no longer in use. Apparently, the North has put up screens and is working behind them, possibly preparing for the demolition. It could even happen as soon as today, officials say. And that’s not all. South Korea is also keeping an eye on the possibility that North Korea might launch another space rocket, which, according to the UN, would basically be a long-range missile test in disguise.) China starts new drills around Taiwan with no end dateChina’s military is kicking off another round of war games near Taiwan, and this time they haven’t given any hint about when it might stop.The exercises, named “Joint Sword-2024B”, are happening in and around the Taiwan Strait, and China says these drills are both “legitimate” and “necessary” for protecting its sovereignty. Taiwan isn’t too thrilled about it and has already condemned the move.) Mechanical SpaceX arms ‘catch’ Starship rocket booster at landing padIn a major test flight, SpaceX sent its massive Starship rocket into the skies on Sunday, and this time, things got even more daring. After launching from southern Texas, the first-stage booster made a return, only to be caught mid-air by mechanical arms — yes, like something out of a sci-fi movie.This booster-catching system, affectionately called “chopsticks”, is part of Elon Musk’s latest risky endeavour with SpaceX. While previous Starship launches have ended with the rockets being destroyed, this one marks a huge leap forward in terms of success.
) Israeli genocide part of displacement plan: GazaThe Media Office in Gaza has said that the Israeli army is intensifying its military actions in northern Gaza, particularly in the Jabalia refugee camp. According to the office, since the ground offensive and complete siege began on October 6, "massacres and deliberate killings" have taken place, resulting in significant civilian casualties in the camp.The office also reported that Israeli forces are preventing rescue teams from retrieving over 75 bodies from the 285 people killed during the ground assault. ) Israel kills 15 people, wounds scores in LebanonIsrael has killed at least 15 people in its strikes in northern and central Lebanon on Saturday. The first strike targeted an apartment in a residential building in the town of Barja in the central area of the country, killing four people and wounding 14 others. The second strike hit a home in the town of Maaysrah in Mount Lebanon, killing nine and wounding 15. ) US 'responsible' for Gaza genocide: Palestine presidencyPalestine has called on the US to stop supporting Israel and force it to end its aggression and comply with international resolutions.In a statement the Palestinian Presidency said that the US administration must force its strategic ally, Israel, to stop its aggression in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, and adhere to international legitimacy resolutions and international court rulings.) Deadly tribal clashes erupt in Pakistan's Khyber PakhtunkhwaAt least 11 people were killed and eight others injured in renewed clashes between local tribes in northwestern Pakistan. Officials confirmed the clashes and said the local administration is trying to control the situation.According to local people, women and children were also among the victims as tribesmen fired at vehicles on roads.*) EU, China fail to bridge gap on electric vehicle tariff solutionThe latest negotiations over European Union tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles ended in Brussels with "major differences" remaining. Brussels has decided to impose new tariffs of up to 35.3 percent on imports of Chinese-made electric cars.Representatives from Beijing and the 27-member bloc have held eight rounds of talks in Brussels since September 20 but failed to reach a consensus.
) New explosions hit UN peacekeepers' base in LebanonThe United Nations peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, has suffered yet another attack, with new explosions hitting its headquarters. The incident has left two more peacekeepers injured, following yesterday’s assault on the same position by Israeli forces.UNIFIL's command centre in Naqoura has been targeted by Israeli military artillery for the third time in three days.) 100+ UN states condemn Israel’s 'persona non grata' declaration on GuterresMeanwhile, a coalition of 104 UN member states, along with the African Union, has condemned Israel's decision to declare Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "persona non grata."The group voiced strong support for Guterres in a statement.The statement, signed by the countries, including Türkiye, criticised Israel’s decision and argued that labelling Guterres "unwelcome" undermines the UN's mandate) Terrorists kill 20 coal miners in Pakistan's BalochistanTwenty coal miners have been shot dead in an overnight attack on their lodgings in Pakistan's Balochistan province.Police said that 35 to 40 plain-clothed, heavily armed men fired at coal miners for half an hour before escaping into the night. ) Hurricane Milton death toll rises to 16The death toll from Hurricane Milton rose to at least 16, officials in Florida said, as residents began the painful process of piecing their lives and homes back together.Officials said nearly 2.5 million households and businesses were still without power, and some areas in the path cut through the Sunshine State by the monster storm from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean remained flooded.President Joe Biden on Sunday will visit areas in Florida impacted by Hurricane Milton. Biden said the estimated damage from the hurricane was about $50 billion.*) US atomic bomb survivors: Nihon Hidankyo group wins Nobel Peace PrizeThe Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organisation of survivors of the US atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for its activism against nuclear weapons.The chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee said the award was made as the “taboo against the use of nuclear weapons is under pressure.”He said the Nobel committee wishes to honour all survivors who have chosen to use their costly experience to cultivate hope and engagement for peace despite physical suffering and painful memories.
) Israel attacks UN peacekeepers in LebanonGlobal leaders have expressed outrage and called for accountability after Israel attacked the UN peacekeeper's headquarters in south Lebanon.The mission said at least two peacekeepers were wounded when an Israeli military’s Merkava tank directly hit an observation tower at its headquarters in Naqura. The UN peacekeepers have accused Israel of "repeatedly" hitting their positions deliberately. ) Israeli launches deadly strikes in occupied West BankMeanwhile, Israeli drones have fired missiles that killed two Palestinians in the northern occupied West Bank.According to the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, two Palestinians were killed in an Israeli drone strike on a vehicle in the Jabal al Salihin area, east of Tulkarem. Israeli forces immediately stormed the area after the strike, retrieved the bodies of the men, and withdrew from the location. ) UN accuses Israel of destroying Gaza health care systemA UN inquiry has found that Israel carried out a concerted policy of destroying Gaza's health care system in its war on Gaza.This amounts to both war crimes and crimes against humanity. A statement by the ex-UN High Commissioner for Human Rights accused Israel of "relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities" in its war on Gaza. According to the report that will be presented to the UN General Assembly on October 30, children in particular have borne the brunt of these attacks. ) Mpox continues to be major health issue: African health bodyAfrica Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (ADC) has said mpox is still a major public health issue in Africa,A total of 3,186 new cases were reported in the past week, with 489 confirmed and 53 deaths. According to ADC, there is a need to accelerate several interventions, including vaccination, to stop the spread, amid surging cases. *) Unilever finally exits Russia, sells subsidiaryBritish consumer goods giant Unilever has completed the sale of Unilever Russia, finally joining many other multinationals in exiting the country following the Ukraine war. Unilever said in a statement that it had offloaded the subsidiary to Arnest Group, a Russian manufacturer, for an undisclosed amount. Unilever said its business in Russia's close ally Belarus was included in the sale.
) Israeli air strike on tents in North Gaza kills 16 PalestiniansIsrael has killed at least 16 people and wounded others in air strikes near Al Yemen Al-Saeed Hospital in northern besieged Gaza.Hossam Abu Safiya, the director of Kamal Adwan Hospital in Gaza, said victims were killed when an Israeli warplane targeted displaced people's tents outside the hospital.Paramedics said the dead included women and children, noting that the bombardment left "charred remains of the deceased Palestinians."Later, several others were killed and wounded in a second air strike targeting displaced people outside the entrance of the hospital, according to the Gaza Civil Defense. ) Israel kills 10, including 5 medics, in southern Lebanon Meanwhile in Lebanon, Israel has killed at least ten people, including five medics, and wounded dozens of others in the southern region.The Lebanese Civil Defense said in a statement that five of its workers were killed in the Israeli air strike on the Civil Defense centre in Derdghaya, a town in the Tyre district in the southern governorate.It said the victims were on duty at the centre and ready to respond to emergency calls. ) ASEAN summit urges end to Myanmar violence yet struggles for solutionsSoutheast Asian leaders have pressed Myanmar's junta and its opponents to stop the civil war and bloodshed in the country, which has killed thousands of people.The Myanmar crisis dominated the first day of the ASEAN summit in Vientiane, Laos where the disputed South China Sea will also be high on the agenda.The leaders held their first face-to-face talks with a senior Myanmar junta representative in more than three years on the first day.) Hurricane Milton makes landfall in Florida as monstrous stormThe US National Hurricane Center confirmed Hurricane Milton has made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category 3 storm.Milton slammed into the region that’s still reeling from Hurricane Helene, which caused heavy damage to beach communities and killed over 200 people. Earlier, officials issued dire warnings to flee or face grim odds of survival.*) Musk’s X reinstated in Brazil after month-long court conflictThe social media platform X, formerly called Twitter, has returned to Brazil.The platform was inaccessible for more than a month due to a clash between its owner, Elon Musk, and a justice on Brazil's highest court over free speech, far-right accounts, and misinformation.Internet service providers began restoring access to the platform on Wednesday after the judge authorised lifting the suspension.
) Israel orders Beirut residents to leave before air strikesThe Israeli military has issued an urgent warning for residents in southern Beirut to evacuate ahead of planned air strikes, which it claims are targeting Hezbollah-linked sites as Tel Aviv widens its war throughout the Middle East.According to the Lebanese Health Ministry over 2,100 Lebanese people have been killed and thousands have been wounded since the Israeli attacks began.Meanwhile, Tel Aviv's ally, the US' trust in Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's government is eroding, with concerns over Israel's handling of Gaza and rejection of a ceasefire proposal, according to a report published by Axios.US officials have said they are concerned that the directive is setting the stage for a potential siege and that Palestinian civilians would not be allowed to return.) WHO warns of disease outbreaks in Lebanese shelters amid Israel's invasionThe World Health Organization warns of looming disease outbreaks in Lebanon as crowded shelters and hospital closures strain the health system amid Israel's intensified ground invasion.The UN health agency has already warned that the system is overstretched and five hospitals in the country have closed so far and four are only partly functional.Meanwhile, the WFP highlighted Lebanon's food crisis, with abandoned farmland and rotting crops threatening food security in the conflict zone.) India's Modi surprises with Haryana win as opposition alliance takes KashmirIndian PM Narendra Modi's BJP clinched a surprise win in Haryana state, defying exit polls and reinforcing its strength despite recent national setbacks.The Congress party, predicted to win, called the outcome "unexpected" and plans to challenge the results.Meanwhile, National Conference, a regional Kashmiri opposition alliance won in India-administered Kashmir, signalling shifting dynamics ahead of key state elections.) British spy chief reveals surge in youth involvement in extremismUK's MI5 Chief Ken McCallum warns of a surge in youth terrorism cases, with under-18s now making up 13 percent of investigations—a threefold rise in three years.He cites online extremism, driven by right-wing ideologies, as a key factor.McCallum said the intelligence service was seeing "far too many cases where very young people are being drawn into poisonous online extremism" and singled out "canny" internet memes. *) AI pioneers Geoffrey Hinton and John Hopfield receive Nobel honoursGeoffrey Hinton, the "Godfather of AI," and physicist John Hopfield won the Nobel Physics Prize for groundbreaking AI foundations.Hinton, 76, expressed concern over AI’s future dominance, despite its benefits.The Nobel Committee highlighted AI’s daily impact, urging ethical use.Hopfield, 91, was honoured for his "Hopfield network," crucial for image and pattern recognition.
) UN rights office calls for end to Israel's impunity over Gaza atrocitiesAs Israel's war on Gaza marks a year, the UN warns of widespread violations of international law. Nearly 42,000 have died, and Gaza faces severe displacement, hunger, and disease. The UN stresses accountability is vital to end impunity and the cycle of conflict as Israeli attacks on civilians, schools, and hospitals continue, fueling violence. ) Israel to expand its offensive to south Lebanon coastThe Israeli army plans to expand its operations against Hezbollah along Lebanon’s coast south of the Awali river. Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee warned civilians to avoid the shore, citing imminent maritime actions. In Israel's northwest, four areas have been declared "closed military zones," restricting access amid heightened tensions on the Lebanon border.) A year on, Netanyahu has failed families of Israeli hostagesFamilies of hostages held by Hamas gathered near Prime Minister Netanyahu's residence, accusing him of stalling efforts to secure their loved ones' release. About 100 hostages remain in Gaza, many are feared dead.Emotions ran high as families demanded action, with one mother saying, "We won’t let you rest until all of them are back." During the gathering, Israel confirmed another hostage’s death.) Shocking surge in Islamophobia as anti-Muslim hatred skyrockets in UKAnti-Muslim hatred in the UK has surged, with Tell MAMA recording 4,971 incidents between October 2023 and September 2024.The NGO's report highlights the rise of verbal abuse, threats and violence, particularly targeting visibly Muslim individuals. Major urban centres, including London, saw the most cases. The group calls for urgent action to curb this growing hostility.*) US researchers win Nobel for cracking gene regulationUS scientists Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun won the Nobel Prize in Medicine for discovering microRNA, a breakthrough in gene regulation.The Nobel Assembly calls it “a completely new principle” essential for life.The duo celebrated virtually, with Ruvkun excitedly preparing for December's Nobel gala.Their work has significant implications for understanding cell physiology and diseases like cancer.
) Israel's year-long assault on Gaza brings widespread devastationIsrael’s military said it launched attacks against Hamas positions throughout Gaza on the anniversary of the October 7 attacks, as the death toll in the enclave rises to at least 41,800 deaths and 96,800 injuries. Children comprise 42 percent of the casualties, according to official data. The offensive has left over 60 percent of Gaza's hospitals out of service. Tel Aviv has also implemented a starvation policy by blocking global aid for food and basic necessities for Palestinians. ) Israel used 'banned bombs' containing uranium in Lebanon: chemistsThe Syndicate of Chemists in Lebanon (SCL) accuses Israeli forces of using banned bombs containing depleted uranium, citing massive destruction across Lebanese areas.The syndicate calls for international intervention to halt the attacks and urges the government to file a UN lawsuit.Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed over 1,200 and displaced 1.2 million since September 23.) Saied wins Tunisia presidential election with 89.2 pct of vote — exit pollTunisian President Kais Saied secured a second term with 89.2 percent of votes, according to exit polls. Challenger Ayachi Zammel garnered 6.9 percent, while Zouhair Maghzaoui received 3.9 percent. Preliminary voter turnout stands at 27.7 percent, as confirmed by Tunisia's election authority, with final results expected soon. The election unfolds amid Tunisia's political and economic challenges.) Massive explosion targets convoy of Chinese nationals in Pakistan's KarachiA powerful blast struck a convoy of Chinese travellers near Karachi's international airport, killing one local and injuring 10, including a Chinese national.The Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility. Firefighters battled flames as officials confirmed airport safety and uninterrupted flight operations. Pakistani authorities say the injured are receiving medical care, with two in critical condition.*) Global rescue teams arrive in Bosnia and Herzegovina after deadly floodsRescue efforts intensify in Bosnia and Herzegovina as teams from neighbouring countries and the EU join to clear rubble and find missing people after devastating floods and landslides.The disaster, killing at least 18 people, has led to postponed elections.EU’s special envoy to Bosnia Luigi Soreca assures support, with teams from Croatia, Serbia, and others already on the ground.
) Israel escalates, bombards southern Beirut with new air strikesIsrael has launched air strikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut, significantly escalating the already tense regional dynamics.Lebanese media confirmed five strikes hitting southern Beirut and its outskirts.The Israeli military stated that the strikes targeted Hezbollah weapons warehouses and infrastructure, with prior warnings issued to minimise civilian casualties. No official information has been released from Lebanon regarding casualties, though ambulances were seen rushing to the scene.) Israeli strike on Gaza mosque kills at least 18 Palestinians, injures manyAn Israeli air strike hit a mosque in central Gaza early Sunday, killing at least 18 Palestinians and injuring many others, according to medical officials. The mosque, located near al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah, was sheltering displaced Palestinians.Gaza’s death toll is approaching 42,000 due to Israel’s indiscriminate bombardments.Israel is also facing a genocide trial for its actions in Gaza.) Israel destroys 79 percent of Gaza mosques, several churchesGaza's Ministry of Religious Affairs reports that Israeli military strikes have destroyed 79 percent of the region’s mosques, damaging 814 out of 1,245.Churches and cemeteries have also been affected, with losses estimated at $350 million.The ministry accuses Israeli forces of desecrating graves and killing 238 of its employees.) Pakistan capital locked down as former PM Imran Khan supporters rallyPakistani capital Islamabad remains on lockdown as security forces flood the streets and mobile internet is cut off.Supporters of jailed ex-PM Imran Khan attempted protests with small convoys entering the capital despite heavy government resistance.Khan, barred from the upcoming elections, praised his followers on X for their "resilience and courage." PTI supporters, defying a crackdown, faced tear gas and roadblocks while rallying from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the capital. Troops have been deployed to maintain order amidst the unrest.*) DRC launches large-scale vaccination campaign against mpoxThe Democratic Republic of Congo, the epicentre of a global mpox outbreak, has kicked off a mass vaccination campaign in Goma. The first doses were administered to hospital staff, with the general population set to receive the vaccine starting Monday. Despite limited resources, the Health Ministry aims to vaccinate as many people as possible to curb the virus's spread.
) Hezbollah says over 20 Israeli elite soldiers killed or injured in fighting Hezbollah has said it has killed or injured over 20 Israeli elite soldiers in southern Lebanon during intense fighting.The Lebanese group says it destroyed an Israeli Merkava tank near Malikiya with a guided missile, resulting in casualties.Hezbollah also launched rockets on areas near Haifa, Kiryat Shmona, and other border regions.Several Israeli military positions, including Nafah base and forces in northern Israel, were also hit.Hezbollah reported additional strikes on Israeli troops attempting to infiltrate Maroun al-Ras.) Trump calls for Israel to target Iran's nuclear facilities first Former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump believes Israel should take action against Iran's nuclear facilities. Speaking at a North Carolina campaign event, Trump responded to a recent question posed to President Joe Biden regarding Israel's possible response to Iran’s missile barrage.Trump criticised Biden’s stance, saying, "The answer should have been, hit the nuclear first, and worry about the rest later." Trump's comments come amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.) Over 6% of Gaza’s population killed, injured in Israel's invasion — WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 6 percent of Gaza’s population has been killed or injured as Israel's military invasion nears its one-year mark.Speaking in Geneva, Ayadil Saparbekov, WHO’s team lead for health emergencies in the region, highlighted that at least 10,000 people remain trapped under rubble.Gaza's healthcare system is in crisis, with over 500 attacks on health facilities recorded since October 2023, leaving 765 dead.) US questions Israel's unpredictable actions in Lebanon — report Tensions between the Pentagon and Israel are rising as US officials express frustration over Israel's unpredictable actions in Lebanon, according to a report published in The New York Times.Israel's recent strikes and land incursions, often without prior US notice, have caught American forces off guard, including a high-stakes operation against Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. With a heavy US military presence in the region, Pentagon officials now question whether this show of force is containing the violence—or fueling it. The US military is also worried about being overextended, as they must also focus on other global threats like China and Russia.*) Floods in West, Central Africa claim over 1,000 lives and displace 740,000 Severe floods have claimed over 1,000 lives and displaced 740,000 across West and Central Africa, affecting 5 million people in 16 countries, the UN has said.Chad, Niger, and Nigeria are hardest hit, with homes, schools, and farmland destroyed. The UN warns of rising cholera risks, especially in Niger and Nigeria.A $35 million aid package has been allocated, but more funding is urgently needed. In Nigeria, $5 million will aid 280,000 people with food, water, and shelter.
) Some 100 US doctors reject Israel’s claim of Hamas misusing Gaza hospitalsA group of 99 American physicians and medical professionals have said they saw no signs of Hamas activity in hospitals, calling on the Biden administration to immediately cease support for Israel.In a letter sent to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris the group of doctors shared their firsthand experiences of the dire humanitarian conditions saying they had "witnessed crimes beyond comprehension."Doctors said in the letter that Israel's "continued, repeated" displacement of the malnourished and sick population of Gaza, half of whom are children, to areas without running water or even toilets available is "absolutely shocking.") US backs Israel’s invasion of Lebanon as bombs rattle BeirutThe Biden administration believes it is appropriate for Israel to continue with its ground and air attacks on Lebanon for now, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.Miller said the nature of all conflicts was "fluid" and "unpredictable" and therefore it was impossible to say how long it would take Israel to achieve its stated goal of clearing Hezbollah infrastructure.) Death toll from Helene that tore through southeast US tops 200More than 210 people are now confirmed dead after Hurricane Helene carved a path of destruction through several US states, officials said, making it the second deadliest storm to hit the US mainland in more than half a century.The storm flooded towns and cities, made countless roads impassable, knocked out power and water service, and left communities shell-shocked as they grappled with the start of a years-long recovery effort.A compilation of official figures confirms 212 fatalities across North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Virginia.) Arab Americans unimpressed by Harris' outreachArab Americans from various walks of life have voiced their disapproval of US Vice President Kamala Harris' latest attempt to reconnect with the minority community ahead of the 2024 elections.TRT World spoke with more than a dozen community members who voiced their sentiment in clear terms — it's simply not enough.As the presidential race intensifies, Harris' campaign finds itself scrambling to repair damaged ties with Muslim and Arab American voters, many of whom feel deeply disappointed by the administration's support for Israel's war on Palestinians in besieged Gaza.*) Netanyahu bugged my private toilet — Boris JohnsonFormer British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has alleged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has bugged his private living quarters on at least one occasion in 2017.Johnson shared excerpts of his forthcoming memoir, "Unleashed" , to daily Telegraph.In his book, which is set to be released on October 10, he writes, "Thither Bibi repaired for a while, and it may or may not be a coincidence but I am told that later, when they were doing a regular sweep for bugs, they found a listening device in the thunderbox."When pressed byTelegraph for more details on the alleged bugging, Johnson deflected, encouraging them to read his memoir upon its release for further revelations.
) Israel confirms damage to army bases in Iranian missile strikesThe Israeli army has confirmed several of its air bases were struck during Iran's massive ballistic missile strikes on the US-backed country.According to Israeli media, authorities confirmed damages to office buildings and maintenance areas.In northern Tel Aviv, warheads reportedly fell close to Mossad headquarters, though they failed to cause significant damage.Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed to have used its Fattah missiles, describing them as capable of reaching Mach 15 and posing a new challenge to Israeli missile defence systems.) Bloodbath continues in Gaza as Israel kills dozens in overnight carnageIsraeli military strikes across Gaza have killed at least 65 Palestinians overnight, including in a school sheltering displaced familiesOne Israeli strike on a school sheltering displaced families in Gaza City killed 17 people, while another hit the Amal Orphan Society, killing at least five others.It comes after Iran launched a salvo of ballistic missiles at Israel on Tuesday in retaliation for Israel's offensives in Gaza, Lebanon and assassinations.) Hundreds of churches, several mosques and two synagogues desecrated in India in one year — US agencyThe United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended that the US government designate India as a "country of particular concern" (CPC), arguing the religious freedom conditions in the country have continued to deteriorate under the Hindu nationalist government led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).The American federal government commission, citing local NGOs, said that in 2023 alone, 687 incidents of violence were reported targeting Christians, "who continued to be detained under various state-level anti-conversion laws”.The US agency also said Indian Muslims and their places of worship continued to face violations throughout 2023, arguing several mosques were destroyed under police presence and Hindu vigilantes attacked Muslims under the guise of protecting cows from slaughter.) Lavrov says Russia stands alongside China on Taiwan, other issuesRussia has said it stands alongside China on Asian issues, including the criticism of the US drive to extend its influence and "deliberate attempts" to inflame the situation around Taiwan.Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov praised Beijing's approach to the war in Ukraine and said both countries wanted to eliminate the problems that Moscow says lie behind the conflict.He said Moscow and Beijing held close positions "in assessing the risks associated with the advance of the West in the Asia-Pacific region".*)Türkiye's new TB3 armed drone makes public debut at TeknofestTurkish unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) producer Baykar's new combat drone Bayraktar TB3 has made its public debut in the country's premier technology event TEKNOFEST.TB3 is the first combat drone capable of taking off and landing from short-runway ships such as the TCG Anadolu.It is equipped with the PD-170 engine developed domestically by Turkish aerospace engine manufacturer Tusas Engine Industries (TEI), and it can fly for more than 24 hours.
) Iran warns it will hit all Israeli infrastructure if attackedIran’s top military boss is drawing a line in the sand. If Israel attacks, Tehran’s response will be devastating. After firing off a massive 200-missile barrage, General Mohammad Bagheri said that was just the start. Next time, he warned, the strikes will be even more intense, targeting all of Israel’s infrastructure.Bagheri explained that Iran had held back after the US and EU promised a ceasefire in Gaza following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. But after Israel took out Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah and Iran’s own General Abbas Nilforoushan, Bagheri made it clear that Tehran’s patience had run out.) Israel launches new air strikes on BeirutBeirut is under fire once again. Israeli warplanes have unleashed a fresh round of air strikes on southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, hitting several neighbourhoods as civilians scrambled to flee. No word yet on the damage or casualties, but the strikes come hot on the heels of an ultimatum from Israel, warning civilians to get out. The situation is tense, with no signs of letting up.) Erdogan warns of consequences for Israel’s ground offensive in LebanonTurkish President Erdogan isn’t holding back. He’s warning Israel that their current ground offensive in Lebanon won’t play out the way their past invasions have. Speaking to the Turkish parliament just as Israeli troops began rolling into Lebanon, Erdogan said this time, the fallout could be far worse.He slammed Israel’s actions in the region, accusing them of dragging countries into conflict, and called out the ongoing violence in Gaza, which he described as genocide. Erdogan made it clear that the stakes have never been higher.) Vance and Walz face off in crucial vice presidential debateIt’s a showdown in the race for vice president. Ohio Senator JD Vance, representing the GOP, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, standing for the Democrats, went head-to-head in their only vice presidential debate. With the election just five weeks away, both men are under serious pressure to lock in support for their parties.*) Austria embraces far-right party with Nazi roots, anti-Muslim stanceAustria’s far-right Freedom Party has pulled off a “historic win” in the country’s parliamentary elections.The party, which opposes immigration and takes anti-Muslim stance, is riding high on the wave of success seen by far-right groups across Europe.But what makes the Freedom Party stand out is its reluctance to cut ties with its Nazi past — a history other far-right European parties have distanced themselves from.
) Israel starts ‘limited, localised’ ground invasion in LebanonThe Israeli army has started a “limited” ground invasion as their attacks in several towns in southern Lebanon continue.According to the Israeli military, they carried out “focused and localised raids” aimed at Hezbollah targets and infrastructure in the south.Meanwhile, Lebanon’s official news agency NNA reported that the shelling hit areas like Wazzani, Marjeyoun and Khiyam, and went on for more than two hours.) President Erdogan calls for global action on GazaTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made it clear that Türkiye won’t stand by as tensions in Gaza, the occupied West Bank and Lebanon continue to rise. Announcing the delivery of 30 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Lebanon, Erdogan stressed that more support will flow if security allows it.He also called for Muslim nations to step up, suggesting that it’s time for the Muslim world to take a leading role in opposing the violence and oppression in these conflict zones.) Putin’s nuclear talk shouldn’t stop NATO backing Ukraine: StoltenbergNATO’s outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is urging allies not to be intimidated by Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats when deciding on military aid for Ukraine. Stoltenberg’s remarks followed Putin’s recent declaration that Russia wouldn’t hesitate to use nuclear weapons if hit by conventional missiles.As the US and its partners weigh whether to allow Ukraine to launch deeper strikes into Russia, Stoltenberg is making it clear that NATO can’t afford to be swayed by what he sees as reckless rhetoric from Moscow.) Japan’s Kishida steps down as PM, paving way for likely successor IshibaJapan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has officially stepped down, clearing the path for Shigeru Ishiba to take over as the country’s new leader. Ishiba, who was chosen by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, wasted no time, announcing plans for a snap election.But not everyone is happy. Opposition parties are already voicing concerns, saying Ishiba isn’t giving politicians enough time to properly evaluate his policies before the vote.*) Did The Jerusalem Post delete article claiming ‘God gave Israel Lebanon’?The Jerusalem Post sparked online outrage after publishing — and swiftly removing — an article that suggested Lebanon might be part of Israel’s “promised land”. The controversial piece, published late September, explored the idea of a “Greater Israel”, a concept linked to far-right Israeli politics.Social media erupted after the article disappeared, with critics accusing the newspaper of promoting expansionist views. Many believe the timing, given the ongoing air strikes in Lebanon, made the story even more inflammatory.
) Israel kills over two dozen Palestinians across GazaIsrael’s latest air strikes on Gaza since Sunday morning have killed at least 25 Palestinians and left many others wounded, according to the Civil Defence.The attacks happened in Beit Lahia, Jabalia, Gaza City, Nuseirat camp and Deir al Balah. Israel’s war on Gaza has now entered its 360th day, and so far, it’s claimed the lives of at least 41,595 Palestinians. On top of that, over 800 people have been killed in Israel’s bombings across Lebanon since September 23.) Israel bombs key ports, power plants in YemenIsrael has also stepped up its strikes in Yemen, targeting Houthi-controlled areas after the Houthi group fired missiles at Israel in the last two days. According to the group’s health ministry, four people were killed and 33 others wounded in the attacks. Israel’s military said dozens of aircraft, including fighter jets, hit power plants and seaports at Ras Issa and Hudaida on Sunday.) Red Cross slams ‘those who lead military operations’ for ignoring international lawThe head of the International Committee of the Red Cross has issued a stern warning on how the Geneva Conventions are being blatantly ignored in conflicts around the world.In an interview with Swiss daily Le Temps, Mirjana Spoljaric urged countries to urgently recommit to international law. She said that international humanitarian law is being “systematically trampled” by military leaders and highlighted the unimaginable number of casualties in Gaza, Sudan and Ukraine.) Austria’s far-right secures first win in national election since WWIIFar-right parties across Europe are celebrating after Austria’s Freedom Party (FPO) won a significant parliamentary election. It’s the first far-right national victory in Austria since World War II. The FPO, led by Herbert Kickl, managed to win around 29 percent of the vote by tapping into concerns about the economy and immigration. However, Kickl still needs to find a coalition partner, and other party leaders, who aren’t keen on him, are already talking about forming an alternative government to block him.*) Germany to deny citizenship to those using pro-Palestine slogan onlineGermany is set to deny citizenship to anyone who uses, likes, or comments on the slogan “From the river to the sea” on social media, a phrase tied to support for Palestine, according to local media reports.North German Radio and Television (NDR) said the new rules come from the German Interior Ministry, and they specifically disqualify anyone using this slogan from becoming a citizen.This decision comes after Germany passed its dual citizenship law back in June. The phrase has roots going back to the 1960s, demanding the full liberation of Palestine.
) Erdogan blasts Israel for extending its 'genocidal policy' to LebanonTurkish President Erdogan slammed Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, accusing it of extending "genocidal, occupation, and invasion policies." Erdogan condemned the killing of Lebanese civilians, including children, and said Israel is emboldened by international support, challenging humanitarian values and international law. "No one with a conscience can justify this massacre," Erdogan wrote on X.) Türkiye criticises US decision to lift arms embargo on Greek CypriotTürkiye’s Foreign Ministry warned that the US decision to extend the arms embargo lift on the Greek Cypriot side will spark an arms race on the island and destabilise the region.The island is divided between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Greek Cypriot administration in the south.The US imposed the arms embargo on Cyprus in 1987 to prevent escalation. It lifted the embargo on the Greek Cypriot side in 2020, expanded it in 2022, and extended it again in 2023.) Deadly bomb blasts hit Somalia's MogadishuAt least six people were killed and 10 injured in bomb blasts in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, and the Middle Shabelle region. One blast came from a car rigged with explosives near the National Theatre, close to the president's office, killing five and injuring seven. While no group has claimed responsibility, al Shabaab frequently carries out such attacks.) Flooding, landslides kill scores in Nepal's capitalFloods and landslides in Nepal, triggered by heavy rains, have killed at least 59 people, with 44 still missing, police said. Over 200 incidents were reported, and the toll is expected to rise. Rivers near Kathmandu have overflowed, flooding nearby homes.*) Thousands in Japan bid farewell to pandas returning to ChinaThousands of emotional fans flocked to a Tokyo zoo to say goodbye to beloved pandas Ri Ri and Shin Shin before their return to China. Wearing panda-themed gear, visitors shed tears and took selfies as they waved at the couple. Over 2,000 fans lined up outside Ueno Zoo, with some camping out overnight.
) Israel launches fierce new wave of airstrikes on BeirutIsrael conducted its most intense bombardment on Beirut's southern suburbs, following a massive strike on Hezbollah's command centre. Reuters reported over 20 air strikes, as thousands of Lebanese fled their homes and gathered in downtown Beirut. "They want to destroy Dahiye, destroy all of us," said Sari, a displaced resident. Many sought refuge in parks and sidewalks, some trying to sleep on rolled-out mats in Martyrs Square.) Netanyahu's attacks threaten regional stability — Hakan FidanTurkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan condemned Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's attacks on Palestine and Lebanon, saying, "With Israeli aggression unbounded, we're in uncharted waters." Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Fidan urged, "Stop this war and Israeli aggression." His remarks followed intense Israeli air strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs. ) Coming days will decide future path of the Middle East — BlinkenUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged diplomacy as Israel ramped up strikes in Lebanon, calling on both Israel and Hezbollah to "stop firing." He warned the region faces a "precarious moment" and stressed that choices made now will have lasting consequences. Blinken emphasised the need for a ceasefire to pave the way for broader diplomatic talks.) In rare rebuke, Belgian leaders blast Pope for church sex abuse cover-upBelgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo slammed Pope Francis over the Catholic Church's handling of clerical sex abuse, demanding “concrete steps” to prioritise victims over the institution. His sharp remarks came during the pope’s visit on Friday, breaking usual diplomatic protocol. The harsh tone reflects Belgium's ongoing outrage over decades of abuse and cover-ups that have eroded the Church's credibility and influence.And finally…*) Award-winning iconic British actress Maggie Smith dies at 89Dame Maggie Smith, the Oscar-winning star of "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," has died at 89. Her sons said she passed away Friday morning in a London hospital, leaving behind two sons and five heartbroken grandchildren.
) Israel hits Gaza school, killing 11 people in devastating strikeAn Israeli air strike has hit a school in northern Gaza, where thousands of displaced Palestinians were taking shelter. At least 11 people were killed, with 22 others wounded, including women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, which took place at the Al Falouja School in the Jabalia refugee camp. Footage from the scene showed rescue workers pulling victims from the debris as crowds gathered in shock.) Netanyahu’s attendance at the UN General Assembly is a shame: ErdoganTurkish President Erdogan didn’t hold back, calling Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s presence at the UN General Assembly “a shame” for the global community. Speaking to reporters at the end of his diplomatic visit to New York, Erdogan said it was a betrayal to the memories of those killed — from babies to UN officials — in Gaza. He also pointed out the strange behaviour of the Israeli delegation after his speech, saying, “They can’t defend themselves. Their stance says it all.”) World can’t wait for Israel’s nod to implement two-state solution: FidanTürkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticised Israel for dragging its feet on the two-state solution, warning it could destabilise the entire region. Speaking at a meeting on Gaza at the UN, Fidan made it clear — the world can’t wait for Israel’s approval. He highlighted a recent Israeli parliament decision that rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, calling it “pure greed” and urging action.) Africa unites at UNGA to demand permanent UNSC seats ‘with veto power’At the UN General Assembly, African leaders stood united in their long-standing demand for permanent seats on the UN Security Council — and they want veto power too. Charles Milupi, a Zambian minister, told TRT World that Africa’s message is getting louder, with leaders saying it’s time for better representation at the United Nations. Milupi also called on the current permanent members — the US, UK, China, Russia and France — to listen and reform the Security Council.*) Zelenskyy presents ‘victory plan’ to BidenIn a high-stakes meeting at the White House, US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the ongoing conflict with Russia. The US had just announced nearly $8 billion in new aid for Ukraine. Biden laid out plans to ramp up security assistance, while Zelenskyy presented his strategy for achieving victory over Russia.
) US, EU, Arab states call for Lebanon ‘temporary ceasefire’The United States, the European Union and several Arab countries have come together to call for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon. This comes after Israeli strikes raised fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. In a joint statement, President Biden and President Macron emphasised that they have been collaborating to create this ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance and prevent further escalation. This effort is supported by nations like Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar.) Hezbollah attack on Tel Aviv ‘deeply concerning’ — White HouseThe US is worried about a missile that Hezbollah fired from Lebanon towards Tel Aviv in Israel. John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, mentioned that it’s concerning not just for Israel but for the US too. However, he also noted that there’s still an opportunity for diplomacy to help calm things down and prevent a larger conflict.) Trump says Ukraine is ‘demolished’ at North Carolina speechFormer President Donald Trump painted a pretty grim picture of Ukraine, calling it “demolished”. During a speech in North Carolina, he suggested that Ukraine should have made some deals with Russian President Vladimir Putin before the invasion in February 2022. He argued that even a bad deal would have been better than the current situation.Trump, who has often criticised US support for Ukraine, insists that Russia would not have invaded if he were still in office, claiming he could end the war if he returned to the White House.) Russia, US violated international laws in Ukraine, Iraq — SlovakiaSlovakia’s Foreign Minister, Juraj Blanar, recently spoke out about how world powers have violated international law by invading other countries.He pointed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 as clear breaches.Speaking to the media during the UN General Assembly, he emphasised that Slovakia’s stance is straightforward: both actions were wrong under international law.He added that we cannot just excuse violations depending on who’s involved; it’s not okay for anyone to break the rules.*) Beijing ‘firmly opposes’ US ban of Chinese tech from connected vehiclesChina’s commerce ministry has come out strongly against the US plans to ban the sale of connected vehicles that use Chinese and Russian technology, saying it poses national security risks.A spokesperson for the ministry stated that this move has no real basis and goes against fair competition and market principles, labelling it as protectionist.This proposed rule is part of President Biden’s tougher stance on China and follows a February announcement about looking into security concerns linked to Chinese tech in cars.
) 'UN, what are you waiting for to stop the genocide in Gaza?' — ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged unity against Israeli genocide in Palestine.Erdogan said at the UN General Assembly in New York, “I call on those yet to acknowledge Palestine to stand on the right side of history and recognise it now.”He stressed the urgent need for a fully independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, adding that delays can no longer be tolerated.Erdogan also expressed frustration at the UN's inaction, describing it as increasingly ineffective in resolving conflicts and calling for the UN Security Council to be reformed. ) Israel kills dozens of Palestinians in new Gaza air strikesIsrael has killed at least 51 Palestinians, including children, and wounded several more in its air strikes on besieged Gaza.The Palestinian Civil Defense issued a statement confirming the extent of the damage and casualties caused by the latest Israeli attacks on the blockaded enclave.The Israeli army strikes targeted residential homes, two vehicles, and areas where large numbers of civilians had gathered.) Missouri executes Muslim man amid claims of innocenceThe fight to save Marcellus Khalifah Williams, a Muslim man convicted of murder in Missouri, ended with his execution despite questions about his innocence.Williams, 55, was executed by lethal injection at Bonne Terre prison. He was convicted for the 1998 murder of a reporter.DNA evidence excluded Williams from the murder weapon, but the state Supreme Court blamed mishandling, not proving his innocence.) Several dead, over 30 injured in Russian strikes on Kharkiv apartment blockRussia has hit a high-rise apartment block and a bakery in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv with guided bombs, killing at least three people and injuring 31 more, according to authorities.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on X, “The targets of the Russian bombs were an apartment building, a bakery, and a stadium. In other words, the everyday life of ordinary people.” *) Türkiye’s Development Road project inches closer to implementationTurkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced that the “Development Road” project, linking Türkiye to the Gulf via 1,200 km of rail and highways, has reached a key phase.Speaking at InnoTrans 2024, he noted that regional conflicts have caused a 30 percent drop in freight traffic through the Suez Canal. With shipping looking for new routes, Uraloglu emphasised that the Development Road project could be a crucial alternative to meet the rising demand.
) Lebanon's death toll from Israeli strikes rises to 500Lebanon's death toll from Israeli air strikes has risen to nearly 500, including 35 children, according to the Health Ministry.The deaths included 58 women, and some 1,645 others were wounded.Health Minister Firass Abiad said "thousands of families" had been displaced.) US sending additional troops to Middle East as regional tensions riseThe United States is sending additional troops to the Middle East after Israel's deadly strikes on Lebanon, the Pentagon said, declining to specify the precise number or mission of the deployed forces.Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, told reporters they are deploying a small number of additional personnel to reinforce forces already in the region out of an abundance of caution.) Bangladesh army chief vows support for Yunus' government 'come what may'Bangladesh's army chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, has pledged full support for the interim government, ensuring key reforms and elections within 18 months after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.Zaman and his troops stepped back during student-led protests in August, sealing the fate of Hasina, who resigned after 15 years in power and fled to India.In a rare media interview, Zaman told Reuters that the military fully backs interim leader Muhammad Yunus and outlined a plan to eliminate political influence within the army.) Trump claims Zelenskyy wants Democrats to win 2024 electionsRepublican candidate Donald Trump claimed Ukrainian President Zelenskyy wants the Democrats to win the 2024 US election, where Trump faces Kamala Harris.At a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump said if elected, he’d call Putin and Zelenskyy to push for a peace deal, criticising Zelenskyy as "the greatest salesman in history" for securing billions in US aid.*) Türkiye's call for UN reform displayed on New York streetsDigital screen vans have showcased visuals promoting Türkiye’s call for reform of the United Nations in New York’s busiest streets during the 79th UN General Assembly.The displays, featuring messages like "Beyond Five: Building a Global System for All" and "A Reformed UN for a Fairer World," emphasised the need for a more equitable international system.Slogans such as "Türkiye: Partner in Humanitarian Assistance and Sustainable Development" highlighted Türkiye’s global contributions.
) Israel's attacks in Lebanon clear effort to spread war: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned Israel's recent attacks on Lebanon could spread war across the region.Speaking at an event in New York, Erdogan has said Israel’s actions and statements show clear intent to escalate the conflict.He also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling them genocide and a threat to regional peace.) Iraqi group targets Israeli base in occupied Golan HeightsAn Iraqi armed group has said they targeted the Israeli observation base in the "occupied Palestinian territories".The Israeli army has also confirmed it intercepted two cruise missiles and a drone launched from Iraq towards the occupied Golan Heights.) UNSC no longer apt, does not represent all countries: South AfricaSouth African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for UN reform, stating before the General Assembly that the Security Council is "clearly no longer fit" to address contemporary challenges.Speaking at the UN's Summit of the Future, Ramaphosa has said it's unjust and unsustainable for a few to control global security while the majority face its consequences.Highlighting ongoing wars, conflicts, and the climate crisis, he stressed that the Security Council’s structure “does not represent all countries” and fails to consider diverse viewpoints.) Exit polls show Germany's Social Democrats leading over far-right AfDGerman Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD) narrowly defeated the far-right AfD in Brandenburg's state election, according to exit polls.The SPD, which has governed the state since 1990, secured 32 percent of the vote, with AfD close behind at 29 percent, according to one exit poll.Another poll projected the SPD with 31 percent and AfD with 10 percent of the votes.*) Ottoman shipwreck near Datca offers glimpse of 17th century naval historyArchaeologists have uncovered important artefacts from the Ottoman Empire in the Kizlan shipwreck off Datca, Türkiye.The excavation, led by Dokuz Eylül University as part of the Blue Heritage Project, is helping reveal more about the ship and the time it sank.Among the discoveries are 14 muskets belonging to the Janissaries, around 2,500 lead bullets, and exploded cannonballs, indicating that the ship was involved in a battle.
) Over 100 rockets fired from Lebanon into Israel; some hit HaifaThe Israeli military said over 100 rockets have been fired into the country from Lebanon, with some landing near the northern city of Haifa.Israeli first responders say the early morning barrage wounded at least three people, damaged buildings and set cars on fire.Social media users shared images of interceptive missiles fired from northern Israel’s air defence systems in response to the incoming threats, with explosions reported in the air.) Israel raids Al Jazeera's bureau in Ramallah, orders closureIsraeli forces raided Al Jazeera’s West Bank office early Sunday, ordering it to shut down for 45 days. The move is part of Israel’s wider crackdown on the broadcaster’s coverage of Israel’s brutal war in Gaza.Al Jazeera condemned the closure and is still broadcasting live from Amman, Jordan.) Beijing's behaviour in South China Sea, Taiwan Strait 'aggressive': BidenUS President Joe Biden said that China is "behaving aggressively" in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, using diplomacy to advance its interests. He made the remarks during the Quad Leaders Summit in Delaware.Biden added that President Xi Jinping is focusing on domestic economic challenges while seeking diplomatic space to further China's goals in the region.) Curfew imposed across Sri Lanka amid vote counting in presidential pollsPolice have imposed a nationwide curfew in Sri Lanka after voting ended in the South Asian country's presidential election, with millions going to the polls throughout the day.The curfew has been imposed in "view of the safety of the public," police said after the election was held in a peaceful manner.People have been asked to stay home until 6 am local time as results of the presidential elections are expected in the coming hours.*) Istanbul Culture Road Festival to host Da Vinci, Picasso, Warhol artworksThe Istanbul Culture Road Festival, running from September 28 to October 6 at the Ataturk Cultural Center, aims to boost Türkiye’s cultural brand. It's part of a series of 16 cultural events organised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2024.The festival will showcase performances, theatre, and exhibitions by renowned artists like Picasso, da Vinci, Frida Kahlo and Andy Warhol.
) Deadly Israeli strike on Beirut suburb 'kills' top Hezbollah commanderTop Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil and other senior figures of the group have been killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut's southern suburbs. Ibrahim Aqil had a $7 million bounty on his head for two 1983 Beirut truck bombings that killed more than 300 people at the American embassy.Aqil who has also used the alias Tahsin headed Hezbollah's Radwan unit.) Lebanon slams Israel at UNSCLebanon's Foreign Minister has told the UN Security Council that no one in this world is safe anymore after Israel's pager and walkie-talkie blasts in his country killed dozens and wounded thousands.Lebanon also accused Israel of "terrorism", saying Beirut is not seeking revenge but justice. He showed the council a large picture of a bloody hand with missing fingers.Lebanon said that they had come to the council to protect humanity and condemn the terrorist Israeli attacks clearly and unequivocally.) Sri Lanka votes to choose a new president Millions of Sri Lankans are casting their votes to select a new president who will face the task of cementing the South Asian country's fragile economic recovery following its worst financial crisis in decades.More than 17 million of Sri Lanka's 22 million people are eligible to vote in the presidential election that has shaped up to be a close contest between incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, main opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and Marxist-leaning challenger Anura Kumara Dissanayake.) Terrorist attack in Pakistan leaves several deadTerrorists have opened fire on a security post in northwest Pakistan, killing at least six soldiers.The attack was claimed by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror group. The military said that its troops fought bravely, foiling the attempts of intrusion and killing five assailants in the encounter.*) US regulator to seek sanctions against Elon Musk The US Securities and Exchange Commission has said it intends to seek sanctions against Elon Musk after he failed to appear for court-ordered testimony for the regulator's probe into his $44 billion takeover of Twitter.In a court filing the SEC said the sanctions motion would seek an order to show cause for why Musk should not be held in civil contempt for waiting until just three hours before the scheduled Sept. 10 testimony to advise he would not appear.
) Hezbollah: Israeli device blasts in Lebanon a declaration of warLebanon's Hezbollah has called the device blasts in Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday a "declaration of war"."With this operation, the enemy crossed all... red lines," Hassan Nasrallah said in his first televised appearance after the attacks, accusing Israel of trying to "kill no fewer than 5,000 people".Early morning on Thursday Lebanon and Israel exchanged dozens of cross-border missile strikes, targeting each others’ positions.Lebanese authorities report significant damage and multiple injuries.) US military ready amid Israel-Lebanon war fearsThe United States has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East as tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, US officials have said. Currently, about 40,000 troops, warships, and fighter jet squadrons are positioned in the region.Despite growing concerns that the conflict may widen, Washington has not announced plans for additional deployments. US military officials say the current forces are sufficient to deter further escalation.) EU supports Ukraine’s call for arms use in RussiaThe European Parliament has passed a non-binding resolution urging EU member states to allow Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia.The vote saw 425 in favour, 131 against, and 63 abstentions. Kiev has long requested permission to use donated arms against Russia, arguing it is essential for self-defence.Moscow, in response, warned of severe consequences, with Russian officials claiming such actions could lead to a world war.) India’s Modi pledges to restore Kashmiri autonomyIndia’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to restore statehood to India-administered Kashmir, during his first election rally in the region since 2014.The promise comes after a high 60 percent voter turnout in the first phase of local elections, the first since Kashmir's autonomy was revoked in 2019.Many voters say they’re expressing frustration over the 2019 decision and hope to elect leaders who understand their local issues. *) European carmakers seek EU help as EV sales dropEuropean carmakers request urgent EU assistance due to declining electric vehicle sales and stricter emissions regulations set for 2025. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association cited challenges such as a shrinking electric vehicle market, lack of charging infrastructure and competitive pressures.They warned of potential fines, production cuts, and job losses if conditions do not improve. But despite these issues, electric vehicle sales are expected to rebound next year.
) UN demands Israel must end 'unlawful' presence in Palestine within a year The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution demanding Israel end its "unlawful presence" in the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months. The resolution received 124 votes in favour, with 43 abstentions and 14 countries, including Israel and the US, voting against it. It comes just before world leaders gather in New York for the UN General Assembly, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas are both expected to speak. The resolution also calls for a halt in arms transfers to Israel that could be used in the occupied territories.) Second wave of explosions hits Lebanon At least 20 people were killed and 450 injured when thousands of two-way personal radios used by Hezbollah members in Lebanon exploded in a second wave of intelligence operation that started on Tuesday with the explosions of pager devices. The latest deaths and injuries brought the toll from the two days of blasts to 32 dead, including at least two children, and more than 3,000 injured.) US urges Israel, Hezbollah to 'keep us from moving into another conflict' US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield has called for calm between Israel and Hezbollah following deadly attacks in Lebanon.Thomas-Greenfield emphasised the need for de-escalation to prevent the conflict from spreading, while the US continues to seek resolutions for Israel's ongoing war in Gaza and calls for the release of hostages.) Cameroon dam release raises flood fears in Nigeria — linkNigeria is facing a flood threat as neighbouring Cameroon starts releasing water from its Lagdo dam.It comes after heavy rains in the region, already causing flooding in Borno state.Eleven Nigerian states are at risk, including key agricultural areas. Authorities are urging vigilance and preparedness to minimize potential damage.*) Fed cuts rates sharply The Federal Reserve made a significant move yesterday, slashing interest rates by half a percentage point.This is the first rate cut since the pandemic, aiming to ease inflation and support the economy.The decision will likely lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, impacting everything from mortgages to credit cards.
) Israel 'fully responsible' for pager explosions: HezbollahLebanon's Hezbollah group blames Israel for the simultaneous explosion of pagers used by the group’s fighters that killed at least nine people.Calling the attacks a "major security breach,” the group says Israel will be punished.Lebanese authorities have urged citizens to dispose of their pagers immediately, while rescue teams work to aid the wounded. The incident has further escalated tensions, as the two nations are already engaged in a prolonged conflict.) US envoy to UN scrambles to justify vetoes on Palestine's bids at UNSCUS Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, defended the use of the veto against Palestine in favour of Israel at the UN Security Council, stating that Washington uses its veto power to protect its interests and will not apologise for it. In response to questions about the impact of US vetoes on Gaza ceasefires and Palestinian statehood ahead of the UN General Assembly, she acknowledged the US respects the International Court of Justice, but criticised the Palestinian resolution demanding an end to Israel's presence in the occupied territories as flawed and unlikely to bring tangible benefits.) Ursula von der Leyen unveils new team of European Commissioners - LinkUrsula von der Leyen reveals her new team of European Commissioners, ending weeks of speculation.The most significant move has been the establishment of a new post aimed at strengthening the EU's defence.Former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius has been appointed as the EU's Defence and Space Commissioner.Kubilius, a well-known hawk against Russia, focuses on bolstering military production and integrating Ukraine's military industry with the EU.) Malian capital hit by rare militant attack - LinkA surprise militant attack on a military airport and training centre in Bamako, the capital of Mali, has left the city on edge. Heavy gunfire was reported near the police station controlling access to the civilian airport.It's the first major assault of its kind in years.JNIM (Jay-neem), a group linked to Al Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack.While the army says the situation is under control, the full extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear.*) Oldest Sunday paper up for saleThe world’s oldest Sunday paper, The Observer, might have a new owner soon. Its current owner, GMG, is in talks to sell it to online startup Tortoise Media. Founded in 1791, The Observer has been with GMG for over 30 years. If the sale goes through, The Guardian which is operating under GMG, will remain a 24/7 online publication with a global focus.
) Israel killed over 700 infants, 12,000 minors in Gaza: Palestine dataThe Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza says Israel forces have killed 710 infants and 11,983 minors since October 7 last year. The ministry has compiled a list of 34,344 Palestinians killed in the ongoing conflict, including elderly victims and newborn children. These are the known victims. The total number of those killed crosses 41,220Experts believe the actual death toll may be even higher, with estimates suggesting as many as 200,000 Palestinians killed in the war and its indirect consequences.) Israel opposition leader urges Netanyahu to finalise Gaza deal - LinkIsraeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a Gaza truce deal without delay.Speaking in Washington after meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Lapid underlined that political interests must be put aside to prioritise the return of Israeli hostages. He stressed that Israel "will not heal" until this is achieved.) Suspect in second Trump assassination attempt charged with gun crimesUS authorities have charged Ryan Wesley Routh with federal gun crimes after he allegedly attempted to assassinate former president Donald Trump. Routh was arrested at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course, where he had camped for nearly 12 hours with a rifle and food before a Secret Service agent confronted him. Prosecutors allege Routh is a flight risk, with court documents revealing he was at the scene for several hours.Authorities have yet to reveal a motive, but Routh has a criminal history and previously expressed outrage about global political events.) Putin orders 180,000 more troops, raising total to 1.5M amid Ukraine warRussian President Vladimir Putin wants another 180,000 Russians to join the armed forces. This will take the size of the Russian military to 1.5 million personnel as the war in Ukraine continues.The decree, effective December 1, aims to address Russia's manpower shortages, which have been blamed for Ukraine's recent advances in the Kursk region. Most of Russia’s capable forces are engaged in the eastern Ukraine offensive, making steady progress in recent months.And finally…*) Germany expands border controls despite EU protestsGermany has expanded border controls with all nine neighbouring countries, sparking criticism from other EU members.The move, aimed at curbing irregular migration, comes after a series of deadly attacks and rising far-right support. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated the controls, initially for six months, will include spot checks.Poland and Austria voiced concerns, while the European Commission warned that such measures should only be taken in exceptional case.
) Israeli army admits to killing three hostagesThe Israeli army has admitted three hostages, whose bodies were found last December, were killed in its own air strike in Gaza.The victims, two soldiers and one civilian were reportedly near a senior Hamas official who was the target of the strike.Though the army had known these details since February, the information was only recently shared with the families.) FBI investigates fresh Trump ‘assassination attempt’The FBI is investigating what it describes as an "attempted assassination" of former US president Donald Trump after Secret Service agents fired on an armed man at Trump’s golf club in Florida.Trump was on the course and remained unharmed. The suspect Ryan Wesley Routh fled the scene but was later arrested during a traffic stop.Authorities recovered a rifle, camera, and backpacks at the scene.Routh had previously been interviewed in a report on foreign fighters in Ukraine.) Israel offers residency for African, Indian asylum seekers who contributed to the Gaza warIsrael is offering permanent residency to African asylum seekers as a trade-off for fighting for the Israeli military in Gaza, according to Haaretz. Defence officials confirm the initiative is underway. However, so far no asylum seekers who helped in the conflict have been granted official status.Currently, over 30,000 African asylum seekers live in Israel, many of whom volunteered for work after the October 7 attack. ) Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso reveal plan for common passportThe Alliance of Sahel States (AES), formed by the military leaders of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, has announced plans to launch a common biometric passport. This new passport aims to enhance cooperation, security, and ease of movement for citizens across the three nations. Mali’s military leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, also revealed plans for a shared information channel to unify communication efforts. *) SpaceX Polaris Dawn crew returns to EarthSpaceX's Polaris Dawn crew has safely returned to Earth after a groundbreaking five-day mission, including the first commercial spacewalk. The Crew Dragon capsule landed off the coast of Florida, carrying four crew members, including the mission commander and two engineers.The mission reached a record altitude of 1,400 km, marking the highest human orbit since the Apollo era.
) Illegal settlers, Israeli soldiers raid West Bank villagesIllegal Israeli settlers and soldiers stormed several villages and towns in the occupied West Bank overnight, leading to confrontations with Palestinian residents.Palestinian Television reported that one person was injured during a raid by settlers who were protected by the army in the village of Umm Safa in northern Ramallah.The head of the local village council, Marwan Sabah, said settlers positioned at Jabal al-Ras attacked the village and fired live ammunition at homes, with the backing of the Israeli army.) Missile from Yemen fell in central Israel — Israeli armyThe Israeli military said a missile fired from Yemen crossed into central Israel and "fell in an open area".The army said in a statement that "a surface-to-surface missile was identified crossing into central Israel from the East and fell in an open area. No injuries were reported.") Türkiye urges int'l investigation into Israel’s killing of Turkish activistTurkish Presidency's Director of Communications Fahrettin Altun has called on the US to investigate Israel's killing of activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi. Altun said on his official X account, "Israel targeted her to silence those who raise their voices against its brutal oppression of the Palestinian people." Türkiye has launched an investigation into Israel's killing of the dual Turkish-American citizen.) Head of NATO military committee backs Kiev's right to strike inside RussiaAdmiral Rob Bauer, head of NATO's military committee, said that Ukraine has the right to strike deep into Russia for combat advantage. This stance reflects the views of several US allies, though the Biden administration is cautious about allowing such strikes with American-made weapons.Bauer asserted that nations under attack have the right to defend themselves beyond their borders. He also highlighted that countries can impose limits on the weapons they supply to Ukraine.*) Maldives says no need for IMF bailoutMaldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer announced that the tropical paradise is moving forward with tax hikes to handle its debt.Zameer reassured reporters that their bilateral partners are understanding their situation. He said, “We’re not looking to the IMF right now,” noting that their current reserve dip is just a temporary issue, reforms and streamlining state-owned enterprises will boost liquidity.
) Third man 'self-immolates' to protest Israel's Gaza genocide, US complicityAnti-war activist Matt Nelson has reportedly self-immolated in protest of US support for Israel's war in Gaza.A video surfaced on YouTube showing Nelson condemning the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s siege and violence. He said, "My name is Matt Nelson, and I am about to engage in an extreme act of protest.", calling for an end to US funding of Israel’s actions in Gaza and urging support for the ICC indictment of Benjamin Netanyahu. ) Biden, Starmer put off Ukraine missiles decision after Putin's warningBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Joe Biden have postponed a decision on allowing Ukraine to fire long-range missiles into Russia, a move that sparked threats from Moscow of war with NATO.Starmer said after meeting Biden at the White House that they discussed strategy but not a specific capability. Starmer had planned to push Biden to approve sending British Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine but indicated the talks will continue at the UN General Assembly in New York next week.) Lead author of Israeli Army's ethics code says troops violating it in GazaAs Israel’s bombing of Gaza enters its 344th day, the Israeli Army’s ethical standards face growing scrutiny. In Haaretz, Asa Kasher, the 84-year-old author of the Army’s Code of Ethics, questioned whether soldiers are ignoring the code. Kasher cautioned, "Thousands of uninvolved Gazans have died, a fact that anyone valuing human life must confront.") Pope Francis slams Israeli strikes on Gaza schools as 'ugly'Pope Francis condemned the killing of Palestinian children in Israeli air strikes on Gaza, calling the bombing of schools to target Hamas fighters "ugly."On a flight back to Rome, he expressed doubt that Israel’s war on Gaza would end soon. "I am sorry to say this," the pope said, "but I don't think they are taking steps toward peace."*) UNESCO 'deeply concerned' about possible looting from Sudan museumsAstronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams admitted it's been tough watching their Boeing ride leave without them, as they now face months stuck in space. They addressed the return of the problem-plagued Boeing Starliner that brought them to the ISS in June but was deemed too risky for their return. Their eight-day mission is now expected to last more than eight months.
) Chief of Israeli intel unit quits over October 7 failureThe head of the Israeli army's notorious intelligence and surveillance unit has accepted responsibility for failing to prevent a raid by Hamas fighters on October 7 last year.Brigadier General Yossi Sariel, who led Unit 8200, told Chief of Staff Herzl Halevi he’s resigning.Sariel is one of seven high-ranking officials, including top military leaders, to step down amid backlash over Hamas' attacks on Israeli military sites and settlements, once Palestinian lands.) New video, witnesses refute Israel's account of Eygi's killingThe Israeli army says Eygi was "very likely" hit unintentionally during a "violent riot" aimed at the "key instigator." But new evidence opposes that claim.Video and witness reports suggest that the killing of Turkish-American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi in the occupied West Bank was in fact a targeted assassination.In this Washington Post's investigation, it shows that Eygi was shot after 30 minutes when the clashes in Beita had ended.) Biden, Gaza 'key factors' driving US support for Africa UNSC seatsThe US push for two permanent UN Security Council seats for Africa and a rotating seat for island nations is tied to boosting Biden's legacy and shifting focus from Israel's war on Gaza, a UN expert told TRT World.Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group said, "Biden might be remembered as the president who paved the way for Council reform." Gowan added that the move helps distract from the US's controversial vetoes on truce calls in Gaza saying "The US wants to be seen as a reformer, not a spoiler." ) Kim's visit reveals North Korea's uranium enrichment plant for first timeNorth Korea’s Kim Jong-un has been wanting to expand his country’s nuclear capabilities for a while now. And now for the first time ever, he has publicly disclosed a uranium enrichment facility.Kim said he is aiming to exponentially boost the production of nuclear weapons for self-defence amid growing nuclear threats from the US and its allies.*) UNESCO 'deeply concerned' about possible looting from Sudan museumsUNESCO has sounded the alarm over armed groups reportedly looting museums and heritage sites in war-torn Sudan. It said it was particularly concerned by reports of looting at the National Museum of Sudan, as well as the Khalifa House Museum in Omdurman and Nyala Museum in South Darfur.The National Museum, which opened in the 1970s, has been home to more than 2,700 objects including some important pieces from the ancient Egyptian Pharaonic dynasties and Nubian culture.
) Islamic Action Front becomes largest party in Jordan parliamentJordan's opposition party, the Islamist Action Front (IAF), made a big splash in the latest parliamentary election.Early results show the front bagging up to a fifth of the seats.The party’s leader Wael al Saqqa said, “We’ve earned the people’s trust, and now the real work begins.” But pro-government and tribal groups still hold the upper hand in the 138-seat parliament. ) 'Biggest lie': Harris under fire for falsely accusing Hamas of rapesThe US presidential candidate Kamala Harris might have received accolades for taking on Donald Trump in the debate. But she is facing backlash for her false remarks about Hamas fighters allegedly raping Israeli women during the October 7 attacks. “It’s shameful that Kamala Harris is spreading atrocity propaganda on national TV,” said political strategist Ashish Prashar in an interview with TRT World. Prashar added, “She’s pushing these lies to justify Israel’s right to genocide.”) Debris with remains of 10,000 people — Rebuilding Gaza is an uphill battleRebuilding Gaza after Israel's war will cost billions of dollars, according to United Nations estimates.The destruction caused by Israel’s military, with US-supplied weapons, has left Gaza in ruins. Clearing the 40 million tonnes of rubble alone could take 15 years and cost up to $600 million, the UN warns.With such massive devastation, the road to recovery will be long and costly for the blockaded enclave.) Netanyahu seeks to choreograph Israeli probe to dodge ICC arrest warrantIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might have a trick up his sleeve that he believes can help him avoid the war crime proceedings at the International Criminal Court. His justice minister Yariv Levin has asked the Attorney General to investigate.Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over their handling of the war on Gaza. The Israeli Channel 12 says this move is actually an effort to shield them from potential arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court. The strategy suggests that the ICC should step back if domestic legal proceedings are considered sufficient. *) Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn crowned world's top female breakdancerAustralian Olympic breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn, once mocked for her kangaroo-inspired routine at the Olympics, is now the world’s number one breakdancer. At 37, Gunn faced ridicule on social media and late-night shows for her performance and outfit at the recent Olympics, with many questioning her place on the team. However, she's had the last laugh, rising to the top of the global rankings - on the basis of what’s being called a technicality.
) Harris and Trump spar at Presidential debateHe called her a Marxist. She repeated false claims about Hamas. Donald Trump and Kamala Harris clashed over a range of issues in a presidential debate that was viewed by millions of people. Harris took a dig at Trump for talking about fictional characters like Hannibal Lecter and lecturing Americans on how windmills cause cancer.Trump accused Harris of hating Israel. While their followers in the US might have cringed and shifted in their seats with anger, many of us in the rest of the world were left wondering what role the next US president will play in ending deadly conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan. ) Israel bombs parts of occupied West Bank and Gaza in latest aggressionIsrael has yet again conducted air strikes killing nine Palestinians in Gaza’s Jabalia and five in the occupied West Bank’s Tubas.Palestinian Red Crescent crews were able to retrieve the bodies of all five people from the bombing site in Tubas. A UN aid convoy was also stopped and held at gunpoint by Israeli soldiers in northern Gaza. ) Biden mulls allowing Ukraine to engage Russia with US long-range missilesUkraine President Vladimir Zelenskyy might finally have his day on the battlefield. Reports say that US President Joe Biden is considering allowing Ukraine to use long-range weapons against Russia.For months, Zelenskyy has begged his Western allies to let his army use missiles and jets that can hit deep inside Russia. But many of the weapons that have gone to Ukraine have come from NATO members. And that raises the possibility that any mistake can drag them into a direct conflict with Russia. ) 9/11: United States’ legacy in AfghanistanToday marks the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks on the United States, which started one of the longest and bloodiest US invasions. Tens of thousands of Afghans were killed in the war that followed. Hundreds were kidnapped and sent to Guantanamo Bay without any trial or evidence. In what many see as a testimony to the failure of the war, even the Taliban came back to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Now the Western world refuses to recognise them as a legitimate government. The UK and Norway just closed the Afghan embassies in their countries saying they do not recognise the Taliban, leaving the fate of thousands of Afghan expats in limbo. And finally….*) SpaceX launches Polaris Dawn mission for first-ever spacewalk by civiliansSpaceX has launched its historic Polaris Dawn mission. This audacious orbital expedition will catapult civilians into a high-radiation region of space and see them attempt the first-ever spacewalk by non-professional astronauts.The four-member crew aims to journey farther into the cosmos than any other manned mission in more than half a century, since the end of the Apollo era.On the mission's first day, they will soar to a peak altitude of 1,400 kilometres before returning into a lower orbit.
) Israeli massacres persist in GazaIsrael killed at least 40 Palestinians in air strikes on a tent encampment in Gaza’s Khan YounisThe death toll is likely to rise as dozens more have been wounded. The carnage happened after four Israeli air strikes hit the Al-Mawasi camp, which is marked as a humanitarian zone, a supposedly safe place for displaced Palestinians.) Israel killed 3 hostages in Gaza strike— reportThe Israeli army killed its own people and hid the information from the public.In December, the Israeli military used air strikes to target a senior leader of the Palestinian resistance group Hamas in northern Gaza. But those strikes ended up killing three Israeli hostages, including two soldiers.) India's top court rejects petition to stop arms sale to IsraelNew Delhi won’t cut its military support for Israel - at least for now…that is the ruling of India’s Supreme Court.The Highest COURT in the world’s largest democracy struck down a public interest litigation that wanted the government to cancel the licences of Indian firms exporting arms to Israel.But the court says that it cannot rule over the country’s foreign policy and even went on to point out that Indian firms can be sued for breach of contract if they are barred from selling weapons to Israel) Moscow thwarts Kiev’s drone barrageOvernight, Russia intercepted around 70 Ukrainian drones, including a dozen over the skies near the capital, MoscowThe Ukrainian attack forced three Russian airports to suspend flights.Moscow's governor says that a Ukrainian drone attack on the city killed a woman.*) Hollywood mourns James Earl JonesHollywood stars are mourning the death of James Earl Jones, the voice of "Star Wars" villain Darth Vader, at the age of 93.Jones, who also voiced King Mufasa in Disney’s animated feature "The Lion King," had a prolific career
) Israel storms Palestinian refugee camps The Israeli army has raided the city of Tulkarem and the Balata refugee camp in overnight attacks in the northern occupied West Bank.Several occupation military vehicles accompanied by heavy bulldozers entered the city from its western side, where they began demolishing infrastructure in the al-Alemi area. ) Two NATO members say Russian drones violated their airspaceTwo NATO members have said Russian drones violated their airspace, as one reportedly flew into Romania, while another crashed in eastern Latvia.Romania's Ministry of National Defence has said a drone entered Romanian territory as Moscow reportedly struck civilian targets and port infrastructure in Ukraine. Bucharest reportedly deployed F-16 warplanes to monitor its airspace.Latvia’s Defence Minister also said a Russian drone fell near the town of Rezekne, and had likely strayed into Latvia from neighbouring Belarus.) Imran Khan's supporters rally in Pakistan, defy roadblocksThousands of supporters of Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan gathered in Islamabad despite authorities blocking the main routes into the capital.The demonstration, led by Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, is the largest in Islamabad since he was jailed last year on several charges, some of them still before the courts.In jail since August 2023, Khan insists along with his party that the charges against him are designed to prevent him from returning to office.) Sudan's cholera and flood death toll reaches 390 The death toll from floods and rains in Sudan has gone up to 205, with deaths from cholera reaching 185.Sudan’s Health Ministry has said that some 268 new cholera cases have been recorded, including 6 deaths in the states of Kassala, Nile River, and Gedarif. This brings the total number of cholera cases in the seven affected states to 5,692.More than 26,000 homes have been completely damaged, while 33,000 homes have been partially damaged due to floods and rains since June.*) China to evaluate simulated lunar soilChinese scientists plan to send bricks made from simulated lunar soil into space to evaluate if they can be used to build a research base on the moon. The sample bricks will be sent to see how they hold up in extreme conditions.Beijing intends to build a research base known as the International Lunar Research Station near the moon’s south pole by 2035 for scientific exploration.
) Turkish-American activist shot dead by Israeli sniper — autopsyAn autopsy report of Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a Turkish-American activist, has confirmed an Israeli sniper killed her. Nablus governor has said the autopsy results indicated Eygi’s cause of death was a gunshot wound inflicted by a sniper, specifically targeting her head. Palestinian officials had earlier also suggested that Eygi’s death was likely the result of deliberate targeting by an Israeli sniper.) Israelis rally for hostage swap as Netanyahu's government faces pressureIsraeli protesters took to the streets demanding a hostage swap deal with the Palestinian factions in Gaza.Thousands of protesters gathered in several cities across Israel, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and the Karkur Junction area near Haifa. Protesters chanted slogans, calling on Benjamin Netanyahu's government to immediately conclude a hostage swap deal.) Türkiye slams Israeli FM's remarks as 'full of lies'The Turkish government has condemned a recent social media post by Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, calling it lies and slander targeting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Türkiye.In an official statement, Turkish authorities pointed out that Katz holds no real credibility, even within the Netanyahu government, which is infamously remembered for its crimes against humanity, leaving a dark stain on history.According to the statement, Katz is attempting to remain relevant by drawing the attention of social media users in Türkiye in a bid to secure his position within what it described as a "genocide network.") Meta removes TRT Arabi documentary on Israeli attacks against journalistsFacebook, owned by Meta, has removed a documentary produced by TRT Arabi that highlights Israeli crimes against journalists in Gaza and southern Lebanon.On August 30, TRT Arabi aired a documentary titled "Journalism Under Genocide," which shed light on the experiences of journalists covering the Israeli war on Gaza and their work in southern Lebanon.The film traces the systematic killings carried out by the occupation forces against journalists since October 7, highlighting key stories of journalists being targeted while performing their duties.*) Boeing's Starliner capsule returns to EarthNASA has announced that Boeing's uncrewed Starliner spacecraft landed at New Mexico's White Sands Space Harbor. The spacecraft was undocked from the International Space Station for its return to Earth.However, NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will remain aboard until February 2025.
) Israel bombs schools and homes in GazaIsrael has killed at least 13 Palestinians and wounded another 15 in fresh strikes on a school sheltering refugees and a residential building in Gaza. At least eight of the dead were in refugee tents at Halima al-Sa'diyya School in Jabalia in northern Gaza.As usual, the Israeli military called the strikes "precise".)Turkish activist shot on Israeli politicians' orders — PalestineThe Palestinian Foreign Ministry has said the killing of a Turkish-American activist by the Israeli army in the northern occupied West Bank was carried out on the orders of Israeli politicians.Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a Turkish-American peace activist, was shot dead by Israeli forces during a protest against illegal Israeli settlements in the town of Beita, near Nablus city in the northern occupied West Bank.In a statement, the Foreign Ministry called Aysenur's killing "an integral part of the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation against the Palestinian people.") UN expert slams Netanyahu's 'starvation campaign' in GazaThe UN independent investigator on the right to food has accused Israel of carrying out a "starvation campaign" against Palestinians during its genocidal war in besieged Gaza.In a report this week, investigator Michael Fakhri said Tel Aviv began to block all food, water, fuel, and other supplies into the blockaded Gaza on 9th October.He said that never in post-war history had a population been made to go hungry so quickly and so completely as was the case for the 2.3 million Palestinians living in Gaza.) Court delays Trump's sentencing in 'hush money' case until after electionSentencing for Donald Trump in his New York "hush money" trial has been delayed until after November's election as he battles Democrat Kamala Harris in the knife-edge White House race.The former US president was scheduled to be sentenced on September 18 for falsifying business records in a scheme to silence an adult movie star's politically damaging story.However, Judge Juan Merchan postponed it until November 26, three weeks past the November 5 election, as requested by Trump's lawyers.*) West Africa flooding displaces nearly 1M people: aid groupInternational charity Save the Children has said severe flooding in West Africa has displaced nearly 950,000 people and disrupted children's education at the start of the school year.The NGO has said hundreds of thousands of children now displaced from their homes are facing disease, hunger from crop destruction, and disruption to their education, as schools have become crowded with fleeing families or damaged in the floods.
) Hundreds march in Tel Aviv to protest against NetanyahuHundreds of Israelis have marched silently through the streets of Tel Aviv carrying 27 mock coffins to represent the 27 captives whose bodies were recovered by the Israeli military during the past nearly 11 months of Israeli carnage in besieged Gaza.The protesters marched through major streets in Tel Aviv at night, solemnly striking a bell as the flag-draped coffins were slowly brought through the streets. The country is reeling from the discovery of the bodies of six Israeli captives, who Hamas says were killed in indiscriminate Israeli strikes.) UK to supply 650 multi-role missiles to Ukraine in fight against RussiaThe UK has said it would provide Ukraine with 650 lightweight multi-role missiles worth 162 million pounds to help protect the country from Russian drones and bombing.The new supply of missiles was announced on Thursday as British Defence Minister John Healey attended the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, an ad-hoc coalition of some 50 nations, at a US air base in Germany.The Ministry of Defence said, in keeping with the new government's commitment to speed deliveries of aid to Ukraine, the first batch of missiles announced on Friday were expected to arrive by the end of the year.) Georgia school shooter's father arrested, charged with second-degree murderThe father of a 14-year-old boy accused of fatally shooting four people at a Georgia high school and wounding nine others was arrested.Colin Gray, 54, the father of Colt Gray, was charged on Thursday with four counts of involuntary manslaughter, two counts of second-degree murder and eight counts of cruelty to children, Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Hosey said at a news conference.In Georgia, second-degree murder means that a person has caused the death of another person while committing second-degree cruelty to children, regardless of intent.) Trump tells GOP Jews Israel's security hinges on his election winRepublican presidential candidate Donald Trump has claimed that the survival of American Jews and Israel's existence are at stake if he loses the upcoming US presidential election against Democratic Kamala Harris.Speaking via satellite to the Republican Jewish Coalition's annual conference at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas on Thursday, Trump exhorted Jewish voters to support his campaign."You’ll never survive if they get in," Trump said, referring to his Democratic rivals.He framed Harris as a threat to Israel, positioning himself as the defender. *) Turkish documentary festival attracts 300 submissions from nine countries The 9th Turkish World Documentary Film Festival has garnered significant attention, drawing 300 submissions from nine countries.This year, the festival aims to promote unity and cultural expression through the theme “Freedom for the Oppressed.” Ten films will receive recognition in various award categories, including long, short, and student documentaries.Submissions flowed in from Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Hungary, and North Macedonia.
) Overnight Israeli strikes across Gaza kill dozens moreAt least 22 Palestinians have been killed and many others wounded in overnight Israeli strikes across Gaza, according to the Palestinian Civil Defence.In northern Gaza, two Israeli strikes killed seven Palestinians, while six others were killed or injured in an attack near Sheikh Zayed Towers.One Palestinian was killed in a strike at the Houja intersection in the Jabalia refugee camp and 10 more were killed in four strikes in Gaza Governorate.In addition, three air strikes in the central region of Gaza killed five Palestinians.) Türkiye, Egypt partnership vital for regional peace and stability – ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has hosted his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el Sisi in Ankara.The leaders co-chaired a meeting between the two countries and signed 17 agreements in various fields.Erdogan said Türkiye and Egypt share a common position on the Palestinian issue, and both sides want to see an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.) Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba resigns from officeUkrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has handed in his letter of resignation to the country's parliament, according to Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk.Neither Stefanchuk nor Kuleba have given any reasons for the resignation.A day earlier, Stefanchuk announced that he received resignation letters from other Ukrainian ministers for reasons that have yet to be determined.) Georgia high school shooting leaves four dead, suspect in custodyAt least four people have been killed in a shooting at a Georgia high school, local US reported.In addition, dozens of people were injured in the shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, CNN reported, citing law enforcement officers.Not all injuries appeared to be gunshot wounds, but rather also people hurt while fleeing.One suspect was in custody, the Barrow County Sheriff's Office said in a statement.And finally….*) Lightning strikes, damages Rome's ancient Constantine ArchLightning has struck Rome's Constantine Arch near the Colosseum during a violent thunderstorm, loosening fragments from the ancient structure.The fragments from Tuesday's lightning strike were immediately gathered and secured by workers at the Colosseum Archeological Park, officials said.The extent of the damage was being evaluated.
) More polio vaccines arrive in Gaza: Palestinian Health MinistryA new shipment of polio vaccines totalling 350,000 doses has arrived in Gaza, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.It came as the vaccination campaign in the enclave continued amid a devastating Israeli war.The second batch of vaccines brings the total number of doses received by Gaza to around 1.6 million.) US says 'time to finalise' Gaza truce deal as protests continue in IsraelThe United States has called for urgency and flexibility to finalise an agreement between Israel and Hamas for a truce in Gaza.State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters the United States will work "over the coming days" with mediators Egypt and Qatar "to push for a final agreement."The deaths of six hostages in besieged Gaza has sparked massive protests in Israel and a general strike against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.) Dozens killed, scores wounded in Russian strike on Ukraine's Poltava: KievTwo ballistic missiles have blasted a military training facility and a nearby hospital in Ukraine.At least 50 people were killed and more than 200 others wounded, according to Ukrainian officials.It was one of the deadliest Russian strikes since the war began.The strike hit the central-eastern city of Poltava, partially destroying a building used by the region’s Military Institute of Communications.) Lebanon's ex-central bank head arrested for alleged embezzlement: officialLebanon's former central bank governor Riad Salameh has been arrested over alleged embezzlement, a judicial official said.The public prosecutor "arrested Salameh after questioning him for three hours on suspicions of embezzlement from the central bank exceeding $40 million".It is the first time Salameh has appeared before Lebanon's judiciary since he left his post of 30 years at the end of July last year without a successor.And finally….*) ‘Game of Thrones’ props are up for auction After watching eight seasons of the epic saga “Game of Thrones,” fans can now purchase prized memorabilia from the HBO series.They can bid on a slew of costumes, props, set pieces and memorabilia from the hit show that ended in 2019 — including a melted version of the coveted Iron Throne.More than 2,000 items, distributed across 900 lots, will be on the auction block in October through Heritage Auctions.
) US officials say Netanyahu ‘torpedoed everything in one speech’US officials involved in negotiating a hostage release-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas have said that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu torpedoed their efforts with his press conference.CNN reported that officials continued to work on a deal even after the death of six hostages.However, Netanyahu said that Israel will never leave the Philadelphi corridor, torpedoing “everything in one speech”, a US official said.) Over 600,000 children in Gaza deprived of learning: UNRWAOver 600,000 children in Gaza have been deeply traumatised and are living in rubble amid a devastating Israeli offensive, says the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.UNRWA said boys and girls around the regions are going back to schools, except children in Gaza.It added that the longer children stay out of school, the higher the risk of a lost generation, fuelling resentment.) West should permit long-range attacks inside Russia: ZelenskyyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Western allies should not only allow their weapons to be used for strikes deep inside Russia, but also supply Kiev with more arms.Zelenskyy spoke during a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in the southeastern Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine has long urged partners to allow it to fire Western weapons at targets far into Russian territory.Zelenskyy said Kiev was now “more positive” about the prospects of getting such permission.) Trump stands firm on ‘election interference’ in face of legal disputesFormer US President Donald Trump is facing federal and state charges accusing him of trying to overturn his 2020 election loss. But he says he had “every right” to interfere in that election.On January 6, 2021, some far-right protesters stormed the US Capitol in an unsuccessful attempt to prevent Congress from certifying the election results.Harris’ campaign said Trump’s latest comments to Fox News “make it clear that he believes he is above the law”.*) Turkish shooter seeks to trademark viral pose over unauthorised attemptsTürkiye’s Olympic pistol sharpshooter Yusuf Dikec has filed to trademark his nonchalant stance at the Paris Games that went viral around the world.His coach said the move, intended to protect the commercial use of Dikec’s pose, came in response to others trying to trademark it.Dikec inspired a flood of memes online, some comparing him to fictional spy James Bond. And even billionaire Tesla founder Elon Musk shared a video of himself striking the stance.
) Netanyahu responsible for truce talks' failure, lives of captives — HamasPalestinian resistance group Hamas has accused Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the US administration for the failure of negotiations to halt the war on Gaza.In a statement, Hamas said that full responsibility for the lives of the prisoners lies with the Israeli army – which has killed several captives.The statement said Israel’s attempts to mislead public opinion through deception is done in order to evade responsibility for the current deadlock in the negotiations.) Over 72,000 children receive vaccinations in Gaza despite Israeli warPalestinian Health Ministry in Gaza has managed to vaccinate more than 72,000 children on the first day of a polio vaccination campaign.This comes despite an ongoing Israeli offensive.Hundreds of children who received vaccinations showed signs of fatigue and malnutrition, according to medical teams at centres in Deir al Balah.The vaccination drive is being conducted in collaboration with the WHO, UNICEF and UNRWA. ) Azerbaijan's ruling party dominates parliamentary election: initial resultsAzerbaijan’s ruling New Azerbaijan Party, or YAP, has won the parliamentary elections held over the weekend.According to the initial results, YAP, led by President Ilham Aliyev, won 68 seats out of a possible 125 seats in the National Assembly.There were 6.4 million registered voters and turnout was 37.27 percent.) German far-right AfD wins first state electionGermany's far-right AfD has won a landmark first regional vote in the erstwhile East German state of Thuringia in a blow to Chancellor Olaf Scholz ahead of national elections in 2025.The AfD took between 30.5 and 33.5 percent of the vote in Thuringia,with the conservative CDU in second place at around 24.5 percent.*) Türkiye denounces ‘Famagusta’ digital series for distorting Cyprus historyTürkiye has criticised the upcoming digital series called "Famagusta" for promoting Greek Cypriot propaganda by distorting historical events.The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the series constitutes a great disrespect to the cherished memories of the Turkish Cypriots who were massacred by the Greek Cypriot gangs between 1963-74. Turkish Cypriot President Ersin Tatar also condemned Netflix’s acquisition of the series, which he described as “black propaganda.”
) Israeli attacks on West Bank devastate Jenin infrastructureThe Israeli army has destroyed about 70 percent of the streets and infrastructure in Jenin city in the northern occupied West Bank during its ongoing military offensive for the fourth day.The Palestine news agency Wafa reported that “water has been cut off from 80 percent of the city and the entire camp due to the destruction of networks”.Israeli offensives in Jenin and Tulkarem have claimed 22 Palestinian lives, adding to the more than 40,600 deaths in Gaza since October 7 last year.) Türkiye to carry out ‘Steel Dome’ air defence project to bolster securityTürkiye will carry out its “Steel Dome” air defence system project, the country’s president has said.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said if Israel has the Iron Dome, then Türkiye will also have the “Steel Dome”. Erdogan said the “Steel Dome” will ensure that Ankara’s layered air defence systems and all of its sensors and weapons work in integration with each other.) Ukraine pushes for US approval to target Russian territoriesUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has increased pressure on the United States to let Kiev strike deeper into Russian territory. This comes after his representatives met senior US officials in Washington.Zelenskyy said, “Clearing the Ukrainian sky of Russian guided aerial bombs is a strong step to force Russia to seek an end to the war and a just peace.”Washington has provided Ukraine with more than $50 billion worth of military aid since 2022 but has limited the use of its weapons to Ukrainian soil and defensive cross-border operations.) UN urges more aid to Sudan amid crisisThe UN’s deputy secretary-general has welcomed food aid reaching Sudan but said it is insufficient as she visited a border post in Chad to witness the passage of a humanitarian convoy.Amina Mohammed, during her visit to the Adre border crossing, also called for a resolution to the fighting in Sudan.During recent negotiations in Geneva, the warring parties made little progress to end the fighting but did pledge to allow humanitarian aid to pass through two key border points. *) Paralympic organisers postpone triathlon in Seine over water quality Paralympic organisers have postponed the triathlon by a day over worries about the River Seine’s water quality.The organisers said their latest analysis shows a deterioration in the water quality following heavy rainfall over the last two days.Despite a $1.5 billion upgrade to improve the Paris sewerage and water treatment system, the Seine has been dogged by pollution concerns, notably for its levels of enterococci and E.coli bacteria.
) Israel continues to bomb Gaza, toll soars in West BankThe Israeli army has killed 12 Palestinians in a series of deadly raids across Gaza, with more bodies being recovered from areas previously vacated by Israeli forces.Palestinian Civil Defense spokesperson said that six Palestinians were killed in two Israeli air strikes in Jabalia, northern Gaza, including one targeting a gathering of people.Palestinian health authorities also said that the death toll from Israel's most aggressive invasion into the occupied West Bank since the start of its carnage in Gaza has reached at least 20.) Pro-Palestine groups gear up for protests against Harris Kamala Harris' strong support for Israel as it continues its genocidal war in Gaza is fuelling calls for a fresh round of protests at campaign stages, universities and public events in the weeks ahead. Arab Americans, Muslims and their allies shut out of a Democratic National Convention speaking slot in Chicago, plan to show up in force during Harris’ debate against Donald Trump in Philadelphia on September 10 and in major cities and college campuses on the October 7 anniversary of Israel’s war on Gaza. ) Nearly 6,200 murdered in South Africa in just three monthsNearly 6,200 people have been murdered in South Africa between April and June, police figures show, as tackling crime poses a key issue for the new coalition government.Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has said that 6,198 people were murdered during the three months. The country also recorded a total of 9,309 rapes between April and June.) Many Israelis considering permanent departure Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has warned that the policies of the regime of Benjamin Netanyahu are pushing many Israelis to think about leaving Israel permanently.In a statement on his X account, Bennett said that with the passing of months amid ongoing carnage in besieged Gaza and on the northern borders with Lebanon, Israelis are in despair due to the regime's policies.*) Brazil bans X as Musk defies Supreme Court orderBrazil's Federal Supreme Court has ordered the suspension of social media site X for violating the legal representation law to operate in the country.Earlier this year, de Moraes ordered X to block specific accounts linked to investigations of digital militias accused of spreading false news and hate speech. In response, Musk condemned the order as censorship and shut down the platform’s offices in Brazil. Justice Alexandre de Moraes said that X would be banned until it complies with all court orders and settles existing fines.
) Harris says 'No' to arms embargo on IsraelUS Vice President Kamala Harris has said in an interview that she would not change President Joe Biden's controversial policy on supplying Israel with weapons for its carnage in Gaza if elected in November.The Democratic nominee and vice president said ‘No’ when asked if she would change course and withhold weapons to Israel, while adding that it was time for a ceasefire and hostage deal and to "end this war."Washington rolls out $3.8 billion in annual military funding to its longtime ally Israel, and the administration has so far resisted calls to condition any arms transfers.) UN slams Israeli ultimatums to PalestiniansThe UN has highlighted the "desperate" situation in Gaza as it raised concerns over the Israeli army’s continued ultimatums to Palestinians to flee the besieged enclave.While expressing "deep concern about the latest deterioration in the occupied West Bank, a UN official said that "the situation in Gaza is beyond desperate with harrowing levels of death, injury and destruction" that "raise very serious concerns about compliance with international humanitarian law." ) Over 1,000 died in recent Bangladesh protestsThe violence that erupted in Bangladesh during last month's anti-government protests killed more than 1,000 people, the country’s health ministry has said, It is marked as Bangladesh’s bloodiest period in its history since its 1971 independence.The violence erupted during a student-led movement against public sector job quotas, which later intensified into an uprising against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.) China urges US to stabilise ties with BeijingChinese President Xi Jinping has urged the US to work together with China in the face of current global challenges and correct its approach to stabilising relations with Beijing.Speaking with visiting US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Beijing, President Xi said in the face of an international situation full of changes and chaos, both countries need to unite and cooperate, instead of split and confront.And finally….*) Massive floods in Nigeria, death toll risesOfficials in Nigeria have said that floods have killed at least 179 people and displaced around 200,000 more in parts of Nigeria after a "few weeks" of intense rain. Most of the serious flooding has been in the north of Nigeria so far.
) Israeli opposition parties agree to oust Netanyahu amid Gaza warChairman of the Democrats Yair Golan has called on leaders of opposition parties to convene an emergency meeting to discuss the removal of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.Golan said in a recorded message posted to his X account that “the complete lack of public trust in the government and decisions made solely based on political considerations compel ... to rise to the occasion”.In response to Golan’s message, Israeli opposition leader and ex-PM Yair Lapid said they will continue to work with all parts of the opposition “until the disaster government that is destroying the country is overthrown”.) Harris seeks to win over Arab American voters with high-profile hireKamala Harris’ campaign for US presidential bid has hired an Egyptian American lawyer and former Department of Homeland Security official to help lead outreach to Arab American voters.Brenda Abdelall would be tasked with shoring up support from the community angered with unwavering US support for Israel’s war in Gaza.Arab American voters hold sway in some states that could help decide the November 5 election.) France charges Telegram’s Pavel Durov over alleged criminal use of appFrance has formally charged Pavel Durov, the founder and chief of Telegram, with a litany of violations related to the messaging app.The charges concern alleged crimes involving an organised group including “complicity in the administration of an online platform to enable an illicit transaction”.Russian-born Durov was arrested at Le Bourget airport outside Paris late Saturday and questioned in subsequent days under arrest by investigators.) Allies’ fear of escalation major roadblock to end Russian offensive: KievUkraine’s top diplomat has said that the biggest problem faced by Kiev as it battles Russia is that its allies are afraid of approving new policies to support Ukraine out of a fear of escalation.Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba’s remarks came a day after Moscow said the West was “playing with fire” by considering allowing Kiev to strike deep into Russia.More than two and a half years since Russia’s full-scale assault, Kiev is pushing the West to give it long-range weapons — and the authorization — to strike targets deep inside Russian territory.*) Sweden to prosecute two men over Quran burningsSwedish prosecutors have said they would put two men on trial for setting fire to the Quran in a series of incidents last year that prompted outrage in the Muslim world.The Swedish Prosecution Authority said the two men committed “offences of agitation against an ethnic or national group” on four separate occasions when burning a copy of Islam’s holy book outside a mosque and in other public places.Sweden’s domestic security service raised its terrorism alert level as a result of the burnings, while neighbouring Denmark, which also saw a spate of Quran burnings, tightened its legislation to outlaw the practice.
) Israeli attacks kill at least 10 Palestinians in occupied West BankAt least 10 Palestinians were killed in Israeli raids and strikes in several towns in the north of the occupied West Bank, a spokesman for the Red Crescent said.Two Palestinians were killed in the city of Jenin, four others in a nearby village, and four more in a refugee camp near the town of Tubas, said the Red Crescent’s Ahmed Jibril.He added that 15 others had been wounded.) UN says only 11 percent of Gaza spared from Israeli evacuation ordersOnly 11 percent of Gaza is not under evacuation orders, a UN official said.Jens Laerke, a spokesperson for the UN humanitarian office, said at a UN briefing in Geneva that since Friday, Israeli forces issued three new evacuation orders “for over 19 neighbourhoods in northern Gaza and in Deir al Balah”.Laerke said more than 8,000 people were staying in these areas, with many sheltering in displacement sites.) Donald Trump hit with new indictment in federal Jan 6 caseSpecial counsel Jack Smith has filed a new indictment against Donald Trump over his efforts to undo the 2020 presidential election.The new indictment keeps the same criminal charges but narrows the allegations against the former US president following a Supreme Court opinion conferring broad immunity on former presidents.The special counsel’s office said the updated indictment, filed in federal court in Washington DC, was issued by a grand jury that had not previously heard evidence in the case.) Ukraine successfully tests first indigenous ballistic missile: ZelenskyyPresident Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Ukraine successfully tested its first domestically produced ballistic missile.No further information has yet been provided about the missile’s specifications.But a Ukrainian military video hinted that its range is up to 700 kilometres on par with the US-supplied ATACMS.*) Australia to limit new foreign students in migration crackdownAustralia has said it would limit the enrolment number of new international students to 270,000 for 2025, as the government looks to rein in record migration.The decision follows a raft of actions since last year to end Covid-era concessions for foreign students and workers in Australia that helped businesses recruit staff locally while strict border controls kept overseas workers out.New international student enrolments will be capped at 145,000 for universities, which is around 2023 levels, and 95,000 for practical and skills-based courses.
) Israeli army and Zionist settlers unleash terror upon Palestine Illegal Israeli settlers have shot dead a Palestinian and wounded three others in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.This is part of more than 1,270 Zionist terror attacks targeting Palestinians since October last year.At least 680 Palestinians have since been killed and nearly 6,000 others wounded by Israeli army and the illegal settlers in the occupied territory.) Palestine lambasts Ben-Gvir’s call to build synagogue at Al-Aqsa MosquePalestine has denounced a call by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir to build a synagogue inside Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem.Palestinian Authority said it was an attempt by Ben-Gvir to drag the region into a “religious war”.The Authority added that the Palestinian people will not accept any harm to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, “which is a red line that cannot be crossed under any circumstances”. ) Turn them in now or face prison — New UK law targets ‘zombie-style’ knivesPolice in the UK are urging owners of “zombie-style” knives and machetes to hand them in as part of a national month-long campaign launched by the government.The soon-to-be-outlawed bladed weapons can be surrendered at stations in England and Wales.The government announced on August 19th that from September 23rd, it will be a criminal offence to possess these weapons in the UK.) Trump blames Harris and Biden for ‘humiliation’ in AfghanistanRepublican presidential candidate Donald Trump has used the third anniversary of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan to pin the chaotic troop pullout on his Democratic rival for the White House.Trump blamed Kamala Harris, the vice president, and President Joe Biden for what he termed a “catastrophic” withdrawal.Trump said “the humiliation in Afghanistan set off the collapse of American credibility and respect all over the world.”*) Pacific Islands Forum urges polluters to pay for climate damage “If you pollute, you should pay,” Pacific leaders say.Emissions-belching nations have been challenged to stump up for climate-related damage as a key Pacific islands summit opened.The Pacific Islands Forum got underway in Tonga’s capital, with leaders hoping to draw global attention to the region’s worsening climate plight.
) Hamas rejects new Israeli conditions in Gaza talksPalestinian resistance group Hamas has said that it is sticking to a July 2nd Gaza ceasefire proposal and rejects new Israeli conditions for a ceasefire.Osama Hamdan, a Hamas official, told media that the talk of an imminent deal is false.The resistance group said that Hamas' negotiating team left Cairo after reviewing the results of the latest round of Gaza ceasefire talks with Israel.) Israel kills several Palestinians in Gaza City, Khan YounisMeanwhile in Gaza,Israel has killed several Palestinians and wounded others after it bombed two homes in Gaza City and Khan Younis.Eyewitnesses reported that warplanes targeted homes in the town of Abasan al-Kabira, east of Khan Younis city.The victims were transported by medical and civil defence teams to the Gaza European Hospital ) Israeli families of hostages accuse Netanyahu of 'thwarting' swap dealThe families of Israeli hostages in Gaza have accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “systematically thwarting” the swap deal with the Palestinian factions.The families held a press conference in front of the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Tel Aviv, Israeli media reported.They said that since early July, a deal has been ready for signing, but Netanyahu's new conditions, particularly the Philadelphi Route, are blocking it.) Belarus 'concentrating' troops on border: UkraineUkraine has accused its Moscow-allied neighbour Belarus of "concentrating" troops on the countries' shared border and warned Minsk against "unfriendly actions".The statement came as Kiev mounts an incursion into Russia's Kursk region and as Russia continues its advance into eastern Ukraine.Belarus had allowed Russian troops to use its territory as a launchpad for their attacks in Ukraine.And finally….*) France extends detention of Telegram founder DurovFrench judicial authorities have extended the detention of the Russian-born founder and chief of Telegram, Pavel Durov.He was arrested at a Paris airport over alleged offences related to the popular messaging app.According to a source the detention of Durov was extended beyond Sunday night by the investigating team who is handling the case.
) Hezbollah launches retaliatory strikes against IsraelHezbollah has announced it launched attacks on Israel with a large number of drones in response to the assassination of the group's top commander in Beirut last month.The Lebanon-based group said it targeted an identified "special military target” as well as Israel's Iron Dome platforms and other sites.Meanwhile, Israeli media reported that 200 rockets were fired from Lebanon into Israel.) Israeli military claims 100 fighter jets raid Hezbollah positions An Israeli army spokesman has claimed about 100 Israeli fighter jets raided Hezbollah positions, destroying rocket launchers.Earlier, the Israeli army said in a statement that Hezbollah is "preparing to fire missiles and rockets toward Israeli territory”.The Israeli army gave an ultimatum to residents in southern Lebanon to "leave immediately." ) Israel leaves mere 9.5 percent of Gaza for civilians The Palestinian Civil Defence in Gaza has said that Israeli forces have turned the designated "safe humanitarian zones" within Gaza into heaps of rubble and ashes.The Israeli attacks have left only 9.5 percent of the Palestinian territory as so-called “safe zones” for displaced civilians.Initially, these zones covered 230 square kilometres or 63 percent of Gaza's total area but as the Israeli military offensives continued, the size of these areas shrank dramatically.) France arrests founder and CEO of Telegram, Pavel DurovPavel Durov, billionaire founder and CEO of the Telegram messaging app has been arrested at an airport outside Paris. Durov was travelling aboard his private jet. His arrest was triggered by a “lack of moderators on Telegram”, which according to French authorities allowed criminal activity to go on undeterred on the messaging app.*) TRT World’s ‘Holy Redemption’ exposes Israeli settler violenceIstanbul’s iconic Atlas Cinema was packed for the launch of TRT World’s investigative documentary “Holy Redemption”.The documentary exposes how illegal Jewish settlers are systematically driving out Palestinians from their homes in the occupied West Bank.In addition, a panel of experts discussed various aspects of the Palestinian struggle ahead of the premiere of the investigation carried out by TRT World journalists at great risk in December last year.The Director General of TRT, Mehmet Zahid Sobaci, said the documentary also sheds light on one of the most disturbing methods of occupation in the world.
) Israel issues flee or die ultimatum in northern GazaThe Israeli military has issued a new ultimatum for tens of thousands of Palestinians in several areas in the northern Gaza, who have nowhere left to go, ordering them to flee ahead of a possible military invasion.The military statement ordered Palestinians to flee towards "shelters" in western Gaza City, claiming it as a "safe area."The Israeli army ordered all those in the 10 neighbourhoods and areas of Al-Salateen, Al-Atatra, Al-Seifa, Al-Karama, and Al-Ghabn to evacuate. ) Biden picks pro-Israel official to direct US policy on PalestineThe Biden administration has appointed a senior diplomat seen as a proponent of lethal weapons transfers to Israel to a new role in shaping US policy on the Israel’s war on Gaza. Mira Resnick is taking over the role of the deputy assistant secretary for Israeli-Palestinian affairs in the State Department’s Middle East office after Andrew Miller left the position.Resnick’s appointment raised concern among some foreign policy professionals, and was seen as "alarming" by opponents of President Joe Biden's unconditional support for Israel’s war on Gaza.) Hundreds of Asian refugees trapped at Sao Paulo's airportHundreds of asylum seekers from India, Nepal and Vietnam have been stuck in Brazil’s Sao Paulo's international airport for weeks in alarming conditions. At least 666 irregular migrants without visas were waiting to enter Brazil with the added uncertainty that the government plans to tighten entry rules on the flow of foreigners using Brazil as a stopover to get to the United States and Canada.) Türkiye, Russia resume joint patrols in northern SyriaThe Turkish National Defence Ministry has announced that Türkiye and Russia have resumed their joint ground patrols in northern Syria, suspended last October due to the deteriorating security situation in the region. The joint patrols are conducted in the Peace Spring Operation as per the Sochi agreement signed between Ankara and Moscow on 22 October 2019.*) Don't use Somaliland country code, Somalia tells airlinesFlydubai and Ethiopian Airlines have removed "Somaliland" from their websites after Somalia issued an ultimatum to the carriers, demanding not to use references to the "unrecognised breakaway region" when booking flights.Somalia's government, through its Civil Aviation Authority, sent the warning to Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai, saying that failing to comply with the directive would bar them from flying over Somalia's airspace.
) Palestine invites those ‘with spine’ to visit besieged GazaPalestine's envoy to the UN has reiterated his call for a ceasefire in besieged Gaza and invited the UN Security Council members to witness firsthand the "horror" endured by Palestinians during the last 10 months of Israeli carnage.Speaking at a Security Council session on Palestine, Riyad Mansour has said that he calls on all those who have a “spine” to come and say we are coming to demand a ceasefire and to demand it now in Gaza. )Pro-Palestine delegates blocked from speaking at DNC Pro-Palestine delegates at Democratic National Convention in Chicago were denied the opportunity to speak about the impact of Israel’s war on Gaza, even as pro-Israel speakers were featured.Convention organisers denied a request to include a speaker addressing the impact of Israel's war on Gaza.) Indian Muslims refute plans for a law on marriagesIndian authorities in Assam state have introduced a bill that would require Muslims to register their marriages and divorces. Assam's state government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist BJP, said the bill would be tabled during the next state assembly.Many communities, particularly Muslims, fear a Uniform Civil Code would encroach on their religious laws.) Russia accuses Ukraine of trying to strike Kursk nuclear power plantRussian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of trying to strike Russia's Kursk nuclear power plant in an overnight attack and said Moscow had informed the UN nuclear safety watchdog about the situation.Putin said that the enemy tried to strike at the nuclear power plant during the night and the International Atomic Energy Agency has been informed, they promise to come themselves and send specialists to assess the situation.And finally ….*) Botswana discovers largest diamond of centuryBotswana says one of the largest diamonds ever found has been unearthed at one of its mines and will be put on show.Canadian mining company Lucara Diamond Corp. said in a statement that it recovered the “exceptional” rough diamond from its Karowe Mine in western Botswana.The weight would make it the largest diamond found in more than 100 years and the second-largest ever dug out of a mine.
) Palestinian groups reaffirm truce deal conditions The Palestinian resistance group Hamas and Islamic Jihad movement have reaffirmed their conditions for any agreement with Israel, including an end to the Gaza carnage, a full Israeli withdrawal and a serious prisoner exchange deal.This was outlined in a statement released by Hamas following a meeting of its Shura Council. According to the statement, the two groups emphasised the need to ensure the rapid delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza regardless of the results of negotiations about ending the war. ) Ilhan Omar blasts Blinken's failed Middle East trip Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar has blasted the "humiliation" US Secretary of State Antony Blinken endured during his recent trip to Israel, where he failed to secure a breakthrough for a Gaza ceasefire deal. Ilhan Omar questioned how the Secretary of State travelled 11 times begging for an end to a situation while continuing to provide the bombs and the weapons to Israel. ) Bangladesh plans to cancel diplomatic passports Bangladesh's transitional government has decided to cancel all diplomatic passports, including one provided to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed that diplomatic or red passports that are allocated to government officials, ministers and members of parliament will be revoked. The decision came as Hasina's stay in India has created uneasy relations between the two South Asian neighbours. ) Ukraine's Kursk incursion ended chances of peace: Russia Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region has annulled the possibility of any peace talks. Moscow has slammed Kiev's strike as a "terrorist raid," saying that after such "outrage, no one will negotiate with them at all." *) Amazon fires choke Brazil Residents of Porto Velho in the Brazilian Amazon have barely seen sunlight in days as a thick cloud of smoke from forest fires has enveloped the city. The concentration of cancer-causing microparticles known as PM2.5 has reached 56.5 micrograms per cubic metre of air in Porto Velho — 11 times more than the limit recommended by the World Health Organization. Inhaling PM2.5 has been found to increase the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and a range of other health problems.
) Hamas: Biden's remark give Israel 'green light' to continue war on GazaHamas has criticised claims by US President Joe Biden that it was backing away from a Gaza truce deal, calling his remarks a "green light" for Israel to continue the war.Hamas said the "misleading claims... do not reflect the true position of the movement, which is keen to reach a ceasefire" agreement and called Biden's remarks an "American green light for the Zionist extremist government to commit more crimes against defenceless civilians".Hamas stated that Biden's comments don't represent the movement's true stance, which has been focused on achieving a ceasefire. ) US sanctions former Haitian President Martelly for drug traffickingThe US Treasury Department unveiled sanctions against former Haitian president Michel Martelly for trafficking drugs, including cocaine, destined for the United States.The actions taken by Washington echo similar moves from the Canadian government, which imposed sanctions in 2022 against Martelly and two ex-prime ministers, accusing them of profiting from armed gangs.The US Treasury said in a statement that Martelly, former president of the Caribbean nation between 2011 and 2016, "abused his influence to facilitate the trafficking of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, destined for the United States.) Pro-Palestine protesters arrested in Chicago More than a dozen pro-Palestine demonstrators have been arrested during a protest that began outside the Israeli consulate and spilled out onto the surrounding streets on the second night of the Democratic National Convention.The intense confrontations with officers began minutes into the demonstration, after some protesters charged at a line of police that had blocked the group from marching.) Ukraine's Kursk incursion prepared with US, UK, Poland — Russian mediaThe newspaper Izvestia has reported that Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region was prepared together with the participation of intelligence from the United States, Britain, and Poland.Citing Russia's foreign intelligence agency, Izvestia said "The Ukrainian Armed Forces operation in the Kursk region was prepared with the participation of the US, UK and Polish intelligence services."*) New variant of mpox might be more contagiousPublic health officials have expressed concern about how quickly the new clade I Mpox variant seems to be spreading.However, other experts urge caution about the lethality of the virus. Epidemiologist Anne Rimoin from UCLA said “I think we have to be very, very cautious about saying that this is more dangerous.”
) Israel kills Gaza civilians as US touts progress in truce talks Israel has killed at least nine Palestinian civilians, including children, in a strike that targeted a gathering of civilians in the al Shati camp west of Gaza City, Palestine's official news agency WAFA reported.WAFA said that "the occupation's warplanes also targeted a residential tower West of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.") Protesters flood DNC site in Chicago, voicing outrage over Gaza warThousands of protesters have marched toward the site of the Democratic National Convention on its opening day to voice their opposition to Israel's genocidal war in Gaza, as Chicago officials said they were committed to keeping the demonstrations peaceful.Despite President Biden leaving the race and Vice President Kamala Harris set to accept the Democratic nomination this week, protesters say their plans remain unchanged.A spokesperson for the Coalition to March on the DNC, Hatem Abudayyeh, said, "We have to play our part in the belly of the beast to stop the genocide, to end US aid to Israel and stand with Palestine." ) Putin offers to mediate between Azerbaijan and Armenia for peace dealRussian President Vladimir Putin said on a visit to Baku that Moscow was still committed to its historic role of mediating peace negotiations between Azerbaijan and Armenia.Putin said, "If we can do something to sign a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia... we will be very happy to."The Russian leader said that after his Baku visit, he will contact Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to "tell him about the results of the negotiations".) Civilians scramble to escape Ukraine's Pokrovsk as Russian forces close inCivilians have fled from Ukraine's eastern city of Pokrovsk, where the Russian army is bearing down fast despite a lightning Ukrainian incursion into the Kursk region.Local authorities said that Russian forces were advancing so quickly that families were under orders to leave the city and other nearby towns and villages starting on Tuesday. Officials said that around 53,000 people still live in Pokrovsk, and some of them decided to get out immediately.*) Yemen floods leave 60 dead, nearly 268,000 affected: UNTorrential rainfall in war-stricken Yemen has caused severe flooding, leading to at least 60 deaths since July, with 13 others still missing and a total of 268,000 people affected, according to the United Nations.Since July, flash floods in Yemen have resulted in 36 deaths in Hodeida, nine in Ibb, eight in Marib, and seven in Taiz, according to a UN humanitarian agency (OCHA) report released on Monday.
) Israel orders army to intensify Gaza onslaughtIsrael has decided to escalate its carnage in besieged Gaza to improve its position in Gaza ceasefire and prisoner swap talks.Sources say that the Israeli security cabinet recently instructed the military to intensify its attacks in Gaza to strengthen Israel's position in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations.) Netanyahu wants to sabotage ceasefire, prolong war: HamasPalestinian resistance group Hamas has said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has prevented the completion of the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner-hostage swap proposal by setting new conditions during the negotiations in Doha.Hamas said in a statement that the new proposal meets Netanyahu's conditions and aligns with them, particularly his refusal of a permanent ceasefire, a complete withdrawal from Gaza, and his insistence on continuing the occupation of key crossings. ) Israeli forces 'deliberately target' TRT Arabi crew in Gaza's Khan YounisIsraeli forces have once again targeted TRT crew in Palestine's Gaza, where they have been working to inform the world about the ongoing massacres in the besieged enclave.TRT Arabi correspondent Sami Barhoum and his team's vehicle were shot at with long-barrelled weapons, with five bullets striking the car. There were no casualties, but Barhoum sustained minor injuries.) Kursk incursion aimed at creating 'buffer zone' — ZelenskyyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said military incursion into Russia's Kursk region aims to create a buffer zone to prevent further attacks by Moscow across the border.Zelenskyy said that Kiev aims to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counteroffensive actions. *) Austria battles major flooding after record downpoursHeavy rains have lashed Alpine regions of Austria and left parts of Vienna underwater, causing severe damage in parts of the country and disrupting road and rail transport.Fast-moving torrents of muddy water swept cars in western Austria.
) Hamas backs UN-proposed humanitarian pause in Gaza for polio vaccinationPalestinian resistance group Hamas has supported a call from the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to provide concrete assurances from all parties guaranteeing humanitarian pauses in order for a polio vaccine campaign to be conducted.The group supports the request announced by the United Nations for a 7-day truce in order to vaccinate thousands of children.Hamas also demanded the delivery of medicine and food to more than two million Palestinians trapped in Gaza.) Twin explosions in Somalia's capital leave multiple deadAt least eight people have been killed and several others wounded in twin explosions in the Somali capital Mogadishu.Officials say that the attack targeted a busy tea shop in the Daynile district and bomb was planted inside the tea shop, frequently visited by security forces in the area.No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion yet. ) Israel kills 18 members of same family in GazaAn Israel air strike in besieged Gaza has killed at least 18 people, all from the same family, hours after mediators expressed optimism for an imminent ceasefire.According to the al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah the air strike hit a house and adjacent warehouse sheltering displaced people in the Zawaida township.) Safety 'deteriorating' at Ukraine nuclear plant amidst war: UN watchdogThe UN's nuclear watchdog has warned that the safety situation at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was "deteriorating" following a nearby drone strike.Earlier, Russia accused Ukraine of dropping an explosive charge on a road near the occupied plant in southern Ukraine.International Atomic Energy Agency experts on site were informed of the detonation near essential plant facilities and immediately visited the area.*) X to cease operations in Brazil amid ongoing legal disputeSocial media platform X, formerly known as Twitter has said it was closing operations in Brazil, citing threats from Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.The decision comes after X reported a "secret order" from Moraes, who allegedly threatened to arrest the company's legal representative in Brazil if the platform did not comply with demands related to content moderation.
) Gaza ceasefire talks fail to uphold July 2 agreement: HamasA senior Hamas official has said that the outcome of the latest Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar’s capital Doha does not include commitment to what was previously agreed upon on July 2 and is not based on US President Joe Biden's proposal.A Hamas official said that the information relayed to Hamas leadership from the Doha meetings did not include adherence to the prior agreement.Another well-placed Palestinian source has said that the new proposal discussed in Doha did not address the status of the Netzarim Crossing or the Philadelphi Corridor.) Pro-Palestinian activists to march on US democratic conventionUS Vice president Kamala Haaris is scheduled to accept her party’s nomination for the presidency next week at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago but will meet voters protesting one of her thorniest electoral issues, the Biden administration's aid to Israel. A coalition of some 200 social justice organisations is going forward with their plan to march at the Democratic National Convention on Monday. ) DRC village in shock as 'ADF militants' kill 16 and abduct 20A local civil society group has said that at least 16 villagers have been killed and 20 others abducted in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo during attacks by militants of Allied Democratic Forces.The assailants staged a series of attacks on locals, some while working on their farmlands.The death toll remains provisional, as the fate of 20 others kidnapped remains unknown.) More protests rock India after rape and murder of medicPolice in the Indian state of West Bengal have arrested hundreds of protesters angry over the rape and murder of a medic last week, while a doctors' association urged more than a million colleagues nationwide to stop work for a day.Local officials said blockades by the protesters disrupted public transport in several parts of the state. More than 1,500 people were detained.*) ICJ to address climate justice and obligations in December ICJ has announced hearings over a key climate justice case outlining countries' obligations regarding global warming and legal consequences for failing to address the climate emergency.The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has said that it would start the hearings on December 2, as it weighs an advisory opinion on the global climate crisis.
) Gaza truce must involve 'complete' Israeli withdrawal — HamasPalestinian resistance group Hamas has said any Gaza ceasefire deal must involve the total withdrawal of Israeli invading troops from the Palestinian territory."Any agreement must achieve a comprehensive ceasefire, a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the return of the displaced," a Hamas official said in a statement after truce talks resumed in Doha.A Palestinian official also said that Hamas would not take part in talks but that its senior officials, who reside in Qatar, were ready to discuss any proposals from the mediators, as they have in past rounds.) More than 400 arrested in Israel's online crackdown Israel has arrested more than 400 people, primarily Palestinian Israelis, in a sweeping crackdown on online activity deemed to incite or support Hamas in the months following the October 7 attack by the Palestinian resistance group.The Legal Center for Arab Rights in Israel, said around 190 of those detained remain in custody as legal proceedings drag on. Many are held in harsh conditions in Israel's penal system. The arrests followed changes in Israeli law that allow police "to open investigations into 524 social media posts" without needing approval from prosecutors. ) Ukrainian officials planned, executed Nord Stream sabotage The sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022 was approved by senior officials in Kiev, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy initially giving his support, according to a report.Speculation has long swirled about who was behind the operation, with both Ukraine and Russia denying any involvement.) Sweden reports first case of deadly mpox strain outside AfricaSweden has announced the first case outside Africa of the more dangerous variant of mpox, which the WHO has declared a global public health emergency.The country's public health agency confirmed that it was the same strain of the virus that has surged in the Democratic Republic of Congo since September 2023. " It is the first case caused by clade I to be diagnosed outside the African continent," the agency said in a statement.*) Climate activists protest at German airports Climate activists staged protests at several German airports, forcing a temporary halt to flights in the latest of a string of similar demonstrations.The Last Generation group said a total of eight activists were involved in the protests at Berlin, Cologne-Bonn, Nuremberg and Stuttgart airports.The group is demanding that the German government negotiate and sign an agreement on a global exit from the use of oil, gas and coal by 2030.
) Hamas wants ‘clear commitment’ on Gaza ceasefire talksHamas will not join the upcoming round of Gaza ceasefire and prisoner swap talks, a leader of the group has said. "The movement will not be part of the upcoming negotiations set to resume, whether they take place in Doha or Cairo," Suhail Hindi told media.He said Palestinian resistance group wants a "clear commitment" from Israel regarding what was agreed upon based on the Biden-backed proposal.) Erdogan reaffirms support for Palestine in meeting with AbbasTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Presidential Complex in Ankara to discuss Israel's ongoing violence in occupied Palestinian territories and the steps needed for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.During the meeting, the leaders addressed the atrocities committed by Israel in Palestine.President Erdogan emphasised Türkiye’s unwavering support for Palestine’s rightful cause and its commitment to increasing international pressure on Israel. ) Israel pressures ICC to delay arrest warrants for Netanyahu, GallantIsrael is pushing the International Criminal Court (ICC) to delay the issuance of arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes in Gaza, according to Israeli media.Official sources said Tel Aviv is putting diplomatic pressure on The Hague-based court to delay its possible arrest warrants against the two.) Sudan ceasefire talks kick off despite army's absenceTalks on securing a ceasefire in the devastating civil war in Sudan has kicked off in Switzerland despite the Sudanese government staying away.The talks are being convened by Tom Perriello, the US special envoy for Sudan. It could last up to 10 days, and is being held behind closed doors in an undisclosed location in Switzerland.*) NASA to decide stranded Starliner astronauts' route home by end of monthNASA needs to decide by the end of August whether to return two astronauts to Earth aboard Boeing's Starliner, which flew them to the International Space Station , or bring them home on a SpaceX craft, officials have said.NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams blasted off for the International Space Station on Starliner on June 5 for what was meant to be an eight-day stay.
) Palestine envoy urges UNSC 'it is time to sanction' IsraelPalestine's envoy to the UN, Riyad Mansour, has urged the UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Israel amid its ongoing carnage on civilians across Gaza."Israel continues taking human lives and every action possible to spread wildfires across the Middle East as we sit here on the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions," Mansour said.Mansour urged the Security Council to "Wake up" and ask for accountability. ) US approves $20 billion weapons package for IsraelIn a statement on Tuesday, the Pentagon said the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has approved the possible sale to Israel of F-15 jets and equipment worth nearly $19 billion.The Pentagon said he also approved the possible sale of tank cartridges worth around $774 million and army vehicles worth $583 million.) Russia says it thwarted Ukrainian forces expanding Kursk incursionRussia claims its forces stopped a Ukrainian attempt to push further into the Kursk region after a weeklong incursion. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that troops, including fresh reserves, aircraft, drones, and artillery, blocked Ukrainian armoured groups from advancing near Kursk settlements. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Kiev has no plans to occupy Russian territory.) Over 1,000 arrested in UK after anti-Muslim riotsUK police have arrested over 1,000 people in connection with anti-Muslim riots which took place over the last two weeks in England.At least 575 people have been charged as courts continued to deal with those involved in the disorder.*) Seismic data reveals large underground water reservoir on MarsScientists from the University of California, Berkeley suggest a vast reservoir of liquid water may exist deep beneath Mars' surface within fractured rocks, potentially enough to cover the planet. This conclusion is based on seismic data from NASA's InSight lander, which studied Mars' interior. The water, located 7.2 to 12.4 miles below the surface, could offer conditions suitable for microbial life, past or present.
) South Africa welcomes Türkiye’s involvement in Gaza genocide caseSouth Africa has welcomed Türkiye’s involvement in Gaza genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, saying it "will bring new perspective."Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s international relations and cooperation minister, said: "Türkiye's intervention will enable the top court to see it from a new perspective."Lamola told reporters in the capital Pretoria that Türkiye's joining in South Africa’s case against Israel "shows how solid the case is.") China slams Israel for killing 100 Palestinians in Gaza schoolChina has condemned the Israeli military's recent attack on a school sheltering displaced people in besieged Gaza that killed at least 100 Palestinians.Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lin Jian said in a statement that Beijing denounces any actions that harm civilians. Lin said that his country opposes any actions that violate international humanitarian law urging Israel to immediately stop its attacks on Gaza. ) Ukraine controls 1,000 square kilometres in Russia's Kursk — army commanderUkraine's top commander, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, announced that Ukrainian forces now control 1,000 square kilometers of Russia's Kursk region. This is the first time Ukraine has publicly acknowledged this significant gain.In a video on President Zelenskyy's Telegram channel, Syrskyi reported that fighting continues along the front line and assured that the situation is under control.) Thousands flee as wildfires bear down on Greek capitalThousands of people have fled their homes around Athens, including in the historical town of Marathon, as strong winds fanned a wall of wildfire flames closer to the Greek capital.Nearly 700 firefighters and over 30 aircraft battled the blazes that had advanced into the city's outer suburbs near Mount Pentelikon.And finally…*) 6th Intl Friendship Short Film Festival honours Palestinian storiesThe 6th International Friendship Short Film Festival organised in Istanbul by Balkon Film with the support of Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism's General Directorate of Cinema is set to welcome film enthusiasts next October.This year's festival will be held in honour of Palestine.Turkish films and those focusing on the themes of the Israeli occupation and Palestinian independence, particularly in the "Humanitarian Perspective" section, will have their submission fees waived.The "Humanitarian Perspective" section will focus on films that highlight Palestinian solidarity or the various struggles faced by Palestinians such as occupation, the Nakba and resistance.
Fire breaks out at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant amid Ukraine-Russia conflictA fire broke out in Europe's largest nuclear power plant in Ukraine, while the UN's atomic energy watchdog has said nuclear safety was not affected.Experts observed Sunday's "strong dark smoke" from the Zaporizhzhia power plant's northern area after explosions were heard in the evening, the International Atomic Energy Agency said on X, adding: "No impact has been reported for nuclear safety."Ukraine and Russia have been trading blame over the incident.) US sends F-35s, submarine to Middle East amid Israeli conflictUS Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered the deployment of a guided missile submarine to the Middle East, the Pentagon has said.In a phone call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Austin reiterated the US’s commitment to take "every possible" step to defend Israel, the Pentagon said in a statement.) Israel wipes out three Palestinian families in brutal Gaza school attackIsrael's air strike on Al-Tab'een School in Gaza killed three families whose members are believed to have "disintegrated" due to the explosions, the Gaza media office has said."The Israeli targeting resulted in the complete loss of 3 families whose bodies have not been found so far,” the media office said in a statement on Sunday.) DR Congo, Zambia begin talks after border closureDemocratic Republic of Congo has said it had begun talks with Zambia a day after its southern African neighbour sealed their common border, blocking a key export route for Congo, the world's second-largest copper producer.Zambian Trade Minister Chipoka Mulenga announced a temporary border closure after a Congolese ban on imported soft drinks and beer led to demonstrations by Congolese transporters in the town of Kasumbalesa on the Zambian border.) Tom Cruise steals show, ignites excitement in Paris 2024 closing ceremonyTom Cruise rappelled into the Paris Games closing ceremony, grabbed the Olympic flag, and sped off, kicking off the countdown to the 2028 Los Angeles Games.A beaming Cruise high-fived athletes after making the roughly 160-foot descent and took the flag from LA Mayor Karen Bass, who was accompanied by US gymnast Simone Biles.Cruise then disappeared beneath the stage before reemerging on a motorcycle with the flag affixed to the back and exited as the crowd at the 80,000-seat stadium roared.
) Algeria seeks urgent UN meeting over Israel's Gaza school attackAlgeria has said it requested an urgent open UN Security Council session next Tuesday to discuss the Israeli attack on the Al Tabin school, killing more than a hundred displaced people in Gaza City.The official Algerian news agency said the "request was made in consultation with the State of Palestine" and "is supported by other member states of the Security Council.") Ukraine's Zelenskyy confirms troops press deeper into Russia's KurskUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the recent offensive into the western Russian border region of Kursk, referring to actions "pushing the war into the aggressor's territory".Zelenskyy said "Ukraine is proving that it can really bring justice and guarantees exactly the kind of pressure that is needed — pressure on the aggressor.") Bangladesh's chief justice, central bank governor resign amid mass protestsBangladeshi officials said the country's chief justice and central bank governor have resigned. Student protests have widened to target more officials appointed during former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s tenure.The law ministry's adviser Asif Nazrul said that Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan resigned after students warned him of "dire consequences" if he did not.) Venezuelan opposition leader calls for mass protestsVenezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado called for mass protests on August 17 to challenge the July 28 presidential election results. She accused the National Electoral Council of fraud, claiming her party’s candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, actually won with 67 percent of the vote. *) Türkiye removes access block as Instagram complies with demandsTürkiye has lifted the access block on Instagram after the platform agreed to comply with Türkiye’s demands, including policies on catalogue crimes. The transportation and infrastructure minister announced the end of the week-long restriction following successful negotiations.
) Israel bombs school in Gaza, killing 100+ PalestiniansIsrael has killed over 100 Palestinians and injured dozens in a strike on a school in Gaza City, according to WAFA news agency. The report states that the school was sheltering displaced Palestinians when it was hit by the Israeli military.) Brazilian airliner crashes, all 62 on board killedA regional turboprop plane carrying 62 people crashed near Sao Paulo in Brazil, killing all on board.Airline Voepass reported that the plane travelling from Parana to São Paulo's main airport crashed in Vinhedo.A video shared on social media showed the ATR-made plane spinning out of control before crashing behind a cluster of trees near houses, followed by a large plume of black smoke.) Maduro-Machado talks unlikely as opposition avoids Venezuela court callVenezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ruled out negotiating with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado after he appeared before the Supreme Court, requesting the ratification of his reelection.The National Electoral Council has yet to release detailed results, while the opposition claims that copies of 84 percent of the ballots show an easy win for their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia.The government says those results are forged.) Muslim healthcare workers in UK face ‘racist abuse’ amid far-right riotsThe British Islamic Medical Association, which represents around 7,000 Muslim healthcare staff, has recorded a significant rise in “racist abuse” against Muslim National Health Service workers following the onset of far-right riots across the UK.The president of the group, Dr Salman Waqar told the Guardian, that they have seen alarming messages, particularly from Belfast and Greater Manchester, where healthcare workers were forced to close their practices early or refrain from home visits due to safety concerns.Another group of 11,000 healthcare professionals, the British Egyptian Medical Association, also echoed similar concerns, noting a “troubling” rise in “racist abuse and discrimination.”*) Algeria's Imane Khelif wins gold in women's boxing at Paris Olympics amid gender debateAlgerian Imane Khelif has won gold in women's boxing at the Paris Olympics amid gender controversy.Khelif was crowned champion after beating Yang Liu from China 5-0 in the 66kg final at Roland-Garros Stadium.The Algerian national had been disqualified from the 2023 World Championships after failing a gender eligibility test. It is Algeria's first gold in women's boxing.
) Mediators invite Israel, Hamas to resume Gaza truce talksIsrael’s war on Gaza has entered its 11th month and mediators are calling on Tel Aviv and the Palestinian resistance group Hamas to resume urgent talks on August 15, either in Doha or Cairo.Qatar, Egypt and the US are leading actors in the mediation to put an end to Israel’s war that has killed nearly 40,000 Palestinians and left the tiny coastal enclave of Gaza in ruins.The mediators say they now have a framework agreement on the table with only the details of the implementation left to conclude.) Haniyeh’s assassination shows Israel doesn’t want ceasefire: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again called upon the international community to stop Israel’s dangerous escalation of its military aggression.Commenting on Israel’s assassination of Hamas’s politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, the Turkish president said Tel Aviv has once again demonstrated its lack of intention to engage in a ceasefire. Erdogan warned that the Israeli war on Gaza could engulf the region into a wider and an even destructive conflict.) Zelenskyy sends tough message to Putin as Ukraine enters Russia’s KurskUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has lauded his troops for storming Russia’s southwestern Kursk region — an incursion called a “major provocation” by Russian President Vladimir Putin.The incursion appears to be the most significant Ukrainian attack in over two years of the conflict.Putin called Kiev’s actions an “indiscriminate attack against civilian facilities, residential buildings and ambulance vehicles”.) Trump recommits to September 10 debate and lashes out at HarrisAfter recently backing out, Republican candidate Donald Trump has recommitted to debating Vice President Kamala Harris.Trump held a lengthy news conference in which he taunted his rival, boasted of his crowd on January 6, 2021, and questioned whether there would be “honest elections” in November.The debate is likely to take place on September 10 on ABC, setting up the first face-to-face match-up between the two rivals in what polls show is an extremely tight race.*) Earth’s record-breaking heat streak ends but climate threat remainsJuly 2024 narrowly misses being the hottest month on record, ending a 13-month streak as El Nino subsides, but experts warn that the climate crisis’ impact is far from over.The European climate agency Copernicus said the overall context hasn’t changed, adding that the Earth’s climate continues to warm.The El Nino effect has ended, the climate agency said, and hence July’s slight easing of temperatures.
) Talks over Gaza truce, prisoner swap stalled — Israeli mediaThe one thing that can stop Israel’s deadly and brutal war on Palestinians is the resolution of the thorny issue of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners that the two sides aim to exchange some time in future. But Israeli media reports suggest that process has come to a stop. KAN, the Israeli public broadcaster, reported that no new meetings are planned between Israeli, Qatari, Egyptian and American security agencies.Now don’t be surprised if reports soon come out that the talks have once again been scuttled by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who has blocked the process on several occasions to prolong his rule. ) Israel ‘admitted’ assassinating Haniyeh to US officials: Washington PostWhile everyone else seems to know that Israel was behind the July 31 assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Tel Aviv has itself remained silent. That’s part of the Israeli modus operandi in such operations where the Zionist state never openly admits responsibility for violating the territorial rights of other countries. But according to the Washington Post, Israeli officials have admitted to their American counterpart that Israel was indeed behind the killing of Haniyeh.) Thousands of anti-racism protesters converge in several UK citiesIn cities across the UK, thousands of anti-racism protesters came out in opposition of far-right groups which have attacked Muslims, immigrants and asylum seekers in recent days. In Walthamstow, north London, several thousand gathered to counter a far-right protest, with similar anti-racism rallies in Birmingham, Bristol and Liverpool.Meanwhile, UK's deputy prime minister announced that police are prepared to respond to nearly 100 acts of violence planned by far-right extremists in London, emphasising that there will be “no excuse” for street violence.) Over 30 people killed, hundreds displaced in Yemen floodingThe poor Middle Eastern country of Yemen has faced devastation from years of war and is now dealing with US bombings against the Houthis. If that wasn’t enough, a flood has killed dozens. In Yemen’s southern city of Hudaida, more than 30 people have died, and hundreds have been displaced due to severe flooding after days of heavy rain.Hudaida Governor Muhammad Qahim reported that 500 homes were also affected, with five people still missing. The southwestern city of Taiz and the northwestern city of Hajjah were also severely impacted by the floods, which have devastated poorly built homes and infrastructure across the region. Authorities are struggling to reach the worst-hit areas, leaving many residents stranded without food and water.And finally…*) Microsoft employees demand halt to funding of illegal Israeli settlementsMicrosoft’s charitable giving platform has been criticised for featuring organisations operating in illegal Israeli settlements while removing the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.An internal petition from employees says that donations to illegal Israeli settlements violate international law under the Geneva Conventions.The petition also accuses that Microsoft’s actions contradict its inclusive values and calls for the cessation of matching donations to these organisations. Microsoft has yet to comment on the matter.
) Hamas appoints Yahya Sinwar as new political bureau chiefPalestinian resistance group Hamas has appointed Yahya Sinwar as its new political chief.Sinwar will replace Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated by Israel in Tehran after he attended the swearing-in ceremony of the new Iranian president on July 31.Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Hezbollah congratulated Sinwar on becoming the resistance group’s new political chief, saying it shows Israel’s goals in assassinating his predecessor, Haniyeh, have failed.) B’Tselem report reveals Israeli torture of PalestiniansA report by Israeli human rights group B’Tselem reveals widespread torture of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons, with most held without trial.The report details deaths and abuses, with 60 Palestinians dying in custody since October, yet no prosecutions have followed.Testimonies document severe violence, starvation, and denial of medical care, highlighting ongoing human rights violations.) Muhammad Yunus to head transitional government in BangladeshFollowing the ouster of Sheikh Hasina and an end to her 15-year rule, Bangladesh’s lone Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus will serve as the head of the country’s transitional government.Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin said the decision was reached after consultations with all stakeholders.Yunus will fill the vacuum left by Hasina, who resigned and fled the country after student-led countrywide protests against the quota system turned violent.) Kamala Harris picks Tim Walz as running mate for US electionDemocratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.Walz, a 60-year-old US Army National Guard veteran and former teacher, was elected to a Republican-leaning district in the US House of Representatives in 2006 and served 12 years before being elected governor of Minnesota in 2018.He is known for his support for Israel throughout his career, while also advocating for more aid to the Palestinians and recently calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and a two-state solution.And finally…*) More countries issue travel advisories as UK far-right riots continueAs the far-right riots continue in the UK, more and more countries are issuing travel warnings for their citizens.The UAE, Kenya and India are the latest in the list to have issued warning and advisory to their nationals already in the UK or those intending to travel.Previously, Nigeria, Malaysia, Australia and Indonesia also issued warnings against UK travel amid riots.
) Haniyeh’s assassination aimed at prolonging Gaza war: AbbasPalestine’s President Mahmoud Abbas has told Russia’s state media that the killing of Hamas politburo leader Ismail Haniyeh aims to prolong the war in besieged Gaza and complicate peace talks. He said: “There is no doubt that the purpose of Mr. Haniyeh’s assassination is to prolong the war and expand its scope.”He went on to say that Israel’s conduct “will have a negative impact on the ongoing negotiations to end the aggression and withdraw Israeli troops from Gaza”.) Bangladesh protesters call for new govt under Nobel laureate Muhammad YunusThe Bangladeshi students who led the protests which toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government want a new interim government with Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus as its leader. They have warned that any government other than the one protesters have asked for would not be accepted.Yunus has agreed to take on this responsibility. ) Israel fails to recruit hundreds of Ultra-Orthodox Jews for Gaza genocideTel Aviv continues to struggle with the headache of enlisting orthodox Jews into its military, which is fighting a never-ending war with Hamas in Gaza. The Israeli military has once again failed to register hundreds of Haredi Jews for military service.The Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported that only 30 Haredi Jews appeared at the conscription office, despite 1,000 being scheduled to register on Monday and Tuesday.) Several countries issue UK travel advisory amid far-right violenceSome would say that the UK is getting to taste its own medicine as another country has warned its citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to the UK amid violent far-right riots. Nigeria has joined Malaysia and Australia in issuing travel advisories for the UK. The UK is experiencing its worst wave of riots in 13 years, with far-right demonstrators targeting asylum seekers, mosques and ethnic minorities across the country.And finally…*) Türkiye to join genocide case against Israel at ICJPresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that Türkiye will submit an application to join the world court genocide case against Israel.Erdogan said the country’s parliamentary legal team will submit a petition to join the genocide case against Israel to the International Court of Justice in The Hague on Wednesday.He emphasised Türkiye’s commitment to ending the “barbarism” that has claimed the lives of nearly 40,000 innocents in Gaza over the past ten months.
NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, August 5th.) Israel’s Netanyahu sets new demands on Gaza prisoner swap dealIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has added new conditions to a proposed hostage swap deal with Hamas, including exiling around 150 Palestinian prisoners from the country, according to local media.Among the conditions is the deportation of some Palestinian prisoners who will be released from Israeli prisons to foreign countries, Israel’s Channel 13 reported, citing unnamed sources.The US, Qatar, and Egypt have been trying to broker a prisoner exchange and ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, but efforts have stalled due to Netanyahu's refusal to meet Hamas's demands to stop the war.) Sirens blare as missiles, UAVs fired from Lebanon target northern IsraelMissiles and unmanned aerial vehicles were reportedly launched from Lebanese territory into northern Israel, an Israeli official said.An official spokesperson for the Israeli army confirmed to Anadolu news agency that projectiles originated from Lebanon and targeted northern regions of Israel.The spokesperson refrained from providing details regarding any casualties or injuries resulting from the attacks.) New violence kills scores in Bangladesh, students seek Hasina’s resignationAt least 93 people have been killed while hundreds of others injured across Bangladesh as students took to the streets demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, local media reported.The country’s Prothom Alo daily reported that the people were killed in more than 15 districts as governing party armed groups swooped on protesters and opened fire.Authorities declared a three-day public holiday as people were killed in clashes between protesters on one side and police and governing Awami League party supporters on the other side.) North Korea unveils 250 missile launchers, boosts nuclear readinessNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the delivery of a new tactical ballistic missile system to troops, state media reported.Kim also gave a speech at the ceremonial event in Pyongyang where 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers were unveiled.The launchers have been described by state media as a powerful up-to-date tactical attack weapon “personally designed by Kim and ready to be transferred to KPA units”.And finally…*) UK far-right protesters target Birmingham asylum hotel with projectilesA hotel known to have sheltered asylum seekers was targeted near the central English city of Birmingham, police said, as violent anti-immigration rallies led by far-right protesters shake parts of Britain.“A large group of individuals” have been “throwing projectiles, smashing windows, starting fires and targeting police” at the hotel in the town of Tamworth, with one officer injured, Staffordshire Police said in a statement.Riots first flared in Southport following a frenzied knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party in the northwest coastal city, before spreading up and down England.
) Israel’s Gaza mediators leave Egypt amid disputes with NetanyahuAccording to media reports, an Israeli negotiating team left Cairo and returned to Tel Aviv shortly after arriving Saturday to resume discussions on a hostage swap deal with Palestinian factions.A local newspaper has reported that the team returned to Tel Aviv due to disagreements with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.Israeli news website Walla said the delegation’s departure to Cairo was influenced by heavy American pressure on Israel and Egypt to continue negotiations on the hostage deal despite the recent assassination of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh.) Bangladesh students call for nationwide civil disobedienceStudent leaders in Bangladesh have called for a nationwide civil disobedience campaign as the government faces increasing backlash over a deadly police crackdown on protesters.Students Against Discrimination, the group behind the initial protests, has urged citizens to begin an all-out non-cooperation movement from Sunday. The students are demanding a public apology from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for last month’s violence and the dismissal of several of her ministers, along with reopening of schools and universities.) 37 people killed by suicide bombing in Somali capital: policeRaising the initial death toll from seven, police has said that at least 37 people have been killed and scores wounded following a suicide bombing and gun attack at a popular beach in the Somali capital. Eleven people are in intensive care units, a further 64 people remain in hospital with wounds, while 137 people with light injuries have been discharged after receiving treatment, Somali Health Minister Ali Haji Adam told journalists late Saturday. The Al Qaeda-linked terror group Al Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack in the Horn of Africa country.) UK gripped by far-right violence, police under attackSeveral police officers were injured in clashes between far-right protesters and anti-fascist demonstrators as rival protests erupted in several UK cities.Authorities have arrested several people following the clashes as they struggle to maintain order. According to local media,the situation has been particularly tense in Liverpool.Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his support for law enforcement, urging them to take decisive action against those who “sow hate” and intimidate communities.*) Google pulls Gemini AI ad after backlash from Olympics viewersGoogle has confirmed it pulled an ad for its Gemini artificial intelligence after it received negative reactions from some Olympics viewers.The “Dear Sydney” ad showcased a dad describing how Gemini AI wrote his daughter a fan letter to US hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.Social media posts across various platforms questioned whether the ad signalled a dystopian future where human creativity diminishes due to AI.
) Israel, US preparing for 'unpredictable' Iranian retaliationIsrael and the US are preparing for an "unpredictable Iranian retaliatory strike on Israel as soon as this weekend," the Wall Street Journal has reported."There is no point. Israel crossed all the red lines. Our response will be swift and heavy," the Journal quoted an Iranian diplomat.The diplomat said attempts by various countries to convince Tehran not to escalate had been and would be "fruitless" given Israel's recent attacks, according to the newspaper.) Türkiye slams Israeli FM's baseless remarks targeting President ErdoganSeveral Turkish officials have slammed Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz's recent post targeting Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.Türkiye’s foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, said, “Israel Katz’s obsession with constantly targeting our country and our esteemed President with his delusions instead of fulfilling his duties as foreign minister is a complete sickness.”Turkish Communications Director Fahrettin Altun also denounced Katz's post targeting Erdogan, saying Türkiye has nothing to learn from "bloodthirsty genocidal murderers".) Causalities feared as massive blast rocks Somali capital MogadishuA huge explosion has rocked the Somali capital Mogadishu with police fearing casualties and reporting gunfire shots shortly after the blast.The explosion occurred on Mogadishu's popular Lido beach, followed by gunfire.Police official Ahmed Abdi said that officers from law enforcement and various security agencies rushed to the beach."We don't know the exact cause of the explosion, but it appears to be a suicide attack," said Abdi.) Far-right overwhelms UK as another city explodes in anti-Muslim riotsRioting has erupted in Sunderland, northeast England, where police faced "serious and sustained levels of violence." The unrest follows the killing of three young girls by a non-Muslim suspect, which far-right groups have exploited to incite anti-Muslim sentiment. According to the local media, the far-right mob surrounded a mosque in Sunderland and also chanted Islamophobic slogans.*) Intel cuts over 15 pct of its workforce to streamline operationsUS chip maker Intel said it will slash more than 15 percent of its workforce as it streamlines operations.The plan to cut approximately $20 billion in expenses this year came as Intel reported a loss of $1.6 billion in the recently ended quarter."By implementing our spending reductions, we are taking proactive steps to improve our profits and strengthen our balance sheet," chief financial officer David Zinsner said.
) Türkiye mediates historic prisoner exchange between Western nations and RussiaTurkish intelligence coordinated a major prisoner exchange between Russia and the West, involving 26 individuals from seven countries.The operation, facilitated by the Turkish National Intelligence Agency (MIT), is the most extensive in recent years.Hostages were transferred to Türkiye via seven aircraft, with 10 sent to Russia, 13 to Germany, and three to the US.High-profile individuals like Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and US Marine Paul Whelan were among those exchanged.) Qatar holds funeral for Israel-assassinated Hamas political leader HaniyehQatar is holding funeral services for Hamas political leader and peace negotiator Ismail Haniyeh after his assassination by Israel.Haniyeh will be buried in Lusail after prayers at Doha's largest mosque, which will be attended by prominent figures.Türkiye and Pakistan announced a day of mourning, while Hamas called for protests to mark the funeral.) Hezbollah launches dozens of rockets at IsraelAt least 60 rockets were launched from southern Lebanon into northern Israel late Thursday, marking the first attack since Israel assassinated Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.Israel’s public broadcaster, KAN, reported that rockets were directed at the Western Galilee, with 15 being intercepted and no injuries reported.The assassination of Shukr, who was blamed for a missile attack killing 12 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, has heightened fears of a full-blown war.Hezbollah has denied role in the attack but has vowed a “real response.”) Protests erupt across Nigeria over soaring living costsThousands of Nigerians protested nationwide against soaring living costs, sparked by government policies.Security forces used tear gas and live rounds to disperse demonstrations in Kano and Abuja, leading to clashes and property damage.Protesters, facing hunger and economic hardship, demanded government intervention to address the crisis.Curfews were imposed in multiple cities as authorities struggled to contain the unrest.*) Turkish shooter captivates social media at Paris 2024Turkish pistol shooter Yusuf Dikec became an internet sensation for his casual look during the Olympics.Despite wearing a T-shirt and glasses, Dikec and his female partner Sevval Ilayda Tarhan won Türkiye’s first-ever Olympic shooting medal.Dikec embraces the online fame, while his teammate Tarhan also sported a relaxed style.He did not choose to wear headgear such as a blindfold over one eye, a lens over the other, and a large pair of ear defenders.
) Israel's war on Gaza reaches 300 days with about 39,500 Palestinians killedIsrael's war on Gaza has reached 300 days, with over 39,445 Palestinians killed and 91,000 wounded.Gaza faces a severe blockade, leading to dire shortages of food, water, and medicine. The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to halt its military invasion in Rafah. Assassinations in Lebanon and Iran by Israel have heightened regional tensions, risking further escalation.) UN says jailed Palestinians abused, blindfolded, fed alcohol by IsraelThe United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has released a report detailing severe abuses faced by Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons since October 2023.The report highlights inhumane treatment, including extreme physical abuse, prolonged blindfolding, and deprivation of basic needs.Disturbing accounts also reveal the use of attack dogs, electric shocks, and sexual violence against detainees. OHCHR criticises the lack of legal justification for many detentions and the denial of access to legal representation for detainees.) Netanyahu says ready for 'every scenario' after murdering Haniyeh in IranIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared his country is ready for any scenario after assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.He stated that recent operations targeted Hamas' and Hezbollah's senior figures, emphasising Israel's readiness for future threats.) Algeria, China, Russia blast Israel at UNSC over Haniyeh assassinationThe UN Security Council condemned the Israeli assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.China and Algeria denounced the attack, calling it a violation of international law. Russia warned the incident could provoke widespread conflict in the Middle East.Separately, Türkiye strongly condemned the assassination, with top Turkish diplomat Hakan Fidan saying that Israel has also killed peace.*) Boeing appoints veteran new CEO amid company turmoilBoeing appointed Robert "Kelly" Ortberg as its new CEO, following David Calhoun's retirement. Ortberg, former CEO of avionics and information technology company Rockwell Collins, aims to tackle Boeing's legal, regulatory, and production issues. Boeing also reported a $1.4 billion loss in Q2, with both its commercial and defence units underperforming. The company's reputation suffers amid ongoing safety investigations and production challenges.
) Hamas says leader Ismail Haniyeh killed by Israel in IranIsmail Haniyeh, the political chief of Palestinian resistance group Hamas, has been killed in Iran, according to a statement from Hamas and Iranian officials.Hamas said its leader was killed early on Wednesday following an Israeli raid targeting his residence in Tehran.In a statement, the group mourned the death of Haniyeh, 62, who it said was killed in “a treacherous Zionist raid on his residence in Tehran after participating in the inauguration ceremony of the new Iranian president.”) Hamas vows assassination of Haniyeh won’t ‘go unpunished’Hamas has said the assassination of senior leader Ismail Haniyeh is a “grave escalation”.Al-Aqsa TV cited senior Hamas official Moussa Abu Marzouk saying the assassination of the Hamas leader is a “cowardly act that will not go unpunished”.Hamas and Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed the killing of Haniyeh during his visit to Iran, with Hamas saying Israel targeted his residence in Tehran.) Druze reject Netanyahu'’s attempt to exploit Golan Heights tragedyMourning Druze of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights have distanced themselves from Israeli attack on Lebanon.Druze accused Israeli leaders of leveraging their tragedy for political gains.Scores of Majdal Shams residents came out to protest Netanyahu’s visit, many donning traditional Druze caps, saying the community rejects the “attempt to exploit the name of Majdal Shams as a political platform at the expense of the blood of our children”.) India mobilises military as landslide death toll jumps in KeralaMultiple landslides triggered by torrential rains in southern India have killed at least 122 people, and many others are feared trapped under the debris, officials said, with rescue operations being hampered by bad weather.The landslides hit hilly villages in Kerala state’s Wayanad district early on Tuesday and destroyed many houses and a bridge, but authorities have yet to determine the full scope of the disaster.Rescuers were working to pull out people stuck under mud and debris, but their efforts were hampered due to blocked roads and unstable terrain.*) US anti-Muslim incidents rise by 70% in first half of 2024: CAIRDiscrimination and attacks against Muslims and Palestinians have risen by about 70 percent in the US in the first half of 2024 amid heightened anti-Muslim hate due to Israel’s war in Gaza, the Council on American-Islamic Relations advocacy group said.Human rights advocates have reported a global rise in anti-Muslim hate and anti-Palestinian sentiment since the eruption in October 2023 of Israel’s war on Gaza which has killed tens of thousands civilians and caused a humanitarian crisis.In the first six months of 2024, CAIR said it received 4,951 complaints of anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian incidents, a rise of nearly 70 percent compared with the same period in 2023.
) Hezbollah moves missiles as Israel threatens to attack LebanonLebanon’s Hezbollah has begun moving precision-guided missiles as Israel threatens to attack Lebanon.An official with the Lebanese group said that Hezbollah’s stance remains unchanged. While the group does not seek a full-blown war with US-backed Israel, it will fight without limits if war breaks out.Hezbollah says it will continue skirmishes with the Israeli military until Tel Aviv ends its “genocidal war” on besieged Gaza.) RSF bombardment in Sudan’s Al Fasher kills 65: activistsAccording to activists, at least 65 people, mostly children, have been killed since Saturday in bombardments by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Sudan’s Al Fasher city in Darfur region.The Al Fasher Resistance Committees reported that more than 70 rockets were launched in just one day by the RSF-linked militia known as the Janjaweed at hospitals, homes, mosques, and markets.Al Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, is the national army’s last remaining position in the Darfur region and a key front in the war with the RSF, which has turned Sudan into the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.) US announces $1.7B in new military aid for UkraineThe United States has announced new military aid for Ukraine valued at around $1.7 billion, including air defence munitions and artillery rounds that Kiev’s forces say they urgently need.Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his deep gratitude to US President Joe Biden, the US Congress, and the American people for the assistance in a social media post. The United States has been a key military backer of Ukraine, committing more than $55 billion in weapons, ammunition, and other security assistance since Russia’s attacks began in February 2022.) Venezuela recalling envoys from 7 countries opposing Maduro’s winVenezuela has announced it is withdrawing its diplomatic staff from seven Latin American countries that questioned the election victory of President Nicolas Maduro.In a statement, the Foreign Ministry rejected the “interventionist actions and statements” of the governments of Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay, which signed a joint statement calling for a complete review of the election results.This decision follows the National Electoral Council’s announcement of Maduro’s victory, granting him a third six-year term as the country’s leader.*) Seine pollution again shuts down Paris 2024 triathlon trainingOlympic organisers have cancelled a third day of triathlon training in the Seine River, after weekend downpours in Paris polluted the waterway.However, they remain “confident” the medal events will proceed as scheduled this week.The triathlon is the first Olympic event slated for the Seine, with marathon swimming set for the second week of the Games. Sunday’s and Monday’s swimming training sessions were also cancelled due to pollution levels.
) Powerful Turkish defence can stop Israel’s war on Palestinians: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Türkiye would prevent Israel’s brutal attacks on Palestinians in the event of Ankara being “very strong” in the defence industry.Speaking in his hometown in the northeastern province of Rize, the Turkish president emphasised Türkiye’s advancements in the defence industry and expressed confidence in further progress.Erdogan said, “Just as we entered Karabakh, just as we entered Libya, we can do the same to them. There is no reason not to do it. We just need to be strong so that we can take these steps.”) UK’s Starmer urges Israel to take steps towards Gaza ceasefireBritish Prime Minister Keir Starmer has told Israeli President Isaac Herzog there needed to be “immediate steps” towards a ceasefire in Israel’s war on Gaza.“The Prime Minister said there must be immediate steps towards a ceasefire, so that hostages can be released and more humanitarian aid can get in for those in desperate need,” Starmer’s office said in a statement.) Venezuela’s Maduro wins re-election with 51.2% of vote: electoral councilVenezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro has won re-election to a third six-year term with 51.2 percent of votes cast Sunday, the electoral council announced.Elvis Amoroso, president of the CNE electoral body loyal to the government, told reporters 44.2 percent of the vote had gone to opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia who had been leading in polls.) Bangladesh students vow to resume protests unless leaders freedA Bangladeshi student group has vowed to resume protests that sparked a lethal police crackdown and nationwide unrest unless several of their leaders are released from custody.Members of Students Against Discrimination, whose campaign against civil service job quotas precipitated the unrest, said they would end their weeklong protest moratorium.The group’s chief Nahid Islam and others “should be freed and the cases against them must be withdrawn”, a member told reporters in an online briefing late on Saturday.*) Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention prefer death over jail brutalitySeven Palestinian detainees have attempted to kill themselves at Israel’s Ofer military prison in the occupied West Bank due to the “brutality of jailers”, Palestinian authorities have said.“Prisoners are subjected to beatings during arrest and in detention,” the Commission of Detainees’ Affairs said in a statement.It added that “if a prisoner is late for the count or late waking up at 4 am, (they are) beaten and abused”.
) Israel intensifies its deadly raids on West Bank’s refugee campThe Israeli army stormed the Balata refugee camp in eastern Nablus in the northern part of the occupied West Bank for the fourth time in 24 hours.The Palestinian news agency, Wafa, reported that military forces stormed the camp amid heavy gunfire, the deployment of snipers and the arrival of reinforcements, accompanied by a bulldozer.Activists on social media shared videos allegedly showing military reinforcements heading toward the camp, and videos that had the sounds of gunfire, which they claimed were from clashes between Palestinian groups and the Israeli army.) Applause for Netanyahu ‘major eclipse of reason’: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed shame “in the name of humanity” over the incident in the US Congress, which not only hosted but applauded Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu, the main architect of the massacres in Palestine’s Gaza.Erdogan said, “This is a major eclipse of reason for America to spread out the red carpet for someone like Netanyahu and then applaud his lies till their palms swell.”The president voiced concern that “the killer of 40,000 innocent people” received applause from an institution such as the US Congress.) North Korea vows ‘total destruction’ of enemies if Kim Jong-un orders warNorth Korea vowed to “totally destroy” its enemies in case of war when leader Kim Jong-un gives an order, state media reported.Senior military officials made the comments “out of surging hatred” towards the US and South Korea at a meeting attended by Kim to celebrate the 71st Korean War armistice anniversary.North Korea and the United States do not have diplomatic ties and talks over reducing tensions and denuclearizing North Korea have been stalled since 2019.) UK government declares country ‘broke and broken’Britain’s government declared the country was “broke and broken” ahead of an assessment of the public finances.Elected to run the world’s sixth-largest economy in a victory on July 4, Labour has spent much of its first three weeks in power telling the public that things are worse than expected in almost every area of public policy.Finance minister Rachel Reeves will set out the findings of a fiscal review in a statement to parliament that will accuse the Conservative Party of making unfunded spending commitments to try to win public support.And finally…*) ‘Explosion’ threat evacuates Paris media centre during GamesFrench police temporarily closed the area around the media centre that is serving journalists covering the Paris Olympic Games because of an “explosion risk”.Journalists and citizens were evacuated and the cause of the risk was not disclosed.Police later reopened the area to pedestrian traffic and access to and from the media centre returned to normal.
) Gaza experiencing world's worst food crisis: UN reportGaza, where 80% of the population is internally displaced, faces the world's worst food crisis, according to a new UN report. The "2024 Food Security and Nutrition in the World" report by the FAO, WFP, IFAD, UNICEF, and WHO highlights severe food insecurity in Gaza due to the Israeli siege. This crisis is more severe than in South Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and nearly as severe as in Haiti.) UK ends challenge to ICC's jurisdiction over arrest warrant on NetanyahuBritain's new government announced it is dropping its predecessor's objection to the ICC's jurisdiction to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.The new government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the Labour Party, stated that this decision aligns with their position that the matter should be left to the court to decide, emphasising their commitment to the rule of law and the separation of powers.) Türkiye to channel $30B into high-tech investments: President ErdoganPresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that Türkiye will direct 30 billion dollars in tax incentives and grant support to high technology investments.Speaking at the High Technology Incentive Program introduction ceremony in Istanbul, Erdogan said Türkiye aims to become a regional hub in battery production. The country will offer a 4.5 billion dollars incentive package to investors.Türkiye is also launching a $5 billion dollars incentive package to boost its automotive sector production capacity to at least one million units per year.) G20 commits to effective taxation of the ultra-wealthyThe G20 said that the group agreed on working to make sure super-rich individuals around the world are effectively taxed.The group said it is important for all taxpayers, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals, to contribute their fair share in taxes.Despite the consensus on taxing the super-rich, mechanisms of achieving the goal remain vague.*) Historic river parade ignites PARIS 2024 opening spectacleA historic boat parade on the River Seine launched the Paris 2024 Olympics, celebrating togetherness and unity. Despite heavy rain, 300,000 people lined the riverbanks to cheer competitors passing iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame. This display marked the first time the opening ceremony was held outside the main stadium, making it the largest launch in Olympic history.
) US arrests top Mexican drug lords 'El Mayo' and 'El Chapo' in TexasThe US Justice Department has announced Mexican drug lord Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada and the son of his former partner, Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, were arrested in Texas."The Justice Department has taken into custody two additional alleged leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the most violent and powerful drug trafficking organisations in the world," the department said in a statement.) Palestinian leader dies in Israeli custody in West BankThe Palestinian Commission of Detainees Affairs said a Palestinian leader in the occupied West Bank has died in Israeli custody following a significant deterioration in his health.The Palestinian government body said in a statement that Mustafa Muhammad Abu Ara, 63, died after being transferred to a hospital from the Ramon jail in southern Israel.) Bangladesh continues curfew amid mass arrests of protestersBangladesh has announced that a curfew will continue on Friday and Saturday with a nine-hour pause amid an intensified crackdown against those involved in violence during student protests.Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan made an announcement at a news conference that the curfew will continue in Dhaka and three other cities.) Sri Lanka announces first presidential election since unrestSri Lanka's first presidential elections since an unprecedented economic crisis spurred widespread unrest will be held in September.The election will be the first test of the public mood since the height of the 2022 downturn, which caused months of food, fuel and medicine shortages across the island nation.*) Countdown begins as France set for PARIS 2024 opening ceremonyParis is counting down the hours to what promises to be the most ambitious Olympics opening ceremony in history, set to unfold on the River Seine today.The show will see up to 7,500 competitors sail down a six-kilometre stretch of the Seine on 90 boats, accompanied by a performance blending French culture and Olympic values that organisers promise will be spectacular.The Paris ceremony will take place in front of 300,000 spectators and an audience of VIPs and celebrities from around the world.
) Israeli opposition leaders slam Netanyahu's speech to US CongressIsraeli opposition leaders sharply criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to the US Congress.Yair Lapid, the leader of the There Is a Future Party, accused the prime minister of failing to address a prisoner exchange deal with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas.Lapid called the address "disgraceful” and said, “An hour of talking without uttering the single sentence: 'There will be a kidnapping deal.”) Türkiye says could be part of mechanism in case of two-state solution dealTürkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned that without the immediate implementation of the two-state solution, a fourth Gaza war is inevitable.In an interview with Sky News Arabia, Fidan said that if an agreement on a two-state solution is reached in Gaza, Türkiye can participate in the guarantor mechanism that Ankara proposed.) US Senator Bob Menendez steps down following corruption convictionUS Senator Bob Menendez submitted his resignation in the aftermath of his conviction on corruption charges including bribery and acting as an agent for a foreign government, bowing to pressure from fellow Democrats to give up the job.Democratic New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy will appoint a replacement for Menendez, who has served in the Senate since 2006 and was the Foreign Relations Committee chairman until charged last year.) Several dead, over 150 missing after boat capsizes off Mauritania: IOMThe International Organization for Migration said at least 15 people have been killed and more than 150 missing after a boat carrying 300 passengers capsized near Mauritania's capital Nouakchott on Wednesday.The organisation said the Mauritanian coastguard rescued 120 people and that 10 of them were taken to hospitals while efforts to locate the missing continued.*) Brazil's Lula launches global effort to end hunger, poverty at G20 summitBrazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has kicked off a global effort to end hunger and extreme poverty, aiming to make it a hallmark of Brazil's G20 presidency as he seeks to restore the country's soft power on the world stage.Lula said "Nothing is as absurd and unacceptable in the 21st century as the persistence of hunger and poverty, when we have so much abundance and so many scientific and technological resources at our disposal.”
) Netanyahu visit sparks wave of protests in DC, with all sides criticising the Israeli PMThe arrival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has touched off a flurry of protests in the US capital, including a sit-in at a congressional office building that ended with multiple arrests.Some of the demonstrations have condemned Israel but others have expressed support while pressuring Netanyahu to strike a ceasefire deal and bring home the hostages.Dozens of protesters rallied outside his hotel Monday evening, and on Tuesday afternoon, hundreds of demonstrators staged a flash mob-style protest in the Cannon Building, which houses offices of House of Representatives members.) WHO ‘extremely worried’ over possible polio outbreak in GazaA top WHO official said he was “extremely worried” over possible outbreaks in war-torn Gaza after poliovirus was detected in the sewage.The official warned that communicable diseases could cause more deaths than injuries.But since human samples were yet to be collected, according to the WHO, it remained unclear if anyone was actually infected with the virus.) Secret Service asks Trump to cancel outdoor rallies: reportIn a dramatic turn of events, the US Secret Service has thrown a major wrench into former US president Donald Trump’s campaign plans following a harrowing assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13.According to the Washington Post, the Secret Service has asked Trump’s team to stop large outdoor rallies and events, reflecting concerns over the former president’s safety.The assassination attempt has prompted the Secret Service to re-evaluate the risks associated with Trump’s public appearances.) Death toll soars to over 200 in Ethiopia landslideUsing shovels or their bare hands, local residents searched desperately for survivors after a landslide in a remote area of southern Ethiopia killed at least 229 people.It is reported to be the deadliest disaster recorded in the Horn of Africa nation.So far, 148 men and 81 women are confirmed to have lost their lives after the disaster struck in the Kencho-Shacha locality in the Gofa Zone on Monday.And finally…*) IOC mulls Palestinian call for Israel ban from Paris 2024The International Olympic Committee has been weighing a Palestinian call for Israeli athletes to be barred from the Games over the war in Gaza, three days before the Opening Ceremony in Paris.As the Israeli Olympic team settled into the Athletes’ Village on Tuesday, the IOC was studying a letter sent by the Palestine Olympic Committee to President Thomas Bach.The letter sent on Monday asked him to ban the Israelis, citing the bombings of besieged Gaza as a breach of the Olympic truce.
) Pro-Palestine protesters demonstrate against Netanyahu in USPro-Palestine protesters gathered outside Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hotel in Washington DC before he addresses the US Congress.Protesters carried placards that read: “Arrest Netanyahu” and “A war criminal stays here”, referring to the hawkish Israeli premier responsible for the death of thousands of innocent Palestinian civilians.) Israel wants to remain allies with US after Biden: NetanyahuIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will be the United States’ strongest ally in the Middle East regardless of who is elected president in the upcoming US elections.The visit, however, has been overshadowed by President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek reelection.Netanyahu said he would thank Biden for all he has done for Israel throughout his career and discuss with him issues such as securing the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza.) Kamala Harris surpasses support needed to become Democratic party’s nomineeUS Vice President Kamala Harris said she has secured the broad support needed to become the Democratic party’s nominee for the upcoming presidential election.Haris said she looks “forward to formally accepting nomination soon”, adding that she is “proud” to have enough delegates for the Democratic party.According to an Associated Press tally, Harris had 2,214 delegates by Monday night, well beyond the simple majority needed to clinch the nomination on the first ballot.) Türkiye warns against treating Syria terror groups as ‘legitimate actors’Türkiye’s envoy to the UN, Ahmet Yildiz, has warned that terrorist organisations in Syria should not be treated as “legitimate actors”, urging the preservation of Syria’s territorial integrity and political unity.Addressing a UN Security Council meeting on the political process and the humanitarian situation in Syria, the Turkish envoy warned that “the terrorist organisations commit grave human rights violations against local people in northeast Syria”.The Turkish diplomat described the humanitarian situation in the country as “catastrophic” and “worsening” and reassured Türkiye’s stance, saying it will continue its efforts to ensure peace in the region.*) Landslides wreak havoc, kill dozens in southern EthiopiaAt least 55 people have been killed in two landslides in a remote area of southern Ethiopia, local authorities said, warning that the death toll could rise.The first landslide occurred around 0700 GMT following heavy rains in the remote region.Authorities said the search for survivors was “continuing vigorously”.
) Joe Biden withdraws from US presidential raceUS President Joe Biden has ended his reelection campaign after fellow Democrats lost faith in his mental acuity and ability to beat Donald Trump. His decision to quit leaves the presidential race in uncharted territory.Biden, in a post on X, said he will remain in his role as president and commander-in-chief until his term ends in January 2025 and will address the nation this week.) Israel demolishes Palestinian shops, excavate land amid Gaza warThe Israeli army has demolished two commercial establishments and excavated land belonging to Palestinians in Beit Hanina in occupied East Jerusalem.The Israeli army raided the town of Beit Hanina, demolishing a commercial shop and a car showroom, and excavating land, according to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa.The agency did not mention the reason for the Israeli army taking this measure, but it usually uses “construction without a permit” as an excuse for demolishing Palestinians’ homes in occupied Palestinian territories.) Protestors ready for massive rally in US heartland during Netanyahu’s visitActivists opposing Israel’s war on Gaza and Washington’s continuous support for its Middle Eastern ally plan protests at the US Capitol on Wednesday to coincide with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s US visit this week.Police expect a “large number of demonstrators” and were making additional security arrangements but said there were no known threats.Netanyahu will be in Washington this week for a July 24 address to a joint session of the US Congress. He is also expected to meet US President Joe Biden.) Bangladesh’s top court scales back job quotasBangladesh’s Supreme Court has scrapped most of the quotas on government jobs that have sparked student-led protests in the South Asian country.The court’s Appellate Division dismissed a lower court order that had reinstated the quotas, directing that 93% of government jobs will be open to candidates on merit, without quotas.Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government had scrapped the quota system in 2018, but the lower court reinstated it last month, sparking protests and an ensuing government crackdown.*) Indian Muslim group condemns ‘discriminatory’ eateries orderAn Indian Muslim group has raised concern about the Uttar Pradesh state’s government “discriminatory” order for eateries to identify their owners.The UP state government earlier asked eateries — including roadside carts — to display the names of their owners to “avoid confusion” during a Hindu holy pilgrimage when thousands of worshippers will make the journey on foot.Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, India’s largest socio-religious Muslim organisation, expressed concern about the order, calling it “completely discriminatory” and a “communal decision.” The group said there is “fear of serious damage to communal harmony.”
) Israeli air strikes kill ten Palestinians in central Gaza homesAt least ten Palestinians were killed in Israeli air strikes that targeted two houses in central Gaza.The Al Awda Hospital said in a statement that it received four bodies and several victims who were injured as a result of an Israeli aircraft targeting a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp.Gaza’s Civil Defence also reported via Telegram that six Palestinians were killed and others injured in an Israeli shelling of a house in the Bureij camp.) Israelis demand swap deal, early elections amid Netanyahu’s Gaza invasionDemonstrations were held in several cities in Israel to demand a prisoner swap deal with Palestinian factions in Gaza and early elections, according to media reports.Thousands protested across the nation, including in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Caesarea to insist on a deal that would lead to the release of hostages in Gaza, an Israeli daily reported.In Tel Aviv, demonstrators held banners accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “not caring about the lives of hostages held in Gaza.”) Shoot-on-sight orders in Bangladesh as army patrols Dhaka streetsPolice imposed a strict curfew with a “shoot-on-sight” order across Bangladesh as military forces patrolled parts of the capital after scores were killed and hundreds injured in clashes over the allocation of civil service jobs.The curfew began at midnight and was relaxed from noon for people to run essential errands, and is expected to last until Sunday morning, allowing officers to fire on mobs in extreme cases.The demonstrations called for mainly by student groups started weeks ago to protest a quota system that reserves up to 30 percent of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971.) French police fire tear gas at protesters to clear port blockadeFrench police have removed demonstrators from the western port of La Rochelle with tear gas, as environmentalists and small farmers mobilised against massive irrigation reservoirs under construction.Around 200 people had entered the La Pallice port terminal, including farmers with old tractors, setting up a street party with music and drinks outside a major grain trader’s facility.More than a dozen police vans and an armoured vehicle pushed them out during the morning in a cloud of tear gas, while other police vehicles blocked off access to the port.*) Greece decides to close several Turkish minority schools: reportGreece will close four Turkish minority primary schools in Western Thrace, where Turks are densely populated, local media reported.The affected schools are the Hacioren, Keziren and Payamlar primary schools in Rhodope and the Karakoy primary school in Xanthi (Iskece) in northern Greece.Authorities claim the closures are suspensions due to a “lack of students”, but the Turkish minority sees it as an attempt to send students to Greek public schools.
) ICJ’s landmark ruling declares Israeli occupation of Palestine illegalThe International Court of Justice has ruled that the occupied Palestinian territories constitute a “single territorial unity,” which will be protected and respected.Stressing that The Hague regulations have become part of customary international law, and are thus binding on Israel, the court said, “Protection offered by the Human Rights Convention does not cease in case of armed conflict or occupation.”In reference to Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories, the court noted that Israel’s “exploitation of natural resources” in occupied Palestinian territory is “inconsistent with its obligation” to respect Palestinians’ right to sovereignty.) Biden and Netanyahu to discuss Gaza ceasefire, hostage dealWhite House National Security Council Adviser Jake Sullivan has said President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will discuss ways to reach a deal on a ceasefire in besieged Gaza and the return of hostages during their meeting.Sullivan told Aspen Security Forum in Colorado that the “overriding focus of the meeting between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu is going to be about the ceasefire and hostage deal.”He said Biden will focus his energy with Netanyahu to “get this deal done in the coming weeks.”) Democrats struggle to unite behind candidate as Biden vows to stay in raceThe Democratic National Committee’s rulemaking arm has held a meeting, pressing ahead with plans for a virtual roll call before August 7 to nominate the presidential pick, ahead of the party’s convention later in the month in Chicago.However, Democrats struggled to unite behind a candidate as President Joe Biden insisted he would stay in the election race against Donald Trump.It’s a pivotal few days for the President and his party. And Democrats, racing time, are considering the extraordinary possibility of Biden stepping aside for a new presidential nominee before their own convention.) Tunisia’s Saied announces reelection bid in OctoberTunisian President Kais Saied has said he will run for a second term in the October 6 presidential election.Saied, who first won in 2019, officially announced his candidacy in a televised speech published on his Facebook page.Speaking in the southern region of Tatouine, the 66-year-old said he was answering the “country’s sacred call” which left him no choice but to run for a second term.*) France bans hijab for French athletes at Paris 2024French athletes have been barred from wearing the hijab, or Muslim headscarf, at the Paris Olympic Games.France imposed the ban on its national team players as it prepares to host the Games from July 26 to August 11 and the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8.French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera initially announced the ban on September 24, 2023.
) Israelis march to Netanyahu's residence, urge him to strike deal with HamasAccording to local media, hundreds of Israelis gathered in West Jerusalem and marched towards Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence to pressure the government into finalising a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas."Netanyahu is responsible for bringing them back alive," the demonstrators chanted, referring to the Israeli captives in Gaza.Families of the hostages and the Israeli public, along with the political system, blame Netanyahu for failing to reach a deal, citing additional conditions and obstacles he has imposed.) Trump declares 'incredible victory', vows his return will restore democracyIn his first speech since being shot at by a 20-year-old man, Donald Trump predicts an "incredible victory" while accepting the Republican presidential nomination. The attack, which wounded Trump's ear and killed a bystander, has left the party euphoric over his survival and buoyed by Joe Biden's struggling reelection campaign."We will have an incredible victory, and we will begin the four greatest years in the history of our country," Trump said at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.) Protesters in Bangladesh torch headquarters of state broadcaster BTVProtesters set fire to the headquarters of Bangladesh's main state broadcaster BTV with "many people" trapped inside its offices.An official at the station says hundreds of protesters stormed the premises, setting ablaze at least 60 vehicles and an office building.This incident follows weeks-long student protests in the country, demanding reforms to civil service hiring rules.At least 32 people have been killed in the clashes between police and students this week.) Ursula von der Leyen re-elected as EU Commission head for second termMembers of the European Parliament elect Ursula von der Leyen as European Commission President for a second term after she pledges to create a continental "defence union" and continue Europe's green transition.The Parliament backed her bid with 401 votes in favour and 284 against in a secret ballot.In her address to Parliament, von der Leyen focused on prosperity and security, addressing the challenges of Russia’s war with Ukraine, global economic competition, and the climate crisis.With the opening ceremony just eight days away, Paris is transforming as it prepares to welcome nearly nine million Olympics ticketholders.Thousands of French security forces have locked down a six-kilometre stretch of central Paris ahead of the complex Olympics opening ceremony next week.The opening parade on July 26 will see athletes sail down the river Seine, leading to the closure of central water-side residential districts to most vehicles from 5:00 AM on Thursday.
) US restricts visas of Israelis accused of West Bank ‘violence’The United States has announced new visa restrictions against Israelis who have committed “violent” acts against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. It called on Israel to hold those individuals accountable.The measures bar certain Israelis and their loved ones from entering the United States.) Israeli Knesset rejects Palestinian statehood in controversial voteIn a controversial move, Israel’s Knesset has approved a resolution that overwhelmingly rejects the establishment of a Palestinian state, passing with a vote of 68-9.Even though Palestine is recognised by 147 of the 193 UN member states already, the matter was brought to the Israeli Knesset to discuss the recognition of its statehood.The resolution raised doubt on whether Tel Aviv is in a position to grant independence to occupied Palestinians.) Hezbollah warns Israel over strikes targeting civilians in LebanonHezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has warned that his group would hit new targets in Israel if more civilians were killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon.Nasrallah said “if the enemy continues to target civilians as it has done in recent days,” then this will push Hezbollah to target localities that it has not targeted until now.The Lebanese movement has exchanged almost daily fire with Israeli troops in support of Palestinian resistance group Hamas following Israel’s war on Gaza.) Biden tests positive for Covid-19, halts campaign trailUS President Joe Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 while on a campaign trip to Las Vegas and is experiencing mild symptoms, the White House said.White House said Biden would not be able to speak at scheduled events due to the diagnosis.The White House said it will provide regular updates on the president’s status as “he continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation.”*) FIFA opens probe into Argentina players’ racist chantsFIFA said it was opening an investigation into racist chants by Argentina players after they won the Copa America.The chants were heard during a live video posted on social media by Chelsea and Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from the team bus in the wake of the Copa victory over Colombia in Miami.Some players, including Fernandez, sang a chant dating back to the 2022 World Cup final in which Argentina beat France, targeting France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe and included insults.
) Israel kills 48 Palestinians in Gaza in less than an hourThe civil defence agency in Gaza said three air strikes in less than one hour — including on a school — killed at least 48 people.Israel said it carried out two of the strikes that the civil defence agency said also left dozens more wounded.According to an updated toll, 25 people were killed at the UN-run Al Razi School in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, 18 people were killed at Al Mawasi in Khan Younis and five more were killed in a strike at Beit Lahia in northern Gaza.) Türkiye’s Fidan discusses Gaza crisis, ceasefire negotiations with HaniyehTurkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan has held a telephone conversation with Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh to discuss the situation in besieged Gaza.The two sides discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which has reached catastrophic levels due to Tel Aviv’s ongoing war on the besieged enclave.They also discussed the worrying developments resulting from increasing hunger and diseases, especially in the north of Gaza.) Ukraine joining NATO would mean declaration of war: MedvedevFormer Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has said the accession of Ukraine to NATO would be a declaration of war against Moscow.He said only “prudence” on behalf of the alliance could prevent the planet from being shattered into pieces.The leaders of the NATO pledged at their summit last week to support Ukraine on an “irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership,” but left open when that membership could happen.) Harris extends debate challenge to Vance as Trump VP pickUS Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican JD Vance had their first chat since the Ohio senator became the GOP vice presidential nominee. But the two sides are still working on terms for participating in a debate, according to three people familiar with the matter.The people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal conversations about the debate, said there had been no progress at bridging the disagreements on the network partner and format.*) Deadly heatwave grips Southern Europe and BalkansRecord-breaking heat wave has swept across Europe. The Italian health ministry placed 12 cities under the most severe heat warning as a wave of hot air from Africa baked southern Europe and the Balkans and sent temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius.Municipal authorities in several southern European and Balkan cities took measures to look after elderly people in particular as civil protection crews fielded calls for water-dropping aircraft to douse wildfires.
) Gaza sees over 320 casualties in past 2 days due to Israel's use of banned weapons: OfficialsLocal authorities in Gaza report over 320 Palestinians admitted to hospitals with severe burns from internationally prohibited weapons used by the Israeli army in the past two days.Gaza's Government Media Office states that doctors believe third-degree burns on many patients, including those who died, were caused by these weapons.The arms, primarily US-made chemical or thermal weapons, "are internationally prohibited from being used against humans," according to the statement.) Clashes over government job quota injure over 100 students in BangladeshAccording to police and witnesses, more than 100 students are injured in Bangladesh, as those protesting to end a quota system for government jobs clash with ruling party supporters.These protests are the first major challenge for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since her fourth consecutive election win in January, boycotted by the main opposition.Thousands of anti-quota protesters and Awami League student wing members hurl rocks and fight with sticks and iron rods at universities nationwide, including in Dhaka.) Kenyan suspect 'confesses' to murdering 42 womenKenyan police arrest a suspected serial killer who confessed to murdering 42 women, including his wife, and dumping their dismembered bodies in a Nairobi rubbish tip.Since Friday, authorities have pulled nine mutilated bodies, trussed up in plastic bags, from a garbage site in the Mukuru slum area in southern Nairobi, a gruesome discovery that has horrified the nation.) Far-right seeks more power in EU parliament as lawmakers meetEU leaders' fate will be in lawmakers' hands starting today as the European Parliament convenes for the first time since the June elections. The bolstered far-right demands more influence in the assembly while tensions run high in Europe as the 720 lawmakers begin their five-year term. MEPs will vote on Tuesday for the parliament president based in Strasbourg, France. The current speaker, 45-year-old Maltese conservative Roberta Metsola, is expected to win another two-and-a-half-year mandate.But all eyes will be on Thursday's vote when lawmakers decide whether to give Von der Leyen another five years as commission chief.*) Türkiye’s first indigenous satellite completes third ignition into orbitTurksat 6A, Türkiye’s first homegrown communications satellite, completes the third ignition process on its journey to a stable orbit."Today, we successfully completed the 3rd ignition process, which lasted 7 minutes. TURKSAT 6A continues its historic journey and progresses towards its orbit, "Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said on X.According to the Industry and Technology Minister, the satellite will undergo its fourth ignition process on Tuesday.
NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, July, 15th. ) Gaza truce talks haven’t paused, military chief survived — Hamashttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-gaza-truce-talks-havent-paused-military-chief-survived-hamas-18183820Hamas says that Gaza ceasefire talks continue and the group’s military commander is in good health, a day after the Israeli military targeted Mohammed Deif.Hamas’ spokesperson Jihad Taha said, “There is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations” but added that “efforts and endeavours of the mediators remain ongoing.”Hamas political officials also insisted that communication channels remained functional between the leadership inside and outside Gaza after the strike in the enclave's south.) Türkiye continues to fight global injustices: Altunhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-continues-to-fight-global-injustices-altun-18183797Türkiye marks the eighth anniversary of the July 15 coup attempt, which killed 253 people and wounded over 2,700.On the eve of July 15 this year, Türkiye’s Communications Directorate arranged a concert to commemorate July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day.Türkiye’s Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, stressed Türkiye’s resilience against the efforts to undermine its sovereignty, denouncing the 2016 coup as a scheme by a terrorist group serving global exploitation interests.) World leaders react in ‘shock’ to Trump rally shootinghttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/world-leaders-react-in-shock-to-trump-rally-shooting-18183592From Asia to Europe, world leaders around the globe reacted with shock to the wounding of former US president Donald Trump in an assassination attempt at an election rally."Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell said.Regarding the attack, Turkish President Erdogan said, "I strongly condemn the assassination attempt against the 45th President of the United States and presidential candidate, Mr. Donald Trump." ) ‘Smell of blood’ fills Gaza hospital after deadly Israeli strike: UNhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/smell-of-blood-fills-gaza-hospital-after-deadly-israeli-strike-un-18183786 The UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees reported "horrific scenes" at a hospital in southern Gaza following a deadly Israeli strike on a "humanitarian zone" for displaced Palestinians.At least 90 people have been killed and nearly 300 others injured in a strike that targeted the Al Mawasi area of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.The Israeli army claimed the attack targeted Hamas’ military commander, Mohamed Deif, and his deputy, which Hamas rejected and called it a "cover-up of a horrible massacre."*) Algeria suspends art festivals in solidarity with war-torn Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/arts-and-culture/algeria-suspends-art-festivals-in-solidarity-with-war-torn-gaza-18183695 Algeria's Culture Ministry announced that it is suspending all major art festivals this summer in solidarity with Gaza, which has been under a devastating Israeli onslaught since last October.Culture Minister Soraya Mouloudji said in a statement that the ministry will instead intensify activities that express the country's solidarity with the Palestinian cause.Mouloudji said the decision comes from Algeria's supportive, fixed position toward "the Palestinian cause and its brave legitimate struggle against Zionist brutality."
) Scores killed as Israel bombs Al Mawasi 'safe zone' in southern GazaAn Israeli strike on a displacement camp in the south of Gaza has killed at least 90 people, the Health Ministry in the Palestinian territory said.More than 300 others were wounded in the strike on Al Mawasi camp, the ministry said, condemning a "brutal massacre."It came as the Israeli military pursued attacks in central Gaza with artillery fire and drone strikes, while Palestinian medics said one bombing killed a father and his three daughters.) Trump 'fine' after being rushed from rally stage as shots heardFormer US President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.A barrage of gunfire set off panic, and a bloodied Trump, who said he was shot in the ear, was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV.Trump’s campaign said he was doing “fine” after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear.At least one attendee died and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said.) Israeli protesters march to demand prisoner swap deal, early electionHundreds of Israelis have demonstrated in the city of Rehovot, near Tel Aviv, demanding a prisoner swap deal with Palestinian factions in Gaza.According to Israeli media, the demonstrators also called on the government to return authority to the people and hold early elections.Egypt, Qatar, and the US have been trying for months to secure a truce and the release of 120 remaining hostages in Gaza, but to no avail.) Death toll from Nigeria school collapse rises to 22: officialsA two-story school has collapsed in north-central Nigeria, killing 22 students and sending rescuers on a search for more than 100 people trapped in the rubble.The Saints Academy college in Plateau state collapsed shortly after students, many of whom were 15 years old or younger, arrived for classes.A total of 154 students were initially trapped in the rubble, but a police spokesperson later said 132 of them had been rescued and were being treated for injuries in various hospitals. He said 22 students died. *) US judge tosses Alec Baldwin manslaughter case over withheld evidenceAlec Baldwin's trial for involuntary manslaughter has collapsed as a judge found key evidence over the fatal shooting on set of "Rust" had been withheld from the defence.The judge said bullets potentially linked to the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins had not been shared with his lawyers by police and prosecutors.The Hollywood star immediately burst into tears, as the case —which could have seen him sentenced to 18 months in prison if found guilty — was abruptly tossed out.
) Netanyahu reportedly going solo on Gaza talks, defying Mossad Local media has revealed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is almost alone in steering negotiations on a hostage-prisoner swap deal with Palestinian resistance groups.An Israeli public broadcaster quoting unidentified sources said Netanyahu is alone in conducting the talks and has decided to harden his position related to the discussions. One of the main differences between Mossad and Netanyahu is that the security agencies do not agree on a return to fighting unless Hamas breaches any of the deal terms – contrary to Netanyahu who wants to return to fighting in any case. ) Pakistan secures $7B aid deal with IMFThe International Monetary Fund has reached a three-year $7 billion aid package deal with Pakistan. The new programme still needs to be validated by the Fund's Executive Board. But it should enable Pakistan to "cement macroeconomic stability and create conditions for stronger, more inclusive and resilient growth," according to a statement. ) Hamas proposes independent Palestinian government in post-war GazaHamas is suggesting that an independent government of non-partisan figures run post-war Gaza and the occupied West Bank, a top member of the Palestinian resistance group has said. Hossam Badran said in a statement that Hamas “proposed that a non-partisan national competency government manage Gaza and the West Bank after the war," Badran added that “the administration of Gaza after the war is a Palestinian internal matter without any external interference.” ) Trump to be anointed at Republican party convention in WisconsinDonald Trump will receive the Republicans' official blessing to run for president next week.He will become the first ever convicted felon to be a nominee for one of the two major US parties.The 78-year-old billionaire will be the show's star at the Republican National Convention, transforming the Wisconsin city into a fortress to welcome 50,000 attendees. *) X charged with deceiving users via blue checkmark, risks fine: EUElon Musk's social media company X has breached EU online content rules and its blue checkmark deceives users. This is according to EU tech regulators in a finding that could lead to a hefty fine and significant changes in how it operates The EU executive's preliminary findings or charges sent to X targeted the company's so-called dark patterns that shape user behaviour, its advertising transparency and data access for researchers.
) Palestinians risk lives for survival as hunger crisis deepens in GazaIn Gaza, Palestinians brave ongoing bombings to gather mulberry leaves for food, highlighting the severe hunger crisis.On July 9th, UN human rights experts reported that famine has spread throughout Gaza. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) noted last month that over 495,000 people face "catastrophic" levels of food insecurity.) Erdogan urges NATO to convince Netanyahu for Gaza truceTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged NATO allies to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a ceasefire and uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.At the NATO summit, Erdogan said “until comprehensive, sustainable peace is established in Palestine, attempts at cooperation with Israel within NATO will not be approved by Türkiye."Erdogan also accused Netanyahu of endangering Israelis and the region with his expansionist policies.) US announces new $225M weapons package for Ukraine, including PatriotsUS President Joe Biden has announced a new $225 million aid package for Ukraine, including a Patriot missile system.Biden made the announcement during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who also pressed for US permission to fire long-range missiles deeper inside Russia.The aid package includes Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and other munitions.) Sudan's warring parties meet in Geneva for UN-brokered ceasefire talksSudan's warring parties have arrived in Geneva for UN-brokered talks on "possible local ceasefires" to facilitate humanitarian aid.This is according to a UN spokesperson.US Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello is involved, focusing on humanitarian aid and a political solution, according to US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield.Thomas-Greenfield said the Sudanese army and RSF will negotiate via mediators in "proximity talks." *) China building more wind, solar capacity than entire world combined: reportChina is building nearly twice as much wind and solar energy capacity as the rest of the world combined, according to new research.The world's largest greenhouse gas emitter has 339 gigawatts (GW) under construction, including 159 GW of wind and 180 GW of solar.That is "nearly twice as much as the rest of the world combined", according to the new study by Global Energy Monitor.
) Israeli military orders evacuation of Gaza CityThe Israeli military has ordered all Palestinians to leave Gaza City and head south, pressing ahead with a fresh offensive across the north, south and centre of the war-stricken territory that has killed dozens of people over the past 48 hours.The stepped-up military activity came as US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators were meeting with Israeli officials in the Qatari capital, Doha, for talks trying to push through a long-elusive ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian resistance group Hamas.) Spain slams 'double standards' on Gaza during NATO summitSpanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has urged the West to reject "double standards" regarding Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza as he joined NATO leaders in supporting Ukraine."If we are telling our people that we are supporting Ukraine because we are defending the international law, this is the same as what we have to do towards Gaza," he said at NATO's 75th anniversary summit in Washington) Israel's Gaza war producing alarming carbon emissions: studyIsraeli strikes on Gaza have generated more carbon emissions in the first 120 days than the annual output of 26 countries combined, according to a new study.The study by Queen Mary University in London found that the carbon emissions resulting from Israeli attacks on Gaza have been significantly detrimental to the environment.The study underscores the critical intersection of military conflict and environmental degradation, calling for global attention to mitigate the impact of such crises on climate change.) Samsung union in South Korea declares ‘indefinite’ strikeA union representing tens of thousands of workers at Samsung Electronics in South Korea said it would extend a three-day strike indefinitely to force management to negotiate.The strike is the biggest labour action in the tech giant's history and steps up pressure on the chipmaker's management, who last week predicted a huge second-quarter operating profit increase.*) Hollywood star George Clooney urges Biden to end 2024 presidential bidUS President Joe Biden suffered a stunning blow when actor and Democratic supporter George Clooney urged him to drop his re-election bid. "I love Joe Biden," Clooney, wrote in the New York Times. "But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. It's devastating, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fundraiser was not the Joe Biden of 2010. He wasn’t even the Joe Biden of 2020.”
) At least 29 dead after Israel bombs Gaza school used as shelterAt least 29 people have been killed and dozens wounded in the fourth Israeli strike in four days on a school used to shelter displaced Palestinians.The strike hit the entrance to al-Awda school in Abasan, near the southern city of Khan Younis. Gaza media office said that the "majority" of the victims were women and children — in what it called a "terrible massacre" by Israel.) High-stakes NATO summit kicks off in US capitalNATO summit has commenced in Washington, DC, against the backdrop of ongoing wars in Ukraine and besieged Gaza, with leaders focusing on strategic responses and reinforcing alliances amidst these pressing global crises.Over the next two days, a series of high-profile events are set to unfold, including a bilateral meeting between President Joe Biden and newly elected UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.) Zelenskyy slams Modi's Russia visit, calls it 'huge disappointment'Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has slammed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia, which coincided with a reported deadly Russian strike on a children's hospital in Kiev."It is a huge disappointment and a devastating blow to peace efforts to see the leader of the world's largest democracy hug the world's most bloody criminal in Moscow on such a day," Zelenskyy wrote in a message on social media.) Türkiye says NATO members 'cannot turn a blind eye' to GazaTürkiye has urged NATO allies to take a stance against Israel's aggression against Gaza, said Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus."We, members of the world's most powerful defence organisation, cannot turn a blind eye to one of the most pressing global issues, to the immense human catastrophe unfolding in Gaza."This bloodshed and Israel's massacres must stop," Kurtulmus told a NATO parliamentary summit in the US.*) Turkish chess prodigy defeats ‘greatest player of all time’ in 41 secondsThe world's youngest chess grandmaster, 13-year-old Turkish player Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus, has achieved a stunning victory by checkmating Magnus Carlsen, the 'greatest of all time’ player.Erdogmus defeated the chess legend in an online 'blitz' tournament where each player had only one minute, with a checkmate in just 41.2 seconds.
Just bury us alive and make this end': Israeli attack sparks Gaza exodushttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/just-bury-us-alive-and-make-this-end-israeli-attack-sparks-gaza-exodus-18181574 Civilians have been forced out of the majority of Gaza's largest city, where thousands of families had sought shelter from Israeli attacks elsewhere.Backed by fighter jets and drone strikes, Israeli tanks entered the city centre on Monday.An army spokesperson warned residents of the Sabra, Rimal, Tal Al-Hawa and Al-Daraj districts to flee to so-called "humanitarian zones".) Brazil adopts free trade with Palestine in snub to occupier Israelhttps://www.trtworld.com/latin-america/brazil-adopts-free-trade-with-palestine-in-snub-to-occupier-israel-18181568 Brazil has put into effect a free trade agreement with the Palestinian Authority that has been waiting for ratification for more than a decade.Brazil's Foreign Ministry said the agreement is a concrete contribution to an economically viable Palestinian state, which can live peacefully and harmoniously with its neighbours. Palestinian ambassador in Brasilia, Ibrahim Al Zeben, called Brazil's decision "courageous, supportive and timely." ) US reveals NATO summit plans to provide Ukraine with 'bridge to membership'https://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/us-reveals-nato-summit-plans-to-provide-ukraine-with-bridge-to-membership-18181550 A senior US official has said NATO allies will announce, at the Washington DC summit, new security pledges to Ukraine.This will include a new military command in Germany to help develop Ukraine's future force before joining the alliance. Ambassador Michael Carpenter revealed that the new NATO military command will coordinate training and equipping efforts to support Ukraine's military development.The United States is hosting the 2024 NATO Summit in Washington, DC, from July 9 to 11. ) Boeing agrees to plead guilty to criminal fraud charge over 737 Max crasheshttps://www.trtworld.com/business/boeing-agrees-to-plead-guilty-to-criminal-fraud-charge-over-737-max-crashes-18181500 Boeing will plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge stemming from two crashes of 737 Max jetliners that killed 346 people, the Justice Department has said. Federal prosecutors gave Boeing the choice of pleading guilty and paying a new $243.6 million fine or facing trial for conspiracy to defraud the United States.Prosecutors accused the American aerospace giant of deceiving regulators who approved the aeroplane and pilot-training requirements for it. And finally…) SpaceX launches Türkiye's first indigenous comms satellite into orbithttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/spacex-launches-turkiyes-first-indigenous-comms-satellite-into-orbit-18181560 Turksat 6A, Türkiye's first indigenous communications satellite has been successfully launched into orbit from SpaceX's Kennedy facility in Florida.The 4.25-tonne satellite will operate at the 42 degrees East orbital position and its service life will be 15 years in orbit.It will cover Türkiye, Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia and will serve 4.5 billion people for TV, radio and emergency communications.
Leftist coalition wins most seats in France's snap election — pollstersAn alliance of French left-wing is on course to become the biggest parliamentary bloc and beat the far right, according to shocking projected results.The New Popular Front brings together socialists, greens, communists and the hard-left into one camp and was formed last month after President Emmanuel Macron called snap elections.Marine Le Pen's National Rally party led the race after the first round on June 30 but projections for round two on Sunday showed no group on course for an absolute majority.Polls show the left-wing NFP ahead of both Macron's Ensemble and Le Pen's RN.) Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital evacuated after Israeli army’s warningMedical teams in Gaza have evacuated wounded Palestinians from al Ahli Baptist Hospital after the Israeli military issued a warning to leave some neighbourhoods of Gaza City.A medical source at the hospital said the teams transferred the wounded and other patients from the hospital to medical facilities in northern Gaza.The source said Israeli quadcopter drones were heavily present around the hospital, firing at civilians and prompting the medical teams to evacuate the hospital.) Gaza war death toll could exceed 186,000: The LancetIndirect deaths from disease and lack of resources in Gaza are projected to increase the total death toll to up to 186,000, or 7.9 percent of the population.This is according to a report by the medical journal The Lancet.The destruction of infrastructure in Gaza by Israeli attacks has made data collection increasingly difficult, forcing the Palestinian Health Ministry to rely on information from media sources and first responders. ) Democrats suggest VP Harris as potential alternative to Biden against TrumpAn embattled US President Joe Biden has faced escalating pressure from fellow Democrats worried about his candidacy.Biden has faced growing calls to end his re-election campaign after a halting performance in a June debate with Republican candidate Donald Trump, which raised questions about his ability to do the job for another four years.Democrats suggest that Vice President Kamala Harris, seen as the likeliest candidate to replace Biden in the November 5 election, could perform well.And finally…) Flash floods and landslides lash Nepal, leaving thousands affectedLashing rains in Nepal, causing flash floods and landslides have killed at least 14 people across the country, according to police.Police are working with other agencies and locals to find nine missing people, according to a police spokesman.Those killed and missing are in multiple locations.
) Hamas condemns targeting of school sheltering PalestiniansThe Palestinian resistance group Hamas has condemned Israel’s targeting of a UN agency school which shelters displaced residents in central Gaza.Palestine’s Health Ministry in Gaza stated that Israeli forces committed a “massacre” at the school in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the besieged enclave, killing 16 Palestinians and injuring 50 others.Hamas demanded the international community and the UN take immediate action to stop the ongoing war crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. The attack comes as Israel’s war on the territory enters its ninth month.) Israeli delegation heads to Qatar for Gaza ceasefire talksAn Israeli negotiating team will leave on Monday for Qatar to continue talks on a hostage swap deal and ceasefire in Gaza with Palestinian factions, according to Israeli media, citing informed sources.Israeli media reported that CIA Director William Burns, Mossad Chief David Barnea, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel will participate in these discussions.) Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger sign 'confederation' treatyThe military leaders ruling Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger entered a new "confederation" as they signed a treaty during their first summit in Niamey, after having severed ties with an existing West African bloc.The heads of the three countries, who took power through coups in recent years, "decided to take a step further towards greater integration between the member states" and "adopted a treaty establishing a confederation". The "Confederation of Sahel States", which will use the acronym AES, will group some 72 million people.) Ethnic fighters advance into key north Myanmar townMyanmar ethnic minority fighters were battling their way into a town housing a regional military command.Soldiers were "surrounding" the northern Shan state town of Lashio, home to the junta's northeastern command, an official of the National Liberation Army (TNLA) said.A member of a local group of volunteers said that at least 16 civilians had been killed since fighting broke out in Lashio.*) Oscar-winning producer, Jon Landau dies at 63Jon Landau, an Oscar-winning producer who worked closely with director James Cameron on three of the biggest blockbusters of all time, “Titanic” and two “Avatar” films, has died.He was 63.Landau's partnership with Cameron led to three Oscar nominations and a best picture win for 1997's “Titanic.”
) Israeli shelling, raids leave Gaza reeling with multiple deathsSeveral Palestinians, including women, have been killed and many others wounded in a series of Israeli raids across the besieged Gaza.According to a medical source, seven bodies were brought to al-Awda Hospital in Nuseirat camp, central Gaza, following an Israeli bombing that targeted a family. Separately, the Israeli army continued shelling the Shujaiah neighbourhood in eastern Gaza City, causing extensive damage to residential areas.) Gaza ceasefire negotiations to continue next week — IsraelThe head of Israel's Mossad has returned from Doha after an initial meeting with mediators to negotiate a Gaza ceasefire and prisoner swap deal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that negotiations will resume next week but noted that gaps remain between the sides.) Masoud Pezeshkian wins Iran's presidential electionMasoud Pezeshkian has won the presidential run-off, defeating his rival Saeed Jalili, as confirmed by the Interior Ministry of Iran.Early vote counts on Saturday showed Pezeshkian securing 16.3 million votes, while Jalili received 13.5 million in Friday's election. Over 61 million Iranians were eligible to vote, including about 18 million aged 18 to 30. ) 4.5M people internally displaced in Ethiopia as of June: UN reportEthiopia is facing a severe internal displacement crisis, with an estimated 4.5 million people forced from their homes primarily due to conflict as of June, according to a UN report. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlighted that the Somali, Oromia, and Tigray regions are the most affected. Over half of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been displaced for more than a year, while 23 percent have been displaced for two to four years, and 11 percent for five years or more.*) Palestine plans to play World Cup qualifiers in occupied West BankAfter advancing further than ever in World Cup qualifying, Palestine is determined to host a game on home soil. The Palestinian Football Association has proposed playing matches in the third stage of its Asian qualification campaign in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. They have already garnered support from several opponents, starting with Jordan on September 10. The Palestinian team made history by progressing through the second round of continental qualifying in June.
) Labour tipped for historic win in UK electionhttps://trtworld.com/europe/labour-party-set-for-landslide-win-in-uk-election-exit-poll-18180306In a historic shift in the UK's political landscape, the Labour Party so far officially wins 326 seats – enough to have a majority in the UK Parliament.Vote counting is still underway after the country's general election on Thursday, which brings an end to 14 years of Conservative rule.Exit polls suggest Labour will win 410 seats in the 650-seat Parliament and party leader Keir Starmer will replace Rishi Sunak as the new prime minister.) Hamas ‘responded positively’ to Israel on Biden's peace planhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-hamas-says-responded-positively-to-israel-on-bidens-peace-plan-18180313Palestine’s Hamas has responded positively to the latest US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal, according to an official in the movement.The resistance group informed mediators that they are open to any proposal that meets the demands of the Palestinian people.Meanwhile, Israel continues its bombardment of Gaza with the Palestinian death toll surpassing 38,000, according to the Health Ministry in the besieged territory.) Leaders of Russia, China attend summit of regional security groupinghttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/gazas-population-shrinks-from-23m-to-21m-amid-palestinian-deaths-exodus-18179918Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have attended the summit of a security grouping created by Moscow and Beijing to counter Western alliances.Putin and Xi joined leaders of other countries that are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization at its annual meeting in Kazakhstan's capital of Astana.In his speech, Putin emphasised the group's focus on ensuring security of its members while Xi cautioned the leaders to "resist external interference".) More than 80 irregular asylum seekers drown off Mauritania's coasthttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/more-than-80-irregular-asylum-seekers-drown-off-mauritanias-coast-18180268More than 80 irregular asylum seekers have drowned off the southern Mauritania coast, according to local media.A boat carrying around 184 people sank and so far “87 bodies have been recovered, while 36 survivors were rescued,” the local Alakhbar news agency reported.Local authorities continue to search for several missing individuals.And finally…*) Evacuation order for thousands in US state of California as wildfire rages https://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/evacuation-order-for-thousands-in-us-state-of-california-as-wildfire-rages-18179980Thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate as a wildfire rages out of control in northern California.More than 14 square kilometres of grass and woodland have been consumed since the blaze erupted this week outside Oroville town near the state capital of Sacramento.Over 25,000 people in the area were under orders to evacuate, local NBC affiliate KCRA reported.
) Labour tipped for historic win as UK voters go to the pollsBritons are heading to the polls in a general election widely expected to return the opposition Labour party to power. The country's national ballot follows Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's surprise call to hold it six months earlier than required.A gamble – which experts say – backfired, with polls throughout the six-week campaign and for the last two years pointing to a heavy defeat for his Conservative party.) Paris rallies against French far-righthttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/weve-become-a-country-of-racists-paris-rallies-against-french-far-right-18179917Thousands have gathered in Paris to call for a vote against the far-right in the second round of France's legislative elections.Protesters cited dangers of fascism with the rise of extremist parties in the European country, warning that the anti-immigration party of Marine Le Pen was within reach of winning an absolute majority.And representatives of the Muslim community expressed concern about their freedom of worship being restricted and being treated as "second-class" citizens.) Gaza's population shrinks from 2.3M to 2.1M amid Palestinian deaths, exodushttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/gazas-population-shrinks-from-23m-to-21m-amid-palestinian-deaths-exodus-18179918The UN humanitarian community in Gaza has lowered its estimate of the population in the besieged territory from roughly 2.3 million people to about 2.1 million.Andrea De Domenico, who heads the UN humanitarian office for the occupied Palestinian territories, said the agency lowered the pre-war population estimate based on two numbers it has.He said that 110,000 people have fled Gaza and crossed into Egypt since October, according to the border authority, and close to 38,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's war.) Taliban in talks with US over Gitmo prisoner 'exchange'https://www.trtworld.com/asia/taliban-in-talks-with-us-over-gitmo-prisoner-exchange-18179820Two American prisoners have been held in custody in Afghanistan, and an "exchange" for Afghans held in Guantanamo Bay had been discussed with the United States.This is according to a Taliban government spokesman. The talks in Qatar gathered UN officials, Taliban authorities and the special envoys to Afghanistan.The prisoners were not named but an American woman is said to be among at least 18 staff of NGO International Assistance Mission detained on accusations of carrying out Christian missionary work.And lastly…*) Hurricane Beryl kills at least seven as it churns towards Jamaicahttps://www.trtworld.com/latin-america/hurricane-beryl-kills-at-least-seven-as-it-churns-towards-jamaica-18179573Hurricane Beryl has churned towards Jamaica, with forecasters warning of potentially deadly winds and storm surge.The storm killed at least seven people and caused widespread destruction across the southeastern Caribbean.The powerful hurricane, which is rare so early in the Atlantic season, weakened but was still an "extremely dangerous" Category 4 storm. It is expected to pass "near or over" Jamaica.
) Israel pounds southern Gaza as Palestinians flee on foothttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/israel-pounds-southern-gaza-as-palestinians-flee-on-foot-18179235Israeli forces have carried out deadly strikes on southern Gaza after issuing an evacuation order which a UN agency said would impact 250,000 Palestinians.Witnesses reported intense bombing and shelling around Khan Younis, southern Gaza's main city, from which Israeli troops withdrew in early April after a devastating months-long battle.A hospital source in the city said shelling killed eight people and wounded more than 30 others.) Israel's Gaza war displaced 1.9M Palestinians: UNhttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/israels-gaza-war-displaced-19m-palestinians-un-18179318The UN humanitarian coordinator for Gaza has said that 1.9 million people were now displaced in the territory.Sigrid Kaag told the UN Security Council that she was "deeply concerned" by reports of new expulsion orders for Khan Younis.The United Nations has estimated that up to 250,000 people are impacted by the Israeli military order for civilians to leave certain localities near Khan Younis.) Dozens dead after stampede at religious event in northern Indiahttps://www.trtworld.com/asia/dozens-dead-after-stampede-at-religious-event-in-northern-india-18179225At least 107 people have been crushed to death at a Hindu religious gathering in northern India, with many others injured, a senior government official says.A large crowd had gathered near the city of Hathras for a sermon by a popular preacher but a fierce dust storm sparked panic as people were leaving.Many were crushed or trampled, falling on top of each other, with some collapsing into a roadside drain in the chaos.) Philippines, China agree to de-escalate South China Sea tensionshttps://www.trtworld.com/asia/philippines-china-agree-to-de-escalate-south-china-sea-tensions-18179360The Philippines and China have agreed to "de-escalate tensions" over the South China Sea, Manila said, following a violent clash in the disputed waters.Last month, Chinese coast guard personnel wielding knives, sticks and an axe surrounded and boarded three Philippine navy boats near the shoal. A Filipino soldier lost a finger in the clash.The two sides now signed an arrangement on improving maritime communications and agreed to continue discussions between their coast guards.And finally…*) Türkiye see off Austria to reach Euro 2024 quarter-finalshttps://trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-see-off-austria-to-reach-euro-2024-quarter-finals-18179410Merih Demiral has scored twice to send Türkiye into the European Championship quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over Austria.Demiral opened the scoring after less than a minute and netted again in the second half to set up a clash against the Netherlands in Berlin.UEFA clocked the goal at 57 seconds, making it the second-fastest ever at the Euros.
Patients flee Khan Younis hospital ahead of Israeli reinvasionhttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-patients-flee-khan-younis-hospital-ahead-of-israeli-reinvasion-18179007Medical and technical teams have begun evacuating patients from Gaza's European Hospital in Khan Younis city ahead of a possible Israeli reinvasion.The hospital is located in one of the areas where residents received text ultimatums from Israel to flee again to another location.Medical sources say teams moved several patients and wounded people to Nasser Hospital in central Khan Younis.They also moved some medical devices and equipment out of fear that they would be damaged if the Israeli army raided the hospital.) Türkiye mediating Somalia-Ethiopia talks over Somaliland port deal https://trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-mediating-somalia-ethiopia-talks-over-somaliland-port-deal-18179010Türkiye has begun mediating talks between Somalia and Ethiopia over a port deal Addis Ababa signed with the breakaway region of Somaliland earlier this year.Türkiye's Foreign Ministry said that top diplomat Hakan Fidan had hosted both his Ethiopian and Somali counterparts in Ankara on Monday.The three had signed a joint statement following "candid, cordial and forward-looking" talks on their differences, according to the Ministry.) UN rights group demands immediate release of ex-Pakistani PM Imran Khanhttps://www.trtworld.com/asia/un-rights-group-demands-immediate-release-of-ex-pakistani-pm-imran-khan-18178977Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan's detention is arbitrary and in violation of international law, a UN human rights working group has said.The Geneva-based UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said that the "appropriate remedy would be to release Mr Khan immediately.” The UN working group said Khan's legal woes were part of a "much larger campaign of repression" against him and his party.) US Supreme Court rules Trump has immunity for official acts, not privatehttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/trump-has-immunity-for-official-acts-not-private-us-supreme-court-18178928The US Supreme Court for the first time has recognised that ex-presidents have immunity from prosecution for certain actions taken in office.The court threw out a judicial decision rejecting Donald Trump's bid to shield himself from criminal charges involving his efforts to undo his 2020 election loss.The court ruled 6-3 that while former presidents enjoy immunity for actions they take within their constitutional authority, they do not for actions taken in private capacity.Trump hailed it a "big win" for democracy while US President Joe Biden warned that the ruling sets a "dangerous precedent”.And finally…) Samsung union says will strike after talks breakdownA union representing tens of thousands of workers at South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics has said it will hold a three-day strike after negotiations failed.The move follows a one-day walkout in June, the first such collective action at the company, which went decades without unionisationManagement at the company, the world's biggest producer of memory chips, has been locked in negotiations with the union since January.Workers with the union previously outlined demands including improvements to annual leave and transparent performance-based bonuses.
) France's far right wins election first round: estimatesFrance's far-right has won the first round of pivotal legislative elections after the highest turnout in over four decades, estimates say.It remains unclear if the far-right National Rally party of Marine Le Pen will win an absolute majority of seats in the new National Assembly lower house.This will be determined in the second round of voting on July 7, where Le Pen could claim the post of prime minister.Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron's party came in third behind the left.) Gaza hospitals will face shutdown within 48 hours: ministryThe Gaza-based Health Ministry has cautioned that hospitals and oxygen stations across the besieged territory will cease operations within 48 hours.This is due to fuel depletion caused by the ongoing Israeli war, now in its 268th day.Israeli attacks have killed at least 37,877 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and wounded 86,969, according to the Ministry.) Oman hosts UN-sponsored prisoner swap talks between Yemen’s warring rivalsOman has hosted a new round of UN-sponsored prisoner swap negotiations between Yemen’s government and the Houthi group.A government negotiator said the “fundamental demand…is the unconditional release of all prisoners and abductees, without any discrimination.”He added that they “are hopeful of achieving positive results” during the talks.) Ghazouani secures re-election victory in Mauritanian presidential poll Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani has won the country's presidential election.Ghazouani was re-elected with over 56 percent of the vote, the results on the electoral commission website showed.That puts him well ahead of rival and human rights campaigner Biram Dah Abeid, who was predicted to win 22 percent of the vote.*) Japan introduces holographic technology in new banknotesJapan will start issuing new banknotes with the first-ever use of cutting-edge holographic technology.Holographic portraits of historical figures rotate in 3D on the bills, serving as an anti-counterfeit measure, local news reports.This is the first design change in 20 years.
) Palestinian Red Crescent exits Gaza due to heavy Israeli bombingThe Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has said it evacuated its temporary headquarters in southern Gaza because of Israeli attacks.The PRCS has said that it fully evacuated its temporary administrative headquarters in the Khan Younis area due to shrapnel falling on the building and direct shelling, which posed a danger to the staff working inside. ) Families of Israeli hostages don't want Netanyahu to sabotage swap dealThe families of Israeli hostages have urged the country's security establishment not to allow Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to sabotage the swap deal with Palestinian groups.During a press conference, the hostages' families also appealed to their country's leadership to agree to a ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of all Israeli hostages."Netanyahu's insistence on prolonging the war stands between us and our loved ones,” they emphasised.) Suicide bombings target Nigeria, killing and wounding dozens At least 18 people were killed and 30 others injured after a series of attacks by suspected female suicide bombers in Nigeria's northeastern Borno state. Authorities have said that suspected suicide bombers attacked a wedding, funeral and hospital, killing and injuring several people in the town of Gwoza.The toll included children, adults and pregnant women. ) Video shows US police shooting teenager, sparks outrage A video released late on Saturday shows an officer in upstate New York fatally shooting a 13-year-old boy who had been tackled to the ground after he ran from police and pointed a replica handgun at them.The teen was killed in Utica after officers in the city about 400 kilometres northwest of Manhattan stopped two youths a little for an unspecified “police investigation,” Utica Police Chief has said.The victim was identified as Nyah Mway, a refugee born in Myanmar and a member of the Karen ethnic minority*) Turkish scientist team starts Arctic mission to explore climate impactTürkiye's Fourth National Arctic Scientific Research Expedition has arrived in Tromso, Norway to start the expedition at 71 degrees north latitude.The team was organised under the Turkish Presidency, Ministry of Industry and Technology and with the coordination of TUBITAK MAM Polar Research Institute.Scientists will investigate the causes and effects of global climate change in areas where rapid results have been observed in the polar regions, with assessments and sampling, notably in the marine area.
UNRWA warns of critical health care shortages in Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-unrwa-warns-of-critical-health-care-shortages-in-gaza-18177343The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has issued a stark warning about the urgent need for health care in Gaza.Severe shortages of essential medicines and fuel are hampering life-saving operations in the region, it said.During its nine-month carnage in Gaza, Tel Aviv reduced most of the enclave to ruins, causing a massive shortage of basic necessities.) UN lambasts Israeli soldiers for unleashing dogs on detained Palestinianshttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1c0CLIx4yhk5PFHBHxCtFuAbJO07iQeTFYqlGH1coJLQ/edit UN High Commissioner for Human Rights spokesperson Jeremy Laurence has criticised Israeli soldiers for unleashing dogs on detained Palestinians.Laurence said the UN is “aware of reports that dogs have been released on detainees, in some cases resulting in attacks and bites.”He emphasised that such actions constitute serious violations of Israel’s obligations under occupation law and under international human rights law.) Iranians vote in snap presidential elections amid regional tensionshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/iranians-vote-in-snap-presidential-elections-amid-regional-tensions-18177722 Voting has begun in Iran to elect a new president following the death of Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19.Polls opened at 0430 GMT and are set to close at 1430 GMT on Friday.As ballots are counted manually, the final result is expected to be announced in two days.) New Delhi airport roof collapses one dead, several injuredhttps://trtworld.com/asia/new-delhi-airport-roof-collapses-one-dead-several-injured-18177729The roof of a newly refurbished terminal building at New Delhi's international airport has partially collapsed in heavy rains, killing one person and injuring eight others.Images posted online showed vehicles crushed under giant steel girders at the departure forecourt of Terminal 1.The airport was one of several projects inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March ahead of the country's general election.And finally…) Biden showcases fluctuating performance in debate with Trumphttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/biden-showcases-fluctuating-performance-in-debate-with-trump-18177708 US President Joe Biden has delivered a shaky performance during the debate, while his Republican rival Donald Trump launched a series of attacks. The two oldest presidential candidates exchanged deeply personal insults ahead of November's US election.They sparred over issues such as abortion, immigration, the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, the economy, and even their golf games.
Israel's Gallant threatens to return Lebanon to 'Stone Age'https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israels-gallant-threatens-to-return-lebanon-to-stone-age-18177343 Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant asserted during a visit to Washington that Israel's military could push Lebanon "back to the Stone Age" in a potential conflict with Hezbollah. However, he emphasised that Israel prefers a diplomatic resolution concerning the Israel-Lebanon border.Gallant also disclosed discussions with senior US officials about post-war governance in Gaza.) UN ready to deploy police force to Gaza — officialhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-un-ready-to-deploy-police-force-to-gaza-official-18177343 The United Nations is prepared to respond to any request from member states to deploy a police force to Gaza, stated Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN’s Deputy Secretary-General for Peace Operations."If we are called on by the relevant bodies to help, of course, we would do our best," Lacroix said at a press conference at UN headquarters in New York.) Coup bid in Bolivia fails as Arce mobilises people, arrests mastermindhttps://www.trtworld.com/latin-america/coup-bid-in-bolivia-fails-as-arce-mobilises-people-arrests-mastermind-18177323 Bolivian soldiers have withdrawn from positions outside government buildings, where they had gathered with tanks in what President Luis Arce described as an attempted coup.Under the command of the army chief, the troops attempted to breach the door of the presidential palace, prompting international condemnation.The soldiers retreated after several hours, as supporters of President Arce waved Bolivian flags and cheered in a central square. President Arce appointed a new army commander who ordered the troops to stand down, while the army chief was arrested and is under investigation for the coup attempt.) EU, Ukraine expected to sign security pacthttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/eu-ukraine-expected-to-sign-security-pact-18177332 The European Union is set to sign a security agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, pledging ongoing support for weapons, military training, and other aid to Kiev.Expected to be signed on Thursday, the agreement outlines the EU's commitment to nine security and defence areas, including arms deliveries, military training, defence industry cooperation, and demining.And finally…) Türkiye beat Czechia to take Crescent Stars to Euro knockout stagehttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/turkiye-beat-czech-republic-to-take-crescent-stars-to-euro-knockout-stage-18177341 Türkiye held off a spirited comeback from Czechia to secure a 2-1 victory, confirming second place in Euro 2024 Group F and advancing to the last-16 stage where they will face Austria.The Czechs faced an uphill battle after Antonin Barak's 20th-minute dismissal severely impacted their chances. Türkiye capitalised with Hakan Calhanoglu's 51st-minute goal, but Tomas Soucek's equaliser 16 minutes later kept the game tense.In a dramatic finish, Türkiye sealed the win with a stoppage-time strike from Cenk Tosun, ending the match on a high note and setting sights on further advancement in the tournament.
Half million Palestinians at 'worst hunger level' due to Israel's Gaza warhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/half-million-palestinians-at-worst-hunger-level-due-to-israels-gaza-war-18176796Almost half a million people are experiencing "catastrophic" hunger in Gaza, according to a United Nations-backed assessment. The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, or IPC, partnership said that around 495,000 people — around 22 percent of the Gaza population — are still facing "catastrophic levels of acute food insecurity". This is also known as IPC Phase 5: the worst hunger rating.) Every day, 10 Gaza children lose one or both legs due to Israel's war — UNhttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/every-day-10-gaza-children-lose-one-or-both-legs-due-to-israels-war-un-18176961Ten children per day are losing one or both of their legs in Israel's genocidal war in besieged Gaza, the head of the UN agency supporting Palestinian refugees said.UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini cited figures from the UN children's agency UNICEF and said amputations often take place in "horrible conditions", without anaesthesia.He said that figure "does not even include arms and hands,” of which there are many more cases. ) Australia awaits Assange's arrival after US guilty pleahttps://trtworld.com/australia/australia-awaits-assanges-arrival-after-us-guilty-plea-18176954WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has walked free from a court on the US Pacific island territory of Saipan in a deal that allowed him to head straight home to Australia.During the three-hour hearing, Assange pleaded guilty to one criminal count of conspiring to obtain and disclose classified national defence documents. He said he had believed the US Constitution's First Amendment, which protects free speech, shielded his activities.) ICC issues arrest warrants for Russian military chief, ex-defence ministerhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/icc-issues-arrest-warrants-for-russian-military-chief-ex-defence-minister-18176787The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for former Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu and General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov.The ICC said the decision was made after an investigation into alleged international crimes committed in Ukraine between October 2022 and March 2023.Shoygu and Gerasimov are accused of ordering attacks on civilian infrastructure, as well as committing crimes against humanity of inhumane acts.And finally…) Trump leads in voter confidence on economy, Biden preferred for democracyhttps://trtworld.com/us-and-canada/trump-leads-in-voter-confidence-on-economy-biden-preferred-for-democracy-18176973US voters see Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump as the better candidate for the economy, a new Reuters/Ipsos poll has found.The same vote on Tuesday showed that US President Joe Biden scored better with his approach on preserving democracy.The poll shows that less than five months before the November election, the electorate is divided on the candidates' approach to issues that respondents view as the country’s top problems.
Netanyahu torpedoes Biden's truce deal, vows to continue war on Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/netanyahu-torpedoes-bidens-truce-deal-vows-to-continue-war-on-gaza-18176539 The US-backed proposal to end Israel's war on Gaza is in doubt after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would only be willing to agree to a "partial" ceasefire deal that would not end the war.In an interview, Netanyahu stated he is open to a limited deal to free some of the hostages. However, he insisted the war would continue after a pause.Netanyahu's comments sharply contrast with the deal outlined by US President Joe Biden last month.) Blinken tells Israel's Gallant to ease tensions with Hezbollahhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-blinken-tells-israels-gallant-to-ease-tensions-with-hezbollah-18176540 US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to avoid escalation with Hezbollah amid Israel's ongoing war on Gaza. Blinken stressed protecting humanitarian workers in Gaza and seeking a diplomatic resolution to prevent further conflict. This comes as Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu threatened a military invasion of Lebanon.) Israel turns Greek Cypriots into its logistics base — Turkish FMhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israel-turns-greek-cypriots-into-its-logistics-base-turkish-fm-18176532 Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has raised alarms over escalating tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on threats from Greek Cypriots. Fidan warned against using southern Cyprus as a base for operations against Gaza, stating it would not benefit the Greek Cypriot administration.He urged regional actors to recognise the seriousness of the situation and to prevent further militarisation in the region.) Kenya troops leave Nairobi to start mission in gang-hit Haitihttps://www.trtworld.com/content/article/kenya-troops-leave-nairobi-to-start-mission-in-gang-hit-haiti-18176551 A Kenyan force has left Nairobi to lead a multinational mission addressing gang violence in Haiti, according to Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki. About 400 police officers departed Nairobi on Monday night aboard Kenya Airways.The group comprises elite officers from the Rapid Deployment Unit, General Service Unit, Administration Police, and Kenya Police.And finally…) NASA scraps planned spacewalk after astronaut suit malfunctionA NASA spacewalk at the International Space Station (ISS) was abruptly ended when water began leaking from one of the astronauts' spacesuits inside the airlock.NASA called off the spacewalk on Monday after astronaut Tracy Dyson reported water squirting from her spacesuit's cooling system. The leak occurred as Dyson switched her suit to battery power before floating outside the station.Despite the incident, astronauts Mike Barratt and Tracy Dyson were reported safe and not in immediate danger, according to NASA.https://www.trtworld.com/science-and-tech/nasa-scraps-planned-spacewalk-after-astronaut-suit-malfunction-18176553
) Israel preparing for multi-front war — Netanyahuhttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-prepared-for-multi-front-war-netanyahu-18176229Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel is preparing to change the situation on its border with Lebanon.Speaking to Israel’s Channel 14 about the possibility of a full-scale war with the Lebanese Hezbollah group, Netanyahu said if necessary, Israeli forces “can fight on several fronts.”Regarding Israel’s war in Gaza, he said the phase of intense fighting is nearing an end, but that the war will not end until Hamas no longer controls the enclave.) Death toll rises in Russia's Dagestan region after militant attackhttps://trtworld.com/europe/death-toll-rises-in-russias-dagestan-region-after-militant-attack-18176196More than 15 policemen and several civilians, including an Orthodox priest, have been killed by armed militants in Russia’s southern republic of Dagestan.The gunmen opened fire on two Orthodox churches, a synagogue and a police post in two cities, according to the authorities.Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were declared days of mourning in the region.) Over 1,300 die in hottest Hajj, mostly unlisted pilgrims — Saudi Arabiahttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/over-1300-die-in-hottest-hajj-mostly-unlisted-pilgrims-saudi-arabia-18176218Saudi Arabia has said that more than 1,300 faithful died during the Hajj pilgrimage during intense heat, and most of the deceased did not have official permits.The dead came from more than 10 countries stretching from the United States to Indonesia, and some governments are continuing to update their totals.Diplomats say the cause of death in most cases was heat-related.Temperatures in Mecca this year climbed as high as 51.8 degrees Celsius, according to Saudi Arabia's national meteorological centre.) Iran, Bahrain signal thaw in relations after years of strainhttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/iran-bahrain-signal-thaw-in-relations-after-years-of-strain-18176228Bahrain and Iran have agreed to start talks aimed at resuming diplomatic relations between the two countries.This is according to Bahrain's state news agency.During a meeting in Tehran, the foreign ministers reportedly agreed to establish mechanisms to mend ties after eight years of regional hiatus.And finally…*) UAE to partner with UN to aid Sudan, South Sudanhttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/uae-to-partner-with-un-to-aid-sudan-south-sudan-18176226The United Arab Emirates has signed an agreement with the UN World Food Programme to contribute $25 million in emergency food assistance.The assistance will be provided to those directly affected by the crises in Sudan and South Sudan, including refugees and displaced people by the war.Since mid-April 2023, the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces have been engaged in a war that has killed nearly 15,000 people and displaced around 8.5 million, according to the UN.
) Israel kills 21 Palestinians in Gaza on 3rd day of Eid al Adhahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-kills-21-palestinians-in-gaza-on-3rd-day-of-eid-al-adha-18174695 As Muslims around the world mark the final day of Eid al Adha, Israeli air strikes on Gaza killed at least 21 Palestinians the day before.According to medical sources, Israeli warplanes struck three homes in the central city of Deir al Balah, killing 13 people and injuring several others.Meanwhile in central Gaza, an Israeli drone strike killed two civilians.And several others were reported killed and wounded in an air strike on a house in the Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood of Gaza City.) Over 3,500 children face hunger due to Israeli siege — Gaza officialshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/over-3500-children-face-hunger-due-to-israeli-siege-gaza-officials-18174549 Local authorities in Gaza have raised the alarm about over 3,500 children at risk of hunger due to Israel's tightened siege and the closure of aid crossings.The Gaza Government Media Office warned that the enclave is "rapidly" heading towards famine, accusing Israel and the US of conspiring to block humanitarian aid.The statement emphasised that 3,500 children face death from malnutrition due to the critical lack of nutritional supplements and vaccines now prohibited by Israel.) Pyongyang decked up as Putin makes first visit to North Korea in 24 yearshttps://www.trtworld.com/content/article/pyongyang-decked-up-as-putin-makes-first-visit-to-north-korea-in-24-years-18174689 Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in North Korea, Russian news agencies reported. This visit is Putin's first to the country in 24 years and aims to bolster cooperation amid US-led sanctions and escalating tensions with Washington. Earlier on Wednesday, Putin was welcomed at Pyongyang's airport by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, highlighting the importance of their diplomatic engagement.) 'Nowhere to flee' for Rohingya in western Myanmar conflict — UNhttps://www.trtworld.com/asia/nowhere-to-flee-for-rohingya-in-western-myanmar-conflict-un-18174529 Tens of thousands of Rohingya in Myanmar's Rakhine region are facing a dire situation, the UN human rights chief has reported. The Arakan Army issued a warning to evacuate the town of Maungdaw, primarily inhabited by Rohingya, ahead of an impending offensive. Speaking at the UN Human Rights Council, Volker Turk expressed deep concern over the plight of the Rohingya.He emphasised that they have nowhere to flee amidst the intensifying conflict in western Myanmar.And finally…*) Türkiye open Euro 2024 with 3-1 victory over Georgiahttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-open-euro-2024-campaign-with-3-1-victory-over-georgia-18174621 In their Euro 2024 debut, Türkiye secured a 3-1 victory over Georgia in a closely contested match highlighted by two spectacular Turkish goals. Mert Muldur gave Türkiye a first-half lead with a thunderous volley from the edge of the box before Georgia equalised in the 32nd minute.But then, 19-year-old Arda Guler, coming into the tournament fresh from a run of goals for Real Madrid, scored after 65 minutes – an unstoppable shot into the top corner.And Kerem Akturkoglu sealed the deal, passing into an empty net in added time to end the game at 3-1.
) Israeli strike kills several Palestinians in Gaza's Nuseirathttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israeli-strike-kills-several-palestinians-in-gazas-nuseirat-18174272 An Israeli air strike on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza has killed several Palestinians, according to Palestinian news agency WAFA.Both local media sources and witnesses say the Israeli military carried out a series of air strikes on various parts of Gaza during the Muslim festival Eid al Adha.Israel's war on Gaza, now in its 256th day, has killed at least 37,347 Palestinians and wounded 85,372.) Israelis flood streets in rally, calling change of Netanyahu administrationhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israelis-flood-streets-in-rally-calling-change-of-netanyahu-regime-18174261 Protesters in Israel have converged in occupied West Jerusalem, calling for new elections in an effort to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.Following the departures of former members of Netanyahu’s war cabinet, opposition groups declared a week of street protests that included blocking highways and mass demonstrations.On Monday, thousands of Israelis gathered outside the Israeli parliament and planned to march to Netanyahu's private home in the city.) Record number of NATO nations meet defence spending target — Stoltenberghttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/record-number-of-nato-nations-meet-defence-spending-target-stoltenberg-18174271 NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that a record 23 of NATO's 32 member nations are hitting defence spending targets this year.Stoltenberg said “Europeans are doing more for their collective security than just a few years ago" in a speech at the Wilson Center research group.The estimated figure is a nearly fourfold increase from 2021, when only six nations were meeting the goal.) US braces for massive heatwave, over 75 million remain under alerthttps://www.trtworld.com/climate/us-braces-for-massive-heat-wave-over-75-million-remain-under-alert-18174277 Weather experts have warned the US is bracing for a massive week-long heat wave.The Northeast and Midwest are preparing for sweltering temperatures as a "heat dome" settles over a large part of the country.The National Weather Service said that over 75 million people were under some level of heat alert as of Monday morning. And finally…*) Pilgrims triumph over heat as Hajj 2024 nears conclusionhttps://trtworld.com/middle-east/pilgrims-triumph-over-heat-as-hajj-2024-nears-conclusion-18174280 Muslim pilgrims will perform the third day of the symbolic stoning of the devil before the Farewell Tawaf, which means circling the Holy Kaaba in Mecca.The stoning of the pillars represents the devil and takes place in Mina, just outside the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.The final days of the Hajj coincide with faithful around the world celebrating the Eid al Adha holiday.
) China’s relationship with Australia ‘on right track’China's relationship with Australia is "on the right track", Premier Li Qiang has said in Canberra as the two trading partners moved on from a bitter economic dispute. The highest-ranking Chinese official to visit Australia since 2017, Li held high-level talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following a welcome ceremony at Parliament House.Starting in 2020, a slew of Australia's most lucrative export commodities were effectively banned from China.But as ties have gradually improved under a new government in Canberra, Beijing has wound back most of these costly trade barriers.) Russia to hold trial of US reporter Gershkovich behind closed doors, TASS reportsThe Russian trial of detained US reporter Evan Gershkovich will start on June 26 and will be held behind closed doors, Russian state-run news agencies TASS and RIA reported, citing a Russian court.Last week, prosecutors said the Gershkovich case would be heard by a court in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, where the reporter was arrested in March 2023 on suspicion of espionage.He denies the charges.) Indian passenger and goods trains collide in West BengalAn express passenger train and a goods train have collided in India's West Bengal killing at least five people, officials said."Doctors, ambulances and disaster teams have been rushed to the site for rescue, recovery, medical assistance," Mamata Banerjee said on social media. "Action on war-footing initiated."Banerjee said the crash took place in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district, when the Kanchenjunga Express train was hit by a goods train.Images on Indian broadcasters showed tangled wreckage of carriages flipped on their side, and one thrust high into the air precariously balanced on another.) Hezbollah 'escalating' its attacks against Israel — Israeli armyThe Lebanese Hezbollah group has been "escalating" its attacks against Israel’s northern front, "jeopardising the future of Lebanon", the Israeli army said. “Hezbollah has launched more than 5,000 rockets, anti-tank missiles and explosive UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) since the events of October 7,” army spokesperson Daniel Hagari said at a press conference broadcast by Israel’s Channel 12.Hezbollah has not issued a comment on the Israeli army spokesperson's remarks.And finally…*) ‘Inside Out 2’ scores massive $155 million openingHollywood’s summer movie anxieties gave way to joy this weekend with the massive debut of Disney and Pixar’s “ Inside Out 2.” The animated sequel earned $155 million in ticket sales from 4,440 theaters in the US and Canada, according to studio estimates.Not only is it the second-highest opening weekend in Pixar’s 29 years of making films and the second-biggest animated opening ever; It’s also the biggest of 2024, and since “Barbie.” With an estimated $140 million from international showings, “Inside Out 2” had a staggering, and record-breaking, $295 million global start.
Yemen’s Houthis attack more ships in solidarity with Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-yemens-houthis-attack-more-ships-in-solidarity-with-gaza-18173076Yemen’s Houthis said they carried out attacks on three ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden over the past 24 hours.The UK’s Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) office confirmed receiving reports of attacks on two of the ships mentioned by the Houthis.Yahya Saree, the Houthis’ military spokesperson, said in a televised briefing that the group’s naval and missile forces and the air force carried out the three military operationsNo information on the owners or operators of the ships was provided.) Poll shows surge in Palestinian backing for armed resistance against Israelhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/poll-shows-surge-in-palestinian-backing-for-armed-resistance-against-israel-18173078According to an opinion poll, support for armed resistance as the best means to end Israeli occupation and achieve independence has surged among Palestinians in the last three months.The poll by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research (PSR) showed that support for armed struggle in the occupied West Bank and besieged Gaza climbed by 8 percentage points to 54 percent.Support for Hamas rose by 6 percentage points to 40 percent. Fatah, led by President Mahmoud Abbas, had 20 percent backing.) Biden, Zelenskyy ink 10-year ‘historic’ US-Ukraine security dealhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/biden-zelenskyy-ink-10-year-historic-us-ukraine-security-deal-18173095US President Joe Biden and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy have signed a landmark 10-year security deal between Washington and Kiev. The Ukrainian leader called it a “historic day” in the fight against Russia.The deal will see the United States provide Ukraine with a range of military aid and training over the next decade, while Zelenskyy said it would act as a bridge to his country finally winning membership of the NATO alliance.) Trudeau ally accuses unnamed lawmakers of being ‘traitors’ to Canadahttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/trudeau-ally-accuses-unnamed-lawmakers-of-being-traitors-to-canada-18173102The head of a Canadian political party has said that an intelligence report about some members of parliament acting as agents for other nations was concerning and that offending lawmakers must be removed.Jagmeet Singh of the opposition left-leaning New Democrats said he was alarmed after reading an unredacted version of the report.Singh, who as the leader of a major party exercised his right to request increased security clearance to read the documents, said the report showed that Canada is vulnerable to foreign interference, which could weaken the confidence of its citizens.And finally…) Israeli seizure of Rafah crossing prevents 2,500 Palestinians from Hajjhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israeli-seizure-of-rafah-crossing-prevents-2500-palestinians-from-hajj-18173117 Israel’s seizure of the Rafah crossing, which connects Gaza to Egypt, has prevented 2,500 Palestinians from performing the Muslim Hajj pilgrimage this year, according to the Ministry of Endowments in the blockaded enclave.This is a “clear violation of religious freedom,” ministry spokesperson Ikrami Al-Mudallal, told Anadolu news agency.The war has prevented the ministry from completing the usual Hajj preparations, including signing transportation contracts within Egypt and Saudi Arabia and booking accommodations in Mecca and Medina, he added.
Hamas sees no sign of Israel agreeing to Biden’s truce planhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-hamas-sees-no-sign-of-israel-agreeing-to-bidens-truce-plan-18172710Hamas said it has shown “full positivity” in efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement with Israel in Gaza.In a statement, the Palestinian resistance group said it urged the US to pressure Israel to accept a deal leading to a permanent ceasefire in the blockaded enclave.Hamas said that while US officials have said Israel has accepted a ceasefire proposal outlined by President Joe Biden on May 31 and later backed by the US, the group has not not heard any Israeli official confirm the development.) Israel keeps 9,170 Palestinians captive against 116 Israelis Hamas holdshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israel-keeps-9170-palestinians-captive-against-116-israelis-hamas-holds-18172722The detention disparity is clear.Even as the global powers are pressing Hamas to release 116 Israeli hostages, there’s minimal demand for Israel from the same powers to free more than 9,170 Palestinians it has abducted since October last year.According to the Palestinian Prisoners’ Club, Israeli authorities have committed “horrific crimes” against prisoners, leading to at least 18 deaths since Israel’s brutal war began, while it is estimated that dozens of detainees from Gaza have been killed.) Russian nuclear-powered submarine, other naval vessels dock in Cubahttps://www.trtworld.com/latin-america/russian-nuclear-powered-submarine-other-naval-vessels-dock-in-cuba-18172706A Russian nuclear-powered submarine and other naval vessels have arrived in Cuba for a five-day visit in a show of force amid spiralling US-Russian tensions.The submarine Kazan, which Cuba says is not carrying nuclear weapons, was accompanied by the frigate Admiral Gorshkov, as well as an oil tanker and a salvage tug.Russia’s Defence Ministry said in a statement that prior to entering the Havana port, the fleet “completed an exercise on the use of high-precision missile weapons.”) Amid far-right surge, Ramelow warns of division between east, west Germanshttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/amid-far-right-surge-ramelow-warns-of-division-between-east-west-germans-18172546The electoral show by the far-right AfD party in the just-concluded European elections could drive a wedge between East and West Germany, the top elected official of the country’s Thuringia province has said.Minister-President Bodo Ramelow of the German free state of Thuringia warned that “emotional unity is breaking down.”Ramelow told a local newspaper that in social networks after the European elections, many users were questioning “where is the gratitude of East Germans,” adding that such comments weren’t needed right now.And finally…) More than 1.5M Muslims arrive in Mecca for annual Hajj pilgrimagehttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/more-than-15m-muslims-arrive-in-mecca-for-annual-hajj-pilgrimage-18172453Muslim pilgrims have been streaming into Islam’s holiest city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia ahead of the start of Hajj later this weekSaudi officials say more than 1.5 million foreign pilgrims have arrived in the country, the vast majority by air, from across the world. More are expected, and hundreds of thousands of Saudis and others living in Saudi Arabia will also join them when the pilgrimage officially begins on Friday.
US circulates revised Gaza truce draft at UN but Israel objectshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-us-circulates-revised-gaza-truce-draft-at-un-but-israel-objects-18170639The United States has circulated the revised draft of a UN Security Council resolution aimed at bringing about a ceasefire in Gaza, but Israel privately objected to its close ally’s latest attempt to stop the genocidal war.The draft says the Security Council “welcomes the new ceasefire proposal announced on May 31, which is acceptable to Israel ... (and) calls upon Hamas to also accept it.”But an Israeli official said that the language overlooks Israel’s stated aim of destroying Hamas.) Sodomised to death: Stories of torture at Israel’s Sde Teiman base emergehttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/sodomised-to-death-stories-of-torture-at-israels-sde-teiman-base-emerge-18170660A three-month investigation by The New York Times has unearthed severe torture and egregious human rights violations at an Israeli military base in Sde Teiman, southern Israel.Since the onset of Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza, a chilling pattern of grotesque abuse has emerged within Sde Teiman’s walls.Detainees, shackled by horror, have borne witness to unspeakable acts: sodomised with metal rods, jolted with electricity, and subjected to merciless beatings with batons, rifle butts, and handheld metal detectors.) Outrage grows as RSF is blamed for killing 100+ in Sudan’s Gezirahttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/outrage-grows-as-rsf-is-blamed-for-killing-100-in-sudans-gezira-18170661Sudanese and international organisations and institutions have condemned the killing of over 100 civilians in the village of Wad al Noora in Sudan’s Gezira state allegedly by paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. They are calling for an immediate investigation and accountability for those responsible.The Madani Resistance Committee, a local pro-democracy activists group, put the toll at “more than 104.”) Ukraine to get $225M worth US weapons that Kiev can use inside Russiahttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/ukraine-to-get-dollar225m-worth-us-weapons-that-kiev-can-use-inside-russia-18170649US officials said Washington will send about $225 million in military package to Ukraine.The officials said the aid includes munitions for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, as well as mortar systems and an array of artillery rounds.Under a new US directive, Ukraine can use such weapons to strike across the border into Russia if Russian forces there are attacking or preparing to attack.And finally…) Survey: 21% Germans prefer ‘more players with white skin’ in national teamhttps://www.trtworld.com/discrimination/survey-21-germans-prefer-more-players-with-white-skin-in-national-team-18170245A new survey on German football and racism has sparked an intense debate in the country ahead of the Euro 2024 Championship.In a representative poll by public broadcaster ARD, 21% of Germans said they prefer to see more players with white skin in the national football team. Nearly 17% said they regret that the national team’s current captain is a player with Turkish roots.Ronny Blaschke, a renowned expert on German football, said the outcome of the survey was not surprising, as racism in football has long been a serious problem, and was further exacerbated by the rise of the anti-immigrant far-right AfD party.
US says response from Hamas on truce deal still awaitedhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-us-says-response-from-hamas-on-truce-deal-still-awaited-18169816A response from Palestinian resistance group Hamas on US President Joe Biden’s ceasefire proposal is still being awaited, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has told reporters.CIA Director Bill Burns will be in Doha to consult with Qatari mediators on the Gaza ceasefire proposal, Sullivan said. Qatar has been mediating on Gaza between Israel and Hamas.) Urgent call in Morocco to bar suspected ship with Indian weapons for Israelhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/urgent-call-in-morocco-to-bar-suspected-ship-with-indian-weapons-for-israel-18169838An activist group in Morocco has urged the government to block a cargo ship suspected of transporting Indian weapons to Israel from passing through its territorial waters.Sailing under the flag of Luxembourg, the commercial ship departed from India on April 18 and is set to arrive at the Spanish port of Cartagena on Wednesday, the National News reported.To enter the Mediterranean, ships travelling east from the Atlantic must pass through the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates Spain and Morocco.) Prosecutors paint Hunter Biden as driven by addiction in gun trialhttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/prosecutors-paint-hunter-biden-as-driven-by-addiction-in-gun-trial-18169825Jurors have heard unsparing accounts of Hunter Biden’s drug use in his own words as his trial on gun charges, the first-ever prosecution of a child of a sitting US president, has gotten under way.Hunter Biden, 54, the only surviving son of President Joe Biden, is charged with lying about his illegal drug use when buying a handgun in 2018, a felony.He is also charged with illegal possession of the firearm.) Two pilots killed as training aircraft crashes in central Türkiyehttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/two-pilots-killed-as-training-aircraft-crashes-in-central-turkiye-18169536Two pilots were killed after a training aircraft crashed in central Türkiye, the country’s National Defence Ministry has said.The SF-260D type aircraft belonging to the Air Forces Command, which took off from the 12th Air Transport Main Base Command in Kayseri for training, crashed for an unknown reason, the ministry said on social media platform X.Search and rescue efforts have begun.And finally…) India’s Modi declares historic victory, but fails to win ‘big majority’https://www.trtworld.com/asia/indias-modi-declares-historic-victory-but-fails-to-win-big-majority-18169400Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has claimed victory for the ruling National Democratic Alliance, terming it a “historical feat” in the history of the South Asian country.As per the final tally, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies won 295 seats, while the opposition Indian National Congress and its allies were trailing with 231 seats.17 seats were won by other candidates in the 543-member lower house of India’s parliament.
) Blinken calls Israeli officials to discuss Gaza ceasefire dealhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-blinken-calls-israeli-officials-to-discuss-gaza-ceasefire-deal-18169087 The US State Department said the Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called top Israeli officials to discuss a proposed deal for a truce in Gaza.According to statements, Blinken spoke with the Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and the Israeli defence minister Yoav Gallant.In both calls, he "commended" Israel for the proposal and said the onus was on Hamas to agree.) Exit polls indicate Sheinbaum wins historic Mexican presidential racehttps://www.trtworld.com/latin-america/exit-polls-indicate-sheinbaum-wins-historic-mexican-presidential-race-18169100 According to exit polls in Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum is set to be elected the country’s first woman president.A polling firm said the ruling party candidate won around 58 percent of the votes, against 29 percent for her main opposition rival.Sheinbaum’s win is seen as a milestone in Mexico after a history of gender-based violence.) South Africa's Ramaphosa urges parties to unite after ANC loses majorityhttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/south-africas-ramaphosa-urges-parties-to-unite-after-anc-loses-majority-18169070South Africans voted for national and provincial lawmakers in an election in which the governing party fell short of a majority for the first time.South Africa’s president urged political parties to find common ground, overcome their differences, and work together for the country's good.President Cyril Ramaphosa said: "Our people expect all parties to work together within the framework of our Constitution and address whatever challenges we encounter peacefully.") Clashes renew between Sudan's army and RSF paramilitarieshttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/clashes-renew-between-sudans-army-and-rsf-paramilitaries-18169090Violent clashes broke out between the Sudanese army and members of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Khartoum, Al Jazirah and White Nile states and in the city of El Fasher.Eyewitnesses said the army conducted air strikes on RSF gathering centres near a petroleum refinery north of Khartoum, resulting in thick columns of smoke rising.And finally…*) Turkish amputee team protest Gaza massacres after 6-0 win over Israelhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkish-amputee-team-protest-gaza-massacres-after-6-0-win-over-israel-18169067The Turkish National Amputee Football Team defeated the Israeli team 6-0 in the 2024 European championship match in France.The Turkish team who refused to shake hands with their Israeli opponents, protested Israel’s brutal war on Gaza and dedicated the win to the Palestinian people.
Jury convicts Donald Trump on all 34 charges in hush money trialhttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/jury-convicts-donald-trump-on-all-34-charges-in-hush-money-trial-18168112Donald Trump has become the first former president to be convicted of felony crimes. A New York jury found Trump guilty of falsifying business records in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through hush money payments to an adult movie actress.The verdict from the 12-person jury convicted Trump on all 34 counts after deliberating for 9.5 hours.) Recognising Palestine generates positive momentum — Norway’s ambassadorhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/recognising-palestine-generates-positive-momentum-norways-ambassador-18167646The recognition of an independent Palestinian state strengthens the idea of the two-state solution to the longstanding issue of Israeli occupation of Palestinian land, Norway’s ambassador to Türkiye told TRT World.Andreas Gaarder said “the intention is to contribute to creating a momentum and also to signal to the world community that this is an important issue that needs to be solved and it needs to be solved now.”Gaarder said Oslo has been involved in “hectic diplomatic activity” in Brussels in the past few days, while strongly advocating for the end of Israel’s brutal war on Gaza and for long-lasting peace in the region.) NY hospital fires nurse for Gaza ‘genocide’ reference during award speechhttps://www.trtworld.com/discrimination/ny-hospital-fires-nurse-for-gaza-genocide-reference-during-award-speech-18167836A nurse at New York University Langone Medical Center has been fired for referring to the “genocide” in Gaza during a speech accepting an award earlier this month.Hesen Jabr, a Palestinian American labour and delivery nurse, drew a link between her work and the suffering of mothers in Gaza.Jabr said after the speech, she was “dragged” to an office and was handed her termination letter for putting “others at risk” and “offending people.”) NATO discusses allowing Ukraine to use Western arms to strike inside Russiahttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/nato-discusses-allowing-ukraine-to-use-western-arms-to-strike-inside-russia-18168072NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg pushed at the start of a meeting of the alliance’s foreign ministers to let Ukraine use Western weapons to strike inside Russia.Ukraine has been pressing its supporters, led by the United States, to allow it to use the longer-range weaponry it supplies to hit targets on Russian soil.Some countries including Britain and the Netherlands say Kiev has the right to use their weapons to strike military targets in Russia.And finally…) Efes-2024 exercise based on peacekeeping, no country targeted: Erdoganhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/efes-2024-exercise-based-on-peacekeeping-no-country-targeted-erdogan-18167900Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that the Turkish military’s ongoing Efes-2024 drill is based on peacekeeping.In an address to the military during the exercise in Izmir province, the Turkish president said that “no country is targeted within the scope of the Efes-2024 drill.”Erdogan said Türkiye has the opportunity to use the new domestic systems that have entered the inventory during the ongoing drill.
) China’s Xi Jinping calls for Israel-Palestine peace summithttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-chinas-xi-jinping-calls-for-israel-palestine-peace-summit-18167728The Chinese president has called for a peace conference on Israel’s war on besieged Gaza as he addressed Arab leaders and diplomats at a forum in Beijing.This week, China is hosting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi and several other Arab leaders for a forum at which discussions on the war in Gaza are expected.Addressing the delegations, the president said China supported a “broad-based” peace conference to resolve the conflict.) No country is safe unless Israel is made to abide by int’l law: Erdoganhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/no-country-is-safe-unless-israel-is-made-to-abide-by-intl-law-erdogan-18167436No country is safe unless Israel abides by international law, according to the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.The Turkish president was referring to Israel’s actions in Palestine’s Gaza which have been ongoing for more than seven months despite rulings and resolutions against it.Erdogan said: “A bare-knuckled Israel is a threat not only to Palestine or Gaza but also to global peace and humanity as a whole.”) ‘Finish Them!’: Haley inscribes genocidal message on Biden’s bomb to Israelhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/finish-them-haley-inscribes-genocidal-message-on-bidens-bomb-to-israel-18167719Nikki Haley, the former Republican presidential contender, has sparked global outrage after writing “Finish Them!” for the Palestinians of Gaza on an Israeli artillery shell during a visit to Israel.An image of Haley crouched in front of pallets of America-supplied shells, writing with a marker on one, was shared on social media by an Israeli politician and former ambassador to the United Nations.Haley finished her inscription with a note that “America loves Israel always” with a heart emoji, and was quickly slammed for the message.) Women lead Mexico’s presidential race to historic finalhttps://www.trtworld.com/americas/women-lead-mexicos-presidential-race-to-historic-final-18167740Campaigning to be Mexico’s next president has reached a climax with two women leading the race for the first time in the Latin American nation.A woman appears almost certain to be elected leader of the world’s most populous Spanish-speaking country when millions of Mexicans vote on Sunday.Both the women have dominated the presidential race, in a dramatic change for a country with long-standing gender inequality.*) India’s New Delhi records highest-ever temperature of 49.9°Chttps://www.trtworld.com/climate/indias-new-delhi-records-highest-ever-temperature-of-499degreec-18167344Temperatures in India’s capital have soared to a record-high 49.9 degrees Celsius as authorities warn of water shortages in the sprawling mega-city.The India Meteorological Department (IMD), which reported “severe heat-wave conditions,” recorded the temperatures on Tuesday at two New Delhi suburbs stations, Narela and Mungeshpur.The weather bureau said the temperatures were nine degrees higher than expected.
Algeria proposes UNSC resolution calling for truce in Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-algeria-proposes-unsc-resolution-calling-for-truce-in-gaza-18167320 Algeria has circulated a proposed UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and ordering Israel to halt its military invasion in the southern city of Rafah immediately.The draft resolution also demands that the ceasefire be respected by all parties and calls for the immediate release of all hostages.Additionally, the draft demands compliance with previous council resolutions that call for the opening of all border crossings and humanitarian access to Gaza's 2.4 million people who desperately need food and other aid.) Prosecutor seeks guilty verdict in Trump trial, citing powerful evidencehttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/prosecutor-seeks-guilty-verdict-in-trump-trial-citing-powerful-evidence-18167314 In the closing arguments at the first-ever criminal trial of a former US president, prosecutors stated that Donald Trump engaged in a "conspiracy and a cover-up" to conceal hush money payments to an adult movie star.Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass delivered the prosecution's summation, urging the jury to disregard distractions and focus on the evidence. Steinglass argued that the prosecution had presented compelling evidence of Trump's guilt.) Turkish universities to welcome academics from West who oppose Israel’s warhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkish-universities-to-welcome-academics-from-west-who-oppose-israels-war-18167339 The president of Türkiye’s Council of Higher Education has announced that the doors of Turkish universities are open to academics and students from Western educational institutions who lost their jobs for opposing Israel’s massacres in Gaza.The announcement was made at the opening of a conference titled “Gaza Genocide Attempt: Tellings of an Eyewitness” at the Social Sciences University of Ankara.The conference was presented by Ghassan Abu Sitta, the Palestinian rector of Glasgow University, who volunteered as a doctor during Israel's siege of Gaza and was prevented from talking about his experiences in some European countries.) Kenya begins holding public hearings into alleged abuses by UK troopshttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/gunmen-kill-multiple-civilians-abduct-dozens-in-central-nigeria-official-18166913 Kenya has launched public hearings to investigate allegations of human rights violations and abuses of power by British troops stationed in the former colony.The sessions will examine accusations of mistreatment, torture, unlawful detention, and killings, according to a circular issued by the lower house of parliament. British soldiers stationed in the country have faced accusations of serious offences, including murder.And finally…) Colombia moves to become latest South American country to ban bullfightinghttps://www.trtworld.com/latin-america/colombia-moves-to-become-latest-south-american-country-to-ban-bullfighting-18167325 Colombia's congress has passed a bill banning bullfighting, a popular yet controversial pastime in the South American country with hundreds of events drawing thousands of spectators every year.If approved by President Gustavo Petro, who has in the past supported restrictions on bullfighting, the ban will come into effect in 2027.The lower house gave the bill the green light with a 93 to 2 vote.
) Israel bombs Palestinian shelters in Rafah, leaving dozens deadIsraeli forces have targeted tents of displaced Palestinians near the UNRWA headquarters in northwestern Rafah, resulting in numerous casualties, according to the Palestine Red Crescent.The attacks have claimed the lives of at least 30 people and left dozens more injured.Gaza's civil defence agency corroborated these reports, highlighting the severe impact on an area sheltering approximately 100,000 displaced Palestinians.) Israel's actions in Gaza are collective punishment: ICC chief prosecutorInternational Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor, Karim Khan said that Israel is imposing collective punishment on Gaza, emphasising that no one has immunity to commit war crimes or crimes against humanity.In an interview with the British newspaper The Sunday Times, Khan discussed the reactions following his move to seek arrest warrants for members of the Palestinian group Hamas and senior Israeli officials.) Death toll from Russian strike on hypermarket in Ukraine's Kharkiv risesThe death toll from a Russian air strike on a hypermarket in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv rose to 16, local authorities have said.Earlier in the day, the authorities said 12 people were killed in the attack, which targeted a local hypermarket and damaged a furniture store and a shopping centre.They claimed that the strike was carried out using two guided bombs. ) France ends New Caledonia state of emergency, more forces arriveSeven more mobile force units will soon arrive as reinforcements in New Caledonia, the Elysee said in a statement, also indicating a state of emergency would end as planned, in the French Pacific territory on Tuesday morning.Seven people have been killed, hundreds arrested and large numbers of buildings and cars destroyed in a fortnight of upheaval, triggered by a contested electoral reform and fueled by sharp economic disparities between the indigenous Kanak population and people of European background.*) Seven young elephants drown in Sri LankaWildlife authorities in Sri Lanka found seven carcasses of young elephants believed to have drowned in the biggest single loss of the animals in five years.Sri Lanka's wild elephant population has dwindled to just over 7,000 down from an estimated 12,000 at the beginning of the last century.
) Iran preliminary report indicates no foul play in Raisi's helicopter crashhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/iran-preliminary-report-indicates-no-foul-play-in-raisis-helicopter-crash-18165759 Iranian Armed Forces have released a preliminary report on the investigation into the president’s helicopter crash.Preliminary evaluation indicates that the helicopter continued on its predetermined route without altering its flight path. According to the report, the helicopter caught fire after the crash, and no traces of gunfire or similar damage were found. ) More than 100 people killed by a landslide in Papua New Guineahttps://www.trtworld.com/climate/more-than-100-people-killed-by-a-landslide-in-papua-new-guinea-18165763 A massive landslide has struck Papua New Guinea's highlands, with many feared dead, according to local officials in the region.The disaster hit a village, in Papua New Guinea's remote Enga province, at around 3:00 am local time.The provincial governor said the landslide had caused "loss of life and property".) Growing recognition of Palestine isolating Israel and allies: Turkish FMhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/growing-recognition-of-palestine-isolating-israel-and-allies-turkish-fm-18165720 Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said, "The increasing number of countries recognising Palestine is isolating Israel and its supporters more and more." Speaking at a joint press conference with the Venezuelan Foreign Minister, Fidan said, "It is time for the international community to set aside its silence and take steps to stop the genocide perpetrated by Israel's racist and fundamentalist regime.”) China says drills around Taiwan test 'seizure of power' capabilityhttps://www.trtworld.com/asia/china-says-drills-around-taiwan-test-seizure-of-power-capability-18165753After days into Taiwan's new leader being sworn in, the Eastern Theatre Command of the People's Liberation Army stated that China's military has commenced its second day of war games around Taiwan. The group's spokesman noted that the two-day exercises are testing the 'capability of joint seizure of power, joint strikes, and control of key territories'. And finally…*) Directors at Cannes: Palestinian films 'more important than ever'https://www.trtworld.com/arts-and-culture/directors-at-cannes-palestinian-films-more-important-than-ever-18165426 Veteran Palestinian film director Rashid Masharawi presented his project, "They are the story," at the Cannes Film Festival in France.Managing 20 teams in Gaza from abroad, he directed a collection of short films called "Ground Zero", recounting the Israeli bombardment of Gaza and the ensuing humanitarian disaster from the perspective of civilians on the ground.Norway-based Palestinian director Mohamed Jabaly also said, "Our narrative and storytelling is more important than ever," Palestinian cinema does not have its own tent at the event, but Algeria has made space for its filmmakers at the other end of the international market at Cannes.
) Israel kills 25 Palestinians, including 10+ minors, in Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-kills-25-palestinians-including-10-minors-in-gaza-18165361Israeli strikes have killed 17 Palestinians, including over 10 children, and injured dozens in Gaza City and Rafah. In Gaza City's Al-Daraj neighbourhood, 16 Palestinians died in an Israeli air strike on a house. One Palestinian was killed in Rafah when Israeli forces targeted a house belonging to the Al-Sha'er family.Earlier, Israeli forces hit a house in Al-Nuseirat camp, killing eight Palestinians.) ‘New war crime’: Israel bars scores in Gaza from Hajj amid Rafah invasionhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/new-war-crime-israel-bars-scores-in-gaza-from-hajj-amid-rafah-invasion-18165328Thousands of Palestinians have been barred from performing the Hajj pilgrimage due to Israel’s occupation of the Rafah crossing, the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs said.In a statement, the ministry said that “preventing thousands in Gaza from performing the Hajj is a clear violation of freedom of worship and international humanitarian law.” Hajj, the pilgrimage to Islam’s holiest site Kaaba in Mecca, is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims are required to perform it at least once in life if they have the means to do so.) UN set to vote on commemorating the 1995 Srebrenica genocide annuallyhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/un-set-to-vote-on-commemorating-the-1995-srebrenica-genocide-annually-18165406The UN will vote on creating an annual day to commemorate the 1995 genocide of over 8,000 Bosniaks by Bosnian Serbs. This proposal has faced strong opposition from Serbs, who fear it will label them all as supporters of the genocide.The resolution, sponsored by Germany and Rwanda, doesn’t blame Serbia directly. Despite this, Bosnian Serb President Milorad Dodik and Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic have campaigned against it.The 193-member General Assembly is set to vote on designating July 11 as the “International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica,” to be observed annually starting in two months.) Türkiye applauds Spain, Ireland, Norway’s recognition of Palestinian statehttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-applauds-spain-ireland-norways-recognition-of-palestinian-state-18165045The Turkish foreign ministry said Türkiye is pleased by announcements from Spain, Ireland, and Norway that they will recognise the state of Palestine.The Ministry said in a statement that the “recognition of Palestine is a requirement of international law, justice, and conscience.”*) Macron faces crucial showdown as he lands in restive New Caledoniahttps://www.trtworld.com/australia/macron-faces-crucial-showdown-as-he-lands-in-restive-new-caledonia-18165370French President Emmanuel Macron has landed in the Pacific island of New Caledonia for a series of talks during which he will aim to turn the page on riots triggered by a contested electoral reform.Any attempt to convince the rioters to get off the streets will be a challenge, as will trying to persuade the French-ruled territory’s pro-independence parties who blame Macron and his government for the riots.
) Norway, Ireland and Spain recognise Palestine as a stateNorway, Ireland and Spain have recognised the Palestinian state.Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris called it “a historic and important day” and said the move to recognise the State of Palestine was coordinated with Spain and Norway.Several European Union countries have in the past weeks indicated that they plan to make the recognition official, arguing a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.The efforts come as a mounting death toll from Israel’s war on Gaza prompts calls globally for a ceasefire and Palestinian recognition.) Tens of thousands gather for Raisi's funeral in TehranTens of thousands of Iranians have flocked to the streets of Tehran to join the funeral processions of president Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage, who died in a helicopter crash.In the centre of the city, people holding portraits of Raisi gathered in and around the University of Tehran, where Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, is due to lead prayers for Raisi and his companions, including foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian.) Blinken unsure Israel will make compromises for Saudi normalisation dealUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he was unsure whether Israel was ready to make compromises to reach a deal to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, notably on a pathway to an independent state of Palestine.His frank assessment came after Jake Sullivan, US President Joe Biden’s national security advisor, visited both countries and briefed the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the “potential” of a possible deal.But Blinken acknowledged doubts about whether Netanyahu and his hard-right government would meet Saudi demands if the normalisation issue became more than “hypothetical.”) Schools shut in India, Pakistan as temperatures soar to 47.4CAuthorities in several parts of India and Pakistan have announced the closure of schools amid intense heat waves.The decision comes as temperatures soar to alarming levels, posing significant risks to the health and safety of students and educators alike.The India Meteorological Department said the Najafgarh area in the capital New Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 47.4 degrees celsius. Pakistan, on the other hand, is currently sizzling with temperatures between 38 and 43 degrees celsius, which are likely to soar to 46 degrees celsius in the coming week.*) TRT World bags Telly Award for video series on Zionist movementTRT World has bagged a coveted Silver Telly Award in the News & Information category for its compelling video series on the history of the Zionist movement.This three-episode series delves into the early 19th-century considerations by various Zionist groups to establish a Jewish state in regions such as the United States, Argentina, and Uganda.The Telly Awards, a prestigious US-based competition, received over 13,000 entries this year. TRT World’s series was chosen from among nominations from six continents and all 50 US states.
) ICC prosecutor seeks Gaza ‘genocide’ arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallanthttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/icc-prosecutor-seeks-gaza-genocide-arrest-warrants-for-netanyahu-gallant-18164417The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has said he is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in connection with their actions during Israel’s seven-month war on Gaza.Karim Khan said he believes Netanyahu and his Defence Minister Yoav Gallant are responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.The prosecutor must request the warrants from a pre-trial panel of three judges, who take on average two months to consider the evidence and determine if the proceedings can move forward.) Palestinians in Gaza outraged over ICC request to arrest Hamas leadershttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/palestinians-in-gaza-outraged-over-icc-request-to-arrest-hamas-leaders-18164527Palestinians in besieged Gaza have expressed frustration and anger about the International Criminal Court's request seeking arrest warrants for three Hamas leaders.Yasser al Satari, a Palestinian in Rafah, said the ICC has "equated the victim with executioner," making the "victim and executioner equal."Another displaced Palestinian Mohammad Abdel of Nuseirat camp said those who are defending their land cannot be considered war criminals.) Israel’s onslaught in Gaza ‘not genocide’: Bidenhttps://www.trtworld.com/content/article/live-blog-israels-onslaught-in-gaza-not-genocide-biden-18164529US President Joe Biden has defended Israel’s ongoing carnage in besieged Gaza, saying that what it is happening in the blockaded enclave is “not genocide.”Biden also rejected the decision by International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan to seek arrest warrants for a pair of senior Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.Since October last year, Israel has killed more than 35,000 people — majority of them babies, children and women — and wounded over 79,000, while some 10,000-plus Palestinians are estimated to be buried under debris of bombed homes.) Trump’s ‘hush money’ trial enters critical phase as prosecution rests casehttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/trumps-hush-money-trial-enters-critical-phase-as-prosecution-rests-case-18164525Approximately five weeks, 19 witnesses, reams of documents and a dash of salacious testimony later, the prosecution up against Donald Trump has rested its case, handing over to the defence before closing arguments set for next week.The defence called its first witness, the paralegal of Trump lawyer Todd Blanche, to kick off their case that sees the former president accused of covering up hush money payments to an adult movie actress over an alleged encounter that could have derailed his 2016 White House bid.Monday saw extended quibbling among the legal teams that, along with the upcoming holiday weekend, means closing arguments that the judge had hoped could start on Tuesday are now set for next week.And finally…*) Türkiye declares a day of national mourning for Iran’s Raisihttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-declares-a-day-of-national-mourning-for-irans-raisi-18164508Türkiye will observe a day of national mourning over the death of Iran’s Ebrahim Raisi, the country’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said after his late counterpart perished in a helicopter crash.The crash also resulted in the deaths of Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, as well as that of Malik Rahmeti, the governor of East Azerbaijan province, and Imam Ali Hashim of Tabriz province.
) Iran’s President Raisi, FM found dead at helicopter crash siteIranian state media has reported that President Ebrahim Raisi alongside the country’s foreign minister, and other officials have been found dead at the helicopter crash site.Rescue teams had been scouring the area since Sunday afternoon after the helicopter went missing.Early Monday, relief workers located the helicopter, with state TV confirming the president’s death.) Ireland aims to recognise Palestinian statehood this monthIreland’s prime minister announces that the country will recognise a Palestinian state by the end of this month while emphasising that this decision does not imply a severance of ties with Israel.Sources close to Israeli President Isaac Herzog have said that Herzog cautioned Harris that unilateral recognition of Palestine might jeopardise any chance of Hamas releasing hostages it holds in Gaza and could incite further attacks on Israel.) Fresh floods kill 66 in Faryab, northern AfghanistanFresh floods in Faryab province, northern Afghanistan, have killed 66 people, according to a provincial official.This latest incident adds to a series of deadly floods this month that have devastated the country.The flooding has damaged over 1,500 houses, submerged more than 1,000 acres of agricultural land, and resulted in the deaths of hundreds of livestock.) Taiwan’s new president Lai Ching-te takes officeTaiwan has inaugurated Lai Ching-te as its new president. Lai, a relative moderate, will continue the self-governing island’s policy of de facto independence while aiming to strengthen its defences against China.Lai succeeds Tsai Ing-wen, who guided Taiwan through eight years of economic and social progress despite the Covid-19 pandemic and increasing military threats from China.*) Israelis march for Netanyahu’s resignation, immediate hostage negotiationsThousands of Israelis have taken to the streets in multiple cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa.The demonstrators demanded a hostage exchange with Palestinian resistance groups, the ousting of Netanyahu’s government, and the scheduling of early elections.
) US House votes to force arms shipments to IsraelThe US House of Representatives has passed a bill that would force President Joe Biden to send weapons to Israel, seeking to rebuke the Democrat for delaying bomb shipments.The Israel Security Assistance Support Act was approved by 224 to 187 votes, largely along party lines. Sixteen Democrats joined most Republicans in voting yes, and three Republicans joined most Democrats in opposing the measure.) Israeli war on Gaza killed over 100 academics, researchersGaza authorities have released a list of more than 100 academics and researchers killed by Israeli forces.They have called on the free countries of the world and all educational organisations worldwide to condemn this historical crime and to pressure the Israeli occupation to stop its genocidal war on Gaza.) Students in Germany stage pro-Palestine demonstrationsUniversity students in Berlin protested against a crackdown on Palestine supporters and police violence.Around 300 demonstrators gathered at the Free University of Berlin, reacting to a recent crackdown on Palestine supporters' protests at German universities. They demanded the university administrations withdraw criminal charges against students detained during the demonstrations.There were also demonstrations in several Swiss cities against Israel's war on Gaza, but they were quelled after police intervention.) FIFA to seek legal advice on a proposal to suspend Israel from footballFIFA plans to seek independent legal advice before holding an extraordinary council meeting by July 25 to decide on a Palestinian proposal to suspend Israel from international football due to human rights abuses in Palestine.The FIFA president Gianni Infantino outlined the plan at the FIFA congress after representatives of the Palestinian and Israeli football federations had a chance to speak in front of the 211 member associations.The Palestine Football Association proposal noted “international law violations committed by the Israeli occupation in Palestine, particularly in Gaza” and cited FIFA statutory commitments on human rights and against discrimination.*) OpenAI teams up with Reddit to enhance ChatGPT experienceOpenAI partners with Reddit in a groundbreaking deal to bring its content to ChatGPT, sending the media platform's shares up 12 percent in extended trade.The deal underscores Reddit's attempt to diversify beyond its advertising business and follows its recent partnership with Alphabet to make its content available for training Google's AI models.
) South Africa to ask ICJ to order halt in Israel's Rafah invasionSouth Africa will ask the top UN court to order a halt to the Rafah invasion as part of its case in The Hague accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.The hearings at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court, come after South Africa last week asked for additional emergency measures to protect Rafah.It also asked the court to order Israel to allow unimpeded access to Gaza for UN officials, organisations providing humanitarian aid, journalists and investigators.) Ireland to recognise Palestinian statehood 'this month': top envoyIreland is certain to recognise Palestinian statehood by the end of May, the country's Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said.Martin, who is also Ireland's deputy prime minister, made the announcement to Newstalk radio station without specifying a date.In March the leaders of Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and Malta said in a joint statement that they stand ready to recognise Palestinian statehood.) Several dead, hundreds injured in pro-independence rallies in New CaledoniaAt least three people have been killed and hundreds more injured during a second night of protesting in New Caledonia, authorities say.Demonstrations against a constitutional reform pushed by Paris have roiled the archipelago, which has long sought independence.Despite heavily armed security forces fanning out across the capital and the ordering of a nighttime curfew, protesting continued.) Indonesia’s death toll rises to 67 from Sumatra floods, 20 still missingIndonesian rescuers have raced to find dozens of people still unaccounted for after heavy rains caused flash floods and washed volcanic debris into residential areas.67 people died and 20 people remain missing, according to the national disaster agency.Hours of torrential rain caused mud and rocks to flow into districts near one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes, destroying dozens of houses and damaging roads.*) Meta restores Facebook posts of Malaysian PM Anwar's meeting with HamasMeta Platforms has restored Facebook posts by Malaysian media covering Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's meeting this week with a Hamas leader in Qatar. Earlier, Malaysia had sent a letter asking Meta to explain the removal of the posts by two media organisations about the meeting. In addition, it addressed the closure of a Facebook account last month belonging to a third outlet, the Malaysia Gazette, which covers Palestinian issues.Earlier this month, Meta employees published an open letter calling out the company's internal and external censorship of any show of support for Palestinians.
) Palestinians mark 'Nakba' anniversary amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/palestinians-mark-nakba-anniversary-amid-ongoing-israeli-attacks-on-gaza-18162719Tens of thousands of civilians have fled the southern Gaza city of Rafah in anticipation of a threatened Israeli ground offensive. This mass displacement coincides with Palestinians marking the anniversary of the "Nakba" or "catastrophe" of 1948.On the eve of the "Nakba" commemoration, thousands participated in an annual march through the ruins of villages from which Palestinians were expelled during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. During this conflict, approximately 760,000 Palestinians fled or were forcibly removed from their homes.) Biden moving ahead on $1B arms package for Israel — reportshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-biden-moving-ahead-on-dollar1b-arms-package-for-israel-reports-18162659The Biden administration has informed key lawmakers that it is preparing to send a new package of more than $1 billion in arms and ammunition to Israel.This is according to two congressional aides who spoke on condition of anonymity. But there is no immediate indication of when the arms will be sent. The Wall Street Journal reports that the weapons package includes $700 million in tank ammunition, $500 million in tactical vehicles and $60 million in mortar rounds. ) Israel's Rafah invasion pushed truce talks with Hamas 'backward': Qatari PMhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israels-rafah-invasion-pushed-truce-talks-with-hamas-backward-qatari-pm-18155632Israel's recent invasion in Rafah has significantly hindered truce negotiations with Hamas, according to mediator Qatar. Talks have reached "almost a stalemate," said Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani at the Qatar Economic Forum.He further pointed out that Israeli politicians' statements suggest a commitment to continuing the war, with no clear vision for Gaza's future. ) US vows security for Ukraine as Russian forces make advanceshttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/us-vows-security-for-ukraine-as-russian-forces-make-advances-18159494The United States will continue to support Ukraine until its security is "guaranteed," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced during a visit to Kiev. His statement came just hours after Russian forces reported further advances in the northeastern Kharkiv region.Blinken's trip follows the recent approval of a $61-billion financial aid package for Ukraine by the US Congress, providing arms and support for Ukraine's military. And finally …*) OpenAI's latest update GPT-4o mimics human cadences, detects moodshttps://www.trtworld.com/science-and-tech/openais-latest-update-gpt-4o-mimics-human-cadences-detects-moods-18154900OpenAI has released an update to its artificial intelligence model, GPT-4o, which now mimics human cadences in verbal responses and can detect people's moods. Despite its advanced capabilities, OpenAI clarifies that the new model's primary allure lies in its enhanced performance. GPT-4o operates faster than previous versions and can reason across text, audio, and video in real-time.
) Israel kills more than a dozen in strike on Gaza homeThe Israeli occupation army has struck a home in Gaza's Nuseirat camp, killing more than a dozen people, according to the official Palestinian news agency.Citing medical sources, it said that at least 14 people were killed and dozens of Palestinians, including children were wounded in the strike.Palestinian Civil Defense estimated around 100 people were inside the home that was targeted by Israeli warplanes.) Palestinians to mark 76th year of Nakba on Wednesday On May 15 Palestinians will mark the 76th year of their mass expulsion from land that is now administered by Israel.Palestinians refer to it as the “Nakba,” Arabic for “catastrophe.” Some 700,000 Palestinians — a majority of the prewar population — fled or were forcibly driven from their homes before and during the 1948 war following Israel's establishment.) Blinken in Ukraine to tout US support amid Russian advancesUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Kiev.This is a senior US official's first visit to Ukraine since Congress passed a long-delayed $61 billion military aid package last month.The unannounced trip aims to show US solidarity with Ukraine as it struggles to fend off heavy Russian bombardment on its northeastern border.) Wildfires sweep western CanadaOne of the year's first major wildfires in Canada has closed in on the British Columbia town of Fort Nelson.About 4,700 people were ordered to evacuate from the remote town, as a fire advanced to within 2.5 kilometres of Fort Nelson.*) Columbia University student tears up her diploma A student at Columbia University has ripped up her diploma during a graduation ceremony to protest the institute’s complicity in Israel's genocidal attacks on Palestinians in Gaza.During the commencement ceremony in New York, Tarsis Salome, a Columbia social work graduate tore her diploma to shreds while on stage.The move came after the university cancelled its main graduation ceremony after pro-Palestinian students erected a tent encampment there
) Israel killed 500+ Gaza medics since Oct 7 — health authoritieshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-killed-500-gaza-medics-since-oct-7-health-authorities-18138481 Since October 7 last year, over 500 medical workers in Gaza have been killed by Israel, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in the enclave.This grim statistic was highlighted on International Nurses Day, with 138 nurses among those killed. Health Ministry spokesperson Khalil al-Daqran emphasised the challenges faced by these healthcare professionals, including injuries and detentions in Israeli prisons. ) Egypt to join genocide case against Israel at top UN courthttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/egypt-to-join-genocide-case-against-israel-at-top-un-court-18131402 Egypt has announced its decision to support a genocide lawsuit against Israel, filed by South Africa at the International Court of Justice. This move by Egypt is a response to what it calls the "escalating severity and scope" of Israel's offensive in Gaza, including the targeting of civilians and infrastructure. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry's statement condemned these actions as violations of international law, humanitarian law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention.) Fight between Sudan's army, paramilitaries leave dozens dead in Darfur — UNhttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/fight-between-sudans-army-paramilitaries-leave-dozens-dead-in-darfur-un-18135457 Clashes between Sudan’s army and rival paramilitaries have resulted in at least 27 deaths in the city of El-Fasher in one day, according to the United Nations. Eyewitnesses have described the city being battered by air strikes, artillery fire, and machine gun clashes since Friday, leading to around 850 people being displaced. The UN's ability to verify information is hindered by a communications blackout, leaving medics and human rights defenders struggling to relay news. ) Kashmiris prepare to voice discontent in India's election against Modi https://www.trtworld.com/asia/kashmiris-prepare-to-voice-discontent-in-indias-election-against-modi-18138784 India's national election has resumed, including in New Delhi-administered Kashmir, where voters are expected to express their discontent with significant changes in the disputed region.Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government remains popular in many parts of India and his Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is anticipated to win the election.However, Modi's decision in 2019 to bring Kashmir under direct and strict rule by New Delhi sparked resentment among Kashmiris. This election marks their first opportunity to vote since these changes were implemented.And finally...*) Turkish archer Mete Gazoz becomes European championhttps://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkish-archer-mete-gazoz-becomes-european-champion-18131725 Turkish archer Mete Gazoz has won a gold medal in the men’s recurve category at the Essen 2024 European Outdoor Championships.Gazoz defeated Slovenian Den Habjan Malavasic 6-0 in the final to become the European champion on Sunday.
) Hamas says 'ball is completely' in Israel's hands in truce talkshttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-no-aid-entering-gaza-despite-israeli-claims-authority-18099759 Palestinian resistance group Hamas announced that its delegation attending Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Cairo had left the city for Qatar, adding that the "ball is now completely" in Israel's hands.The group said in a statement, “In practice, the occupation rejected the proposal submitted by the mediators and raised objections to it on several central issues.") UN General Assembly set to back Palestinian bid for membershiphttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/un-general-assembly-set-to-back-palestinian-bid-for-membership-18102557 The United Nations General Assembly is set to back a Palestinian bid to become a full UN member by recognising it as qualified to join and sending the application back to the UN Security Council to "reconsider the matter favorably".The Palestinians are reviving their bid to become a full UN member - a move that would effectively recognise a Palestinian state - after the United States vetoed it in the 15-member UN Security Council last month.The vote by the 193-member General Assembly on Friday will act as a global survey of support for the Palestinians. Diplomats said the draft text is likely to get the support needed to be adopted.) Chad declares Deby Itno winner of presidential electionhttps://www.trtworld.com/africa/chad-declares-deby-itno-winner-of-presidential-election-18099307 Chad's Transitional President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno has been declared the winner of this week's presidential election, according to provisional results.The national agency that manages Chad's election released results weeks earlier than planned. The figures showed Deby Itno won with just over 61 percent of the vote, with the runner-up Succes Masra falling far behind with over 18.5 percent of the vote.) Europe must 'deliver' on promised military aid to Ukraine: EU officialhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/europe-must-deliver-on-promised-military-aid-to-ukraine-eu-official-18093247 President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola has urged Europe to follow through with the aid it has promised Ukraine and increase support to the war-torn country.She was in Kiev on Europe Day to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who praised the European efforts but said Russia had used delays to gain momentum on the battlefield.Metsola said that Europeans need to take responsibility intensify our support for Ukraine. And finally...*) OpenAI set to launch AI-powered search product to rival Googlehttps://www.trtworld.com/science-and-tech/openai-set-to-launch-ai-powered-search-product-to-rival-google-18101841 OpenAI plans to announce its artificial intelligence-powered search product next week, according to two sources familiar with the matter, raising the stakes in its competition with search king Google.Bloomberg and the Information have reported that Microsoft-backed OpenAI is working on a search product to potentially compete with Alphabet's Google and with Perplexity, a well-funded AI search startup. OpenAI declined to comment.
) US won't supply weapons to Israel if it invades Gaza's Rafah city — Bidenhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/us-wont-supply-weapons-to-israel-if-it-invades-gazas-rafah-city-biden-18086860US President Joe Biden has said America will not supply weapons or artillery shells to ally Israel if Tel Aviv invades southern Gaza's Rafah city.Biden admitted in an interview with CNN that “bombs the US has supplied to Israel and now paused have been used to kill civilians.”He said he “made it clear that if [Israeli troops] go into Rafah…” the US will not supply the weapons that have been used historically there.However, he also said the US was still committed to Israel's so-called “defence” and would supply Iron Dome rocket interceptors and other arms.) Israel pounds overcrowded Gaza's Rafah as truce talks resume in Cairohttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israel-pounds-overcrowded-gazas-rafah-as-truce-talks-resume-in-cairo-18078947Meanwhile in Gaza, Israel has bombarded Rafah, where it has launched a ground invasion, as talks resume in Cairo aimed at agreeing the terms of a ceasefire.This week Israel sent tanks into Rafah and seized the nearby crossing into Egypt that is the main conduit for aid into the Palestinian territory.Then overnight heavy Israeli strikes and shelling hit across Gaza as Palestinians scrambled in the dark to pull survivors out from under the rubble of buildings.) Medics uncover 49 bodies from new mass grave at Gaza's al-Shifa hospitalhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/medics-uncover-49-bodies-from-new-mass-grave-at-gazas-al-shifa-hospital-18080518Gaza health workers have uncovered at least 49 bodies at al Shifa hospital, the latest such discovery at the facility previously raided by Israeli forces.Motassem Salah, head of the emergency department at al Shifa, told journalists that "a third mass grave was found inside this hospital”.So far 520 bodies have been recovered from "seven mass graves" found at three different hospitals across Gaza in recent weeks.) Russia's Putin set to mark Victory Day as Ukraine feels the pinchhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/ukraine-thwarts-alleged-russian-plot-to-murder-zelenskyy-two-arrested-18068292 Russian President Vladimir Putin is all set to address the annual Victory Day parade in Moscow, an event he hopes will rally patriotism as his forces advance in Ukraine.The May 9 parade marks the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II and has become one of Russia's most important public holidays under President Putin.The Russian leader has repeatedly framed the current fight against Ukraine as an existential battle against "Nazism"*) Eric Saade wears Palestinian keffiyeh during Eurovision performancehttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/eric-saade-wears-palestinian-keffiyeh-during-eurovision-performance-18085450Swedish singer Eric Saade has performed at the semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh around his wrist.A keffiyeh is a Palestinian scarf that symbolises support of Palestine and protests against Israel’s war on Gaza.He was one of three contestants who opened this year’s Eurovision contest in Malmo city in southern Sweden, which has faced calls for Israel to be excluded.
) Israel kills 7 members of same family in strike on Gaza homehttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-kills-7-members-of-same-family-in-strike-on-gaza-home-18075856 An Israeli air strike targeted a home in Gaza, killing at least seven members of the same family and wounding several others.Al-Ahli Hospital in the besieged enclave reported these casualties, adding to the toll of violence in the region. Eyewitnesses have also noted strikes in other parts of Gaza, notably around Rafah. ) UN running out of fuel in Gaza as border crossings remain shut https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-kills-7-members-of-same-family-in-strike-on-gaza-home-18075856 A critical situation is unfolding in Gaza as essential diesel fuel for pumping drinking water, maintaining communications, and delivering aid is running out.This alarming development follows Israel's closure of two key crossing points into the territory. According to Andrea De Domenico, head of the UN's humanitarian office in the Palestinian territories, Israel's military offensive and evacuation order in Rafah have led to the forced displacement of tens of thousands of people. The area designated by Israel lacks basic necessities like latrines, water points, shelter, and health facilities, as it mainly consists of sand dunes. ) Clashes, arrests as pro-Palestine student protests spread across Europehttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/clashes-arrests-as-pro-palestine-student-protests-spread-across-europe-18070183 Student protests demanding universities sever ties with Israel due to Israel's brutal war on Gaza have gained momentum across Europe. Demonstrations in the Netherlands, Germany, and France saw police intervention as students voiced their opposition to ongoing partnerships with Israeli institutions. Inspired by similar actions in the US, where campuses have seen sustained protests, European students have taken to occupying university spaces, demanding an immediate end to these ties in light of Israel's aggressive actions in Gaza.) Ukraine thwarts alleged Russian plot to murder Zelenskyy, two arrestedhttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/ukraine-thwarts-alleged-russian-plot-to-murder-zelenskyy-two-arrested-18068292 Ukraine's state security service has disclosed the thwarting of an assassination plot against President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other top officials.Two individuals, identified as colonels in Ukraine's state guard service, were apprehended for their involvement in the scheme orchestrated by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). These agents, who leaked classified information to Moscow, were tasked with kidnapping someone close to the presidential guard to later execute Zelenskyy, according to the Security Service of Ukraine.And finally …..*) Eurovision kicking off with pop, protests as war on Gaza casts shadowhttps://www.trtworld.com/arts-and-culture/eurovision-kicking-off-with-pop-protests-as-war-on-gaza-casts-shadow-18069788 Competition in the 68th Eurovision Song Contest kicks off in Sweden, with the war in Gaza casting a shadow over the sequin-spangled pop extravaganza.Performers representing countries across Europe and beyond took the stage on Tuesday in the first of two semifinals in the Swedish city of Malmo.It and a second semifinal on Thursday will winnow a field of 37 nations to 26 who will compete in Saturday’s final against a backdrop of both parties and protests.However, the presence of Israel as a participant has sparked controversy, leading to planned demonstrations on Thursday and Saturday denouncing its war on Gaza, where nearly 35,000 Palestinians have been killed.
) Israel claims control of Rafah crossing, Hamas agreed to permanent ceasefire in Gazahttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israel-claims-control-of-gazas-rafah-crossing-ahead-of-invasion-18059566The Israeli army has said it took control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt and that its troops were "scanning the area."Earlier, Hamas said it agreed to a proposal to end the war in Gaza, including a three-stage truce with the goal of a lasting ceasefire.Each phase would last 42 days and include plans for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, return of displaced Palestinians and an exchange of hostages and prisoners.) Israeli tanks enter southern Gaza city of Rafahhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israeli-tanks-enter-southern-gaza-city-of-rafah-report-18059566Israeli tanks have entered the southern besieged Gaza city of Rafah, reaching as close as 200 metres from its crossing with neighbouring Egypt. The Egyptian official said the "operation" appeared to be limited in scope. Israeli officials informed the Egyptians that their troops would withdraw after completing the "operation.") Putin orders nuclear drills to counter 'Western threats'https://www.trtworld.com/europe/putin-orders-nuclear-drills-to-counter-western-threats-18052049Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered new nuclear weapons drills in the face of Western "threats." Russia's defence ministry has said that the exercises would be held in the "near future" and involve the air force, navy and troops stationed near Ukraine.Putin has upped his nuclear rhetoric, warning in an address to the nation in February that there was a "real" risk of nuclear war.) UNGA to vote on recognising Palestine as full UN memberhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/unga-to-vote-on-recognising-palestine-as-full-un-member-18063245The United Nations General Assembly could vote on Friday on a draft resolution that would recognise Palestine as qualified to become a full UN member.It would effectively act as a global survey of how much support Palestine has for their bid, which was vetoed in the UN Security Council last month by the United States.Diplomats say the 193-member General Assembly is likely to back the Palestinian bid.And finally…*) Columbia cancels graduation ceremony amid pro-Palestine campus protestshttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/columbia-cancels-graduation-ceremony-amid-pro-palestine-campus-protests-18061403Columbia University has cancelled its main graduation ceremony, as colleges seek to contain the demonstrations that have rocked campuses for weeks.The Ivy League school in New York, where at least 100 pro-Palestinian protesters were arrested last week, cited security concerns as it cancelled the ceremony scheduled for May 15.Some students angry at the decision signed an online petition to overturn the decision and had already collected more than 1,400 signatures.
) Israeli army tells Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafahhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-israeli-army-tells-palestinians-to-evacuate-eastern-rafah-18049490The Israeli army has initiated evacuations in certain neighbourhoods near the border in the East of Rafah.An Israeli army spokesperson urged Palestinian residents and displaced persons in several areas east of Rafah to evacuate immediately towards the al Mawasi area, according to state television KAN.Despite growing international opposition, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed Israel will invade Rafah, home to more than 1.4 million displaced Palestinians.) Israeli police raid Al Jazeera office after decision to close broadcasterhttps://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/israeli-police-raid-al-jazeera-office-after-decision-to-close-broadcaster-18039282 Israeli police have conducted a raid on the office of Qatar-owned Al Jazeera television in occupied East Jerusalem.The police seized Al Jazeera’s equipment shortly after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his government had decided to close its operations in Israel.Global human rights organisations and press bodies have criticised the decision, accusing the government of silencing dissent amid Israel's Gaza war.) US police arrest nearly 2,500 students at pro-Palestine rallieshttps://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/us-police-arrest-nearly-2500-students-at-pro-palestine-rallies-18049713 Nearly 2,500 people have been arrested at pro-Palestinian rallies held at college and university campuses across the United States. According to CNN's latest report, the number of arrests since April 18 has exceeded 2,200, while Fox News's report says over 2,400 arrests have been made in total.As demonstrations are expected to continue in the coming weeks, particularly during graduation ceremonies, campus officials are adding extra police security.) Russian strikes on Kharkiv kill one, injures dozens — Ukrainian officialshttps://www.trtworld.com/europe/russian-strikes-on-kharkiv-kill-one-injures-dozens-ukrainian-officials-18049179 On Orthodox Easter Sunday, Russian drone and aerial bombs attacks resulted in casualties and injuries in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv and its surrounding region. Regional officials reported that a woman lost her life after being buried under rubble, and 24 individuals were injured in the assaults.And finally…*) Hundreds protest Israel's participation in Eurovision Song Contesthttps://www.trtworld.com/arts-and-culture/hundreds-protest-israels-participation-in-eurovision-song-contest-18031454 Protests against Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest on May 11 have emerged in the Swedish capital of Stockholm. Hundreds of demonstrators assembled in front of the Swedish Foreign Ministry, calling for a boycott of Israel's involvement in the Eurovision event scheduled to take place in Malmo, Sweden.Two more demonstrations are planned to be held in Malmo, in which thousands of activists supporting Palestine from various European cities are expected to join.
) Türkiye halts trade with Israel until uninterrupted aid to GazaTürkiye has stopped all exports and imports to and from Israel, as a punitive measure against Tel Aviv's brutal war on Gaza that has killed around 34,600 Palestinians in just over six months.The Turkish trade ministry said until the Israeli government allows uninterrupted humanitarian aid flow to Gaza, Türkiye will decisively and resolutely implement the new measures in question.The ministry added that the second phase of state-level measures has been implemented, and all export and import transactions with Israel have been halted.) Israel tortures to death al-Shifa hospital orthopaedic surgeonIsraeli forces have killed Adnan al Bursh who was the head of the orthopaedic department at al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza.According to the Palestinian Prisoner Society, Al Bursh was arrested by the Israeli army last December as he was treating patients at al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza.He was killed at the Ofer Prison in the occupied West Bank and his body is still withheld by the Israeli forces.The NGO said one more detainee identified as Ismail Khader has also died at Israeli prisons.) Ukraine intel official 'doesn't see way' for Kiev to win war against MoscowA senior Ukrainian intelligence official has said that Ukraine will, at some point, have to enter into talks with Russia to bring an end to their more than two-year-old war.Major-General Vadym Skibitsky, deputy chief of Ukraine's HUR military intelligence directorate, told the Economist magazine that talks would eventually be needed, as would be the case with any war.The magazine wrote, "General Skibitsky says he does not see a way for Ukraine to win the war on the battlefield alone. Even if it were able to push Russian forces back to the borders, it wouldn't end the war.") 2,100+ seized, ribs broken, students threatened: Latest on US campus demosThe pro-Palestinian protests on the US campuses, the biggest and most prolonged since the Vietnam demonstrations in the 1960s and 70s, continue despite pro-Zionism rioters attacking students and police cracking down on anti-war students and staff.Tent encampments of protesters are calling on universities and colleges to stop doing business with Israel or firms they say support the brutal war in Gaza.More than 2,100 protesters have been arrested over the last two weeks at universities across the US, including the University of Texas at Austin, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt.*) Palestinian journalists win World Press Freedom Prize for Gaza war coverageUNESCO — the UN body that promotes world peace and security — has awarded its World Press Freedom Prize to all Palestinian journalists covering the war in Gaza, where Israel has turned the tiny Palestinian enclave into the "deadliest" place for journalists.Audrey Azoulay, director general at UNESCO, said the prize paid "tribute to the courage of journalists facing difficult and dangerous circumstances."
) 57 Democrats urge Biden to prevent Israeli invasion of RafahUS President Joe Biden's administration has faced renewed pressure from his fellow Democrats to influence ally Israel not to launch a full-scale invasion of Rafah. Fifty-seven of the 212 Democrats in the House of Representatives signed a letter calling on the administration to take every possible measure to dissuade hawkish Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government from an all-out assault on the city."We urge you to invoke existing law and policy to immediately withhold military aid to the Israeli government to preempt a full-scale assault on Rafah," said the letter.) Australia tiptoes around Indian spy scandal revelationsA string of senior Australian ministers have refused to confirm reports that Indian spies had been uncovered in the country and expelled.Australia's prime minister as well as other ministers dodged questions about allegations that Indian spooks tried to steal defence secrets and monitor expatriate communities in 2020.However, Intelligence bosses have revealed that in 2021 they had rumbled what they call a "nest of Indian spies" sent to Australia to steal defence secrets and monitor their country's expats.) Colombia cuts diplomatic ties with Israel over Gaza warPresident Gustavo Petro has said that Colombia will cut all diplomatic ties with Israel."Diplomatic relations with the state of Israel will be severed, for having a genocidal president," Petro told a May Day rally in Bogota. Petro has been a harsh critic of Tel Aviv's war on Gaza.) US accuses Russia of using chemical weapons against Ukrainian troopsThe United States has accused Russia of having used "the chemical weapon chloropicrin against Ukrainian forces" in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.In addition, Russia has used "riot control agents as a method of warfare in Ukraine, also in violation of the CWC," a statement from the State Department said.*) Female ex-employees sue BBC for discrimination Four female journalists have initiated a gender and age discrimination case against the BBC, claiming they lost their jobs following a "rigged" recruitment exercise.The female journalists who presented on the BBC's television channels were present at a preliminary hearing in London for the employment tribunal.The four women claim that they were paid less than men in equivalent roles and that they unfairly lost their jobs at the BBC News Channel.
) China says Hamas and Fatah met for Palestinian reconciliation talks in Beijing China has said that two rival Palestinian groups Hamas and Fatah recently met in Beijing for "in-depth and candid talks on promoting intra-Palestinian reconciliation"."Representatives of the Palestine National Liberation Movement and the Islamic Resistance Movement recently came to Beijing," the Chinese foreign ministry said."The two sides fully expressed their political will to achieve reconciliation through dialogue and consultation, discussed many specific issues and made positive progress," it added, without specifying when the sides had met.) Paris suspends regional funding for Sciences Po over pro-Palestine protestsThe Paris region authority has sparked outrage after suspending funding for Sciences Po, one of the country's most prestigious universities, over pro-Palestinian demonstrations.Valerie Pecresse, the right-wing head of the region, said on social media that she had decided to suspend all regional funding for Sciences Po until calm and security are restored at the school.) Several killed in mosque attack in western AfghanistanAt least six people have been killed and several others injured in an attack on a mosque in western Afghanistan, local media reported.Unknown gunmen targeted worshipers at a Shia mosque in Herat province during evening prayers.The interior ministry reported that an unknown armed person shot at civilian worshippers in a mosque.) Sunak govt reportedly deports first asylum seeker from UK to RwandaBritain has deported its first asylum seeker to Rwanda. The flight was part of a voluntary scheme separate from a forced deportation programme that Britain is about to embark on in the next few months, seeking to deter asylum seekers from coming to the UK.Under the voluntary scheme, the government has said it would pay asylum seekers up to 3,000 pounds each to move to Rwanda to help clear the backlog of refugees who have arrived in the country in recent years.*) ICJ rejects Nicaragua's plea to stop German arms exports to IsraelThe International Court of Justice has voiced concern over the "catastrophic living conditions” in Palestine’s Gaza, but refrained from issuing emergency measures to stop Germany’s arms exports to Israel.At a hearing in The Hague, the ICJ President said Germany has been a party to major international arms control treaties, and German authorities have already declared that they have limited arms exports to Israel.
) Top UN court to rule in Germany 'genocide' case over GazaThe United Nations' top court will rule on charges by Nicaragua that Germany if facilitating genocide in Gaza by supplying arms to Israel.Nicaragua initiated proceedings against Germany at the International Court of Justice, accusing Berlin of breaching the 1948 Genocide Convention.At a hearing earlier this month, Nicaragua requested the court issue emergency measures for Germany to stop its arms exports to Israel.) Living conditions worsen in Gaza's Rafah amid rising heat, trash pilesMeanwhile, garbage piles up and the heat rises in war-torn Gaza as life becomes even more grim for displaced Palestinians living in tents.Last week, temperatures already topped 30°C, turning the makeshift shelters made from plastic tarps and sheets into sweltering ovens.Rafah hosts about 1.5 million displaced, more than half of Gaza's population which has been besieged and bombarded by Israel for nearly seven months.) Security deal ready for Saudi if it normalises ties with Israel: BlinkenThe United States is nearly ready with a security package to offer Saudi Arabia if it normalises relations with Israel, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said.Blinken was visiting the kingdom on his seventh trip to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which has then launched a relentless offensive in Gaza.President Joe Biden's administration, while supporting Israel, has sought moderation from its government by dangling the prospect of formal relations with Saudi Arabia.) Scores of people dead in western Kenya after dam collapsesAt least 42 people have died when a dam burst its banks near a town in Kenya's Rift Valley, as heavy rains and floods battered the country.The dam bust in Nakuru county, washing away houses and cutting off a road, with rescuers digging through debris to find survivors.Monday's dam collapse raises the total death toll over the March-May wet season to 120 as heavier than usual rainfall pounds East Africa.*) Scotland's first minister Yousaf steps down after a yearHumza Yousaf has announced his resignation as Scotland's first minister, before he was due to face two confidence votes this week.The 39-year-old quit following a turbulent year as head of the devolved administration, during which support for his pro-independence Scottish National Party has fallen.Yousaf had been facing growing calls to resign since unceremoniously ending the party’s power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens in the Scottish parliament.
) Israel kills over a dozen Palestinians in Rafah — medicsIsraeli air strikes have targeted three houses in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, killing at least 13 people and wounding numerous others, according to medics. Additionally, Israeli planes struck two houses in Gaza City in the north of the enclave, which health officials say resulted in several casualties.These strikes occurred amid ongoing Israeli violence and tension, with over a million people in Rafah seeking shelter from previous bombardments. ) World Central Kitchen to resume Gaza ops after Israel killingsWorld Central Kitchen has resumed operations in Gaza after seven of its aid workers were killed in an Israeli strike earlier this month.In a statement, the charity's chief executive officer emphasised the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and their commitment to providing food assistance with renewed energy and focus. The organisation plans to deliver food to as many Palestinians as possible, including in the northern region, by utilising various transport methods: land, air, or sea routes. ) Heat wave kills two Palestinian children in GazaThe UN refugee agency UNRWA has reported that at least two Palestinian children have lost their lives due to a severe heat wave in Gaza. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini expressed deep concern, highlighting the challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza: death, hunger, disease, displacement, and now extreme heat conditions. This situation compounds the ongoing difficulties caused by a deadly Israeli offensive that killed more than 34,400 people and injured thousands.) Ukraine signals worsening front amidst Russia's new gainsUkraine's army leader has acknowledged a deteriorating situation on the battlefield as Russian forces seized another village in eastern Ukraine. In a Facebook post, Oleksandr Syrsky admitted that Ukrainian troops had retreated westwards to establish new defensive lines along the front near Donetsk.He noted that Russia holds a significant advantage in manpower and ammunition, allowing them to make advances despite heavy fighting.*) Palestinian writer wins Arabic Fiction Prize after 20 years in Israeli jailPalestinian writer Basim Khandaqji, who was imprisoned in Israel 20 years ago, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 International Prize for Arabic Fiction.He won for his novel "A Mask, the Colour of the Sky” at a ceremony held in Abu Dhabi.Khandaqji was born in Nablus in the Israeli-occupied West Bank in 1983 and began writing short stories until his arrest at the age of 21.
) Bodies found in Gaza mass graves suggest 'organ theft' by IsraelParamedics and rescue teams involved in retrieving civilian bodies from the mass graves discovered at the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis have reported organ theft by Israeli military and claimed some Gaza victims were buried alive in the recently discovered graves.At least 392 bodies, including 165 unidentified individuals, were unearthed from three mass graves following the withdrawal of Israeli military from Khan Younis.Rights groups expressed concerns over the discoveries around Nasser Hospital where a mutilated body of a young girl in a surgical gown was found, suggesting she may have been buried alive, alongside another victim similarly attired.) China warns US of 'downward spiral' in ties during Blinken visitChina has urged US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to address rising disagreements or risk a "downward spiral" between the two powers as talks opened in Beijing.Blinken, paying his second visit to the rival country in less than a year, voiced hope for progress but said he would directly raise areas of difference, which are expected to include Russia, Taiwan and trade.Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, receiving Blinken said relations between the world's two largest economies were "beginning to stabilise" after leaders Joe Biden and Xi Jinping met at a November summit.) WCK founder voices frustration over Israel's explanation for killing staffThe seven World Central Kitchen aid workers killed by Israeli air strikes represented the "best of humanity" who risked everything "to feed people they did not know and will never meet," Jose Andres, the celebrity chef who founded the organisation, told mourners who gathered in the US capital to honour the dead.Speaking at Washington National Cathedral, Andres said the official [Israeli] explanation of their killing is not good enough, and there was no excuse for it."I know we all have many unanswered questions about what happened and why," Andres told mourners, demanding an investigation.) Students in France join pro-Palestine rally, mirroring US campus protestsStudents in Paris have protested again after police broke up a pro-Palestine solidarity demonstration the night before at one of France's most prestigious universities.Students at Sciences Po [Paris Institute of Political Studies] accused management of calling in police to break up a pro-Palestinian protest by dozens of students gathered on a central Paris campus on Wednesday night."The director has crossed a red line by deciding to send in the police," Ines Fontenelle, a member of the Student Union at Sciences Po, said as 150 students gathered again.*) Philippines blocks 'genetically modified rice' production over safety fearsA Philippine court has blocked the commercial propagation of genetically modified golden rice after it was found unsafe for health and the environment.Philippines was the first country to approve golden rice, enriched with Vitamin A to combat childhood blindness.However, the Court in Manila revoked a biosafety permit for commercial rice production after opponents filed a challenge.
) Ben-Gvir evacuated from building besieged by Israeli protestersIsraeli police evacuated extremist minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from a building in the occupied West Jerusalem that was surrounded by protesters, including families of hostages in besieged Gaza.Local media reported that hundreds of Israeli protesters gathered in the area near the building with Ben-Gvir inside.The police evacuated the notorious minister from the scene after its officers secured him.) American-Israeli hostage says Israel killed 70 captives in Gaza strikesPalestinian resistance group Hamas has released a video of an Israeli-American man who was among the soldiers and civilians captured by the fighters on October 7.The video shows Hersh Goldberg-Polin calling on PM Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right government to do more to secure the captives' release.In the video, he also accused the Netanyahu government of abandoning the people who are being held in Gaza by Hamas.. ) Tense stand-offs continue as Gaza war protests spread at US campusesColumbia University has said it was making "important progress" with pro-Palestinian student protesters who set up a tent encampment and was extending a deadline to clear out.Student anti war protests spread across US universities as demonstrators demanded that their institutions condemn Israel’s war on the besieged Gaza and divest from Israeli firms in response.) US military aid for Taiwan increases conflict risk — ChinaChina has warned that US military support for Taiwan only increased the "risk of conflict" along the strait after the US Congress allocated $8 billion in military support for the island.Chinese foreign ministry spokesman has said that the United States and Taiwan strengthening military ties will not bring about security for Taiwan but will only increase tensions and the risk of conflict across the Taiwan Strait.*) Fury as Malala teams up with pro-war Hillary ClintonNobel laureate Malala Yousafzai is facing a backlash after the premier of a Broadway musical she co-produced with former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.The musical, titled "Suffs" and playing in New York since last week, depicts the American women's suffrage campaign for the right to vote in the 20th century.Yousafzai, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, has been condemned by various quarters for partnering with Clinton, an outspoken supporter of Israel's invasion of Gaza.
) UN raises 'war crime' alert as 300+ bodies are found in Gaza mass gravesReports of mass graves found in Gaza over the weekend at Nasser Hospital and Al Shifa Hospital have prompted renewed concerns about possible war crimes by Israel.Some of the Palestinian victims were found stripped naked with their hands tied, according to the UN.UN rights chief Volker Turk said "the intentional killing of civilians, detainees, and others who are hors de combat is a war crime.”) US Senate overwhelmingly passes $26.6B military aid for IsraelMeanwhile, the US Senate has passed a $26.6 billion military package for Israel, the American ally accused of carrying out genocide in Gaza using US weapons.US President Joe Biden pledged to quickly sign the $61 billion bill — which also includes aid packages for Ukraine and Taiwan — after Congress gave its final approval.Israel's war on Gaza, now in its 201st day, has killed at least 34,183 Palestinians — 70 percent of them children and women.) Malaysian navy helicopters collide, killing all crew aboardTwo Malaysian navy helicopters have collided in mid-air during a rehearsal for a naval parade, killing all 10 crew members aboard.The incident occurred at the Lumut naval base in the western state of Perak on Tuesday morning, the navy said.All victims were confirmed dead at the scene and sent to the military hospital for identification, the navy said.) North Korea officials embark on rare public visit to IranA North Korean delegation is visiting Iran, the North's official media has said in a rare public report of an exchange between the two countries believed to have secret military ties.The minister for external economic relations, Yun Jong-ho, left Pyongyang on Tuesday by air leading a ministry delegation to visit Iran, the North's KCNA news agency said. It gave no other detail.*) Human rights groups slam UK Rwanda plan after Parliament approves billThe UK’s plans to send some asylum-seekers to Rwanda has been swiftly condemned by international humanitarian organisations.This comes after Parliament approved legislation allowing the deportation flights to begin later this year.Both the UN refugee agency and the Council of Europe called for the UK to rethink its plans because of concerns that the legislation undermines human rights protections.
) Israel's claims against UNRWA lack evidence: UN reviewIsrael has yet to provide any proof of its allegation that some UN agency staff are members of Palestine's resistance groups.This is according to an independent review of the neutrality of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).The review was led by former French foreign minister Catherine Colonna to respond to Israeli allegations that some UNRWA staff took part in Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.) Pro-Palestine protests spread across US universitiesMeanwhile, classes at Columbia University have been shifted online as protests over Israel’s carnage in besieged Gaza heightened tensions across US campuses.A large group of demonstrators had established a "Gaza Solidarity Encampment" on lawns at Columbia.Protests also spread to other campuses, including MIT, New York University and Yale, where at least 47 people had been arrested after refusing requests to disperse.) Outrage as India's Modi, in quest for votes, calls Muslims 'infiltrators'India's main opposition party has filed a complaint against Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi for "blatantly targeting" minority Muslims in a campaign speech calling them “infiltrators”.The complaint, filed to the country's Election Commission, said Modi’s comments were "divisive,” “malicious" and targeted Muslims in India.The comments were "far worse than any ever made by a sitting Prime Minister in the history of India", it said.) UK Parliament passes Rwanda deportation plan for asylum-seekersThe UK government’s plan to deport migrants and asylum seekers to Rwanda has been cleared by Parliament after a marathon tussle.Members of the upper house repeatedly sent back the plans with amendments to MPs in the lower chamber but eventually agreed to make no further changes, ensuring the bill would now become law.British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak vowed to begin sending asylum seekers to Rwanda within 10 to 12 weeks.*) Militants take 110 civilians hostage in central MaliSuspected militants in central Mali are holding more than 110 civilians they abducted six days ago.Three buses carrying the civilians were stopped by "militants", who forced the vehicles and the passengers to head towards a forest.Mali has since 2012 been ravaged by different factions affiliated with Al Qaeda and Daesh, as well as by self-declared, self-defence forces and bandits.
) Scores of bodies found in two mass graves at hospital in Gaza’s Khan YounisPalestinians have exhumed scores of bodies from two mass graves at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis city in southern Gaza, according to officials.The director-general of Gaza’s government media office said “some 150 bodies have been found in the two graves.”He said around 700 people are still unaccounted for since the Israeli withdrawal from Khan Younis on April 7th following a four-month ground offensive.) Baby in Gaza saved from womb of mother killed in Israeli strikeA baby girl has been delivered from the womb of a Palestinian killed along with her husband and daughter by an Israeli attack in the Gaza city of Rafah.The baby was delivered in an emergency C-section. Her mother, Sabreen Al Sakani, had been 30 weeks pregnant.At least 19 people were killed in the overnight Israeli strikes, including 13 children from one family, Palestinian health officials said.) US House passes aid to Ukraine, Israel and other alliesThe US House of Representatives has passed a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other US allies overseas.House Speaker Mike Johnson had unveiled a plan to hold votes on four separate foreign aid bills and later combine them into a package, a move that angered some far-right House Republicans.In addition, the House voted in favour of a bill to effectively ban TikTok in the US – if it is not bought by a US company – with a vote of 360-58.) Pro-China leader's party wins Maldives voteMaldives President Mohamed Muizzu's party has won control of parliament in an election landslide, results showed.Muizzu's People's National Congress (PNC) secured more than two thirds in the 93-member parliament, according to provisional results from election officials.The win indicates voters backed his tilt towards China and away from regional powerhouse and traditional benefactor India.*) Ecuadorians vote in favour of referendum to extradite mafia bossesA solid majority of Ecuadorian voters have approved a referendum paving the way for the extradition of organised crime bosses.Some 65 percent of valid votes were marked "yes" on the matter of extradition, and 35 percent marked "no," according to electoral authorities.President Daniel Noboa hailed the result as Ecuador continues to grapple with a shocking rise in violence, flaring up due to a rise in narcotics trafficking.
) Iran fires air defence batteries as Israel reportedly strikes IsfahanIran has activated its air defence system over several cities after its semi-official Fars news agency reported explosions at the central Isfahan airport.Spokesman for Iran's civilian space programme Hossein Dalirian said that several small "quadcopter" drones had been shot down following what a senior US official told ABC News were Israeli missile strikes.) NY police arrest Columbia University students protesting Israel's Gaza warNYC police said they arrested several students from Columbia University for protesting Israel’s war on Gaza as they rallied in support of Palestine.Students had been protesting on campus since last Wednesday, demanding the school divest from companies they claim "profit from Israeli apartheid" and Israeli military actions in besieged Gaza.Following the arrests, students from Columbia and Barnard College have been suspended from school, including US Representative Ilhan Omar’s daughter.) Türkiye urges decisive international action against Israel's war on GazaTürkiye's Deputy Foreign Minister and UN representative Ahmet Yildiz has called for decisive international action to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza.After condemning Israel's actions in Palestine's Gaza, Yildiz said, “the UN Charter, the bedrock of international law, is still routinely breached.”He said that no country is immune from its obligations to international law and questioned the lack of action by the UNSC in response to Israel's "brazen violations.” ) Pakistan police thwart suicide bombing targeting Japanese nationalsPakistan police shot down a suicide bomber and a militant during an attempted attack on a vehicle carrying five Japanese nationals.The police spokesperson, Abrar Hussain Baloch, said the Japanese survivors have been moved to a safe place in police custody.There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attempted attack from any militant group.*) India begins voting in the world's largest election as Modi seeks third termOver 970 million voters head to the polls in India to elect 543 members for the lower house of Parliament for a five-year term.The six-week election period began today and will run until June 1, with votes being counted on June 4.India’s Hindu-nationalist prime minister Narendra Modi will test the limits of his political dominance as he seeks a third term as the country's leader.
) Qatar re-evaluating its role as mediator in Gaza ceasefire negotiationsQatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said his country is re-evaluating its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas on reaching a ceasefire in Gaza and will take an “appropriate decision”.Al Thani’s remarks came during a press conference held in Doha with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan.He said consultations were held with Türkiye’s foreign minister and they agreed on “the necessity for all parties to resort to de-escalation, dialogue and resolving issues in the region logically, not through weapons and violence.”) Israeli attack could spark regional war — JordanJordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said an Israeli retaliation against Iranian strikes could bring a real risk of dragging the whole region into a devastating war.In an interview released by state media, Safadi said his country was lobbying major powers against an escalation that would have far-reaching consequences for regional stability and security.Safadi said, "The risks are enormous. That could drag the whole region into war, which would be devastating to us in the region and we’ll have very, very serious implications for the rest of the world including the US.") Russian missile barrage on Ukraine city kills 18Rescuers were removing mountains of rubble from the site of a lethal Russian missile strike on Ukraine's historic city of Chernigiv, where at least 18 people were killed in an attack that has prompted fresh pleas for allies to boost Kiev's overstretched air defence systems.Three Russian missiles hit the northern Ukrainian city, causing casualties and prompting rescue efforts to find survivors and assist the wounded.) Columbia university president pushes back over allegations of anti-SemitismFour months after a heated hearing in Congress caused two Ivy League presidents to step down, Columbia University's president faced the same committee. Columbia President Nemat Shafik strongly condemned anti-Semitism at her campus, rejecting accusations that she's allowed Columbia to become a centre of hate.The Columbia university president said the school suspended 15 students and took disciplinary action against several faculty members.And finally… *) Thousands evacuated as Indonesia volcano eruptsIndonesian rescuers raced to evacuate thousands of people after a volcano erupted five times, forcing authorities to close a nearby airport and issue a warning about falling debris that could cause a tsunami.The volcano in Indonesia's outermost region was still billowing a column of smoke, prompting authorities to shut the nearest international airport in Manado city on Sulawesi island for 24 hours.
) Israeli aggression in Gaza signals failure of army — HamasThe Palestinian group Hamas said that the madness directed against Palestinian civilians in Gaza reflects the failure of the Israeli army. Hamas leader Izzat al Rishq said in a statement, "The Nazism of the occupation army was revealed in some images at Al Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza City, where the worst massacre against the health sector in the world was committed'' and that "the Zionist madness against civilians signals the complete failure of the occupation army in front of the resistance and is a reflection of Zionist terror from larger developments.’') Türkiye-Iraq relations to shift positively after upcoming visit: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasised that relations between Türkiye and Iraq will be grounded on a different basis ahead of his upcoming visit to Baghdad.Erdogan said "The Iraqi side attaches great importance to this visit," further highlighting the significance of enhancing relations with Iraq during the briefing held with press members in Ankara. The Turkish president underscored the water issue as a key agenda item, noting that Iraq has raised concerns and requests regarding water resources.) Outrage as US university cancels Muslim valedictorian's commencement speechA top US university has cancelled its plans for a graduation speech by a meritorious Muslim student after pro-Israel groups criticised her selection and the varsity reportedly received threats by email, phone and letter.The decision announced by the University of Southern California is the latest controversy to roil American higher education since Israel's war on Gaza began in October last year.Asna Tabassum, who has been attacked online for being "anti-Zionist", had been selected as class valedictorian — an honorary role whose holder traditionally gives a speech in front of up to 65,000 people.) Dubai airport diverts flights amid widespread flooding in UAE, OmanDubai's major international airport diverted scores of incoming flights as heavy rains lashed the United Arab Emirates, causing widespread flooding around the desert country.The world's busiest air hub for international passengers confirmed a halt to arrivals before announcing a "gradual resumption".And finally… *) X blocks India election posts after takedown ordersSocial media platform X blocked several posts in India containing political speech after authorities ordered their takedown ahead of the general election that starts Friday.X, formerly known as Twitter, said the posts would be withheld from Indian audiences until the election was over despite its disagreement with the order.The posts by elected politicians, political parties and candidates made unverified claims about the private lives of their opponents, which India's election commission said violated its code of conduct.
) Mass grave found at Al Shifa Hospital in GazaAl Jazeera Arabic has reported that a mass grave at Al Shifa Hospital was discovered by the Palestinian Health Ministry and Civil Defence Forces in Gaza.The extracted bodies had not fully decomposed, suggesting that the 'executions' took place recently, possibly during Israel’s two-week military invasion. The Gaza Emergency Operations Centre Director Motasem Salah said the World Health Organization and OCHA are trying "to identify the decomposed bodies and the body parts that were crushed" from their wallets and documents.) Israeli war cabinet divided over response to Iran attackFollowing Iran's retaliatory strike against Israel on Saturday, Israel’s Channel 12 reported that “There is consensus on the necessity of responding to the Iranian attack, but disagreements revolve around the scale and timing of the response.” The broadcaster noted that some in the war cabinet advocate for an immediate 'eye for an eye' approach, while others emphasise the importance of strategic planning for a robust response. ) What unfolded on Day 1 of Donald Trump's historic hush money trialDonald Trump has entered history as the first American president to stand trial on criminal charges.The Republican presidential candidate for the upcoming elections faces charges of falsifying business records to conceal "hush money" payments at the height of the 2016 presidential election.Trump is expected to be in court 4 days a week during the trial, which could last 6 to 8 weeks, including presentations by the parties and witness hearings.) Crimes against Muslims in Germany have more than doubled in 2023The German Press Agency DPA reported that the number of crimes against Muslims in Germany has more than doubled last year. According to the DPA, almost 1,500 Islamophobic crimes took place across Germany in 2023, compared to 610 hate crime incidents in 2022. The dramatic surge in anti-Muslim hate crimes could be linked to the Israeli war on Gaza, according to the report.*) Türkiye's tourism booms as millions of visitors flocking in early 2024Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism stated that over 4.3 million tourists visited the country in the first two months of 2024. According to entry/exit statistics, the number of foreign visitors to Türkiye in the first two months increased by 12 percent compared to the same period last year. Most foreign visitors came to Türkiye from Iran, Bulgaria, and Russia.
) US rules out joining any Israeli attack against Iran The United States has said it will not join any Israeli attack on Iran, with US President Joe Biden warning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to "think carefully" about any escalation.The White House said Biden did not want a wider war after helping key ally Israel repel an aerial attack by Tehran — itself in retaliation for a presumed Israeli strike that killed an Iranian general in Damascus.) Israeli war cabinet divided over response to Iran attackDisagreements have arisen among members of Israel’s war cabinet over the scale and timing of an attack on Iran. Israel’s Channel 12 reported that while there is consensus on the necessity of responding to the Iranian attack, the Israeli war cabinet differs on whether to strike Iran at a larger scale or to keep the attack confined to a small area.Earlier on Sunday, the Israeli public broadcaster KAN said the response to the Iranian attack “was canceled at the last minute” after a phone call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden.) Russia aims to capture Chasiv Yar by May 9 Ukraine's top commander has said Russian forces aimed to capture the town of Chasiv Yar by May 9, setting the stage for an important battle for control of high ground in the east where Russia is focusing its assaults.Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskiy, who warned this weekend that the situation in the east had deteriorated, said Russia was focusing its efforts west of Bakhmut to try to capture Chasiv Yar before moving towards the city of Kramatorsk.Kiev's brigades were holding back the assaults in the Donetsk region for now and had been reinforced with ammunition, drones and electronic warfare devices, he said in a statement on the Telegram messenger.General Oleksandr Syrskiy said "the threat remains relevant, taking into account the fact that the higher Russian military leadership has set its troops the task of capturing Chasiv Yar by May 9".) Britain’s 1st migrant deportation flights to Rwanda to take off 'within weeks'Britain’s health secretary said that the first flights carrying migrants to Rwanda will take off "within weeks" while not disclosing whether the government had found a carrier.Victoria Atkins said they want flights carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda from Britain to take off "as quickly as possible."Asked whether the government has found an airline to carry out the flights amid reports that Rwanda's airline would not do so, she replied: "The Home Office is working on this and is ready to go."*) Türkiye's Fenerbahce win back-to-back EuroLeague Women titles in basketballTurkish basketball club Fenerbahce Alagoz Holding defended their FIBA EuroLeague Women crown with a 106-73 win against French opponent Villeneuve d'Ascq LM on Sunday.US small forward Napheesa Collier scored 33 points for Fenerbahce’s women's team to be the highest scorer of the 2024 final held in Mersin, Türkiye. Collier, Emma Meesseman and Kayla McBride combined for 72 points for the Istanbul giants as Fenerbahce became the first Turkish club to win the EuroLeague Women title twice.
US curbs diplomats' movements in Israel over Iran ultimatum The United States has issued a security alert to its diplomats in Israel, asking them to cut down their daily outdoor activities. The American embassy in Jerusalem cited concerns of Iranian retaliation over an Israeli strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus earlier in April that left seven Iranian military officials dead. An embassy notice said, "Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel" outside the Tel Aviv, West Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice. No Security Council 'consensus' on Palestinian UN membership: presidency Members of the UN Security Council failed to reach a consensus on a bid by Palestinians for full UN membership. Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the council's rotating presidency for April, confirmed that the deadlock continued during a closed-door meeting. Israelis protest against Netanyahu in Tel Aviv Protesters have again taken to the streets in Tel Aviv to demonstrate against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government and call for the release of dozens of captives held in Gaza.Demonstrators carried large photos of captives as well as signs with slogans, some in English and some in Hebrew. US House speaker negotiating Ukraine aid with White House House Speaker Mike Johnson is negotiating with the White House as he prepares for the treacherous task of advancing wartime funding for Ukraine and Israel through the House, a top House Republican said. House Republican Leader Steve Scalise told reporters that Johnson had been talking with White House officials about a package that would deviate from the Senate's $95 billion foreign security package and include several Republican demands. Japan calls for law-abiding fix to handling of frozen Russian assets Japan's finance minister Shunichi Suzuki said that any handling of frozen Russian assets must abide by international law. He added that the topic will likely be discussed at next week's meeting of his counterparts from G7 advanced economies.The EU and the Group of Seven nations (G7) froze some 300 billion euros of Russian central bank assets following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The EU and G7 have been debating if and how these funds can be used for over a year. China, Türkiye must dissuade Iran from retaliating against Israel — Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged his Turkish, Chinese and other counterparts to use their influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel, the State Department said. Blinken spoke by telephone over the past day to his Chinese, Turkish, Saudi and European counterparts "to make clear that escalation is not in anyone's interest and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters on Thursday. CNN report on Gaza 'Flour Massacre' reveals Israeli disinformation drive A CNN investigation has unveiled significant discrepancies in the Israeli military's account of a devastating incident on February 29 in Gaza, now widely referred to as the "Flour Massacre." The CNN report, substantiated by eyewitness testimonies and video evidence, raises serious questions about the transparency of Netanyahu's extremist government, casting doubt on their official narrative. US will defend Philippines from any attack in South China Sea — BidenUS President Joe Biden has pledged to defend the Philippines from any attack in the South China Sea, as he hosted the first joint summit with Tokyo and Manila amid growing tensions with Beijing. "The United States' defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad," Biden said as he met Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday.
) Israel will invade Rafah and return to Khan Younis — ministerIsrael's war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has claimed without proof that Palestinian resistance group Hamas has been defeated militarily and the Israeli army will invade Rafah and reoccupy Khan Younis, a local media outlet reported. ) EU lawmakers approve major revamp of pact on migration and asylumEuropean Union lawmakers have approved a major revamp of the bloc’s migration laws on how to manage the entry of thousands of people without authorisation.The members of the European Parliament voted on Wednesday on the "Pact on Migration and Asylum", regulations and policies meant to help address the issue of who should take responsibility for migrants and asylum seekers when they arrive.The proceedings were briefly interrupted by a group of demonstrators in the public gallery who wore shirts marked “this pact kills” and said “vote no!”The 27 EU member countries must now endorse the reform package, possibly in a vote in late April before it can enter force.) South Korea's PM, top officials offer resignations over election defeatSouth Korea's prime minister and senior presidential officials have offered to resign en masse, media reports said, after their conservative ruling party suffered a crushing defeat in parliamentary elections.The results of Wednesday's election posed a huge political blow to President Yoon Suk-yeol, setting back his domestic agenda and leaving him facing an intensifying political offensive by his liberal opponents during his remaining three years in office.Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and top advisers to Yoon submitted their resignations on Thursday, South Korean media, including Yonhap news agency, reported. Yoon's office didn't immediately officially confirm the reports.In a separate news conference, ruling People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon said he would step down as well to take responsibility for the election defeat.With most of the votes counted, the main opposition Democratic Party and its satellite party appear to have won a combined 175 seats in the 300-member National Assembly.Another small liberal opposition party was expected to win 12 seats under a proportional representation system, according to South Korean media tallies.Yoon's ruling People Power Party and its satellite party were projected to have obtained 109 seats.The final official results were expected later Thursday.) Trump takes another dig at Jewish voters who back BidenDonald Trump has lashed out at Jewish voters who back President Joe Biden and framed this year's election as a referendum on the strength of Christianity in the US, part of his sharp-edged continuing appeal to evangelical conservatives who are a critical element of his political base.Speaking in Atlanta ahead of a fundraiser, the presumptive Republican nominee on Wednesday renewed his running criticism of Biden's reaction to Israel's brutal war on besieged Gaza."Biden has totally lost control of the Israel situation," said Trump, whose rise in 2016 depended heavily on white Christian conservatives."Any Jewish person who votes for a Democrat or votes for Biden should have their head examined.”And finally…*) We have two years to save the planet: UN climate chiefGovernments, business leaders and development banks have two years to take action to avert a far worse climate crisis, the UN's climate chief has said in a speech that warned global warming is slipping down politicians' agendas.Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change said on Wednesday that the next two years are "essential in saving our planet"."We still have a chance to make greenhouse gas emissions tumble, with a new generation of national climate plans. But we need these stronger plans, now," he said.
) Israel blocks food three times more than other aid in Palestine's Gaza: UNIsrael has been blocking far more convoys carrying food aid within Gaza, where famine is looming, than convoys carrying other kinds of aid, the UN said.On Tuesday, a spokesman for the United Nations' humanitarian agency pointed to statistics from March showing that it was much more difficult to get clearance for delivering food than other aid in the war-ravaged Palestinian territory.Israel is facing mounting international pressure to allow more aid into Gaza, which is facing a humanitarian catastrophe six months into the start of Israeli bombardment.) Australia considers recognising independent Palestinian stateAustralia has become the latest country to advocate formal recognition of a Palestinian state.Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on Tuesday that recognising a state of Palestine could restart the moribund Middle East peace process and undermine extremist forces in the Middle East."Recognising a Palestinian state — one that can only exist side by side with a secure Israel — doesn't just offer the Palestinian people an opportunity to realise their aspirations", she told an audience in Canberra."It also strengthens the forces for peace and undermines extremism. It undermines Hamas, Iran and Iran's other destructive proxies in the region.") Palestine hails Turkish export restrictions on Israel amid Gaza onslaughtIsrael threatened to hit back at Türkiye over its decision to restrict exports of certain goods, saying they will “appeal to pro-Israel countries and organisations in the US to stop investments in Türkiye and prevent the import of products from Türkiye.”Israel will "contact countries and organisations in the US to stop investments in Türkiye and to prevent the import of products from Türkiye, and to our friends in the American Congress to examine a violation of the boycott laws and impose sanctions on Türkiye accordingly,” Israel Katz, Tel Aviv’s foreign minister, said on X on Tuesday.A statement by Katz’s office said he ordered the Foreign Ministry’s economic office to “draw up an extensive list of products that Israel will prevent Türkiye from exporting to Israel.” “Türkiye unilaterally violates the trade agreements with Israel, and Israel will take all necessary measures against it,” the statement said.) Europe's top court condemns Switzerland in landmark climate rulingEurope's top rights court has said Switzerland was not doing enough to tackle the climate crisis in a historic decision that could force governments to adopt more ambitious climate policies.Hopes had been high for a legal turning point ahead of the rulings in the three cases, treated as a priority by the 17 judges of the court's Grand Chamber.The Swiss association of Elders for Climate Protection — 2,500 women aged 73 on average — had complained about the "failings of the Swiss authorities" in terms of climate protection that could "seriously harm" their health.The court ordered the Swiss state to pay the association almost $87,000 within three months.And finally…*) Nobel prize-winning physicist Peter Higgs dies at 94Nobel prize-winning physicist Peter Higgs, who proposed the existence of the so-called "God particle" that helped explain how matter formed after the Big Bang, has died at age 94, the University of Edinburgh said.The university, where Higgs was an emeritus professor, said he died on Monday following a short illness.Higgs' work helps scientists understand one of the most fundamental riddles of the universe: how the Big Bang created something out of nothing 13.8 billion years ago. Higgs won the 2013 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work, alongside Francois Englert of Belgium, who independently came up with the same theory.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday April 9th.) 'Pathetic': Nicaragua drags Germany to ICJ over Gaza aid, weapons to IsraelNicaragua has hauled Germany before the International Court of Justice to demand judges impose emergency measures to stop Berlin from providing Israel with weapons and other assistance.Lawyers for Nicaragua on Monday argued Germany was in breach of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, set up in the wake of the Holocaust, by furnishing Israel with weapons.In 2023 some 30 percent of Israel's military equipment purchases came from Germany, totalling $326 million - a tenfold increase on 2022.Germany will respond fully in court on Tuesday but has hit back at the allegations.) UNSC revives Palestine's bid for full UN membershipThe United Nations Security Council has said it would decide this month on Palestine's bid for full UN membership.As the Gaza war rages on into its seventh month, the council's decision on Monday was described as "historic" by Palestine, but angrily denounced by Israel.Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the rotating presidency of the council, said that "the council has decided that this deliberation has to take place during the month of April."Any request to become a UN member state must first pass through the Security Council — where Israel's ally the United States wields a veto — and then be endorsed by the General Assembly.) EU eyes offshoring refugees but avoids UK-style Rwanda planThe European Union is open to the idea of sending refugees and migrants to outside countries, even if it is not willing to go quite as far as following Britain and its plans to fly refugees to Rwanda.The concept of using third countries to host asylum-seekers who have reached Europe is seen in a deal Italy has recently struck with non-EU nation Albania.It is also foreshadowed in reform of EU migration and asylum laws that the European Parliament puts to a vote on Wednesday, and which contains a provision for sending asylum-seekers to a "safe" third country.) Türkiye-Israel trade volume drops amid Gaza invasion — reportTürkiye has restricted the export of certain products to Israel until it implements a ceasefire and allows “sufficient and uninterrupted flow" of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the Turkish Trade Ministry said.The requirements of this decision will be immediately implemented. The annex listed several types of aluminium and steel products, paint, electric cables, construction materials, and other materials.The ministry also said that the decision will remain in effect until Israel, within the framework of its obligations arising from international law, declares an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and allows a sufficient and uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, adding that Türkiye “has not allowed the sale of any product or service that can be used for military purposes to Israel” since a long time.And finally…*) 'Spectacular' total eclipse leaves North Americans spellboundPeople across North America — from a Mexican seashore to breathtaking Niagara Falls on the US-Canada border — have followed the solar eclipse and cheered the celestial show and, in Arkansas, were getting married en masse.Where clear skies prevailed, observers along the direct path of the eclipse were treated to the rare spectacle of the Moon appearing as a dark orb creeping in front of the Sun, briefly blocking out all but a brilliant halo of light, or corona, around the Sun's outer edge on Monday.It was North America's first total eclipse since 2017.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, April 8th.) ICJ to hear against Germany for ‘facilitating’ Israel’s genocide in GazaGermany faces charges from Nicaragua at the top UN court that it is “facilitating” acts of genocide and breaches of international law in Israel’s war on Gaza.In a 43-page submission to the International Court of Justice, Nicaragua argues that Germany is in breach of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, set up in the wake of the Holocaust.Nicaragua is demanding the judges impose emergency measures to stop Berlin providing Israel with weapons and other assistance.The Central American country will set out its case on Monday, with Germany due to respond the following day.) Hamas ‘determined’ in Gaza truce, hostage swap deal with IsraelPalestinian resistance group Hamas has reiterated its commitment to securing a deal that brings a cessation of hostilities.A delegation from Hamas arrived in Cairo and met with Abbas Kamel, head of the General Intelligence Directorate of Egypt, the movement said in a statement.The statement emphasised Hamas’ demands for an agreement that ensures the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the repatriation of hostages.In addition, Egyptian media noted that truce discussions would extend for the next 48 hours.) Diplomatic staff leaves Ecuador after embassy raid — MexicoMexico’s diplomatic personnel have begun leaving Ecuador after the two countries severed ties.On Friday, Quito’s security forces stormed the Mexican embassy in a bid to arrest former Ecuadorian vice president Jorge Glas, who was sheltering at the embassy.A day after the raid, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said that diplomatic personnel and their families would leave Ecuador.) Ferry sinks, 90 people killed off Mozambique coastMore than 90 people have died when an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, local authorities say.According to the officials, the converted fishing boat, carrying about 130 people, ran into trouble as it tried to reach an island off Nampula province.Many children were among the victims, he added.Rescuers had found five survivors and were searching for more, but sea conditions were making the operation difficult.And finally…*) Green onion outcry: humble vegetable scandal shakes up South Korea voteUsed widely in South Korean cooking, green onions are dominating discussions ahead of the April 10 vote after an apparent gaff by the president sparked online outcry.President Yoon Suk Yeol visited a grocery store in the capital Seoul and said green onions were at a “reasonable price”.But local media reported that the store he visited had specially discounted the vegetable ahead of the president’s visit.His comments sparked an avalanche of online memes, with the opposition claiming the politician was out of touch and people brandishing green onions at campaign rallies.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, April 5th) Israel promises to open Gaza aid routes after US arm-twistingIsrael has said it will allow ‘temporary’ aid deliveries across its fence with northern Gaza, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office announced after a tense warning phone call from US President Joe Biden. The announcement coincides with increased international scrutiny of Israel after it accepted responsibility for a strike that killed seven employees of the US-based charity World Central Kitchen.The statement from the prime minister’s office outlined that Israel will allow the temporary delivery of humanitarian aid through Asdood Port and Erez crossing, known as Beit Hanoun to Palestinians. ) Israel ramps up defence, fearing Iran’s retaliationThe Israeli military is bolstering its defences following a deadly strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that reportedly killed 16 people, including seven Iranian Revolutionary Guard members has led to threats of retaliation. Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari confirmed the measures, which include suspending leave for combat units, blocking GPS signals in certain areas, and increasing manpower.) Russia says destroyed over 40 airborne targets in Rostov-on-donThe governor of Russia’s Rostov-on-Don region has said air defence units destroyed more than 40 aerial targets, although an electricity substation was damaged.Writing on the Telegram messaging app, Vasily Golubev said the drone strikes had focused on the Morozovsk district, north-east of Rostov-on-Don, which lies on Ukraine’s eastern border.) Madagascar seeks removal of EU envoy who criticised law for child rapistsMadagascar has demanded that the EU replace its ambassador to the island nation after she criticised a new law passed in February that allows child rapists to be chemically and surgically castrated.The request came after the EU’s ambassador, Isabelle Delattre Burger, denounced the law contrary to international norms and Madagascar’s constitution.The EU is evaluating the demand in consultation with the Malagasy government, with the regular rotation of ambassadors due in September.And finally…*) Missing dog found 2,000 miles from California homeA dog that went missing in California has been found more than 3,000 kilometres away in suburban Detroit, leading to a dramatic reunion with her owners.Police picked up Mishka, a terrier mix who went missing last July, and took her to a shelter after a resident reported a stray dog near Harper Woods in the Midwestern state of Michigan.Staff at the Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society found that she had a microchip that identified her owners live 3,771 kilometres away in San Diego — making it unclear how she had travelled so far.After being alerted, her owner Mehrad Houman and his family will fly back to California Mishka after being examined by a veterinarian.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Palestine reignites its quest for full UN seat amid Israel's warPalestine has revived its bid for full UN membership, according to a letter from its UN envoy Riyad Mansour to the UN secretary-general. The application, submitted to the Security Council, seeks a new review in April 2024 and the move underscores Palestine's long-standing push for global recognition of its statehood.Observers note the challenges ahead, as Israel's ally the US, which holds veto power on the Security Council, could derail the recommendation.Nevertheless, Palestine's bid has been backed by various organisations, including the League of Arab States and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, underlining international support for Palestinian aspirations.) Türkiye condemns Israeli attack on Iranian diplomatic mission in DamascusTürkiye has strongly condemned Israel's attack on an Iranian diplomatic mission in Damascus, describing it as a violation of international law and urged all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to international law.At least 11 people were killed in Monday's attack, including two Iranian Revolutionary Guard generals and several military advisers. This incident comes amidst Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza, raising fears of further escalation and the potential for a broader regional conflict.) NATO mulls $107B 'Trump-proof' military fund for Ukraine NATO foreign ministers are meeting to discuss the establishment of long-term military assistance to Ukraine, including a proposed $107 billion fund. The initiative, proposed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, aims to give NATO a more direct role in coordinating arms deliveries to Ukraine, potentially replacing the US-led Ramstein Group.The move is seen as a measure to ensure continued assistance to Ukraine and guard against potential aid disruptions, especially if Donald Trump returns to the White House, diplomats said.) Faye sworn in as Senegal's youngest presidentSenegal has sworn in Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Africa's youngest elected president at the age of 44, who previously worked as a tax inspector.Following his inauguration, Ousmane Sonko, a popular opposition figure central to Faye's victory, was appointed the country's new prime minister. Faye pledged to build a sovereign, just and prosperous Senegal, noting the need for systemic change.*) 'Strongest earthquake in 25 years' shakes Taiwan, causing tsunamiA 7.5 magnitude earthquake kills at least four people in Taiwan during the morning rush hour, making it the strongest in 25 years and causing widespread damage.With its epicentre near Taroko National Park, the victims included three hikers killed by rockslides.Buildings across the island suffer damage, with schools evacuating students to sports fields equipped with safety gear. Train and subway services are suspended, and traffic halts along the East Coast due to landslides and falling debris, causing damage to vehicles and infrastructure.
) Biden admin mulls whopping $18B arms package for Israel: reportThe Biden administration is currently considering an $18 billion arms package for Israel, including the sale of F-15 aircraft and ammunition, according to three sources familiar with the matter.The sale of 25 F-15s to Israel has been under consideration since the US received the formal request in January 2023.Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant recently stressed the importance of maintaining Israel’s military edge, including its air capabilities, in talks with senior US officials, including National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.) Israel targets Gaza aid group, killing multiple foreign staffersFive people, including four foreigners, working for an aid organisation were killed in an Israeli air strike on their vehicle in the central Gaza town of Deir al Balah, according to local officials.The victims, including nationals from the UK, Poland and Australia, were part of a team from World Central Kitchen, a US-based aid organisation founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres.The workers’ vehicle was hit by an Israeli missile shortly after delivering aid from a ship in northern Gaza, according to eyewitnesses and Palestinian Red Crescent paramedic Mahmoud Thabet.) Palestine seeks vote on full UN membership at Security Council The Palestinian Authority intends to seek full membership of the United Nations this month, according to Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN envoy.Mansour revealed Palestinian plans for Israel’s brutal war on besieged Gaza and the expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The aim is to put the issue to a vote at a ministerial meeting on April 18, although no specific date has yet been set for the vote.The Palestinian application for full membership, submitted in 2011, remains pending as the Security Council has yet to take a formal decision on it.) Russia and Ukraine trade drone claims over Black SeaRussia and Ukraine have reported shooting down each other’s drones over the Black Sea, indicating an escalation in their ongoing conflict and a growing focus on unmanned aerial vehicles.Russia’s defence ministry said on Telegram that its air defence units had intercepted six Ukrainian drones attempting a “terrorist attack.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian air force spokesman Illya Yevlash announced on national television the downing of a Russian ‘Forpost’ drone, describing it as sophisticated and expensive.*) Google to delete billions of files containing Chrome-linked personal dataGoogle has reached a settlement after a lawsuit alleged it tracked millions of US users in incognito mode, agreeing to delete a vast amount of search data if approved by a judge.The proposed settlement, filed in San Francisco federal court, mandates Google to “delete and/or remediate billions of data records” associated with users utilising Chrome browser’s incognito mode.The settlement, which excludes monetary damages and allows users to sue Google individually for damages, will be reviewed by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers on July 30.
) US, Israel to discuss Rafah invasion in virtual meeting: reportThe US and Israel will hold a virtual meeting to discuss alternative proposals from the Biden administration regarding a possible Israeli military invasion of Rafah, where more than 1.5 million Palestinians are taking refuge, Israeli and US officials confirmed to Axios.The meeting, originally scheduled for last week, was cancelled by Netanyahu in protest at a perceived lack of US involvement as tensions escalated after the US refrained from vetoing a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.) Israeli forces admit most Gaza killings are civiliansThe Israeli newspaper Haaretz collected testimony from Israeli officers and soldiers involved in the Gaza war who reportedly admitted that the majority of individuals classified by the army as “terrorists” were actually civilians.The Israeli army claimed that 9,000 terrorists were killed during the Gaza war. However, the officers and soldiers in the report testify to Haaretz that those killed were civilians, their only crime being crossing an invisible line drawn by the Israeli army.Another soldier also stated that they were explicitly instructed to shoot to kill any suspect who ran into a building, even if it resulted in serious civilian casualties.) Azerbaijan warns Armenia against military ‘provocation’ along border Azerbaijan has warned Armenia against any military build-up on the border, saying any provocation would be dealt with firmly.In a statement on Sunday, Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry said intensive movements and military build-ups by the Armenian army had been observed recently.The ministry also added that there has been a further activation of revanchist forces threatening Azerbaijan with war and a concentration of manpower, armoured vehicles, and artillery installations in different directions of the Azerbaijani-Armenian conditional border.) Rockets target Libyan PM’s residence, no casualties reportedThe residence of Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah was targeted with rocket-propelled grenades in an attack that caused no casualties, a Libyan minister told the press.The minister, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed in a statement on Sunday that the attack had caused some damage.The minister did not give further details.*) Erdogan declares local elections ‘turning point’ for TürkiyeTürkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said the results of the local elections marked a “turning point” for his Justice and Development Party.Regarding the outcome of the local elections, Erdogan vowed to “respect the decision of the nation.”Speaking from the party’s headquarters in the capital Ankara, Erdogan said his party had failed to achieve the expected results in Sunday’s local elections and that the party “would evaluate the results of the local elections with an open heart within the party and will engage in self-criticism.”
) Israel must ensure urgent aid, food gets into Gaza without delay: ICJThe world's top court has ordered Israel to "ensure urgent humanitarian assistance" in Gaza without delay, saying "famine has set in".It also said, "Israel shall take all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay the unhindered provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance," in GazaAnd that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine, but famine is setting in". ) Israeli strikes in Syria's Aleppo kill 33 people — reportIsrael's air strikes on the Syrian countryside near Aleppo have killed and wounded at least 33 civilians and regime soldiers, according to several media reports and officials.Syrian regime news agency SANA said that "at approximately 1:45 am, the Israeli enemy launched an air attack from the direction of Athriya, southeast of Aleppo", adding that "civilians and military personnel" had been killed and wounded in the strike on Friday.However, the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said the casualties consisted of military personnel, and the attack killed at least "36 Syrian soldiers" and targeted an area "near rockets depots belonging to Lebanese group Hezbollah".) 'Evidence' links Ukraine to Moscow massacre — Russia Russia said it had evidence that the perpetrators of last week's massacre at a concert hall outside Moscow were linked to "Ukrainian nationalists", a claim the United States called "nonsense".Despite a Daesh affiliate claiming responsibility, President Vladimir Putin and his security services continue to claim that Kiev and the West were somehow involved in the attack, which killed at least 143 people.The Russian Investigative Committee has also said they found evidence linking the detained terrorists with Ukrainian nationalists through analysis of seized technical devices and financial transactions.) US seeks to stop exports to 600+ defence firms with Russia tiesA US Commerce Department official said that they are asking American companies to voluntarily stop shipping goods to more than 600 foreign parties out of concern that the items could be diverted to Russia for use in its attack on Ukraine. He said that the Commerce Department had sent letters to at least 20 companies in recent weeks with the warning in its latest effort to stop Russia's war in Ukraine.The companies in question make and sell products found in missiles and drones found in Ukraine.*) China's Xiaomi to enter highly competitive EV market for first timeChinese tech giant Xiaomi is set to unveil its first EV at a press conference in Beijing, entering a fiercely competitive sector in the world's biggest car market.Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun said the SU7 EV will "stake its reputation" to challenge Chinese car giant BYD and Elon Musk's Tesla.Lei said the SU7, available in blue bay, olive green, or elegant grey, even includes "sound simulation" to recreate the thrill of driving a sports car.
) Prepping for Rafah invasion, Israel orders 40,000 tents from ChinaIsraeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the purchase of 40,000 tents from China to be set up in besieged Gaza, Israeli media reported, in preparation for a ground invasion of Rafah.It comes as Netanyahu downplayed global fears of a humanitarian catastrophe if Israel launches a planned ground invasion into Gaza’s southernmost city, where more than 1.5 million displaced Palestinians have taken refuge.Speaking to a US Congressional delegation visiting Israel, Netanyahu said people sheltering in Rafah will be able to move away from the fighting.) Biden team official flags plausible genocide in Gaza, resigns in protestA US State Department official has resigned in protest of the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s war on Gaza.Annelle Sheline, who worked as a foreign affairs officer in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour, accused Washington of “directly enabling” a plausible genocide in the besieged Palestinian enclave.Sheline wrote in an article for CNN that she was “unable to serve an administration that enables such atrocities,” and resigned.) F-16s won’t change anything in Ukraine battlefield: PutinRussian news agencies quoted President Vladimir Putin as telling military pilots that if Western countries supply Ukraine with F-16 fighters, the aircraft will not alter the situation on the battlefield.Putin said the fighters can carry nuclear weapons and Moscow would have to take account of that in its military planning.Putin’s remarks followed comments by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba that the F-16 aircraft should arrive in Ukraine in the coming months.) Colombia kicks out Argentine diplomats after Milei calls Petro ‘terrorist’Colombia has ordered the expulsion of Argentine diplomats from their embassy in the Andean nation, Colombia’s Foreign Ministry said.It cited “denigrating” comments by Argentine President Javier Milei about Colombian President Gustavo Petro.In a recent interview with news channel CNN, which has not yet been aired in full, Milei called Petro a “terrorist”, “murderer” and “communist”.*) Vinicius Junior breaks down as he laments racism in Spanish footballReal Madrid and Brazil star Vinicius Junior broke down in tears at a news conference as he spoke about the racism he suffered in Spain.The 23-year-old forward said, “Playing football is important, but the fight against racism is very important.”Vinicius said that racism is a global problem and noted that football’s governing bodies could all “do more things.”
) Isolated, US & Israel see UN states back report on Israeli genocide in GazaThe UN expert who concluded Israel was committing acts of genocide in besieged Gaza has received broad support at the United Nations, with countries speaking up to back her and her report.Francesca Albanese, the special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, told the UN Human Rights Council that countries should impose an arms embargo and sanctions on Israel.Albanese said Israel was characterising the entire Palestinian population in besieged Gaza as “targetable, killable and destroyable” and had ostentatiously laid bare its “genocidal intent” to “rid Palestine of Palestinians.”) ‘He swam to get food for his children’: 12 drown as US drops aid off GazaPalestinian resistance group Hamas has demanded a halt to aid airdrops after 18 people drowned while attempting to reach the dropped supplies.The group said Israel must lift its brutal siege and allow aid into Gaza via land crossings.Six people were killed in stampedes and 12 others drowned off the territory’s Mediterranean coast trying to salvage aid packages.) Russia claims downing 18 airborne targets in BelgorodRussia has claimed that its air defence units downed 18 airborne targets over the southern region of Belgorod bordering Ukraine, the regional governor said.Writing on the Telegram messaging app, the governor of the Belgorod region said one person was injured and there was damage to private homes and cars.Ukraine has been staging air attacks for months on Belgorod and two nearby regions, Kursk and Voronezh.) India court bans Muslim religious schools in UP state ahead of electionA court in India has effectively banned Muslim religious schools in the country’s most populous state of Uttar Pradesh.The ruling last week scraps a 2004 law governing Muslim religious schools in Uttar Pradesh, saying it violates India’s constitutional secularism and ordering that students be moved to conventional schools.The Allahabad High Court order affects 2.7 million students and 10,000 teachers in 25,000 religious schools across the state.*) Türkiye stands firm against false claims of defence ties with IsraelTürkiye has rejected allegations of cooperation with Israel, particularly defence-based cooperation, saying the country will not do anything that will harm Palestinians and their cause.The country’s defence ministry said, “It is not possible for the Republic of Türkiye, which has always supported Palestine, to carry out or engage in any activity that would harm Palestinians.”The statement came after false claims by some media outlets that Türkiye continues to export gunpowder, weapons and ammunition to Israel.
) UNSC finally demands Gaza ceasefire in Ramadan after US abstains voteThe UN Security Council for the first time in 5 months since the Israeli war on Gaza started has demanded an immediate ceasefire after the United States, Tel Aviv’s ally which vetoed previous drafts, abstained.All 14 other members voted in favour of the resolution, which “demands an immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Islamic holy month of Ramadan.It also demanded the “immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs.”) Blinken tells Gallant alternatives exist to Rafah invasionUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stressed that “alternatives exist to a ground invasion of Rafah” in a meeting with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.Speaking about Rafah, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller earlier highlighted that a “full-scale invasion would be a mistake and that Israel has not presented a coherent evacuation plan for Rafah.”But on top of that, Miller said, “This type of invasion would weaken Israel’s security and would make Israel less safe, not more safe. It would undermine its standing in the world.”) Pakistan foils BLA terror attack on naval air station in Balochistan Pakistani security forces have foiled a late-night attack on a naval air station in southwestern Balochistan, according to officials. Four to six heavily armed militants tried to enter PNS Siddiq in Turbat district last night. However, security forces “neutralised all the attackers” and no loss to any “sensitive equipment or casualties of our own troops” has so far been reported, a senior military official told Anadolu Agency. There was no official statement from the military.) Haiti delegates squabble over choosing leader as gang violence escalatesEfforts to form a transitional government and fill a power vacuum in violence-torn Haiti have failed as delegates bickered over the choice of a leader and death threats prompted one member to quit over the weekend.After Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned, the body, supported by the United Nations and regional bloc CARICOM, among others, is still struggling to come into shape two weeks after Henry’s March 11 announcement.Meetings were held over the weekend and on Monday, with a virtual summit between the delegates and CARICOM scheduled, the members of the Council are expected to try to elect a leader.*) EU launches probe of Apple, Google, Meta compliance with new digital lawThe EU has hit Apple, Google parent Alphabet and Meta with the first-ever probes under a mammoth digital law, which could lead to big fines against the US giants.Among six firms named as market “gatekeepers” under the EU’s landmark Digital Markets Act — along with Amazon, TikTok owner ByteDance and Microsoft — the companies have been obliged to comply with the new law since March 7.Under the new rules, the commission can impose fines of up to 10 percent of a company’s total global turnover. This can rise to up to 20 percent for repeat offenders. In extreme circumstances, the EU can order the break up of companies.
) UN agency for Palestinians barred from North Gaza aid deliveriesThe United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees says that Israel had definitively barred it from making aid deliveries in northern Gaza, where the threat of famine is highest.The head of the agency Philippe Lazzarini said on X that “despite the tragedy unfolding under our watch, the Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any UNRWA food convoys to the north.”He called the decision “outrageous,” saying the decision makes it intentional to obstruct lifesaving assistance during a “man-made famine.”) Israeli war to only end with Jews settling in northern Gaza: Knesset memberThe head of the Knesset’s National Security Committee Zvika Fogel has said “the Israeli war on Gaza will end with Jews settling in northern Gaza,” while speaking to Israeli public broadcaster KAN. He added that “Israel must end the war when Jews settle in the entire northern Gaza Strip.”Fogel called for encouraging the “voluntary migration” of Palestinians from Gaza saying, whoever wants to “voluntarily migrate” will receive a “grant” from him.) Four suspects remanded in custody over Moscow concert attackFour men accused of involvement in the massacre at a Moscow concert hall that killed 137 people have been remanded in custody, as Russia observed a national day of mourning following the attack claimed by the Daesh terror group.President Vladimir Putin has vowed to punish those behind the “barbaric terrorist attack,” and said the four gunmen had been arrested while trying to flee to Ukraine. Kiev has strongly denied any connection to the attack. All four suspects have been charged with terrorism, according to Moscow’s Basmanny district court, and face life imprisonment.) Senegal anti-establishment candidate leads in presidential pollSenegal’s anti-establishment candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye appeared to be closing in on a first-round victory in a presidential poll.Opposition figure Faye had promised voters “a profound change” and a presidential programme of left-wing pan-Africanism.Faye was well ahead of former ruling coalition Prime Minister Amadou Ba, according to preliminary results from individual polling stations published by local media and on social networks.*) Pro-Palestine protesters stage event at New York Metropolitan Art Museum Protesters covered the steps of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art with a large patchwork blanket displaying messages of solidarity with Palestine to draw attention to Israel’s war on Gaza. Many demonstrators gathered on the steps of the museum, also known as The Met as they chanted slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “How many children did Israel kill today?” They also distributed brochures that highlighted the museum’s silence over Israel’s “genocide” of Palestinians and its support for its war in Gaza, advocating for a world where justice prevails.
) Blinken to press Israel for 'immediate' truce in Gaza warUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken heads to Israel to press for a truce in Gaza, ahead of a key UN Security Council vote on a US draft resolution calling for an "immediate" ceasefire.Israel's main backer the United States announced it would submit for a vote on Friday a draft to the Security Council on the need for an "immediate ceasefire as part of a hostage deal", after repeatedly using its veto power to block other similarly worded resolutions. ) UK, Australia call for ‘immediate cessation of fighting’ in GazaBritain and Australia declared the need for an "immediate cessation of fighting" in Gaza, as diplomatic pressure built on Israel to ditch a planned ground assault on the southern city of Rafah.After a meeting of Australian and UK foreign and defence ministers in Adelaide, Australia the allies stressed the "urgency of an immediate cessation of fighting in Gaza to allow aid to flow and hostages to be released".) Trump faces backlash from US Jews over his remarks about Jewish votersSeveral members of the US Jewish community have expressed criticism towards former President Donald Trump following his recent comments, where he accused Jewish Democrats of being disloyal to their faith.Jonathan Sarna, an American Jewish history professor, highlighted that Trump's remarks are exacerbating tensions within the Jewish community.Sarna noted, "For people who hate Donald Trump in the Jewish community, certainly this statement will reinforce their sense that they don’t want to have anything to do with him." ) Russian missile strikes damage power supply in Ukraine's KharkivAbout 15 blasts were heard in Ukraine's Kharkiv, mayor Ihor Terekhov said, and Russian missile strikes appeared to be targeting the city's power supplies, causing partial blackouts.Terekhov did not report any casualties. He said some of the city's water pumps had stopped because of the attacks.In central Ukraine, Kryvyi Rih mayor Oleksandr Vilkul said blasts were heard in the city, but provided no details. And finally…*) Oil prices decline amid potential Gaza ceasefire, dollar strengthOil prices slipped on the possibility of a nearing Gaza ceasefire that could ease geopolitical concerns in the Middle East, while a stronger dollar and faltering US gasoline demand also weighed on prices.US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he believed talks in Qatar could reach a Gaza ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Brent crude futures fell by 0.5 percent to $85.36 a barrel, while US crude futures dropped 0.5 percent to $80.67/barrel.Both contracts are set to end the week little changed after rising more than 3 percent last week.
) US submits UN resolution for 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza The United States has submitted a draft resolution to the UN Security Council, calling for an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza linked to the release of hostages. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced it during his visit to Saudi Arabia, where discussions on the ongoing Israel's war on Gaza were held. The resolution is aimed at addressing the escalating situation and garnering international support for peace efforts in the region.) Nearly 70 ex-US officials urge Biden to take hard line on IsraelA group consisting of nearly 70 former US officials, diplomats, and military officers has issued an open letter urging President Joe Biden to warn Israel of serious consequences should it deny civil rights and basic necessities to Palestinians, as well as expand illegal Zionist settlement activity in the occupied West Bank.The letter calls for concrete action from the United States to oppose such practices, including potential restrictions on assistance to Israel consistent with US law and policy. The group highlighted Israel's invasion, citing "repeated violations" of international law prohibiting indiscriminate killing and the use of weapons that fail to discriminate between combatants and civilians.) 'We have shown flexibility' to reach ceasefire deal in Gaza: HamasPalestinian group Hamas has expressed flexibility in reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel in Gaza. Hamas leader Osama Hamdan stated during a press conference in Beirut that the resistance movement has demonstrated openness to an agreement, shifting the onus onto Israel to respond. Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas have resumed in Doha, Qatar, aiming to establish a truce in Gaza. Hamdan outlined Hamas's vision for a comprehensive agreement, emphasising key priorities such as halting aggression, facilitating the return of displaced individuals, withdrawing occupation forces from Gaza, and enabling aid entry.) UN warns Sudan among 'worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory'The United Nations has issued a dire warning regarding the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, describing it as one of the worst in recent history after nearly a year of conflict. Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations at the UN Office for the Coordination for Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), lamented the lack of action from the international community, labelling the situation a "humanitarian travesty." Speaking on behalf of UNOCHA head Martin Griffiths, Wosornu emphasised the urgent need for attention and action, highlighting the significant scale of humanitarian needs, displacement, and hunger facing Sudanese civilians. *) Musk's Neuralink unveils brain-chip patient playing online chessElon Musk's brain-chip startup, Neuralink, has achieved a significant milestone by live-streaming its first patient using a chip implanted in his brain to play online chess. Noland Arbaugh, a 29-year-old who was paralysed below the shoulder following a diving accident, utilised the Neuralink device to control the cursor on his laptop while playing chess. The implant, designed to enable individuals to control a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts, marks a remarkable advancement in neurotechnology. Arbaugh, who received the implant from Neuralink in January, previously demonstrated the ability to control a computer mouse using his thoughts, as confirmed by Musk last month.
) Gaza hospital hit in intense Israeli raid for second dayExplosions and shootings have once again rocked Gaza's largest hospital, Al Shifa, and its surrounding neighbourhoods as Israeli forces storm through the facility for a second day.This latest raid deals a devastating blow to the already-strained Al Shifa medical complex, which had only partially resumed operations after a destructive Israeli raid in November.Reports indicate that thousands of Palestinian patients, medical personnel, and displaced individuals are currently trapped within the sprawling hospital compound, with heavy fighting raging in the nearby districts.) Canada to halt future arms exports to Israel — reportA Canadian government source revealed that Canada is ceasing its arms shipments to Israel. The decision marks a significant shift as Ottawa has only exported "non-lethal" shipments such as communications equipment to Israel since its war on blockaded Gaza.According to the source, no arms exports have occurred since January.Israel has historically been a major recipient of Canadian arms, receiving over $15 million worth of military materials in 2022 and $19 million in 2021, as reported by Radio Canada.) US, Israel defence chiefs to meet in WashingtonIsraeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant is scheduled to meet with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin next week in Washington. This confirmation comes from a US defence official speaking anonymously to disclose details not yet public.The meeting's agenda is reported to include discussion of securing the release of hostages, humanitarian aid to Gaza and protecting those in Rafah.) UN chief alarmed by killings of civilians in MyanmarUnited Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over reports of continued military air strikes on villages in Myanmar's Rakhine state. Locals reported that more than 20 people were killed in these strikes on Monday alone.The clashes in Rakhine state have intensified since November, following an attack by the Arakan Army on security forces, effectively ending a ceasefire established after the military coup in 2021.And finally…*) Japan hikes rates for first time in 17 yearsJapan's central bank has scrapped its negative interest rate as it finally began unwinding one of the world's most aggressive monetary easing programmes.Implemented in 2013, the unconventional policy aimed to stimulate economic growth and inflation following Japan's prolonged period of economic stagnation, often referred to as the "lost decades."In a historic move, the Bank of Japan raised its short-term policy rate for the first time in 17 years from -0.1 percent to a range between zero and 0.1 percent.
) MSF urges blocking Israel’s Rafah assaultDoctors Without Borders chief Christopher Lockyear warns against Israeli war in southern Gaza's Rafah, citing a potential catastrophe that must not be allowed to happen. His concerns stem from a recent visit to the Palestinian enclave, where he witnessed the urgent humanitarian needs at the densely populated Rafah crossing. Lockyear urges diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict escalation, emphasising the importance of stability. MSF stands prepared to offer aid amidst ongoing tensions in the region.) Israel blocks UNRWA chief from entering besieged GazaUN's relief agency for Palestinians or UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini expressed frustration as Israel barred his entry into Gaza, a territory facing a looming famine. During a press conference in Cairo, Lazzarini disclosed the denial, which disrupted his planned visit to Rafah. He accused Israeli authorities of the denial on social media and underlined that Palestinian children are dying of dehydration and hunger.) US' Blinken travels to Saudi Arabia, Egypt for potential Gaza truceMeanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarks on a crucial trip this week, aiming to secure a ceasefire and boost humanitarian aid in Israel's Gaza war.His journey begins in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, where talks with Saudi leaders in Jeddah are pivotal for regional stability. Following Saudi Arabia, Blinken will fly to Cairo on Thursday for talks with Egyptian authorities.) 50 allies to meet as US funds for Ukraine's defence ceaseUS Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin aims to reassure European allies of President Joe Biden's commitment to support Ukraine amid concerns over funding challenges. Austin leads discussions at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group summit at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where approximately 50 allies convene to provide military assistance, emphasising collective efforts to bolster defence capabilities. Despite obstacles, Austin reaffirms US commitment to Ukraine's security, aiming to galvanise collective action and solidarity to address evolving challenges.*) Nvidia unveils powerful 'superchip' for AINvidia has unveiled its latest chip for powering artificial intelligence, known as Blackwell, as it seeks to consolidate its position as the major supplier to the AI frenzy.The new chip has 208 billion transistors, more than double the 80 billion on the company's previous chip.All of those transistors can access the memory attached to the chip at nearly the same time, improving productivity.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, March 18th.) Aid arrives in north Gaza’s Jabalia for 1st time in four monthsThe Israeli army has allowed nine trucks carrying humanitarian aid to enter northern Gaza including Jabalia, Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahiya.The aid, which consisted of flour, rice, canned food and sugar, arrived at the Jabalia refugee camp under the auspices of the security services of the Gaza government in cooperation with Palestinian tribes.It was placed in warehouses belonging to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees or UNRWA which carried out its first regular aid distribution on Sunday.) International institutions ‘failed once again’ amid Gaza crisis: Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticised international institutions and organisations over Israel’s brutal war on Gaza, saying that they have “failed once again”.He labelled it as “hypocrisy” that Western countries, which provide ammunition support to Israel, have turned Gaza into the world’s largest graveyard for children and women.Erdogan said that Türkiye stands by Palestinian brothers and sisters in Gaza with all its capabilities.) Vladimir Putin wins Russian presidential elections againRussian President Vladimir Putin has cemented his grip on power in a landslide election victory. Putin said his imminent victory in the Russian presidential elections showed Russians trusted his leadership.Early Monday morning in a press conference at his campaign headquarters in Moscow, Putin expressed his gratitude to every citizen of the nation for their support and trust.) Haiti situation nears chaos of ‘Mad Max’ The UN children’s agency UNICEF has painted a grim picture of Haiti, calling the situation “horrific.” Executive Director Catherine Russell compared it to the violent, lawless world of the “Mad Max” films. Gang control of major areas in the capital, Port-au-Prince and key roads is hindering vital aid deliveries. The lack of access to food is causing widespread hunger and malnutrition, with Russell stating it’s the worst the country has seen in decades.And finally…*) Thousand evacuated as wildfire rages on China’s southern provinceA wildfire burning in Sichuan Province, China continues to spread.Nearly 3,400 people have been evacuated to safety as of Sunday.The fire ignited last Friday in a rural area and remains uncontained due to strong winds hampering firefighting efforts.According to Chinese media reports, the blaze spread to mountainsides on Saturday afternoon.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Abbas names adviser Mohammed Mustafa as Palestine's PMPalestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has appointed Mohammed Mustafa as the new prime minister following Mohammed Shtayyeh's resignation. Mustafa, a trusted economic adviser, faces the task of forming a new government amid Israel's war on Gaza. At 69 years old, he is tasked with governing the occupied West Bank, while Hamas controls Gaza. Mustafa's extensive experience in economic affairs and governance, including roles at the World Bank and advisory positions for Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, is seen to shape his approach to addressing Palestinian Authority challenges.) Twin Israeli attacks kill 29 besieged Palestinians awaiting aid in GazaAt least 29 Palestinians were killed in two separate attacks in Gaza while awaiting aid, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. In the first incident, eight Palestinians were killed in an airstrike on an aid distribution centre in Al Nuseirat camp. Later, at least 21 people were killed and over 155 wounded by Israeli gunfire at a northern Gaza roundabout.The Israeli military denied attacking aid centres, but residents reported ongoing aerial and ground bombardments, including in Rafah, where over a million displaced people are sheltering.) Chuck Schumer seeks Netanyahu's ousterUS Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for the removal of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labelling him an "obstacle" to Middle East peace. Schumer, the highest-ranking Jewish official in the US, criticised Netanyahu's alignment with far-right extremists and tolerance of civilian casualties in Gaza. He urged Israel to hold new elections amid a growing humanitarian crisis. The move reflects that the Biden administration is running out of patience with Netanyahu's government.) Azerbaijan is closer to ‘peace’ with Armenia than ever beforeAzerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has declared the nation's triumph of "historical justice" through the liberation of the Karabakh region from decades-long occupation, stressing significant progress towards peace with Armenia. Speaking at a forum in Baku, Aliyev hailed the successes of the fall 2020 Karabakh war, asserting that the region is now closer to peace than ever before.He highlighted the conflict's impact, including counter-terrorism operations and the seizure of $6 billion worth of weapons supplied to Armenia.*) New climate commitments essential for global safety, prosperity: UNUN climate chief Simon Stiell has issued a critical call for action, urging countries to produce ambitious new emissions-cutting pledges within a year. Stressing the urgency, Stiell labelled these plans as crucial for ensuring global safety and prosperity, emphasising the need to prevent surpassing the 1.5°C warming limit. In an open letter to nearly 200 nations in UN climate negotiations, Stiell highlighted the pivotal role of these pledges in safeguarding economies, national budgets and population well-being from worsening climate impacts.
) Netanyahu prolonging Gaza war to stay in powerPalestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al Maliki has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prolonging the Gaza conflict to maintain power. Al Maliki criticised Israel's use of starvation as a weapon of war, citing nearly 600,000 Palestinians on the brink of famine, and expressed disappointment with the international community's lack of action.Al Maliki emphasised the need for the international community to address the Palestinian cause, urging pressure on Netanyahu for a ceasefire.) Israel 'lost the war' in Gaza even if it invades Rafah — HezbollahHezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah declared Israel's defeat in Gaza, stating that even an invasion of the southern city of Rafah would not change the outcome. Nasrallah emphasised Israel's failure to achieve any victories or objectives after six months of fighting, asserting that the Israeli army is exhausted on all fronts.According to Nasrallah, Israel's casualties are much higher than officially reported, and the army lacks sufficient troops to sustain the conflict.Official figures show Israel has killed over 31,270 Palestinians and wounded more than 73,020.) UN to send aid to Haiti via 'airbridge' as 'Barbecue' vows to fight onUnited Nations aims to establish an "airbridge" between Haiti and the Dominican Republic to bolster aid delivery and facilitate personnel movement amid Haiti's ongoing crisis, according to the UN's Haiti mission. The initiative seeks to ensure seamless assistance and anticipates the arrival of additional crisis management personnel to address the dire situation.Efforts are underway to form a transitional governing body to replace the outgoing prime minister Ariel Henry. Meanwhile, Jimmy Cherizier, a prominent Haitian gang leader known as "Barbecue," has declared his coalition's intent to continue the fight for Haiti's liberation, despite the prime minister's resignation.) Islamophobia 'an unacceptable form of racism' — RussiaRussia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has said Islamophobia is "an unacceptable form of racism" during a news conference in Moscow. She emphasised Russia's solidarity with the stances of Muslim nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on this matter. Zakharova stressed the importance of combating discrimination and harassment against Muslims based on religious affiliation, advocating for religious freedoms that respect both the individual and collective rights of believers.Moreover, Zakharova announced Russia's support for a draft resolution proposed by Muslim countries at the UN General Assembly titled "Measures to Combat Islamophobia." This resolution is dedicated to the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed annually on March 15.And finally…*) Adidas reports first loss in over three decadesAdidas faced its first loss in over three decades due to the fallout from ending its collaboration with Kanye West, now known as Ye. The German sportswear giant terminated its contract with the US rapper in late 2022 after he sparked controversy with anti-Semitic social media posts.The end of their partnership disrupted Adidas' revenue flow and left the company burdened with a surplus of unsold Yeezy trainers.The company reported a loss of $82 million in 2023, a sharp decline from the previous year's profit of $670 million.
) Israel is using starvation as 'war arm'European Union foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell addressed the UN Security Council, condemning Israel's use of starvation as a weapon of war.He emphasised that the humanitarian crisis in the region is entirely man-made, with essential routes for aid being deliberately blocked.Borrell stressed the urgency of the situation and called on Israeli authorities to cease obstructing humanitarian access.Meanwhile, the EU is stepping up its humanitarian assistance efforts to address the escalating crisis.) Israeli leaders must answer for the babies killed in Gaza Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasised the need for an independent Palestinian state as the only means to honour the memory of slain Palestinian children.President Erdogan condemned the violence against Palestinian children, saying in quotes, "They cannot stop us from referring to the murderer as a murderer." He called on Israeli leaders to acknowledge the truth of the situation in Gaza and be held accountable for the lives lost.) Four US ships depart for mission to build temporary Gaza pierFour US Army vessels have set sail from Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia, bound for the Eastern Mediterranean to aid in humanitarian efforts in Gaza.According to Pentagon spokesman Major General Pat Ryder, the mission aims to construct a temporary port on Gaza's coast to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The temporary pier is anticipated to be operational within 60 days, with the capacity to distribute up to 2 million meals daily.) 230,000 children, new mothers in Sudan at risk of starvation deathsSudan is facing a devastating hunger crisis, with Save the Children warning nearly 230,000 children and new mothers could die without urgent action. The charity blames the war for causing widespread malnutrition, with over 2.9 million children acutely malnourished and 729,000 suffering from the most severe form. This dire situation puts Sudan among the countries with the worst nutrition in the world.And finally…*) Google limits chatbot Gemini's election commentsTech giant Google is expanding restrictions on its AI chatbot Gemini.Previously limited within the US, Gemini will no longer answer election-related questions globally due to concerns over misinformation. This decision comes as advancements in AI raise fears of "fake news" impacting elections. When asked about elections, Gemini now directs users to Google Search for information.
) Children starving in Gaza, ceasefire needed to get aid in: CIA chiefCIA Director William Burns has called for an urgent ceasefire in Gaza to facilitate humanitarian aid distribution, particularly for starving children amid Israeli attacks.Speaking at a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Burns highlighted the challenge of effective humanitarian assistance without a ceasefire. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees has reported that one in six children under two years old faces acute malnourishment in northern Gaza.) Civilians in Israel, Palestine ‘cannot be abandoned’: UN officialIn a recent mission to Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, the UN’s top official on sexual violence in conflict Pramila Patten emphasised the imperative of not abandoning civilians. Her visit aimed to gather, analyse and verify reports on sexual violence, providing a snapshot of her findings in a report to the UN Security Council.) Haiti PM Ariel Henry resigns after Jamaica summit seeks transitionHaitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry has resigned amidst a worsening civil war in the capital, driven by intensified activities of gang groups.Henry took office following the 2021 assassination of the previous president.Urgent discussions involving Caribbean leaders and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Jamaica preceded the resignation, focusing on finding a solution to Haiti’s escalating crisis. ) India moves ahead to enforce anti-Muslim citizenship law ahead of electionIndia has announced rules to implement a 2019 citizenship law that critics call anti-Muslim, weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a rare third term.The Citizenship Amendment Act grants Indian nationality to certain people such as Hindus, Christians and Buddhists who fled to India from Muslim-majority countries before 2015.Muslim groups say the law, combined with a proposed national register of citizens, can discriminate against India's 200 million Muslims. They fear the government might remove the citizenship of Muslims without documents in some border states.And finally…*) Xiaomi schedules late March start for EV deliveries — companyChina's Xiaomi will start deliveries of its first electric vehicle model SU7 this month, venturing into the world's largest auto market amid a brutal price war.The smartphone maker, China's fifth-largest, said in a post on social media it has 59 stores in 29 cities nationwide that will take orders.A launch event is scheduled for March 28 when the new EV's sticker tag is expected to be announced.
) Ramadan's first night at Al Aqsa MosqueMuslims globally observed the Tarawih prayer on the first night of Ramadan, yet celebrations are overshadowed by sadness as Israel’s brutal war on Palestinians in Gaza persists. In occupied East Jerusalem, at Al Aqsa Mosque Compound, the world's third-holiest site for Muslims, there were fewer worshipers amid access restrictions imposed by the Israeli police.Some Palestinians prayed outside in the streets of the Old City, as Israel's war on besieged Gaza has killed at least 31,045 people, mostly children and women.) Sudan army general rules out Ramadan truce unless RSF leaves civilian sitesMeanwhile, in Sudan, the government says there would be no truce in the holy month of Ramadan unless the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group leaves the homes and sites of civilians.The statement follows an appeal by the United Nations Security Council for a truce during Ramadan. For its part, the paramilitary RSF said it welcomed the ceasefire call but senior Sudanese armed forces General Yasser al Atta called for the withdrawal of RSF first.The fighting between Sudan's army and the RSF erupted in mid-April 2023 amid tensions over a plan for transition to civilian rule. ) Pakistan's Zardari sworn in for second term as presidentPakistan's newly-elected President Asif Ali Zardari has taken the oath of office, becoming the first-ever civilian to serve a second term in the country's highest office.Zardari served as president from 2008 to 2013 under his own party's government.He took the oath of office during a ceremony at the Presidency in the capital Islamabad, attended by officials such as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the three armed services chiefs.) Portugal shifts right in election amidst populist surgeAlso in election news, Portugal's main centre-right party has narrowly defeated the incumbent Socialists but fell well short of a majority in a general election. Near-complete official results have shown that the centre-right Democratic Alliance captured 29.49 percent of the vote, just ahead of the Socialists, with 28.66 percent.The result marks another advance for the populist far right in Europe, where they already govern in countries such as Italy, Hungary and Slovakia, or are steadily gaining, as in France and Germany.And finally…*) Oppenheimer dominates 96th Academy Awards, winning 7 OscarsOppenheimer has blown up the 2024 Academy Awards in Hollywood, taking home seven Oscars, including the grand prize for Best Picture.The film's star, Cillian Murphy, won Best Actor and Robert Downey Jr. claimed the award for Best Supporting Actor. Christopher Nolan won the Oscar for Best Director and the movie also took home the hardware for Best Cinematography, Best Original Score and Best Film Editing.
) Biden acknowledges 30,000+ Palestinians killed by Israel in GazaUS President Joe Biden has acknowledged that Israel's war in Gaza has inflicted a severe toll on innocent civilians, surpassing the impact of all previous conflicts. Over the last 153 days, more than 30,000 Palestinians, including thousands of women and children, lost their lives. In response, Biden announced the establishment of a temporary US military port off Gaza to enhance humanitarian aid efforts. Despite ongoing aid airdrops, reports indicate that Washington has approved 100 military sales to Tel Aviv since October 7, adding complexity to the situation.) Hamas delegation leaves Cairo but will continue ceasefire talksHamas delegation has left Cairo but will persist with Gaza ceasefire talks until an agreement with Israel is reached. This is according to a statement from the Palestinian resistance group. The delegation is set to consult with the movement's leadership. Despite ongoing efforts, senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri blames Israel for the lack of progress, accusing them of "thwarting" the four-day ceasefire deal negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt. Israel has rejected key Hamas demands, including ending the offensive, troop withdrawal, and ensuring freedom of entry for aid and the return of displaced individuals.) UK draft pushes ceasefire in conflict-torn Sudan ceasefire during RamadanBritain has presented a UN draft resolution, calling for an urgent end to hostilities in conflict-stricken Sudan, especially in Darfur, ahead of the approaching holy month of Ramadan. The draft voices grave concern over escalating violence and the worsening humanitarian crisis. As Ramadan nears, the council anticipates swift voting on the resolution, with a likely decision today.) Massive protests target Colombian president, urging Petro to resignThousands rallied across Colombian cities, expressing dissatisfaction with President Gustavo Petro's administration and the persisting violence in the country, despite his peace negotiation efforts with armed groups. The demonstrations occurred in Bogota, Cali, Medellin, and various other cities. Protesters voiced concerns not only about the ongoing violence but also criticised Petro's proposed reforms to pension and healthcare systems, aiming to reduce dependence on private funds. *) World marks International Women’s DayToday, the world observes International Women’s Day, a celebration rooted in the early 1909 US movement and officially recognised by the UN in 1977.Demonstrations are set to take place worldwide, from Tokyo to Mexico City, reflecting the ongoing global commitment to women's rights.The day serves as a collective call to action, urging societies to recognise and address the challenges women face while celebrating their achievements and contributions.
) South Africa urges ICJ for new emergency measures against IsraelSouth Africa has urged the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to implement additional provisional measures against Israel and to amend the ICJ's interim ruling in the ongoing genocide case. The ICJ acknowledged South Africa's urgent request, citing in quotes "new facts and changes in the situation in Gaza, particularly the situation of widespread starvation."According to the statement issued by the ICJ, South Africa alleges that Israel's actions in Gaza constitute breaches of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, as well as violations of the provisional measures issued by the court in January. ) China supports 'full' UN membership of Palestinian stateChina's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, has declared Beijing's support for granting full United Nations membership to the Palestinian state. He said in quotes, "The long-cherished wish of the Palestinian people to establish an independent country can no longer be evaded."Addressing the recent events in Gaza, Yi emphasised that the prolonged occupation of Palestinian territories can no longer be overlooked, pointing to the urgent need for international attention.) US authorised more than 100 weapons sales to Israel, including thousands of bombs: reportA new report has exposed that the US has discreetly approved more than 100 weapons sales to Israel since the beginning of Israel's war on Gaza in October.US officials confirmed that the sales encompassed a range of weaponry, including thousands of precision-guided munitions, small-diameter bombs, bunker busters, small arms, and other lethal aid.Notably, some transfers remained under the radar, escaping public scrutiny due to falling below specific dollar amounts that necessitate individual notifications to Congress.) Senegal's Sall dissolves govt, announces new date for presidential electionThe Senegalese President Macky Sall has dissolved the government and appointed the previous Interior Minister as the new prime minister.The presidential election, originally slated for June 2, 2024, has now been rescheduled to March 24 of the same year.The government spokesman confirmed these developments in an official statement.The decision follows the rejection by Senegal's top constitutional body of a proposal to hold the presidential vote on June 2, emphasising the necessity of conducting the elections before President Sall's mandate expires on April 2.*) First Arab woman to graduate NASA training has her sights set on MoonNora al Matrooshi, a 30-year-old Emirati woman, has etched her name in history as the first Arab woman to successfully complete NASA's demanding astronaut training program.Hailing from a mechanical engineering background and having worked in the oil industry, Al Matrooshi was selected by the United Arab Emirates Space Agency in 2021 as one of two astronaut candidates.It granted her access to NASA's comprehensive training programme, affirming her commitment to the exploration of outer space.
) Hamas shows 'flexibility' for truce amid Israeli reluctanceThe Palestinian group Hamas has declared its commitment to ongoing negotiations through intermediaries until a ceasefire agreement is reached with Israel. Despite Hamas displaying flexibility for a comprehensive halt to aggression, the group accuses Israel of avoiding the terms of the proposed agreement.Currently, negotiators from Hamas, Qatar, and Egypt are in Cairo, aiming to secure a 40-day ceasefire before the start of Ramadan next week. US pushes UN to back temporary Gaza truce to free captivesThe United States has modified a draft UN Security Council resolution, supporting an immediate six-week ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages. The revised text, proposed by the US two weeks ago, aligns with Vice President Kamala Harris's candid statements. The US emphasised that the Security Council’s backing of a ceasefire should be contingent upon the liberation of hostages in Gaza.) Actions of Israeli 'settlers' biggest obstacles to solution — ErdoganDuring a press conference with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Turkish President Recep Tayyıp Erdogan condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, labelling them "barbarity of the last century."Accusing Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of "blatant genocide," Erdogan emphasised the Western powers' unwavering support for Tel Aviv. He underlined that those responsible for the bloodshed would face accountability within the bounds of the law and public conscience.) Biden, Trump dominate Super Tuesday, cruise toward nomination and rematchIn a decisive sweep across coast-to-coast contests on Super Tuesday, US President Joe Biden of the Democratic party and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump solidified their positions for a November rematch.Both candidates secured victories in similar states, including Texas, Alabama, Colorado and Oklahoma. Additionally, Trump claimed states like Virginia and Maine, which were expected to be favourable to his major rival, Nikki Haley, due to their substantial moderate voter populations, reminiscent of her previous primary support.) Tesla's factory in Germany halts production after far-right arson attackThe Tesla factory in Germany faces a production halt after an act of “sabotage” targeted high-voltage lines, set ablaze by a far-left group, according to authorities. Emergency services responded to the burning electricity pylon near Berlin, causing damage to the lines and a power outage for the Tesla plant and neighbouring villages. The situation is still under investigation, impacting the electric vehicle manufacturer's operations.
) Israel killed 13,430 Palestinian children since October 7 — GazaIsraeli air strikes and ground invasion have killed 13,430 children since the start of Tel Aviv's carnage in the besieged Palestinian enclave, Gaza's Media Office said. It added that 8,900 women were killed over 150 days, and 7,000 people, 70 percent of whom are women and children, are still under the rubble or missing. The media office said that 364 health personnel and 132 journalists also were killed during the period.) Dismantling UNRWA would sacrifice 'generation of children'The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, is calling out threats to shut down the organisation. Philippe Lazzarini said cutting UNRWA loose would leave a generation of Palestinian children in the lurch, breeding anger and violence. He told the UN General Assembly that stopping UNRWA's work is a bad idea because it would hurt millions who depend on their help, especially at a time when things are already tough.UNRWA is facing funding freezes and pressure from Israel to close up.) Thousands flee as attack blamed on M23 rebels claims 15 lives in DRC’s eastThe M23 militia fighters have launched sweeping attacks in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, killing at least 15 people and leading thousands to flee, witnesses and government officials said.Testimony from locals, health workers and government officials on Monday pointed to attacks in the Rutshuru region of the eastern province of North Kivu.Access to the North Kivu capital Goma has been virtually severed.) US top court reverses Colorado move to disqualify Trump from state ballotThe US Supreme Court has handed Donald Trump a major victory as he campaigns to regain the presidency, barring states from disqualifying candidates for federal office under a constitutional provision involving insurrection and reversing a judicial decision that had excluded him from Colorado's ballot.The justices on Monday unanimously reversed a December 19 decision by Colorado's top court to kick Trump off the state's Republican primary ballot on Tuesday after finding that the US Constitution's 14th Amendment disqualified him from again holding public office. The Colorado court had found that Trump took part in an insurrection for inciting and supporting the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol by his supporters.*) EU hits Apple with record $2B antitrust fine in Spotify caseBrussels has fined Apple $2B for thwarting competition from music streaming rivals via restrictions on its App Store, the iPhone maker's first-ever penalty for breaching EU rules.A huge lump sum inflated a basic penalty of $43M included as a deterrent - a first for the European Union's antitrust authorities on Monday.The European Commission charged Apple last year with preventing Swedish streaming service Spotify and others from informing users of payment options outside its App Store, following a 2019 complaint by Spotify.
) US Vice President Harris calls for immediate ceasefire in GazaThe United States Vice President Kamala Harris has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and has described the situation there as “devastating.”She noted the necessity of an immediate ceasefire for at least the next six weeks, saying that it is "currently on the table."During her visit to Alabama, Harris said that the ceasefire would facilitate the release of hostages and the delivery of much-needed aid to Gaza.150 days into Israel's war on Gaza, the human cost is staggering. At least 30,410 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed, while another 71,700 were injured.) Six children among 14 killed in Israeli bombing of RafahAt least 14 Palestinians, including six children, were killed in an Israeli bombing that targeted a house in Rafah in southern Gaza on Sunday.The official Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that an Israeli air strike targeted a three-story house "resulting in the killing of dozens of civilians, including six children". According to the agency, many civilians remain trapped under the rubble.The attack inflicted extensive damage on the surrounding area.) Gaza truce talks set to resume in Cairo as heavy fighting ragesEgypt is set to host the latest talks for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, amidst Israel’s ongoing bombardment on Gaza that has spanned nearly five months.According to a senior Hamas official, the Palestinian group's delegation will engage with mediators to discuss a proposed six-week truce. It comes after a US official suggested that Israel had "more or less accepted" the terms of the ceasefire.Envoys from the United States, Qatar, and Hamas have arrived in Cairo, as all sides have been scrambling to lock in a truce before Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month that will begin on March 10 or 11.) Gang attack triggers massive prison break in HaitiGang members in Haiti's capital launched a violent assault on the main prison, resulting in the deaths of at least a dozen people. Following the gang assault on Saturday night, only approximately 100 of the National Penitentiary's estimated 3,800 inmates remained inside the facility.The government declared a state of emergency and a nighttime curfew that would be effective from Sunday, March 3, to Wednesday, March 6.*) Officials call for UN reform, global peace at Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2024The Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2024 has convened, drawing together prominent diplomats and officials to tackle pressing global issues.The Forum concluded with a consensus on the urgent need for reform within the United Nations to address the evolving challenges to global peace.Participants emphasised the significance of embracing innovative diplomatic approaches and redoubling efforts towards nuclear disarmament to foster a more peaceful world.
) Israel forces shoot over a hundred Palestinians waiting in aid queueIsraeli forces fatally shot 112 Palestinians as they surged towards aid trucks, marking one of the deadliest episodes in the nearly five-month war.The Health Ministry in Gaza reported over 750 individuals were injured during the incident.The tragedy unfolded amidst heightened concerns from aid agencies regarding Gaza's deteriorating humanitarian crisis, with famine looming, especially in the northern regions. ) Dozens of 112 Palestinians killed by Israel 'shot in head'Palestinian Ambassador to the UN Riyad Mansour accused Israel of intentionally targeting a humanitarian convoy in northern Gaza. Trucks, carrying essential supplies such as flour and sugar for needy Palestinians, regularly travelled to the region, Mansour said, where many Palestinians were waiting in line.Mansour said, based on his information, among the 112 Palestinians killed, many were shot in the head.) World reacts to Israel's carnage at Gaza aid siteIsrael's assault on an aid convoy killing 112 Palestinians and leaving 760 others wounded, drew widespread international condemnation. Türkiye labelled the attack as "another crime against humanity," joined by Iran, Qatar, and the OIC, who denounced it as a "heinous massacre." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed profound dismay, with his spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, conveying his condemnation of the tragic toll.European Union foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell echoed sentiments, branding the killings as "totally unacceptable.") US falls short of condemning Israel's attack on Gaza aid queueSeparately, the United States, the main supporter of Israel, has refrained from explicitly condemning Tel Aviv's attack on Palestinians.The White House acknowledged the severity of the incident, expressing concern and stating that they are investigating the reports of Israeli fire on Palestinians. A spokesperson from the White House National Security Council conveyed condolences for the lives lost, emphasising the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where innocent civilians are struggling to provide for their families.*) US defence chief admits Israel killed 25K Gaza women, childrenUS Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has acknowledged that Israeli forces have killed over 25,000 Palestinian women and children since October 7. Responding to a query by a lawmaker regarding potential military sales to Israel, Austin emphasised the importance of responsible use of munitions by allies. Later, a Pentagon spokesperson, clarified that the mentioned figure was an estimate from the Gaza Health Ministry, and while acknowledging thousands of casualties.
) Six children die of malnutrition as Gaza death toll nears 30,000Six children have succumbed to malnutrition in Israeli-blockaded Gaza, Palestinian officials have reported.The overall toll for Palestinians in the nearly five-month Israeli war has exceeded 30,000. Officials revealed that two children died at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City due to "dehydration and malnutrition," prompting urgent calls for international intervention. Separately, Kamal Adwan Hospital reported four infant deaths, with seven others in critical condition.) Israeli police warn curbing access to Al Aqsa Mosque in Ramadan may fuel tensionsIsraeli police have issued a warning regarding potential tensions in occupied East Jerusalem if restrictions on Palestinian entry to Al Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan are imposed.The caution comes as Benjamin Netanyahu's extremist minister Itamar Ben-Gvir advocated limiting access to Islam’s third-holiest site, proposing a ban on occupied West Bank residents and allowing only Palestinian citizens of Israel aged 70 and above.Unnamed senior police officials, as reported by Israeli media, stated that the decision is anticipated in the upcoming weekend.) Fuel shortage shuts down last functioning hospital in northern GazaThe only functioning hospital in northern Gaza has been forced to cease operations due to a critical shortage of fuel. The Gaza-based Health Ministry issued a statement, underscoring the gravity of the situation as the Kamal Adwan Hospital grapples with an inability to secure the necessary fuel to run its generators. This abrupt halt in services leaves the local population without access to essential healthcare, posing significant challenges to the well-being of the community in the affected region.) Australia spy chief drops 'traitor' bombshell on unnamed politicianAustralia's spy chief Mike Burgess has made a sensational public accusation.Burgess alleged that a former Australian politician was recruited by a foreign spy agency and "sold out" the country to a foreign power.While Burgess did not disclose the identity of the politician or the foreign power involved, citing national security concerns, his statement has sparked outrage and demands for transparency from the government.However, the Australian government has so far remained tight-lipped on the matter.*) Apple drops electric car plans while Tesla aims to ship Roadsters next yearApple has reportedly abandoned its plans to build its own car.The decision comes after nearly a decade of work on the project, codenamed "Project Titan," which involved a team of nearly 2,000 employees.Project Titan initially aimed to develop a fully autonomous vehicle, highlighting Apple's ambitions in the self-driving car space. However, the project faced challenges and setbacks, and the company ultimately decided to shift its focus to other areas. While Apple exits the scene, Tesla remains a major player, with CEO Elon Musk recently announcing plans to begin deliveries of the company's Roadster electric sports car next year.
) UN warns 576,000 people in Gaza are 'one step away' from famineA senior United Nations aid official revealed to the Security Council that approximately 576,000 people in Gaza, constituting a quarter of the population, are on the brink of famine.The World Food Programme (WFP) heightened concerns by declaring that famine is "imminent" in northern Gaza amidst Israel’s ongoing war on the besieged enclave.WFP's deputy executive director urgently addressed the UN Security Council, emphasising the critical need for intervention, while an official from the UN humanitarian office, OCHA, warned of the "almost inevitable" prospect of widespread starvation if the current conditions persist.) No UN aid convoys reached northern Gaza since Jan 23The United Nations (UN) highlighted that no humanitarian aid convoys have reached northern Gaza since January 23 as the humanitarian situation in the enclave worsens due to Israel's blockade.Spokesperson of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres revealed that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) currently has food supplies positioned at the Gaza border, capable of catering to the needs of up to 2.2 million people throughout the region.The spokesperson stated that approximately 1,000 trucks, loaded with 15,000 metric tonnes of food, are stationed in Egypt and ready for deployment.) US says Israel has not presented plan to protect civilians in case of Rafah invasionThe White House has confirmed that the United States has not received any Israeli proposal outlining plans to ensure the safety of civilians in Gaza in the event of a potential military invasion of Rafah.Speaking at a press briefing, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stated that he "can't speak for the Israelis and to what degree their planning has progressed and what that looks like.”) Ukraine intel committee warns of bid to overthrow ZelenskyyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's legitimacy may be questioned and a coup may be attempted in the spring, according to a high-ranking committee.The Intelligence Committee under the President of Ukraine said in a statement published on the Telegram channel of the Main Directorate of Intelligence under the Ukranian Ministry of Defense that Russia's "Maidan-3 special operation will reach its climax in March-May 2024.”According to the committee, in the coming weeks, there will be "attempts to foment conflicts both inside Ukraine and in other parts of the world," and Zelenskyy's legitimacy may be questioned after May 20.*) Texas wildfires force evacuations and shut down nuclear facilityWildfires spreading rapidly across the Texas Panhandle have triggered evacuations in small towns and forced the closure of a key US nuclear facility. Fueled by strong winds, dry conditions, and unseasonably warm temperatures, the blazes have become a major concern for the state.Governor Greg Abbott declared the wildfires a disaster for 60 counties, as the largest fire grew to nearly 1,040 square kilometres.The critical Pantex Plant, responsible for assembling and disassembling US nuclear weapons, also shut down its operations Tuesday night due to the proximity of the fires.
) Red Cross warns of looming famine in GazaThe head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has issued a stark warning about the dire situation in besieged Gaza. He emphasised the looming threat of severe food insecurity, with approximately 80 percent of the population facing critical food shortages.He further highlighted the plight of over a million children and elderly who are particularly vulnerable to health issues like dehydration, respiratory and skin diseases and anaemia due to the harsh conditions in shelters.) Biden says Gaza truce imminent while Israel plans Rafah invasionUS President Joe Biden said he hoped that a ceasefire in besieged Gaza could start by next Monday.When asked about the possibility, he stated that his national security adviser informed him that a deal was close but not yet finalised.) Putin vows to boost Russian special forces' ability to strikeRussian President Vladimir Putin has promised to increase the mobility and striking potential of Russia's special operations forces, saying this is a key priority to making the country's army stronger.Putin said in a congratulatory video message issued ahead of the February 27 Special Operations Forces Day in Russia that Moscow "will continue to strengthen the Special Operations Forces, increase their mobility and striking potential, and arm them with new-generation weapons and equipment."Putin then added that "this is one of the key priorities for the long-term development of the army and navy.") Hungarian parliament approves Sweden's NATO accessionHungary's parliament has approved a bill to allow Sweden to join NATO, finally clearing the way for the Nordic country to join the Western defence alliance as war rages in Ukraine.Hungary was the last among the 31 members of the alliance to ratify Sweden's membership after months of delay by the ruling party.*) Istanbul hosts 9th International Publishing MeetingsThe 9th International Istanbul Publishing Professional Meetings will be held at the Rami Library from the 5th to the 7th of March, aiming to establish Istanbul as a major copyright market.Organised by Türkiye's Press Publishing Profession Association, the event will bring together national and international publishers.Since 2021, the programme has offered participants a hybrid model for conducting business, allowing both physical and online B2B meetings.
) Israel presents Rafah invasion plan to War Cabinet amid fears of civilian casualtiesIsrael's military has proposed a plan for the invasion of Gaza's Rafah city, aligning with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assertion of the necessity of a ground invasion in Rafah for what he calls a "total victory."Concerns persist about potential civilian casualties in Rafah, where 1.4 million forcibly displaced Palestinians are concentrated.The city is also a crucial entry point for aid brought in through neighbouring Egypt as the enclave faces famine.Talks in Doha involving Egyptian, Qatari, and US representatives, along with Israeli and Hamas officials, aim to secure a truce before the upcoming Muslim holy month of Ramadan.) Jordan warns of conflict spread in region due to Israel's Gaza warJordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi has cautioned against the continuation of the Israeli onslaught on Gaza during Ramadan, stating that it poses a risk of escalating the conflict in the region.Speaking at a press conference in Amman with Bulgarian Foreign Minister Mariya Gabriel, Safadi emphasised the potential for an explosive situation if the aggression persists during the Muslim fasting month.He urged a halt to the ongoing war, expressing concerns about the increasing risks and casualties associated with the prolonged conflict.) Israeli vows continued attacks on Hezbollah despite Gaza CeasefireIsrael's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has pledged to intensify strikes against Lebanon's Hezbollah, even if a ceasefire is achieved with Hamas in Gaza.While Hezbollah indicated a willingness to cease daily attacks on Israel with a Gaza ceasefire, Gallant dismissed the idea that the temporary truce would extend to the northern front. Emphasising an independent approach, he affirmed the goal of pushing Hezbollah away from the Israeli border, either through diplomatic means or by force.) Demonstrations across Spain call for arms embargo on IsraelHundreds of thousands rally across Spain, denouncing Israel's actions in solidarity with Palestine.Protesters demand an immediate arms trade halt with Israel, led by Podemos leader Ione Belarra, who plans to present a parliamentary motion for an arms embargo, questioning the government's sincerity in its support for Palestine.*) Algeria unveils Africa's largest mosque with world's tallest minaretAlgeria unveiled Africa's largest mosque on its Mediterranean coast, overcoming political delays and cost overruns.Constructed by a Chinese firm, the Great Mosque of Algiers boasts the world's tallest minaret at 869 feet.The third-largest mosque globally and the largest outside Islam's holiest cities, it can accommodate 120,000 worshippers with modernist features honouring Algerian tradition.
) Gaza in ‘extreme peril’ as NGOs call on Israel to execute humanitarian lawThe leaders of a number of UN agencies and humanitarian organisations urged Israel to provide food and medical supplies to Gaza, warning that civilians there are in “extreme peril.”The Inter-Agency Standing Committee, the highest-level humanitarian coordination forum of the UN system, called on Israel to fulfil its legal obligation, under international humanitarian and human rights law.The health system continues to be “systematically degraded with catastrophic consequences,” it said.) Netanyahu proposes Gaza’s demilitarisation, UNRWA’s exit in post-war planIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled a written plan aimed at demilitarising and reconstruction of Gaza.Netanyahu’s so-called “Post-Hamas Plan” was unveiled to his political and security cabinet in the dead of Thursday night, as reported by Israeli media.At the heart of the proposal lies a pivotal strategy: the establishment of a civilian entity tasked with overseeing Gaza’s demilitarisation while safeguarding the Israeli army’s operational autonomy in the blockaded enclave.) Over 95 percent of Sudan’s population cannot afford a meal per day: WFPTen months into the war has sent Sudan to the “verge of collapse,” with the vast majority of its people going hungry, the UN’s World Food Programme said.Eddie Rowe, the WFP’s Sudan country director, told reporters in Brussels that “at this point, less than five percent of Sudanese can afford a square meal a day.”Since last April, Sudan has been gripped by fighting between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, which has killed thousands and created what the UN calls “the world’s largest displacement crisis.”) US to sanction over 500 targets involved in Russia’s ‘war machine’The US has planned to impose sanctions on more than 500 targets involved in Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.The action to be rolled out on Friday will hit “Russia, its enablers and its war machine,” a Treasury spokesperson said.The official added that the sanctions will be imposed by both the Treasury and State Department.And finally…*) US achieves first Moon landing in 50 years with private spacecraftA private lander has touched down on the Moon but managed just a weak signal back, as flight controllers scrambled to gain better contact with the first US spacecraft to reach the lunar surface in more than 50 years.Despite the spotty communication, Intuitive Machines, the company that built and managed the craft, confirmed that it had landed. There was no immediate word from the company on the condition — or even the exact location — of the lander.
) Israel’s war could kill nearly 86,000 more Palestinians in Gaza — studyAt least 85,750 more Palestinians could die from physical trauma and disease if Israel’s ongoing war against besieged Gaza further escalates in the next six months, according to a joint US-UK study.“The Crisis in Gaza: Scenario-Based Health Impact Projections”, a joint project from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Humanitarian Health tracks multiple scenarios, including a worst-case possibility in which the hostilities in Gaza raise the number of casualties to more than 115,000 Palestinians.) LA protesters welcome Biden with ‘genocide supporter’ chantsA group of pro-Palestine demonstrators welcomed US President Joe Biden to America’s second most populous city with chants ridiculing his hitherto unwavering support for Israel’s ongoing carnage in besieged Gaza.“Genocide supporter!” protesters yelled as Biden’s motorcade pulled up to the Culver City Julian Dixon Library in Los Angeles, where he delivered remarks touting his efforts to reduce US student debt.Protesters sought to interrupt the president as he concluded his remarks, but their words were not immediately discernible amid applause from the crowd.) NZ mosque attacker radicalised ‘earlier than thought’, new research revealsResearchers have theorised that the white supremacist who murdered 51 people in the 2019 New Zealand mosque shootings was radicalised “earlier than previously thought,” based on violent posts written years before the atrocity.Brenton Tarrant had shot and killed 51 Muslim worshippers across two Christchurch mosques in March 2019, carrying out New Zealand’s deadliest modern-day mass shooting.New Zealand researchers have been pouring through Tarrant’s posts on notorious online message boards to understand what sparked the atrocity — and if it could have been prevented.) Ukraine humanitarian appeal only 10% funded for 2024 — UN envoyThe UN’s humanitarian appeal to meet needs in Ukraine is only 10 percent funded for 2024, out of $3.1 billion needed, according to the country’s resident coordinator.Denise Brown, the UN’s top representative in Ukraine, said an estimated 8.5 million Ukrainians living in dire conditions near combat zones risk going without basic humanitarian deliveries, including food and water.*) Türkiye’s first fighter jet KAAN conducts its maiden test flightTürkiye’s first domestic fighter jet KAAN, designed and manufactured by Turkish Aerospace Industries, has successfully conducted its maiden test flight.Temel Kotil, the head of Turkish Aerospace Industries, said on X that KAAN stayed in the air for 13 minutes and reached a speed of 230 knots at an altitude of 8,000 feet during the flight.President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Türkiye has left behind another critical stage to produce its own fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
) Gaza's Nasser Hospital ‘has become a place of death’ — UNAn official from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, expressed concern over the state of the Nasser Hospital in the city of Khan Younis in the south of besieged Gaza.Jonathan Whittall, senior humanitarian affairs officer at OCHA in the occupied Palestinian territory, said: “The conditions are appalling. There are dead bodies in the corridors. Patients are in a desperate situation.”He also added that the hospital “has become a place of death, not a place of healing.”) UN official says ‘there needs to be an explanation on how the veto is used’Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said the five countries that hold the veto power at the UN Security Council “have a great amount of responsibility, and there needs to be an explanation on how the veto is used.”The spokesperson’s comments came after the Security Council failed to adopt a resolution on a humanitarian ceasefire in besieged Gaza for the third time.) Russia rejects US claims of nuclear space threatRussian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Moscow has no intention of deploying nuclear weapons in space and that his country has only developed space capabilities similar to those of the US.Putin’s statement followed the White House confirmation last week that Russia obtained a “troubling” anti-satellite weapon capability, although such a weapon is not operational yet.) Pakistan parties reach power-sharing agreement, Khan loyalists left outTwo Pakistan parties have reached a power-sharing agreement that will return Shehbaz Sharif to the premiership, leaving out politicians loyal to jailed former leader Imran Khan despite winning the most seats in this month’s vote.The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and the Pakistan Peoples Party said they had settled days of negotiations on securing a majority to form a coalition government that will also include several smaller parties.Under the deal, the PML-N and PPP will put forward former leader Sharif as prime minister and Asif Ali Zardari, the husband of assassinated former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, as president.And finally…*) Eagles’ iconic ‘Hotel California’ lyrics at centre of rare manuscript trialIn the mid-1970s, the Eagles were working on a spooky, cryptic new song.On a lined yellow pad, Don Henley, with input from band co-founder Glenn Frey, jotted thoughts about “a dark desert highway” and “a lovely place” with a luxurious surface and ominous undertones.The song, “Hotel California”, became one of rock’s most indelible singles. And nearly a half-century later, those handwritten pages of lyrics-in-the-making have become the centre of an unusual criminal trial set to open on Wednesday.
) Arab Group calls on UNSC to take action on besieged GazaThe Arab Group in New York has urged the UN Security Council to take immediate action on besieged Gaza.It said in a statement that “regrettably, the UN Security Council remains inert, unable to denounce the daily atrocities perpetrated by the occupying authorities.”The group, which is a coalition of Arab states promoting common interests at the UN, called on the Security Council to take immediate action.) Israel declares Brazil’s Lula ‘persona non grata’ as Gaza row escalatesBrazilian President Lula da Silva’s comparison of Israel’s war in besieged Gaza to the Holocaust has unleashed a diplomatic firestorm. Israel declared Lula “persona non grata” and Brazil recalled its ambassador in Tel Aviv.The row erupted the day before when Lula said the ongoing war on the blockaded enclave “isn’t a war, it’s a genocide,” and compared it to “when Hitler decided to kill the Jews.”) Ukraine faces ‘extremely difficult’ frontline battles: ZelenskyyUkrainian troops, reeling from losing a key town, now faced “extremely difficult” conditions all along the frontline with Russia because of delayed foreign aid, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.The Ukrainian military said it was critically short of ammunition and shells, worsened by the holdup of a $60 billion US aid package.After visiting frontline troops in the Kharkiv region, Zelenskyy said the situation was extremely difficult in several parts of the frontline, where “Russian troops have concentrated maximum reserves.”) Julian Assange begins last-ditch effort to block US extraditionWikiLeaks founder Julian Assange began what could be his last chance to stop his extradition from Britain to the United States. Assange has been battling the authorities in British courts for more than 13 years.US prosecutors seek to put Assange on trial on 18 counts relating to WikiLeaks’ high-profile release of vast troves of confidential US military records and diplomatic cables.And finally…*) India’s centuries-old heritage hit by Delhi ‘development’ demolitionsFor nine centuries, Indians prayed at the forest shrine of Baba Haji Rozbih, a revered Sufi master whose grave is one of the capital Delhi’s oldest Muslim sites.Then, in early February, the Delhi Development Authority reduced the site to rubble, the latest victim of a “demolition programme” it says has cleared “illegal religious structures” including a mosque, tombs, shrines and Hindu temples.The demolitions come at a sensitive time, as Hindu nationalists have been emboldened to claim ancient Muslim monuments for the country’s majority faith.
) Israel insists on attacking Gaza to ‘impose displacement’Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Israel insists on continuing its attacks on Gaza to “impose displacement,” especially on the city of Rafah.In a meeting of the Palestinian government held in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, Abbas said the Israeli government and its army are continuing their attacks on various cities in Gaza, especially Rafah, with the aim of forcibly displacing citizens. He added that the situation in Rafah has become “extremely dangerous and difficult.”) Israel to restrict Palestinian access to Al Aqsa Mosque in RamadanIsrael approved restricting the entry of Palestinians living in Israel and Jerusalem to the Al Aqsa Mosque during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, beginning in the second week of next month, local media claimed.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave his approval to the recommendations of far-right Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir. Netanyahu gave the approval despite the country’s security agency warning that restrictions on Palestinians’ access to the Al Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan could add fuel to the fire.) US strikes Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen: MilitaryUS forces in the Red Sea conducted “five self-defence strikes” to foil attacks by land and sea from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, US Central Command said.It said it struck three mobile anti-ship cruise missiles, one unmanned underwater vessel and one unmanned surface vessel.Central Command said it had determined the missiles and vessels presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant ships in the area.) Militia kills 15 in eastern DRC: local sourcesMilitia fighters killed 15 people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s troubled Ituri province, local sources said.This was the second such attack in less than a week.The sources said the CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) militia, which claims to defend the interests of the Lendu group, again targeted victims from the rival Hema tribe.And finally…*) Türkiye celebrates anniversary of joining NATO allianceThe Turkish National Defence Ministry commemorated Türkiye’s 72nd anniversary of joining NATO. The commemoration underscored the nation’s steadfast commitment to its obligations and responsibilities within the alliance.A ministry posted on X said that “as the second-largest military force within the Alliance, Türkiye proudly occupies a pivotal position at its core.”
) Israeli attacks in Gaza fuel 'catastrophic' medicine shortageThe Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza has issued a warning this week regarding a scarcity of medicines and medical supplies. They highlight the inability to provide over 60 percent of essential primary healthcare drugs. Approximately 350,000 individuals in Gaza with chronic illnesses lack access to medication, raising concerns about severe health complications.In Rafah, more than half of Gaza's population, roughly 1.4 million Palestinians, endure harsh living conditions and are exposed to disease, states the United Nations. The Health Ministry emphasises the heightened risk of respiratory, skin, and infectious diseases due to overcrowding and cold weather, particularly hepatitis A.) Prabowo leads Indonesia presidential race by a wide marginIndonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto is leading the country's presidential election by a significant margin, according to results from the election commission released on Friday. With 50 percent of the votes counted, the 72-year-old former general is poised to succeed the current popular leader, Joko Widodo.While the official outcome is anticipated in late March, early indications suggest Prabowo is set to win decisively. Currently, he holds 56.89 percent of the votes, more than double that of his closest competitor, ensuring a first-round majority, as per the election commission's website.) South Africa says Israel not complying with world court's interim rulingAs Israel prepares for a possible ground offensive in Gaza's southern city of Rafah, South Africa has accused it of disregarding previous orders from the UN's top court to prevent genocide in Palestine.South Africa's Foreign Minister, Naledi Pandor, expressed horror at the situation in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, particularly in Rafah on the Egyptian border. She stated that Israel's actions support their allegations of ongoing genocide in the occupied Palestinian territories, as presented to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).) US warns Russia to 'stay out of our elections' after Putin remarkThe US issued a stern warning to Russia, instructing them to refrain from interfering in American elections, in response to President Putin's recent comments seemingly favouring President Biden's re-election.During a press briefing, White House National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby emphasised the administration's efforts to counter Russia's negative influence globally and within Ukraine.Kirby reiterated the US's readiness to push back against Russian actions, particularly in Ukraine, and urged Putin to respect American elections.And finally…*) Nepal pursues sacred statues of Hindu deities once smuggled abroadSeveral sacred statues of Hindu deities, previously stolen and smuggled abroad, are now being repatriated to Nepal as part of a global initiative to return such artefacts to their countries of origin.Last month, the United States returned four idols and masks of Hindu gods, including a 16th-century statue of Uma-Maheswora, an incarnation of Shiva and Parvati, stolen four decades ago. Devotees in Patan, near Kathmandu, joyously welcomed the return of these artefacts, with crowded alleys witnessing offerings of money and flowers. Traditional drummers and chanters in customary attire marked the occasion with celebratory prayers.
) Israel attacks Nasser Hospital in GazaAt least one person was killed, and many others were wounded in an attack by Israeli forces on the Nasser Hospital in besieged Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis.The attack was carried out in the hospital’s orthopaedics section, according to a WAFA report.The Palestinian news agency said the hospital has been under a blockade by Israeli forces for the last 25 days.) UN seeks immediate action to end ‘dangerous escalatory cycle’ in YemenThe UN’s special envoy for Yemen has called for immediate action to end the “dangerous escalatory cycle” in the war-stricken country.Hans Grundberg, the UN envoy, said he was engaging the Yemeni parties and relevant regional actors to support de-escalation in the Red Sea “to protect the mediation space in Yemen.”The UN envoy called for all regional parties to refrain from “military opportunism” and for progress towards a mediated agreement to be protected.) Putin says he regrets not starting ‘operation’ in Ukraine soonerRussian President Vladimir Putin said the only thing he regrets is that the “special military operation” in Ukraine did not start earlier.Commenting on Western reactions to his interview with US journalist Tucker Carlson in a televised show, Putin said it was good that Western politicians watched the interview, but it was unfortunate that his words were being twisted.) MIT suspends students over protests against Israel’s attacks on GazaThe president of Massachusetts Institute of Technology has suspended a student group that held demonstrations against the Israeli military’s possible ground invasion of Gaza’s Rafah.In a video statement, Sally Kornbluth said the group, Coalition Against Apartheid or CAA, held a demonstration without going through the university’s permission process required of all groups.*) Storms batter eastern Australia, knock out power to 174,000 homesStorms packing powerful winds have toppled trees, killed one person and knocked out power from 174,000 homes and businesses in eastern Australia.The wild weather hit large swathes of Victoria on Tuesday, dumping torrents of rain and unleashing gusts of more than 150 kilometres per hour, according to the state government and emergency services.The Australian Energy Market Operator said in an update that, at its peak, 530,000 homes and businesses lost power, and about 174,000 were still cut off on Wednesday afternoon.
) South Africa requests ICJ to take action against Israel’s Rafah offensiveSouth Africa has urged the UN top court to assess Israel's plan to extend the Gaza offensive into Rafah for potential emergency measures, citing grave concerns about large-scale harm to Palestinians.In January, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to prevent a genocide and help Palestinian civilians in Gaza, in a case initiated by South Africa.The court has yet to give a final ruling on the issue, but the far-right Benjamin Netanyahu administration stresses that it will continue with the Rafah invasion.) UNRWA faces shutdown due to lack of funds in GazaThe UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees, UNRWA, has warned of an imminent closure in besieged Gaza if funding decisions aren't reversed within weeks. Director Marta Lorenzo stressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid amid hunger and disease, citing the International Court of Justice's call for immediate action. She lamented UNRWA's limited time before operations cease, emphasising the potential exacerbation of humanitarian suffering.) CIA, Mossad chiefs, Qatar PM meet Egyptians on Gaza truceUS CIA Director William Burns, Israel's Mossad Chief David Barnea and Qatari PM Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met in Cairo to discuss a Gaza truce with Egyptian officials.The quartet meeting responds to mounting international pressure against Israel's Gaza onslaught while Israeli intelligence assesses Hamas's response to a proposed deal amid its ongoing war that has claimed over 28,000 lives in Gaza.) US House leader rejects Ukraine aid bill despite Biden's pleaUS House Speaker Mike Johnson threw a wrench into vital support for Ukraine, blocking a vote on the $95 billion aid package already approved by the Senate.Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters he has no intention even of allowing a vote on the bill.The move ignores President Joe Biden's calls and raises international concerns about the US's commitment to Kiev facing Russia's aggression.And finally…*) UN: Distressing to see nations prioritising weapons over food, climateUN Chief Antonio Guterres has criticised governments prioritising arms over global issues like the climate crisis and hunger and urges UN action to address the deadly nexus threatening international peace.Climate chief Simon Stiell underscores the devastating links, emphasising the need for enhanced action.
) UNGA president warns another phase of a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza ‘is at our doorstep’The president of the UN General Assembly expressed grave concern over Israel’s assault on the city of Rafah in the southern besieged Gaza.Dennis Francis said on X that he was “deeply distressed by the escalating military operation into Rafah,” where over a million civilians were already sheltering in the most dire conditions.Francis said “another phase of this humanitarian catastrophe” was “at our doorstep” and that this was “not a path to sustainable peace.”) Egypt hits back at Israeli minister Smotrich’s ‘disgraceful’ remarksThe diplomatic tensions between Egypt and Israel escalated following controversial remarks made by Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.Egypt’s foreign ministry condemned as “disgraceful” and “irresponsible” comments by Smotrich who claimed Cairo has “considerable responsibility” for Hamas’s October 7 attack.In a statement, Egyptian foreign ministry spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid said, “Egypt fully controls its territory, and does not allow any party to involve Egypt’s name in failed attempts to justify its own shortcomings.”) Kremlin, Musk deny Russian army using StarlinkBoth the Kremlin and Elon Musk rejected Ukraine’s claims that Russian troops fighting on the frontline were using Starlink internet terminals.Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Starlink could not be “officially supplied” in Russia and thus “it cannot be officially used here in any way.”Musk also rejected Kiev’s claims, saying his “companies have probably done more to undermine Russia than anything.”) Qatar frees eight ex-Indian officers after dropping death sentencesQatar released eight Indian ex-naval officers after dropping their death sentences, India’s foreign ministry said. The men were charged with spying for Israel, according to sources, though India and Qatar did not confirm the charges. Their death sentence, handed down in October, was dropped in December.The Indian foreign ministry credited the Qatari emir for the decision more than 18 months after their arrest challenged diplomatic ties between the two countries.And finally…*) Biden joining TikTok causes stir over national security concernsUS President Joe Biden’s debut on TikTok has caused a stir — not least because the Chinese-owned social media platform is still officially considered a security risk by Washington.Republicans criticised Biden for using an app that is banned on US federal government devices over fears it harvests data for Beijing.Even the White House admitted it still had concerns about TikTok.
) More than 100 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on RafahA series of Israeli air strikes on the southern Gaza city of Rafah has killed at least 100 Palestinians, according to health officials in the besieged enclave.The strikes hit over a dozen houses and several mosques in different parts of Rafah, authorities said.TRT World correspondent Mohammad al Kassim reported that at least 40 air strikes hit several locations in Rafah and that Israeli naval and artillery shelling took part in the violent attacks on early Monday.) Trump’s remarks put allies at risk: NATOThe head of NATO has warned that Donald Trump was putting the safety of US troops and their allies at risk. The Republican presidential front-runner said Russia should be able to do “whatever the hell they want” to NATO members who don’t meet their defence spending targets.NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said “any suggestion that allies will not defend each other undermines all of our security, including that of the US.”) Death toll in Senegal protests over delayed election rises to threeThe death toll amid protests in Senegal over the postponement of the presidential election until December has climbed to three.The announcement of the delay just three weeks ahead of the planned February 25 vote triggered violent clashes between protesters and police in Dakar and several other cities.President Macky Sall said the delay is necessary because electoral disputes threatened the credibility of the poll, but some opposition lawmakers have denounced the move as an “institutional coup.”) Khan-backed independents dominate parliament in Pakistan ballot: commissionPakistan’s national election vote count concluded with independents, mostly backed by jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, winning 101 of the 264 seats, the election commission’s website showed.The final tally was released more than 60 hours after voting ended on February 8 national elections, a delay that has raised questions about the process.The independents came in ahead of the party of another former prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, which won 75 seats, making it the largest single party in parliament as Khan’s independents ran as individuals.*) Scholar fired for criticising Israel slams German academic censorshipGhassan Hage, an internationally renowned scholar, has slammed German academic institutions for suppressing criticism of Israel, after he was abruptly fired over allegations of anti-Semitic social media posts.He said: “What to me is a fair, intellectual critique of Israel, for them is antisemitism.”The scholar said he finds “Germany’s pseudo philosemitism self-serving, and at times racist, instrumentalised to racialise the Palestinian and more generally the Arab and Muslim community in Germany.”
1) UN human rights chief says destruction in Gaza is a 'grave breach' of Geneva ConventionThe UN human rights chief Volker Turk said that the destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza is a violation of the Geneva Convention and a war crime."Extensive destruction of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly, amounts to a grave breach of the Fourth Geneva Convention, and a war crime," he said.2) Pakistan awaits election result as vote count continuesPolls closed Thursday evening in Pakistan's pivotal general elections, with counting now in progress.Pakistan’s chief election commissioner said that the results of national and provincial elections are being compiled and will be announced as soon as possible.Contrary to predictions, national broadcasters reported that the PTI-backed candidates are ahead on dozens of seats nationwide.3) Kremlin says Xi and Putin accuse US of 'interfering' in Russia and China's affairs.The Kremlin said Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have accused the United States of "interfering" in their countries' affairs.According to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, Xi and Putin denounced the "US policy of interfering in the internal affairs of other states" during an hour-long telephone call.He said, "The leaders of the two countries realise that the US is practically implementing a policy of double containment, (toward) both Russia and China".4) Biden calls Israel's Gaza war 'over the top'US President Joe Biden said Israel's military response to the October 7 attacks has been "over the top."Speaking at the White House, Biden said "I'm of the view…that the conduct of the response in Gaza has been over the top." "I've been pushing really hard, really hard to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza," he added.5) Protesters utilise Picasso's Guernica to condemn Israel's brutality in GazaA group called "Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions against the State of Israel" organised a demonstration protest at Madrid's renowned Reina Sofia Museum to denounce Israel's continued attacks on Gaza.Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered at the Museum in front of the powerful Pablo Picasso's "Guernica" painting which is one of history's most evocative anti-war artworks.As visitors to the museum paused before the haunting masterpiece, they were invited to join in a moment of silence to honour those who died in the conflict.Demonstrators read a statement later published on social media saying, "Zionist Israel began systematically bombing the people of Gaza four months ago.”"Today, we stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, calling for an immediate ceasefire and urging the Spanish government to sever diplomatic ties with Israel while halting arms purchases and sales to the Zionist state."
) Saudi Arabia says no normalisation with Israel without Palestinian stateSaudi Arabia has told the US that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognised as per the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.The Saudi foreign ministry in a statement called for a halt to “aggression” in besieged Gaza.Earlier, the White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby said the Biden administration received positive feedback that Saudi Arabia and Israel were willing to continue normalisation discussions.) Yemen’s Houthis launch missiles on ships in Red SeaYemen’s Houthi group launched six missiles toward two merchant ships, reportedly causing light damage to one of the vessels, the US military said.US Central Command said in a statement that “Iranian-backed Houthi militants fired six anti-ship ballistic missiles from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen toward the Southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.”The missiles targeted Marshall Islands and Barbados flagged vessels owned and operated by Greece and the UK respectively.) Opposing Ukraine aid bill is playing into Putin’s hands: BidenPresident Joe Biden has said that Congress will be doing the Kremlin’s bidding if it fails to renew funding for Ukraine in its war with Russia.The US president blamed Donald Trump for playing politics with US national security.Biden called out Trump for pressuring Republican lawmakers not to pass a $118 billion bill that would fund Ukraine’s military in return for strict US immigration curbs, a Republican demand.) EU agrees on first law tackling violence against womenEU member countries and lawmakers have reached an agreement on the bloc’s first rules to tackle violence against women, the European Parliament and officials said.The law seeks to protect women in the 27-nation European Union from gender-based violence, forced marriages, female genital mutilation and online harassment. The text criminalises cyberstalking, cyberharassment and cyber incitement to hatred or violence across the European Union.*) Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson says will interview Putin ‘soon’Tucker Carlson, a firebrand American talk show host, has said he was in Moscow to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin.The announcement makes Carlson the first American media personality to land a formal interview with Putin since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began.Carlson, known for conservative opinions that have garnered a vast right-wing following, did not specify when the interview would be broadcast but mentioned that it would be free to watch on his personal website.
) US military says it conducted strike against two Houthi dronesThe US military says that its forces conducted a strike against two Houthi drones in Yemen.The US Central Command said in a post on X that its forces identified the explosive USVs in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. It added that the USVs presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.) Biden’s Syria, Iraq strikes driven by US electoral agenda, Russia saysRussia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out strikes in Iraq and Syria to boost his image as the presidential election campaign “is heating up” and not in retaliation for a deadly attack on US soldiers.The US began the airstrikes on Friday against dozens of targets linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and allied groups after three US soldiers were killed in Jordan in an attack that Washington blamed on Iranian-backed groups.Russia said there was no justification for the US action.) Trump urges US Republicans to reject Ukraine aid dealFormer US president Donald Trump has urged Republicans to reject a bill tying the toughest border security measures in a generation to $60 billion in Ukraine aid.Trump said they need a separate border and immigration bill.He added that “it should not be tied to foreign aid in any way, shape, or form.”) Senegalese lawmakers vote to delay election until DecemberSenegalese lawmakers have voted to delay a presidential election due to take place this month until December 15.The president of the National Assembly announced that lawmakers had passed the measure on Monday after several opposition deputies were forcibly removed from the chamber by police.Senegalese lawmakers have gotten physical as they debated the unprecedented move to delay this month’s presidential election, which also sparked clashes outside parliament and prompted international concern.*) Turkish President Erdogan vows to stand by victims of Feb. 6 earthquakeTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has promised to heal the wounds of the victims of the February 6, 2023 earthquakes that hit the southern part of the country.Erdogan said on X that “the pain of the lives lost in the Kahramanmaras-centred earthquakes that we experienced a year ago continues to burn our hearts as fresh as the first day.” Türkiye is marking the first anniversary of the powerful quakes that killed a total of 53,537 people and injured more than 107,000 others.
) Hamas in consultation with factions on ceasefire: sourceHamas has not informed mediators of its rejection of a proposal for a hostage swap deal and a ceasefire in Gaza, a well-informed Palestinian source said. The source, which requested anonymity, affirmed that the Palestinian resistance group’s consultations with other Palestinian factions on the proposals are “ongoing.” His remarks were in response to international media reports, some of which claimed that Hamas had rejected the proposals while others suggested that it intended to deliver its response on Sunday evening.) US plans additional strikes on Iranian-linked targets: White HouseThe United States will press on with its retaliation against Iran-aligned groups in Iraq and Syria, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said.Sullivan declined to say if he ruled out strikes against Iran itself.The White House national security advisor said the US intended to take additional strikes and additional action to continue to send a clear message that it will respond when its forces are attacked.) Israel demolishes ‘58 Palestinian structures’ in occupied West Bank in JanuaryThe Israeli army has demolished 58 Palestinian structures in the occupied West Bank in the month of January alone, according to a local organisation.“The demolished structures included 22 inhabited houses and 16 agricultural facilities,” the Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission said in a statement.It said most of the demolitions occurred in the cities of Hebron, Bethlehem, occupied East Jerusalem and Qalqilya.) G7 eyes Russian assets as collateral to fund UkraineThe Group of Seven and the European Union have been discussing a plan to use more than $250 billion in frozen Russian central bank assets, Bloomberg News reported. The assets will be used as collateral to help fund the reconstruction of Ukraine, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg.*) FIFA announces venue for 2026 men’s World CupThe 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup will mark the first time that the world’s biggest men’s football event will take place in three countries: Canada, Mexico and the US.FIFA allocated the opener of the 39-day tournament to Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca and the third-place match will be at Florida’s Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.The final of the 2026 World Cup will be played at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey in the US on July 19, FIFA has confirmed.
) 'Everyone in Gaza is hungry' : UN chief appeals for heightened aidUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urgently called for increased humanitarian aid into Gaza because of severe hunger, mass displacement and a crumbling humanitarian system."I call for rapid, safe, unhindered, expanded and sustained humanitarian access throughout Gaza," Guterres wrote on X."Everyone in Gaza is hungry. 1.7 million people have been displaced. The humanitarian system is collapsing," he said, highlighting the critical situation.) Hamas receives truce proposal 'positively' — QatarHamas has given "initial positive confirmation" to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages, Qatar's foreign ministry spokesman has said.US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris on Sunday where they proposed a six-week pause in the Gaza war and a hostage swap for Hamas to review."That proposal has been approved by the Israeli side and now we have an initial positive confirmation from the Hamas' side," Majed al Ansari told an audience at a Washington-based graduate school.Ansari emphasised that a challenging path lies ahead in the negotiations.) $54B aid package to Ukraine sends 'strong message to Putin' — EUEuropean Council President Charles Michel has announced that all 27 EU countries have sealed a deal on additional €50 billion or $54 billion aid to Ukraine.“We have a deal,” Michel said in a post on X.The announcement came despite staunch objections from Hungary in December and in the days leading up to Thursday's summit in Brussels.) War between rival generals in Sudan displaces 8M people: UNThe number of people uprooted by the war between rival generals in Sudan is around eight million, the United Nations has said.UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi, who was later to visit Sudan, rallied international donors to open their wallets to fight the crisis, describing the situation as "serious" on Wednesday."Since April 2023, so less than a year ago, eight million people have been displaced from their homes in Sudan," he said, adding that more than 1.5 million had fled to six neighbouring countries.*) Spain's Catalonia declares drought emergency for BarcelonaSpain's northeastern Catalonia region has declared a drought emergency for Barcelona and the surrounding area, which will now face tighter water restrictions following three years without significant rain.The head of the regional government of Catalonia, Pere Aragones, announced on Thursday that the step after reservoirs in the Mediterranean region fell below 16 percent of their capacity.That level is the benchmark set by the authorities for the application of a new round of water-saving measures that will affect some six million people.
) US says it downed Iranian drones, Houthi missile as Gaza war ragesAn American warship has shot down three Iranian drones and a ballistic missile fired by Yemen’s Houthis, the US military has claimed.The US Central Command said in a statement that Iranian-backed Houthis fired one anti-ship ballistic missile from the group-controlled areas of Yemen towards the Gulf of Aden.It added that the missile was successfully shot by a US Navy destroyer. Less than an hour later, the US Navy destroyer engaged and shot down three Iranian UAVs in its vicinity, CENTCOM further said.) Access to clean water in Gaza is ‘matter of life and death’: UN agencyThe UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, has said that in besieged Gaza, access to clean water is a matter of life and death.In a post on X, UNRWA said, “In Gaza, every day is a struggle to find bread and water. Every day is a struggle to survive.”The UN agency pointed out that without safe water, many more people will die from deprivation and disease.) ICJ rejects most of Ukraine’s terror case against RussiaThe top UN court has mostly rejected Ukraine’s claims that Russia was financing “terrorism” in eastern Ukraine, saying only that Moscow failed to investigate alleged breaches.Kiev had accused Moscow of being a “terrorist state” whose support for pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine was a harbinger of the full-fledged 2022 war.But the ICJ tossed out most of Ukraine’s pleas, ruling only that Russia was “failing to take measures to investigate facts... regarding persons who have allegedly committed an offence.”) Indian court permits Hindus to pray inside disputed Gyanvapi mosqueAn Indian court has weighed in on one of the country’s most sensitive religious disputes by permitting Hindu worshippers to pray inside a mosque in the city of Varanasi.The court in Varanasi ruled that Hindu worshippers — who claim the Gyanvapi mosque replaced a destroyed temple to the deity Shiva — could pray in the building’s basement.The Gyanvapi mosque is one of several Muslim places of worship that Hindu activists, backed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party, have sought for decades to reclaim for their religion.*) Global air travel returns to pre-Covid levelsAir travel has taken another major leap in 2023 rising to 94 percent of 2019 levels as it recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic.The International Air Transport Association said that domestic travel in key markets such as China, India and the US had led the rebound but it expected a “normal” growth rate in 2024.Based on revenue passenger kilometres, travel in the fourth quarter of 2023 alone was 98.4 percent of where it was four years earlier, IATA said.
) Netanyahu brags about killing 500 Palestinians in occupied West BankIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his military forces have killed hundreds of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank since October 7. Netanyahu vowed to continue the killing spree there.The Israeli prime minister told his army soldiers to pay attention to other fronts, especially the occupied West Bank, which he said was of “utmost importance.”) Israel orders 88,000 displaced Palestinians to evacuate Gaza City: UNIsrael has repeated new evacuation orders for neighbourhoods in western Gaza City where 88,000 Palestinians had been living in shelters, the UN humanitarian agency (OCHA) has said.The area, which included the Ash Shati Refugee camp, was home to almost 300,000 Palestinians before October 7, OCHA added.The UN agency said the new order covered an area of 12.43 sq km, which amounted to 3.4 percent of the total area of Gaza.) Report debunks Israel’s claim of tunnel beneath desecrated Gaza graveyardAn investigation into a cemetery desecrated by the Israeli military in besieged Gaza has shown no evidence of a tunnel system that Israel claimed ran under the burial site, according to US broadcaster CNN.The military claimed there was a 65-foot-deep tunnel that was one-half-mile long beneath the graveyard, but CNN was denied access to the alleged tunnel when it asked.Instead, it gave CNN a tour of the site near the cemetery, which officials said led into the tunnel system and underground command centre, but there was no evidence that the tunnel below the cemetery existed.) 100-mile bomb commissioned by Ukraine is reportedly readyAfter successful testing in the US, Ukraine will soon receive its first big batch of long-range missiles made by Boeing that promise to extend its range deep into Russian-held territory.They could arrive “on the battlefield” as soon as Wednesday, Politico reported.The glide bomb will allow Ukraine’s military to hit targets at twice the distance reachable by the rockets it now fires from the US-supplied HIMARS and could force Russia to move supplies even farther from the front lines.*) ‘Pandemic of snow’ in Anchorage, residents warned to clear roofsEven by Alaska standards, there’s a lot of snow this winter.So much snow has fallen — so far, more than 2.6 metres — that roofs on commercial buildings are collapsing around Anchorage and officials are urging residents to break out their shovels to avoid a similar fate at home.Over the weekend, there was nearly 16 more inches of snowfall, pushing Alaska’s largest city past the 100-inch mark earlier than at any other time in its history.The city is well on track to break its all-time record of 134.5 inches.
) Israel kills 20 Palestinians in new Gaza massacreIsrael has struck a family home in the Sabra neighbourhood of besieged Gaza, killing over a dozen Palestinians and wounding others, state-run WAFA news agency reported.WAFA said Israeli warplanes launched a strike on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza.Citing sources, WAFA added that the Israeli artillery also targeted the vicinity of a residential building in Khan Younis, in the south.) UN chief to meet donor nations after refugee agency accusationsUnited Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will meet with key donors to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.Guterres’ meeting comes in the wake of Israel accusing 12 members of the UN agency’s staff for their involvement in the October 7 surprise Hamas blitz.The UN secretary general’s spokesperson said Guterres’ message to donors — especially those who have suspended their contributions — will be to at least guarantee the continuity of UNRWA’s operations.) Blinken warns Ukraine gains in doubt if no US aidUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned that Ukraine’s gains over two years of fighting were all in doubt without new US funding.Tens of billions of dollars in US aid has been sent to Ukraine since the conflict began in February 2022, but Republican lawmakers have grown reluctant to keep supporting Kiev. Blinken offered an increasingly dire picture of Ukraine’s prospects without US approval of the so-called supplemental funding.) Canada drops arms export controls for TürkiyeCanada has dropped export controls to Türkiye for certain types of weapons, including drone optical technology, according to a notice posted online.The notice said that from now on Canada would review all exports on a case-by-case basis.Monday’s announcement from Ottawa came after Canada had earlier suspended drone technology sales to Türkiye — a fellow member of NATO — in 2020.*) Neuralink implants brain chip in first human: Elon MuskElon Musk, the founder of Neuralink, has said in a post on social media platform X that the first human received an implant from the brain-chip startup and is recovering well.Musk said initial results showed promising neuron spike detection.The US Food and Drug Administration had given the company clearance last year to conduct its first trial to test its implant on humans.
) Ceasefire talks between Israel, Hamas advance following Paris summitThe Israeli Broadcasting Authority reports progress in negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding an exchange of hostages.This follows the conclusion of a summit in Paris with the participation of Israel, the US, Egypt and Qatar.Talks centred on a two-month ceasefire would also release many Palestinian prisoners.However, the source noted there are still gaps in demands between the conflicting parties.) Norway and Ireland stand firm in support of UNRWA amid controversyNorway has expressed support for the UN organisation in Palestine following allegations of some staff involvement in the October 7 attacks on Israel. Norway's Representative Office to Palestine said, "Norway continues our support for the Palestinian people through UNRWA. International support for Palestine is needed now more than ever." While Norway calls the UN agency the "most important humanitarian organisation" in the besieged enclave, Ireland confirmed they have no plans to suspend funding for the organisation’s vital Gaza work.) Iran Executes Four Alleged Israeli Operatives according to state mediaIranian state media reported that Iran executed four people on Monday, stating they were connected to an Israeli intelligence operation.The defendants were accused of illegally entering Iran from the Kurdish region of northern Iraq to conduct a bombing operation for Israel's Mossad at a Ministry of Defence factory.Israel neither confirms nor denies its involvement in operations in Iran.) Türkiye Voices Concerns over UNRWA Funding SuspensionsThe Turkish Foreign Ministry says it is concerned over recent decisions by certain countries to suspend funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The ministry noted the significant risks faced by its personnel, with over 150 fatalities in Gaza, highlighting the organisation’s crucial role in supporting millions of Palestine refugees despite challenging circumstances. Türkiye said in a statement that "the suspension of funding to the organisation, following allegations against a few staff, will primarily harm the Palestinian people."It called for a collaborative resolution, urging reconsideration of funding suspensions.*) Western Nations Urge Kosovo to Reconsider Euro AdoptionFive Western nations, including the US, France, Italy, Germany, and the UK have collectively urged Kosovo to replace the Serbian dinar with the euro, starting on February 1.The embassies of the five nations issued a joint statement expressing concerns about the impact of the new cash payment regulation due to worries about potential tensions with Belgrade.
) World awaits ICJ verdict on Gaza genocide case against IsraelThe top UN court will hand down an initial decision in a case against Israel over what South Africa and many others say is a genocide in besieged Gaza, a landmark ruling closely watched in the Middle East and around the world.The International Court of Justice could order Israel to stop its war on Gaza or to facilitate humanitarian aid.The court will not, however, pass judgement on whether or not Israel is actually committing genocide in Gaza.) US, Israel seal huge arms deal as Tel Aviv rains bombs on GazaThe US and Israel have concluded a massive arms deal that includes the supply of F-35 and F-15 fighter jets to Tel Aviv, Israeli Channel 12 reported.The channel cited officials from the Israeli Defence Ministry who participated in the deal as saying an agreement has been reached between the US and Israel in which the Israeli army will be supplied with drones and thousands of rounds of ammunition in the coming days.The officials said the deal is of an exceptional size as Israeli war continues in Gaza and fighting in the north with the Lebanese Hezbollah group escalates.) Pakistan alleges Indian involvement in killing of two citizens on its soilPakistan has accused neighbouring India’s intelligence agency of involvement in the extrajudicial killings of its citizens.Islamabad said it had “credible evidence” linking two Indian agents to the assassinations of two Pakistanis in Pakistan last year.Pakistan’s foreign office said the assassination of Pakistani nationals on Pakistani soil was a violation of the country’s sovereignty and a breach of the UN Charter.) India razes Muslim shops in Mumbai after controversial temple openingAuthorities in India’s financial capital Mumbai have torn down several Muslim-owned makeshift shopfronts after religious clashes sparked by a divisive temple that was opened this week by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Minor clashes broke out Sunday in parts of Mumbai, including one incident where Hindus chanting religious slogans passed through a Muslim neighbourhood on the megacity's outskirts.No serious injuries were reported in the melee but by Tuesday, authorities had called in excavators to knock down more than a dozen shopfronts belonging to Muslims in that locality, according to local media reports.And finally…*) ‘Salt-tea’ suggestion kicks off a storm in a teacup and rocks US-UK tiesThe US Embassy in London has stepped in after an American professor made an “unthinkable” suggestion that “threatens the very foundation” of the US-UK “special relationship.”Michelle Francl, a professor of chemistry at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, authored a just-released book, “Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea,” in which she suggested that adding a pinch of salt to tea could help reduce its bitterness.Her suggestions, however, are anathema to Britain’s tea culture. It prompted the US embassy to issue a statement, ensuring the “good people of the UK that the unthinkable notion of adding salt to Britain’s national drink is not official United States policy. And never will be.”
) Israeli bombardment targets children in Gaza refugee campThe Israeli army has carried out an airstrike on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza which killed four children.The children’s bodies were found in the debris of houses, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.It added that the Israeli military continued its attacks from the air and ground on the Khan Younis region in southern Gaza.) Israel shells two hospitals in Gaza's Khan YounisThe Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza has accused the Israeli army of shelling two medical facilities of Nasser and al Amal hospitals in Khan Younis.A ministry spokesman said Israeli forces blocked roads to the two facilities and prevented ambulance dispatches there, leaving facilities “at severe risk.") Zelenskyy says Russia 'playing' with lives of Ukraine POWsUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Russia was "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners".This comes after Moscow accused Kiev of downing a military plane carrying dozens of its own captured soldiers. Ukraine did not deny the targeting of the plane.Moscow said 74 people — 65 of them Ukrainian prisoners of war — were killed when a military transport plane was shot down in the western Belgorod region.) Mali gold mine collapse kills scores of workersMore than 70 people have been killed after a tunnel collapsed at a Malian gold mining site, local sources say.Mali's Ministry of Mines in a statement on Tuesday had announced the death of several miners but did not give precise figures.Gold mining sites are regularly the scene of deadly landslides and authorities struggle to control artisanal mining of the precious metal.And finally…*) Largest NATO military exercise since Cold War kicks offThe US Navy dock landing ship Gunston Hall has left the port to mark the first movement for the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, American officials say.Some 90,000 troops from the United States and fellow NATO allied nations are due to join. More than 50 ships from aircraft carriers to destroyers, more than 80 fighter jets, helicopters and drones and at least 1,100 combat vehicles will take part.The Steadfast Defender 2024 drills will run through May.
) Israel suffers deadliest single-day loss since start of Gaza ground warTwenty-four Israeli soldiers have been killed in the biggest single-day losses since the start of its ground war in Gaza.Intense fighting has been raging in southern and central Gaza, where Israel says it has been attacking the remaining strongholds of Hamas and trying to clear areas near the border.It was in one of those border areas that 21 of the soldiers died when there was an explosion in a building and it collapsed.Israel's brutal war on Gaza — now in its 110th day — has killed at least 25,490 Palestinians and wounded 63,354, local authorities say.) EU says Israel can't 'have veto' to block creation of Palestinian stateEU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell has said that Israel cannot be allowed to unilaterally block the creation of a Palestinian state after the war.This comes after Borell chaired talks between the EU's 27 foreign ministers and top diplomats from Israel, the Palestinian Authority and key Arab states.Meanwhile, speaking at the UN Security Council meeting, the Palestinian foreign minister said Israel had denied Palestinians existence, rights and humanity.) Ukraine war hits day 700 amid spike in Russian missile strikesThe war in Ukraine has hit its 700th day amid a spike in Russian missile strikes.A wave of new Russian missiles hit Kiev and other Ukrainian cities, killing 18 people and wounding more than 100, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.Rescue workers in Kharkiv hauled survivors from smouldering piles of rubble as apartment blocks were toppled by the strikes.) Türkiye slams international failure to stop bloodshed in GazaTurkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has criticised the international community for its perceived failure to intervene and halt Israel's ongoing conflict with Palestine.Fidan said that the argument claiming the current war is primarily about ensuring Israel's security lacks credibility.He criticised the proponents of this viewpoint for neglecting to address the security concerns of Palestinians and Palestine's right to self-defence.And finally…*) Trump triumphs in New Hampshire primary, leaving Haley in shadowsDonald Trump has won the New Hampshire's Republican primary, delivering a setback to rival Nikki Haley.Tuesday was his second straight victory in his quest for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. He won Iowa's leadoff caucuses by 30 percentage points.Allies of President Joe Biden, meanwhile, are hoping their write-in campaign on the Democratic side is successful.
) Palestinians in Gaza flee Israeli attacksIsrael has pounded the southern city of Khan Younis, pushing thousands of Palestinians in Gaza to flee even further south.Families made their way on foot down the coastal highway. Others loaded blankets and belongings into vehicles or donkey carts.The UN says Israel's war has displaced some 85 percent of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, and one in four of them are starving.At least 25,295 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in Israeli attacks and 63,000 wounded.) Families of captives storm Israel's KnessetDozens of family members of captives held in Gaza have stormed a committee meeting in Israel's parliament demanding a deal to win their loved ones' release.The family members of the captives held up signs and yelled, "You won't sit here while they are dying there!"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to insist to the Israeli public that pursuing the devastating aggression in Gaza is the only way to bring the captives home.At the same time, he has rejected the United States' proposal for a postwar resolution, saying he will never allow a Palestinian sovereignty.) China 'races against time' to find survivors of devastating landslideRescuers are racing to find dozens of people still trapped after a landslide struck a remote and mountainous part of southwestern China, killing 11.The pre-dawn landslide buried 18 homes and sparked the evacuation of more than 200 people when it struck Yunnan province.Local media said rescue workers are now in a "race against time" to find those missing after a night of sub-zero temperatures.) Zelenskyy calls for unity as Russia rules out peace planRussia's foreign minister has clashed with the United States and Ukraine's supporters at a UN meeting where Moscow ruled out peace plans backed by Kiev and the West.Sergey Lavrov claimed that Ukrainian forces have been "a complete failure" on the battlefield and are "incapable" of defeating or weakening Russia.Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asked Ukrainians to remain united and committed to a common goal of thwarting Russia's assault on their country.And finally…*) More than 75,000 march across France to condemn 'racist' immigration lawProtests against France's contentious immigration law have taken place in various cities nationwide.A demonstration that kicked off in Paris saw the participation of trade unions and lawmakers from the far-left LFI or France Unbowed party.The protesters claimed the law is "racist" and targets immigrants and French citizens with dual nationality. They called for granting residence permits to everyone residing in the country.
) Death toll of Palestinians in Gaza from Israeli strikes passes 25,000The death toll of Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza has passed 25,000, Health officials in the enclave said amid heavy Israeli strikes.Gaza's Health Ministry said in a statement that 178 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours, one of the deadliest days so far of the war. A total of 25,105 Palestinians have been killed and 62,681 have been injured in Israeli strikes since October 7, the statement said. ) Ram Temple inauguration: religious ceremony or political rally for Modi?A grand temple to Hindu god Lord Ram is set to open on a site in India millions believe is his birthplace.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the inauguration with a religious spectacle in Ayodhya, months before he seeks a rare third term in elections.The construction of the temple had been a political promise of Modi’s Hindu nationalist BJP but the site has been contested for decades, with both Hindus and Muslims laying claim to it.) More than 13,000 people killed in Sudan conflict: UNMore than 13,000 people have been killed and 26,000 others injured in the ongoing conflict in Sudan since last year, the United Nations said.Fighting between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group has been ongoing since April 2023.Several ceasefire agreements brokered by Saudi and US mediators have failed to end the violence.) Dozens killed in Ukrainian strike on Donetsk — RussiaAt least 25 people have been killed and 20 others injured due to shelling in the Ukrainian city of Donetsk, which is currently under Russian control.The injuries also included two children, according to Denis Pushilin, the Russian-affiliated head of the region.He also claimed the artillery shells were fired from the settlements of Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka, which are under Ukrainian control.Ukrainian officials have not yet commented on Pushilin's claim.And finally…*) Republican DeSantis suspends his presidential campaign, backs TrumpFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis has suspended his campaign for the Republican presidential nominee, throwing his support behind frontrunner Donald Trump.DeSantis said in a video on X that he could not “ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources” without “a clear path to victory.”His withdrawal from the race comes less than two days before the New Hampshire primary.Polls showed him far behind ex-president Trump and former UN ambassador Nikki Haley.
) US says ‘no way’ to solve conflict without Palestinian stateThere is “no way” to solve Israel’s long-term security challenges in the region and the short-term challenges of rebuilding besieged Gaza without the establishment of a Palestinian state, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.The comments came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a press conference he had told Washington that he objected to any Palestinian statehood that did not guarantee Israel’s security.) Israel’s war on Gaza to hit economies across Middle East: QatarThe war in Gaza will hit economies across the Middle East if it is not resolved and the conflict urgently needs a non-military solution, Qatar’s Finance Minister Ali al Kuwari said.He also noted that the solution is really to look for a permanent solution for the main issue in the Middle East which is the Palestinian problem.Al Kuwari added this cannot be fixed by military actions.) North Korea says tested ‘underwater nuclear weapon system’North Korea has tested an “underwater nuclear weapon system” in response to joint naval exercises by Washington, Seoul and Tokyo, which involved a US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, state media said.The drills were “seriously threatening the security” of the North, so in response, Pyongyang “conducted an important test of its underwater nuclear weapon system in the East Sea of Korea,” according to the country's defence ministry.North Korea has been stepping up pressure on Seoul in recent weeks, declaring it the “principal enemy,” saying the North will never reunite with the South and vowing to enhance its military capabilities.) Pakistan strikes show Iran not ‘well-liked’ in region: BidenUS President Joe Biden has said air strikes by Pakistan and Iran on each other’s territory showed Tehran was not “well-liked,” as the White House warned against any escalation.The US president stressed that Washington was now trying to understand how the Iran-Pakistan situation would develop, adding: “Where that goes we’re working on now – I don’t know where that goes.”Tensions between Islamabad and Tehran have soared after Iran struck alleged militant targets in Pakistan and Pakistan responded in kind.And finally…*) Türkiye propels into space history with launch of country’s first astronautColonel Alper Gezeravci, a fighter pilot in the Turkish Air Force, has blasted off to space for a two-week mission in the International Space Station, putting Türkiye among the group of nations that have successfully sent astronauts into space.Colonel Gezeravci told TRT World in an exclusive interview that “it’s a very symbolic, important step. However, it’s not the last. It’s the beginning of a journey for our great country.”Gezeravci’s highly anticipated first remarks in space were an echo from the early years of the Turkish Republic, as he quoted the country’s founding father Mustafa Kemal Ataturk: “İstikbal göklerdedir (meaning, the future is in the skies)!"
) Gaza's internet outage enters sixth day, longest since war beganA telecommunications blackout in besieged Gaza has entered its sixth day. This is the longest continuous outage since Israel began its attacks on the Palestinian enclave.Palestinian telecoms provider Jawwal blamed Israel's "heavy bombardment" of the territory for a previous blackout.Humanitarian leaders have said communications blackouts impeded deliveries of aid, as Israeli attacks have killed at least 24,448 Palestinians and wounded 61,504 so far.) US fires wave of missiles on YemenThe US military has fired another wave of ship- and submarine-launch missile strikes against Houthi-run sites, US officials have said.This is the fourth time in days the US directly targeted the group in Yemen as violence ignited in the wake of Israel's war on Gaza continues to spill over in the Middle East.The strikes come after a one-way attack drone was launched from a Houthi-run area in Yemen and struck a US-owned and -operated vessel in the Gulf of Aden.) Pakistan strikes 'seven locations' of BLA terror group inside IranPakistan has launched air strikes inside Iran against terror group Balochistan Liberation Army.Pakistan foreign ministry stated that the country had employed high precision to target militants inside Iran.It comes after Iran carried out strikes against what Tehran said were "terrorist targets" in Pakistan — an attack that Islamabad blamed Iran for killing two children and wounding three girls.) UK lawmakers approve controversial bill to send refugees to RwandaUK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has won a crunch parliamentary vote on his contentious plan to send refugees and migrants to Rwanda.Right-wing Conservatives had threatened to kill the bill but they ultimately backed down, and the government won comfortably by 320 votes to 276.The bill is the British leader's answer to a UK Supreme Court ruling late last year that deporting refugees and migrants to Rwanda is illegal under international law.And finally…*) Hundreds of flights cancelled in Germany amid heavy snowfallHeavy snowfalls and freezing rain across Germany have led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights and trains.At Frankfurt airport, Germany's biggest, more than 500 flights were cancelled, while in Munich over 250 arrivals and departures were cancelled.Freezing rain across western and southern Germany also led to countless crashes on icy roads and the weather service warned of an extreme risk of black ice.
) Qatar announces humanitarian deal between Israel, HamasIsrael and Palestinian resistance group Hamas have reached an agreement that will enable humanitarian aid to be delivered to civilians in Gaza in exchange for the delivery of medicines to Israeli hostages.The agreement is a joint effort between Qatar and France, according to the Qatari Foreign Ministry. The ministry added that the humanitarian aid is scheduled to be dispatched to Egypt today before reaching Gaza.) US Senate rejects measure to force human rights report on IsraelMeanwhile, the US Senate has rejected a resolution that would have forced the State Department to examine whether Israel committed human rights violations in Palestine’s Gaza.As voting continued, 54 senators voted to set the resolution aside, thus meaning it cannot move ahead in the 100-member Senate.Israel's brutal war on Gaza — now in its 103rd day — has killed some 24,285 Palestinians and wounded 61,154, Palestinian authorities say.) Russia calls Ukraine peace meetings 'pointless'In the Ukraine conflict, Russia has said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's plan to resolve the nearly two-year war had no hope of succeeding.Putin dismissed meetings devoted to Zelenskyy's plan as "pointless and harmful".A statement on the Russian Foreign Ministry's website underlined that the meeting had exposed differences between participants and produced no increase in support for the proposals.) Sudan accuses east African bloc of violating sovereignty, suspends tiesSudan's army-aligned government has frozen ties with the East African bloc of Intergovernmental Authority on Development or IGAD.For nine months war has been raging between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, and has now spread to the remains of the ancient Kush kingdom.IGAD extended an invitation to paramilitary leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo to a summit in Uganda, which he accepted.But the move prompted the foreign ministry, loyal to army chief and Sudan's leader Abdel Fattah al Burhan, to announce it was suspending its ties with the bloc.And finally…*) OpenAI braces AI for anti-disinformation tools for 2024 electionsChatGPT maker OpenAI has said it will introduce tools to combat disinformation ahead of the dozens of elections this year.With elections due in the US, India and UK, OpenAI said it will not allow its tech to be used for political campaigns.It is working on tools that would attach reliable attribution to text generated by ChatGPT, and also give users the ability to detect if an image was created using AI.
) Israel kills 25 civilians in new Gaza carnage — PalestineIsrael has killed 25 Palestinians and wounded dozens of others during new bombardment of different areas in besieged Gaza, Palestinian news agency WAFA has reported.One such Israeli bombardment targeted a house north of Rafah, killing 11 people, most of whom were children and women, and injuring many others.In addition, Israel also killed eight people and wounded dozens during a bombing of a site near the Civil Defence headquarters in Khan Younis City.This new carnage brings the total of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes to some 24,100, while 60,834 others are wounded, according to Palestinian authorities.) Russia declares state of emergency in Ukraine attacked regionMeanwhile in the war in Ukraine, now in its 692nd day, the mayor of southern Russian city Voronezh has declared a state of emergency.Russian officials say a Ukraine-launched drone attack damaged several buildings and wounded a child.The Russian Defence Ministry said it had destroyed five drones and intercepted three others overnight over the region, which borders Ukraine.) North Korea abolishes agencies seeking unification with SouthNorth Korea has formally abolished a handful of government agencies charged with promoting cooperation and unification with the South, according to state media.This comes just weeks after the nation's leader Kim Jong-un said that continuing to seek reconciliation with South Korea was a "mistake".He called for a constitutional amendment to change the status of South Korea to a separate state and said unification with the South is no longer possible.) Iran says it bombed 'Mossad' and 'terrorist' sites in Iraq and SyriaIran's Revolutionary Guard has launched missile attacks as Tehran described them as the espionage headquarters of Israel's Mossad and terrorist groups in Iraq and neighbouring Syria, state media has reported.The headquarters have been the centre for developing espionage operations and planning terrorist actions in the region, according Iranian media.At least four civilians were killed and six wounded in the strikes on Erbil, the Kurdish Regional Government in northern Iraq said in a statement, describing the attack as a "crime."And finally…*) Trump wins Republican race in frigid IowaDonald Trump romped to a lightning-quick victory in Iowa's caucuses as the presumptive Republican standard-bearer to challenge President Joe Biden in November's election.Biden acknowledged that Donald Trump was the "clear frontrunner" to be the Republican candidate in the US election.Meanwhile, Vivek Ramaswamy, a multi-millionaire former biotech executive, ended his White House bid and endorsed Trump.
) Israel kills almost 24,000 Palestinians as war hits 100-day markIsraeli attacks on Gaza have continued for over a 100 days since October 7th.During which, a total of 23,968 Palestinians have been killed and 60,582 injured by Israeli strikes, the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza said.And the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor estimates at least 100,000 Palestinians have been killed, wounded or reported missing in the past 100 days.) More Palestinians killed by Israeli army fire in occupied West BankMeanwhile in the occupied West Bank, four more Palestinians have been killed by Israeli army fire, including a 14-year-old boy.A statement by the Palestinian Health Ministry said the boy lost his life after Israeli forces opened fire in a refugee camp northwest of Jericho city.According to the state news agency Wafa, the boy was shot in the chest by Israeli forces. He was then transferred to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.The ministry said another two Palestinians were killed near a town east of Al Halil, without providing any details.) US downs missile fired from Yemen at American warship: militaryA US fighter aircraft has shot down an anti-ship cruise missile fired at a US Navy destroyer from a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen.United States Central Command says there were no injuries or damage reported in the incident that took place in the southern Red Sea. Houthi media reported US and British strikes hit the port city of Hudaida, but a US defence official refuted the allegation. It marks the third consecutive day of reported strikes against the group over its attacks on Red Sea shipping.) 83 countries hold Ukraine peace talks in DavosMeanwhile in the war in Ukraine, national security advisers from 83 countries have held talks seeking common ground on Ukraine's peace formula.The fourth round of discussions was based on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's 10-point proposals for peace in Ukraine, nearly two years on from Russia's full-scale offensive.Brazil, India and South Africa participated in the talks – countries that sit alongside Russia in the BRICS group.And finally…*) IMF: Artificial intelligence to impact 60 percent of advanced economy jobsArtificial intelligence will impact 60 percent of jobs in advanced economies, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has said.A new International Monetary Fund report notes that half of the jobs impacted by AI will be negatively affected, while the rest may actually benefit from enhanced productivity gains.But this number decreases to 40 percent for emerging markets and 26 percent for low-income countries, the IMF report says.
) Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, S Africa says at ICJSouth Africa has told judges at the International Court of Justice that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and pleaded with the court to urgently order Israel to halt its war on Gaza.South African lawyers said the latest Gaza war is part of a decades-long oppression of the Palestinians by Israel.Genocides are “never declared in advance,” but ICJ has 13 weeks of evidence showing a “pattern of conduct that justifies the plausible claim of genocidal acts,” a top lawyer for South Africa told the UN’s top court.) ICJ genocide hearings offer hope for Palestinians: Amnesty InternationalAmnesty International has said that ongoing proceedings at the ICJ related to South Africa’s genocide case against Israel have the potential to safeguard Palestinian civilians.The rights watchdog said the case could lead to bringing an “end to the man-made humanitarian catastrophe” in besieged Gaza, and provide a glimmer of hope for international justice.As the US continues to use its veto power to block the UN Security Council from calling for a ceasefire, war crimes and crimes against humanity are rife, and the risk of genocide is real, Amnesty International further said.) Israel to counter genocide accusations at World CourtIsrael will respond to strong accusations brought by South Africa at the UN’s top court that its brutal war in besieged Gaza is a state-led genocide campaign aimed at wiping out the Palestinian population.Israel has rejected the accusations of genocide as baseless and said South Africa was acting as a mouthpiece for Hamas resistance group.The 1948 Genocide Convention, enacted in the wake of the mass murder of Jews in the Nazi Holocaust, defines genocide as “acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.”) Russia warns of risk of nuclear response if Ukraine hits missile launch sitesA senior ally of President Vladimir Putin warned that any Ukrainian attacks on missile launch sites inside Russia with arms supplied by the US and its allies would risk a nuclear response from Moscow.Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, said that some Ukrainian military commanders were considering hitting missile launch sites inside Russia with Western-supplied long-range missiles.He did not name the commanders or disclose more details of the alleged plan and there was no immediate reaction from Ukraine to his threat.*) US and UK strike Yemen’s Houthis; rebels say counterstrikes under wayThe US and British militaries have bombed more than a dozen sites used by the Houthi positions in Yemen, in a massive strike using warship-launched Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets, US officials have said.The military targets included logistical hubs, air defence systems and weapons storage locations, they said early on Friday. Houthi officials said they targeted American and British warships in the Red Sea in reaction to the strikes.
) All eyes on ICJ as South Africa’s Gaza genocide case against Israel beginsA legal battle over whether Israel’s war in Gaza amounts to genocide is set to open at the UN’s top court with preliminary hearings into South Africa’s call for judges to order an immediate suspension of Israel’s military invasion.Israel denies the genocide charge even as it has killed more than 23,000 Palestinians, mostly kids and women, wounded nearly 60,000, uprooted 85 percent of Gaza’s 2.3 million population and flattened some 60 percent of the enclave’s infrastructure.The case that will begin on Thursday, and is likely to take years to resolve, strikes at the heart of Israel’s national identity as a state created by the Zionists in the aftermath of the Nazi genocide in the Holocaust.) WHO cancels sixth aid mission to Gaza in two weeks over security concernsThe World Health Organization has cancelled another planned medical aid mission to Gaza over security concerns. This was the sixth cancellation by the UN agency in just two weeks, as it sounded a fresh alarm over the spread of infectious diseases in the besieged Palestinian enclave.WHO said intense Israeli bombardment, restrictions on movement, fuel shortage and interrupted communications make it impossible for WHO and its partners to reach those in need.) Netanyahu diverges from his key ministers on Gaza reoccupationIsraeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel has no plans to reoccupy Gaza or expel its Palestinian population.Netanyahu’s statement stood in contrast to extremist members of his far-right government who have repeatedly called for an ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in Gaza.Netanyahu went further to claim that the Israeli military is doing its utmost “to minimise civilian casualties,” despite the Israeli army killing more than 23,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and wounding nearly 60,000 others.) Looting, arson in Papua New Guinea cities leave 15 people deadAt least 15 people were killed in widespread looting and arson across Papua New Guinea’s two largest cities, the country’s police commissioner said.A police and public sector protest on Wednesday over a pay cut that officials blamed on an administrative glitch descended into lawlessness over the day. TV footage showed thousands in the streets of Port Moresby, many carrying what appeared to be looted merchandise as black smoke billowed over the city.*) Musk’s X sheds over 1,000 staff from teams combating online hate — watchdogElon Musk’s X has shed more than 1,000 staff globally from teams responsible for stopping abusive content online, according to new figures by Australia’s online watchdog.Australia’s eSafety Commission said these “deep cuts” and the reinstatement of thousands of banned accounts has created a “perfect storm” for the spread of harmful content.The regulator has in recent months zeroed in on X — formerly known as Twitter — previously saying Musk’s takeover coincided with a spike in “toxicity and hate” on the platform.
) Israel tells hospitals to prepare for 'thousands' of injuredIsrael has ordered hospitals in the north of the country to prepare for the possibility of receiving "thousands of injured" people as tensions with Hezbollah increase.Israel's Health Ministry has asked medical centres to prepare for the possibility of going into "deserted island mode," that is being left without medical supplies, medicine and food for days.The ministry also asked hospitals to go into emergency mode within a few hours and requested that they maintain a 50 percent occupancy rate.) Egypt refuses to let Israel monitor buffer zone with GazaEgypt has rejected a proposal by Israel for greater Israeli oversight over the buffer zone on the Egypt-Gaza border.Egypt said it is prioritising efforts to broker a ceasefire before working on post-war arrangements.Egyptian sources said that during those talks Israel had approached Egypt about securing the Philadelphi Corridor, a narrow buffer zone along the border, as part of Israeli plans to prevent future attacks.) Dozens of rabbis protest at UN to demand Israel end its war on GazaAbout three dozen rabbis and rabbinical students from US organisations have protested inside the UN Security Council chamber and later in front of the main UN building.They urged a ceasefire in Gaza and asked US President Joe Biden's administration to allow such resolutions to pass instead of vetoing them in the Security Council.The protests were organised by US Jewish groups, including Jewish Voice for Peace, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, and Rabbis for Ceasefire.) West slams Russia's use of North Korean missiles against UkraineNearly 50 countries joined the US in condemning North Korea's alleged transfer of missiles to Russia, demanding an immediate end to the cooperation.In a joint statement, they said the alleged missile shipment "flagrantly" violated sanctions on North Korea by the UN Security Council, of which Russia is a permanent member."The transfer of these weapons increases the suffering of the Ukrainian people, supports Russia's war of aggression, and undermines the global non-proliferation regime," said the statement.*) Secret tunnel discovered under synagogue in New YorkMore than 10 Hasidic Jewish worshippers were arrested after clashes broke out at a historic Brooklyn synagogue in New York.The discovery of the tunnel at the Chabad-Lubavitch world headquarters in Crown Heights prompted an emergency structural inspection from the city. Motti Seligson, the spokesperson for Chabad Lubavitch, said that some time ago, "a group of extremist students" broke through a few walls in adjacent properties to the synagogue to provide them with "unauthorised access."
) Blinken in Tel Aviv as Gaza sees another night of Israeli terrorUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has touched down in Tel Aviv amidst escalating tensions in the region.It comes as Israel intensifies its attacks on Gaza and Lebanon, sparking global concerns about the potential expansion of the conflict beyond Palestine.Despite expressing concern over the civilian casualties resulting from Israel's military actions, Washington, a key ally and arms supplier to Israel, has not called for a ceasefire in Gaza since October 7.The ongoing Israeli campaign in Gaza has left over 23,000 Palestinians dead, nearly 59,000 wounded and has devastated 60 percent of the enclave's homes and businesses.) Israel's top court blocks foreign media from independently entering GazaIsrael's Supreme Court denied international media organisations' request for independent access to report from besieged Gaza.The Foreign Press Association, representing many media outlets in Israel and Palestine, urged Israeli authorities last month to allow journalists into the conflict-ridden enclave.The court, recognizing press freedom but citing wartime conditions, justified maintaining restrictions. It argued that journalists inside Gaza could jeopardise Israeli soldiers by revealing troop positions.This decision heightens concerns about media challenges in covering Gaza, underscoring ongoing complexities in accessing information in conflict zones.) Gangs kill 17 across three villages in NigeriaArmed gang members have killed at least 17 people in attacks in northwestern Nigeria's Kaduna state.The gang members carried out attacks on three villages in Kauru district, according to reports.At least 17 people lost their lives and 58 people were kidnapped.Nigeria is confronting attacks from armed gangs and terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP, the West African branch of Daesh, in various parts of the country.) Brazil’s Lula vows 'no pardon' for January 8 riotersPresident Lula da Silva has pledged no pardon for the supporters of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro involved in last year's riots, as Brazil observed the anniversary of the attacks.Speaking at the main entry hall of Congress in Brasilia, one of the buildings targeted by far-right rioters, Lula emphasised the need to safeguard Brazil's democracy.The rioters vandalised the premises and called for military intervention to remove Lula.*) Boeing shares dive as regulators unveil inspection plan for grounded MAX jetsBoeing shares tumbled on Monday following a mid-flight aeroplane panel failure, casting doubt on the company's efforts to restore its reputation.Over six percent decline in Boeing stock affected the Dow index, coinciding with US aviation authorities issuing inspection protocols for planes with configurations similar to the 737 MAX 9 involved in Friday's incident.Alaska Flight 1282, departing from Portland International Airport on Friday, experienced a pressurisation issue while gaining altitude, prompting concerns about the safety of Boeing's aircraft.
) Israeli attacks on Palestine’s Gaza to continue throughout 2024Israel’s military chief has said that the war in Gaza will likely continue throughout the year.Israel’s Army Chief of General Staff spoke about his country’s attacks on Gaza during a visit to the occupied West Bank, according to a statement from the Israeli army.He said 2024 will be "tough” and that they will “fight in Gaza all year, for sure.”) 6,000 critically injured Palestinians in Gaza need 'urgent treatment' abroad The government in Gaza has announced that 6,000 critically injured people urgently need to be transported out of the enclave for treatment.In a statement, the media office in Gaza shared details about the "catastrophic situation" that the health sector is in due to Israeli attacks since October 7th.It said 30 hospitals in the area are out of service as more than 58,000 people have been injured due to the attacks.) Qatar's emir meets US' Blinken, calls for immediate ceasefire in GazaMeanwhile, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Abu Dhabi for the latest leg of his Middle East tour. It comes as fears grow that Israel's war in Gaza may spill into the wider region, after one of Hamas’s senior leaders was killed in a bomb attack in Beirut last week. Blinken held talks with both Jordanian and Qatari representatives in Amman and Doha. For his part, Qatar’s emir called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the blockaded territory.) Bangladesh’s Hasina secures fifth term amid opposition boycottBangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has won re-election for a fifth term, an Election Commission spokesman said in the early hours of Monday morning.The polls were boycotted by the country’s major opposition party and initial reports suggested the exercise had a meagre turnout of some 40 percent.Hasina has presided over breakneck economic growth in a country once beset by grinding poverty, but her government has been accused of rampant human rights abuses and a ruthless opposition crackdown.*) Hollywood stars attend 81st awards ceremonyThe 81st Golden Globe Awards has taken place in Los Angeles. It's been a huge year for cinema which saw Barbie and Oppenheimer dominate the box office.Oppenheimer also dominated the awards, winning best drama, best actor, as well as best director awards. Comedy film Poor Things also received two awards, including one for American actress Emma Stone.
) S Korea: DPRK fired artillery shells near its islands, evacuation ordered North Korea fired more than 200 artillery shells near two South Korean islands, Seoul's defence ministry has said, with an evacuation order issued for residents.Yeonpyeong local officials said civilians had been asked to evacuate, describing the order as a "preventative measure."Relations between the two Koreas are at one of their lowest points in decades, after Kim enshrined the country's status as a nuclear power into the constitution while test-firing several advanced ICBMs.) Database exposes 500 instances of Israeli incitement to genocide in GazaA non-profit human rights organisation Law for Palestine has revealed shocking evidence of over 500 instances of Israeli officials advocating for genocide against Palestinians in besieged Gaza.These reprehensible incitements have been categorised into significant thematic areas, including genocidal intent, forced displacement, and collective punishment.Some of those calls for genocide and ethnic cleansing against Palestinians came from Israeli decision-makers, including President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other extremist ministers in the far-right government.) Iran vows revenge after deadly twin blasts in Kerman regionIran's elite Revolutionary Guards and First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber vowed revenge for explosions that killed nearly 84 people at a ceremony to commemorate top commander Qassem Soleimani, who was killed by a US drone in 2020 in Iraq.Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the "heinous and inhumane crime", and Iran's top authority, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, also vowed revenge for the twin bombings.) Israel is starving Gaza and ‘nothing is being done to stop it’Those who have survived the bombings, repeated displacement and disease outbreaks in Gaza must now contend with another impending disaster of famine.Last month, a United Nations-backed body warned that famine could become a reality in Gaza, if food crisis levels of hunger continued. "Increased nutritional vulnerability of children, pregnant and breastfeeding women and the elderly is a particular source of concern," the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) initiative report added.*) Biden's first 2024 ad warns of 'extremist' threat to democracyPresident Joe Biden's campaign has released its first television ad for the 2024 election, warning of an "extremist" threat to democracy over images of the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol."There's something dangerous happening in America.There's an extremist movement that does not share the basic beliefs in our democracy," says the ad, released early on social media.
) Israel dropped 65,000 tonnes of bombs in 'genocidal war' on GazaThe Israeli army bombarded Gaza with more than 45,000 missiles and bombs that weighed more than 65,000 tonnes, the Gaza Media Office has said.The office said about two-thirds of the bombs and missiles were unguided and imprecise, commonly known as dumb bombs.It pointed out that the use of such bombs indicates “the deliberate targeting of indiscriminate and unjustified killing by the occupation.”) US imam shot outside New Jersey mosque dies, shooter at largeAn imam shot outside a Newark mosque in New Jersey state has succumbed to gunshot wounds, American authorities have said.New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin said the loss of Imam Hassan Sharif will be felt across the state and city, adding there’s no evidence indicating the shooting was motivated by an anti-Muslim bias.The Muslim cleric was in his vehicle when he was shot more than once near the mosque, Essex County Prosecutor Ted Stephens said at a news conference.) Ukraine calls US weapons to Kiev ‘investment’ in NATO protectionUkraine is considering no alternative to securing stalled US military assistance for its war against Russia.Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Kiev is confident the US Congress will give its approval to release the aid.Kuleba said that if Russia prevailed in the conflict, which is now more than 22 months old, “other leaders will be tempted to follow in Russia’s footprints.”) More than 100 dead in blasts near grave of slain Iran generalAt least 103 people have been killed in Iran as two bombs in quick succession struck a crowd commemorating slain general Qasem Soleimani on the anniversary of his killing, state media reported.Wednesday’s blasts, which state television called a “terrorist attack,” came a day after a senior Hamas leader was assassinated in an Israeli drone attack in Beirut.Long seen as a deadly adversary by the US and its allies, Soleimani was one of the most important power brokers across the region, setting Iran’s political and military agenda in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.*) Over a dozen campaign staffers warn Biden could lose votes in re-election bidAbout seventeen of Biden’s re-election campaign staffers have issued a warning in an anonymous letter that Biden could lose voters over his handling of Israel’s war on Gaza.They urged the US president to call for a ceasefire.The staffers said the “Biden for President” campaign has seen volunteers quit in droves, and people who have voted blue for decades feel uncertain about doing so for the first time ever, because of this conflict.
) Hamas says it 'will never be defeated' after Israel kills ArouriHamas chief Ismail Haniya has said his Palestinian resistance group "will never be defeated" after the assassination of its deputy leader Saleh al Arouri in Lebanon by Israel."A movement whose leaders and founders fall as martyrs for the dignity of our people and our nation will never be defeated," Haniya said in a televised address.He also said that the assassination of al Arouri is a "terrorist act," a violation of Lebanon's sovereignty and an expansion of Israel's hostility against Palestinians.) Russia hit Ukraine with '300 missiles, 200 drones' in 72 hoursUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Russia used 300 missiles and 200 drones in attacks over three days.He said, “this is absolutely conscious terror. In just a few days Russia has already used almost 300 missiles and more than 200 drones against Ukraine.”Zelenskyy also warned that if Ukraine fails, "Russian terror" will further spread throughout Europe.) Sudan's RSF open to talks on immediate ceasefire with army: officialSudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has said it was open to an immediate, unconditional ceasefire through talks with the Sudanese army.It signed a declaration with the Taqadum civilian coalition and invited the army to do the same.It also included commitments to return millions of displaced people to their homes, create safe passages and include civilians in peace talks.) Türkiye detains 33 people suspected of spying for Israel's MossadTurkish authorities have detained 33 people on suspicion of engaging in espionage activities on behalf of Israel's foreign intelligence service Mossad, according to security sources.The arrests followed an investigation by the Istanbul Prosecutor Office's Terrorism and Organised Crimes Investigation Bureau, focusing on international espionage.The suspects are alleged to have been involved in activities such as reconnaissance, surveillance, assault and abduction on behalf of Mossad.*) Saudi Arabia formally joins BRICS bloc amid geo-political tensionsSaudi state TV has said that the kingdom had officially joined the BRICS bloc of countries.Saudi Arabia's foreign minister had said in August the kingdom would study the details before the proposed January 1 joining date and take "the appropriate decision".The BRICS bloc is set to double with Saudi Arabia joining the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Iran, and Ethiopia as new members.Saudi Arabia's entry comes amid geo-political tensions between the US and China, and the expansion of China's influence within the kingdom.
) Hamas urges ICRC action as Palestine says Israel killed prisonerPalestinian resistance group Hamas has called on the International Committee of the Red Cross to document human rights violations against Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.According to the latest figures, more than 7,800 Palestinians are being held in Israeli prisons, including 80 women.Earlier, Palestinian prisoner affairs groups accused Israel of assassinating an incarcerated Palestinian man in an Israeli jail.This comes on the 88th day of Israel's attacks on besieged Gaza, which has killed at least 21,978 Palestinians and wounded 56,697 others.) Hit by 155 quakes, Japan 'racing against time' to rescue victimsJapan is racing against time to save people after a series of powerful earthquakes hit western regions, leaving at least 30 people dead.The Japan Meteorological Office said the country was hit with 155 earthquakes on Monday.Out of these, the largest had a magnitude of 7.5 and struck Ishikawa prefecture, according to the US Geological Survey. The scale of the damage is still emerging, with news footage showing toppled buildings, charred homes and locals without power in freezing overnight temperatures.) Explosions in Kiev as Ukraine battles 'Russian drone attack'Explosions have been heard in Ukraine's capital as the country’s air force battled a Russian drone attack, officials say.The mayor of Kiev reported explosions about an hour after the region's military administration said unmanned aerial vehicles or drones had been detected in the city's airspace.There were also air alerts in the regions of Chernigiv, Cherkasy, Mykolayiv and Kherson.) South Korea opposition chief 'stabbed in neck' during Busan visitSouth Korea's opposition party leader Lee Jae-myung has been attacked during a visit to the southern port city of Busan.Lee was stabbed in the neck with a weapon by an unidentified man while touring the site of a proposed airport, local media said. The assailant was subdued and arrested at the scene. Meanwhile, Lee had been transported to a hospital. He is reportedly conscious but his exact condition is unknown.*) Thousands march in Istanbul, chanting 'killer Israel, get out of Palestine'Hundreds of thousands of people have gathered on Istanbul's iconic Galata Bridge to call for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.The event involved the participation of 308 non-governmental organisations in Türkiye.The demonstrators carried signs and chanted slogans in support of Palestinians under Israeli attacks in besieged Gaza.They also condemned a recent PKK terror attack that martyred 12 Turkish soldiers in northern Iraq.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, January 1st.) Israel to release some reservists as assault on Gaza grinds onTel Aviv continues bombardment of cities, towns and refugee camps across besieged Gaza.The Israeli military said it will release some reservists who were called up to fight in Gaza, as the country prepares for a prolonged aggression on the tiny enclave.Now in its 87th day, Israel’s attacks have killed at least 21,822 Palestinians and wounded 56,451.) Israel rings under barrage of rockets from GazaSeveral rockets fired from Gaza have targeted Tel Aviv and southern Israel as the country rang in the New Year, according to journalists on the ground.Air-raid sirens sounded as Israeli missile defence systems intercept the rockets.People who had gathered on the streets to celebrate New Year’s Eve took shelter, while others continued to party.) Five killed in attacks on Donetsk, Odessa: local authoritiesMeanwhile in Ukraine, five people were killed in attacks on the southern Odessa region and the eastern city of Donetsk, local authorities said.The Russian-affiliated head of Donetsk described the attack as “massive shelling from multiple launch rocket systems”.In Odessa, the local governor said one person died in a Russian drone attack and three others were wounded.) Houthi rebels say US forces attacked three of their boats, killing 10Houthi rebels have tried to board a Singapore-flagged cargo ship and attacked US Navy helicopters in the southern Red Sea. The Iranian-backed group have since renewed their calls for all countries to not participate in the US-led coalition against the group.They say American forces in the Red Sea are there to protect Israeli ships; but nothing will prevent them from supporting the Palestinian people in Gaza.And finally…*) Hundreds of protesters across world demand ceasefire in Gaza on NYEHundreds of people in Jordan took to the streets, not to celebrate the New Year, but to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. The demonstrators highlighted the urgent need for peace in the region, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the Middle East as the world enters 2024.A similar feeling echoed in Istanbul, Beirut and New York where thousands gathered to call for an immediate Gaza ceasefire. And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Hamas says ending Israeli aggression on Gaza is priorityThe Palestinian resistance group Hamas' military wing has said that ending Israel's aggression on besieged Gaza is a priority, reiterating their rejection of any hostage exchange deal or negotiations without this condition being met.This was stated in a recorded speech by Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson for the Qassam Brigades, which was broadcast on Al Jazeera satellite channel.Forty-five Palestinians have been killed in attacks on several parts of the enclave early Friday and over 21,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s air and ground attacks on Gaza since October 7. ) Number of children killed in West Bank has reached unprecedented levels: UNThe United Nations Children’s Fund has said that the number of children killed in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem has reached unprecedented levels.UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Adele Khodr noted that Israeli forces have killed 83 children in the past twelve weeks alone – more than double the number of children killed in all of 2022.Khodr added that the suffering of children in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, is part of the war on Gaza and must not fade into the background. ) Russia launches strikes across Ukrainian citiesRussia has launched a wave of missile strikes across Ukrainian cities, including the capital, authorities said as they raised a nationwide air alert.The overnight attacks came days after Ukraine struck a Russian warship in the occupied Crimean port of Feodosia.Explosions were reported in Kiev and missiles struck at least five other Ukrainian cities, including Kharkiv in the northeast, Lviv in the country's west as well as Odessa in the south, the cities' mayors and police said.) Iraq working to end US-led coalition’s presence in the country: PremierIraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani has said that the government is working towards ending the US-led coalition against the presence of Daesh in the country.Following a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who was on a formal visit to Iraq, al Sudani said at a joint press conference that the leaders are working to conclude the US-led mission. Al Sudani added that the Iraqi government is in the process of “rearranging the relationship” between security advisers and forces under capable Iraqi forces.*) SpaceX launches secretive US military spacecraft on research missionSpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket blasted back into space on Thursday night to ferry the US military's secretive X-37B drone to a research mission.After weeks of delays, the rocket launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.The Pentagon has released little information about the space drone and its mission, only saying that the mission would entail "multiple cutting-edge experiments".
) Russia calls for end to historic injustices endured by PalestineRussia has said the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East is a result of the longstanding failures of US foreign policy and called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called for de-escalation of the Middle East conflict, denouncing as "unacceptable" both acts of terror and "collective punishment".) US proposes G7 explore ways to seize $300B in Russian assetsThe Financial Times has reported that the United States proposed that working groups from G7 countries explore ways to seize 300 billion dollars in frozen Russian assets. The US, backed by the UK, Japan and Canada, proposed moving forward with preparatory work so that options would be ready for G7 leaders to consider at a potential meeting around February 24. ) High-level talks between US and Mexico in effort to end migrant crisisA US delegation has met with Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to discuss the unprecedented flow of irregular migration on the border between their two countries and to identify ways to address challenges to border security.Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alicia Barcena welcomed the US top officials ahead of their meeting with Lopez-Obrador and the Mexican Security Cabinet.Barcena noted the US government did not request changes in the country's current immigration policy or strengthening security measures.) Gas tanker blast in Liberia kills dozens, many injuredAt least 40 people have died following the explosion of a gas tanker in north-central Liberia, the West African country's chief medical officer, Francis Kateh has said.The fuel truck crashed late on Tuesday in Totota, Lower Bong County, and soon after exploded, killing and injuring many who had flocked to the scene.Dozens of people are still in hospital with serious burns, and the death toll could rise.*) New York Times sues OpenAI, Microsoft over chatbot trainingThe New York Times struck back against the threat that artificial intelligence poses to the news industry, filing a federal lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft seeking to end the practice of using its stories to train chatbots.The Times says the companies are threatening its livelihood by effectively stealing billions of dollars worth of work by its journalists, in some cases spitting out Times' material verbatim to people who seek answers from generative AI like OpenAI's ChatGPT.
) Israel army chief says Gaza assault will last 'many more months'Israel's army chief has warned its aggression in Gaza will last "many more months" as the military stepped up strikes, where nearly 21,000 people have already been reported killed.But Israel's leaders have repeatedly vowed to keep up their offensive until Palestinian resistance group Hamas is destroyed, and army chief Herzi Halevi signalled there would be no quick end to the war.) EU said to be preparing $22B fund plan for UkraineThe European Union is preparing a back-up plan worth up to $22.08 billion for Ukraine, the Financial Times has reported.The debt-funded scheme would sidestep Hungary to release money for Kiev quickly, the report said.All 27 EU states except Hungary recently agreed to start accession talks with Ukraine despite the Russian attack, bypassing PM Viktor Orban's opposition by getting him to leave the room during the summit when the decision was made. Orban confirmed it was German Chancellor Olaf Scholz who suggested this solution. ) 'Exodus from poverty': Migrant caravan slogs on through southern MexicoThousands of refugees and asylum seekers have moved slowly north across the southern Mexican state of Chiapas in a caravan hoping to reach the US border, one day before top US officials planned to visit Mexico to discuss migration.Refugees and asylum seekers transit through Mexico to the US to escape violence, economic distress and negative impacts of the climate crisis, according to the United Nations.The number crossing the perilous Darien Gap straddling Colombia and Central America has topped half a million this year, double last year's record.) Trump shares poll showing voters link potential second term with 'revenge'In a December 25 Truth Social post, Trump shared the results of a poll commissioned by DailyMail.com, in which voters were asked to provide a word they most associate with Trump's plans for a second term.The results, presented in the form of a word cloud, indicated that "revenge" was the most popular choice.In the post, Trump directed his attacks toward those who disagreed with him politically, whom he called "thugs"."MAY THEY ROT IN HELL," Trump wrote in all caps. "AGAIN, MERRY CHRISTMAS!"And finally…*) South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun of Oscar-winning film 'Parasite' is found deadLee Sun-kyun, a popular South Korean actor best known globally for his role in the Oscar-winning movie “Parasite," was found dead in a car in Seoul, authorities said.Police and emergency officers initially found Lee in what they believed was an unconscious state in the car parked on a street in northern Seoul. Emergency officers later confirmed he was dead, according to Seoul's Seongbuk police station.
)Families of hostages boo Israel's Netanyahu during parliament addressFamilies of hostages taken by Hamas booed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he addressed parliament, vowing to bring the captives home but saying "more time" was needed."Now! Now!" the families chanted from the gallery when Netanyahu said Israeli forces first needed to increase military pressure on Palestinian resistance group Hamas.Netanyahu said he spoke to Israeli field commanders who said they needed "more time" to finish the mission.) Nicaragua-bound plane carrying 300 'trafficked' Indians lands in MumbaiA plane that had been grounded in France for days over concerns its nearly 300 mostly Indian passengers were part of a human trafficking scheme has landed in Mumbai, flight tracking data showed.The Airbus A340 initially had been bound for Nicaragua when it was detained last Thursday at Vatry airport, east of Paris, where it had stopped for refuelling.It had arrived from Dubai, and there was an anonymous tip-off that it was carrying potential victims of human trafficking.Of the original 303 people on the passenger list, 276 were on the plane that took off just before 3:00 pm on Monday.Among the passengers staying behind were two people questioned by French police over suspected people trafficking, but a judicial source said police released them after establishing that the 303 passengers had boarded the plane of their own free will. ) Ukraine destroys Russian fleet ship in Crimea: air forceUkraine's air force said it had destroyed a Russian fleet ship off the Crimean peninsula suspected of carrying drones for use in Moscow's war against Kiev."Around 2:30 am (0030 GMT) on December 26, tactical aviation of the Air Force attacked with cruise missiles the Novocherkassk large landing ship of the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation in the area of Feodosia," it said in a post on messaging platform Telegram.Feodosia is home to a major Russian naval base on the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula.) Indian navy to deploy guided missile destroyer ships after strike off its coastIndia's navy will deploy guided missile destroyer ships in the Arabian Sea after an Israel-affiliated merchant vessel was struck off the Indian coast over the weekend.The Indian navy was investigating the nature of the attack on the vessel, MV Chem Pluto, which docked in Mumbai, and initial reports pointed to a drone attack, the statement said.A spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry on Monday called a US claim that Iran had attacked the ship near India "baseless".And finally…*)Archaeologists in Türkiye unearth remnants providing clues to religious beliefs of ancient MedesArchaeologists in northern Türkiye have unearthed structures and religious artefacts linked to the Medes, an ancient Iranian people, marking their first appearance in Anatolian archaeology.Excavations were unearthed in the previous years at Oluz Hoyuk in Amasya province, where pottery fragments and ceramics were identified as belonging to the Medes.This year’s findings from the region revealed altars and architectural structures which were also determined to belong to the Medes.The Medes were an ancient Iranian tribe from the Iron Age living mostly between today’s western and northern Iran.
)Israeli 'massacre' on Christmas Eve at refugee camp kills 70An Israeli air strike on Al Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza has killed at least 70 people, a spokesman for the health ministry in the enclave said.Ashraf Al Qudra said what was happening at the Maghazi camp was a "massacre" that was committed on a crowded residential block.He added that the death toll is likely to climb, given the large number of families residing there.) Gunfire erupts at a Colorado mall on Christmas Eve. One man is dead and 3 people are hurtA man was fatally shot and three people were hurt as gunfire rang out at a shopping centre in Colorado on Christmas Eve, police said.A fight broke out between two groups of people on Sunday afternoon at the Citadel Mall in Colorado Springs and officers received a report of gunshots and responded, the Colorado Springs Police Department said.Colorado Springs is about 114 kilometres south of Denver.) Serbian opposition supporters try to break into Belgrade assemblyHundreds of residents of Serbia’s capital tried to break into the Belgrade City Assembly building as they gathered to protest the results of snap general and local elections that took place last weekend.The protest rally was organised by the Serbia Against Violence (SPN) coalition, which said the elections were marred by irregularities.A police officer appeared at the entrance to the assembly and warned SPN leaders and the crowd that forced entry is a “criminal offence.”) Maersk to resume operations in Red SeaDanish shipping giant Maersk announced that it will resume operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden after a multinational security initiative deployed its forces against Houthi attacks.Yemen’s Houthi rebel group has significantly stepped up its involvement in the war in Gaza.The group has warned that it will attack all Israel-bound ships in the Red Sea, one of the world's most frequently used sea routes for oil and fuel shipments, in a bid to support Palestinians.The world's largest container companies suspended their operations in the region last week.And finally…*)Australia skipper Cummins backs Khawaja on Gaza viewsAustralia captain Pat Cummins threw his support behind star opener Usman Khawaja Monday, saying his bid to bring attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was "not offensive".Khawaja has been denied permission by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to have a sticker showing a black dove holding an olive branch on his bat and shoes during the second Test against Pakistan.The 36-year-old was stopped from wearing shoes emblazoned with the hand-written slogans "Freedom is a human right" and "All lives are equal" during the first Test in Perth.The ICC said they flouted its rules on messages that relate to politics, religion or race.
) Gaza death toll from Israeli attacks hits 20,057The Palestinian death toll from Israeli attacks on Gaza has soared to 20,057, according to the Health Ministry in the blockaded enclave. The ministry added that at least 53,320 others have been injured in Israel’s attacks since October 7.“At least 390 people have been killed and 734 others have been injured in the last 48 hours in which communications were disrupted in the Gaza Strip," it said in a statement.) UNSC to vote on new Gaza resolutionThe UN Security Council is expected to meet on Friday to vote on a draft resolution penned by the United Arab Emirates, which reportedly calls for "urgent steps" to allow the safe and unhindered delivery of aid to civilians in Gaza.Intense closed-door negotiations have been carried out all week by the Council to avoid a US veto.According to a report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification scale: "The entire population of Gaza – roughly 2.2 million people – are in crisis or worse levels of acute food insecurity."The World Health Organization has said that northern Gaza has been left without a functional hospital due to a lack of fuel, staff and supplies.) UN says up to 300,000 Sudanese fled their homes after a notorious group seized their safe havenFighting between Sudan's military and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group has forced up to 300,000 people to flee their homes in a province that had once been a safe haven for displaced people, according to the UN.The fighting erupted in the city of Wad Medani, the provincial capital of Jazeera province, after the Rapid Support Forces attacked the city earlier this month.The RSF said that it took over Wad Medani earlier this week, and the military said that its troops withdrew from the city, and an investigation has been opened.) Ukraine says downed 24 of 28 Russian drones overnightUkraine says it had downed 24 out of 28 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight as two Kiev residents were reported injured by a drone attack on a residential building.Air raid sirens were heard in Kiev late Thursday and residents heard loud explosions.City hall initially said air defences were in action, calling on people to stay in shelters.Russian missiles and drones frequently target the Ukrainian capital but are usually shot down by air defence systems.And finally…*) France to close its embassy in Niger for an 'indefinite period'France will close its diplomatic mission in Niger, according to a letter sent to embassy staff and seen by The Associated Press.The news that the embassy in the capital Niamey is to close comes as France prepares to withdraw its last remaining military forces from the Sahel state this month.Relations between France and Niger have been in crisis since the coup d’etat in July against democratically elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, and Paris’ refusal to collaborate with the military junta ruling the country.
) Israel's unlawful executions in Gaza may amount to 'war crime' — UNThe Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territory has said it has received alarming reports, accusing the Israeli army of summarily executing at least 11 unarmed Palestinian men in the Al Remal neighbourhood of Gaza City.The incident, which unfolded in front of family members, has raised concerns “about the possible commission of a war crime" and the accusations follow earlier claims of Israeli forces deliberately targeting and killing civilians, the statement said.) Exporters mull other ways to move goods as Houthi sway on Red Sea persistsExporters are scrambling to find alternative air, land and ocean routes as disarray ripples through freight supply chains around the world, during a wave of attacks in the Red Sea amid Israel's war on besieged Gaza.Houthi rebels in Yemen have stepped up attacks on vessels in the Red Sea since November 19 to show support for Palestine enduring more than two months of Israeli aggression and siege.The attacks have disrupted a key trade route linking Europe and North America with Asia via Egypt's Suez Canal.) Russian troops said to have seized Ukraine stronghold in DonetskRussian paratroopers have stormed a Ukrainian military stronghold northwest of Artyomovsk in Donetsk region, according to Moscow-based TASS news agency.The report said the paratroopers discovered the Ukrainian main fire weapons and control points during an aerial reconnaissance.Paratroopers reportedly suppressed and disrupted their control system before capturing the positions of the Ukrainian armed forces, after which they carried out a complete clearing of the stronghold.) DRC extends voting after chaotic presidential, legislative electionsThe Democratic Republic of Congo's election authorities have said that voting would continue the following day in areas where voters could not cast ballots, after a general election marked by severe logistical problems and delays.There had long been fears that the four concurrent polls on Wednesday — to elect a president, national and regional lawmakers, as well as local councillors — would turn chaotic in the impoverished but mineral-rich central African nation.President Felix Tshisekedi, 60, is running for a second term in office, against a backdrop of years of economic growth but soaring inflation and conflict in eastern DRC where some 120 rebels groups including powerful M23 hold sway.*) Warner Brothers Discovery, Paramount Global in mega merger talksWarner Brothers Discovery shares slid more than 5 percent after reports emerged that the media and entertainment giant is exploring a merger with rival Paramount Global.Warner Brothers Discovery chief executive David Zaslav met with Paramount Global boss Bob Bakish for several hours to discuss the possibility of merging the companies, according to Axios.The talks were described as preliminary, with the outcome uncertain.
Hamas's armed wing in Lebanon claims responsibility for targeting Israel, and New York takes steps toward slavery reparations with new commission.This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, December 20th. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Israel faces Gaza ceasefire calls, US vows more armsIsrael faced another round of global pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza with a new UN vote and fresh Western diplomatic efforts, although the United States vowed to continue arming its ally.The UN Security Council is set to convene today to weigh a call for a ceasefire in the besieged Palestinian territory, after a previous bid was vetoed by the United States.UK Foreign Minister David Cameron was also due to meet French and Italian leaders to push for a "sustainable ceasefire" in the conflict, his office said.) Earthquake in northwestern China kills at least 111At least 111 people were killed in a 6.2-magnitude earthquake in northwestern China, the official Xinhua News Agency reported.The quake resulted in 100 deaths in Gansu province and 11 in Qinghai province while damaging water, electricity, transportation and communications infrastructure, said the report.In Gansu, 96 people were reported to have been injured and 124 in Qinghai.Chinese President Xi Jinping called for all-out search and rescue efforts and proper arrangements for affected people to ensure the safety of people's lives and property, said the agency.) Volcano erupts on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsulaA volcano began erupting on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula, the Icelandic Meteorological Office said."At 22:17 this evening, a volcanic eruption began north of Grindavik on the Reykjanes peninsula," said the office in a release on Monday."The eruption is located close to Sundhnúkagígar, about four kilometres northeast of Grindavik, and it can be seen on nearby web cameras," it said.The eruption began following an earthquake that started around an hour earlier.) 2nd military plane carrying patients from Gaza arrives in TürkiyeA second military plane carrying patients from Gaza and their attendants arrived in Türkiye for medical treatment.The C-130 aircraft, belonging to Türkiye's National Defense Ministry, touched down with 26 patients, 32 accompanying individuals and medical personnel whose passage from Gaza to Egypt was facilitated.It took off from Al Arish Airport in Egypt and landed at Etimesgut Military Airport in Ankara.Upon arriving at the airport, the patients were transferred to the city centre via waiting ambulances.The aircraft was carrying 1.2 tons of medicines and medical supplies along with nine healthcare personnel.And finally…*) Istanbul Airport voted world's bestIstanbul Airport has been voted the “World's Best Airport" by readers of leading US travel magazine Global Traveler.The mega air hub has also been chosen as "Europe's Best Airport," further cementing its position as a leader in global aviation, according to a statement Monday.iGA Istanbul Airport also received awards for being the "Airport with the Best Food and Beverage Area," the "Best Airport Shopping Experience" and the "Airport Offering the Best Duty-Free Shopping Experience in Europe."
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, December 18th.) Israel kills 90 in refugee camp as its attacks continue in GazaThe Israeli army has launched deadly attacks across Gaza, hitting a refugee camp in the north, a hospital in the south and killing a teenage girl who had lost her leg in an earlier strike, according to Palestinian officials, media and eyewitnesses.Israeli strikes on the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza killed 90 Palestinians, Gaza’s health ministry spokesman told Reuters. Another missile attack on a house belonging to the Shehab family killed 24 people, Hamas Aqsa radio said.“We believe the number of dead people under the rubble is huge but there is no way to remove the rubble and recover them because of the intensity of Israeli fire,” the spokesman said by telephone.) Voters in Chile reject draft constitution, election officials sayChilean voters have rejected a proposed new constitution drafted by a conservative-led committee, election officials said, meaning the charter imposed during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet will remain in force.With 99 percent of referendum ballots counted, the “against” option prevailed with 55.75 percent of the vote, compared to 44.25 percent in favour, according to electoral service Servel just hours after voting ended around 6:00 pm on Sunday (2100 GMT).The latest version of a new proposed constitution was overseen by the far-right opposition Republican Party after voters roundly rejected a progressive draft in September 2022 that attempted to enshrine environmental protections and the right to elective abortion.) Iraqis vote in first provincial elections for a decadeIraqis vote to choose their provincial councils, the first such election in a decade.Ballots will be held in 15 of Iraq’s provinces but not in the other three which are Kurdish and operate under a separate autonomous system.The election is seen as a key test for the government of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani.He rose to power just over a year ago on the back of a parliamentary coalition and has focused on developing public services and infrastructure ravaged by decades of conflict.) Serbia President Vucic says his party won parliamentary pollsSerbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic has said his party had won a commanding victory in parliamentary elections, extending the populist outfit’s rule in the Balkan country amid accusations of foul play by the opposition.Official results were set to be announced late on Monday but the president appeared certain of his Serbian Progressive Party (SNS)’s performance, just hours after the polls closed on Sunday.Even though Vucic was not personally on the ballot in Sunday’s parliamentary and local elections, the contest was largely seen as a referendum on his government.And finally…*) 14th TRT International Documentary Awards held in IstanbulThe 14th TRT International Documentary Awards, organised by Türkiye’s national broadcaster TRT, took place in Istanbul between December 14-17 with screenings of national and international documentaries and the participation of expert guests in the field.Throughout the four-day event, documentaries competing in various categories and special selection films were shown to audiences, contributing to enriching the documentary climate in Türkiye.“The Lens of Democracy” received the Best Film Award in the International Category, while “Flaneur” was chosen as the Best Film in the National Professional Category.Speaking at the ceremony, TRT General Manager Mehmet Zahid Sobaci said the event is the largest documentary film festival in Türkiye.He pointed out that it is impossible to think independently about the history and adventure of documentaries and documentary making in Türkiye without TRT “because TRT, since its establishment, has become the school of documentary making.”And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
1) Israeli leaflets incite Gaza residents to spy on Hamas leadersThe Israeli army has dropped leaflets over besieged Gaza, inciting displaced Palestinians to spy on Hamas leaders.Leaflets state that individuals offering information will be rewarded financially, with the amounts specified as follows: Yahya Sinwar at $400,000, Muhammed Sinwar at $300,000, Rafaa Salameh at $200,000, and Mohammed Deif at $100,000.2) Türkiye condemns Israeli soldiers' provocation at a mosque in West BankThe Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keceli has slammed Israeli soldiers for performing Jewish rituals inside a mosque in the occupied West Bank. Keceli expressed strong condemnation on social media, urging that such attacks on Muslim holy places be halted immediately. He called for the severe punishment of those responsible for such provocations. Keceli concluded his remarks with, 'The region needs more peace, not more violence.'3) Turkish President Erdogan says Washington's withdrawal of its support for Israel would ensure a quick ceasefirePresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during a phone call with President Joe Biden on Thursday night. He suggested that a swift ceasefire could be achieved if the US withdraws its unconditional support for Israel. Erdogan emphasised the historical responsibility of the US to promptly achieve a lasting ceasefire in the region.) Russia’s Putin says there will be no peace in Ukraine until Russia achieves its goalsRussian President Vladimir Putin, addressing the Russia-Ukraine war in a year-end news conference, declared that peace in Ukraine is contingent upon the realisation of the Kremlin's unchanged goals after nearly two years of conflict.He dismissed the idea of a second wave of reservist mobilisation, a widely unpopular proposal in Russia.Putin mentioned that approximately 617,000 Russian soldiers are currently deployed in Ukraine, with around 244,000 called up to support professional military forces.) Pope Francis urges global treaty on AI ethics for a safer futurePope Francis, in a six-page message released ahead of the Catholic Church's World Day of Peace on January 1, has urged global leaders to adopt a treaty regulating the ethical use of artificial intelligence.The 86-year-old pontiff acknowledged the positive impact of technological advances but cautioned against the risks posed by AI.He also emphasised concerns related to disinformation, election interference, and the blurred responsibility in decision-making, ranging from social security payments to weapon targeting.
) Israel targets northern and southern GazaAt least 27 Palestinians have been killed early Thursday morning in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, according to the Palestinian news agency Wafa.The Israeli army carried out airstrikes on wide areas in northern and southern Gaza, particularly targeting the cities of Khan Younis and Rafah, the agency cited local sources as saying.The war, now in its third month, began after the October 7 attacks on Israel by Palestinian group Hamas that Israeli officials say killed 1,200 people.US President Joe Biden, whose government has provided Israel with billions of dollars of military aid, on Wednesday gave his sharpest rebuke of the war yet, saying Israel's "indiscriminate bombing" of Gaza was weakening international support.) Sudan suffering 'one of world's worst humanitarian crisis': UNNearly 18 million people in Sudan are facing acute hunger because of the ongoing war, an official from the UN food agency says.World Food Program spokeswoman in Sudan, Leni Kinzl said close to 5 million are in emergency levels of food insecurity.Sudan has been mired by fighting between the army, led by General Abdel Fattah al Burhan, head of the ruling Sovereign Council, and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group.At least 12,260 victims have been killed and more than 33,000 injured in the conflict, according to UN figures.) At least 1 killed, 11 injured in Russian airstrikes on UkraineAt least one person has been killed and 11 others injured in overnight Russian airstrikes on Ukraine's southwestern Odessa and southern Kherson regions.Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on Telegram that a rocket attack on the Kherson region killed one person and drone attacks on Odessa injured 11 people and damaged residential buildings. In a separate statement, the Ukrainian Air Force claimed that Russia conducted airstrikes “from the temporarily occupied Kherson region in the direction of My-ko-laiv as well as Kherson regions.It further claimed that 41 of the 42 drones launched by Russia were downed by air defence systems, most of which were shot down over the Odessa region.) Chad votes on new constitution ahead of promised end of military ruleChadians will vote on Sunday on a new constitution, in a key step towards elections promised by the ruling junta and seen as a test of legitimacy for the Deby dynasty's more than 30-year rule.Transitional President General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, whose junta has governed since 2021, had promised to hand power to civilians and hold elections this year before postponing them to 2024.The "yes" vote is expected to win the constitutional referendum after a well-financed campaign by the ruling junta against a divided opposition, which has faced arrest, intimidation and threats for more than a year.*) EU reaches deal to reform electricity marketThe European Union has reached an agreement to reform the bloc's electricity market in a bid to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and stabilise consumer prices.The EU's plans are aimed at making the market less vulnerable to volatility and were seen as a response to Russia's military offensive against Ukraine, which sent energy prices spiralling for consumers and businesses last year.The deal will have to be endorsed and adopted by both the Council and the Parliament.
) Australia votes at UNGA for Gaza truce in rare split with USAustralian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has said the country had supported a UN resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza out of concern for civilians in the besieged Palestinian enclave, in a rare split with close ally the United States.After dire warnings by UN officials over a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the 193-member UN General Assembly passed a resolution calling for a ceasefire with 153 countries including Australia voting in favour and 23 abstaining.Ten countries voted against including the US and Israel and the rest five did not vote.Israel's current war on besieged Gaza — now in its 68th day — has left at least 18,412 Palestinians dead and wounded more than 50,100 others while thousands are feared dead under debris of bombed buildings.) Israel cannot say no in the future to a Palestinian state: BidenUS President Joe Biden has said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu needs to change his hardline government and that Israel cannot say no in the future to a Palestinian state, ramping up pressure on the Israelis.Biden’s remarks at a fundraising event for his 2024 re-election campaign came after the US sold 14,000 tank shells to Israel without Congress review and also scuttled a UNSC vote that would have called for a ceasefire in Israel’s war on Gaza.Biden claimed that Israel had “most of the world supporting it,” despite global protests since October 7 and member states at the UN Security Council and UN General Assembly overwhelmingly demanding Israel end its brutal war in Gaza.) Nearly a fifth of Gaza’s buildings destroyed or damaged: UNNearly 40,000 buildings or about 18 percent of all pre-conflict structures have been damaged or destroyed in Gaza since the Israeli bombardment began, a UN assessment has shown.The latest estimate, based on a November 26 image, was produced by the United Nations Satellite Centre, where analysts examine very high resolution satellite images to find damaged buildings and publish maps that can guide relief work and rebuilding plans during natural disasters and conflicts.Estimates such as this based on high-resolution satellite images might still underestimate the scale of destruction since they do not show all building damage — for example, a collapsed building with an intact roof can look undamaged.) Polls close in Egypt as Sisi cruises toward third winPolling has closed in Egypt after a three-day election widely expected to return sitting President Abdel Fattah el Sisi to power in the Arab world’s most populous country.Government newspaper Al Ahram reported that the National Elections Authority, which is responsible for organising the poll, recorded an “unprecedented” turnout.Polling stations closed their doors at 1900 GMT, and the results will be announced on Monday.*) COP28 proposed deal calls for ‘transitioning away’ from fossil fuelsA new draft agreement unveiled in talks in Dubai has toughened language by calling for “transitioning away” from fossil fuels, although it does not use the term “phase-out.”The document recognised “the need for deep, rapid and sustained reductions in GHG [greenhouse gas] emissions in line with 1.5C pathways” and called upon nations to take actions.Discussions during the 14 days of talks in Dubai had revolved around how far to go and whether to make a historic call to wind down oil, gas and coal — the main culprits in the planet’s rapid heating.
) Hamas says fighters killed 40 Israeli soldiers in last 48 hoursThe Palestinian resistance group Hamas has said its armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, killed 40 Israeli soldiers in the past 48 hours.In a statement posted on Telegram, Hamas said its fighters managed to completely or partially destroy 44 military vehicles “on all fronts of the fighting in Gaza.”The statement reported the use of booby traps to destroy buildings, targeting an Israeli field command centre, and using mortar shells and short-range rockets against areas where soldiers gathered.Israel has not yet issued a statement regarding the announcement.) Qatar ‘continuing’ efforts to renew Gaza ceasefire despite Israeli attacksMediation efforts have been continuing to secure a new Gaza ceasefire despite ongoing Israeli bombardment that is “narrowing the window” for a successful outcome, Qatar’s prime minister said.Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told the Doha Forum that Qatar is continuing to make efforts along with its partners for a ceasefire and that they are not going to give up.Qatar was a key mediator in negotiations that resulted in a seven-day truce, which saw Israeli hostages exchanged for Palestinian women and children, and allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza.) Guterres: UN Security Council’s authority, credibility severely underminedUnited Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the credibility and authority of the UN Security Council suffered significant damage over the Gaza war.Speaking at the Doha Forum held in Qatar, Guterres criticised the UN Security Council’s “resounding silence” over Israel’s war in Gaza.Guterres underlined that “there is no effective protection of civilians in Gaza,” and called for a humanitarian ceasefire in the besieged territory amid ongoing Israeli bombardment.) Zelenskyy emphasises ‘fight for freedom’ during Argentina visitPresident Volodymyr Zelenskyy has discussed the Russian invasion of Ukraine with the leaders of Ecuador, Paraguay and Uruguay during a trip to Buenos Aires to attend the inauguration of President Javier Milei.Zelenskyy said the support and strong united voice of Latin American countries that stand with the people of Ukraine in its fight for freedom and democracy is very important for Ukrainians.The Ukrainian leader praised Uruguay’s participation in the third foreign advisors meeting on the implementation of Ukraine’s formula for peace, and invited Ecuador and Paraguay to join.*) Trump cancels plan to testify in NY fraud trialDonald Trump has changed his mind about testifying in his own defence in his New York fraud case, he said, announcing that he will not take the stand as expected because he has “nothing more to say.”The 77-year-old posted the surprise statement on Truth Social on Sunday, adding that he has “already testified to everything” in the ongoing trial against him, his eldest sons Don Jr and Eric, and other Trump Organization executives.Trump was questioned last month by the prosecution, which has accused him and the other defendants of exaggerating the value of their real estate assets by billions of dollars to obtain more favourable bank loans and insurance terms.
) UN Security Council to consider urging Gaza ceasefireThe UN Security Council is set to meet under acute pressure from Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and will vote on urging an immediate ceasefire in besieged Gaza.The renewed push for a ceasefire was made by Arab states after Guterres made a rare move on Wednesday to formally warn the Security Council of a global threat from Israel's Gaza war.To be adopted, a resolution needs at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes by the five permanent members — the United States, Russia, China, France or Britain.) Palestinian Authority in collaboration with US on postwar plan for GazaThe Palestinian Authority is working with US officials on a plan to run Gaza after the war, Bloomberg News has reported, citing Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh.Shtayyeh said the preferred outcome of the conflict would be for Hamas to become a junior partner under the Palestinian Liberation Organization, helping to build a new independent state that includes the occupied West Bank, besieged Gaza and East Jerusalem. "If they (Hamas) are ready to come to an agreement and accept the political platform of the PLO, then there will be room for talk…” Shtayyeh said.He also underlined that Israel's aim to fully defeat Hamas is unrealistic.) Armenia, Azerbaijan agree to take steps towards normalisationArmenia and Azerbaijan have said they would exchange prisoners of war and work towards normalising their relations after three decades of conflict over disputed territory.The Caucasus neighbours have long fought over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which Azerbaijan reclaimed after an offensive against Armenian separatists in September.The two sides agreed in a joint statement to seize "a historical chance to achieve a long-awaited peace in the region".Both countries have said a peace agreement could be signed by the end of the year. ) EU to give member states authority to halt Russian gas importsThe European Union is poised to give its member states the power to halt gas imports from Russia and Belarus, according to a Financial Times report. Any member state will be able to block companies from Russia and Belarus from obtaining space in their gas pipelines and liquefied natural gas terminals, FT cited a draft legal text proposed by Brussels.The EU member states could have the authority to "partially or, where justified, completely limit" access to infrastructure to gas operators from Russia and Belarus, in order to protect their vital security interests.*) After day of rest at climate summit, COP28 negotiators turn back to fossil fuelsThe United Nations climate conference begins its final week with negotiators expected to zoom in on the future of fossil fuels.Negotiators will work to finalise a key document called the Global Stocktake, which evaluates the world’s climate change progress since the 2015 Paris agreement and what needs to be done now to limit global warming. Professional negotiators will turn in a new draft to senior national officials, many at minister levels, who will have to make the political decisions.
) Antonio Guterres invokes Article 99 of UN charter over Gaza crisisFor the first time in his tenure, the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has invoked Article 99 of the UN's charter over the crisis in besieged Gaza. The article states that "the Secretary-General may bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security."Guterres wrote to the president of the Security Council that the humanitarian conditions amid Israel’s war on Gaza are "fast deteriorating into a catastrophe with potentially irreversible implications for Palestinians as a whole."Israel has killed at least 16,248 Palestinians and wounded more than 43,616 others in relentless air and ground attacks on the enclave since October 7.) Jewish groups plan to march to Al-Aqsa Mosque to ‘end its Islamic status’Jewish groups have announced a plan to march to Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem to “end its Islamic status” and "establish full Jewish sovereignty" in Jerusalem. Various far-right Jewish groups said the march, which was greenlit by the Israeli police, would be held Thursday evening, coinciding with the first day of Hanukkah, a Jewish festival that lasts eight days.Located in the Old City of occupied East Jerusalem, Al Aqsa Mosque is under the authority of the Jerusalem Islamic Endowment, affiliated with the Jordanian Ministry of Foundations, according to the Israel-Jordan Peace Treaty signed on October 26 1994.) Turkiye's Erdogan in Athens in 'new chapter' bidTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to travel to Athens in a keenly watched visit billed as an attempted "new chapter" between the NATO allies and historic rivals after years of tension.In meetings with Greek Prime Minister KEER-E-AKOS- MIT-SO-TAKIS and President Katerina Sakellaropoulou (Sakellaropolu), Erdogan is expected to discuss trade, regional issues and the thorny issue of migration.In an interview with the Greek daily Kathimerini a day before his planned visit, Erdogan said he was seeking a "new chapter" in relations on the basis of "win-win" principles.) EU tells China 'differences' must be addressedThe leaders of China and the European Union have held the first in-person summit in over four years, focused on wide-ranging issues including disputes over trade and a deep divide on the war in Ukraine.On the agenda at the summit, the EU is calling on China to improve market access for products from its 27 member countries to address an annual trade imbalance of more than $200 billion between the two sides. The EU is also calling on China to use its influence with Russia to end the war in Ukraine. *) New lawsuit says Meta exposes children to exploitationThe US state of New Mexico has filed a lawsuit accusing Facebook and Instagram of being a "breeding ground" for predators who target children.In total, more than 40 states are suing Meta, though some opted to file in local courts rather than join in the federal case.The lawsuit says children can easily evade Facebook and Instagram age constraints, exposing young people to inappropriate material.
) Israel to keep control of Gaza’s security after war: NetanyahuIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the Israeli army will retain control of besieged Gaza’s security after the war.Speaking at a news conference after a meeting with his war cabinet, Netanyahu said Gaza “must be demilitarised” after the war ends.Netanyahu said the Israeli army will take care of demilitarisation, adding that no international force can be responsible for this.) ‘If Trump wasn’t running, I’m not sure I’d be running’: BidenUS President Joe Biden has told campaign donors that he wasn’t sure he’d be running for reelection if Donald Trump wasn’t also in the race.He said democracy is “more at risk in 2024” and that the former president and his allies are out to “destroy” democratic institutions.President Biden was using a trio of fundraisers to caution against what might happen should his predecessor again claim control of the White House.) US could become responsible for Ukraine’s defeat: YellenUS Treasury’s Janet Yellen has said that the United States would “be responsible for Ukraine’s defeat” if the US Congress fails to approve the Biden administration’s latest multi-billion-dollar funding request for the war-stricken country.Yellen told reporters on a trip to Mexico City that the funding — particularly for Ukraine’s general government budget support — was “utterly essential” and a pre-condition to keep IMF support flowing to Ukraine.Yellen said the US can hold itself responsible for Ukraine’s defeat if it doesn’t manage to get this funding to Ukraine that’s needed.) Negotiators at COP28 mull over fossil fuel phaseoutA second draft of what could be the final agreement from the COP28 UN climate summit shows negotiators are considering calling for an “orderly and just” phase-out of fossil fuels.The draft text was published by the UN climate body and shows the possible outcomes for talks at the COP28 summit in Dubai.The negotiations are part of the “global stocktake” process, in which nearly 200 nations are trying to agree on plans to curb rising global temperatures.*) Crazy that West still ‘trying to cast Israelis as victims’: Roger WatersPink Floyd’s co-founder Roger Waters has said that he finds it “crazy that the West is still trying to cast Israelis as victims.”In an exclusive interview to TRT World, Waters said it’s hard for anybody to put themselves in Palestinians’ position, especially those living in Gaza, who are facing bombardment by F-16s day and night.He said one cannot even begin to imagine what it must be like and that the assault being cheered on by the most powerful empire in the world is disgusting beyond all belief.
) Israeli army carries out overnight airstrikes across Gaza, causing dozens of casualtiesThe Israeli army has carried out a series of overnight bombings across Gaza, causing dozens of casualties among the Palestinian people.The Palestinian official news agency Wafa reported an Israeli airstrike on a residential building of the Al-Yazigi family in the Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood of Gaza City, which left an unspecified number of casualties, including women and children.Another Israeli airstrike on a home in the Khan Younis refugee camp in southern Gaza caused several deaths and injuries.Israel resumed its attacks on Gaza on Friday after the end of a week-long humanitarian pause with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas.At least 15,899 Palestinians have been killed and more than 42,000 others injured in relentless air and ground attacks on the enclave since Hamas’ October 7 surprise attack that killed 1,200 Israelis. ) Zelenskyy to address US senators by video as White House pushes Congress to support aid for UkraineThe Biden administration will urge Congress to approve a request of $106 billion of funding for the wars in Ukraine, Israel and other security needs during a classified briefing. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the administration invited Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to address the senators so they "could hear directly from him precisely what's at stake." In a letter to House and Senate leaders, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young warned the US will run out of funding to send weapons and assistance to Ukraine by the end of the year. ) Niger ends EU defence, security partnershipsNiger's military administration announced that it has ended two security and defence partnerships with the European Union as the country looks more towards Russia for defence cooperation.A statement issued by the Foreign Ministry said the state is withdrawing from the European Union Military Partnership Mission that was launched in February of this year, as well as from the 2012 EU civilian capacity-building mission established to strengthen the country’s internal security forces.The development came on the same day a Russian delegation met with Niger's military leaders in the capital Niamey, with the two countries sealing a deal to strengthen defence cooperation.) At least 6 people have died as heavy rains from Tropical Cyclone Michaung hit India's coastsTorrential rains and strong winds lashing India's southern and eastern coasts have killed at least six people, as states brace for a powerful storm expected to make landfall later in the day. The southern states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, as well as Odisha in the east, experienced heavy downpours Monday as authorities issued warnings for Tropical Cyclone Michaung, according to the Indian Meteorological Department.India's weather department said parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh could see over 200 millimetres of rain as the storm approaches.*) Activists at COP28 summit ramp up pressure on cutting fossil fuels as talks turn to clean energyActivists have a series of events and actions lined up at the United Nations climate summit, seeking to amp up pressure on conference participants to agree to phase out coal, oil and gas.Negotiations are well underway on the so-called global stocktake — a framework for new national plans set for countries to adhere to capping warming to levels set in the Paris Agreement in 2015.A draft released Tuesday will be analysed by negotiators looking at how to stick to the goal. Over 100 countries have pledged to triple their renewable capacity and double energy efficiency by the end of the decade.
) Israeli army to 'fight hard' in southern GazaIsrael's ground invasion has expanded to every part of Gaza, according to its military, as it ordered more evacuations, vowing to hit south Gaza with “no less strength” than it hit the north. Heavy bombardment followed the evacuation orders, and Palestinians in the sealed-off territory bordering Israel and Egypt say there was no place left to go. Nearly half of Gaza's 2.3 million people fled to the south after Israel ordered civilians to leave the north in the beginning of the war on the enclave. Israel’s war on Gaza was sparked by the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel that killed about 1,200 Israelis. And over 15,500 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza by Israeli bombardment. ) Turkish Red Crescent sends over $3.4M aid to Gaza amid ongoing warThe Turkish Red Crescent has dispatched over $3.4 million worth of aid to Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis, the head of the relief group said.Addressing an event in Istanbul, Fatma Meric Yilmaz said the Red Crescent had gathered about $17.3 million in financial donations, with the $3.4 million dispatched as immediate assistance.Additionally, the organisation has sent in-kind aid carried from Türkiye on 11 aircraft and two ships.) US Muslims launch anti-Biden campaign ahead of 2024 presidential electionMuslims in the US have launched a campaign against President Joe Biden’s bid for re-election in 2024 over his support for Israel in its war on Gaza.A group of Muslim leaders from Michigan, Minnesota, Arizona, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and Pennsylvania gathered over the weekend in Dearborn, Michigan to launch the campaign.The campaign aims to encourage voters to withdraw their support for Biden due to his “unwillingness to call for a cease-fire and protect innocents in Palestine and Israel," it said in a statement.American news website Axios said that Arab American and Muslim American outrage could hurt Biden’s re-election prospects in most of the 2024 swing states he won in 2020.) 11 hikers dead after Indonesia volcano erupts, dozen still missingEleven hikers have been found dead and another 12 are missing after a volcano erupted in Indonesia, with rescuers racing to carry injured and burned survivors down the mountain on foot.Rescuers worked through the night to find dozens of hikers stranded on Mount Marapi on the island of Sumatra after it spewed an ash tower of 3,000 metres into the sky on Sunday.Three hikers were found alive and 49 had safely descended from the crater, some with burns and fractures, according to a local rescue official.*) Bitcoin skyrockets, passes $40k amid optimism for US trading approvalBitcoin has risen past $40,000 for the first time since May last year, boosted by hopes that the United States will soon allow broader trading of the world's biggest cryptocurrency.The digital asset has skyrocketed this year, gaining nearly 150 percent, with expectations growing that US regulators will allow the creation of exchange-traded funds.These would track the price of bitcoin and allow the public to invest in the currency without directly purchasing it. Bitcoin was trading above $40,700 at around 0400 GMT Monday.
) Israel-Hamas agree to extend truce for seventh dayIsrael and Palestinian group Hamas have agreed to extend the truce for a seventh day after another exchange of captives for Palestinians and humanitarian aid was delivered to besieged Gaza.Israel’s military said that a truce with Hamas will continue “in light of the mediators’ efforts to continue the process of releasing hostages, and subject to the terms of the agreement.”Israel freed 30 more Palestinian women and minors early on Thursday as Hamas released 10 Israeli captives and four Thai nationals — who had arrived in Egypt on the same day.) Henry Kissinger, US diplomat and controversial Nobel winner, dies at 100Henry Kissinger, a controversial Nobel Peace Prize winner and diplomatic powerhouse has died at age 100.Kissinger Associates Inc said in a statement that he died at his home in Connecticut on Wednesday.Kissinger had been active past his centenary, attending meetings in the White House, publishing a book on leadership styles, and testifying before a Senate committee about the nuclear threat posed by North Korea.) India ‘intelligence’ official plotted to kill Sikh activist on US soilAn Indian government official has directed a $100,000 plot to assassinate a prominent Sikh separatist leader in New York City, US authorities said.Last spring, US officials became aware of the plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who is considered a terrorist by the Indian government.The US Drug Enforcement Administration stopped the plot when the foreign government employee recruited an international narcotics trafficker to commit the murder, the DEA administrator said.) Russia claims capture of village in Ukraine's Donetsk regionRussia said its armed forces had taken control of Khromove, a small village on the outskirts of Bakhmut in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.Moscow’s troops seized Bakhmut in May after one of the bloodiest battles of its 21-month military offensive.Russia’s defence ministry announced this in a daily briefing.*) Elon Musk uses F-word for advertisers who boycotted X over ‘anti-Semitism’Billionaire Elon Musk has used the F-word for advertisers who fled his social media platform X over alleged anti-Semitic content in a fiery interview.His remarks followed a moment of contrition in a New York Times DealBook Summit interview, as he first said, “I’m sorry” for a tweet that agreed with an “anti-Jewish” post on X on November 15.Musk has faced a torrent of criticism since he agreed with a user who claimed Jewish people were stoking hatred against white people, saying the user who referenced the “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory was speaking “the actual truth.”
) US, Israeli spy chiefs discuss ‘next phase’ of Gaza truce deal in DohaUS and Israeli intelligence chiefs have arrived in Doha to discuss the “next phase” of a deal between Hamas and Israel in Gaza, a source briefed on the visit said.The leaders of the US Central Intelligence Agency and Israel’s Mossad were scheduled to meet Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the source said, adding that Egyptian officials were also taking part.) More people at risk of death from disease than bombardment in Gaza: WHOMore people could die from disease than from Israeli bombings in Gaza if its health system was not repaired, World Health Organization spokesperson Margaret Harris has said at a UN briefing in Geneva.Palestinian health authorities in Gaza deemed reliable by the United Nations say more than 15,000 people have been confirmed killed in Israel’s bombardment, around 40 percent of them children, with many more dead feared to be lost under rubble.“(There are) no medicines, no vaccination activities, no access to safe water and hygiene and no food. We saw a very high number of cases of diarrhoea among infants,” the UN spokesperson said.) Israel not letting enough fuel in Gaza, curbs harming aid delivery: EUIsraeli restrictions on fuel supplies to Gaza are hampering aid deliveries and humanitarian access required under a UN resolution, an EU commissioner, Janez Lenarcic, has said.“We are calling for the increase of fuel supplies to Gaza,” Lenarcic told journalists in Brussels.“The humanitarian access should be based on the needs and not on some restrictions,” the EU commissioner said.) Hijab can be banned in public service, top European court rulesThe top European Union court has ruled that public authorities in member states can prohibit employees from wearing signs of religious belief, such as a Muslim head scarf.The Court of Justice of the European Union said a policy of strict neutrality that was intended to establish a neutral administrative environment may be regarded as being objectively justified by a legitimate aim.It added that another public administration would also be justified if it decided to authorise, in a general and indiscriminate manner, the wearing of visible signs of belief.*) All 41 workers trapped in tunnel rescued after 17 days: Indian officialsIndian workers have been greeted with wild cheers and flower garlands as rescuers safely brought out all 41 from the collapsed Himalayan road tunnel.With beaming smiles, the rescued men were welcomed as heroes after being hauled through 57 metres of steel pipe on stretchers specially fitted with wheels, where they were greeted by state officials before embracing their families.Crowds outside the tunnel cheered, as news spread that all had made it safely out of the under-construction tunnel in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand, where they had been trapped since a partial collapse on November 12.
) Hamas seeks to extend humanitarian pause in GazaPalestinian group Hamas has announced that it is seeking to extend the four-day humanitarian pause with Israel in Gaza.The group said in a statement that it is making serious efforts to secure the release of more Palestinians even after the pause ends.A Palestinian source who preferred to remain anonymous, as the person was not authorised to speak to the media, confirmed to Anadolu Agency that Hamas informed mediators Qatar and Egypt that the resistance movements were willing to extend the current truce by two to four days.) Israeli girl’s death brings army’s ‘Hannibal Protocol’ back into focusAn Israeli eyewitness said that during Hamas’s October 7 attack on southern Israel, the army surrounded a house containing members of the Palestinian group and Israelis and later opened fire with tank rounds, killing all of them.It appeared to be the latest implementation of the ‘Hannibal Protocol’, which involves the killing of enemy-held captives to prevent Israeli civilians from being taken to Gaza as hostages.Reports in Israeli media about the high number of civilian casualties during Hamas’s cross-border assault and Israeli military helicopters shooting both Palestinian fighters and civilians at a music festival near Gaza have led to debates on whether the army applied the ‘Hannibal Protocol’.) President Erdogan discusses Gaza with his Iranian counterpart RaisiIn a recent phone conversation, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi have discussed unlawful Israeli attacks on Palestine’s Gaza, humanitarian aid delivery for Palestinians, and potential steps to achieve a permanent ceasefire in the region.President Erdogan emphasised the importance of taking a common stance by particularly Türkiye and Iran, and Muslim world against Israeli atrocities and brutality in Palestinian lands.The leaders expressed their commitment to working together to turn the temporary ceasefire into a permanent one and achieving permanent peace in the region.) Ukraine calls for more air defence systems to protect grain corridorUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said his country needs more air defence systems in order to protect the grain corridor that has been operational since Russia’s withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative in July.“We have a positive response when these systems start to protect that region. Because both the corridor and the people there are important,” Zelenskyy said at a press briefing following the ‘Grain From Ukraine’ summit in Kiev.Ukraine has an agreement with several states for the escort of vessels by Ukrainian boats, he said, adding that the country is already receiving naval boats specifically for this purpose.And finally…*) Irish writer Paul Lynch wins Booker Prize with novel ‘Prophet Song’Irish writer Paul Lynch won the Booker Prize for fiction with what judges called a “soul-shattering” novel about a woman’s struggle to protect her family as Ireland collapses into totalitarianism and war.“Prophet Song”, set in a dystopian fictional version of Dublin, was awarded the 50,000-pound (about $63,000) literary prize at a ceremony in London. Canadian writer Esi Edugyan, who chaired the judging panel, said the book is “a triumph of emotional storytelling, bracing and brave” in which Lynch “pulls off feats of language that are stunning to witness”.
) Gaza truce starts after intense Israeli bombing, prisoner swap to followA four-day truce in Israel’s war on Gaza has started with hostages to be released in exchange for prisoners. It is the first major reprieve in seven weeks of conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.After prolonged negotiations, deliberations and delay, the pause was due to begin at 7:00 am (0500 GMT), silencing guns that have raged since Hamas’s attack on Israeli towns near Gaza on October 7.The start of the truce is set to be followed by the release of the first group of 13 hostages being held in Gaza, and - an undefined number of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails, according to Qatari peace brokers.) Egypt says 130,000 litres of diesel to be delivered daily to GazaEgypt has said that 130,000 litres of diesel and four trucks of gas will be delivered daily to Gaza with a four-day truce.Diaa Rashwan, the head of Egypt’s State Information Service (SIS), also said in a statement that 200 trucks of aid would enter Gaza daily.) Israeli military confirms Al Shifa Hospital chief held for questioningThe Israeli military has confirmed that the director of Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza had been held for questioning over allegations that the facility had been used as a command and control centre for Hamas.“In the hospital, under his management, there was extensive Hamas terrorist activity,” the Israeli ministry said in a statement, but offered no evidence.The Israeli army, which raided the hospital last week, has alleged that Hamas fighters used a tunnel complex beneath the facility in Gaza City to stage attacks. ) ECOWAS parliament seeks to lift sanctions on NigerThe parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) appeals to the bloc’s heads of state to lift the sanction imposed on Niger after the July 26 military coup.It said the people of Niger desire relief from economic hardship and humanitarian challenges, triggered by a ban on trade relations - and a freezing of the country’s accounts in regional central banks.“This is an appeal to the ECOWAS Heads of State to consider the humanitarian situation and resolve the political impasse in Niger,” Nigeria’s Senate chief Ali Ndume said.*) China reports no unusual or novel pathogens in respiratory illnesses upsurge — WHOChina has reported no “unusual or novel pathogens” in respiratory illnesses, spreading in the north of the country, the World Health Organization has said.The WHO said that Chinese authorities had responded, advising “that there has been no detection of any unusual or novel pathogens or unusual clinical presentations, including in Beijing and Liaoning.”It was a matter, the authorities said, of the “aforementioned general increase in respiratory illnesses due to multiple known pathogens.”
) US won’t allow expulsion of PalestiniansUS President Joe Biden has told Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi in a phone call that the US would not permit the forced relocation of Palestinians from besieged Gaza or the occupied West Bank, the White House said in a statement. It added that the US is also against the besiegement or redrawing of Gaza’s borders.“The President affirmed his commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state and recognised Egypt’s essential role in setting the conditions for that outcome,” the White House said.) US warns India as it thwarts plot to kill Sikh separatist leader in AmericaUnited States authorities have thwarted a plot to kill a Sikh (SEEK) separatist leader in America and issued a warning to India over concerns the right-wing government in New Delhi was involved, a senior official said.The US is treating the plot with utmost seriousness and has raised the issue with the Indian government “at the senior-most levels,” the White House said.US authorities raised concerns with New Delhi that the Indian government may have had knowledge of the plot, according to the official who was not authorised to comment on the sensitive matter.) Dutch anti-Islam Geert Wilders wins most votes with landslide marginFar-right, anti-Islam Geert Wilders has won the most votes in the Dutch election with a landslide margin, according to an exit poll.This puts him in line to lead talks to form a new ruling coalition and possibly become the country’s prime minister.The exit poll published by the national broadcaster NOS said Wilders’ Party for Freedom won 35 seats in the 150-seat lower house of parliament. This is more than double the 17 he won at the last election.If confirmed when votes are counted, a Wilders victory would send a seismic shock through European politics. ) OpenAI staff warned board of discovery ‘that could threaten humanity’ ahead of Sam Altman’s ousterAhead of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s ouster, several staff researchers sent the board of directors a letter warning of a powerful artificial intelligence discovery that they said could threaten humanity.This is according to two people familiar with the matter.The previously unreported letter and AI algorithm was a key development ahead of the board’s ouster of Altman, the poster child of generative AI, the two sources said.Before his triumphant return late on Tuesday, more than 700 employees had threatened to quit and join backer Microsoft in solidarity with their fired leader.And finally…*) Hollywood artists punished for supporting Palestine’s resistance to Israeli occupationOscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon and “Scream” star Melissa Barrera were each dropped by Hollywood companies after making pro-Palestinian comments on the Israel-Gaza war.Spyglass Media Group, the production company behind the upcoming “Scream VII,” acknowledged Barrera’s exit from the horror franchise.The Mexican-born actress, who starred in “In the Heights” and the two recent “Scream” installments, had posted statements on Instagram Stories calling the war “genocide and ethnic cleansing.” “Gaza,” she wrote, “is currently being treated like a concentration camp.”
) Hamas to release 50 captives; Israel to free 150 Palestinian women, childrenThe Israeli cabinet has approved a plan that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says will bring a temporary ceasefire with Palestinian resistance fighters in besieged Gaza.Hamas will free 50 Israeli captives over the course of four days, during which there will be a pause in the war, according to the Israeli prime minister’s office. Israel, as part of the truce, will release 150 Palestinian women and children languishing in Israeli jails.Qatar and the US have announced that the 4-day ceasefire will begin within the next 24 hours.) Gaza’s worsening sanitation situation signal ‘perfect storm for tragedy’: UNFuel shortages and worsening sanitation in the besieged Gaza are shaping up to be the perfect storm for tragedy through the spread of disease, the United Nations has warned.UNICEF, the UN children’s agency, said there was a serious threat of a mass disease outbreak in the occupied Palestinian territory.“Without enough fuel, we will see the collapse of sanitation services. So we have then, on top of the mortars and the bombs, a perfect storm for the spread of disease,” the UN agency said.) Jordan doesn’t rule out war with Israel if Palestinians are expelled en masseJordan has said the army had beefed up its presence along its borders with Israel. It warned that any Israeli attempt to expel Palestinians across the Jordan River would represent a breach of Jordan’s peace accord with its far-right neighbour.Jordanian Prime Minister said his country would resort to “all the means in its power” to prevent Israel from implementing any transfer policy to expel Palestinians en masse from the occupied West Bank.) Civilian death toll in Ukraine tops grim 10,000 mark: UN bodyMore than 10,000 civilians have been killed in Ukraine since Russia’s offensive started in February 2022, with about half of recent deaths occurring far behind the front lines, the UN Human Rights Office said.The UN human rights mission in Ukraine, which has dozens of monitors in the country, said it expects the real toll to be “significantly higher” than the official tally since corroboration work is ongoing.This includes events in the first months after the invasion, such as the battle for control of Mariupol, where residents reported high civilian casualties.*) Sam Altman to return as OpenAI CEOOpenAI has announced its co-founder Sam Altman will return as CEO, days after the board fired him.Altman's departure caused discontent in the tech giant company, and hundreds of OpenAI staff threatened to quit in response to the dismissal."I am looking forward to returning to OpenAI," Sam Altman said in a post on X.OpenAI on Monday named ex-Twitch boss Emmett Shear as interim CEO, while outgoing chief Sam Altman moved to backer Microsoft.
) Hamas leader says ‘close to reaching’ Gaza truce deal with IsraelHamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has said his resistance movement is nearing a truce agreement with Israel, according to a statement posted on Telegram.Negotiators have been working to seal a deal to allow the release of around 240 mostly Israeli hostages seized on October 7, during the deadliest assault on Israel in its history.Israel has been relentlessly bombing Palestine’s Gaza in the wake of the Hamas attack.) WHO official says Gaza hospital situation ‘catastrophic’A top World Health Organization official has described the hospital situation in Gaza as “catastrophic.” The official says most facilities are no longer functioning and what remains will likely be overwhelmed by thousands of births expected in the next month.Plans by the Israeli military to push further south, the WHO official added, would worsen health conditions even further.) Premature babies arrive in EgyptTwenty-nine premature babies have arrived in Egypt, local media said, after they were evacuated from Gaza’s largest hospital which has become a focal point of Israel’’s ground invasion.The infants were evacuated Sunday from the Al Shifa Hospital, which the World Health Organization has described as a “death zone” as Israel seeks to uncover what it claims are Hamas bases in tunnels underneath the facility.An initial 31 babies were reported evacuated from Al Shifa to another Gaza clinic and it was not immediately clear why only 29 arrived in Egypt.) Israeli ships are ‘legitimate targets’ anywhere, warn Yemen’s HouthisIsraeli ships are a “legitimate target,” Yemen’s Houthi rebels have warned after their seizure of an Israel-linked cargo vessel opened a new dimension in the Gaza war.“Israeli ships are legitimate targets for us anywhere ... and we will not hesitate to take action,” Major General Ali al Moshki, a Houthi military official, told the group’s Al Massirah TV station on Monday.The capture of the Galaxy Leader and its 25 international crew came days after the Houthis threatened to target Israeli shipping over the Israel-Palestine conflict.And finally…*) Oxfam Report: Rich elite’s carbon footprint equals two-thirds of the worldThe richest one percent of the global population is responsible for the same amount of carbon emissions as the world’s poorest two-thirds, or five billion people, according to an analysis published by the Oxfam International.While fighting the climate crisis is a shared challenge, not everyone is equally responsible and government policies must be tailored accordingly, Max Lawson, who co-authored the report, said.“The richer you are, the easier it is to cut both your personal and your investment emissions,” he said, adding: “You don’t need that third car or that fourth holiday, or you don’t need to be invested in the cement industry.”
) Israel shells Indonesian hospital in northern Gaza, kills manyAt least eight Palestinians were killed and dozens injured in Israeli army’s shelling of Indonesian Hospital and its surroundings in northern Gaza, medical sources said. The sources added that the Israeli army was firing live bullets at anyone moving outside the hospital’s door.The assault led to the extensive destruction of the facility, the sources said, adding that the death toll is increasing.) Colombia’s president slams Netanyahu, compares him to HerodColombia’s president said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a “crazy man” who is “killing many people” in Gaza in the style of Herod. Herod was the king of Judea who ordered the slaughter of innocents according to the Christian New Testament.Colombian President Gustavo Petro also criticised the US for supporting Israel’s war on Palestine’s Gaza, saying, “The Israeli capital owns American banking.” ) European outcry grows over Israel’s Gaza war, sparks widespread protestsPeople across Europe have continued to take to the streets to express solidarity with Palestine and condemn ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza.Braving rainy weather, some 2,000 people gathered in Amsterdam over the weekend, carrying Palestinian flags and chanting slogans including, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,” “Ceasefire now,” and “Stop genocide in Palestine.”A protester Cillia Ferrier maintained that what was happening in Palestine was apartheid, while another demonstrator, Bart, urged the Dutch government to stop Israel.) Turkish Center for Combating Disinformation rejects Israeli claim that Hamas killed innocent personA claim by Israel that the Palestinian group Hamas killed an innocent person based on images depicting an execution was not accurate, Türkiye’s Center for Combating Disinformation said.The centre, which falls under Türkiye’s Communications Directorate, said on X that the images in question were taken during the public execution of a drug trafficker in Iran in the year 2014.Meanwhile, Turkish Communications Director Fahrettin Altun said the centre has, since October 7, exposed over 100 international false news regarding Israel’s attacks on Gaza and revealed the truth.*) Australia beats India to win Cricket World Cup for sixth time as Head hits 137Australia won the cricket World Cup for a record-extending sixth time, ending India’s dominant run in its home tournament with a six-wicket victory in a low-scoring finale.A heavily pro-Indian crowd inside the 132,000-capacity Narendra Modi Stadium was silenced as Australia overpowered India by chasing down the target of 241.The victory has helped Australia regain its status as the kings of one-day international cricket, adding to its 50-over world titles in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2015.
) Thousands at Al Shifa Hospital ‘fighting death’Over 7,000 displaced people, patients, and medical staff at Al Shifa Hospital are “fighting death due to a lack of water and food” caused by the Israeli military blockade.There is “no food, water, or milk for infants at Al Shifa Hospital,” Gaza’s media office said on Telegram.It added that they “may lose a number of malnourished children at the hospital due to the power outage, leaving them without incubators.”) Blinken urges Israel to take action against settler violence in occupied West BankUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Israel to take “urgent” action to stop settler violence against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.Blinken made the plea in a telephone call with Benny Gantz, an opposition leader who joined Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s wartime cabinet.Blinken “stressed the urgent need for affirmative steps to de-escalate tensions in the [occupied] West Bank, including by confronting rising levels of settler extremist violence.” ) Heads of UN agencies reject unilateral proposals to create ‘safe zones’ in GazaThe leaders of a number of UN agencies and humanitarian organisations have said they will not take part in any “safe zones” in Gaza declared by Israel.The Inter-Agency Standing Committee said in a statement that they “will not participate in the establishment of any ‘safe zone’ in Gaza that is set up without the agreement of all the parties.”The committee added that under the current circumstances, any proposals to unilaterally establish “safe zones” are likely to harm civilians.) Turkish FM urges West to uphold moral values over Gaza brutalityTurkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has taken a tough stance on the ongoing Israeli attack on Gaza.He said, “being silent on Israel’s lawlessness in Gaza is tantamount to giving the green light to other lawlessness around the world.”Fidan called on the Western world “to uphold moral values and refrain from being complicit in the blatant violation of human rights in Gaza.”*) TikTok to ban viral videos promoting bin Laden’s ‘Letter to America’TikTok has said it will prohibit content that promotes Osama bin Laden’s 2002 letter detailing the former al Qaeda leader’s explanation for attacking America.The letter criticised US support for Israel and accused Americans of financing the “oppression” of Palestinians.TikTok said in a statement, “Content promoting this letter clearly violates our rules on supporting any form of terrorism,” adding that reports that it was “trending” on the platform were inaccurate.
) UNSC calls for 'humanitarian pauses' as Israel issues ultimatum for south Gaza residentsThe UN Security Council has called for "extended humanitarian pauses" in besieged Gaza, the first time it has broken its silence since the start of Israel’s brutal war on the blockaded Palestinian enclave.The resolution was prepared by Malta and adopted with 12 votes in favour. Three states abstained — the United States, Britain and Russia.The resolution "calls for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses and corridors throughout besieged Gaza for a sufficient number of days" to allow aid to reach civilians in the blockaded territory.) Israel raids Gaza’s Al Shifa Hospital for second timeThe Israeli army has attacked Gaza's largest hospital for the second time in two days and claimed it found weapons and a Hamas command centre.Hamas government denies the claim and Human Rights Watch says it cannot independently verify if Hamas was operating from within the Al Shifa compound. According to reports from inside Al Shifa, Israeli soldiers carried out search operations and interrogated patients and doctors. Meanwhile, the United States has denied giving Israel a green light for a raid on the hospital.) First fuel truck enters Gaza since October 7thA truck has delivered fuel to Gaza for the first time since fighting began on October 7th.It delivered around 23 thousand litres of fuel, but it's not nearly enough to bring any relief to Palestinians. Israel allowed the limited amount of fuel to enter on the condition it will be used only for UN aid trucks — not hospitals, water treatment plants or sewage pumping stations.) Russia alleges Ukraine officials embezzled 20-36% of Western aidMeanwhile in the war in Ukraine, Russia has claimed that 20 percent and 36 percent of all financial aid provided to Kiev by the West allies has been misappropriated by Ukrainian officials.Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova made the claim about “former senior officials of the Ukrainian Defence Ministry”, TASS news agency reported.Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia is "still capable of doing evil", saying they must keep the country's defence as a top priority.*) Biden, Xi restore military ties despite 'dictator' commentUS President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed to restore military communications at their first summit in a year.The four-hour talks between the leaders were aimed at preventing growing tensions between the world's largest economies from spiralling into conflict.However, the two remained far apart on the issue of Taiwan, with the Chinese president telling his US counterpart to stop arming the island and that reunification was "unstoppable."
) Israeli troops storm Gaza’s Al Shifa HospitalFollowing extensive attacks around the hospital, the Israeli army has stormed Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City.The head of the Al Shifa Medical Complex’s burns department, said in a press statement that Israeli tanks and bulldozers were now inside the complex.Meanwhile, the director general of Gaza hospitals, said that “not a single bullet was fired from inside the hospital during the occupation forces’ storming of the complex.”) Yemen’s Houthis threaten to attack Israeli ships in Red SeaYemen’s Houthi rebels have threatened to target Israeli ships in the Red Sea, as the group said they had launched another missile targeting the country over its war in Gaza.Rebel leader Abdul Malik al Houthi said the group was monitoring Israeli vessels in the commercially vital waters, even those that do not have Israeli flags.Al Houthi said his group is constantly “monitoring and searching for any Israeli ship.") Israel’s killing of women, babies in Gaza ‘has to stop’: CanadaCanadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has urged Israel to exercise maximum restraint for the protection of civilians in Gaza, saying that “the world is witnessing the killing of women, children, babies” and that “this has to stop.”Trudeau said the human tragedy in Gaza is heart-wrenching, citing the suffering in and around Al Shifa Hospital after Israel’s recent strikes. Trudeau added that the price of justice cannot be the continued suffering of all Palestinian civilians, adding that “even wars have rules. All innocent life is equal in worth, Israeli and Palestinian.”) Hundreds protest against Dutch government for supplying arms to IsraelHundreds of people gathered at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands to protest against the government for supplying arms to Israel.The demonstration in solidarity with Palestine later continued outside despite unfavourable weather conditions.The demonstrators also protested against politicians in the European Union and US for supporting Israel.And finally…*) Turkish academics issue global ‘Call for Responsibility’ against IsraelMore than 900 academics at various universities in Türkiye have condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza in a declaration.The academics said that the UN, which was founded to protect international peace and security, has failed to stop actions against humanity. It was emphasised that Israel continues to violate the basic rules and principles of law and its inhumane actions in Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories.
) Palestinian victims file ICC complaint over Israel’s Gaza massacresLawyers for the Palestinian victims of Israeli attacks on Gaza filed a complaint at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.The victims’ representative before the ICC, Gilles Devers, and a four-person delegation that accompanied him submitted the complaint to the court’s prosecutor.Devers asserted that Israeli acts in Gaza constitute factors of the crime of genocide.He emphasised that the ICC is currently investigating war crimes in a related inquiry, stressing the imperative of including the crime of genocide in this investigation.) Israel admits growing international pressure over its onslaught on GazaIsrael's foreign minister said international pressure on Israel would increase within two or three weeks over its onslaught on Gaza.Eli Cohen said that Israel has only two or three weeks before it loses its diplomatic battle on the international stage to stop the war on Gaza.He stressed, however, that the Israeli military invasion in Gaza will not stop until the Palestinian group Hamas is eliminated and the captives are released.) Jewish protesters, allies block Israeli consulate in Chicago, demand ceasefire in GazaHundreds of Jewish peace activists and their allies converged at a major train station in downtown Chicago during rush hour.They blocked the entrance to the Israeli consulate and demanded US support for an Israel ceasefire as war rages in Gaza.Over 100 protesters were arrested for misdemeanour trespassing and escorted out of the building, according to Ben Lorber, who helped organise the protest. ) EU says int’l community failed to find solution to Israeli-Palestinian conflictThe international community has failed to find a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as shown by its continuation, the European Union’s foreign policy chief said.Josep Borrell said “his tragedy should be an occasion for everyone to understand that a solution must be sought that can only be based on the construction of two states.”Saying that he put forward a proposal which participants of the meeting agreed to support, he summed it up as follows: No to forced displacement of Palestinian people out of Gaza, no re-occupation of Gaza by Israel, and no to the dissociation of Gaza from the overall issue of Palestine.And finally…*) Gaza hospitals 'out of service' as fuel shortages claim more livesHospitals in northern Gaza were forced out of service amid fuel shortages and intense combat, with the death toll inside the territory's largest facility rising, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza.Death toll inside Al Shifa hospital has risen to 27 adult intensive care patients and seven babies since the weekend as the facility suffered fuel shortages.At least 2,300 people including patients, health workers, and people fleeing fighting were inside the Al Shifa Hospital, The World Health Organisation in the Palestinian Territories said.
) "Freedom for Palestine": Thousands march across Europe for GazaHundreds of thousands of protesters across Europe have taken to the streets in solidarity with the Palestinian people in response to Israel's brutal bombardment of civilians in Gaza.Protesters gathered in Germany, France, UK, Sweden and Greece, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans such as "Freedom for Palestine", criticising the ongoing attitude of the Israeli government in Gaza.) Israel committing war crimes while the whole world watches: President ErdoganIsrael is committing "war crimes" in front of the whole world by targeting hospitals, schools, places of worship, mosques, churches, even ambulances carrying the sick and the dead, and refugee camps, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said. Asserting that the Western countries are only watching all these atrocities from the tribunes, Erdogan said that those with a conscience can't remain silent in the face of all this.Erdogan emphasised the importance of establishing a ceasefire, ending the clashes and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.) Hamas calls for swift intervention to allow fuel for Gaza hospitalsMeanwhile, Hamas has urged the UN and the international community to “immediately intervene to bring fuel into Gaza to operate hospitals.”It issued the statement in response to a claim by the Israeli army that the group had refused to receive fuel for Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza.Israel claimed that their army had provided Al Shifa Hospital with 300 litres of fuel but Hamas had prevented the hospital from receiving it, while Hamas described the statement as “a lie.”) Red Cross makes urgent call for protection of civilians in GazaThe International Committee of the Red Cross issued an urgent plea for the protection of civilians in Gaza.The committee said civilians are "trapped in fighting, whether they are trying to evacuate or staying where they are."The attacks are underway in densely populated areas and around hospitals which poses a risk to the lives of the most vulnerable people, the committee added.*) Amsterdam witnesses largest climate protest ever as Dutch election nearsTens of thousands of protesters have marched through Amsterdam demanding immediate action against the climate crisis, 10 days before the country holds a general election.Local police said around 70,000 people joined the march, including climate activist Greta Thunberg and former EU climate chief Frans Timmermans, who will lead the combined Labour and Green parties at the upcoming election.Organisers said the turnout was the largest ever at a climate protest in the Netherlands.
) Israel agrees to four-hour 'pauses' in Gaza attacks, Biden rules out truceIsrael has agreed to daily four-hour pauses in northern Gaza to let civilians flee, the White House said. US President Joe Biden said there was no chance of a full ceasefire but he has been pressing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for longer breaks in the fighting after more than a month of war on Gaza.In addition, the US State Department said that there will be two humanitarian corridors allowing people to evacuate areas of hostilities in northern Gaza.) Israel carries out air strikes near Gaza hospitalsAt least three hospitals in northern Gaza have come under attack early Friday, as Israeli air strikes continue across the enclave.The medical facilities included Gaza's biggest hospital, Al Shifa, where Israel without proof said Hamas has hidden command centres and tunnels.These attacks further stress the Palestinian enclave's precarious health system as it struggles to cope with thousands of people wounded or displaced in Israel's war on Gaza.) Israel does not seek to occupy Gaza: NetanyahuMeanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his country does not seek to conquer, occupy or govern Gaza after its war against Hamas.But he said a "credible force" would be needed to enter the Palestinian enclave if necessary to prevent the emergence of threats.Netanyahu said a civilian government would need to take shape in Israel-besieged Gaza but that Israel would make sure an attack like October 7 does not happen again.) Ukraine extends martial law, general mobilisation till FebruaryUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed two bills into law, extending martial law and general mobilisation in the country for an additional three months.The bills' status were updated on the online portal of Ukraine’s parliament, which said they were returned with Zelenskyy’s signature.Martial law was first declared by Zelenskyy immediately after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war last year in February, and has been extended several times since then.*) Toxic smog ravages eastern Pakistan, forcing closure of schools, markets, parksToxic grey smog has sickened tens of thousands of people in Pakistan’s cultural capital of Lahore, forcing authorities to shut schools, markets and parks for four days.The decision came on Thursday after the country's second-largest city was repeatedly ranked the world’s most polluted city. Doctors advised people to wear face masks and stay at home. Residents said many people were coughing and having breathing problems.
) Israel carries out air strikes near Gaza hospitalsAl Shifa Hospital in Gaza, which houses thousands of patients and refugees, has been targeted by Israeli missiles. This is according to Palestinian news agency WAFA.The simultaneous use of illumination flares during the attacks resulted in shrapnel damage to the hospital's surroundings.Another air strike near Al Nasr Children's Hospital in the western part of the city killed three Palestinians and left dozens more wounded.Meanwhile, Israeli artillery fired rounds towards the eastern part of the city of Rafah.) Israel's systematic bombing of housing in Gaza a 'war crime': UN expertAn independent United Nations expert has said the widespread and systematic bombardment of housing and civilian infrastructure in Gaza amounts to a war crime and a crime against humanity.The UN special rapporteur on the right to adequate housing said these moves by Israel are strictly prohibited under international law.A month of Israeli attacks on targets within Gaza have destroyed or damaged 45 percent of all housing units in the Palestinian territory.) G7 foreign ministers call for 'humanitarian pauses' in GazaMeanwhile, the G7 foreign ministers have issued a statement, supporting Israel's right to defend itself, while calling for humanitarian pauses in the fighting. After meeting in Tokyo, the diplomats repeated their support for Israel's self-defence and its goal of removing Hamas. But they also insisted there must be pauses in fighting to allow critical humanitarian aid into Gaza. The US and UK oppose the long-term Israeli occupation of Gaza. But US State Secretary Antony Blinken suggests a transition period may follow the end of the war. ) Russia strikes civilian ship in Ukraine's Odessa harbour In other news, Ukrainian officials have said Russia fired a missile at a civilian ship entering a port in the Black Sea region of Odessa.One harbour worker was killed and several crew members injured. Previously, civilian ships were guaranteed safe passage under the Türkiye-brokered grain deal but it collapsed in July. Since then, Ukraine and Russia have been increasing their military activities in the Black Sea.*) China says climate talks with US a successChina has said that climate talks with the United States were a success.The talks between top officials aimed at strengthening cooperation between the world's two largest greenhouse gas emitters.This comes ahead of a meeting between US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping next week, as the two powers seek to improve ties after years of frosty relations.
) Israel agrees on 'little pauses' over Gaza strikes — NetanyahuIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel was open to “little pauses” in its bombardments.It was not clear whether some kind of small stoppage had been agreed to or whether the US was satisfied with the scope of the Israeli commitment.US President Joe Biden had raised the need for humanitarian pauses, but there was no agreement reached, according to the White House.Netanyahu also underlined that there would be no general ceasefire in Gaza, without the release of the hostages.) Gaza death toll exceeds grim 10,000 mark as Israeli onslaught continuesThe death toll in Gaza exceeded 10,000 after one month of Israeli bombardment, the Health Ministry in the besieged enclave has said, as the offensive against the Palestinians showed signs of intensifying.Hundreds of overnight strikes pushed the death toll to 10,022, mostly women and children, a spokesperson for the Palestinian Health Ministry, told a press conference on Monday afternoon.The toll included 4,104 children and 2,641 women, according to the ministry. ) Israel minister's Gaza nuclear comment was wholly unacceptable: USThe United States has condemned as "wholly unacceptable" comments by an Israeli cabinet member who appeared to voice openness to the idea of Israel carrying out a nuclear strike on Gaza."We continue to believe that it is important for all sides of this conflict to refrain from hateful rhetoric," deputy State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel told a media briefing.Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday disciplined the cabinet member in question.) 118 aid trucks enter Gaza through Rafah crossing Palestine Red Crescent Society has announced that it had received 118 aid trucks through the Rafah border crossing, bringing the total number of trucks that entered Gaza since October 21 to 569.They said the trucks contained “food, water, relief assistance, medical supplies and medications, while fuel has not been allowed to enter as of now.”*) Russia officially withdraws from European armed forces treatyRussia has formally withdrawn from a key post-Cold War security treaty designed to de-escalate potential East-West conflicts, in a latest sign of rising tensions between Russia and NATO.The 1990 treaty, negotiated and concluded at the end of the Cold War and signed a year after the fall of the Berlin Wall, placed limits on the deployment of military equipment to maintain military balance between NATO and the then-Warsaw Pact countries.Russia suspended its participation in the treaty in 2007 and halted active participation in 2015.
) Israel intensifies Gaza strikes despite ceasefire callsIsrael has pounded Gaza with "significant" strikes, ignoring ceasefire calls by UN aid agencies who condemned surging civilian deaths in the month-long conflict.Reporters in Gaza say Sunday night saw one of the heaviest, if not the heaviest, Israeli bombardment since the conflict began. For a third time, communications and internet services in the Palestinian enclave have been shut down. There are also reports of heavy shelling in the vicinity of several hospitals across the North. Israel's army claims it has now split Gaza in half, taking control of the areas to the north and south of Gaza City, and effectively encircling the area that holds the headquarters of Hamas. ) Israeli army conducts raids in Nablus and occupied East JerusalemMeanwhile, in the occupied West Bank and in occupied East Jerusalem, there have been reports of overnight clashes as the Israeli military continues its raids in Palestinian majority areas.According to the Palestinian WAFA agency, the Israeli forces entered the city of Tubas, accompanied by a military bulldozer. The soldiers fired live ammunition, tear gas, and sound grenades during confrontations that left two people injured. The Israeli forces also arrested two Palestinian leaders in the town of Anata as they were giving live interviews.) US Secretary of State Blinken to meet Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan Top US diplomat Antony Blinken has arrived in the Turkish capital Ankara, following inconclusive talks with his Arab and Israeli counterparts He is due to meet with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in the coming hours to discuss regional issues and bilateral relations.Since the conflict began, Blinken has supported the Israeli position while trying to assure regional players that Washington is focused on relieving humanitarian suffering.) Arab world denounces Israeli minister’s remarks calling for ‘nuking Gaza'The Arab world has issued statements condemning remarks by an Israeli minister on using a "nuclear bomb" against Gaza.Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu said on Sunday “one of Israel’s options in the war in Gaza is to drop a nuclear bomb on the Strip,” according to The Times of Israel.In response, Egypt, Kuwait, UAE, Jordan and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation condemned the remarks, saying it “reflects extremism and hate speech”.*) Stage set for conflict at COP28 with mixed response to outcome of key climate talksThe final meeting on a climate-related loss and damages fund has ended in Abu Dhabi, with participants agreeing that the World Bank would temporarily host the fund for the next four years.The US and several countries expressed disappointment in the draft agreement, which will be sent for global leaders to sign at the COP28 climate conference in Dubai later this month.While acknowledging that an agreement on the fund is better than a stalemate, climate policy analysts say there are still numerous gaps that must be filled if the fund is to be effective.
) Israeli troops gather around Gaza City, kill several Palestinians in occupied West BankIsraeli ground troops encircled Gaza City in their invasion of Gaza, as top US diplomat Antony Blinken arrived in Israel.The Israeli army announced that four more Israeli soldiers had been killed in overnight fierce fighting in Gaza with Palestinian fighters.And in the occupied West Bank, Palestinian medical sources said eight Palestinians were killed in separate incidents overnight.) EU prevention of pro-Palestine rallies shows double standardThe prevention of pro-Palestinian rallies in some European Union countries constitutes a "double standard," Türkiye's foreign minister has said at a meeting organised by the German Foreign Ministry in Berlin.Minister Hakan Fidan was quoted as saying "Those who allow attacks on our Holy Book, the Quran, under the guise of freedom of expression are blocking those who want to protest the brutal killing of civilians in Palestine." He added that it “is an unacceptable double standard.") Tunisia postpones vote on law criminalising relations with IsraelTunisia’s parliament postponed voting on a draft law that would criminalise the normalisation of relations with Israel.The decision was made during an evening session of the legislative assembly, according to Parliament Speaker Ibrahim Bouderbela.Parliament started discussions over the proposed law in August.) MSF: Greece 'normalised' illegal pushbacks of asylum seekersDoctors Without Borders accused Kyriakos Mitsotakis' government, stating that Greece has "normalised" abusive pushbacks of asylum seekers within a broader European Union policy that disregards violence against vulnerable individuals in a statement.The organisation also said in a report that MSF teams have borne witness to how normalised pushbacks have become, and to the stark absence of protection for people who seek safety in Greece.) Air pollution in India's New Delhi turns 'severe'People in New Delhi woke up to a thick layer of toxic haze, and some schools were ordered to be shut for two days as the air quality index entered the "severe" category in several parts of the Indian capital.Residents complained of irritation in the eyes and itchy throats with the air turning a dense grey as the AQI hovered around 480 in some monitoring stations in the city. ) Egypt's Bassem Youssef slams Gaza deportation planAn Egyptian heart surgeon turned comedian has criticised a leaked proposal by Israel to forcibly deport Palestinians from the besieged Gaza to Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, asking why Europe, which has 44 countries, or 50 states of US "take the Israelis" to end the Middle East's protracted conflict.Bassem Youssef said the Israeli proposal of forcible transfer of some 2.3 million Palestinians of Gaza to Sinai was "the worst possible solution", in an interview with British TV host Piers Morgan.
) Israel strikes Gaza refugee camp again as UN warns of 'war crimes'Israel has hit Gaza's largest refugee camp with renewed air strikes, prompting UN rights officials to warn that targeting densely populated residential areas "could amount to war crimes."Bombs struck the Jabalia camp for a second time in two days, pulverising buildings and, according to the Palestinian health ministry, killing dozens of people.The UN's top human rights body — citing "the high number of civilian casualties" and scale of destruction — said it had "serious concerns that these are disproportionate attacks that could amount to war crimes."The Health Ministry in Gaza has reported that over 1,000 people were killed by Israeli strikes in the camp.) Latin America ramps up condemnations of Israel's attack on GazaSome of Latin America's biggest countries have condemned Israel's attacks on a densely populated refugee camp in Gaza, widening the diplomatic rift between the region and Tel Aviv.Argentina, Peru and Mexico lambasted the Israeli attacks, which the Gaza government said had killed more than a thousand people while hundreds others were wounded or unaccounted for under the debris.The criticisms come a day after Bolivia cut diplomatic ties with Israel while Colombia and Chile recalled their ambassadors to the country.) US top diplomat to begin new Mideast tour amidst Israel's Gaza attacksUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken is returning to the Middle East with a somewhat more nuanced message than he offered in the immediate aftermath of Hamas’ October 7 operation.As he did last month, Blinken is expected to stress US support to Israel.Blinken's agenda this time is more complex as the conflict intensifies and the Biden administration grapples with competing domestic and international interests and anger.) Deadly Russian attacks in eastern Ukraine damage Kherson city centreA Russian attack on Kherson in eastern Ukraine killed one person and caused serious damage in the city's centre, the region's governor said, and a Russian drone strike killed another civilian in the frequently targeted city of Nikopol.The attack on Kherson, which Russian forces seized early in the conflict but then abandoned a year ago, also wounded two people. *) TRT Director-General Sobaci is elected as the president of the world's largest broadcast unionTRT Director-General Mehmet Zahid Sobaci has been elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) during the 60th General Assembly of the union.It is the world's largest broadcasting union with approximately 3.5 billion viewers and 246 members from 65 countries."My election as the President of ABU is significant for Türkiye’s goal of becoming a leading country in all fields,” said Sobaci, adding that the ABU presidency is especially gratifying as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Republic.
) Rafah crossing to Egypt opens for the first time since war beganScores of foreign passport holders trapped in Gaza started leaving the war-torn territory as the Rafah crossing to Egypt opened for the first time since the Israeli war on Gaza began on October 7, AFP correspondents reported.Convoys of desperately needed aid have passed between Egypt and Gaza but no people have been allowed to cross.Some 400 foreigners and dual nationals along with some 90 sick and wounded were expected to leave.) One year on: Despite peace holding on, many Tigrayans struggle to find their feetOne year after Ethiopia signed a peace deal with the Tigray People's Liberation Front, ending a brutal conflict that killed hundreds of thousands by some estimates, life in the northern region is slowly limping back to normal.But many Tigrayans say that they were struggling to find their feet after the November 2022 peace agreement, some losing their homes and livelihoods to the war, others grieving family members killed in the conflict.A million people remain displaced across the region, according to the International Organization for Migration, with around 234,000 in Tigray's capital Mekele.) Bolivia severs ties with Israel as Colombia, Chile recall envoys over GazaBolivia has said it had broken diplomatic ties with Israel because of its attacks on Gaza, while neighbours Colombia and Chile recalled their ambassadors to the Middle Eastern country for consultations.The three countries called for a ceasefire, with Bolivia and Chile pushing for the passage of humanitarian aid into the zone and accusing Israel of violating international law.In response, Israel slammed Bolivia's decision to cut diplomatic ties over its war in Gaza after a deadly Hamas attack as a capitulation to "terror".Other Latin American countries, such as Mexico and Brazil, have also called for a ceasefire.) Live blog: Ukraine reports most extensive Russian shelling this yearUkraine has said that Russia had shelled more than 100 settlements over the last 24 hours - more than in any single day so far this year.Moscow has fired millions of shells on cities, towns and villages along the frontlines since it launched its offensive last February, reducing several across the eastern part of the country to rubble."Over the last 24 hours, the enemy shelled 118 settlements in 10 regions. This is the highest number of cities and villages that have come under attack since the start of the year," Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klymenko said in a post on social media.And finally…*) Saudi ready for summer or winter World Cup in 2034: FA chiefSaudi Arabia is prepared to host the 2034 World Cup in summer or winter, its football chief said, after the oil giant became the sole bidder for the tournament."Of course, we are ready for all possibilities," Saudi Arabian Football Federation president Yasser al Misehal said late on Tuesday at the Asian Football Confederation awards in Doha.Saudi Arabia's successful bid, just 27 days after announcing it, comes less than a year after neighbouring Qatar held the first winter World Cup, a decision that forced a pause to league competitions in Europe.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, October 31st.) Israel’s ‘concept paper’ suggests expulsion of Palestinians in Gaza to Egypt’s SinaiAn Israeli government ministry has drafted a wartime proposal to transfer 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza to Egypt’s Sinai peninsula, drawing condemnation from Palestine and worsening tensions with Cairo.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office played down the report compiled by the Intelligence Ministry as a hypothetical exercise — a “concept paper.”But its conclusions deepened long-standing Egyptian concerns that Israel wants to make Gaza into Egypt's problem, and revive for Palestinians memories of their greatest trauma — the Nakba in 1948.) Israeli army detonates house of Hamas deputy leader in occupied West BankIsraeli forces detonated the house of Hamas deputy leader Saleh al Arouri in the occupied West Bank, according to witnesses.Israeli forces raided the town of Arura northwest of Ramallah and searched al Arouri’s house, a witness told Anadolu Agency.Israel blames Al Arouri for attacks against Israeli targets in the occupied West Bank. ) Aid distribution centres halt work as civil order breaks down in Gaza: UNA breakdown in civil order has put four UN aid distribution centres and a storage facility out of action in Gaza as people search desperately for food and water. A UN Palestinian refugee agency official said a logistics base at the Rafah border crossing vital to aid distribution had become increasingly difficult to operate because 8,000 people were sheltering at it.“With the breakdown of civil order, every day now we’ve got hundreds of people trying to get into the warehouses to steal flour,” the official said.) UN warns of Syria danger, ‘spillover’ from Israel’s war on GazaThe UN has warned that Syria was at its “most dangerous” point in a long time as violence surges and the “spillover” from Israel's war on Gaza starts to have an impact.Syria has “seen growing instability and violence, exacerbated by the lack of a meaningful political process,” Geir Pedersen, UN special envoy for Syria, told the Security Council.Pedersen sounded “alarm that the situation is now at its most dangerous for a long time.”And finally…*) Türkiye condemns in strongest terms Israel’s attack on Turkish-Palestinian Friendship HospitalTürkiye has condemned in strongest terms Israel’s attack on the Gaza Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, the only cancer hospital in the besieged enclave.“There can be no justification for such an attack carried out despite all necessary information, including the coordinates of the institution was previously shared with the Israeli authorities,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.The ministry added that “the siege in Gaza, aimed at depriving the Palestinian people of their most basic rights, and these inhumane attacks, clearly violate international law.”And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Israeli tanks enter Gaza from east and northIsraeli tanks have attempted to enter Gaza in an effort to cut a vital road from the north to the south in the war-torn Palestinian territory, as part of their ground invasion.Witnesses reported sightings of tanks in the Zaytun district, where Israelis aimed to sever the Salah al Din (Salah Addin) road and are firing at any vehicle attempting to use it.Israel's chief military spokesperson, Daniel Hagari, stated during a regular press briefing that they are advancing gradually into Gaza and plan to escalate the offensive, based on the phases and goals of the war.But the Israeli forces encountered Palestinian fighting groups on the key road and subsequently withdrew from the area, according to a Hamas spokesman.) Israel: Over 600 Gaza targets hit in 24 hoursIsrael's military has said it had struck more than 600 targets in Gaza in one day, making it one of the heaviest bombardments yet in its attacks on the Palestinian enclave."We have hit more than 600 targets in the past 24 hours," a military spokesperson told AFP, a rise of 450 targets reported on Sunday.According to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza, the death toll in the enclave since October 7 has reached 8,306, including 3,457 children and 2,136 women. 21,048 people also have been wounded by Israeli bombardments. ) ICC prosecutor says hindering Gaza aid could be a crimeThe International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor has warned that blocking humanitarian aid from entering Gaza could constitute a crime.ICC prosecutor Karim Khan told reporters in Cairo that “impeding relief supplies as provided by the Geneva Conventions may constitute a crime within the court jurisdiction.”He was speaking after a visit to Egypt’s Rafah crossing, where he said trucks full of desperately needed goods remained stuck and unable to cross into Gaza.) 47 mosques, 3 churches damaged in Gaza since October 7Continuous Israeli attacks on Gaza have led to the destruction of 47 mosques and damage to three churches, the local government media office said.The director of the office, Salama Maarouf, told a press conference that “Israeli raids on Gaza have caused the destruction of 47 mosques and damaged three churches and 203 schools in addition to 80 government buildings.”He said the number of medical personnel killed by Israel had reached 116 along with 18 members of rescue teams and civil defense crews and 35 journalists.*) Turkish Republic embarks on the Century of Türkiye: President ErdoganAs celebrations marked the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Türkiye is experiencing “a unique pride and excitement.”President Erdogan delivered his Centenary address on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye in Istanbul on Sunday.It followed the special parade by Turkish Stars, SOLOTURK and TCG Anadolu-led 100 warships’ crossing the Istanbul Strait.
) Some 3,000 children in Gaza killed by Israel: Palestine's UN envoySome 3,000 children have been killed by Israel since the attacks it launched on October 7, Palestine's UN envoy has said."I repeat, 3,000 children, innocent children, angels killed in Gaza during the last three weeks," Riyad Mansour said in an emotional address to an emergency UN General Assembly session on the Israel-Palestine conflict."There is no time to mourn, more death is on the way," Mansour warned.Mansour said 7,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli attacks in Gaza, saying that fully 70 percent of all those killed are women and children."Is this the war some of you are defending? These are crimes. This is barbarism. If you don’t stop it for all those who were killed, stop it for all those whose lives we can still save," he implored.Some 1,600 Palestinians still lie under the rubble, killed or injured and no one can reach them, to save them or bury them, he said.) Almost 50 hostages killed so far from Israeli bombings on Gaza — HamasHamas's armed wing has said that "almost 50" Israeli hostages held by the group in Gaza have been killed by the Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory."Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in Gaza as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50," the group said in a statement on Thursday issued on its Telegram channel.Israel launched a massive air and artillery bombardment of Gaza after Hamas carried out a brutal attack on Israel on October 7.Earlier, the Israeli army said 224 people were abducted by Hamas during the attack that left 1,400 people dead.) Humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza amid total Israeli siege: UNThe UN agency providing aid to Palestinian civilians in besieged Gaza warned it may have to shut down operations shortly if no fuel reaches the enclave, amid an increasingly desperate need for shelter, water, food and medical services.The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees UNRWA said it urgently needed fuel to maintain life-saving humanitarian operations in the Palestinian enclave that has been under Israeli bombardment for almost three weeks."If fuel is not received into Gaza, UNRWA will be forced to significantly reduce and in some cases bring its humanitarian operations across Gaza to a halt. The coming 24 hours are very critical," it said.) Global oil prices rise over $1 as Israel intensifies attacks on PalestineOil prices rose by over $1 on Friday as reports that the US military struck Iranian targets in Syria raised concerns of a widening of the Israel-Hamas conflict that could impact supply from the key Middle East producing region.Brent crude futures for December rose $1.16, or 1.3 percent, to $89.09 a barrel by 0338 GMT. The US West Texas Intermediate contract for December climbed $1.08 , also 1.3 percent, to $84.29 a barrel.Though the strike did not directly impact supply, it increases fears that the conflict in Gaza between Israel, backed by the US, and Hamas may spread and disrupt supply from major crude producer Iran.A wider war could also impact shipments from Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, and other large producers in the Gulf.*) Malaysia to warn TikTok, Meta over blocking of pro-Palestinian contentMalaysia's communications regulator will issue a warning to social media firms Tiktok and Meta for allegedly blocking pro-Palestinian content on their platforms, its communications minister said."If this issue is ignored, I will not hesitate to take a very firm approach and stance," Fahmi Fadzil said on Thursday in a posting on X, formerly known as Twitter.Without elaborating, Fahmi said many parties had urged the government to take firm action against social media platforms for allegedly restricting pro-Palestinian content.Representatives of Tiktok and Meta did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
) Israeli forces launch 'relatively large' land incursions in Gaza: armyThe Israeli army has carried out a "targeted raid" overnight in northern Gaza with tanks and infantry, it said in a statement, as the country prepares its forces for a ground invasion."Overnight, the IDF conducted a targeted raid using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of preparations for the next stages of combat," the army said in a statement."The soldiers exited the area at the end of the activity.") Altun: Israeli strike that killed family of Al Jazeera's Gaza reporter 'alarming'Türkiye has condemned the Israeli strikes against Palestinian journalists in Gaza and their families following the killing of an Al Jazeera reporter's family members."We are shocked by yet another incident against news professionals, where the house of an Al Jazeera reporter, Wael Al Dahdouh, was destroyed by an Israeli strike." Türkiye's Communications Director Fahrettin Altun said in a post on social media platform X late Wednesday.Altun expressed condolences and deepest sympathies to Dahdouh.He added, "We find it difficult to believe that this was random as Israel has been trying to stop the truth coming out from Gaza. These kinds of attacks amount to employing terror tactics against journalists to silence them.") Serbia, Türkiye to improve ties, continue talks for Kosovo: President VucicSerbian President Aleksandar Vucic has said his government will continue to work to develop relations with Türkiye and the continuation of political dialogue.“We have demonstrated the highest level of relations between the two countries in modern history,” Vucic wrote on social media on Wednesday after meeting Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler.Vucic emphasised that Guler's visit to Belgrade has extreme importance, saying: “The visit will prove an additional contribution to the very important role that Serbia and Türkiye play in maintaining peace and stability throughout the Balkans.”) Multiple fatalities, injuries in Maine shooting, gunman still at largeAt least 22 people were killed and several were injured in shootings in the city of Lewiston, Maine, local officials reported, with police saying that the gunman was still at large.City Councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN that the death toll had risen to 22 in the shooting spree that took place at a bowling alley and also at least one other location, a local restaurant and bar, according to media.Local police posted a photo of the shooter on Facebook carrying what appeared to be a semi-automatic style weapon inside the bowling alley.*) UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones injured, title fight at MSG vs. Stipe Miocic called offJon Jones and Stipe Miocic will no longer fight for the UFC heavyweight championship next month in New York after Jones tore a pectoral tendon off the bone during training.UFC President Dana White said Jones was injured during a training session on Monday. The heavyweight champion needs surgery and will be out at least eight months, throwing out the anticipated main event of UFC 295 on Nov. 11 at Madison Square Garden.White said Sergei Pavlovich and Tom Aspinall will fight for the interim heavyweight title. The light heavyweight title fight between Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira was bumped to the main event.
) UN chief says Hamas blitz 'didn't happen in a vacuum', riling IsraelUN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has rankled Israel at the United Nations Security Council meeting in which he stressed the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel "did not happen in a vacuum”.Opening the session on Tuesday, Guterres said there was no excuse for the operation by Hamas on Israeli settlements but also warned against "collective punishment" of the Palestinians.He then said Hamas operation "did not happen in a vacuum" as the Palestinians have been "subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation."His remarks infuriated Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen.) UNSC deepening crisis in Gaza with one-sided approach: President ErdoganThe International community is failing in the face of Israel's lawless and indiscriminate attacks on civilians in Palestine's Gaza, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.In his message on the 78th anniversary of the United Nations, Erdogan thanked those working under its framework for peace and justice in the world.He said a party that is a bystander to "collective punishment" of the people in Gaza cannot offer hope to humanity, and ensure peace, stability) Biden's Israel support angers Muslim Americans; could jeopardise 2024 votesMuslim Americans and their allies are criticising President Joe Biden's response to the Israeli war on Gaza, asking him to do more to prevent a humanitarian crisis in the blockaded enclave or risk losing their support in the 2024 election.Many Arab Americans and Muslim Americans are upset Biden has not pushed for any humanitarian ceasefire even as Palestinians are being killed by Israel's bombardment of besieged Gaza.In hotly contested Michigan, Arab Americans account for 5 percent of the vote. In other battleground states, Pennsylvania and Ohio, they are between 1.7 percent to 2 percent, said Jim Zogby, president of the Arab American Institute.Biden won Michigan with 50.6 percent of the vote in 2020, compared to 47.8 percent for Trump, and Pennsylvania with 50.01 percent to Trump's 48.84 percent, a difference of less than 81,000 votes.) US is world's 'biggest disruptor' of peace — ChinaThe United States is the "biggest disruptor of regional peace and stability" in the world, China has said in a scathing response to a Pentagon report on China's growing military buildup."The US has sent depleted uranium munitions and cluster bombs to Ukraine, sent its carrier battle groups to the Mediterranean and weapons and munitions to Israel, is this the so-called 'gospel' the 'human rights defender is bringing to the area?" said Wu Qian, the spokesperson for China's Defence Ministry.*) Netflix and Spielberg combine for 'binge watch' story of life on Earth"Life on Our Planet," the new natural history series from Netflix and Steven Spielberg, sets out to tell the entire, dramatic story of life on Earth in a serialised, "binge-watch" format.Streaming globally from Wednesday, the show's eight episodes transport viewers through Earth's five previous mass extinction events, each recreated with computer-generated visual effects.Aside from a series of cliffhanger finales, "Life on Our Planet" finds dramatic tension with a series of ordinary, loveable underdogs who "win" evolution against the odds — at least for a few hundred million years.
1) Israeli overnight strikes kill at least 110 Palestinians in GazaAt least 110 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks overnight across Gaza, marking the 18th day of Israel’s war on the besieged enclave.Deaths and injuries were reported in Israeli airstrikes on residential buildings in Rafah and Khan Younis in southern Gaza.Israeli strikes also targeted houses next to Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital and apartments west of the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza.The Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza was also targeted, according to Al Aqsa satellite channel.Palestinian group Hamas claims that 140 people were killed overnight.2) Health Ministry in Gaza warns all electric generators at hospitals will soon stop workingThe Health Ministry in Gaza has warned that electric generators in hospitals will cease functioning within the next 48 hours due to a fuel shortage.Ministry spokesman Ashraf Al-Qudra said the mechanism followed to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza is "slow and cannot change the reality," stressing that "the healthcare system has reached the worst stage in its history."Earlier on Monday, the ministry said that 32 health centres are out of service due to targeting by Israeli warplanes and the fuel shortage.3) Six UN refugee agency workers killed in Gaza in 24 hoursSix workers with the United Nation's Palestinian refugee agency have been killed in just 24 hours in Israel-besieged Gaza, the global body has said, bringing to 35 the total of its staff killed since October 7.Humanitarian and aid workers have not been spared in more than two weeks of relentless Israeli bombardment on Gaza.In an update sent Tuesday on the situation up to Monday evening, the UN’s humanitarian agency said at least 16 health workers have been killed while on duty, along with 35 UNRWA staff since the start of hostilities. ) US weapons, staff rush to Israel as ground invasion of Gaza loomsThe Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel and is speeding multiple sophisticated air defence systems ahead of an anticipated ground invasion of Palestine's Gaza.One of the officers leading the assistance is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who previously led special operations forces against Daesh and served in Iraq, according to a US official. ) Israeli army launches arrest campaign at dawn on Tuesday in Ramallah, West BankThe Israeli army has launched an arrest campaign at dawn in Ramallah city of the occupied West Bank, according to Palestinian news agency WAFA. Israeli forces have cracked down on the occupied West Bank after beginning air strikes on Gaza in retaliation for the October 7 attacks launched by Hamas into Israel. Over the past two weeks, according to officials and rights groups, Israel has arrested some 4,000 labourers from Gaza who were working in Israel. Separately, it has also arrested 1,070 other Palestinians in overnight army raids in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.As of Tuesday, October 24, Israeli forces have killed at least 95 Palestinians across the occupied West Bank.
) Israel kills 400 Palestinians in one dayAt least 400 Palestinians have been killed in intensified Israeli attacks on besieged Gaza.Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that according to medical sources, 70 percent of the death toll was women, children and elderly.Death toll of women in Israeli airstrikes has reached over 1,000 and forced displacement stands at about half a million others, according to the media office of Gaza administration.Over 4,600 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since Israel began its bombardment on October 7. ) 120 incubated newborns’ lives are at risk as fuel runs out in Gaza’s hospitalsThe UN children's agency has warned that the lives of at least 120 newborn babies on incubators in Gaza’s hospitals are at risk as fuel runs out.Health care workers have warned that a dire lack of medicine, fuel and water is about to turn Gaza into a mass graveyard after Israel sealed the territory off.Palestinian Health Ministry reported Israeli strikes have already killed more than 1,750 children in retaliation for the October 7 Hamas attacks.) Israel's 'unusual weapons' against Palestinians cause severe burnsGaza’s Health Ministry has said Israel has been using “unusual weapons” that cause severe burns to the bodies of victims.Ministry spokesman Ashraf al Qudra stated that “medical staff monitored the usage of unusual weapons that caused severe burns to the bodies of the martyrs and wounded.” Al Qudra also warned 1,000 patients could die due to kidney failure if fuel supplies are not made available to hospitals and the healthcare sector.) Cairo's 'Summit for Peace' ends without any breakthrough on Gaza ceasefireMuslim, Arab and Western countries came together in Egypt’s capital Cairo to find a solution for the ongoing conflict in Palestine’s Gaza.Dubbed "Summit for Peace", the meeting was meant to be a diplomatic solution for a ceasefire but ended with no breakthrough."The disagreement was over condemning Israel, which Western states refused to do," an Arab official said.Instead, they sought a statement that placed "responsibility for the escalation on Hamas", which Arab states refused, according to an Arab diplomat.*) Turkish presidential plane arrives in Cairo with medical aid for GazaA Turkish presidential plane carrying vital medical equipment for Palestine’s Gaza has touched down in Egypt’s capital Cairo.According to Türkiye’s Health Ministry, a group of 20 healthcare experts and doctors were also on board.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, October 20th.) Israel targets Gaza churchAt least two women have been killed and many other civilians wounded in an Israeli attack on Saint Porphyrius Greek Orthodox Church in besieged Gaza, the Palestinian news agency WAFA said.Palestinian Interior Ministry reported multiple casualties, calling it a "new massacre". The ministry said several displaced people had taken shelter at the church compound when Israeli warplanes targeted it.The strike left a "large number of martyrs and injured" at the compound, the ministry said.) Israeli defence minister tells troops to prepare for ground assault in GazaIsrael’s defence minister has told ground troops to be ready to enter Gaza, though he did not say when the invasion will start.In a meeting with Israeli infantry soldiers on the Gaza border on Thursday, Yoav Gallant urged the forces to "get organised, be ready" for an order to move in.Whoever sees Gaza from afar now will see it from the inside," he said. "I promise you."Shortly after Gallant's statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a video of himself with troops near the border promising victory.) US Muslim group faces death threats over event to highlight Gaza crisisA major US Muslim civil rights group planning to highlight rampant human rights violations of Palestinians by Israel is moving its annual event out of a Virginia hotel after anonymous threats to bomb the venue.“We strongly condemn the extreme and disgusting threats against our organisation, the Marriott hotel and its staff," CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad, who is Palestinian American, said in a statement.) Turkish league matches to start with minute's silence in solidarity with PalestineThe Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has announced that a moment of silence for Palestine will be held before this week's league matches.The federation also said the players will appear on the field wearing black armbands.The war in Gaza, which has been under Israeli bombardment and a blockade since 2007, began on October 7 when the Palestinian group Hamas initiated Operation Al Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltration into Israel by land, sea and air.The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in Gaza.And finally…*) Biden tries to rally Americans on Israel, Ukraine supportUS President Joe Biden has delivered a rare Oval Office speech urging Americans to back military aid for Israel and Ukraine at what he called a perilous moment for democracy around the globe, as Israel readied troops for a ground invasion of besieged Gaza.Fresh from a trip to Israel after the October 7 surprise Hamas operation on Israeli settlements, the Democratic president's primetime address on Thursday to the nation, pitched the case for a global US role to war-weary voters and isolationist Republicans.Biden sought to link the Hamas resistance group in Gaza to Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose forces invaded Ukraine."Hamas and Putin represent different threats, but they share this in common: They both want to annihilate a neighbouring democracy," he said.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Seven children among civilians killed in fresh Israeli strikes on GazaAt least seven children were among several civilians killed in an Israeli air strike on a house close to a school sheltering displaced people in southern Gaza.The official WAFA news agency reported that Israeli warplanes struck a home in the Khan Younis refugee camp besides other sites in the besieged enclave.“This is a massacre,” hospital director Dr. Yousef Al Akkad said, his voice choking with emotion. “Let the world see, these are just children.”) US says Egypt to allow limited aid into Gaza Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi has agreed to open the Rafah crossing into besieged Gaza to allow a first batch of humanitarian aid trucks through, US President Joe Biden said."He agreed to ... let up to 20 trucks through to begin with," Biden told reporters after calling Sisi from Air Force One while returning from a visit to Israel.Both leaders agreed to work closely on encouraging an "urgent and robust" response to a humanitarian appeal by the United Nations, the White House said.) UN demands investigation into hospital attack in GazaThe UN has demanded an investigation into an Israeli attack on Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza that claimed hundreds of lives.When asked by Anadolu news agency whether the UN will be involved in the investigation to clarify details of the attack that killed hundreds of civilians, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said it is "early days" and the UN will "have to see what is done by way of investigation.""It is essential that there could be some form of investigation into this," he added.) Türkiye declares three days of national mourning for GazaTürkiye has declared a three-day national mourning period in solidarity with Palestine following an Israeli air strike on the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza that killed at least 500 people."As Türkiye, we feel the great suffering of our Palestinian brothers and sisters in our hearts," President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.The Turkish legislature earlier condemned in a joint statement Israeli attacks on hospital, and emphasised that bombing medical facilities is against the laws of war.And finally…*) Anti-Zionist Jews in US urge end to Israel's war in GazaAt least a hundred protesters have occupied a building of the US Congress urging lawmakers and Joe Biden administration to push for an end to Israel's war in besieged Gaza.Dressed in black T-shirts emblazoned with the words "Jews say cease fire now" and "Not in our name," the activists on Wednesday sat clapping and singing on the floor in the rotunda of the Cannon House Office building and held up large banners that read "Ceasefire" and "Let Gaza Live".Capitol police said protests are not allowed inside the building and many demonstrators were arrested.
) Israeli strike kills hundreds of Palestinians in GazaAn Israeli air strike on Gaza’s Al Ahli Arab Hospital compound killed at least 500 people, the Palestinian health ministry in Gaza has said, with many still under the rubble.Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas declared three days of mourning following the deadly attack.Israel’s military has denied its forces bombed the hospital.Around 3,000 people have been killed in Israeli air strikes across Gaza since the war erupted on October 7.) World reacts to Israel's strike on GazaIsrael’s hospital bombing in Gaza triggered condemnation and fury in the Middle East and beyond."Israel has crossed all red lines. ... We will not leave nor allow anyone to expel us from there," Palestine’s President Mahmoud Abbas said.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said: "Hitting a hospital containing women, children and innocent civilians is the latest example of Israel's attacks devoid of the most basic human values."United Nations Human rights chief Volker Turk shared a statement over the bombing: "Words fail me. Tonight, hundreds of people were killed — horrifically — in a massive strike at Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, including patients, healthcare workers and families that had been seeking refuge in and around the hospital. Once again the most vulnerable. This is totally unacceptable."The World Health Organization also condemned the deadly strike in a statement, said: "The hospital was operational, with patients, health- and care-givers, and internally-displaced people sheltering there.Early reports indicate hundreds of fatalities and injuries.) Jordan cancels summit with Biden after Israel bombs Gaza hospitalJordan has cancelled a planned summit with US President Joe Biden and leaders of Egypt and Palestine, saying "there is no use in talking now about anything except stopping the war."The decision came after Israel’s deadly hospital bombardment.The summit will be held "when the decision to stop the war and put an end to these massacres has been taken," said Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi.) UN warns Israel against 'forcible transfer' of Palestinians in GazaThe United Nations has warned Israel against the "forcible transfer of civilians" in Gaza, which could be in breach of international law.Israel has demanded that residents of north Gaza leave for the south, hoping to clear the area of civilians in preparation for a perilous urban ground assault."We have grave fears about the toll on civilians in the coming days. Military operations show no signs of abating," UN rights office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani told a media briefing.And finally…*) Thousands of artists demand 'immediate' end to Israeli attacks on GazaOver 2,000 artists demanded an "immediate ceasefire" and the opening of Gaza’s crossings to allow residents to leave the enclave amid increasing tension in the region.Artists for Palestine UK released a letter signed by more than 2,000 artists that include famous novelists, singers, playwrights, filmmakers as well as famed actors such as Tilda Swinton and Charles Dance."We are witnessing a crime and a catastrophe. Israel has reduced much of Gaza to rubble and cut off the supply of water, power, food and medicine to 2.3 million Palestinians. In the words of the UN’s undersecretary for humanitarian affairs, 'the spectre of death' is hanging over the territory," it said.The letter criticised governments that expressed support for Israel and it said there will come a time when they are held to account "for their complicity."
) UN Security Council rejects Russia's resolution on Gaza ceasefireThe UN Security Council has rejected a Russian resolution that condemned violence and terrorism against civilians. Only four countries joined Russia in voting for the resolution. Four countries voted against it, including the United States. Six countries abstained.Russia's UN ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, had urged support for the resolution to respond to the “unprecedented exacerbation” of the situation.The Russian draft resolution would have called for “an immediate, durable and fully respected humanitarian ceasefire” and “strongly condemns all violence and hostilities directed against civilians and all acts of terrorism.” It never mentions Hamas.) Türkiye proposes multi-country guarantor system for Israel-Palestine conflictTürkiye's foreign minister has put forth a proposal for a guarantor system in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasising Ankara's central role in shaping the idea.Hakan Fidan underlined the need for multiple countries, including Türkiye, to act as guarantors once both parties reach an agreement, with the responsibility to ensure its implementation.Fidan also pointed out the importance of international pressure on Israel to adopt a two-state solution, saying Türkiye shared its views on this issue with the parties.Discussions between the Turkish foreign minister and the US revealed that the Biden administration supported a two-state solution.Stressing the importance of transforming the current situation into an opportunity for peace, Fidan said the presence of guarantor countries would be pivotal in achieving a sustainable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.) Biden to visit Israel on Wednesday: BlinkenUS President Joe Biden will pay a solidarity visit to Israel on Wednesday following the Hamas attacks, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who also announced that Israel had agreed to work on civilian aid for Gaza.Blinken spoke after meeting for nearly eight hours at the defence ministry with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the top US diplomat's second visit since the October 7 attacks by Hamas."The president will reaffirm United States solidarity with Israel and our ironclad commitment to its security," Blinken said early Tuesday in Tel Aviv.) Malaysia pulls out of Frankfurt book fair over organisers' pro-Israel stanceMalaysia's education ministry has withdrawn from participating in this year's Frankfurt Book Fair, accusing the organisers of taking a pro-Israel stance, amid growing global divisions over the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.The move by Malaysia to pull out of what is considered the world's largest trade fair for books came after literary association Litprom said it would postpone an award ceremony for a novel by a Palestinian author at the event following the October 7 attack by the Hamas in Israel.It was announced that Palestinian author Adania Shibli would not be honoured with the LiBeraturpreis, a German award, at the fair, as had been originally planned.*) Black man wrongfully jailed for 16 years shot dead by police in USA Black man who spent more than 16 years imprisoned in Florida on a wrongful conviction was fatally shot by a sheriff’s deputy in Georgia during a traffic stop, authorities said.The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which is reviewing the shooting, identified the man as Leonard Allen Cure, 53.Cure had been represented in his exoneration case by the Innocence Project of Florida. The group’s executive director, Seth Miller, said he was devastated by news of the death, which he heard from Cure’s family.“I can only imagine what it’s like to know your son is innocent and watch him be sentenced to life in prison, to be exonerated and ... then be told that once he’s been freed, he’s been shot dead,” Miller said on Monday.
) Palestinian-American boy killed in US hate crime amid Israeli siege of GazaA landlord in the US state of Illinois stabbed a 6-year-old boy to death and seriously wounded his mother in a hate crime driven by the family's Islamic faith and the Israel-Palestine conflict.The boy was stabbed 26 times with a military-style knife with a 7-inch (18-cm) serrated blade, the Will County Sheriff's Office said in a statement.The 32-year-old woman had multiple stab wounds and is expected to survive the attack.The attacker, Joseph Czuba, 71, was charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and two counts of a hate crime, said the sheriff’s office.) Biden says Israeli occupation of Gaza would be 'a big mistake'US President Joe Biden has said that Israel's occupation of Gaza would be "a big mistake" but appeared okay for an inside operation against the Palestinian group Hamas."I think it’d be a big mistake," Biden said in an interview with CBS News' 60 Minutes program."What happened in Gaza, in my view, is Hamas and the extreme elements of Hamas don't represent all the Palestinian people.”) US news network MSNBC suspends Muslim anchors amid Israeli war in GazaUS news network MSNBC has suspended shows hosted by three Muslim anchors, following Hamas's attack inside Israel last week, two sources directly involved with the decision told Arab News.Sources say MSNBC anchors Mehdi Hasan, Ayman Mohieddine and Ali Velshi were 'quietly taken out of the anchor's chair'.On Saturday, Arab News reported that MSNBC chose not to air the weekly episode of 'The Mehdi Hasan Show' and scrapped the plan of having Mohieddine to anchor Joy Reid's show on Thursday and Friday.MSNBC, however, "vehemently pushed back against any notion that either Hasan or Mohieddine were being sidelined in any way," Semafor, a news website, said in its report.) Ecuador elects business heir as country's youngest presidentDaniel Noboa, an inexperienced politician and an heir to a fortune built on the banana trade, won Ecuador’s presidential run-off election held amid unprecedented violence that even claimed the life of a candidate.With more than 97 percent of the votes counted, electoral officials said Noboa had 52.1 percent, compared to 47.9 percent for Luisa González, a leftist lawyer and ally of exiled former President Rafael Correa. González conceded defeat during a speech before supporters in which she also urged Noboa to fulfil his campaign promises.Noboa, 35, will lead the South American country during a period that drug trafficking-related violence has left Ecuadorians wondering when, not if, they will be victims. Their uneasiness has prompted them to continuously watch their backs and limit how often they leave home.And finally…*) Türkiye beat Latvia 4-0 to qualify for UEFA EURO 2024Türkiye beat Latvia 4-0 on Sunday to qualify for the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship.After a goalless first half, Türkiye began the second half with the wind at their backs at Konya Metropolitan Municipality Stadium.Yunus Akgun drew first blood in the 58th minute, then Cenk Tosun made it 2-0 in the 84th minute.Kerem Akturkoglu netted the third goal for the hosts in the 88th minute, and Tosun tallied another goal in the 92nd minute.With this result, Türkiye placed first in Group D with 16 points and guaranteed to take part in EURO 2024.
) Israel warns 1.1 million Palestinians in Gaza to relocate southThe United Nations has said it has been told by the Israeli military that some 1.1 million Palestinians in Gaza should relocate to the blockaded enclave's south within the next 24 hours."The United Nations considers it impossible for such a movement to take place without devastating humanitarian consequences," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement."The United Nations strongly appeals for any such order, if confirmed, to be rescinded avoiding what could transform what is already a tragedy into a calamitous situation," he said.Dujarric said the order by the Israeli military also applied to all UN staff and those sheltered in UN facilities, including schools, health centres and clinics.) UN warns food, fresh water rapidly running out in Gaza amid Israeli siegeThe United Nations World Food Programme (or WFP) has warned that crucial supplies were running dangerously low in Gaza after Israel imposed a total blockade on the territory following Hamas attacks."It's a dire situation in the Gaza that we're seeing evolve with food and water being in limited supply and quickly running out," said Brian Lander on Thursday, the deputy head of emergencies at WFP, which is based in Rome."WFP is on the ground and is responding and we're providing food to thousands of people that have sought shelter in schools and elsewhere across the territory. But we're going to run out very soon," he told Reuters TV.Israel has announced a total siege on Gaza on Monday, blocking the entry of food, fuel and water into the coastal territory and shuttering all crossing points following Hamas's weekend rampage that killed more than 1,300 people.) Iran warns of reaction to Israeli 'crimes' as toll rises in GazaIran's foreign minister, whose government supports Hamas, has warned opening a "new front" against Israel would depend on Israel's actions in blockaded Gaza."The continuation of war crimes against Palestine and Gaza will receive a response from the rest of the axis. And naturally, the Zionist entity and its supporters will be responsible for the consequences of that," Hossein Amirabdollahian said.The Iranian minister said the displacement of Palestinians and cutting water and electricity to Gaza are considered war crimes.) Gaza death toll, evacuation numbers swellGaza's Health Ministry has said that 1,537 Palestinians, including 500 children and 276 women, were killed and 6,612 were wounded in ongoing Israeli air strikes on the blockaded enclave.As of late Thursday, the number of displaced people in Gaza had risen by additional 84,444 people and reached 423,378, the UN humanitarian agency said in a statement.*) US is inflaming Middle East conflict by sending aircraft carrier: PutinRussian President Vladimir Putin accused the United States of inflaming the Middle East by sending an aircraft carrier group to the region, saying "compromise solutions" were needed and that he hoped common sense would prevail.Putin, speaking at an energy conference in Moscow, said on Wednesday the US move of sending an aircraft carrier strike group closer to Israel, which was also fiercely criticised by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday, was a mistake."I don't understand why the US is dragging aircraft carrier groups into the Mediterranean Sea. I don't really understand the point. Are they going to bomb Lebanon or what?" he said.
) Türkiye holding negotiations over Israeli civilians in Hamas detentionPresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has increased Türkiye's diplomatic efforts in securing the release of Israeli civilians from besieged Gaza even as Hamas freed a woman and her two children in the first release of Israelis detained by Palestinian fighters."They are negotiating to secure the release of the hostages," an official source said, confirming a report by the private TV channel Haberturk."We are ready to do everything in our power, including mediation and fair arbitration to end the conflict quickly," Anadolu Agency quoted Erdogan as saying.Erdogan separately criticised Israel over its disproportionate attacks on Gaza that could bring Tel Aviv into an undesirable place in the eyes of world public opinion.) Gaza death toll climbs to 1,200, with 5000 others woundedGaza’s Health Ministry has announced that the number of Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks has climbed to around 1,200, with nearly 5,000 wounded.More than 338,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in besieged Gaza, the United Nations said, as heavy Israeli bombardments continue to hit the Palestinian enclave.The number of displaced in the densely populated territory of 2.3 million people had by late Wednesday "risen by an additional 75,000 people and reached 338,934," the UN added.) UN agency seeks $104M in urgent Gaza aid as humanitarian crisis deepensThe United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (or UNRWA) has said it was seeking $104 million for life-saving aid to Gaza, which has been pounded by Israeli reprisal strikes following attacks by Hamas against Israel."The requested funds will cover the urgent immediate food, non-food, health, shelter and protection needs of up to 250,000 persons seeking safety in UNRWA shelters across the ravaged Gaza and another 250,000 Palestine refugees within the community," according to the UN.UNRWA, which was already facing financial difficulties, said it had enough funding to continue its regular services, including education, healthcare and social protection, across the region until the end of October.) Several UN, aid group workers killed in ruthless Israeli strikes on GazaEleven workers with the UN Palestinian refugee agency have been killed in Israeli air strikes on besieged Gaza since Saturday, and five members of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent have also been killed in the conflict, the organisations said."We are very saddened to confirm that 11 UNRWA colleagues have been killed since 7 October in the Gaza Strip," UNRWA said in a statement on Wednesday.It did not specify if they were Palestinian or foreign personnel but said they included five teachers at UNRWA schools, one gynaecologist, one engineer, one psychological counsellor and three support staff.The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said in a separate statement that five of its members - four in Gaza and one in Israel - had been killed.*) Putin in Kyrgyzstan on first trip since ICC arrest warrantVladimir Putin has arrived in Kyrgyzstan, visiting abroad for the first time since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for him in March.President Putin is wanted by the court over the deportation of Ukrainian children. Its ruling requires members of the ICC, which does not include Kyrgyzstan, to make the arrest if he sets foot on their territory.This year, he has travelled only to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine, with his last foreign trips to Belarus and Kyrgyzstan last December — a far cry from the busy international schedule he had earlier in his rule.
) Palestine accuses Israel of waging 'genocidal' war in besieged GazaThe Palestinian envoy to the United Nations has described Israel's bombardment of besieged Gaza, vowing to impose a complete siege on the Palestinian enclave, as "nothing less than genocidal."Israel has incessantly bombarded Gaza, killing some 900 Palestinians and razing entire districts amid possible preparations for a ground invasion.Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant drew international condemnation by announcing on Monday a "total blockade" to stop food and fuel reaching Gaza, home to 2.3 million people. Gallant said Israel was battling "beastly people.""Such blatant dehumanisation and attempts to bomb a people into submission, to use starvation as a method of warfare, and to eradicate their national existence are nothing less than genocidal," Palestine's UN envoy Riyad Mansour wrote in a letter to the UN Security Council on Tuesday."These acts constitute war crimes," he wrote.) President Erdogan, UN chief Guterres discuss Israel-Palestine tensionTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have discussed steps to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which recently sparked into the deadliest conflict seen in years.In a phone call, Erdogan and Guterres also exchanged views on what could be done to deliver humanitarian assistance to innocent civilians to the region through Türkiye's mediation efforts, Türkiye's Communication Directorate said on Tuesday in a statement.Warning that disproportionate attacks could lead the situation into further stalemate, Erdogan told Guterres that it is very important for the parties to act with restraint and avoid impulsive steps.) Two-state solution only path to sustainable peace in Middle East: Turkish FMTürkiye condemns attacks on civilians and attaches great importance to achieving calm in the Palestine-Israel conflict, the country's foreign minister has said.Speaking at the Economic Cooperation Organisation’s meeting in Azerbaijan’s city of Shusha on Tuesday, Hakan Fidan said: "We condemn attacks on civilians and emphasise the importance of restoring calm in the region,” underscoring the importance of avoiding geographical tensions that could lead to global insecurity and instability.The recent conflict was unprecedented, but not entirely surprising, Fidan said.He said the current tensions in the region are yet another indication that the only path to sustainable and equitable peace in the Middle East is a two-state solution."This is an era of geopolitical changes and tensions. The geoeconomic landscape is also adapting accordingly. In a globalised world, regional dynamics and integration have become even more critical. ECO is working towards this goal," he said.) Israel gets 'advanced' US ammo ahead of 'full' Gaza offensiveThe Israeli military has said "a first plane carrying American ammunition had landed in Israel after the US said it would send new supplies of air defences, munitions and other security assistance to its ally to battle Palestinian Hamas militants."The army said "the ammunition is designed to inflict significant blows," adding it is in "preparation for additional scenarios."It comes as Israel's defence minister announced that Israeli forces have taken control of the border area of besieged Gaza. "I have lifted all restrictions," said Yoav Gallant, adding, "We have taken the region under control. Now we are launching a full attack.*) Fresh 6.3-magnitude earthquake hits Afghanistan's HeratA magnitude 6.3 earthquake has struck western Afghanistan, the US Geological Survey said, hitting an area where more than 2,500 people were killed, after a similar tremor on the weekend.The quake occurred on Wednesday at a shallow depth at around 5:10 am local time [00:40 GMT], with its epicentre about 29 kilometres north of the city of Herat, the USGS said.
) Israel announces complete siege of GazaIsrael has announced a "complete siege" of Palestine's Gaza amid intensified fighting with the Palestinian Hamas group.“There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel, everything is closed (to Gaza), " Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said following an army's assessment session.Energy Minister Israel Katz separately ordered "to immediately cut the water supply to Gaza".Katz's order came soon after Gallant's order for a "complete siege" on Gaza, which receives about 10 percent of its annual water from Israel.) US, Europe witness rival groups demonstrate over Gaza bombardmentsThousands of pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian protesters have held mainly peaceful gatherings in US and Europe, however, there have been a few small disturbances.In London, Paris, Athens, and several cities in the US including New York, supporters of Israel and of the Palestinians held competing rallies.) Fanatical Jews issue death threats to Al Aqsa Mosque imam Sheikh Sabri Extremist Jewish groups have stepped up calls for the assassination of Sheikh Ikrima Sabri , imam of the Al aqsa Mosque, his lawyers said.The Defence Committee of Sheikh Ikrima Sabri , consisting of lawyers, issued a statement saying his life is under "serious threat" due to increasing "fascism" in Israeli society.The committee has called for taking the assassination and elimination threats seriously to ensure his protection and has lamented the silence of "Israeli security forces" over the provocations by fanatical Jewish groups and individuals.) Egypt intensifies diplomatic efforts to de-escalate Hamas-Israel conflictEgypt has intensified its push for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate spiralling violence in besieged Gaza and Israel.President Abdel Fattah el Sisi spoke with UAE Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, agreeing to "intensify discussions and diplomatic efforts to stop military escalation", Sisi's spokesperson has said.Sisi has also spoken with Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, warning of the dangerous "absence of political prospects", and with Jordan's King Abdullah II, whose country acts as custodian of Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.*) Syria faces torture allegations at international courtSyria faces allegations at the UN top court that it maintains a "pervasive" system of torture that has killed tens of thousands of people.The case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) marks the first time Damascus has faced international judges over the brutal civil war that started in 2011.Victims have endured "unimaginable physical and mental pain and suffering" from "abhorrent treatment in detention, inhumane conditions of detention, and sexual and gender-based violence," the case brought by the Netherlands and Canada alleges.Damascus, on the other hand, has dismissed the case as "disinformation and lies," with a government source saying the allegations "lack the slightest degree of credibility."
) Erdogan says freedom of Palestine along 1967 borders must not be delayedTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged both Israel and Hamas to cease fighting, saying the realisation of an independent, geographically integrated Palestinian state based on 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as capital, cannot be delayed.) Over 123,000 displaced in Gaza amid Israel, Hamas conflict — UNThe United Nations says the number of displaced Gaza residents has risen to more than 123,000, due to the fighting between the Israeli military and Hamas, following the group’s unprecedented attack on Israel.As of late Sunday, Israeli airstrikes in retaliation had destroyed 159 housing units across Gaza and severely damaged 1,210 others, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.The UN agency for Palestinian refugees said a school sheltering more than 225 people took a direct hit.The Gaza Health Ministry said 413 people, including 78 children and 41 women, were killed in the territory.) US military aid to Israel amounts to aggression against Palestinians: HamasPalestinian resistance group Hamas has said that the United States' plan to provide increased military aid to Israel amounts to "aggression" against Palestinians, after Washington ordered navy ships and warplanes closer to Israel.The Pentagon said it was sending the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and its accompanying warships to the eastern Mediterranean, while boosting fighter aircraft squadrons in the region.) Israeli bombardment wipes out 19-member Palestinian family in GazaAn Israeli airstrike in the southern blockaded Gaza enclave wipes out 19 members of a family, including women and children. The air strike also killed five neighbours who were standing outside the jam-packed refugee camp, a jumble of buildings and alleyways.The air strike in Rafah came as Israeli forces intensified their bombardment of targets in Gaza following a big, multi-front attack by Hamas fighters on Saturday.Hamas also took dozens of Israelis hostage and fired thousands of rockets toward Israeli population centres, although most were intercepted by the country's Iron Dome defence system.*) Türkiye conducts aerial operations against YPG/PKK in northern SyriaTurkish forces destroyed at least six targets, consisting of shelters and bunkers used in the fight against separatist terrorists, in an air operation carried out in northern Syria, Türkiye’s Ministry of National Defence has said.In its Sunday statement, the ministry said that it carried out an operation against the PKK/YPG and other terrorist elements to neutralise them and ensure border security.The statement underscored that the operation was carried out under the United Nations' self-defence article.Six targets, including an oil facility, hideouts, and shelters, were destroyed, the ministry noted.
) Türkiye destroys terror targets in SyriaTürkiye has hit the terrorist group YPG/PKK positions as part of its anti-terror operations in northern Syria, destroying dozens of targets and "neutralising" many terrorists.30 targets, including an oil well and a storage facility, caves, bunkers, shelters and warehouses used by terrorists were destroyed, Turkish Defence Ministry said in a statement.The Turkish anti-terror operation came after PKK/YPG attacked the Interior Ministry in the Turkish capital Ankara last Sunday.) Bangladesh gets first uranium shipment from Russia for nuclear power plant Bangladesh has received the first Russian shipment of uranium fuel for its $12.65B debut nuclear power plant, making it the 33rd country in the world to produce nuclear power.The South Asian country is building the first of two nuclear power plants in collaboration with Russian state-owned atomic company Rosatom.Ninety percent of the project is financed through a Russian loan repayable within 28 years with a 10-year grace period.) Biden to extend US border wall with Mexico using Trump-era fundsUS President Joe Biden has defended his plans to extend the border wall with Mexico, saying he didn't think such barriers worked, but he was bound by laws introduced under former president Donald Trump.Biden, who is polling neck-and-neck with rival Trump ahead of a likely 2024 rematch, insisted on Thursday his predecessor had tied his hands on the wall-building."They have to use the money for what it was appropriated for. I can’t stop that," he told reporters in the Oval Office.The US president also stressed that the border wall is ineffective.) Drone attack on Syrian military ceremony kills 80, wounds 240An attack on a Syrian crowded military graduation ceremony has killed 80 and wounded 240 others.Civilians, including children, and military personnel were among the dead.Syria's regime said in an earlier statement that drones laden with explosives targeted the ceremony.No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.*) Eastern Canada breaks autumn heat recordsEastern Canada has shattered heat records this week with temperatures close to 30 degrees Celsius, worrying experts and everyday people struggling to cope with extreme weather made worse by the climate crisis.In the last three days, heat records were broken in Quebec and adjacent provinces.On Wednesday, the mercury reached 29.3 degrees Celsius in Montreal, surpassing the record of 26.7 degrees set in 2005.
) Many dead, over 100 missing in India flash floods due to glacial lake burstAt least 14 people have been killed and 102 others missing in northeast India after heavy rain caused a glacial lake to burst its banks.The disaster affected the lives of 22,000 people and is the latest in a series of deadly weather events in South Asia's mountains.A cloudburst dropped a huge amount of rain over a short period on the Lhonak glacial lake, triggering flash floods and washing away eleven bridges.) Azerbaijan president refuses to attend EU-brokered meet over snub to Türkiye Azerbaijan president Ilham Aliyev has decided against attending an EU-brokered meeting in Spain after France and Germany opposed his request for Turkish representation at the talks.It would have been his first face-to-face talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan since Baku took back full control of Karabakh.Aliyev wanted ally Türkiye to be represented at the meeting, but when France and Germany objected, he said "an anti-Azerbaijani atmosphere" had developed.) Millions off work as Typhoon Koinu brings 'record' winds, rains to TaiwanTyphoon Koinu has unleashed record winds in southern Taiwan, with gusts of over 340 kilometres per hour. Nearly 200 people have been injured. Koinu made landfall as a category four typhoon, but is expected to weaken as it heads towards China. The severe weather has forced the shutdown of thousands of workplaces and schools across the region.) 'Stop killing our children': Palestine, Israel women rally against violenceHundreds of Palestinian and Israeli women have rallied in occupied Jerusalem and the Dead Sea in the occupied West Bank. They called for an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, chanting "we want peace” and holding placards that read "Stop killing our children".Persistent violence linked to Israel's occupation of Palestinian lands has escalated since last year. At least 243 Palestinians and 32 Israelis have been killed this year.*) Africa, Europe and South America to host FIFA 2030 World Cup gamesMorocco, Portugal and Spain will be joint hosts for the 2030 World Cup but games will also be played in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay.FIFA said in a statement that the matches in South America were part of the celebration to mark 100 years since the first World Cup in Uruguay.The announcement puts an end to competition between two major bids, one led by Spain and Portugal and the other from Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and Paraguay.
) US House ousts Kevin McCarthy as speaker in historic voteA rare and dramatic scenario played out in the US congress when senior Republican Kevin McCarthy was ousted as US House speaker by his own party members.This came after Democrats announced that they would not bail him out of a move by Trump loyalists to remove McCarthy from the powerful post.McCarthy sparked fury among some Republicans when he worked with Democrats to pass a stopgap funding measure to avert a government shutdown.The Speaker is the top Republican and second in line of succession to the US presidency. ) Azerbaijan arrests top separatists as it takes total control of KarabakhAuthorities in Azerbaijan have arrested several former separatist leaders of Karabakh after reclaiming control of the Armenian-occupied region in a lightning military operation last month.This is according to a top Azerbaijani news agency.The wave of arrests comes as Azerbaijani authorities move swiftly to establish their control over the region after a military operation that put an end to the illegal Armenian occupation in the region.) Nearly two dozen Indian soldiers missing as flash floods hit hill stateThe Indian army has said that 23 soldiers are missing after a powerful flash flood caused by intense rainfall tore through a valley in the north east.The army said water released upstream from the Chungthang dam meant the river was already more than 4.5 metres higher than usual.Intermittent rain and thundershowers were hampering rescue operations in the area, according to an army official.) Bus crash near Italy's Venice city leaves nearly two dozen deadA bus carrying foreign tourists has crashed near the Italian city of Venice, killing at least 21 people and injuring 18 others.According to officials, two of the dead were children and four of the injured were in serious condition following the accident on the mainland opposite the historic old city of Venice.Firefighters said the bus caught fire after careering off a bridge straddling a railway line.*) Galatasaray stun Man United with historic 3-2 winGalatasaray have beaten Manchester United 3-2 in a UEFA Champions League match, marking a historic win for the Turkish powerhouse.Galatasaray won the five-goal thriller in the Theatre of Dreams to move to second place in the group. The Turkish team has four points.Meanwhile, Man United are at the bottom of the group after losing their second match in a row.
) Militant attack leaves dozens of Nigerian soldiers deadTwenty-nine soldiers have been killed in western Niger in an attack by suspected militants, the Defence Ministry has said.The ministry said the soldiers were targeted using "improvised explosive devices and kamikaze vehicles by more than a hundred terrorists".Two soldiers were seriously wounded and "several dozen terrorists" were also killed.According to the ministry, the attack took place near the country's border with Mali, during military operations aimed at "neutralising the threat posed by the Daesh" terror group.) EU foreign ministers promise Ukraine billions of dollars EU foreign ministers have held talks with their Ukrainian counterpart in Kiev – the first time such a gathering has taken place outside of the bloc. It comes amid growing Western impatience over the war with Russia, especially after the Ukrainian counter-offensive didn't gather the pace many leaders had hoped for. Afterwards, the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell proposed over 5 billion dollars in military aid for Kiev next year.Meanwhile, Ukraine's eastern city of Kharkiv will build the country's first fully underground school to shield pupils from Russia's frequent bomb and missile attacks.) UN finds no civilian violence in Azerbaijan's Karabakh as operation endsThe UN mission visiting Karabakh in Azerbaijan has not received reports of violence against Armenian residents and seen destruction against civilian infrastructure.The mission was in the region to assess the situation on the ground and identify the humanitarian needs of both the people remaining and those who are on the move.Spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters the team surveyed the border checkpoint in Lachin and the city of Khankendi.) Guatemalans block roads as anger grows over election interferenceHundreds of Guatemalans have blocked key roads to demand the resignation of top prosecutors.The protesters accuse the prosecutors of trying to block the newly-elected president Bernardo Arevalo from taking office. One prosecutor even sent security forces to seize boxes of voting records.Arevalo is due to take office in January but observers and the international community have raised the alarm over efforts to challenge his election win.And finally…*) Trump decries New York trial over his business practices as 'scam'Former US President Donald Trump's fraud trial has gotten underway in Manhattan.Trump and his sons have been charged with inflating the value of his assets by billions of dollars to secure better loan and insurance terms.Trump is at risk of losing his business in New York and paying millions of dollars in fines but he denounced the case as a politically motivated "scam".
) No one pursuing hostility towards Türkiye emerges victorious: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticised those who are trying to give democracy lessons to Türkiye, noting they turn a blind eye to hate crimes against Turks and Muslims, especially amid rising Islamophobia.In a speech at the Turkish Parliament on Sunday, Erdogan underscored Türkiye's critical role from Karabakh to Libya and Syria to Somalia, insisting, "No country, no society, no institution that pursues a hostile policy towards Türkiye emerges victorious in the end."In the meantime, Turkish warplanes carried out airstrikes on PKK positions in northern Iraq, in accordance with the UN's right to self-defence, the Turkish Defence Ministry has announced.Erdogan's comments and the anti-terror operation came after two terrorists attacked the Turkish Interior Ministry, in the nation's capital, Ankara, hours before his speech in parliament.) Children among several dead, injured in Mexico church roof collapseThe roof of a church collapsed in northern Mexico, during a Mass, killing at least nine people and injuring around 50, authorities said. Search teams probed in the wreckage late into the night, looking for survivors and other victims.The number of young victims — police officers said three of the dead were children — may have been due to the fact that baptisms were to take place at the church.The diocese later posted a list of about 50 people who had been hospitalised, as a result of the accident. Approximately 30 parishioners were believed to have been trapped in the rubble l, when the roof caved in, officials said. ) Serbia tried to annex northern Kosovo in recent attack: PristinaKosovo said it has evidence Serbia was trying to annex its northern region and that recent attackers had been preparing for this for a long time at military bases.''This terrorist organisation had only one purpose: the annexation of the north of the Republic of Kosovo,” the Interior Minister said on Sunday.According to the minister, the Serbian President, Defence Minister and Army Chief of Staff were directly engaged in the attempt.) UN to vote on sending peacekeepers to HaitiThe United Nations Security Council is set to vote to approve the deployment of foreign police to Haiti and to authorise the use of force to help the Caribbean nation combat violent gangs that have largely overrun the capital Port-au-Prince.A US-drafted resolution would also expand a UN arms embargo that currently applies only to designated individuals to include all gangs, which China wanted. Haitian officials have said guns used by gangs are believed to be mostly imported from the United States.Haiti asked nearly a year ago for international help.*) Japanese start-up develops high-tech robot inspired by 'Gundam'Tokyo-based start-up Tsubame Industries has developed a 4.5-metre-tall, four-wheeled robot that looks like "Mobile Suit Gundam" from the wildly popular Japanese animation series, and it can be yours for $3 million.Called ARCHAX, after a avian dinosaur, the robot has cockpit monitors that receive images from cameras hooked up to the exterior, so the pilot can manoeuvre the arms and hands with joysticks from inside its torso.The 3.5-tonne robot, to be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show later this month, has two modes: the upright "robot mode" and a "vehicle mode" in which it can travel up to 10 km per hour.
) Pakistan likens Palestine to Kashmir, says won't normalise ties with IsraelPakistan will not follow other nations who are normalising relations with Israel, the South Asian country's interim foreign minister has said."We do not follow others, we look at our national interests," said Jalil Abbas Jilani.Explaining his country’s position on the Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands, Jilani said Islamabad's stance on the Israel or Palestine issue is "very clear" and "it will remain in the future as well.") Kiev will secure EU from Russian nuclear blackmail — ZelenskyyUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that his country will do everything to liberate the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and to secure Europe from Russian radiation blackmail."We will do everything to implement the first point of our Peace Formula – nuclear and radiation security," Zelenskyy said in his nightly address.He also added that they are preparing to yield more results for their international efforts to strengthen the country.) Blinken meets Jaishankar amid Canada-India row over Sikh leader's murderUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has met with India's foreign minister amid a simmering row between New Delhi and Ottawa over allegations of Indian government involvement in the killing of a Sikh activist in Canada.Neither man spoke about the controversy that has disrupted Canada-India relations in very brief comments to reporters."We have consistently engaged with the Indian government on this question and have urged them to cooperate," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said.But a US statement after Blinken met his Indian counterpart made no mention of Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder or of Canada as a whole.) Number of US-bound refugees crossing dangerous Darien Gap tops 400,000The number of US-bound refugees and migrants who have crossed through the notorious jungle stretch between Panama and Colombia has soared this year to more than 400,000.Panama's Public Security Ministry said on Thursday it has tallied 402,030 people passing through as of Wednesday.That figure is 62 percent more than the number of migrants who crossed the Darien Gap in all of 2022.Panama said as many as 4,000 people are crossing from Colombia each day. *) Meta puts artificial intelligence in smart glassesMeta chief Mark Zuckerberg has said the tech giant is putting artificial intelligence into digital assistants and smart glasses as it seeks to gain lost ground in the AI race.“Smart glasses are going to eventually allow us to bring all of this together into a stylish form factor that we can wear," Zuckerberg said.Smart glasses are one of the many ways that tech companies have tried to move beyond the smartphone as a user-friendly device, but so far with little success.The second-generation Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses made in a partnership with EssilorLuxottica will have a starting price of $299 when they hit the market on October 17.
) PKK terror threat to Syria 'never been more alarming', warns TürkiyeTürkiye's ambassador to the United Nations, has warned the threat posed by the PKK terrorist group to Syria, is of greater concern, than ever before."The continued presence of terrorist organisations in Syria poses a vital threat to this country and its neighbours, primarily Türkiye, as well as to the wider region," Sedat Onal said at a UN Security Council session on Syria.Onal emphasised Türkiye will take measures against direct and imminent threats, posed to its national security, by terrorist organisations operating in Syria.) Rich nations yet to deliver on 2022 Pakistan flood aid promise — UNA year after deadly floods inundated a third of Pakistan, the broken promises to rebuild the country presents "a litmus test for climate justice," the head of the United Nations has said."Billions were pledged" by rich nations in the aftermath of the disaster, said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, "but the vast majority was in loans. And Pakistan is still waiting for much of the funding.""Delays are undermining people's efforts to rebuild their lives," the UN chief said, adding the Asian nation was "a double victim - of climate chaos and of our outdated and unjust global financial system." ) Russia accuses US of circumventing Israel-Palestine peace dealRussia has accused the United States of promoting Israel's normalisation of relations with Arab nations.Russia also accuses the US of circumventing the Arab Peace Initiative, launched by Saudi Arabia in 2002, which calls for a settlement to the Israel-Palestine conflict, before any diplomatic recognition of Israel.The statement also implicitly criticised Saudi Arabia — without naming it — for moving toward establishing diplomatic relations with Israel, while taking "aggressive illegal actions", including an "unprecedented" expansion of settlements in the territory.) Republicans tussle over immigration, China, Trump at second primary debateSeven Republican hopefuls clashed over immigration, China and the economy, at the party's second 2024 presidential primary, but saved some of their most strident remarks to slam frontrunner Donald Trump for spurning the showdown.Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said Trump, who was speaking to a crowd of autoworkers in Detroit, instead of joining the debate, should have been on the stage with his primary rivals. *) TRT World documentary 'Off the Grid' wins Emmy AwardTRT World's documentary "Off The Grid," featuring the episode "Ukraine Wartime Diaries," has won the 44th International Emmy Award in the "News and Current Affairs" category.Winners of the News categories of the 44th Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards were announced by The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences [NATAS] at the Palladium Times Square in New York City. TRT World, representing Türkiye in the finals, was up against competitors from the UK, Brazil, and Israel.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, September 27th.) Iraq wedding fire leaves 113 dead, more than 150 injuredAt least 113 people have been killed and more than 150 wounded when fire broke out at a wedding celebration in the district of Hamdaniya in Iraq’s Nineveh province.The fire ripped through a large events hall after fireworks were lit during the celebration, local civil defence said.Najim al Jubouri, the provincial governor of Nineveh, cautioned there were no final casualty figures yet from the blaze, suggesting the death toll still may rise.) Türkiye wants opening of Zangezur corridor ‘as soon as possible’: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stressed the importance of opening the Zangezur Corridor land route in southern Caucasus.“Hopefully, we will realise the Zangezur Corridor as soon as possible and make our road and rail communication with friendly and brotherly Azerbaijan uninterrupted through Nakhchivan,” Erdogan said.The remark came a day after his visit to Azerbaijan’s autonomous Nakhchivan exclave, where he met his counterpart Aliyev to discuss particularly the recent situation in Karabakh.) Mexico disperses thousands of migrants; Costa Rica to declare emergencyMexico seeking to deal with an unfolding migrant crisis has dispersed thousands of people on its southern border.Migrants on the other side of the country defied new enforcement measures and continued to arrive at northern cities by cargo train.Large numbers of migrants have been crossing into the United States from Mexico in recent weeks.More migrants have also been seen traversing the Americas, and Costa Rica’s president ordered a state of emergency over the sharp rise of people passing through the small Central American nation.) UN warns of ‘harmful consequences’ over France’s headscarf ban for athletesNo one has a say in what women should wear, a UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) spokesperson has said, focusing on France’s recent ban on headscarves for athletes in next year’s Olympic games.“In general, the Human Rights Office says that no one should impose on a woman what she needs to wear or not wear,” Marta Hurtado told a UN press briefing in Geneva.She warned that discriminatory practices against a group can have “harmful consequences.”And finally…*) Hollywood screenwriters end strike after pay deal with studiosAmerican television and movie writers have agreed to end a strike that lasted nearly five months and paralysed Hollywood after reaching a pay deal with production studios.The 11,500 members have until October 9 to cast their votes on the proposed contract.The Writers Guild of America said the estimated value of the deal was $233 million per year.Thousands of film and television writers began striking in early May over demands including better pay for writers and protection from artificial intelligence.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) South Korea holds rare military parade amid North's nuclear threatSouth Korea kicked off its first large-scale military parade in a decade, showcasing weapons ranging from ballistic missiles to attack helicopters.The parade marks the country's Armed Forces Day, normally a muted event relative to the massive events the North has staged under leader Kim Jong-un.In a speech, President Yoon Suk Yeol warned the North against using nuclear weapons and pledged to ramp up support for the military and the defence industry.) Ukraine says Russia's Black Sea Fleet commander killedUkraine's special forces have killed Moscow's top admiral in Crimea along with 33 other officers in a missile attack last week.Admiral Viktor Sokolov allegedly died in the attack on the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the port of Sevastopol.Sokolov was the commander of the Black Sea Fleet and one of Russia's most senior navy officers, had been killed.The Russian Defence Ministry did not immediately respond when asked to confirm or deny the allegations.) Ratifying Sweden's NATO accession bid not 'urgent': Hungary's OrbanHungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has told parliament that ratifying Sweden's NATO bid was not "urgent".Hungary has still not voted to approve the Nordic country's entry into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.Orban accused the Nordic country of having challenged his country's "democratic nature".) China sentences Muslim Uighur scholar to life in prison: rights groupChina has sentenced a well-respected Uighur Muslim academic to life in prison on charges of "endangering state security", a US-based rights group has said.In a statement, the Dui Hua Foundation said Rahile Dawut, 57, lost her appeal against her original conviction in December 2018.Rights advocates have accused China of launching a mass internment campaign targeting Uighurs, along with abuses such as forced sterilisation and cultural repression.And finally…*) Striking Hollywood writers reach 'tentative' deal with studiosStriking writers have reached an "exceptional" deal with Hollywood studios that could see them return to work.The Writers Guild of America told members no one is to return to work until specifically authorised to but picketing has been suspended following the deal.Thousands of film and television writers began striking in early May over demands including better pay for writers and protection from artificial intelligence.
) Azerbaijan launches anti-terror ops in KarabakhAzerbaijan has launched "local anti-terrorist activities" in Karabakh to restore constitutional order by disarming and forcing the withdrawal of Armenian military formations after six Azerbaijani citizens were killed in separate mine blasts in the breakaway region.Baku blamed Armenian separatists for the death of the four Azerbaijani police officers and two civilians.The ex-Soviet neighbours have been locked in a decades-long dispute over the mountainous region, going to war twice in the 1990s and in 2020.) Erdogan: Security Council no longer guarantor of international securityTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said the UN Security Council no longer works to ensure global security but instead is an arena for its five permanent member states to engage in strategic confrontations.“We must build a global governance architecture that is capable of representing all origins, beliefs and cultures in the world,” he added.The effectiveness of the Security Council has been questioned in the face of recent crises, especially after Russia launched an offensive against Ukraine nearly 19 months ago. ) Canada Sikh, Muslim groups demand India cooperate with Nijjar murder probeWorld Sikh and other organisations have called for action after recent allegations over India’s complicity in the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.Nijjar, a Sikh leader in the western Canadian province of British Columbia, was shot dead on June 18 in front of a Sikh temple in Surrey.Earlier, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged India to take the allegations seriously, a concern that Washington later echoed.) Muslim leaders bash West at UNGA over Quran desecrationsMuslim leaders addressing the United Nations have berated the West over burnings of the Quran, denouncing the acts protected as free speech as discriminatory.Quran desecration in Sweden sparked debate on religious tolerance and freedom of expression, with calls for deeper understanding of religious sensitivities and a rebalanced relationship between free speech and religious respect."It has reached intolerable levels. Unfortunately, populist politicians in many countries continue to play with fire by encouraging such dangerous trends," Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.*) Dinosaur 'Barry' up for auction in ParisAn unusually well-preserved dinosaur skeleton, a Camptosaurus known as 'Barry' that dates from the late Jurassic period some 150 million years ago, will go under the hammer in Paris next month.The dinosaur, which was first discovered in the 1990s in the US state of Wyoming, was initially restored in 2000 by palaeontologist Barry James, from whom it got its name.Italian laboratory Zoic, which acquired Barry last year, has done further restoration work on the skeleton, which is 2.10 metres (6.9 feet) tall and 5 metres (16.4 ft ) long.
) Canada expels Indian diplomat over murder of Sikh leaderCanada has expelled an Indian diplomat over his alleged link to the murder of a Sikh leader in western Canada last June, Canada's foreign minister said.India rejected the allegations of its involvement in any act of violence in Canada, noting the claims are "absurd and motivated". New Delhi also expelled a Canadian diplomat in a tir-for-tat move.India urges Canada instead to take legal action against anti-Indian elements operating from its soil.) Only Russian, Ukrainian presidents can decide when war will end: ErdoganOnly the Russian and Ukrainian presidents can determine when the war in Ukraine will come to an end, said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.In an interview with an American public broadcaster, President Erdogan emphasised that he could not provide a timeline for the war's conclusion.Asked about his discussions with Putin regarding the war's progress, President Erdogan noted that the conflict is expected to continue for "a long time.") Biden, 80, confronts age issue: Seeking re-election as 'democracy is at stake'US President Joe Biden has acknowledged concerns about his age but said he was running for re-election because democracy was still at stake.“Let there be no question, Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans are determined to destroy American democracy,” Biden said, referring to the former president's slogan, “Make America Great Again.”Opinion polls show American voters have concerns about Biden's age ahead of a likely rematch next year against Trump, whom he beat in 2020.) Australia to spend $966M to boost maritime surveillanceAustralia will spend $966 million to boost maritime surveillance of its northern approaches.The country is buying more long-range drone aircraft and upgrading Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.The fleet of 14 Boeing P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol aircraft will have anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike and intelligence collection capabilities upgraded, Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said.An additional Triton drone aircraft will enhance operations from Australia's northern bases, provide long-range surveillance of Australia's maritime region, the statement said.*) 95% of educational institutions destroyed in Libya flood zone: Tripoli govt95 percent of the educational institutions in the eastern part of Libya were damaged by the tsunami-sized flash floods that killed thousands of people last week.114 schools in 15 localities were damaged by the floods, an official in the Education Ministry, noted.However, the school year will start next week across Libya, Minister of Education Musa al Maqrif said.
) Türkiye rejects attacks on Muslim values in name of freedom: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has slammed recent attacks on the Quran, saying if hostility towards Islam is not prevented, perpetrators will become more reckless. Erdogan called these actions “provocations that aim to incite people” at a dinner event organised by the Turkish American National Steering Committee in New York.He said Türkiye will not accept the justification of these attacks on the sacred values of two billion Muslims worldwide under the guise of freedom of thought. ) Four Greek aid workers killed in accident in flood-stricken LibyaFour members of a Greek humanitarian aid team, sent to Libya after the devastating floods that hit Derna, have been killed in a road accident.The eastern-based government's health minister said the accident took place when a vehicle carrying the team collided with a car carrying a Libyan family. Three people in the car died and two were seriously injured, he added.This comes a week after a tsunami-sized flash flood devastated the Libyan coastal city of Derna, sweeping thousands to their deaths. The true death toll remains unknown.) Flames engulf central Khartoum as war rages across Sudan in its 6th monthAn 18-storey building in the centre of Sudan's capital was engulfed in flames, and paramilitary forces attacked the army headquarters for the second day in a row, witnesses reported.Battles between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces intensified on Saturday, resulting in key buildings in central Khartoum being set alight.Since civil war erupted on April 15 between the forces, millions of people have been displaced – fleeing the relentless air strikes, artillery fire and street battles.) Klishchiivka village near Bakhmut recaptured — Ukraine generalIn the latest in the Ukraine war, the general in command of Ukraine's ground forces has said that Ukrainian forces recaptured the eastern village of Klishchiivka.Russians claimed control of the village on the southern flank of Bakhmut in January.Ukraine’s interior minister also confirmed on Telegram that the village was recaptured in heavy fighting.*) UN designates Palestine's Jericho in West Bank as World Heritage SiteA UN conference has voted to list prehistoric ruins near the ancient occupied West Bank city of Jericho as a World Heritage Site in Palestine.The listing refers to the Tel es-Sultan archaeological site, which contains prehistoric ruins dating back to the ninth millennium BC and is outside the ancient city.In response, the Israeli Foreign Ministry has renounced the decision. It said the decision is an indication of Palestinians' use of UNESCO and the politicisation of the organisation.
) Demonstrators protest outside French Embassy in Vienna against abaya ban A group of demonstrators have gathered in front of the French Embassy in Vienna to voice opposition in a display of solidarity against a recent ban on abayas in French schools.Organised as a peaceful protest, participants wore long dresses and carried banners with slogans such as "Abaya is our right and identity", "Do not judge women by their clothing", and "My clothes, my choice."The protest aimed to express strong disagreement with the decision in France that prohibits the wearing of abayas in educational institutions.) Sweden failed to fulfil duties under NATO bid: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized Sweden for failing to meet its obligations under a deal with Türkiye to join NATO, especially in light of recent terrorist protests in Sweden.Besides drafting new laws to better combat terrorism, Sweden must also enforce the measures in these laws, Erdogan said.Turkish president says these are evidence of Stockholm's inability to combat terrorism effectively.) Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, sign defence pactMali, Niger and Burkina Faso, three West African Sahel nations ruled by military juntas, have signed a security pact promising to come to the aid of each other in case of any rebellion or external aggression."Our priority is the fight against terrorism in the three countries," Mali's Defence Minister Abdoulaye Diop told journalists.Three countries struggling to contain militant insurgents, relations with neighbours and partners strained by coups.) Death toll from Libya floods climbs to 11,300 in Derna — UNThe death toll from the catastrophic flooding in Libya's eastern city of Derna has climbed to 11,300, the United Nations said in an update.Another 10,100 people are still missing in the devastated city, the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said late on Saturday.Elsewhere in eastern Libya outside Derna, the flooding took an additional 170 lives, the update said.*) TRT co-production 'Green Border' wins 7 awards at Venice Film FestivalGreen Border, a Türkiye's national broadcaster TRT's co-production directed by Polish master Agnieszka Holland, wins 7 awards at the 80th Venice Film Festival, including the Special Jury Prize."Green Border" tells the compelling story of refugees on the border between Poland and Belarus.The film, supported by prestigious European funds, is a collaboration between Türkiye, Poland, France, the Czech Republic, and Belgium.
) UN calls for $71M in urgent aid for Libya flood victimsThe United Nations is urgently seeking more than $71 million to assist those most in need after deadly flash floods swept Libya over the weekend.Hurricane-strength Storm Daniel slammed into Libya on September 10th, killing 11,300 people according to the Libyan Red Crescent.In a flash appeal on Thursday, the United Nations humanitarian agency OCHA said it expects the final body count to be much higher.) 11 ex-cops convicted in Mexico over killing of 17 migrants near US borderEleven former police officers in Mexico have been found guilty in the murder of 17 migrants who were shot and burned near the United States border.The prosecutor's office said it had "managed to obtain a conviction" against 11 police officers charged with homicide, while another one was found guilty of abuse of office.The victims "lost their lives due to gunshot wounds and were subsequently incinerated", the prosecutor's statement read.) Key Afghan-Pakistan border post reopens week after forces trade fireThe Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan has reopened to pedestrians and vehicles. This comes more than a week after it was closed following a gun-battle between frontier guards of the two neighbours.The border is a constant source of friction between the two nations, with Islamabad frequently complaining that Kabul has failed to secure its frontier.) Zelenskyy expected to visit US as Congress debates $21B in aidIn the latest in the Ukraine war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected on Capitol Hill and at the White House next week. Zelenskyy's trip comes as Congress is debating providing as much as $21 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine as it fights against Russia.Biden has sought a package of $13 billion in additional military aid for Ukraine and $8 billion for humanitarian support.And finally…*) NASA to name UFO research head as panel urges more studyNASA has said it is naming a new director of research into what the government calls "unidentified anomalous phenomenon" or UAP.NASA Administrator Bill Nelson made the announcement after an expert panel issued a report calling on the agency to increase its efforts to gather information on UAP – commonly called UFOs.The new director will also help NASA play a larger role in helping the Pentagon detect UFOs.
) Flood death toll in Libya's Derna city could reach 20,000The estimated number of deaths from devastating floods in Libya's eastern city of Derna could reach 18,000 to 20,000, Derna's mayor has said. It comes as Libya continues to reel from a massive flood that left nearly 4,000 dead and thousands more missing, wreaking havoc in the eastern city of Derna, where bodies wrapped in blankets lined the ravaged streets.The United Nations has pledged $10 million in support for survivors, including at least 30,000 people it said had been left homeless in Derna.) Russia's Putin accepts Kim's invitation to visit North KoreaNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-un has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to his country, during their talks in Russia, Pyongyang's state media reported, adding Putin accepted the invitation.Kim told Putin the meeting in Russia's Far East brought bilateral ties to a new level, and expressed his willingness to foster stable, future-oriented relations for the next 100 years.Both sides agreed to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in the face of the "military threats, provocations and tyranny of imperialists," the state media said.) European Parliament's Türkiye report based on 'disinformation'Türkiye has slammed the European Parliament's 2022 report on the country, saying it is filled with "disinformation" and its claims are disconnected from historical and legal realities. The Turkish Foreign Ministry said that the report is filled with unjust accusations and prejudices which is a reflection of the European Parliament's usual shallow and non-visionary approach towards Türkiye and the EU’s future.It also noted that Türkiye considers it unreasonable for the EU to bring up different approaches, instead of the accession negotiations, at this critical time, for the stability and security of the continent.) Rights groups flag 'dire situation' for asylum-seekers in BritainFamilies seeking asylum in the UK face inadequate living conditions in government-provided temporary housing, affecting their mental and physical health and access to children's education, two leading human rights groups have said.Releasing a new 100-page report, based on joint research with UK groups Just Fair and Human Rights Watch, said they found the "dire" living conditions were the result of "longstanding policy failings".Many asylum-seekers said they had spent months in temporary housing, despite a government target to move families to longer-term accommodation, within 19 days, according to the report.And finally…*) US tech industry bosses endorse regulating AI at rare Washington summitThe United States' biggest technology executives have loosely endorsed the idea of government regulations, for artificial intelligence, at an unusual closed-door meeting in the US Senate. But there is little consensus on what the regulations would look like, and the political path for legislation appears difficult.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said everyone in the room— including almost two dozen tech executives, advocates and skeptics — approved that the government should have a role in the oversight of artificial intelligence.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, September 13th.
*) Death toll from devastating Libya floods tops 5,000 in Derna alone
The death toll from devastating floods in Libya’s eastern city of Derna has risen to 5,300, the country’s official news agency reported.
Earlier the International Committee of the Red Cross said that more than 10,000 people have been reported missing following the devastating floods.
Initial reports indicate that dozens of villages and towns were submerged by the deadly floods caused by Storm Daniel that struck eastern Libya on Sunday.
*) North Korea fires ballistic missiles as Putin welcomes Kim Jong-un in Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin has met North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at a cosmodrome in Russia’s Far East.
Their meeting underscores how the two leaders’ interests are aligning in the face of their separate, intensifying confrontations with the United States.
Hours earlier, North Korea fired two ballistic missiles toward the sea, extending a highly provocative run in North Korean weapons testing since the start of 2022
*) Morocco’s king visits earthquake survivors, donates blood
Morocco’s king has shown solidarity with his suffering nation as it counts the dead from a powerful earthquake.
King Mohammed VI visited some of the injured at a hospital not far from the epicentre and rolled up a sleeve to donate his royal blood.
The earthquake, with its epicentre in the Atlas Mountains, took the lives of more than 2,900 people and injured more than 2,000 others.
*) Crimea’s Sevastopol under Ukrainian attack — Russian official
In the latest in the Ukraine war, Ukraine has carried out a missile attack on Sevastopol in Crimea, wounding at least 24 people.
The Moscow-installed governor of the port city said that the missile attack caused a fire at a “non-civilian facility”.
Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in a broadly condemned move in 2014.
And finally…
*) What’s at stake as Republicans seek to open impeachment inquiry into Biden?
US President Joe Biden is set to face an impeachment inquiry.
The investigation, instigated by the Republicans, will focus on the business dealings of the president’s son Hunter Biden.
The White House has dismissed allegations of wrong-doing as baseless and accused the Republicans of “extreme politics at its worst”.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, September 12th.
*) Thousands reportedly dead after devastating floods in eastern Libya
The confirmed death toll from floods in the eastern Libyan city of Derna has risen above 2,000, local media reported.
Thousands are believed to be missing after Storm Daniel swept several areas in eastern Libya, Libyan News Agency (LANA) reported.
It also reported that entire residential blocks were erased after they were swept away by the floods in Derna.
*) Over 100,000 children affected by powerful Morocco earthquake as toll mounts
Over 100,000 children have been affected by the powerful earthquake that struck Morocco last Friday, the UN Children’s Agency UNICEF has said.
More than 300,000 people have been impacted in Marrakesh and in the High Atlas Mountains following the 6.8 magnitude earthquake, according to UN estimates.
Over 2,800 people have been killed, including children, with thousands more injured, said the country’s Interior Ministry.
Authorities fear that these numbers are only likely to increase.
*) Kim Jong-un in Russia for talks with Putin amid US warning on arms sale
North Korea’s Kim Jong-un is in Russia on a rare overseas trip ahead of a meeting with President Vladimir Putin.
Kim has not travelled outside the North since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. But his last proper overseas trip was in 2019, which was also to Russia to meet Putin.
The latest meeting has sparked warnings from Washington over a possible arms deal for Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
*) US mulls providing long-range missiles to Ukraine
In the latest in the Ukraine war, the Biden administration is close to approving the shipment of longer-range missiles packed with cluster bombs to Ukraine.
This would give Kiev the ability to cause significant damage deeper within Russian-controlled territory, according to US officials.
Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his allies urged Ukrainians to keep their focus squarely on the war effort 18 months into Russia’s attacks.
And finally…
*) Nine small island nations take ocean protection case to UN court
The UN maritime court will hear a landmark case brought by a group of small island states seeking protection from the climate crisis.
The nine island states have turned to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea to determine if carbon dioxide emissions absorbed by the oceans can be considered pollution.
Ocean ecosystems create half the oxygen humans breathe and limit global warming by absorbing much of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activities.
But increasing emissions can warm and acidify seawaters, harming marine life.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, September 11.) Morocco welcomes limited international rescue teams as time runs outRescue teams and residents have been scouring the rubble of buildings in the west of Morocco, as the death toll from Friday's earthquake continues to climb.The number of dead is now officially at 2,122 but that's expected to rise.The United Nations estimates 300,000 people have been affected by the earthquake.Three days of mourning began on Sunday, as the government announced it will begin accepting some international offers of help.) Fresh clashes in Lebanon's Palestinian refugee camp leave many dead, injuredFive people have been killed in renewed clashes between rival Palestinian groups in the Ein El Hilweh refugee camp in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese media.Fifty-two other people were also injured in the violence that erupted between the Fatah movement and armed groups in the camp on Sunday, the National News Agency reported.Fighting between Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s Fatah movement and other armed factions has rocked the El Hilweh refugee camp since Friday.) Russia 'destroys' two Ukrainian drones over Belgorod regionIn the latest in the Ukraine war, Russia has said it destroyed two Ukrainian drones close to the border in the Belgorod region. No casualties were reported.The Ministry of Defence said the incident involved two unmanned aerial vehicles and took place early on Sunday.The Belgorod regional governor said the drones were "shot down" over the Yakovlevsky district, which lies to the north and west of the city.) Thousands rally in Greece as anger mounts against biometric ID cardsThousands of Greeks have rallied in Athens against the impending introduction of biometric ID cards, denouncing what they see as a move towards a surveillance society.The Greek government announced last week that the procedure for obtaining new identity cards would begin on September 25, citing the country’s obligation to comply with European regulations.All members of the European Union must issue new biometric cards by 2026 in line with a 2019 treaty.And finally…*) Spanish football chief Rubiales to step down after kiss rowSuspended Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales has said he will resign from his post because of a scandal caused by forcibly kissing a Women's World Cup player.Rubiales said he is going to resign in an interview with television show "Piers Morgan Uncensored".He sparked a worldwide backlash after forcibly kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony following Spain's World Cup triumph in Sydney last month.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Twin attacks in Mali leave civilians, soldiers deadAt least 49 civilians and 15 soldiers have been killed when militants attacked a military camp and a vessel in northeastern Mali, the interim government has said.Many more also were wounded and the death toll was provisional, according to the statement.Insurgents attacked a boat carrying civilians on flooded plains between Gao and Mopti.Assailants also attacked a military base in the Bourem Circle, an administrative subdivision of the Gao region in Mali's northeast.) North Korea launches new 'tactical nuclear attack' submarineNorth Korea has built a "tactical nuclear attack submarine" as part of its effort to strengthen its naval force, according to the state news agency.North Korean leader Kim Jong-un presided over the unveiling ceremony on Wednesday, saying the new sub was part of a "push forward with the nuclear weaponisation of the Navy in the future."The launching of the submarine, named the Hero Kim Kun Ok, "heralded the beginning of a new chapter for bolstering up the naval force” of North Korea.) Clashes rock Palestinian refugee camp in LebanonClashes have broken out in a restive Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon that was rocked by deadly fighting just weeks ago, according to AFP news agency.Automatic weapon fire and rocket launchers were heard in the country’s southern city of Sidon.Ein El Hilweh is home to more than 54,000 registered refugees.) Hong Kong hit by heaviest rainfall in 140 yearsHong Kong has been flooded by the heaviest rainfall in nearly 140 years, leaving the city's streets and some subway stations underwater and forcing its schools to close.The heavy rainfall in Hong Kong started on Thursday and in the hour leading up to midnight, the city's weather observatory recorded hourly rainfall of 158.1 millimetres at its headquarters, the highest since records began in 1884.Authorities issued flash flood warnings, with emergency services conducting rescue operations in parts of the territory. It also warned of potential landslides, telling motorists to "keep away from steep slopes or retaining walls".And finally…*) Giant refugee puppet 'Little Amal' begins journey across USLittle Amal, a 12-foot puppet of a Syrian refugee, has begun its journey across the United States.During the trip, which started on Thursday from Boston, the puppet and its puppeteers plan to visit key places in American history to raise awareness about refugees and migration.She has become a global symbol for human rights.The name "Amal" means hope in Arabic.The puppet will visit the US Capitol and the trek will end on November 5 along the US-Mexico border, according to the WalkWithAmal organisation.
) US announces new Ukraine aid totalling over $1BUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced new aid for Ukraine, totalling more than 1 billion dollars in a visit to Kiev, in new military and civilian security assistance, also in support for Ukraine's air defences and other areas.Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba [dee-MEET-ro COOL-eh-bah] told top US diplomat Antony Blinken that Washington's support was "not charity", as Ukraine presses ahead with its counteroffensive against Russia.) Over 5M people displaced by months-long conflict in Sudan: IOMMore than 5 million people have now been displaced by the months-long fighting in Sudan, as clashes between the country’s military and a rival paramilitary force, show no sign of easing.According to the International Organization for Migration, over 4 million people have been internally displaced since the conflict erupted in mid-April,- while another 1.1 million have fled to neighbouring countries. More than 750,000 have travelled to either Egypt or Chad.) WHO: Bangladesh facing most severe dengue outbreak on recordBangladesh is experiencing its most severe dengue outbreak on record, the World Health Organization has said, partly blaming the climate crisis for contributing to the spread of such mosquito-borne diseases.WHO chief told an online press conference that more than 300 deaths from dengue were reported last month alone, saying "The outbreak is putting huge pressure on the health system." While cases were beginning to decline in the capital Dhaka, they were increasing in other parts of the country, he added.) Biden bars oil and gas drilling in vast swath of AlaskaUS President Joe Biden's administration has announced it is banning new oil and gas drilling, over a vast region of Alaska that is significant for Indigenous communities, and home to iconic animal species.The decision follows a controversial move by the US government earlier in the year to greenlight a ConocoPhillips project in the same area.The new prohibition covers over 10 million acres, or 40 percent, of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska, an ecologically important region for grizzly and polar bears, caribou and hundreds of thousands of migratory birds.*) 2023 summer broke global record for highest heat ever measured — WMOthe World Meteorological Organization said that earth sweltered through its hottest Northern Hemisphere summer ever measured, with a record-warm August capping a season of brutal and deadly temperatures.Last month was not only the hottest August scientists ever recorded by far, with modern equipment, but it was also the second hottest month measured, behind only July 2023.August was about 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial averages.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, September 6th.) Top court to deliver verdict on abaya ban in French schoolsThe highest French court will deliver its verdict in the next hours on an appeal against the government’s abaya dress ban in schools.A lawyer for the Muslim Rights Action filed an appeal with the Council of State to seek the suspension of the ban on the abaya — a loose-fitting, full-length robe worn by some Muslim students at school.The lawyer said barring students from entering schools because of the abaya is a violation of privacy and personal freedom.) Ex-Proud Boys chief Enrique Tarrio gets 22 years in jail for Capitol riotsFormer Proud Boys leader, Enrique Tarrio, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison, the longest sentence yet in the Capitol rampage, on January 6, 2021.Tarrio’s sentence is one among more than 1,100 Capitol riot cases.It comes as the Justice Department prepares to put former president Donald Trump on trial at the same courthouse in Washington, on charges that the then-president illegally schemed to cling on to power.) Saudi, Iran exchange envoys as part of China-brokered dealSaudi Arabia’s ambassador to Iran has arrived in Iran, and his counterpart landed in Riyadh, cementing a restoration of ties between the Gulf rivals after a seven-year rupture mended by China.Saudi Arabia’s leadership recognises the “importance of strengthening ties, increasing engagement ... and taking the [relationship] to broader horizons,” The Saudi ambassador said upon his arrival in Tehran.Also, Iran’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia arrived in the capital Riyadh, where he was received by Foreign Ministry officials and embassy staff.) DPRK to ‘pay a price’ if it supplies Russia weaponry: USThe White House has warned that North Korea would “pay a price” if it supplies Russia with weaponry for its war in Ukraine, with Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin expected to hold talks on the issue.US President Joe Biden’s national security advisor said Pyongyang and Moscow were eyeing “leader-level discussions, perhaps even in person” on Russia’s arms needs.The Kremlin said on Tuesday it was unable to confirm a summit between Putin and Kim. And finally…*) Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon falls 66% in AugustDeforestation in the Brazilian Amazon fell by 66 percent in August versus the same month last year, the government said, calling it a sign its environmental policies are working.That followed a similar year-on-year drop of 66 percent in July — both crucial months in the Amazon, where deforestation typically surges this time of year with the onset of drier weather.Ex-president Bolsonaro, an ally of the powerful agribusiness industry blamed for driving the destruction, presided over a sharp increase in deforestation in the Amazon from 2019 to 2022.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Black Sea grain deal should be resumed by correcting deficiencies: Erdogan
The Black Sea Grain Initiative should be resumed by addressing deficiencies that hampered the suspended deal, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said following a highly anticipated meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
The two leaders discussed current regional and global issues, as well as bilateral ties. The revival of last year's historic Black Sea grain deal that helped ease the global food crisis was a top issue.
On a joint proposal for grain shipments prepared with the UN, Erdogan said Türkiye would "reach a solution that will meet expectations within a short time."
*) Niger’s military govt aims for French withdrawal, deal with ECOWAS
Niger's military-appointed prime minister has said he saw hopes of a deal "in the coming days" with the Economic Community of West African States, which has threatened to use force to restore civilian rule after a coup in July.
He also said that "contacts" were underway over a "very swift" pullout of French forces from Niger after ties with France spiralled downwards following the military takeover.
The African bloc has slapped hefty sanctions against Niger after rebel soldiers on July 26 overthrew Mohamed Bazoum, the country's democratically-elected president.
*) UN ‘alarmed’ by number of injuries in Eritrean clashes in Israel
The United Nations' rights chief Volker Turk has said he was "alarmed" by the high number of injuries during recent clashes in Israel involving Eritrean protesters.
Trouble erupted when a demonstration against an Eritrean government event turned violent, injuring nearly 140 people, including a dozen Eritrean asylum seekers who were hit by Israeli police gunfire.
According to June’s statistics, there are 17,850 Eritrean asylum seekers in Israel.
*) Pakistan PM: US arms left behind in Afghanistan are in militant hands
Pakistan's caretaker prime minister has said that US military equipment left behind during the American withdrawal from Afghanistan has fallen into militant hands and ultimately made its way to the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan.
The equipment is now “emerging as a new challenge” for Islamabad as it has enhanced the fighting capabilities of the TTP, Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar said.
*) Australia rescues ailing Antarctic researcher in daunting mission
An Australian who fell ill at a remote Antarctic base is returning home on an icebreaker, following a daunting mission to rescue him, authorities said.
The man was working at the Casey research station, when he suffered from what authorities described as a developing medical condition that needed specialist assessment and care.
Two helicopters were deployed from the deck and arrived at the base to rescue the man. He is expected to arrive in Australia next week.
) Anti-UN protests in DR Congo leave 100 deadThe death toll from anti-UN protests last week in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to 100, the head of a platform of youth organisations has said.Lucas Pecos, director of the Collective of Youth Solidarity Organizations in Congo-Kinshasa, which accused the army of committing a massacre last Wednesday, at a church in the city of Goma, in North Kivu province, said it has counted 100 bodies so far.) Pope praises Mongolia religious freedom dating back to Genghis KhanPope Francis has praised Mongolia's tradition of religious freedom dating back to the times of its founder, Genghis Khan, as he opened the first-ever papal visit to the Asian nation with a word of encouragement to its tiny Catholic flock.The Pope met with Mongolian President in a traditional ger, set up inside the state palace. Francis was in Mongolia to meet one of the world's newest and smallest Catholic communities — around 1,450 Mongolians are Catholic — and make a diplomatic foray into a region where the Holy See has long had troubled relations, with Russia to the north and China to the south.) Mission accomplished, India puts moon rover to 'sleep'India switched off its moon rover, the first craft to reach the lunar south pole, after it completed its two-week assignment conducting experiments, the country's space agency said.The Pragyan rover from the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft was "set into Sleep mode" but with batteries charged and receiver on, the Indian Space Research Organisation said.By landing on the moon, India joined the United States, China and the former Soviet Union. It went beyond them in reaching the rugged south pole.) 'This time it is serious': Typhoon Haikui makes landfall in eastern TaiwanTyphoon Haikui made landfall on eastern Taiwan, unleashing torrential downpours, whipping winds and plunging thousands of households into darkness as the first major storm to directly hit the island in four years.Nearly 4,000 people were evacuated from high-risk areas, hundreds of flights cancelled and businesses closed in preparation for the storm.Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau said the typhoon had made landfall in coastal Taitung, a mountainous county in lesser-populated eastern Taiwan.*) Turkish 'Sultans of the Net' reign supreme in European volleyballTürkiye defeated Serbia in a thrilling five-set match to win the 2023 CEV Women's European Volleyball Championship title.The Turkish women's volleyball team won the final on Sunday night with set scores of 27-25, 21-25, 25-22, 22-25, and 15-13 at Brussels. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan congratulated Türkiye on winning the trophy.
) AU suspends membership as Gabon’s general to be sworn in as presidentGeneral Brice Oligui Nguema will be sworn in as transitional president of Gabon on Monday, the army has said.The coup overthrew the 55-year Bongo dynasty, which had ruled the country since independence from France in 1960.The opposition has called for its candidate to be recognised as the winner of weekend elections, which were disputed by the government.The African Union has condemned the coup and suspended Gabon from its activities.) Ecuador jail inmates take dozens hostagePrisoners at a penitentiary in the Ecuadorian city of Cuenca are holding hostage 50 guards and seven police officers, Interior Minister Juan Zapata has said.The mass hostage-taking came a day after hundreds of soldiers and police officers carried out an operation to search for weapons, ammunition, and explosives in one of the country's main penitentiaries in the Andean city of Latacunga in the south.The nation's prisons office said earlier in the day that the hostage-taking was a reprisal for that operation, but authorities later said it was in protest at the transfer of inmates to other prisons.) US cracks down on unlicensed gun sellers amid mass shootingsThe Biden administration is making it harder for people to sell guns without a license and background checks.The Justice Department released rules to follow the Safer Communities Act, passed by Congress in June 2022 in response to mass shootings.The rules will close loopholes that let people sell guns without a license by claiming not to make money from transactions or by saying their lack of a storefront or insignificant sales volume exempts them from dealer requirements.It also tightens the rules on collectors who buy and sell guns, and on failed gun dealers selling their inventories.) Pope visits Mongolia as Vatican ties with China, Russia remain strainedPope Francis visits Mongolia, a Buddhist country with just 1,450 Catholics, in hopes of improving relations with China.The 86-year-old pontiff arrived in Mongolia on a chartered plane with his entourage and reporters.The first event in the capital for Francis is on Saturday, when he addresses government leaders and the diplomatic corps.Pope Francis renewed a deal with China last year on the issue of appointing bishops, and Francis has sought to broker an end to the war in Ukraine with Russia.And finally…*) New York recovers looted Marcus Aurelius statue from TürkiyeA headless bronze statue believed to depict the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius was seized from a museum in Cleveland by New York authorities because they consider it was stolen from Türkiye.The warrant was secured as part of an ongoing investigation into a smuggling network involving antiquities looted from Bubon in southwestern Türkiye and trafficked through Manhattan, authorities said.The museum acquired the statue in 1986 and had been a highlight of its collection of ancient Roman art.The 1.9-metre statue dates from A.D. 180 to 200 and is worth $20 million.
*)Dozens dead, many wounded in building blaze in South Africa's Johannesburg
At least 58 people have been killed and more than 40 wounded following a fire at a multistorey building in downtown Johannesburg, South Africa, local media and emergency workers said. Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said the blaze on Thursday morning engulfed the building located in the city’s central business district. Emergency Management Services said another 43 people were injured in the blaze. Mulaudzi said a search and recovery operation was underway, and it was likely the death toll would rise. *) Gabon junta names new transitional leader Gabon coup leaders have named Republican Guard chief General Brice Oligui Nguema as transitional president in a press release. The military seized control in the wake of elections, cancelling the August 26 general elections, closing all borders until further notice and dissolving all institutions of the republic.
Gabon coup will be the eighth in West and Central Africa since 2020 if successful, ending the Bongo family's 56-year grip on power.
*) Burkina Faso endorses troop deployment to Niger Burkina Faso’s Cabinet has given the government the green light to send troops to help defend neighbouring Niger, where the military deposed President Mohamed Bazoum about a month ago. A Cabinet statement late Wednesday said the government was allowed to deploy a military contingent to Niger “in line with our country's strategic commitments.” Last week, Niger’s military administration authorised troops from neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso to intercede on their side “in the event of aggression” following threats of military intervention by a West African bloc Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) force seeking to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum.
*) N Korea says simulated 'scorched earth' nuclear strikes on South Korea North Korea’s military said they fired two tactical ballistic missiles from the capital to simulate “scorched earth strikes in South Korea. The official Korean Central News Agency said that North Korea has been rehearsing an occupation of its rivals’ territory in the event of conflict.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff called the launches “a grave provocation” that threatens international peace and violates UN Security Council resolutions which ban any ballistic launches by North Korea.
And finally… *) Idalia weakens after devastating florida as category 3 hurricane
Tropical Storm Idalia weakens after fierce Florida landfall as Category 3 hurricane, causing widespread devastation.
The storm splintered trees, tore off roofs, and inundated roads, prompting evacuations in Florida's Big Bend region. Despite its downgrade, Idalia maintains destructive force, prompting President Biden to emphasise the climate crisis' impact.
Thousands remain without power in both Florida and Georgia as utility crews rush to restore electricity.
*) President Erdogan to visit Russia 'soon', raising hopes over the grain deal
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Russia's coastal city of Sochi "soon", raising hopes of revival of the Black Sea grain deal.
Currently, Türkiye is continuing its efforts to revive the grain deal, and says that there is no alternative to the initiative, seen as crucial to ensuring global food security.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is also expected to visit Russia soon to hold face-to-face talks for resumption of the deal.
*) Judge rejects Trump plea for delay, sets March 2024 trial in poll case
US District Judge Tanya Chutkan has set a March 4, 2024, trial date for Donald Trump in the federal case in Washington, where the former president is charged with trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election.
Trump’s attorneys had requested to push back the trial by years, claiming that it is necessary to account for the huge volume of evidence they say they are reviewing and to prepare for what they contend is a novel and unprecedented prosecution.
However, the judge rejected their request saying, “The public has a right to a prompt and efficient resolution of this matter”.
*) Germany reports over 250 anti-Muslim crimes in first half of this year
German police have recorded 258 anti-Muslim crimes in the first half of 2023, according to figures by the parliament.
According to the information provided by the ministry, the cases include hate crimes, threatening letters, verbal and physical assaults, vandalism or property damage.
More than a dozen mosques were attacked between January and June, and dozens of Muslims were physically assaulted or verbally harassed on the street or in public places. Seventeen people were injured in these attacks.
Most of the crimes were committed in the eastern German states, the traditional stronghold of far-right parties, according to the figures. But scores of these hate crimes were also registered in the capital Berlin, and the western cities of Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich.
*) Sudan army chief promises 'decisive victory', rejects talks with 'traitors'
Sudan's army chief General Abdel Fattah al Burhan has quashed hopes of a negotiated settlement to the protracted conflict, terming his rival general a “traitor” and vowing to crush the paramilitary RSF.
Burhan's speech came one day after the head of the RSF expressed openness to talks and a long-term ceasefire.
An estimated 4,000 people have died and millions have been driven from their homes since the conflict between the army and the RSF began in April.
Burhan has embarked on a tour of bases in army-controlled regions and is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia and Egypt, prompting some to speculate that a deal was imminent.
*) From the Moon to the Sun: India announces next space mission
India's space agency says it will launch a satellite to survey the Sun, just days after becoming the first nation to land a craft near the Moon's largely unexplored south pole.
"The launch of Aditya-L1, the first space-based Indian observatory to study the Sun, is scheduled for September 2," the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said on Monday on X.
*) Aleppo airport out of service after Israeli strikes on Assad regime
An Israeli air strike hits the international airport in the city of Aleppo in northern Syria, damaging a runway and putting it out of service.
Israel has targeted airports and seaports in the government-held parts of Syria in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to armed groups backed by Tehran, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah.
Thousands of Iran-backed fighters from around the region joined Syria’s 12-year conflict helping tip the balance in favour of regime leader Bashar al Assad's forces.
*) France announces ban on Muslim overgarment 'abaya' in schools
France plans to ban the abaya, a long loose-fitting overgarment worn by some Muslim women, on school grounds, the country's education minister said. Gabriel Attal has told broadcaster TF1 that the government intends to convey "clear rules" on the matter to school officials across the country. The decision is the latest in several limitations on Islamic clothing in France, where critics say the government has targeted Muslims with statements and policies in recent years. ) Zimbabwe's opposition claims victory, disputing president's re-election Zimbabwe's opposition leader Nelson Chamisa contested the official re-election of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and claimed victory in an election which international observers said fell short of democratic standards. Mnangagwa, 80, won a second term with 52.6 percent of the ballots against 44 percent for his main challenger, Chamisa, 45, according to official results. Zimbabweans voted Wednesday and Thursday for a president and new parliament, in polling marred by delays that sparked opposition accusations of rigging and voter suppression. ) Murder charges against Pakistan’s ex-Premier Khan dismissed Murder charges against former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan were dismissed,, his lawyer said. Khan is already in jail over graft charges. He is facing nearly 150 cases ever since being removed from power last year in April. And finally… *) Climate activists target super-rich in string of protests against luxury
Climate activists spray paint a superyacht, block private jets from taking off and plug holes in golf courses this summer as part of an intensifying campaign against the emissions-spewing lifestyles of the ultrawealthy. Climate activism has intensified in the past few years as the planet warms to dangerous levels, igniting more extreme heat, floods, storms and wildfires around the world. They’re now turning their attention to the wealthy, after long targeting some of the world’s most profitable companies – oil and gas conglomerates, banks and insurance firms that continue to invest in fossil fuels.
*) Trump surrenders at Fulton County Jail in Georgia election subversion case
Former US President Donald Trump has turned himself in to authorities in Fulton County, Georgia to be booked on charges tied to alleged efforts to overturn the state’s results of the 2020 presidential election. He was released on a $200,000 bond nearly 20 minutes after being booked at the county Jail, where he was fingerprinted and had his mugshot taken, becoming the first US president in history to do so.
Trump reappeared on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, marking his first post there since January 2021, as he shared an image of his mugshot with the words: "ELECTION INTERFERENCE! NEVER SURRENDER!"
The former president faces 13 criminal counts, including violations of the Georgia state RICO Act, solicitation of violation of oath by a public officer, conspiracy to impersonate a public officer and conspiracy to commit false statements.
*) Bangladesh protests mark six years since Rohingya exodus
Thousands of Rohingya refugees have rallied at camps in Bangladesh to demand their safe return to Myanmar on the sixth anniversary of the 2017 military crackdown.
Bangladesh is home to around a million members of the stateless minority, most of whom fled the crackdown now subject to a genocide probe at the International Criminal Court.
Malnutrition and violence have continued to plague the camps, which are home to armed groups and are used as staging posts for regional drug trafficking networks.
Bangladesh and Myanmar are working on a pilot programme to begin returning the Rohingya to their homes, despite concerns from rights groups who say conditions are not safe for their return.
*) Wagner boss Prigozhin’s plane brought down intentionally: US intelligence
A preliminary US intelligence assessment has concluded that an intentional explosion caused the plane crash that killed Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.
One of the US and Western officials who described the initial assessment said it determined that Prigozhin was “very likely” targeted. The explosion is widely believed to be possible vengeance for the Wagner group’s attempted mutiny in June that posed the biggest challenge to President Vladimir Putin’s 23-year rule. Russian authorities have said the cause of the crash is under investigation.
*) 'Sins of the past': Guyana President demands reparations for slave trade
Guyana president Irfaan Ali has lashed out at descendants of European slave traders, saying those who profited from the cruel, trans-Atlantic slave trade should offer to pay reparations to today’s generations.
The leader of the South American country also proposed that those involved in the slave trade be posthumously charged for crimes against humanity.
Ali spoke ahead of Friday’s planned formal apology in Guyana by the descendants of a Scottish 19th-century sugar and coffee plantation owner, saying the apology should also include issues of compensation and reparative justice.
*) Pressure mounts on Olaf Scholz as German economy takes a battering
Stagnant growth, high inflation and manufacturing weakness – the challenges facing the German economy will be at the top of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's agenda when political life fully resumes following the summer break.
The outlook for a country long lauded as Europe's industrial powerhouse is deteriorating, with the International Monetary Fund forecasting it will be the only major advanced economy to shrink this year.
Problems include weakness in the vast industrial sector and a lacklustre performance by exports, both of which have major impacts for the whole of the economy.
*) Ex-PM Thaksin jailed on return to Thailand after 15 years in exile
Thailand's former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was sent to jail on Tuesday shortly after he returned to the kingdom after 15 years in exile.
The latest political development comes just hours before parliament votes to install his party's candidate as new prime minister.
At the airport in Bangkok, the 74-year-old billionaire was greeted by hundreds of supporters waving banners and singing songs, demonstrating how he has retained an outsized influence despite his long absence.
*) Russia says jet 'destroys' Ukraine reconnaissance boat in Black Sea
Russia's defence ministry said that one of its Sukhoi jets had "destroyed" a Ukrainian "reconnaissance boat" in the Black Sea.
The vessel reportedly sailed near a Russian gas production facility prompting a response from Moscow.
Earlier, Russia claimed that its ships were targeted by a Ukrainian naval drone attack.
*) BRICS summit of emerging economies to begin in South Africa
Leaders of the BRICS nations are due in South Africa to discuss expanding membership amid a push to forge the bloc as a counterweight to the West.
South Africa's president, Cyril Ramaphosa will host Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazil's Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the country’s largest city, Johannesburg, from Tuesday to Thursday.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, however, is skipping the meeting amid concerns that he could be arrested due to an outstanding international warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine.
Over 40 countries said they are interested in joining BRICS, but India and Brazil have expressed some reservation, over concerns that the expansion could dilute the bloc’s global influence.
*) Japan to start releasing Fukushima water on Thursday
Japan is expected to release on Thursday the water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant, 12 years after one of the world's worst nuclear disasters.
The nuclear plant was knocked out by a massive earthquake and tsunami that killed around 18,000 people in March 2011.
Japan insists the gradual release of the water is safe, but there are concerns that the more than 500 Olympic swimming pools' worth of water is contaminated.
The operator of the plant said the water has been filtered to remove all radioactive substances except the chemical tritium, adding that the amount to be released are far below dangerous levels.
*) Kenya's young Maasai reconnect with their culture at Eunoto ceremony
Hundreds of young Kenyan men have come to a village in the country’s south to join a ceremony reconnecting them with their culture and traditions.
Aged between 18 and 26, the young men all descended from the same generation of Maasai warriors.
For centuries, Maasai men have gone through rites of passage which have been inscribed since 2018 on the UNESCO list of intangible heritage in need of safeguarding.
For many, it is a matter of survival to preserve the traditions and culture of the most famous of Kenya's 45 tribes.
*) 'Public knows who I am': Trump to skip Republican primary debates
New opinion polls reveal that more than 60 percent of Republican voters prefer former President Donald Trump, while Ron DeSantis, his closest competitor, captures 16 percent of GOP voters' favour.
Trump says he would skip the upcoming Republican primary debates, citing his popularity and recognition among voters as a testament to his standing ahead of the 2024 election.
On a different note, he faces a deadline of Friday to turn himself in voluntarily in Fulton County, Georgia, following his recent indictment on criminal charges.
*) Live blog: Ukraine nears deal with insurers to cover grain ships - report
Ukraine is in the process of finalising an arrangement with international insurance companies to provide coverage for grain vessels navigating to and from its Black Sea ports.
The scheme is currently under active discussion, involving various government ministries, domestic banks, and global insurance entities such as Lloyd's of London, as reported by the Financial Times.
*) Israel to spend $843M on tightening control over occupied East Jerusalem
In an effort to enhance its control over occupied East Jerusalem, the Israeli government has introduced a budget proposal aimed at transforming the area's landscape in the next five years.
The government has allocated 3.2 billion Israeli shekels ($843 million) to invest in occupied East Jerusalem from 2024 to 2028, according to an official statement.
The Israeli government claims the purpose of this endeavour is to tackle social disparities and stimulate economic growth.
*) China cuts key interest rate to put fizz back into flagging economy
China's central bank reduces a significant interest rate to combat the economic slowdown following the Covid-19 pandemic.
The world's second-largest economy is grappling with reduced market activity driven by labour market uncertainties and a sluggish global economy, resulting in weakened demand for Chinese products.
Despite the economic downturn causing concerns in global markets, Beijing asserts that this trend is transitory.
*) Spain World Cup hero Carmona pays tribute to father who died before final
Olga Carmona, Spain's Women's World Cup hero, pays homage to her father for giving her the strength "to achieve something unique" after learning of his death following the country's 1-0 triumph against England.
The 23-year-old defender scored the game-winning goal in Sydney on Sunday, helping La Roja win the World Cup for the first time in their history.
"We love you, Olga, you are in the history of Spanish football," the Spanish federation (RFEF) remarked.
*) Russia says shot down Ukraine drones southwest of Moscow
Russia's defence ministry has said it shot down three Ukrainian drones southwest of Moscow, the latest in a surge of aerial attacks near the capital.
Ukraine launched the attack at 0200 GMT (5:00 am local time) using "three unmanned aerial vehicles on objects in the Kaluga region", the ministry said on Telegram.
Kaluga's governor Vladislav Shapsha said there was no damage or injury to people or infrastructure.
The air attack is at least the fifth this month over the Kaluga region that Russia says it has thwarted.
*) Azerbaijan finds new mass grave in area liberated from Armenia
Azerbaijan has discovered a new mass grave site in the city of Shusha in the Karabakh region, local media reported.
According to state news agency Azertac, the remains of 17 people were uncovered in the territory of Shusha prison during excavations conducted between August 1-15 by Azerbaijan’s State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Persons.
In June, Azertac reported the discovery of a mass grave in the Saricali village of Agdam district, where the remains of four people were found.
The Karabakh region has been the site of mass killings and burials since the First Karabakh War in the early 1990s during the Armenian occupation.
*) UN says Taliban's restrictions on Afghan women 'crime against humanity'
The United Nations has said that the International Criminal Court should recognise gender discrimination in Afghanistan as a crime against humanity.
UN Special Envoy for Global Education Gordon Brown has said 54 of 80 edicts issued by the Taliban explicitly target women and girls and deprive them of their rights.
The international community continues to grapple with how, and if, to engage with the Taliban authorities, with restrictions on women's rights being a key obstacle.
*) Deadly clashes between rival militias in Libya leave 27 dead, authorities say
Deadly clashes between rival militias in Libya's capital have killed at least 27 people and left residents trapped in their homes unable to escape the violence, medical authorities said.
The fighting appears to be the most intense to shake Tripoli this year. Tensions flared on Monday after Mahmoud Hamza, a senior commander of the 444 brigade, was allegedly detained by rival group Special Deterrence Force at an airport in Tripoli, reports said. And finally…
*) Hawaii wildfire death toll exceeds 100
The number of people known to have died in the horrific wildfire that levelled a Hawaiian town has topped 100, the state's governor said, as a makeshift morgue was expanded to deal with the tragedy.
Governor Josh Green has repeatedly warned that the final count from last week's inferno in Lahaina would grow significantly.
The wildfire is already the deadliest in the US in over a century.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, August 15th.
*) Afghanistan’s Taliban government marks two years of return to power
Afghanistan’s Taliban government has marked the second anniversary of their takeover of the country with celebrations and a public holiday, issuing a defiant statement commemorating their surge back to power.
A statement from the authorities early Tuesday hailed a victory that was able to “pave the way for the establishment of the Islamic system in Afghanistan”.
The international community continues to grapple with how, and if, to engage with the Taliban authorities, with restrictions on women’s rights being a key obstacle.
*) A rights group says it can’t get access to detained officials in Niger
Human rights activists in Niger say they have been unable to gain access to top political officials detained after mutinous soldiers ousted the democratically elected president nearly three weeks ago.
The junta has been holding President Mohamed Bazoum, his wife and son under house arrest in their compound in the capital. Those close to Bazoum say his electricity and water have been cut off and he’s running out of food.
The junta says it plans to prosecute Bazoum for “high treason” and undermining state security. If convicted, he could face the death penalty, according to Niger’s penal code.
*) Two Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in West Bank
Israeli forces have shot and killed two Palestinians, including a 16-year-old, in a military raid in the occupied West Bank, Palestinian health officials said.
“Two young men were rushed to the hospital with bullets in their chests,” the Jericho Hospital’s director said early Tuesday.
The Palestinian Health Ministry identified those killed as Qusay al Walaji, 16, and Mohammed Nujoom, 25.
The raid took place in the Jericho area, which has seen heavy fighting over the last 16 months. The Israeli military had no immediate comment.
*) Russia strikes western Ukraine in deadly large-scale air attack
Russia has launched a large-scale air attack on Ukraine’s western region of Lviv and the northwestern region of Volyn, killing three people, injuring others and forcing evacuations, officials said.
Ukrainian media reported that according to preliminary information, Tuesday’s attack was the largest air assault on the Lviv region, which borders NATO member Poland, since the start of Russia’s offensive.
Governor of Volyn, Yuriy Poguliaiko, has said Russia’s air strikes on the city of Lutsk killed three people and left several wounded in hospital.
And finally…
*) Georgia slaps mobster law to indict Trump, others in 2020 election plot
Donald Trump and 18 others have been indicted in Georgia for scheming to overturn his 2020 election loss in the state.
Prosecutors have turned to a statute normally associated with mobsters to accuse the former president, lawyers and other top aides.
The 97-page indictment details dozens of acts by Trump and his co-defendants to undo his defeat in the battleground state. It also outlines a scheme to tamper with voting machines in one Georgia county and steal data.
As indictments mount, Trump — the leading Republican candidate for president in 2024 — has been portraying himself as the victim of Democratic prosecutors during his campaigning and fundraising.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, August 2nd.
*) Far-right populist tops Argentina’s presidential primary in shock result
Far-right Javier Milei rocked Argentina’s political establishment by emerging as the biggest vote-getter in primary elections to choose presidential candidates.
Milei says Argentina’s Central Bank should be abolished, thinks the climate crisis is a lie, believes the sale of human organs should be legal and wants to make it easier to own handguns.
*) France opens probe into death of six Afghan migrants in Channel shipwreck
French prosecutors have taken over the investigation into the death of at least six migrants whose boat sank trying to cross the Channel between France and England.
Prosecutors in the channel port of Boulogne opened an investigation on Saturday, hours after the tragedy, but the investigation was switched to Paris.
Most of those on board were Afghans with some Sudanese “and a few minors”, said the French coastal authority Premar.
*) Niger’s military regime to ‘prosecute’ President Bazoum for ‘high treason’
Niger’s coup leaders that toppled Mohamed Bazoum said they would “prosecute” the deposed president for “high treason” and “undermining the security” of the country.
Earlier on Sunday, the head of a religious delegation of mediators said that the leader of the military junta, is ready to consider a diplomatic solution to the country’s stand-off with the West African bloc ECOWAS.
*)Strikes on Odessa leave 3 wounded; Zelenskyy vows justice for Kherson attack
At least three people were wounded in two-waves of Russian drone and missile attacks overnight on the port city of Odessa, officials said.
The Operational Command South said on Telegram that Ukraine has downed three waves of Russian missiles and drones targeting Odessa.
Air defence forces repelled all the attacks, but falling debris damaged a student dormitory and a supermarket in Odessa’s city centre, leaving three workers wounded.
*) Google Doodle celebrates Turkish astronomer Nuzhet Gokdogan
And finally, Google Doodle has commemorated the achievements of Nuzhet Gokdogan, widely hailed as one of Türkiye’s earliest female astronomers.
Gokdogan played a pivotal role in establishing the Turkish Astronomy Association, the Turkish Association of University Women, and the Turkish Mathematics Association, organisations that continue to shape the scientific landscape of Türkiye.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Russia reportedly lays siege to Ukraine's Kupiansk
Russian forces have almost reached the outskirts of the Ukrainian city of Kupiansk, state news agency TASS reported.
TASS said Ukrainian troops are abandoning their positions and just "a number of kilometres are left to pass."
Ukraine denied the report, saying all Russian attacks were repelled and attempts to lay siege were unsuccessful.
*) Earthquake rattles eastern Türkiye, causing panic
A magnitude 5.3 earthquake has struck eastern Türkiye, according to the nation's disaster management agency, AFAD.
Residents in the region were seen moving to open areas to protect themselves from building destruction.
Twenty-three people were injured as a result of panic, but there were no reports of death, according to Health Minister Fahrettin Koca.
*) Ivory Coast: ECOWAS approves Niger intervention ‘as soon as possible’
West African bloc ECOWAS approved military intervention in Niger "as soon as possible" to remove its military rulers following last month's coup, Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara has said.
Earlier Thursday, the leaders of the bloc said they would deploy a "standby force" against the military leaders who seized control of Niger, deposing Mohamed Bazoum as president.
Ouattara said Ivory Coast would provide hundreds of men alongside soldiers from Nigeria and Benin, and that other countries would join them.
*) Several Somali soldiers killed in Mogadishu bomb explosion: local media
Several Somali soldiers have been killed in a bomb explosion in the capital Mogadishu, according to local media.
Local broadcaster Radio Shabelle said the incident took place when a military vehicle drove over a landmine planted on the road near Darussalam area.
Quoting a witness, the broadcaster said all six Somali soldiers aboard the vehicle died.
*) Hollywood strike causes Emmy Awards to be delayed
The Emmy Awards, postponed due to the Hollywood strike, now have a new date that aligns them with the heart of Hollywood's awards season, marking a notable shift.
Fox announced that the Emmys will air on January 15 from the Peacock Theater at LA Live in downtown Los Angeles.
The ceremony will happen roughly four months later than originally planned.
*) Ecuador's presidential candidate shot dead after campaign rally Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio has been shot dead after holding a rally in Quito.
President Guillermo Lasso confirmed Villavicencio's death in a statement on social media, vowing that "this crime will not go unpunished." The 59-year-old centrist was one of eight candidates in the first round of the presidential election scheduled for August 20.
*) Wildfires engulf Hawaii, killing multiple people and displacing many A wildfire tore through the heart of Maui with alarming speed and ferocity, destroying dozens of homes and businesses in a historic tourist town of the US state of Hawaii.
The fire killed at least six people and injured at least two dozen others, forcing panicked residents to jump into the ocean to flee the flames. It was widespread in Lahaina Town, including on Front Street, a popular shopping and dining area, County of Maui spokesperson Mahina Martin said.
*) UN concerned over deplorable living conditions of Niger’s president UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over the reportedly deplorable conditions that Niger’s president and his family are living under while in arbitrary detention.
A UN spokesperson issued a statement following reports that Mohamed Bazoum and his family are living without electricity, water, food or medicine. Guterres once again called for his immediate, unconditional release and his reinstatement as head of state.
*) Pakistan president dissolves parliament on advice of prime minister Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has dissolved the country’s parliament on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the President's Office said. Alvi signed the advice half an hour after it was sent by Sharif late on Wednesday night, paving the way for a caretaker setup that will hold general elections.
The federal Cabinet automatically stood dissolved following the signing of the summary. Sharif will continue to serve as acting prime minister until the caretaker premier takes an oath.
*) Biden restricts US investments in Chinese technology President Joe Biden has signed an executive order that would block and regulate high-tech US-based investments in China.
The order covers advanced computer chips, microelectronics, quantum information technologies, and artificial intelligence. Senior administration officials said that the effort stemmed from national security goals, rather than economic interests and that the categories it covered were narrow in scope.
*) UN gets authorisation to deliver aid to quake-hit northern Syria
United Nations will resume aid deliveries to Syria through the Bab al Salam and Al Rai border crossings from Türkiye until November 13.
The Syrian regime agreed to a second three-month extension of two border crossings opened to UN humanitarian workers after the February earthquake and was due to close on August 13.
The February 6 quakes in Türkiye and Syria killed more than 55,000 people.
*) Russia shoots down Ukraine's drones targeting Moscow – mayor
Russian forces have downed two combat drones headed for Moscow, the city's mayor said, the latest in a surge of drone attacks targeting the capital.
He said one drone was downed on the southern outskirts of the city, while the second was shot down in the Minsk highway area, west of the capital.
According to Russian officials, the strikes are at least the third attack on Moscow within a week, with Ukrainian drones downed on Sunday and Monday.
*) Diplomacy best for Niger, force still on table: Nigeria
Nigeria's president and head of the West African bloc ECOWAS, Bola Tinubu, has not ruled out military intervention in Niger, but believes diplomacy is the "best way forward" to resolve the crisis, his spokesperson has said.
Tinubu weighed in for the first time since the soldiers behind the coup in Niger defied the bloc's Sunday deadline to reinstate elected President Mohamed Bazoum or face the possible use of force.
Meanwhile, efforts by ECOWAS and the United States to parlay with Niger's new rulers have made no headway ahead of a crisis summit in the Nigerian capital Abuja on Thursday.
*) Jailed ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan's lawyers file legal challenge
Lawyers for former Pakistan PM Imran Khan filed an appeal against his conviction for graft.
Imran Khan is incarcerated in a century-old prison at the beginning of a three-year term.
Unless overturned, the conviction will rule him out of contesting upcoming elections.
Pakistan's election commission on Tuesday issued a statement officially disqualifying Khan for five years.
And finally…
*) Amazon nations agree to fight deforestation
Eight South American countries have agreed to launch an alliance to fight deforestation in the Amazon, vowing at a summit in Brazil to stop the world's biggest rainforest from reaching "a point of no return."
The closely watched summit of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) adopted on Tuesday what host country Brazil called a "new and ambitious shared agenda" to save the rainforest.
The group's members signed a joint declaration in Belem, near the Amazon River, laying out a nearly 10,000-word roadmap to promote sustainable development, end deforestation and fight the organized crime that fuels it.
*) Niger junta appoints transitional prime minister
Niger’s junta has appointed a transitional prime minister more than a week after the military coup that toppled President Mohamed Bazoum.
Economist Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine has been appointed by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the former commander of Niger's presidential guard, who declared himself the head of a transitional government.
The West African regional bloc ECOWAS is to hold another emergency summit on Thursday in Nigeria to address the political crisis in Niger.
*) US to announce $200M in new arms aid for Ukraine
US President Joe Biden's administration is set to announce $200 million of new weapons aid for Ukraine as it begins to dole out $6.2 billion of funds discovered after a Pentagon accounting error, according to two American officials.
Ukraine needs weaponry that can be shipped from US stocks in a matter of days or weeks in order to keep up its fight against Russia's offensive. Washington is currently working on a supplemental budget request to continue to aid Kiev, a US official said.
*) Palestinian premier, members of US Congress discuss reviving political process
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh has held discussions with members of the US Congress on ways to revive Washington’s role in preserving the two-state solution and recognising the Palestinian state.
The meeting was held in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah with a delegation of 22 members of the Democratic party.
Shtayye said Israel violates international law every day through killings, military raids and the expansion of illegal settlements.
He said the continuation of the status quo will lead to a shift towards a single state with an apartheid regime.
*) Greece 'relatively hopeful' for advancing relations, dialogue with Türkiye
Greece is hopeful to further relations and political dialogue with Türkiye, according to the country’s foreign minister.
In an interview with Egypt's Al Qahera TV, George Gerapetritis remarked that he and his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan have developed a channel of communication.
“What we want to do is to try to promote a positive agenda with issues of common interest, such as trade, economy, civil protection, tourism, the overall development of the two countries, and then work on our relationships,” Gerapetritis said.
A fresh round of talks of the Türkiye-Greece High-Level Cooperation Council is expected to be held in Thessaloniki this fall.
*) South American leaders' summit seeks ambitious roadmap to save Amazon
Brazilian President Lula and fellow South American leaders seek an ambitious roadmap to stop deforestation at a meeting of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization in Belem.
Brazilian leaders face pressure to set out bold solutions to save the damaged Amazon as they open a summit on the world's biggest rainforest.
Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said the summit would produce a joint declaration setting out "instructions" to implement "new targets and new tasks" to protect the rainforest.
*) Niger waits for West African bloc's response after junta rejects ultimatum
Niger waits on for a response from the West African regional bloc after coup leaders in the capital city Niamey ignored a deadline to reinstate the ousted president.
The Economic Community of West African States has warned that a failure to reverse the coup could lead it to authorise a military intervention.
The bloc has said it will issue a statement on its next steps in response to the junta's refusal to stand down by Sunday following the July 26 power grab.
*) Sudanese army strikes RSF positions near presidential palace
The Sudanese Armed Forces have conducted their first aerial bombardment of positions of the Rapid Support Forces in the presidential palace - controlled by the paramilitary group since April.
RSF positions in the three cities known as the tripartite capital - Khartoum, Omdurman and Bahri - also came under heavy artillery fire from the army.
Intense clashes have been ongoing for over 100 days between the army and the RSF, particularly in strategic areas around the capital and in the western part of the country.
*) Peace talks on Ukraine to continue following Jeddah meeting
Talks in the Saudi city of Jeddah on the Ukraine conflict have concluded with participants agreeing on the importance of continuing consultations for peace efforts.
More than 40 countries, including China, India, the United States and European countries, excluding Russia, took part in the Jeddah talks that ended on Sunday.
Ukraine and its allies called for international support for principles that Kiev wants to be the basis for peace, including the withdrawal of all Russian troops and the return of all Ukrainian territory.
Moscow called the meeting a doomed attempt to swing the Global South behind Kiev.
*) Jailed former Pakistan PM Imran Khan's lawyers to launch legal challenge
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's lawyers attempt to launch legal challenges against his three year-sentence for graft that has ruled him out of contesting national elections.
The former international cricket star was arrested at his home on Saturday and taken to jail for charges he has previously said are politically motivated.
Petitions have been filed in Islamabad and Lahore High Courts have demanded power of attorney for Khan, which would allow lawyers to challenge his conviction.
And finally…
*) Saudi Arabia sends its 19th aid plane to Türkiye for quake victims
Saudi Arabia has sent its 19th aid plane for victims affected by Türkiye’s February 6 earthquakes. The plane, carrying more than 27 tonnes of medical supplies and equipment, departed on Sunday from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and headed to Gaziantep Airport in southeastern Türkiye. It was sent as part of Saudi Arabia's "aid bridge" established for earthquake victims in Türkiye and Syria.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, August 4th.
*) Donald Trump pleads ‘not guilty’ to all charges in 2020 election probe
Former US president Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to trying to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.
Trump appeared before a magistrate judge in Washington’s federal courthouse two days after being indicted on four felony counts by Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith.
The charges accuse him of trying to subvert the will of voters and undo his election loss in the days before January 6, 2021, when supporters stormed the US Capitol.
*) Niger to respond ‘immediately’ to any ‘aggression’ from ECOWAS
Niger’s junta has said it would respond immediately to any “aggression or attempted aggression” against it by West African countries.
ECOWAS has threatened the potential use of force if the junta does not restore ousted President Mohamed Bazoum by Sunday.
The landlocked nation is the fourth member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) hit by a putsch since 2020.
*) Russia ‘destroys’ Ukraine’s drones targeting Novorossiysk port
Ukrainian sea drones have attacked a Russian navy base near the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk , a major hub for Russian exports.
The drones were destroyed by Russian warships, Russia’s defence ministry has said.
The attack prompted the Novorossiysk port to temporarily halt all ship movement.
Separately, Russian air defences downed 10 Ukrainian drones over Crimea and suppressed three more with electronic countermeasures.
*) China to lift tariffs on Australian barley
China has said it will remove extra tariffs on Australian barley, in the latest thawing of ties between the two after years of tensions.
China had slapped hefty levies on key Australian exports such as barley and beef in 2020 at the height of a bitter dispute with the former conservative government.
But their icy relations appear to have thawed since Australia’s centre-left government adopted a less confrontational approach to China following its election a year ago.
And finally…
*) Freddie Mercury’s private collection goes on display in UK
From fanciful costumes and working drafts of “Bohemian Rhapsody”, hundreds of items that Freddie Mercury owned have gone on show in Britain.
Sotheby’s transformed its central London gallery to resemble the Queen frontman’s former home in the UK capital for the month-long exhibition ahead of its sale.
The singer-songwriter, who died in 1991, had assembled an array of “treasures” which had been left largely untouched at his one-time West London house.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, August 3rd.
*) Türkiye will continue intense efforts for grain deal resumption — Erdogan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has told his Russian counterpart that Türkiye will continue to carry out “intense” efforts and diplomacy for the resumption of the Black Sea grain deal.
Erdogan said that the long-term suspension of the Black Sea Initiative will not benefit anyone, adding that the low-income countries in need of grain will suffer the most.
*) Niger junta chief rejects sanctions, refuses to ‘bow down’ to threats
The leader of the coup that toppled Niger’s president has said that French citizens had no reason to quit the country, but rejected international sanctions, vowing not to bow to “threats”.
Responding to the international sanctions imposed in response to the coup, General Abdourahamane Tiani said the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) “rejects these sanctions as a whole and refuses to give in to any threat, wherever it comes from”.
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders have imposed trade and financial sanctions and threatened the use of force if the junta does not restore ousted President Mohamed Bazoum by Sunday.
*) China’s call for counter-espionage concerns US
The United States has raised concerns over a Chinese call to encourage its citizens to join counter-espionage work and said it has been closely monitoring the implementation of Beijing’s expanded anti-spying law.
Washington’s statement comes after China’s Ministry of State Security said China should encourage its citizens to join counter-espionage work, including creating channels for individuals to report suspicious activity and rewarding them for doing so.
A system that makes it “normal” for regular people to participate in counter-espionage should be established, the ministry said.
*) Inter-religious clashes displace Muslims in north India
A sense of dread hangs over Nuh, a small town in north India’s Haryana state, where Muslims are in the majority, as the town and nearby districts were engulfed in “communal violence”, a reference made in India for inter-religious clashes.
As the police have imposed a strict curfew, some local accounts suggest that dozens of Muslim families have fled their homes, fearing both a second round of mob attack led by radical Hindu outfits and arbitrary police detentions.
The violence that erupted during a religious procession by Hindus in Nuh early this week killed at least seven people.
And finally…
*) Hollywood studios, writers to restart talks amid strike
Hollywood studios will meet with writers this week to discuss reopening talks for the first time since a strike began nearly 100 days ago.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) walkout, which kicked off May 2 over pay and the threat of artificial intelligence, has brought US film and television production to a halt.
Writers have been joined on the picket lines since last month by the much larger Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) ramping up pressure on the likes of Disney and Netflix to return to negotiations.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) US indicts Donald Trump
Former US President Donald Trump has been charged over his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in the run-up to the Capitol attack by his supporters.
The charges include conspiracy to defraud the government and witness tampering to subvert the peaceful transfer of power.
The indictment is the third criminal case brought against the former president as he seeks to reclaim the White House in 2024.
*) Niger reopens borders with limited countries
Niger's land and air borders with five neighbouring countries have been reopened, nearly a week after they were closed following a coup that overthrew elected President Mohamed Bazoum.
"The land and air borders with Algeria, Burkina Faso, Libya, Mali and Chad are reopened" from "today", a soldier announced on national television.
The move came hours after the first French evacuation flight took off and five days before a deadline to restore constitutional order issued by a bloc of West African countries.
*) Russian drone strikes Odessa port, causes fire
A Russian drone strike has damaged port infrastructure in Ukraine's southern Odessa region on the Black Sea coast, the regional governor has said.
"As a result of the attack, fires broke out at the facilities of the port and industrial infrastructure of the region, and an elevator was damaged," Oleg Kiper said.
The governor added that emergency services were on-site and there were no reports of casualties.
*) Tunisia's President Saied dismisses PM
Tunisian President Kais Saied has appointed Ahmed Hachani as the new prime minister, replacing Najla Bouden, who ended her duties, the Tunisian presidency has said.
Hachani, who served as human resources director at Tunisia's central bank, becomes premier amid a deepening economic and social crisis in the country.
The president has repeatedly blamed officials and the government for failing to address problems and poor public services, such as frequent water and electricity cuts.
And finally…
*) Sweden intensifies border controls
Sweden has said it did not plan on making sweeping changes to "freedom of speech" laws and intended to "intensify" border controls instead.
The move comes in the wake of several incidents involving desecrations of Islam's holy book, the Quran.
"We stand up for the Swedish freedom of speech," Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson told a news conference.
He added that the government will "intensify" border controls due to a worsened security situation.
*) Workers crushed to death in India
At least 17 workers have been crushed to death in western India when a crane collapsed on an under-construction expressway outside the financial capital Mumbai.
The crane toppled onto large concrete slabs during the night, with debris smashing down as labourers worked on the Samruddhi Expressway.
India's National Disaster Response Force said 17 bodies had been recovered, and three injured people had been taken to hospital.
*) Several killed, dozens missing in Beijing rainstorms
At least 11 people are dead and 27 missing after heavy rains lashed Beijing, Chinese state media has reported.
Storm Doksuri, a former super typhoon, has swept northwards over China since Friday, when it hit southern Fujian province after scything through the Philippines.
Heavy rains began pummelling the capital and surrounding areas on Saturday, with nearly the average rainfall for the entire month of July dumped on Beijing in just 40 hours.
*) Drone hits office tower in Moscow
A drone hit an office tower in Moscow that was struck over the weekend, while at least one other drone was downed, the city's mayor has said.
"There is no information on casualties," Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram, adding that emergency services were on the scene.
On Sunday, Russia said it had downed Ukrainian drones targeting the capital in an attack that damaged two office towers in Moscow-City, a business district.
*) Pakistan bombing death toll rises to 54
The death toll from a massive suicide bombing that targeted an election rally of a religious party in Pakistan has risen to 54.
Daesh claimed responsibility for Sunday's bombing, which also wounded nearly 200 people.
The victims were attending a rally organised by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F party, headed by influential cleric and politician Fazlur Rehman.
And finally…
*) Türkiye beat Qatar in FIVB Men’s Final
Türkiye has defeated Qatar 3-2 in the FIVB Men’s Challenger Cup Final.
The Turkish National Volleyball Team won the final in Doha and secured its place in the 2024 Volleyball Nations League.
Earlier this month, The Turkish Women’s National Volleyball Team defeated powerhouse China to win the Volleyball Nations League.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, July 31st.
*) Dozens killed in terrorist attack in Pakistan
At least 44 people have been killed and more than 100 others wounded by a suicide bombing at a political gathering in northwest Pakistan.
The blast targeted the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F party as hundreds of supporters congregated in the town of Khar.
The explosion took place ahead of the ruling coalition partner’s public rally in the tribal Bajuar district, near the Afghan border.
*) Moscow to use nuclear weapons if Ukraine succeeds
Russia’s former president has warned that if Ukraine’s counter-offensive is successful and Kiev takes control of land, then Moscow will use nuclear weapons.
Dmitry Medvedev, who now serves as deputy chair of Russia’s Security Council, argued that Moscow was defending its citizens and their land.
The former president said enemies should “worship” the Russian Armed Forces for preventing “the global nuclear fire from flaring up”.
*) Deadly clash at Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon
Several people have been killed and dozens were reported wounded in Lebanon’s largest Palestinian refugee camp following clashes between two groups.
A member of the Fatah Movement and his four guards were killed at the Ain al Helweh camp, local media said.
The state-run National News Agency gave a provisional death toll of six, with perhaps more than 30 wounded.
One soldier was reportedly wounded by a piece of shrapnel.
*) Türkiye gas hub an ‘electronic trading platform’: Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said a natural gas hub would be set up in cooperation with Türkiye as an “electronic trading platform”.
The gas hub project aims to leverage Türkiye’s growing role as a transit country for Europe, ensuring energy security amid potential gas connection disruptions.
Putin and Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan agreed to work on the project following talks earlier this year.
And finally…
*) Morocco makes history at Women’s World Cup
Morocco has won a Women’s World Cup match for the first time with a stunning 1-0 victory over South Korea.
Morocco, one of the lowest-ranked teams at the tournament at 72 in the world, were supposed underdogs against the 17th-ranked Koreans.
The hard-earned win keeps alive Morocco’s chances of reaching the last 16 in Australia and New Zealand.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, July 28th.
*) Russia thwarts Ukrainian ‘drone attack’ in Moscow region
Russia’s defence ministry has said it thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack in the Moscow region overnight. There were no casualties or damage.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin had earlier announced the attack, without specifying its location.
The attempted strike comes days after Ukraine claimed a drone attack in central Moscow.
*) UN suspends humanitarian aid to Niger after coup attempt
The United Nations has put humanitarian operations on hold in Niger after an attempted coup by members of the military.
The Nigerien presidency confirmed that a coup attempt was carried out by soldiers who sealed access to the official residence of President Mohamed Bazoum.
The number of people in need of humanitarian assistance in Niger has increased from 1.9 million people in 2017 to 4.3 million people in 2023, according to OCHA.
*) Israelis reignite protests against Netanyahu’s judicial changes
Thousands of Israelis have returned to the streets to protest against the hard-right government’s controversial judicial reform package.
Waving Israeli flags and chanting, protesters rallied in Tel Aviv, the epicentre of the demonstrations since the package was first unveiled in January.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies pushed through the bill in chamber, which opponents say opens the way to a more authoritarian government.
*) Apocalyptic wildfire blows up ammo depot, forces jets to relocate in Greece
A wildfire whipped on by strong winds has triggered a series of massive explosions at an air force ammunition depot in central Greece.
Local media reported that bombs and ammunition for Greek F-16 fighters were stored at the site.
The large explosions shattered windows on surrounding houses, but the Greek fire service said no severe injuries were reported and villages were evacuated as a precaution.
And finally…
*) Trump accused of trying to delete CCTV footage in classified documents case
Former president Donald Trump is facing accusations that he and his aides asked a staffer to delete camera footage at his Florida estate in an effort to obstruct the classified documents investigations.
The allegations were made on Thursday in an updated grand jury indictment that adds new charges against Trump and another defendant to the case.
A Trump spokesperson dismissed the new charges as “nothing more than a continued…attempt” by the Biden administration to influence the 2024 presidential race.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Soldiers claim to have removed Niger’s president, imposed curfew
Soldiers claim to have overthrown the government of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum in a statement read out on national television, a day after the leader was detained in his official residence.
“We, the defence and security forces ... have decided to put an end to the regime” of President Bazoum, said Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, surrounded by nine other uniformed soldiers in the address.
They said “all institutions” in the country had been suspended, borders closed and a curfew imposed “until further notice”. They urged external partners not to interfere.
*) Cambodian PM Hun Sen to step down after four decades, son to succeed him
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, one of the world’s longest-serving leaders, has said he will resign after almost four decades of hardline rule.
On Sunday, his Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) won a landslide victory in an election with no strong opposition, taking 82 percent of the vote.
Hun Sen has trailed the handover to his son for a year and a half, and the 45-year-old played a leading role in campaigning for Sunday’s vote.
*) North Korea’s Kim meets Russia’s Shoigu for military cooperation
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has met with Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu to discuss military issues and regional security, state media said.
This comes as the country celebrated the 70th anniversary of an armistice that halted fighting in the 1950-53 Korean War.
The North’s official news agency said Kim and Shoigu talked in the capital, Pyongyang, and reached a consensus on unspecified “matters of mutual concern”.
During the meeting, Shoigu conveyed to Kim a “warm and good letter” signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, KCNA said.
*) Ukraine’s Zelenskyy claims ‘good results’ against Russia
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Ukrainian forces had achieved “very good results” on the front line, and he promised to provide details of their successes soon.
Meanwhile, Russian air strikes have damaged 26 Ukrainian port infrastructure facilities and five civilian vessels over the course of nine days, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said.
Russia hit more port infrastructure in Ukraine’s Odessa region in an overnight missile attack, killing a security guard and damaging a cargo terminal, the region’s governor said.
And finally…
*) Ship carrying 3,000 cars burns off Dutch coast, crew member dead
A fire has blazed on a ship off the Dutch coast with nearly 3,000 vehicles on board, killing one person and injuring several others.
The fire began on the 199-metre Panama-registered Fremantle Highway, which was en route from Germany to Egypt.
Rescue ships sprayed water onto the burning boat to cool it down, but using too much water risked its sinking, the Dutch coastguard said. A salvage vessel hooked on to stop it drifting.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Soldiers raid Ecuadorian prison to quell riot
Some 2,700 soldiers have stormed a prison in Ecuador, retaking control of the facility as the death toll from a riot that started over the weekend rose to 31 inmates.
The latest battle between rival gangs at the overcrowded, violence-hobbled Guayas 1 prison in the port city of Guayaquil has also left 14 wounded, the public prosecutor's office said.
Riots regularly pit prison gangs with links to drug traffickers against one another in Ecuador, a country that has recently emerged as a key player in the South American cocaine trade.
*) Türkiye vows to continue backing Palestinian cause
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed continued support for the Palestinian cause during a visit by his Palestinian counterpart Mahmoud Abbas.
Erdogan also expressed deep concern about the ongoing violence inflicted by illegal Israeli settlers.
“Any acts attempting to change the historical status quo of holy places, particularly the al Aqsa Mosque,” cannot be tolerated, he said.
He also said “the unity and reconciliation of the Palestinians are key elements in this process.”
*) Typhoon Doksuri tears through northern Philippines
A powerful storm has hit the northern Philippines, toppling trees, knocking out power and dumping heavy rain as thousands took shelter.
Typhoon Doksuri was packing maximum sustained wind speeds of 175 kilometres an hour as it hovered off the northern tip of the main island of Luzon, the state weather agency said.
At least one person drowned in the province of Rizal in the wake of Typhoon Doksuri, the national disaster agency reported.
*) Ukraine says allies pledge $244M, demining aid
Ukraine's allies have committed to allocating $244 million in addition to special equipment for the country's humanitarian demining needs, First Deputy Prime Minister has said.
"Our task is not only to demine the entire territory in order to save people's lives but also to speed up this process," Yulia Svyrydenko, who is also economy minister, said.
"This is a question of economic recovery because the sooner we return potentially mined lands to circulation, the faster business will develop on them," she added.
*) UNGA adopts resolution on violence against holy books
The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution that deplores all acts of violence against holy books as a violation of international law.
It comes in the wake of multiple burnings and desecrations of copies of Islam’s holy book, the Quran, in European countries, drawing international outrage.
The resolution also deplores violence against religious symbols, places of worship, and religious sites as violations of international law.
*) Ukraine 'downs drones' as Russia launches attack
Russia launched a nighttime drone attack on Kiev, but all incoming drones have been shot down, according to local authorities.
Early information indicated no damage or casualties in the capital following the air raid that lasted for 3 hours, head of the Kiev city military administration said.
The reported attack comes a day after Russia warned of "tough retaliatory measures" after a drone attack on Moscow, some 500 kilometres from Ukraine.
*) Israeli parliament approves legal overhaul
Israeli lawmakers have approved a key portion of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s divisive plan to reshape the country’s justice system.
It was the first step the parliament took in overhauling the judiciary, despite massive protests that have exposed fissures in Israeli society.
Lawmakers approved a measure that prevents judges from striking down government decisions on the basis that they are “unreasonable.”
*) Türkiye ready to help Greece fight wildfires
Türkiye is ready to do whatever it can to help Greece fight back its wildfires, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.
While quickly responding to fires in Türkiye, Erdogan said the country is also rushing to help out other countries in need.
Türkiye sent two amphibious firefighting aircraft and a firefighting helicopter to its neighbour, according to Erdogan.
*) Mali drops French as its official language
Mali has dropped French as its official language under the new constitution, which passed with 96.91 percent of the vote in a June 18 referendum.
French will be the working language from now on, and the 13 national languages spoken in the country will also receive official language status.
Around 70 local languages are spoken in the West African country, where French had been the official language since 1960.
*) First Hijabi footballer, Arab team debut in women’s World Cup
History has been made at the FIFA Women's World Cup as Nouhaila Benzina, the first hijabi footballer, takes the field to represent the Moroccan National team.
The occasion also marks the first time a women's team from the Middle East and North Africa has competed in the prestigious tournament.
Although The Atlas Lionesses of Morocco lost to Germany by a score of 6-0, football enthusiasts from the Arab world are hopeful for their strong comeback.
*) Iraq expels Swedish ambassador in response to Quran desecration in Sweden
Iraq's prime minister has ordered the expulsion of the Swedish ambassador from Iraq and the withdrawal of the Iraqi charge d’affaires from Sweden as a man desecrated a copy of the Quran in Stockholm.
Thursday's diplomatic blowup came hours after protesters angered by the planned burning of a copy of the Quran stormed the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad, breaking into the compound and lighting a small fire.
Online videos showed demonstrators at the diplomatic post waving flags and signs showing the Iraqi Shia cleric and political leader Muqtada al Sadr before a planned burning of the Islamic holy book in Stockholm by an Iraqi asylum-seeker who burned a copy of the Quran in a previous demonstration last month.
*) Israel's Netanyahu doubles down on judicial plan despite mass protests
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with his contentious judicial overhaul, despite unprecedented mass protests at home, growing defections by military reservists.
Netanyahu’s message set the stage for stepped-up street protests in the coming days leading up to a fateful vote expected on Monday.
Thousands of people marched through central Tel Aviv on Thursday night, while others continued a roughly 70-kilometre march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
*) Macron reshuffles cabinet to revive second term
French President Emmanuel Macron reshuffled his government as he looks to move on from a series of crises since his re-election last year, government sources said.
After weeks of speculation that he might change the prime minister, the 45-year-old head of state said on Monday that he was sticking with under-fire Elisabeth Borne.
Advisers and ministers had long argued over whether the centrist should carry out a major overhaul of the cabinet to signal a fresh start, but in the end the reshuffle was limited in scope.
*) Erdogan urges world to lift unfair restrictions from Northern Cyprus
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged the lifting of political restrictions that have been unfairly imposed on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Inaugurating a newly renovated and expanded Ercan Airport in Northern Cyprus, Erdogan also reiterated his call on the international community to support the ideal of two equal states living side by side on Cyprus, rejecting the culture of domination, tension, and conflict on the island.
"The new terminal is six times larger than the previous one, meaning it is now capable of serving 10 million passengers," he said, adding that Ercan Airport also has the largest passenger capacity of any airport on the Eastern Mediterranean island.
*) Over 60% of world's population uses social media
Nearly five billion people, or slightly more than 60 percent of the world's population, are active on social media, according to a recent study.
That represents an increase of 3.7 percent over the past year, according to calculations by digital advisory firm Kepios in its latest quarterly report.
However, Kepios noted that social media figures may exceed the actual figures due to issues like duplicate accounts.
*) Iraqi protesters torch Sweden's embassy in Baghdad
Hundreds of protesters have stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad in protest against the expected desecration of the Muslim holy book Quran in Sweden.
The Swedish Foreign Ministry said embassy staff are "safe" following the torching of the building.
Meanwhile, Iraq's Foreign Ministry condemned the incident and ordered security forces to carry out a swift investigation to identify perpetrators.
*) US alleges Russia preparing to hit civilian ships in Black Sea
A senior White House official has alleged that Russia is considering attacks on civilian ships carrying grain from Ukraine on the Black Sea.
National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge also said, without giving evidence, that Russia would blame Ukrainian forces for the attacks.
Meanwhile, Russia said one person was killed by a Ukrainian drone strike in Crimea, and Ukraine said at least nine were wounded in a Russian strike on Mykolaiv.
*) Türkiye, UAE sign 13 agreements worth $50.7B
Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates have signed a total of 13 deals worth $50.7 billion. This is according to a statement by the Turkish Communications Directorate.
The directorate said that both sides agreed to establish a High-Level Strategic Council to be chaired by the two presidents.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that his country will ensure that relations with the UAE are addressed regularly at the highest level through the council.
Earlier, Erdogan and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan led delegation-level talks in Abu Dhabi.
*) Colombia searches for more bodies as landslide death toll climbs
Heavy rains have complicated the search for nine people still missing after a landslide that killed at least 20 in central Colombia.
More than 400 military troops, firefighters, and other rescue workers are searching for survivors.
Fifteen bodies, four of them children, had been recovered on Tuesday before the search was temporarily called off due to bad weather.
The other five victims were discovered on Wednesday.
*) Barbie' the film: Iconic doll has 'existential crisis' about real world
Australian actress Margot Robbie has said she experienced an existential crisis at a rehearsal for the upcoming Barbie movie.
Similar to Robbie's existential crisis, the Barbie movie follows the doll, who suddenly has an existential crisis. She leaves her pink plastic world to enter the real human world.
Barbie debuts on Friday and is expected to rake in more than $100 million in US theaters in its first weekend.
*) Russia ‘downs’ dozens of Ukraine drowns after grain deal ends
Russian air defences and countermeasure systems have downed 28 Ukrainian drones over Crimea, according to the RIA news agency.
The drone attacks caused no casualties or damages, RIA cited the Russian defence ministry as saying.
Meanwhile, a Russian overnight strike damaged port infrastructure facilities in Ukraine's Odessa, Kiev's military said.
This comes hours after Moscow refused to extend a deal to allow Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea, sparking international outrage.
*) Türkiye, Saudi Arabia ink investment, defence, energy, communications deals
Türkiye and Saudi Arabia have signed a series of deals encompassing investment, the defence industry, energy and communications.
The agreements were signed after delegation meetings led by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Saudi city of Jeddah.
The Turkish president arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday as part of a three-day Gulf tour to strengthen ties.
*) US deploys Navy destroyer, more warplanes to Middle East amid Iran tensions
The US is sending a guided missile destroyer and additional warplanes to the Middle East, the Pentagon has said amid rising tensions with Iran.
Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin authorised the deployment of the USS Thomas Hudner, F-35 and F-16 fighter jets "to defend US interests". This is according to Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh.
Singh cited a July 5 incident in which she said the Iranian navy attempted to seize two merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz as part of the motivation behind the decision.
*) Israel's president will meet with Biden as concerns over illegal settlements, judicial overhaul continue
President Joe Biden is set to host Israel's figurehead president Isaac Herzog at the White House.
The meeting comes as Israel pushes ahead with plans to overhaul its judicial system and continues illegal settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank.
During his visit, Herzog will become the second Israeli president, after his father, to address Congress.
*) Record highs scorch the globe as Europe prepares for heatwave peak
Europe braces for new high temperatures under a relentless heatwave and wildfires that have scorched swathes of the Northern Hemisphere.
Health authorities have sounded alarms from North America to Europe and Asia, urging people to stay hydrated and shelter from the burning sun.
Europe is the world's fastest-warming continent and is bracing for the peak of the current heatwave to hit Italy's islands of Sicily and Sardinia.
*) Türkiye 'more hopeful than ever' over F-16 purchase from US: Erdogan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he is "more hopeful than ever" about the country’s F-16 purchase from the United States.
Erdogan issued the statement at the end of the NATO summit in Lithuania's capital Vilnius.
He said Ankara expects that to reach a positive outcome, although no timeline has been set.
US President Joe Biden has already signalled his approval of the deal which needs approval from the US Congress.
*)Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine
A Russian general claimed he was fired as a commander in southern Ukraine after telling Moscow of the dire situation at the frontline Major General Ivan Popov made the revelation in a voice message published by a Russian lawmaker.
He said more and more Russian soldiers were killed by Ukrainian artillery and that the army lacked proper fighting equipment. Russian President Vladimir Putin has so far kept Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and his top general in their jobs after the June 24 mutiny by Wagner mercenaries.
*)Junior doctors begin 'longest strike' in UK's NHS history
Hospital doctors in England are set to stage the biggest walkout in the history of the state-funded National Health Service, prompting fears for patient safety.
The unprecedented five-day stoppage will begin Thursday over pay and staffing.
It is the latest in eight months of industrial action across the country’s health service, which is already reeling from a vast pandemic backlog.
Nurses, ambulance staff and other medical staff have all joined picket lines in recent months, adding to pressures on patient appointments.
*)UN: Conflict in Sudan displaced over 3 million people
The UN has reported that the conflict in Sudan has already driven more than 3 million people from their homes.
More than 2.4 million are now displaced internally, while over 700,000 have fled to other countries, the International Organization for Migration said.
Egypt is hosting the largest number of those who fled, followed by Chad and South Sudan.
Sudan has plunged into chaos since mid-April when armed fighting broke out between the military and its rival paramilitary group.
And finally…
*) Kuwait to print 100,000 Quran copies translated into Swedish
Kuwait has announced that it is printing a hundred thousand copies of the Holy book, Quran, in Swedish, as part of the government’s effort to promote tolerance and the true teachings of Islam.
Kuwait said the newly printed books will be distributed in Sweden. The move comes in the wake of the string of Quran desecrations in Sweden and Germany.
The incidents have sparked international condemnation and outrage as well as diplomatic backlash.
*) Bosnia bids farewell to newly identified Srebrenica genocide victims
Marking the 28th anniversary of the 1995 Srebrenica massacre, Bosnia and Herzegovina bid farewell to 30 more newly identified genocide victims at a memorial service.
Every year on July 11, newly identified victims of the genocide are laid to rest at a memorial cemetery in Potocari, eastern Bosnia.
The memorial centre is the focal point of remembrance for friends and relatives of the victims, mostly men and boys, murdered by Bosnian Serb militias. After this year’s funeral, the number of burials in the cemetery rose to 6,751.
*) Dozens killed as ethnically targeted violence worsens in Sudan: HRW
Gunmen have killed at least 40 civilians in a single day in Sudan's Darfur region as ethnically motivated bloodshed escalated in step with the war between rival military factions according to the Human Rights Watch.
The human rights group said the killings include the execution of at least 28 Masalits, in the West Darfur town of Misterei.
In the West Darfur city of El Geneina, several prominent figures have been killed in recent days and volunteers are struggling to bury corpses littering the streets, according to a statement by the Darfur Bar Association.
*) Israel turns occupied Palestinian territories into open-air prison: UN expert
A UN expert has said Israel had transformed the occupied Palestinian territories into an "open-air prison" through widespread, systematic and arbitrary detentions of Palestinians since the 1967 Arab-Israeli war.
Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied territories, said that the high number of criminal convictions for Palestinians stems from "violations of international law and criminalisation of ordinary acts of life."
In a report presented to the UN Human Rights Council, Albanese found that since 1967, more than 800,000 Palestinians, including children as young as 12, had been arrested and detained by Israeli forces.
*) Russia vetoes UN resolution on cross-border aid delivery to northern Syria
Russia has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution seeking to extend cross-border aid delivery for nine months from Türkiye through a border gate into northern Syria.
Thirteen other Security Council members voted in favour of the resolution drafted by Switzerland and Brazil, while China abstained from the vote, but as Russia is a permanent Security Council member, its veto prevailed.
*) Messi lands in Florida ahead of Inter Miami deal
Argentinian star Lionel Messi has landed in Florida ahead of putting the final touches on his move to US Major League Soccer club Inter Miami.
The World Cup winner is expected to put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year deal, reported to be worth $60 million a year, before being presented to fans at a stadium event on Sunday.
Messi said in an interview with Argentinian TV show, "We are happy with the decision we made. Prepared and eager to face the new challenge and the new change."
*) Türkiye agrees to move ahead with Sweden's NATO bid: Stoltenberg
Türkiye has agreed to forward to parliament Sweden's bid to join the NATO military alliance, Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said on the eve of a NATO summit in Vilnius.
Türkiye's approval came after Stockholm agreed to establish a bilateral security mechanism with Ankara, Stoltenberg said. Sweden will also support Türkiye's EU process, visa liberalisation and efforts to update Customs Union, he added.
He said NATO was establishing, for the first time, the post of Special Counter-Terrorism Coordinator.
Sweden reiterated it will not support terrorist organisations YPG/PYD and FETO, a joint statement said after the meeting between Türkiye, Sweden, and the NATO chief.
*) Key aid route to Syria closes as UN fails to extend authorisation
A UN-brokered agreement that allows for the delivery of aid overland from Türkiye into Syria has expired after the United Nations Security Council failed to hold a vote to reauthorise it.
The 15 members of the council had been trying for days to find a compromise to extend the deal, which since 2014 has allowed for food, water and medicine to be trucked to northwestern Syria.
But the vote, first scheduled for Friday, was postponed to Monday - and then again to Tuesday morning, a source in the British mission to the UN, which holds the presidency of the Security Council, said.
This means that as humanitarian convoys wrapped up their operations on Monday night, the future of the aid corridor was in doubt - it cannot resume operations until the United Nations reauthorises it.
*) Turkish President, EU Council chief agree to 're-energise' ties
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, in Vilnius, Lithuania as he was visiting to attend a NATO leaders’ summit.
Michel on Twitter said they “explored opportunities ahead to bring EU-Türkiye cooperation back to the forefront & re-energise our relations."
He added that the Council has asked the high representative, Josep Borell, and the European Commission to submit a report "with a view to proceed in a strategic & forward-looking manner."
*) Last week hottest on record worldwide: UN
The beginning of July has been the hottest week on record for the planet, according to early findings from the United Nations' weather agency, after a series of scorching days saw global temperature records tumble.
"The world just had the hottest week on record, according to preliminary data," the World Meteorological Organization said in a statement on Monday, after the climate crisis and the early stages of the El Nino weather pattern drove the warmest June on record.
It's the latest in a series of records halfway through a year that has already seen a drought in Spain and fierce heat waves in China as well the United States.
*) Meta's Threads hits 100 million users as Twitter struggles
The Threads app launched by Instagram as a rival to Twitter has signed up more than 100 million users in less than five days, data tracking websites said on Monday, smashing the record of AI tool ChatGPT for fastest-growing consumer app.
While ChatGPT took two months to hit the 100 million user mark and video-sharing app TikTok took nine months, Instagram itself took two and a half years to reach that mark after its 2010 launch.
Threads went live on Apple and Android app stores in 100 countries late on Wednesday, though it is not available in Europe because parent company Meta is unsure how to navigate the European Union's data privacy legislation.
*) UN condemns Israel's Jenin raid, urges to respect international law
The head of the UN has strongly condemned Israeli violence and its excessive use of force in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin.
"Israel's air strikes and ground operations in a crowded refugee camp were the worst violence in the West Bank in many years," Antonio Guterres told reporters at UN headquarters in New York on Thursday.
Guterres demanded that Israel abide by its obligations under international law, including a duty to exercise restraint and use proportional force.
*) Türkiye urges Sweden to put its anti-terror law into practice
Sweden's legislative changes in line with a memorandum signed in Madrid last year should be reflected in practice, the Turkish foreign minister said.
Following the fifth meeting of a permanent joint mechanism between Türkiye, Finland, and Sweden in Belgium, Hakan Fidan said "It is imperative that countries wishing to join NATO take a firm stand on the fight against terrorism."
Sweden could not prevent provocations, which affects Ankara's stance, he said, referring to the recent desecration of the Quran in Stockholm.
*) DRC mulls security pact with South Africa to counter militias
Democratic Republic of the Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi said that he was planning to sign a security agreement with South Africa.
In a news conference with the South African President, in the capital Kinshasa, Tshisekedi explained that the accord could take the form of a mutual-defence pact.
The Congolese president highlighted the mutual defence pact of the Southern African Development Community as a potential model.
*) Zelenskyy says Ukraine's offensive 'not fast' but 'we advance'
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has said that Kiev wanted "honesty" in ties with NATO as he spoke ahead of a key summit of the Western military bloc.
"We need honesty in our ties," Zelenskyy told reporters alongside Czech President Petr Pavel, speaking ahead of a key summit in Vilnius.
He said it was time to demonstrate "the courage and strength of this alliance."
And finally…
*) Turkish wunderkind Arda Guler joins Real Madrid on 6-year contract
18-year-old Arda Guler has moved to Real Madrid from Turkish football club Fenerbahce on a six-year contract, the Spanish club confirmed.
The Spanish powerhouse also said that the player would be introduced to the media on Friday at Real Madrid City, the club's training ground in Valdebebas. Fenerbahce stated on the Turkish Public Disclosure Platform that Real Madrid would pay a 21.7 million dollars transfer fee to buy Guler.
*) Fury in Israel after 'lenient' police chief is ousted by Netanyahu ally
Thousands of protesters have blocked Tel Aviv's main highway and intersections across Israel in an outburst of anger following the forced resignation of the city's popular police chief.
Ami Eshed announced on late Wednesday that he was leaving the Israeli police force under what he said was political pressure.
Eshed has regularly clashed with the country's hardline National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has demanded that police take a tougher stance against months of anti-government protests.
*) Azerbaijani leader urges Macron to apologise over French colonialism
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has accused France of being one of the countries which continue their neocolonial policy.
Aliyev urged French President Emmanuel Macron to apologise to the countries affected by French colonialism.
He also said racist and discriminative rhetoric has become common in France, including in the media.
*) Children in conflict zones faced over 27,000 'grave violations' in 2022
Children experienced the highest number of "grave violations" in conflicts verified by the United Nations in 2022, the UN children’s agency has said.
Omar Abdi, UNICEF’s deputy executive director, told the UN Security Council more than 27,000 grave violations, the highest number verified by the UN since its monitoring reports began in 2005.
UNICEF expressed particular concern about their plight in Palestine, Somalia, Haiti, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Ukraine.
*) Dozens dead as bus careens into gulch in southern Mexico
A bus travelling through the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca (Woahaka) has crashed into a ravine, killing 27 people, authorities said. The accident left 13 men, 13 women and an infant boy dead, state’s Interior Minister said in a press conference.
Another 21 people were injured, of whom 12 are in critical condition, the minister added.
*) Meta launches Threads, its answer to Twitter
Meta has officially launched Threads, its text-based Twitter rival, but its release in Europe has been delayed over regulatory concerns.
"Let's do this. Welcome to Threads," wrote Meta chief executive and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in his first post on the new platform.
Threads is the biggest challenger yet to Elon Musk-owned Twitter, which has seen a series of potential competitors emerge but not yet replace one of the social media's most iconic companies, despite its epic struggles.
*) Gaza under fire after Israeli raid in Jenin
Israel has carried out air strikes on blockaded Gaza in what it says was a response to rockets fired from the Palestinian coastal enclave, the army said.
The developments came after the Israeli military said it was withdrawing troops from Jenin city in the occupied West Bank late on Tuesday, winding down an intense two-day incursion that killed at least 13 Palestinians, wounded more than 100, drove thousands from their homes and left a wide swath of damage.
*) Sudan's army tries to cut off RSF supply lines
Fierce battles have broken out across Omdurman, the western part of Sudan's wider capital, as the army tried to cut off supply routes used by its paramilitary rivals to bring reinforcements into the city.
The army launched air strikes and heavy artillery, and there were ground battles in several parts of Omdurman, witnesses said.
The Rapid Support Forces said it had shot down a fighter jet, and residents posted footage that appeared to show pilots ejecting from a plane.
*) China says it resolutely opposes US military sales to Taiwan
China resolutely opposes US arms sales to Taiwan and has lodged stern representations to Washington, China's defence ministry said.
Spokesperson Tan Kefei said in a statement that the US has ignored China’s core concerns, violently interfered in China's internal affairs and deliberately pushed up tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
The US State Department approved earlier the potential sale of ammunition and logistics support to Taiwan in two separate deals valued at up to $440 million, the Pentagon said.
*) Taliban bans women's beauty salons in Afghanistan
Afghanistan's Taliban authorities have ordered beauty parlours across the country to shut within a month.
Mohammad Sadeq Akif Muhajir, spokesperson for the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, would not say why the order had been given.
He said the businesses had been given time to close their affairs so they could use up their stock without incurring losses.
*) World records hottest day ever on Monday
Monday was the world's hottest day on record, exceeding an average of 17 degrees Celsius for the first time, according to initial measurements taken by US meteorologists.
The average daily air temperature on the planet's surface on July 3rd was logged at 17.01C by an organisation attached to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
This measurement taken on Tuesday surpasses the previous daily record [16.92C] set on July 24 last year.
*) International office probing Ukraine war crimes begins
An international office to investigate Russia over its assault on Ukraine opens in The Hague, in the first step towards a possible tribunal for Moscow's leadership.
The International Centre for the Prosecution of the Crime of Aggression (ICPA) features prosecutors from Kiev, the European Union, the United States and the International Criminal Court (ICC).
It will investigate and gather evidence in a move seen as an interim step before the creation of a special tribunal that could bring Kremlin officials to justice for starting the Ukraine conflict.
*) Israeli strike kills, injures Palestinians in occupied West Bank's Jenin
Israeli forces killed at least four Palestinians and wounded 27 others in a nighttime operation in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, the Palestinian Health Ministry has said.
Seven of the injured are in critical condition, the ministry said on Monday.
According to reports, Israeli warplanes targeted a home in Jenin with three missiles in what the army said was an "extensive counterterrorism effort".
Following the air strike, the Israeli army conducted a raid on the city with the assistance of armoured military bulldozers and imposed a blockade on the Jenin refugee camp.
*) Mayor's home attacked as violent protests continue in France
The home of the mayor of a Paris suburb was attacked with a burning car in a new eruption of violence in protest against the killing of a teenager.
Protesters rammed a burning car into the home of Vincent Jeanbrun, the right-wing mayor of L'Hay-les-Roses outside Paris, on Sunday with the aim of setting it on fire, prosecutors said.
The government of President Emmanuel Macron has been battling five nights of violent protests since 17-year-old Nahel M. was shot dead in the Paris suburb of Nanterre on Tuesday by an officer during a traffic check.
The killing of Nahel M, who was of Algerian origin, has revived long standing accusations of institutional racism within the French police, which rights groups say single out minorities during stops.
*)Islamic body OIC calls for action to prevent Quran burnings
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has called for collective measures to prevent future Quran burnings, days after a copy was torched outside a Stockholm mosque.
OIC urged member states to "take unified and collective measures to prevent the recurrence of incidents of desecration of copies of the" Quran.
In a statement, the body's secretary general, Hissein Brahim Taha, stressed "the need to send a clear message that acts of desecrating the Quran are not mere ordinary Islamophobia incidents."
*) Türkiye beats US, ranks 3rd at FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup 2023
The Turkish Under-19 Men's National Basketball Team has beaten the United States 84-70 in the FIBA World Cup, scoring third place.
In the tournament in Debrecen, Hungary, on Sunday, Türkiye faced the US - the most successful team of the organisation with 8 championships.
Türkiye won the bronze medal with this result for the second time in the history of the tournament, after first scoring third place in 2015.
*) Russia officially dropping charges against Wagner, Prigozhin
Russia's FSB security services has announced that it was dropping a case against fighters of the Wagner mercenary group accused of staging an armed mutiny to topple the country's military leadership. Over the weekend, the Kremlin had also pledged not to prosecute Prigozhin and his fighters after he stopped the revolt on Saturday, even though President Vladimir Putin had branded them as traitors. Legally, the charge of mounting an armed mutiny in Russia carries a punishment of up to 20 years in prison.
*)Erdogan, Mitsotakis voice hope for new era in Turkish-Greek ties
The Turkish president and Greek prime minister have voiced hope that the new era following recent elections in both countries is auspicious for improved bilateral ties.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan congratulated Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a phone call on Monday after he was sworn in again as Greek premier, according to a Turkish Communications Directorate statement. During their talk, it was emphasised that the presence of strong governments, having gained the trust of their respective peoples in both countries, presents an opportunity for the future of bilateral relations.
*)Türkiye lambasts Reuters over baseless allegations about Erdogan's son
Türkiye's communications director has condemned Reuters for reporting baseless allegations about President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's son, crying foul at the news agency for spreading disinformation. Fahrettin Altun called the allegations against Bilal Erdogan baseless, saying that the news agency was not even able to independently confirm whether President Erdogan and his son Bilal were aware of or had involvement in a Swedish firm’s alleged kickback scheme.
*)'Absolute necessity': US to spend $42B to make internet access universal
US President Joe Biden has said that high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but an "absolute necessity," as he pledged that every household in the nation would have access by 2030 using cables made in the United States.
"These investments will help all Americans," he said. "We’re not going to leave anyone behind," Biden said in a White House address . Biden announced that more than $40 billion would be distributed across the country to deliver high-speed internet in places where there's either no service, or service is too slow. And finally…
*) Ilkay Gundogan leaves Manchester City to join FC Barcelona on free transfer
Ilkay Gundogan has ended his trophy-laden seven-year stay with Manchester City by agreeing to join Barcelona on a free transfer. The Turkish-German midfielder's last act as a City player — and as the team's captain — was to lift the Champions League trophy, which completed a treble of major titles for the English club. Now, he is heading to Spain on a two-year contract for a new experience, even though Pep Guardiola wanted to keep the 32-year-old Gundogan — the first signing of the City manager's era from 2016.
*) Mitsotakis back as Greece's prime minister, far-right gains more seats
Kyriakos Mitsotakis has embarked on his second term as Greece's prime minister with a vow to accelerate institutional and economic reforms, after voters handed him a huge election victory for the second time in five weeks. Mitsotakis' decision to reject a coalition and call for a second election paid off, as his New Democracy party consolidated its victory. Meanwhile, the return of the far-right to parliament has raised concerns, as opposition leader Tsipras said the strongest showing of Greek hard-right parties in decades was a "visible" threat to democracy.
*)Russia's Shoigu makes first tv appearance after Wagner mutiny
Russian state television broadcast footage of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu inspecting Russian troops, in his first public appearance since a failed mutiny by Wagner mercenaries. Shoigu — the target of fierce criticism by the Wagner mercenary group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin — went to a command post for Russian forces in Ukraine and held a meeting there with the leader of one of the units, according to images shown by the broadcaster. Prigozhin has repeatedly blamed Shoigu and Valery Gerasimov, chief of the general staff, for his fighters' deaths. Wagner mercenaries headed back to their base on Sunday after Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to allow Prigozhin to avoid treason charges and accept exile in neighbouring Belarus.
*)Sudan's RSF seizes key police base in Khartoum as deadly battle rages
Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has said it had seized the main base of a heavily armed police unit as it sought an edge in its war with the army during heavy fighting in the capital Khartoum. It later said it had captured 160 pick-up trucks, 75 armoured personnel carriers, and 27 tanks. Reuters was not immediately able to verify the footage or the RSF statements. There was no immediate comment from the army or the police.
*)Turkish president, NATO chief discuss developments in Russia, Sweden Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and NATO Chief Jens Stoltenberg have discussed the latest developments in Russia and Sweden's NATO membership in a phone call, according to a statement by Türkiye's Communications Directorate. During the call on Sunday, it was pointed out that the end of tensions in Russia "prevented the occurrence of irrevocable humanitarian tragedies in the Ukrainian field," the statement said. Erdogan conveyed to Stoltenberg that Türkiye hopes recent developments in Russia will be "a new milestone in the path to a just peace in Ukraine," it added. And finally…
*) DPRK holds rallies to denounce US as it marks Korean War anniversary
North Korea has held mass rallies in Pyongyang where people shouted slogans vowing a "war of revenge" to destroy the United States, as it marked the 73rd anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War. About 120,000 working people and students took part in the rallies held across the capital on Sunday, state news agency KCNA reported on Monday. Photos released by state media showed a stadium crowded with people holding placards reading "The whole US mainland is within our shooting range" and "The imperialist US is the destroyer of peace."
*) US says Titan submersible 'imploded', killing all five on board
A submersible carrying five people to the Titanic imploded near the site of the shipwreck and killed everyone on board, US authorities have said, bringing a tragic end to a saga that included an urgent around-the-clock search and a worldwide vigil for the missing vessel.
US Coast Guard officials said during a news conference that they've notified the families of the crew of the Titan, which had been missing since Sunday.
The sliver of hope that remained for finding the five men alive was wiped away early Thursday, when the submersible's 96-hour supply of oxygen was expected to run out and the Coast Guard announced that debris had been found roughly 1,600 feet from the Titanic in North Atlantic waters.
*) Biden defends Xi 'dictator' remark in new rebuff of China as he fetes Modi
President Joe Biden has defended his harsh public comments on China, including calling President Xi Jinping a "dictator", saying his words would have no negative impact on US-China relations and that he still expects to meet with Xi sometime soon.
Asked about his appraisal of Xi during a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Modi in the East Room, Biden said it "is just not something I'm going to change very much."
The remarks, which drew a formal protest from China, opened a new rift just days after Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded a visit to Beijing that was meant as a step toward stabilising ties and improving communications.
*)Türkiye lambastes illegal Israeli settlers for Quran desecration
Türkiye has condemned the ripping up of the Muslim holy book, the Quran, by Israeli settlers who vandalised a mosque in the town of Urif in the occupied West Bank.
"We condemn the attack perpetrated by a group of Jewish settlers on our holy book, the Quran, by entering a mosque in the town of Urif, located in the Palestinian territories under Israeli occupation," the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
"We expect the perpetrators of this unacceptable hate crime to be brought to justice as soon as possible," said the statement.
*)Qatar reportedly buys stake in Washington's NBA, NHL, WNBA teams
Qatar's sovereign wealth fund is buying a roughly 5 percent stake in the parent company of the NBA's Washington Wizards, NHL's Washington Capitals and WNBA's Washington Mystics as part of a $4.05 billion deal, a person with knowledge of the sale said.
The person spoke to The Associated Press on Thursday on condition of anonymity because the agreement between the Qatar Investment Authority and Monumental Sports & Entertainment had not been announced.
It is believed to be the first time the government of Qatar is investing in US professional sports.
And finally…
*) Obama slams western hypocrisy over refugees, Titan incidents
Former US president Barack Obama has slammed the hypocrisy of Western media concerning refugees and particularly in reference to the recent sinking of a refugee boat off southwestern Greece in which at least 82 people died and hundreds more are feared to have drowned. The fact that more attention is being paid to a submersible carrying five people that vanished off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada while on a tour of the Titanic's wreckage than the refugee boat sinking off Greece with up to 700 people on board is "rotten," he said during an appearance in the Greek capital Athens.
*) Anti-Muslim record, rights abuses hounds Modi as he makes US state visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a trip to the US, kicking off his visit with a highly-publicised yoga session in New York and capping it off with a state dinner at the White House on Thursday night.
But accusations of inciting anti-Muslim violence and other human rights abuses are hounding him. Several US Congress members said they are boycotting his address before a joint session of the US Congress.
On Wednesday, Modi’s trip encountered an embarrassing hitch when he arrived 30 minutes late to a planned event with US First Lady Jill Biden.
Later on Thursday, Modi and President Joe Biden are expected to announce deals that would deepen geopolitical and technology ties between the US and India.
*) Western media under fire for slanted coverage of refugee tragedy and missing Titan sub
Netizens are criticising what they described as “biased” media coverage and disparity in emergency response, between the deadly sinking of a fishing trawler carrying hundreds of refugees in the Mediterranean, and the missing Titan submersible, carrying five explorers including at least two billionaires.
Some social media users say they are frustrated to see the nonstop media coverage of the missing tourist submersible, which is being searched in the North Atlantic by a multinational response team.
In contrast, emergency response came late when scores of nameless refugees escaping wars and famine drowned off the Greek coast last week.
*) Blast in China restaurant leaves dozens dead
At least 31 people were killed following a gas explosion in northwestern China.
The blast tore through a restaurant in Yinchuan, the capital of the traditionally Muslim Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, as people gathered ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival.
The explosion left many people unconscious, many needing to be carried out of the shop.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has demanded urgent medical care for the injured and a safety overhaul after the incident.
*) Pentagon leak suspect, pleads not guilty
The US airman accused of leaking top secret Pentagon documents online has pleaded not guilty to charges that could send him to prison for decades.
Jack Teixeira, the 21-year-old National Guard IT specialist was arrested in April for allegedly orchestrating the most damaging leak of US classified documents in a decade.
He is facing six counts of retaining and transmitting national defence information. Each count carries sentences of up to 10 years in prison. His lawyer asked that he be released pending trial but the judge denied the request.
Teixeira is suspected of posting the documents — some dated as recently as early March — to a private chat group on the social media platform Discord.
And finally…
*) Türkiye's first AI chatbot 'TurcoAI' makes debut
A Turkish artificial intelligence robot developed entirely by Turkish entrepreneurs using domestic resources has been released on the market.
TurcoAI is one of the first Turkish projects in the billion-dollar artificial intelligence sector.
TurcoAI can comprehend emotional algorithms specific to Turkish society, use the Turkish language, and offer immersive encounters through written and visual materials.
Muhammed Yildiz, the founder of TurcoAI, says his project can create and consume content in more than 40 languages.
He said that TurcoAI represents a significant leap in Türkiye's technological landscape, contributing to its position as a prominent techno hub in the world.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, June 21.
*) Underwater noises heard as crews race to find Titanic tourist sub
The US Coast Guard has confirmed early that rescue teams looking for the missing Titanic sub detected “underwater noises” in the search area where the craft went missing two days earlier.
Authorities in the US and Canada are racing against the clock to locate the vessel that was carrying people to see the Titanic wreckage site in the North Atlantic Ocean.
When it went missing, the submersible had 96 hours of additional oxygen available.
*) Death toll from migrant boat sinking off Greece rises to 82
The death toll from last week’s sinking of a fishing boat crammed with refugees and migrants off the coast of southwestern Greece climbed to 82, with hundreds more feared drowned.
The body of a migrant was recovered in an area close to the sinking, said the state-run AMNA news agency, adding that search operations are still underway with the participation of a Greek frigate, helicopter and aircraft.
A total of 104 people have been rescued, but the death toll is expected to rise as survivors said the vessel was carrying more than 600 migrants, mostly from Pakistan, Egypt and Syria.
*) Dozens of inmates burn to death in Honduras jail riot
A riot at a women’s prison in Honduras has killed at least 41 women, most of them burned to death, in violence linked to gang activity, authorities said.
Most victims were burned, but there also were reports of inmates shot at the prison in Tamara, about 48 kilometres northwest of the Honduran capital, said Yuri Mora, the spokesperson for Honduras’ national police investigation agency.
At least seven female inmates were being treated at a hospital for gunshot and knife wounds, employees there said.
*) Sudan fighting uproots 2.5 million as bodies line Darfur streets
Bodies have lined the streets in Sudan’s western Darfur region as the United Nations said that more than two months of fighting had forced over 2.5 million people from their homes.
A three-day ceasefire due to end on Wednesday at dawn brought a brief respite to the capital Khartoum, gripped by the war that erupted on April 15 between two rival generals.
The number of people uprooted from their homes by the conflict has topped 2.5 million, including about 550,000 who have fled abroad, according to the International Organization for Migration.
And finally…
*) North Korea calls Blinken’s China visit a ‘disgraceful begging trip’
North Korea has criticised US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s recent visit to Beijing as a “begging trip” to ease tensions in what it called a policy failure to pressure China.
At one of the most significant US-China exchanges since US President Joe Biden took office, Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping met and agreed to stabilise their intense rivalry so it did not veer into conflict.
Blinken said after the meeting on Monday that he urged China to encourage North Korea to stop launching missiles as Beijing holds a “unique position” to press Pyongyang to engage in dialogue.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Israeli raid kills five Palestinians, injures dozens of others in occupied West Bank
Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank have killed five Palestinians in a raid that marked a rare use of Israeli airpower in the occupied Palestinian territory. The Palestinian health ministry said five people were killed and at least 91 others were wounded in the violence on Monday. The Israeli military also deployed an Apache helicopter, which fired missiles in the residential areas of Jenin. The raid was the latest in more than a year of near-daily Israeli violence that has wracked the occupied West Bank.
*) China's Xi meets Blinken as US seeks to ease soaring tensions with Beijing
China’s President Xi Jinping welcomed US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Beijing as the top American diplomat wrapped up his two-day high-stakes visit to the Chinese capital. Blinken’s visit is aimed at easing soaring tensions between the world's two largest economies. Blinken is the highest-level US official to visit China since President Joe Biden took office, and the first secretary of state to make the trip in five years. Following the meeting, Blinken said he agreed with China's leadership on the need to "stabilise" relations but also acknowledged that the two countries have vast disagreements. *) Türkiye military says it 'neutralised' two high-ranking PKK terrorists in northern Iraq
The Turkish military has announced that it "neutralised" two high-ranking PKK members in northern Iraq. The suspects were targeted in the Operation Claw-Lock zone. The military said a large number of arms and ammunition, including rifles, rounds of bullets, a grenade launcher, night vision binoculars and a camera were seized in the operation. Ankara has been carrying out several operations in northern Iraq to root out the PKK who are suspected of hiding in those areas and plotting cross-border attacks on Türkiye.
*) $1.5 billion pledged for Sudan as UN warns further 'death and destruction'
Donors have pledged nearly $1.5 billion in aid for the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and the neighbouring countries hosting refugees fleeing the fighting, according to UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths. A record 25 million people, more than half of Sudan's population, are in need of aid following the violence that broke out in mid-April, according to the UN. UN chief Antonio Guterres has described the scale and speed of Sudan's deadly violence as “unprecedented”. He warned that without strong international support, Sudan could quickly become a centre of lawlessness and insecurity in the region.
And finally…
*) Türkiye beats Wales to advance in Euro qualifier
Türkiye has moved to the top of Euro 2024 qualifying Group D with a 2-0 home victory against Wales despite missing a penalty and having two invalidated goals. A late header by Mehmet Umut Nayir and a superb curled effort by fellow substitute Arda Guler finally cracked Welsh resistance on Monday in Samsun to put Türkiye on top of the group with nine points from four games. Wales, who were surprisingly beaten at home by Armenia last week, are fourth with four points.
*) 'Calm' in Sudan's capital as 72-hour ceasefire takes effect
A 72-hour ceasefire between Sudan's warring sides has taken effect to allow for the delivery of desperately needed aid to the country.
The ceasefire came into force on Sunday morning with mediators saying the two sides had agreed to refrain from attacks and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Witnesses in the capital Khartoum said the situation was "calm" but urged for a permanent truce after previous ceasefires were repeatedly broken.
*) US, China see path to more stable ties after Blinken's 'constructive' visit
The United States and China have agreed to expand dialogue to bring relations back from historic lows.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke to his Chinese counterpart during a rare trip to Beijing, becoming the highest-ranking US visitor to the Chinese capital in nearly five years.
The two sides announced that Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang agreed to pay a return visit to Washington at a later date.
The two top diplomats will also work together to expand flights between the two countries.
*) Russia 'repels' Kiev's counterattacks at three points of the front line
Russia's defence ministry has claimed its forces repelled a series of Ukrainian attacks across three sections of the front line.
It said Ukraine was pressing most actively in the Zaporizhzhia region.
Both sides are suffering high numbers of military casualties as Ukraine fights to dislodge the Kremlin’s forces from occupied areas in the early stages of its counteroffensive, British officials said.
*) Sweltering heatwave kills nearly a hundred people in India
At least 96 people have died in two of India's most populous states over the last several days as the country battles an intense heatwave.
All the fatalities in Uttar Pradesh, totalling 54, were reported in Ballia district on Sunday. Meanwhile, in eastern Bihar, scorching heat led to 42 deaths in the past two days.
Hundreds of people were admitted to district hospitals for various ailments aggravated by heat.
The Ballia district experienced a maximum temperature of 43 degrees Celsius, surpassing the normal range by five degrees.
*) Verstappen takes Red Bull's 100th win in Formula One, matches Senna's record
World champion Max Verstappen has drawn alongside Ayrton Senna in the Formula One record books with his 41st victory at the Canadian Grand Prix.
The 25-year-old defending double champion led from lights to flag as he came home 9.570 seconds ahead of Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso for his team's 100th F1 win.
It was Verstappen’s second win at the Montreal racing circuit, his sixth in eight races this year and his 41st overall.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, June 16.
*) Greece criticised for watching refugee boat disaster in the Mediterranean
Nine survivors of a refugee boat sinking in the Mediterranean have been arrested on suspicion of smuggling as hope faded for hundreds of other passengers still missing.
Attention has now turned to Greece, who is accused of failing to act before the overcrowded ship capsized.
The trawler may have carried as many as 750 passengers, including women and children.
Greek authorities were criticised for not acting to rescue the refugees and migrants, even though a coast guard vessel escorted the trawler for hours and watched helplessly as it sank in minutes.
Greek officials argued that the migrants and refugees repeatedly refused assistance and insisted on continuing to Italy. But legal experts said that was no excuse for Greek officials’ non-interference.
*) US holding talks with Iran to lower tensions — report
The United States is holding talks with Iran to sketch out steps that could limit the Iranian nuclear programme, release some detained US citizens and unfreeze some Iranian assets abroad, according to Reuters, citing Iranian and Western officials.
These steps would be cast as an “understanding” rather than an agreement requiring review by the US Congress, where many oppose negotiating with Iran.
Having failed to revive a 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Washington hopes to restore some limits on Iran’s nuclear programme.
Tehran says it has no ambition to develop a nuclear weapon.
The willingness to restart discussions illustrates the rising sense of urgency in Western capitals about Iran’s programme.
*)Trees uprooted, roofs blown off by cyclone in India’s Gujarat
Roofs were blown off houses and trees and electric poles uprooted in several parts of India’s western state of Gujarat as a severe cyclone Biparjoy made landfall overnight bringing heavy rain.
No casualties were reported as of Friday morning.
More than 180,000 people were evacuated in India and Pakistan in the last few days as authorities braced for the cyclone.
*) Attacks in 2023 displace ‘nearly 1 million’ in the DRC
Attacks on civilians by non-state armed groups have increased, displacing one million people in the Democratic Republic of Congo since early 2023.
An estimated 6.1 million people are internally displaced, a 17 percent rise from October 2022, the International Organization for Migration said.
As the conflict intensifies, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, and millions are facing acute food insecurity as well as other critical needs, the UN agency added.
The agency said at least 46 people, including children, were killed in an attack earlier this month by members of the CODECO militia at a refugee site in Ituri province.
And finally…
*) Nusrat Jahan Choudhury is first Muslim woman to serve as US federal judge
The US Senate has confirmed along party lines Nusrat Jahan Choudhury as the first Muslim woman and the first Bangladeshi American to serve as a federal judge.
Senators approved Choudhury’s nomination in a 50-49 vote with one Democratic senator siding with all Republicans who voted in opposition.
Choudhury will now be a US District Judge in New York.
Choudhury previously served as a legal director at the A-C-L-U rights group. She graduated from Columbia University, Princeton University, and Yale Law School.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Kosovo accuses Serbia of kidnapping its border police officers
Tensions are rising again between Kosovo and Serbia, after Belgrade arrested three Kosovo police officers, a move Pristina described as kidnapping. In retaliation, Kosovo has banned Serbian vehicles from crossing the border.
Wednesday's flare-up between the two Balkan countries follows weeks of tensions, after rioting in northern Kosovo saw 30 NATO peacekeepers wounded in late May.
Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti blamed Serbia for the latest incident, saying the move was likely in "revenge" for the arrest of an alleged Serb paramilitary leader in Kosovo on Tuesday.
*) Biden urged to press Modi over freedom of Kashmiri, other journalists
The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists has called on the US government to put pressure on India to end a media crackdown and release six detained journalists, including four from India-administered Kashmir.
CPJ president Jodie Ginsberg issued the statement ahead of a state visit to Washington next week by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She said there had been an increasing crackdown on India's media since Modi came to power in 2014, highlighting the detention of six Indian journalists, who were covering the impact of the country’s security laws. As the world’s largest democracy, India needs to live up to that by ensuring a free and independent media, Ginsberg said.
*) Paramilitary group RSF accused of killing Sudan's West Darfur governor
Sudan's military has accused the paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), of carrying out the killing of West Darfur Governor Khamis Abbakar in the city of El Geneina.
The army said Abakar’s killing on Wednesday meant the RSF has added what it describes as "a new chapter to its record of barbaric crimes” committed against Sudanese people.
An adviser in the RSF did not deny or confirm Abbakar's killing. In a television interview shortly before his death, Abbakar had called for international intervention in what he described as a "genocide" in Sudan.
*) Australia veteran accused of killing Afghan civilians refuses to apologise
Australia's most decorated war veteran, found by a civil court to have played a part in the murder of Afghan civilians during Afghanistan's invasion, has refused to apologise for his actions.
Ben Roberts-Smith said he remained proud of his actions in Afghanistan, where he served in the Special Air Service on six tours from 2006 to 2012.
Roberts-Smith has been accused of violating the rules of engagement and involvement in the murder of at least six unarmed prisoners in Afghanistan.
In one incident, Roberts-Smith allegedly kicked a handcuffed Afghan civilian off a cliff and ordered two subordinates to shoot the man dead.
*) German curator on a mission to return heirlooms stolen from Jews by Nazis
Matthias Weniger, a curator at the Munich Museum in Germany is on a mission to return as many heirlooms as possible that were stolen by the Nazi forces from Jewish families during World War II.
Many owners were murdered in the Holocaust or, if they succeeded to flee from the Nazis, ended up in far-flung corners of the globe.
Despite these odds, and with a combination of thorough detective work and deep knowledge of history, Weniger has so far managed to return about 50 objects to family members and relatives of the original owners.
Surviving family members say they are happy to have the heirlooms back, despite the pain triggered by the loss of their relatives.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, June 14th.
*) Former US President Trump lashes out after federal indictment
Former US president Donald Trump has lashed out at federal prosecutors following his indictment for allegedly mishandling top government secrets.
Trump pleaded "not guilty" on Tuesday to over a dozen criminal felony charges filed before a federal court in Florida.
Trump says the charges against him are a form of "election interference”, while claiming that he was cheated in the 2020 presidential election.
Trump is seeking the Republican nomination in a bid to return to the White House in the 2024 presidential election.
*) Over 100 wedding guests drown in Nigeria boat disaster
A wedding reception in Nigeria has turned into a tragedy after more than 100 guests drowned when their ferry sank in a river in Kwara State.
A Kwara State police spokesperson said 103 people had died and 100 survived.
Kwara State governor's office said the victims had been returning from a wedding in Niger State to Kwara's Patigi district when the accident happened.
Most of those who drowned were family members who attended the wedding and partied late into the night, police said.
*) Beijing offers 'Chinese wisdom' to restore Palestine's legitimate rights
China has said it is willing to help broker talks between Palestine and Israel that have deteriorated to the lowest level in recent years.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is in Beijing on a three-day state visit in which he hopes to demonstrate that there is Chinese support for Palestine’s bid for an officially recognised state.
Foreign Minister Qin (Chin) Gang says China attaches great importance to the Palestinian issue and will continue to support peace talks, while offering what he calls "Chinese wisdom" to resolve the ongoing diplomatic crisis.
While in China, Abbas is also scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss the Palestinian cause and other regional issues.
*) Saudi Arabia announces Sudan aid conference as fighting rages
Saudi Arabia is hosting an international conference on June 19 to gather aid pledges for conflict-ravaged Sudan, where the UN says more than half the population urgently needs aid.
The country would jointly lead the meeting with Qatar, Egypt, Germany and the European Union, as well as UN agencies.
Saudi Arabia and the United States have been mediating in the eight-week fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary RSF.
A record 25 million people are in need of aid and protection in Sudan, the UN says. As of late May, the world body only managed to raise $2.6 million to address the crisis.
And finally…
*) Colombia searches for dog who helped find missing kids in Amazon
A six-year-old tracker dog named Wilson, who went missing following a plane crash in the Colombian Amazon, is now the subject of a rescue mission.
Dozens of soldiers are scouring the jungle for the canine hero that disappeared on duty two weeks ago.
As relief settled following the rescue of the children aged 13, 9, 5 and 1, Colombians are now clamouring on social media for the safe return of Wilson as well.
The military vowed not to "abandon a fallen comrade" who may have found the four children, who survived the crash on May 1, long before the rescue team arrived.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, June 13th.
*) Trump to face criminal charges in US national-security documents case
Donald Trump is set to face criminal charges of unlawfully keeping US national-security documents and lying to officials who tried to recover them.
He arrived in Florida ahead of his court appearance on Tuesday as the first former US president to face a federal indictment.
In total, there are 37 federal charges relating to sensitive files he kept at his Florida home.
*) Ukraine claims recapture of three more settlements in southeast
Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar has said that the country's forces made further advances in a counter-offensive launched last week.
In a Telegram post, she said seven settlements had been liberated, including three not previously claimed in the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region.
Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that the long-anticipated Ukrainian counter-offensive had started.
*) Kenya mediates talks between Sudanese generals in effort to resolve crisis
Kenya has taken the initiative to bring together Sudan’s warring generals to end the crisis plaguing the country, President William Ruto announced.
Ruto announced that within two weeks, a humanitarian corridor will be established to streamline the distribution of aid.
The move comes as the conflict between the Sudanese army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has escalated, resulting in the loss of nearly a thousand lives.
*) Turkish Cypriots have never been a minority: Türkiye's Erdogan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Türkiye will continue to protect the rights of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
During a visit to TRNC, he called on Greek Cypriots to stop what he calls their 'maximalist approach' towards a two-state solution for Cyprus.
He said Türkiye will only return to the negotiating table if the republic is officially recognised.
And finally…
*) Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi has died
Italy’s Former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has died, his spokesman confirmed.
The billionaire media mogul was admitted to a Milan hospital on Friday for what aides said were pre-planned tests related to his leukaemia.
Berlusconi had suffered ill health for years, from heart surgery in 2016 to a 2020 hospitalisation for coronavirus.
Despite being re-elected to the Senate last year, he was rarely seen in public.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, June 12th.
*) Shelling, fighting resume in Sudan as latest ceasefire ends
Heavy artillery fire was heard in Sudan’s capital Khartoum and its twin city Omdurman to the north, and fighting also erupted on Al Hawa Street, witnesses said.
The latest in a series of ceasefire agreements enabled civilians trapped in Khartoum to venture outside and stock up on food and other essential supplies.
But only 10 minutes after it ended on Sunday morning, the capital was rocked again by shelling and clashes, witnesses said.
*) Russia, Ukraine swap nearly 200 in prisoner exchange
Russia and Ukraine have swapped a total of nearly 200 prisoners, both sides announced.
Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukraine’s President's Office, said Ukraine is getting back 95 people, including soldiers from the Armed Forces, National Guard and border guards.
Yermak said that these soldiers served in Mariupol, Chernobyl, Snake Island, near Bakhmut and Azovstal factory.
Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry said that 94 Russian soldiers were released after negotiations with Ukraine.
*) EU offers Tunisia $1B to boost economy, curb illegal migration
The European Union has offered major financial support to crisis-hit Tunisia, to boost its economy and reduce the flow of irregular migrants across the Mediterranean Sea.
The bloc offers Tunisia a $968 million package plus $161 million in immediate support.
European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement on a joint visit with the Italian and Dutch prime ministers on Sunday.
*) Turkish Cypriot president hails President Erdogan’s visit to TRNC
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has planned to make the first overseas visit of his new term to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
This decision was welcomed by TRNC President Ersin Tatar, who said it “demonstrates the importance and value that Türkiye attaches to the TRNC.”
Highlighting the importance of Erdogan's visit on Monday, Tatar said the trip would send a message to the world that the TRNC "is a state."
And finally…
*) Incredible feeling': Djokovic wins record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title
Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic has made history with a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title in a third French Open triumph.
The 36-year-old Serb defeated Casper Ruud of Norway and snapped the tie of 22 Slams he shared with career-long rival Rafael Nadal.
Victory for the third time in Paris, after 2016 and 2021, adds to his 10 Australian Open titles, seven at Wimbledon and three at the US Open.
Djokovic is the first man to win all four majors at least three times.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, June 9th.
*) Saudi Arabia rules out normalisation with Israel without two-state solution
The Saudi foreign minister has said that normalisation of ties with Israel "is in the interest of the region" but without giving Palestinians "dignity and justice" such a move will have limited benefits.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan was speaking alongside US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Riyadh.
"We should continue to focus on finding a pathway towards a two-state solution," Prince Faisal bin Farhan said.
Blinken for his part urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to undermine prospects for a Palestinian state.
*) Zelenskyy hails 'results' in eastern Ukraine fighting
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has hailed what he described as the "results" in heavy fighting in Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine.
"There is very heavy fighting in Donetsk region," Zelenskyy said in his daily video message, delivered in a train after visiting areas affected by the destruction of the Kakhovka power dam.
Zelenskyy referred to other areas where fighting is going on, but said he would provide no details.
*) Hafize Gaye Erkan is Türkiye central bank's new governor
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has chosen seasoned banker Hafize Gaye Erkan to succeed Shahap Kavcioglu as the governor of Türkiye's Central Bank.
Forty-one-year-old Erkan earned a doctorate in operations research and financial engineering at Princeton University.
She also completed two training programmes on management sciences at Harvard Business School and leadership at Stanford University.
Erkan has held a number of top posts at major banks and companies including US-based First Republic Bank and Marsh McLennan, Goldman Sachs, and Tiffany & Co.
*) US Senate confirms highest-ranking Muslim in govt despite GOP blockade
The US Senate has confirmed Dilawar Syed as deputy administrator of the Small Business Administration, ending more than two years of delays after a blockade by Republicans in the last Congress.
Syed, a Pakistani-born businessman, will be the highest-ranking Muslim official in the US government.
Republicans on the Small Business Committee had blocked his nomination, citing the agency's payouts to abortion providers and other reasons.
And finally…
*) Canada wildfire smoke cloaks eastern US with haze
Smoke from Canadian wildfires again shrouded US cities in a noxious haze, delaying flights and disrupting outdoor events in what President Joe Biden called a "stark reminder" of the climate crisis.
Thick skies and an acrid campfire smell hung over the capital Washington on Thursday and early Friday.
This exceeded some of the most polluted cities in the world in South Asia and China, leading many residents to wear masks to protect their health.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, June 8th.
*) World Bank to assess damaged Ukraine dam
The World Bank says it will conduct a rapid assessment of damages and needs after the destruction of the huge Novo Kakhova hydroelectric dam in Ukraine.
The region’s governor said the flooding from the dam breach extended over 600 square kilometres on the Ukrainian-held right bank of the Dnipro River.
Meanwhile, Türkiye’s President-elect Recep Tayyip Erdogan has proposed a “comprehensive investigation” into the explosion at the dam.
He said the investigation should be conducted “in a way that leaves no room for suspicion.”
*) Tunisia recovers bodies of African refugees after new boat disaster
The Tunisian Coast Guard has recovered the bodies of nine African refugees and migrants and rescued 29 after their boat sank off the coast of Monastir.
The country, whose coastline is less than 150 kilometres from the Italian island of Lampedusa, is a favoured spot for irregular refugees and migrants attempting the journey.
In recent years, thousands have either died or gone missing trying to cross the Mediterranean.
*) Hundreds of Sudanese children rescued from an orphanage
About 300 infants, toddlers and older children have been rescued from an orphanage in Sudan’s capital after being trapped there while fighting raged outside.
The evacuation at the4 Al Maygoma orphanage came after 71 children died from hunger and illness in the facility since mid-April.
The deaths have highlighted the heavy toll inflicted on civilians since mid-April when clashes erupted between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.
*) Canada wildfires trigger air quality alerts for 100 million in US
More than 100 million people in the United States are living under air quality alerts caused by Canadian wildfires.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the region "includes much of the Northeast US — extending to Chicago to the west and Atlanta to the south".
The devastating fires have displaced more than 20,000 people and scorched about 3.8 million hectares of land in Canada,
And finally…
*) Messi chooses Inter Miami over Saudi, Spain football clubs
Lionel Messi says he is planning to sign with Inter Miami.
The global soccer icon is choosing the United States as his next destination over a Barcelona reunion or blockbuster deal to play in Saudi Arabia.
The 35-year-old 2022 FIFA World Cup winner joined PSG in 2021, and will leave the French powerhouse when his contract expires on June 30.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Tens of thousands at flooding risk after Ukraine dam collapse
About 42,000 people are at risk from flooding in Russian and Ukrainian controlled areas along the Dnipro River after a dam collapsed.
Ukraine said Russia committed a deliberate war crime in blowing up the Soviet-era Nova Kakhovka dam, which powered a hydroelectric station.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin blamed Ukraine, saying it was trying to distract from the launch of a major counteroffensive Moscow says is faltering.
*) Blinken meets Mohammed Bin Salman in bid to restore strained Saudi-US ties
Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have met to discuss bilateral relations, Saudi state news agency (SPA) says.
They also discussed "aspects of cooperation in various fields and developments in regional and international situations", the agency added.
Blinken arrived in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday on a mission to steady Washington's relationship with Riyadh after years of deepening disagreements.
*) Khartoum islanders 'under siege' as Sudan fighting rages
Battles have continued to rage in Sudan's capital of Khartoum and residents of an island in the Nile reported being "under siege".
A number of broken ceasefires offered brief lulls but no respite for residents who again reported "the sound of heavy artillery fire" in the city's north.
Witnesses also said there were "clashes with various types of weapons" in south Khartoum, where "the sound of explosions shook our walls".
*) Erdogan: We will build 'Century of Türkiye' together
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has held the first meeting of his new Cabinet in Ankara.
Erdogan said Turkish democracy has become a point of reference for the world after record participation in both the May 14 and May 28 elections.
He also vowed to embrace all 85 million Turkish citizens and to build the "Century of Türkiye" all together.
*) 'A new tiger will roar': Saudi champions Al Ittihad sign Karim Benzema
Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema has signed a three-year deal with Al Ittihad, the Jeddah-based club confirms.
"Benzema is here. A new tiger will roar," the club wrote on Twitter.
Benzema will join his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in the Gulf kingdom.
The announcement comes days after Real Madrid said that the 35-year-old Benzema was leaving the club after 14 seasons.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, June 6th.) Russia 'thwarts another major attack' in Ukraine’s DonetskRussia has said it had thwarted another major Ukrainian offensive in Donetsk, inflicting heavy losses.Moscow said earlier that Kiev’s forces had begun a major offensive in the southern part of the Donetsk region over the weekend, which it had also thwarted.Ukrainian officials have not commented on if these attacks mark the start of the country’s long-anticipated counteroffensive.) Shelling, looting in Sudan's capital as military rivals continue battleShelling has hit western areas of Sudan's capital after rival military factions fought through the night, residents said.Residents reported intense fighting across Khartoum, Omdurman and Bahri cities, and smoke was seen rising from several areas on Monday.They also said RSF troops, who have spread out in neighbourhoods across the capital, were in full control and were looting extensively.) UN condemns killing of Palestinian toddler by Israeli armyA Palestinian toddler who was shot by Israeli troops in the occupied West Bank last week has died of his wounds, Israeli hospital officials have said.Mohammed al Tamimi was shot in the head last Thursday near his village of Nabi Salih while riding in a car with his father. The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process condemned the killing and urged Israeli authorities to hold those responsible accountable.) Iran set to reopen its embassy in Saudi Arabia after seven-year hiatusIran is set to reopen its embassy in Saudi Arabia following a seven-year closure, sealing a Chinese-brokered rapprochement deal earlier this year.Tehran's foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani announced the reopening in a statement on Monday.Saudi Arabia severed relations with Iran in 2016 after its embassy in Tehran and consulate in Mashhad were attacked over the execution of Shia cleric Nimr al Nimr.And finally…*) Former VP Mike Pence formally enters 2024 US presidential raceFormer US Vice President Mike Pence has officially declared himself a candidate in the 2024 Republican race for the White House.Pence will launch his campaign with a video and a speech in the early nominating state of Iowa, according to sources familiar with the situation.His run pits him against Donald Trump, whom he once stood by but refused to back when the former president attempted to overturn the 2020 election results.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Russian forces 'thwart' major Ukrainian attackThe Russian Defence Ministry has said its forces pushed back a “large scale” Ukrainian assault at five points in Donetsk. Donetsk is one of four Ukrainian regions Russia illegally annexed last fall.Ministry Spokesperson Igor Konashenkov said Ukraine “did not achieve its tasks” and 250 Ukrainian personnel were killed.16 Ukrainian tanks, three infantry fighting vehicles and 21 armoured combat vehicles were also destroyed, he said. There was no comment from Ukraine.) India: Deadly train crash caused by signal system failureThe cause of a train disaster that left more than 300 people dead and hundreds more injured in India was linked to the signal system, the railway minister said.Railway officials had said a signalling error sent the Coromandel Express onto a side track where it slammed into a freight train and derailed an express train.The minister confirmed this, saying a "change that occurred during electronic interlocking” caused the accident. He said “whoever did it, and how it happened, will be found out after proper investigation”.) Sudan battles rage as US, Saudi renew push for fresh ceasefireThe United States and Saudi Arabia have made a renewed push for truce talks between Sudan's warring generals as deadly fighting has raged into its eighth week.The foreign mediators called for "the parties to agree to and effectively implement a new ceasefire, with the aim of building to a permanent cessation of hostilities", Riyadh said.A five-day extension of an earlier truce formally expired on Saturday evening, with no signs of the conflict abating and fears that the rival sides were poised for an escalation.Deadly urban battles have gripped the Sudanese capital Khartoum and Darfur region, after fighting erupted between the regular army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.) Stoltenberg thanks Türkiye for sending reinforcements to KosovoThe chief of NATO has expressed gratitude to Türkiye for its efforts in Kosovo during a meeting in Istanbul with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said: "I thank Türkiye for sending reinforcements to northern Kosovo following the recent unrest" in the region.In Kosovo last week, at least 30 soldiers of the NATO-led international peacekeeping mission were injured in clashes with protesting Serbs.*) Saudi Arabia further cuts oil output by 1M bpd to boost falling pricesSaudi Arabia will cut one million barrels of oil per day in July but "can be extended", the energy minister said.Saudi Arabia, the dominant producer in the OPEC+ alliance, was one of several members that agreed on a surprise cut of 1.16 million barrels per day in April.That the country felt another cut was necessary underlines the uncertain outlook for demand for fuel in the months ahead.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, June 2nd.) Deadly protests rock Senegal as court sentences opposition’s Sonko to jailNine people have been killed in Senegal in clashes between riot police and supporters of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko after a court sentenced him to two years in jail. The government said that the deaths occurred after protests broke out in parts of the capital Dakar and other cities.The court ruling cast serious doubt on the opposition leader’s chances of running for president next year.) US averts first-ever default as Congress passes debt dealFending off a US default, the Senate has given final approval to a ceiling and budget cuts package, and sent it to President Joe Biden for signing it into law before the fast-approaching deadline.The upper chamber of Congress late on Thursday rubber-stamped a bill passed a day earlier by the House of Representatives to extend the country’s borrowing authority through 2024.The compromise package negotiated between Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy leaves neither Republicans nor Democrats fully pleased with the outcome.) US imposes sanctions in Sudan as warring sides fail to abide by ceasefireThe United States has announced that it will levy sanctions against key defence companies and people “perpetuating the violence” in Sudan as warring sides fail to abide by a ceasefire agreement.White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the measures are intended to hold accountable those responsible for undermining the peace, security and stability of Sudan.Sullivan further said the ongoing fighting in Sudan between the Sudanese army and the RSF paramilitary group is a tragedy that has already stolen far too many lives, and that it must end.) Türkiye: Sweden must fulfil commitments against terrorism for NATO bidTürkiye has called on Sweden to fulfil its commitments regarding the fight against terrorism in order to start the ratification of the Nordic country’s accession to NATO.Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Twitter that Stockholm should fulfil its commitments arising from the trilateral memorandum, and take concrete steps in the fight against terrorism.Earlier, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom, during his doorstep remarks at NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Oslo called on Türkiye and Hungary to ratify Sweden’s bid.And finally…*) Heatwave and wildfires bake Canada’s eastEastern Canada continues to swelter under a record-breaking heatwave that risks inflaming wildfires ravaging the Atlantic coast and other parts of the country.More than 210 fires were burning across Canada, including 82 out of control. Officials said more than 2.7 million hectares have been scorched already this year.Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair told a news conference that the conditions this early in the season are unprecedented and it is deeply concerning.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Sudan’s army bombs RSF bases in KhartoumSudanese army forces have blasted the bases of the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group with artillery in Khartoum. The flare-up comes after the army pulled out of Saudi-brokered ceasefire talks, accusing their foes of failing to honour their commitments.On Wednesday, in both the north and south of the capital, key bases of commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo’s RSF paramilitary came under attack by troops loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al Burhan, residents said.) US House votes to avert default, advancing Biden-McCarthy deal to SenateThe US House has approved a debt ceiling and budget cuts package, advancing President Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s deal to the Senate.The hard-fought deal pleased few, but lawmakers assessed it was better than the alternative — a devastating economic upheaval if Congress failed to act.Tensions ran high as hard-right Republicans refused the deal to raise the nation’s debt limit, while Democrats said “extremist” GOP views were risking a debt default as soon as next week.) UN proposes ‘mutually beneficial’ system to improve grain dealThe United Nations has proposed that Kiev, Moscow and Ankara start preparatory work for the transit of Russian ammonia through Ukraine, a source close to the talks said.The UN wants parallel talks to be held on widening the Black Sea deal that was agreed last July to include more Ukrainian ports and other cargoes, said the source.Russia agreed this month to a two-month extension of the deal but has said the initiative will cease unless an agreement aimed at overcoming obstacles to Russian grain and fertiliser exports is fulfilled.) Firefighters battle ‘unprecedented’ wildfires in CanadaFirefighters have faced a gruelling uphill battle against wildfires in Canada’s Nova Scotia province, including one threatening the suburbs of Halifax.Federal help was coming to the Atlantic province, officials said, along with firefighters from the United States.Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston told a news conference they will take all the support they can get, adding that “these fires are unprecedented.”*) Earth in ‘danger zone’ in all ecological ways, scientists sayEarth has pushed past seven out of eight scientifically established safety limits and into “the danger zone,” according to a new study. The ‘danger zone’ is not just for an overheating planet that’s losing its natural areas, but for the well-being of people living on it.The study published on Wednesday looks not just at guardrails for the planetary ecosystem, but for the first time it includes measures of “justice,” which is mostly about preventing harm for countries, ethnicities and genders.
) Deal averting debt default passes first test in US CongressA deal to raise the US debt ceiling has passed its first major test in Congress, surviving a crucial vote amid a conservative backlash that resurrected the threat of the country’s first-ever default.Lawmakers have until Monday next week to green-light an agreement between Republicans and Democrats to allow more borrowing and ensure the country doesn't miss loan repayments.There were sighs of relief across Washington as Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Democratic President Joe Biden agreed on the 99-page “Fiscal Responsibility Act”.) North Korea’s bid to launch country’s first spy satellite failsNorth Korea has said that its attempt to launch the country’s first spy satellite has failed.In a statement published on state media, North Korea said a rocket carrying the spy satellite crashed into waters off the Korean Peninsula’s western coast.The crash occurred after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages.It said scientists were examining the cause of the failure.) Fighting subsides in Sudan’s capital after extension of ceasefireIntense fighting has subsided in Sudan’s capital although sounds of gunfire could still be heard in some areas, residents said. The fighting decreased after warring parties — the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces group — battling for more than six weeks agreed to extend a ceasefire just before it was due to expire.Hours before the ceasefire extension was signed, residents reported intensive fighting in all three of the adjoining cities that make up Sudan’s greater capital.) Several dead in Ukraine shelling of Luhansk village: RussiaFour people have been killed and 16 injured as a result of Ukraine’s shelling of the Karpaty village in the Luhansk region, the Moscow-backed local coordination centre said.The centre said on its Telegram messaging channel the shelling hit a poultry farm.There was no immediate response from Ukraine, but Kiev almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine.And finally…*) First Saudi woman in orbit, other astronauts, splash down off FloridaA private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers has returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station.The capsule carrying the four parachuted into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, 12 hours after undocking from the orbiting lab.The Saudi government picked up the tab for its two astronauts: Rayyanah Barnawi, a stem cell researcher who became the first Saudi woman in space; and fighter pilot Ali al Qarni.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, May 30th.) Türkiye calls for calm in Kosovo as clashes injure 25 NATO soldiersAt least 25 soldiers of the NATO-led international peacekeeping mission in Kosovo have been injured in clashes with protesting ethnic Serbs.In response, Türkiye has called on all parties in northern Kosovo to return to dialogue and calm.The Turkish Foreign Ministry said it is following the events with concern, adding that these events harm regional security and stability.) Sudanese generals extend truce for five daysWarring sides in Sudan have agreed to extend a humanitarian ceasefire by five days.But residents told AFP news agency they could hear gunfire after dark, shortly before the ceasefire extension was announced.A day earlier, mediators from the US and Saudi Arabia had said there were "violations by both parties that significantly impeded" the truce's goals of allowing humanitarian aid for civilians.) Russia launches massive new air assault on KievRussia has launched a fresh wave of attacks on Kiev in the early hours of Tuesday.Kiev city officials said its air defence systems were engaging incoming targets as air raid sirens blared in several other regions.Falling debris hit several districts of the capital, including the Podil and Pecherskyi neighbourhoods.) Iran will welcome restoration of diplomatic ties with Egypt: KhameneiIran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has said he would welcome a resumption of diplomatic relations with Egypt, during a meeting with Oman’s visiting Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.Khamenei said that the Omani leader had told him that Egypt would be willing to resume relations.He also called for a deepening of ties between Oman and Iran.And finally…*) Chinese Shenzhou-16 mission carries new crew to its orbiting space stationChina has sent three astronauts to its Tiangong space station, putting a civilian scientist into space for the first time.The Shenzhou-16 crew took off atop a Long March 2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China.The world’s second-largest economy has invested billions of dollars in its military-run space programme in a push to catch up with the US and Russia.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, May 29th.) Erdogan wins Türkiye presidential run-off vote – election bodyTürkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has beaten the opposition’s combined candidate, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, in the presidential run-off election.According to unofficial results, the Turkish incumbent won the race with 52.16 percent, while Kilicdaroglu got 47.84 percent of the votes. Erdogan's reelection was confirmed by the chairman of the country's Supreme Election Council (YSK) on Sunday evening.Currently, 99.85 percent of the ballot boxes have been opened.) 'Century of Türkiye': Erdogan hails his victory as triumph of democracyIn an address to the nation following the preliminary results of the 2023 presidential elections, Erdogan hailed his victory as a triumph of democracy.He spoke before hundreds of thousands of people who had gathered in the courtyard of the presidential complex in Ankara.Erdogan expressed gratitude to his fellow countrymen for their faith in his leadership and called for unity in pursuit of national goals and dreams.He declared that the true winners of Sunday’s run-off polls were 85 million Turkish citizens and the Turkish democracy.) Türkiye elections: World leaders congratulate Erdogan on 'historic victory'Leaders from around the world have congratulated Erdogan on his reelection.The United Nations, NATO and European Union all said they look forward to further strengthening their collaboration with Türkiye.And from US President Joe Biden to Russian President Vladimir Putin, world leaders also said they looked forward to continuing to work together with Türkiye.Videos posted on social media also showed celebrations for Erdogan’s victory in some countries like Germany, Syria and Azerbaijan.) Kiev repels air strikes, day after Russian bombardmentKiev has repelled another large volley of overnight air strikes, as the Ukrainian capital was still picking up the pieces from the biggest drone attack to hit it since the war began.Local air defences managed to fend off more than 40 Russian drones and cruise missiles, and there were no casualties, authorities said.Meanwhile, Russia hit a military target in Ukraine's western region of Khmelnytskiy in air strikes early on Monday.And finally…*) Heavy clashes in Sudan's capital as truce set to expireHeavy and sustained clashes could be heard in parts of Sudan's capital, residents said, hours before the expiry of a shaky ceasefire deal.Fighting continued from Sunday into Monday in the south and west of Omdurman, one of three adjoining cities that make up Sudan's greater capital. Across the River Nile in southern Khartoum residents also reported clashes late on Sunday.Both sides have said they are considering extending a deal for a week-long ceasefire brokered by Saudi Arabia and the United States that was designed to allow for the distribution of aid.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Ukraine sees increased danger of Russian missile strikesMilitary authorities in the Ukrainian capital Kiev have reported an increased danger of Russian missile strikes and said anti-aircraft defences were working.Russia has allegedly launched hundreds of rocket attacks against targets across Ukraine since last October, seeking to destroy critical infrastructure and other targets.In recent weeks Ukraine said it has knocked out most of the missiles.) Israel to vote on bill targeting human rights institutionsA ministers’ committee on legislative affairs is set to discuss the security of human rights institutions in Israel.The bill, proposed by a right-wing Knesset member Ariel Kallner, targets human rights institutions rejecting the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories.Dozens of Israeli human rights organisations active in Israel criticise the occupation policies in the Palestinian territories.) Pakistan’s Imran Khan moves top court against military trial of civiliansPakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan has approached the country’s top court against the trial of his supporters in military courts and deployment of armed forces in parts of the country. Khan has requested the Supreme Court to term the move unconstitutional.Calling it “undeclared martial law,” Khan petitioned that the arrests, investigations, and trials under the Army Act of 1952 “amount to negation of the Constitution, rule of law and independence of the judiciary.”) African Union warns continent must not become 'geostrategic battleground'The African Union has warned that Africa must not become a "geostrategic battleground" for global powers, as it grapples with several threats to its own peace and security.The continent of 1.3 billion people has found itself at the centre of a tussle for influence among the major powers, which has redoubled since Russia's invasion of Ukraine 15 months ago.And just as the AU marked the anniversary of the creation of its forerunner, the Organisation of African Unity, Ukraine itself announced it wanted to boost ties with Africa.*) Musk’s Neuralink ‘cleared’ for human test of brain implantsElon Musk’s start-up Neuralink has said it has received approval from the US regulators to test its brain implants in people.Neuralink said clearance from the FDA for its first-in-human clinical study is “an important first step” for its technology, which is intended to let brains interface directly with computers.On at least four occasions since 2019, Musk has predicted that his medical device company would soon start human trials of a brain implant to treat intractable conditions such as paralysis and blindness.
) Ron DeSantis announces 2024 White House bid in Twitter event with MuskFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis has entered the 2024 presidential race, stepping into a crowded Republican primary contest.The 44-year-old Republican revealed his decision in a Federal Election Commission filing before addressing his decision in a video posted on social media.DeSantis vowed to build a wall on the border with Mexico and not restrict usage of Bitcoin.) Pakistan’s Imran Khan softens demand for snap vote as allies quit partyPakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan has softened his year-long demand for early election. Khan said he is forming a committee for talks with the government to end the country’s lingering political turmoil.The offer, if accepted by the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, may help ease political tensions amid the country’s stalled talks with the International Monetary Fund.Although not a member of parliament, Khan leads a broad opposition movement against the government.) US approves $285M sale of NASAMS air defence system to UkraineThe United States has announced the approval of a $285 million sale of a NASAMS air defence system and related equipment to Ukraine as Kiev seeks to boost protection against Russian strikes.The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency said the sale will support US foreign policy national security goals by “improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.”The sale would not require any additional US government employees or contractors to be assigned to Ukraine, the agency said.) Türkiye rescues nearly 100 refugees and migrants pushed back by GreeceTürkiye has rescued 96 irregular refugees and migrants in separate incidents in an Aegean province, the country’s Coast Guard Command said.Fifty refugees and migrants on two lifeboats off Mugla’s Datca district were saved after being pushed into Turkish territorial waters by Greek forces, the coast guard said in a statement.Separately, 46 refugees and migrants pushed into Turkish territorial waters by Greek forces were rescued off the coast of Dalaman district, it added.*) ‘Queen of rock ‘n’ roll’ Tina Turner dies aged 83Tina Turner, the American-born singer who became one of the top recording artists of all time, has died at the age of 83.She died peacefully after a long illness in her home in Kusnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, her representative said.Turner began her career in the 1950s during the early years of rock and roll and evolved into a phenomenon. Sometimes nicknamed the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Turner won six of her eight Grammy Awards in the 1980s.
) Russia says Ukraine’s attack on Belgorod region ‘repelled’Several drones struck Russia’s border region of Belgorod overnight, a day after an armed group infiltrated the area from Ukraine, the local governor said.Belgorod’s governor wrote on Telegram that the drones struck houses and a government building, leaving one woman dead and injuring eight others.Meanwhile, calling it a “terrorist” attack, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed that Ukraine’s attack on the Belgorod region was repelled.) Thousands rally in Israel against budget 'looting' for ultra-Orthodox JewsThousands of Israelis have protested the allocation of funds to ultra-Orthodox Jews in the far-right government's proposed state budget.Ahead of the budget votes beginning late Tuesday and continuing on Wednesday, the drum-beating protesters, bearing Israeli flags, marched to parliament. They accused the ruling coalition of "looting" the state's money.) Over 450 Catholic clergy sexually abused nearly 2,000 children in IllinoisMore than 450 Catholic clergy in Illinois have sexually abused nearly 2,000 children since 1950, the state's attorney general has found in an investigation. The investigation revealed that the problem was far worse than the church had let on.But the Illinois State Attorney General Kwame Raoul said at a news conference on Tuesday that the statute of limitations has expired in many cases and that those abusers "will never see justice in a legal sense.") 'Stolen': UK royals refuse to return remains of teenage Ethiopian princeBuckingham Palace has refused to return the body of a teenage Ethiopian prince who was buried at Windsor Castle 144 years ago.A descendant of Prince Alemayehu – an orphan who was adored and supported financially by Queen Victoria and died at the age of 18 – has demanded that his remains be returned to Ethiopia.However, Buckingham Palace has rejected the call once again, saying that removing the body would affect others buried in the catacombs of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.*) Hollywood urged to depict safer gun use as US mass killings riseA report by USC Annenberg's Norman Lear Center for Hollywood, Health and Society said Hollywood should portray safer use of guns in TV and film at a time of rampant gun violence in the US.Norman Lear Center's programme director Kate Folb said if television can embrace depicting gun safety, we will see people in America become more comfortable with securing their guns safely at home.Folb, who has spent years studying the correlation between entertainment and society, is of the view that simply showing safe gun storage onscreen can have a lasting impact.
) Voting abroad continues in Türkiye’s runoff presidential electionsVoting by Turks living abroad has continued for Türkiye’s May 28 presidential runoff elections, with over 1.4 million Turkish nationals casting ballots so far.Voting at diplomatic missions will end on May 24, while the process will continue at customs gates until 5 pm local time on May 28.Votes cast in Estonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Lithuania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Poland were sent to Türkiye.) Third-place Ogan endorses Erdogan in Türkiye's presidential runoff voteMeanwhile in Türkiye, Sinan Ogan, who came third in last week's presidential election in Türkiye, has endorsed President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the runoff vote on May 28.Calling on his supporters to back Erdogan in the runoff, he said the two had all kinds of consultations before making the decision.Erdogan will face Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the chairman of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) and joint candidate for the Nation Alliance, in the runoff vote.) Air strikes, combat as one-week Sudan truce officially startsWitnesses in the Sudanese capital Khartoum have reported clashes and air strikes minutes after a one-week humanitarian ceasefire took effect.The army and the rival paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces reached the agreement in Saudi Arabia over the weekend. The truce is intended to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid. After more than five weeks of fighting, the conflict has killed hundreds of people, and left hundreds of thousands more displaced. ) Russia evacuates civilians from Belgorod regionKremlin forces have battled a cross-border incursion by what it calls a Ukrainian sabotage group, in Russia's Belgorod region. Kiev denies its involvement.The city's governor says a number of people had been injured in clashes with what they call 'saboteurs'. Ukraine has denied any involvement, claiming it was actually two armed Russian opposition groups that had carried out the attacks. Meanwhile, Kiev says its forces are still holding on to parts of the eastern city of Bakhmut - despite Russian mercenary Wagner group and the Kremlin saying they had seized the city. *) G20 meeting kicks off in disputed Kashmir sans China, Saudi Arabia, othersA G20 tourism meeting has begun under tight security in India-administered Kashmir.The three-day meeting that began on Monday is the first significant international event in Kashmir since New Delhi stripped the Muslim-majority region of its semi-autonomy in 2019.Indian authorities hope the meeting will show that the contentious changes have brought peace and prosperity to the region.But both China and Pakistan have condemned holding the event in the disputed territory, which is split between New Delhi and Islamabad, both of whom claim it in full.
) Battle for Bakhmut: Russia claims control but Ukraine says fight not overAlthough Russia claims it has won control of Ukraine's eastern city of Bakhmut, top Ukrainian military leaders say the battle is not over.Russia’s defence ministry said Wagner mercenaries backed by Russian troops had seized the city, after a grinding nine-month conflict in which tens of thousands of fighters have died.However, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Bakhmut was not being fully occupied.) Arab countries condemn Israeli minister’s storming of Al Aqsa complexJordan, Qatar and Egypt have condemned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir’s storming of Al Aqsa Mosque complex in occupied East Jerusalem.The far-right minister had forced his way into the flashpoint site early Sunday under Israeli police protection, in the second such tour since he joined the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu late last year.While inside the site, Ben-Gvir claimed Israel's ownership of the complex in a video message from the mosque's courtyard.) Israel kills three Palestinians in occupied West Bank refugee campIsraeli security forces have killed three Palestinians during a raid in the occupied West Bank early on Monday, the Palestinian health ministry said.Gunfire and loud explosions rocked the Balata refugee camp in Nablus, witnesses said, adding that a house was demolished.The Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, the armed wing of Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah party, said the three were among the group's fighters.) US, Papua New Guinea to sign defence pact amid competition with ChinaPapua New Guinea will sign a defence pact with the United States, giving US forces access to its airfields and ports. This comes as Washington vies with China's growing footprint in the Pacific region.The State Department said the new agreement would provide a framework to help improve security cooperation, enhance the capacity of PNG’s defence force and increase regional stability.By signing the security deal with PNG Prime Minister James Marape, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will also expand the US military's capacity to deploy in the region.*) Greece PM's party wins election, but not outright victory: initial resultsGreek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' party has registered a victory at the election, the first results show but fell short of an outright majority to rule alone.With just over 50 percent of the ballot counted on Sunday, his New Democracy party was credited with 40.9 percent of the votes.His party had a 20-point lead ahead of his nearest rival, Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party, which garnered 20.1 percent.Now, Mitsotakis will either enter into tough negotiations with his rivals to seek a coalition or he could opt to head to a new election, likely in early July.
) Palestinians protesting 'Flag March' face Israeli fireIsraeli forces have fired tear gas and live bullets at Palestinians in occupied Gaza as they protested against a "flag march" in occupied Jerusalem.One Gaza resident was wounded in the protests against the annual event marking Israel's capture of Jerusalem in the 1967 war.Thousands of illegal Israeli settlers and far-right Israelis had gathered in occupied East Jerusalem, raising racist chants against Arabs and also storming Al Aqsa Mosque compound.) Pakistan police outside Imran Khan's housePakistani police have kept up their presence around the home of former prime minister Imran Khan as a deadline to hand over suspects allegedly sheltered inside expired.The siege and the authorities' demand for the suspects, wanted in violent protests over Khan's recent detention, have raised fears of renewed clashes.Khan had demanded a probe into the violence, but denied his supporters were behind it, instead accusing Pakistan's ruling party of trying to foment trouble between his supporters and the army.) China unveils Central Asia development planChina's President Xi Jinping has unveiled an ambitious plan to help further modernise and develop Central Asia in an address at the China-Central Asia Summit.Xi said China stands ready to synergise development strategies with the five Central Asian nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.He also urged the six countries to oppose external interference in their internal affairs and maintain a zero-tolerance stance against separatism and extremism.) Scores killed in central Nigeria clashesMore than 3,000 people have been displaced in central Nigeria after 85 people were killed in clashes between herders and farmers.The violence erupted on May 15th in several villages of Plateau State, an area which has struggled with ethnic and religious tensions for years.It was unclear what triggered this week's attacks in Mangu district, but tit-for-tat killings between herders and farmers often spiral into village raids by heavily armed gangs.And finally…*) Türkiye marks Commemoration of Ataturk, Youth and Sports DayTürkiye celebrates the 104th anniversary of the Commemoration of Ataturk, Youth and Sports Day, a milestone marking the beginning of the country's War of Independence.19 May 1919 was the day when Türkiye’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk arrived in the Black Sea city of Samsun to launch the war that transformed the Turkish republic.The national holiday, dedicated to the Turkish youth by Ataturk, sees youth take part in sporting and cultural activities with official ceremonies across the country.
) Ukraine grain deal extendedRussia has agreed to extend the Türkiye-brokered Black Sea grain deal, allowing Ukraine to resume grain exports halted after the Russia-Ukraine conflict began.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the two-month extension, saying Ankara hoped to “see the days when the war between Russia and Ukraine will end”.The deal, renewed a day before it was set to expire on May 18th, eases a global food crisis exacerbated by the conflict.) Pakistan ex-PM's bail extendedPakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan has secured an extension to his protective bail until May 31st.According to Khan’s lawyer, the extension came as the prosecutor requested more time to produce details of the case against him.As for his supporters, involved in violent protests over his arrest, the information minister for Punjab province said they would be tried by military courts.) Iran, Russia transport network agreementIran and Russia have agreed to collaborate on the construction of the final part of the International North-South Transport Corridor.Iran’s Transport Minister signed the agreement with his Russian counterpart in Tehran, saying the 164-kilometre railway in Iran's north would be completed within three years.The commercial transport network passes from northeast Russia via Azerbaijan to Iran's southern coastline and on to India by sea, steering clear of Western sea lanes.Russia and Iran are both under international sanctions that restrict trade.) 843,000 internally displaced in Sudan conflictThe International Organization for Migration has announced that more than 843,000 people have been internally displaced since the start of the conflict in Sudan.In a statement, the organisation warned that 1.8 million more are expected to be internally displaced if the war persists.Nearly 259,000 people have escaped from Sudan to nearby countries since clashes began mid-April amid a power struggle between Sudan’s army and paramilitary force.*) Next five years will see hottest period everThe World Meteorological Organization has warned that the years from 2023 to 2027 will be the warmest five-year period ever recorded.There is a 98 percent chance that “at least one of the next five years, and the five-year period as a whole, will be the warmest on record,” according to the UN weather agency.As greenhouse gases and El Nino combine to send temperatures soaring, the World will soon exceed the 1.5C threshold from Paris climate accords on a temporary basis.
) Turkish women in parliamentWomen's representation in the Turkish parliament has risen to the highest level in history after Sunday’s parliamentary elections.According to the unofficial results, 121 women secured seats in the 600-member parliament.The female representation rate, which was 17.1 percent in the previous elections, rose to 20.1 percent this year.) Chinese fishing vessel capsizesA Chinese fishing vessel has capsized in the central Indian Ocean with its crew of 17 Chinese, 17 Indonesian and five Filipino sailors missing.State media reported that so far, none of the missing 39 persons had been found as President Xi Jinping ordered a search and rescue operation.Search and rescue teams from Australia and several other countries had also arrived on the scene.) Biden scraps visits to focus on debt talksUnited States President Joe Biden has scrapped planned visits to Australia and Papua New Guinea to instead focus on talks on the nation's debt limit.After the G7 summit in Japan, Biden will join the final negotiations with congressional leaders to ensure that Congress takes action to avert a default.Biden’s decision came after the secretary of treasure warned of "catastrophic" consequences if the US ran out of cash to pay its bills, defaulting on debts as early as June 1st.) East Libya-based parliament replaces PMLibya's eastern-based parliament has voted to replace Fathi Bashagha as prime minister, assigning his finance minister Osama Hamad to take over his duties.The parliament spokesperson said the move came after Bashagha failed to take office in Tripoli where the incumbent Abdulhamid Dbeibah has refused to cede power.*) Germany jails five over art heistA German court has sentenced five gang members to up to six years in prison for snatching priceless 18th-century jewels from a Dresden museum in November 2019.The court handed down sentences ranging from just under to just over six years for armed robbery, aggravated arson and grievous bodily harm.In what has been dubbed the biggest art heist in modern history, the thieves stole 21 pieces decorated with 4,300 jewels from the Green Vault museum in under five minutes.They made off with a haul worth more than 123 million dollars. Some of the loot was recovered in exchange for four of the defendants confessing in court.
) Türkiye 2023 election goes to runoffTürkiye's 2023 presidential election has gone to a runoff after no candidate was able to clear the required 50 percent of the vote in the first round on May 14th.The country’s incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won 49.51 percent of the vote, while his main opponent Kemal Kilicdaroglu secured 44.88 percent.The run-off will be between Erdogan and Kilicdaroglu on May 28.) Fresh Russian air attacks on KievExplosions have rocked Ukraine’s Kiev as air defence systems repelled Russian air attacks on the capital and other places in the country.Ukraine downed an entire barrage of Russian drones and missiles, including six advanced Kinzhal missiles.The developments show Ukraine has bolstered its air defences after a winter of systemic strikes on key infrastructure.) Tunisia sentences Saied's opponentA Tunisian court has sentenced Rached Ghannouchi, one of the main opponents of President Kais Saied, to a year in prison following his arrest last month.Ennahdha party leader Ghannouchi had appeared in court on terror-related charges at the end of February after being accused of calling police officers "tyrants".Human Rights Watch had called his arrest a move "to neutralise the country's largest political party".) Teen kills multiple people in New MexicoAn 18-year-old gunman has shot three people to death and wounded six others in a US town before he was fatally shot by police outside a church.Local police said they responded "to find a chaotic scene where a male subject was actively firing upon individuals" in a residential area.Two officers, who were struck in an exchange of gunfire with the suspect, were among those wounded in the shooting in northwest New Mexico.Three civilians were killed.*) 31 Abrams tanks The US Defence Department announced that 31 M1 Abrams training tanks have been sent to Germany a few weeks ahead of a US-led training program for Ukrainian forces. Expected to last several months, the training program is aimed at preparing Ukrainian tech crews to operate and maintain the tanks, which will be used to defend Ukraine against Russia.
) Israeli strikes on Gaza enter fourth dayIsrael's air strikes on Gaza have entered the fourth day with at least 30 Palestinians killed.Officials in Gaza said several civilians, including children, women, and elderly were killed in the air strikes, while Islamic Jihad confirmed it has lost five military leaders.Meanwhile, Israeli police reported that rocket fire from the Gaza Strip killed one person in a central Israeli city and injured at least two others.Three others sustained shrapnel injuries elsewhere in Israel.) Pakistan orders release of Imran KhanPakistan's Supreme Court has declared the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan "invalid" after his detention sparked violent protests across the country.In response to a petition by Khan’s political party challenging the arrest, the Supreme Court said the process would be backtracked.Khan was arrested on Tuesday on corruption charges and remanded in custody in a culmination of months of political crisis.) US Republicans pass bill restricting asylumUnited States House Republicans have passed a bill to enhance the US-Mexico border wall and impose new restrictions on asylum seekers.Passed by a six vote difference, the legislation is a hard-line counter to President Joe Biden's policies and has virtually no chance of becoming law.Biden has already promised he would veto the bill, which includes aggressive measures decried by Democrats as “cruel” and “anti-immigrant".) Mpox no longer a global health emergencyThe World Health Organization has announced that mpox no longer constitutes a global health emergency, almost a year after the disease began spreading globally.WHO’s decision was prompted by falling case numbers worldwide, but the disease remains a threat, particularly in areas of Africa where it has long been present.The declaration came just a week after the UN agency also said that Covid-19 no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.*) Maiden's Tower reopens to visitorsIstanbul's iconic Maiden's Tower has reopened its doors to visitors with a special light and laser show after a two-year restoration.Perched on a small island approximately 200 metres from the Uskudar coast, the Maiden's Tower offers a unique 360-degree view of Istanbul.The landmark, with its rich history and numerous legends that add to its fame, will continue to serve as a memorial museum for visitors from near and far.
) Israel-Palestine fighting in Gaza intensifiesIsrael continues with its air attacks on Gaza, killing at least 23 Palestinians, including 10 civilians and the head of Islamic Jihad movement’s rocket-launching force. Palestinian armed groups have also launched volleys of rockets towards Israel.The United Nations condemned Israel, saying the country must abide by international humanitarian law, including the proportional use of force, and take all feasible precautions to spare civilians.) Black Sea grain deal meeting begins in IstanbulThe two-day talks for an extension of the Türkiye brokered Black Sea grain deal between Russia and Ukraine began in Istanbul on Wednesday, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said.Deputy defence ministers of the three countries met with UN officials to extend the deal from last July, which resumed grain exports from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports.So far, 30 million tons of grain have been transported to those in need under the deal, which is set to expire on May 18th.) Pakistan deploys army to quell violencePakistan's government has brought out the military in areas roiled by deadly violence following the arrest of former premier Imran Khan.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the unrest by Khan's supporters "damaged sensitive public and private property," forcing him to deploy the military in the capital Islamabad, the province of Punjab and in volatile regions of the northwest.At least eight people have been killed, nearly 300 wounded, and over 1,900 detained across the country according to local media.) Sudan's rival armies make progress in talksTalks between Sudan's army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Saudi Arabia have reportedly made progress, and a ceasefire agreement is expected soon.Envoys of the warring generals have been meeting in Jeddah since this weekend. During the fighting, which killed more than 750 people and wounded over 5,000, multiple ceasefires have been declared and flouted.Negotiations aim to secure an effective truce and allow access for aid workers and supplies.*) Microsoft signs deal with nuclear fusion companyNuclear fusion company Helion Energy has announced that it will provide Microsoft with electricity in about five years, in the first such deal for the power source.The nuclear fusion plant will target power generation of 50 megawatts or greater after a one-year ramp-up period.Government labs and more than 30 companies are racing to generate power from fusion, which could one day help the world slash emissions linked to climate change.
) Dozen killed in Israeli air strikes in GazaAt least twelve people have been killed and over 20 others injured in Israeli air strikes on besieged Gaza.According to Palestinian officials, three members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement were killed alongside at least nine civilians, including four children.The Israeli military said the aerial bombings were directed at the three senior commanders, who were accused for recent rocket fire toward Israel.The Palestinian group said Israel had scorned all initiatives of mediators and vowed to "avenge the leaders" killed in the latest air strikes.) Air strikes hit Sudan as talks yield no breakthroughAir strikes have again shaken Sudan's capital while the latest truce talks in Saudi Arabia yielded no major progress.A Saudi diplomat said a permanent ceasefire wasn’t on the table as both sides considered themselves capable of winning the battle.Sudan was thrown into deadly chaos when fighting broke out on April 15 between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.The battles have since killed hundreds, wounded thousands and uprooted hundreds of thousands, leading to fears of security fallout beyond Sudan's borders.) Russia marks Victory Day amid Ukraine conflictRussia has celebrated Victory Day, marking the anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, as the nearly 15-month war in Ukraine continued to rage.Russians commemorated the Great Patriotic War, in which around 27 million citizens perished, as they mourned thousands of soldiers killed in the Ukraine conflict.Celebrations took place amid tight security following a series of drone attacks, including one on the Kremlin, that Moscow says was Kiev’s attempt to assassinate President Vladimir Putin.) Iran hangs two men over blasphemy chargesIran has hanged two men convicted of blasphemy as executions surge across the country following months of unrest.Convicted of desecrating the Quran and insulting the Prophet Mohammed, the two men were arrested in May 2020 and faced months of solitary confinement.Iran remains one of the world's top executioners, but carrying out executions for blasphemy remains rare, as previous cases saw the sentences reduced by authorities.*) Thousands march against violence in SerbiaThousands have rallied in the Serbian capital following back-to-back shootings that killed 17 people in less than 48 hours, including nine children at an elementary school.The "Serbia against violence" demonstration in Belgrade saw more than ten thousand demonstrators from across the country's political divide come together.The protesters called for the resignation of a number of top officials and the curtailing of violence in the media.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, May 8th.) Russia launches large-scale strikes across UkraineRussia has launched a large-scale wave of strikes across Ukraine, injuring at least five people in Kiev and setting ablaze a foodstuff warehouse in the Black Sea city of Odessa.The fresh attacks come as Moscow prepares for its Victory Day, which marks the anniversary of its defeat of Nazi Germany.In his campaign against Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin has evoked the spirit of the Soviet defeat of Nazi forces, alleging that Kiev is in the grip of a new incarnation of Nazism.) Car-ramming incident kills seven in USIn United States’ Texas, at least seven pedestrians have been killed and several others injured when an SUV mowed down people near a homeless shelter for migrants.Some migrants were among the dead in the incident in Brownsville, a city on the border with Mexico, according to local police.It was not clear if the driver had crashed into the group intentionally or lost control of the vehicle. He was taken into custody and charged with reckless driving.) PKK supporters attack Turkish election observersSupporters of the PKK terrorist organisation have attacked election observers in the Netherlands as voting in Türkiye's presidential and parliamentary elections took place.Part of a bigger group, PKK supporters assaulted ballot box observers of the People's Alliance as polls were closing at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre.Police intervened against the attackers, who shouted slogans in favour of the PKK, and maintained security in the area until the votes were counted and sealed.) Israel demolishes EU-funded Palestinian schoolIsraeli army forces have demolished a European Union-funded Palestinian school in the occupied West Bank for lack of a building permit, according to a local official.The al Tahadi school, which housed over 60 students, was located in the Oslo Accords-described Area C of the occupied West Bank that is under Israeli army control.Israel widely uses the pretext of a lack of construction permits to demolish Palestinian homes, especially in Area C.The EU slammed Israel over the demolition, saying: Demolitions are illegal under international law, and children’s right to education must be respected.And finally…*) Pulitzer Prize day honours journalism's best workThe Pulitzer Prizes will be awarded today to honour outstanding journalism from 2022, as well as arts categories focused on books, music and theater.The winners will be announced during a livestream beginning at 1900GMT. The public service prize winner receives a gold medal.All other winners receive 15,000 dollars.The prizes were established in the will of newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer and first awarded in 1917.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) China will promote peace talks on Ukraine crisis — FM Qin GangChina's Foreign Minister Qin Gang said Beijing will persist in promoting peace talks for the Ukraine crisis.The country’s Foreign Ministry statement said China is "willing to maintain communication and coordination with Russia to make tangible contributions to the political settlement of the crisis."The statement referred to Qin's meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Foreign Ministers' meeting in Goa, India.) Ten killed, 15 injured in Serbia shooting: state mediaA gunman killed at least 10 people and injured 15 near the Serbian capital Belgrade, in the second mass shooting in the Balkan nation this week.Police arrested the suspected gunman responsible for the killing, state media reported, following an hours-long manhunt throughout the night. The back-to-back mass shootings have left the country in a state of shock, with thousands flocking to makeshift memorial sites while others have queued to donate blood. ) Israeli forces kill Palestinian woman near NablusThe Israeli army killed a Palestinian woman in a northern town of the occupied West Bank for allegedly carrying out a stabbing attack.The Palestinian Health Ministry identified the woman as Iman Odeh and said she was killed by "a bullet to the chest fired by the occupation soldiers in Huwara.Eyewitnesses said that an Israeli force shot the 26-year-old woman dead and prevented Palestinians from reaching her.) Western media's anti-Türkiye and Erdogan hostility is regrettable: AltunTurkish Communications Director Fahrettin Altun has slammed the cover of The Economist, a weekly British magazine, depicting hostility against Türkiye and its President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.Altun regretted the anti-Türkiye and Erdogan hostility of the Western media before the May 14 elections.He said, "As our country gets rid of the shackles, we observe that the violence of Western-centred attacks increases, ignoring the principle of impartiality,” *) Coffee fair kicks off in IstanbulThe fifth edition of the Istanbul Coffee Fair kicked off as coffee lovers and industry professionals flocked to the Halic Congress Center in the Turkish metropolis to taste a variety of coffees from different roasters.Fair Coordinator Reha Kadak said that they brought together important national and international brands of the industry at the fair.Kadak noted that nearly 20 thousand participants come to the fair every year.
) Zelenskyy denies attacking Moscow, PutinUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has denied claims of attacking Russia or trying to assassinate President Vladimir Putin.Zelenskyy said Ukraine was attacking neither Putin nor Moscow, but fighting on its own territory to defend its villages and cities.Zelenskyy claimed that Putin accuses him of the alleged attack and the assassination attempt because Moscow has "no victories" in Ukraine.) UN demands security guarantees for Sudan aidThe United Nations has called for security guarantees at "the highest level" to ensure desperately needed aid deliveries in conflict-torn Sudan.The UN's top humanitarian official Martin Griffiths insisted on the need for commitments that are “publicly, clearly given by militaries, to protect humanitarian systems to deliver".Griffiths arrived in Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast on an urgent mission to find ways to bring relief to the millions of Sudanese affected by the conflict.) New Turkish oil reserve to bring annual $2.9BTürkiye’s newest oil discovery in the country’s southeast has been estimated to increase the country’s overall hydrocarbon production from 100,000 barrels per day to 180,000.According to the petroleum and natural gas platform association, the estimated yearly financial contribution from the new discovery will be around 2.9 billion dollars. The recent discovery is one of many oil and gas explorations undertaken by the country since 2020.) Floods kill more than 100 in RwandaTorrential rains have caused flooding in western and northern Rwanda, killing at least 129 people.The death toll “continues to rise,” according to the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency.Strong rainstorms started last week, causing flooding and mudslides that swept away several houses across the country and left some roads inaccessible.*) Indigenous leaders demand King Charles apologiseIndigenous leaders from a string of former British colonies have urged King Charles to apologise for centuries of racism and the "legacy of genocide" perpetrated by the crown.In a letter that could sour the build-up to this weekend's coronation, Indigenous representatives from 12 Commonwealth nations also called for financial reparations.The letter, signed by leaders from Australia as well as several Caribbean nations that were once plundered for slaves, also demanded the return of stolen cultural treasures.
) Israel bombs Gaza after Khader Adnan's deathIsraeli warplanes have carried out airstrikes targeting areas in Palestine’s besieged Gaza, provoking retaliatory rocket attacks from Palestinian groups.Israel used fighter jets and drones to bomb multiple sites in northern Gaza, including sites of armed factions in Gaza City and central areas of the territory.Both sides agreed to a ceasefire after hours of fighting.The Israeli strikes came after rocket barrages were launched from Gaza following the death of Palestinian Khader Adnan in Israeli custody after an 87-day hunger strike.) Sudanese parties agree on seven-day ceasefireSudan's warring military factions have agreed in principle to a seven-day ceasefire from May 4th to 11th as more air strikes and shooting disrupted the latest short-term truce.The credibility of the South Sudan mediated ceasefire deal between Sudan’s army and paramilitary RSF was unclear given violations that undermined previous agreements.Now in its third week, Sudan's war has forced 100,000 people to flee over its borders, and is creating a humanitarian crisis according to UN officials.) Türkiye discovers oil reserve with 100k barrel per day capacityTürkiye has discovered a high-quality oil reserve in the country's eastern region with a production capacity of 100,000 barrels per day.President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the newly-found petroleum will be extracted with 100 wells and will meet one-tenth of Türkiye’s daily use.According to Erdogan, "Türkiye will no longer depend on others for energy but rather become an energy exporter.") Colombia govt, rebels commit to reaching truceColombia's government and National Liberation Army rebel group have affirmed their commitment to reaching a ceasefire agreement.The two sides also agreed on the need for civil society to be involved in any negotiated peace as they met in Havana for a third round of peace talks.The peace process was launched by Colombia's first-ever leftist President Gustavo Petro — himself a former urban fighter — at the end of last year.*) PSG suspends Messi after unauthorised tourParis Saint-Germain has suspended Lionel Messi for two weeks without pay for an unauthorised trip to Saudi Arabia, according to French media.The Argentine superstar would not be able to play or train, and will miss the Ligue 1 match against Troyes on May 7 and one against Ajaccio on May 13.Messi had traveled to Saudi Arabia to fulfill commitments as part of a contract with the country's tourist office, and missed a PSG training session as a result.
) Rocket fire from Gaza after Palestinian hunger striker diesRockets have been fired from the Gaza Strip toward Israeli territory after the death in custody of Palestinian Khader Adnan, who was affiliated with the Islamic Jihad group.Adnan, charged for terror offences by Tel Aviv, had been on hunger strike for 87 days following his detention by Israeli forces in February in the occupied West Bank.Adnan's lawyer accused Israel of medical negligence.Israel's military reported three rockets were launched from Gaza following Adnan’s death and Islamic Jihad warned Israel would pay a price for what they called a crime.) More than 800,000 may flee unrest in SudanA United Nations official has warned that over 800,000 people may flee Sudan due to fighting, which erupted on April 15 between the army and rival paramilitary group RSF.The official, Raouf Mazou, said consultations with concerned governments and partners arrived at a planning figure of 815,000 people that may flee into neighbouring countries. The estimate includes around 580,000 Sudanese, and many who had already come to Sudan as refugees.So far, he said some 73,000 people have already fled to Sudan's seven neighbours - South Sudan, Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Central African Republic and Libya.) Turkish expatriates in Europe, Middle East begin votingTurkish expatriates in Finland, Sweden, Qatar, and Lebanon have begun voting for the presidential and parliamentary elections that will be held across Türkiye on May 14.Polling in Finland will continue until May 7 for 6,791 Turks eligible to vote, while Sweden will welcome 42,800 Turkish voters until the same date.Separately, polling has begun in the Middle Eastern country of Qatar, where 10,868 Turk expatriates are eligible to vote until Sunday.A total of 8,336 Turk expatriates registered to vote in Lebanon also have seven days to cast their ballot.) Kuwait's Parliament dissolved againKuwait's Parliament has been dissolved by royal decree, just over a month after it was reinstated in March following a previous dissolution, state media reported.Kuwait's Crown Prince had said last month that the legislature would be dissolved, and that new parliamentary elections would be held in coming months.Sheikh Meshal, who was handed most of the duties of the ruling emir in late 2021, signed Monday's Emiri decree after it was submitted by the cabinet earlier in the day.*) Biden reaffirms US commitment to Philippines' securityPresident Joe Biden has reiterated the United States’ commitment to the Philippines' security, noting the "deep friendship" of the two nations.The remarks came as Biden welcomed Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for White House talks after the Southeast Asian nation completed its largest war drills ever.The Philippines became an important US ally as the hegemon looks to deter China’s increasingly aggressive actions toward Taiwan and in the disputed South China Sea.
) Türkiye neutralises Daesh leader in Syria: ErdoganTürkiye has neutralised the so-called leader of the Daesh terrorist organisation, Abu Hussein al Qurayshi, during an operation in Syria, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced.The National Intelligence Organization (MIT) had been following al Qurayshi for a long time, Erdogan said in a live interview on Turkish broadcaster TRT Turk.He added that Ankara would continue its fight against terrorist organisations without any discrimination.) UN sends relief chief to Sudan over 'unprecedented' scale of conflictThe United Nations’ top humanitarian official is heading to Sudan due to the "rapidly deteriorating humanitarian crisis" in the conflict-racked country.Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' announcement came shortly after rival Sudanese forces announced the extension of a truce they have largely violated.More than 500 people have been killed and tens of thousands have fled since fighting erupted on April 15 between the country’s army chief and commander of the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group.) Santiago Pena wins Paraguay's presidential electionParaguayans have elected a president from the rightwing Colorado Party, in power for nearly eight decades. Economist and former finance minister Santiago Pena won the election with more than 42 percent of votes cast, results showed, with 90 percent of ballots counted, according to the country's election body.Challenger Efrain Alegre of the Concertacion centre-left coalition garnered 27.5 percent despite having had a narrow lead in opinion polls ahead of the vote.) Ukrainian air defences 'shoot down' 15 Russian missilesUkrainian air defence crews have destroyed 15 missiles launched by Russian forces, according to the military, as air raid sirens blared across the country in the early morning for more than three hours.Kiev's city officials wrote on the Telegram messaging app that all missiles directed at the capital were destroyed.The city administration said there were no recorded casualties among the civilian population and no destruction of residential facilities or infrastructure.And finally…*) Grocery app Getir in talks to take over German rival Flink Turkish delivery app Getir is in talks to take over German rival Flink in a key step toward consolidation in Europe's food delivery market, the Financial Times has reported..There is no guarantee of an agreement being reached, however, said the paper, which cited people familiar with the matter.The talks come almost five months after Getir, the Istanbul-based online grocery start-up, closed its acquisition of Berlin-based rival Gorillas.
) Sudan military approves truce extension but fighting flaresSudan's army chief has given initial approval to a regional bloc’s proposal to extend the shaky truce between military forces and the paramilitary RSF.In addition to extending the previously agreed three-day ceasefire for 72 hours, both parties are expected to send an envoy to neighbouring South Sudan for talks.There was no immediate response from the paramilitary force to the proposal, while fighting continued on Khartoum's outskirts, undermining the existing truce.Over 500 people have died and thousands wounded since tensions between Sudan’s army and RSF erupted into an unprecedented power struggle on April 15.) Russia pounds positions in Bakhmut, MykolayivFighting has gripped eastern Ukraine’s Bakhmut and nearby areas as Russian forces failed to advance on two villages to the northwest, according to Ukrainian authorities.Meanwhile, the head of Russia's Wagner mercenary force said Ukrainian troops were pouring in ahead of an inevitable counter-offensive.In the southern Ukrainian city of Mykolayiv, a Russian missile killed one person and wounded over a dozen others as a high-rise building and a house were hit.) Kenya finds more bodies as starvation cult toll nears 100The number of victims linked to a suspected starvation cult in Kenya has climbed to 98 after investigators unearthed dozens of bodies buried in Shakahola forest last week.Cult leader Paul Mackenzie Nthenge is accused of driving his followers to death by preaching that the world would end on April 15, and starvation was the only path to God.According to rights group Haki Africa, which tipped off the police about Nthenge's activities, 50 to 60 percent of the victims were children.) Brazil Congress launches inquiry into rampageBrazil's Congress has opened an inquiry into the January 8 congress attack by violent demonstrators who denied the electoral victory of recently inaugurated President Lula.The parties began selecting committee members, with opposition parties and government allies battling for influence.Lula's Workers Party had tried to avoid the congressional inquiry, hoping to leave investigations to law enforcement and keep lawmakers' focus on his legislative agenda.The right-wing opposition has pushed for an inquiry as a way to blame his new government for security failures in the Brazilian capital that day.*) Palestine demands apology from EU Commission chiefPalestine has slammed EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen for her anti-Palestinian trope to mark the 75th anniversary of the creation of Israel.Her comment that Israel "made the desert bloom" particularly drew criticism as it suggests Palestine was an empty desert before the creation of the Jewish state.Demanding an apology, the Palestinian foreign ministry said: "Such propagandist discourse dehumanizes and erases the Palestinian people,” and casts doubt on the EU's declared commitment to international law and human rights.
) Ceasefire shaky as Sudanese, foreigners fleeA US-brokered ceasefire between Sudan's generals has entered its second day but remains fragile as witnesses reported fresh air strikes.Amid the fighting, a boat with 1,687 civilians from more than 50 countries fleeing the violence has arrived in Saudi Arabia - the largest rescue effort by the Gulf kingdom to date.Fighting broke out in Sudan on April 15 between forces loyal to army chief and de facto ruler of Sudan Abdel Fattah al Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo - commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.) US, Filipino forces show power in drills amid China tensionsUS and Philippine troops have conducted the final exercise of their largest-ever joint military drills in the disputed South China Sea, which China claims almost entirely.The drills aim to boost Manila's military capability while serving as a US show of support for its Asian ally as China's assertiveness in the region grows stronger.The joint military exercises fall in sync with the Biden administration’s aim of reinforcing an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region.) Afghan Taliban kills Daesh 'mastermind' of Kabul airport attackThe Taliban government has killed the alleged mastermind of a suicide bomb attack that left at least 183 people dead at Kabul airport during the withdrawal of US forces in 2021.That’s according to US officials. White House spokesperson John Kirby said the attacker was a key Daesh affiliate directly involved in plotting operations.The leader of the Daesh cell was killed by Taliban authorities in recent weeks, a senior US administration official told Politico on condition of anonymity.) FBI working with US companies to collect war crime evidence in UkraineUkraine is working with the US Federal Bureau of Investigation and American companies to collect evidence of war crimes by Russians, senior officials have said.Ukrainian authorities are collecting digital information from battlefields and Ukrainian towns ravaged by the war since Russia began its offensive last February, according to FBI special agent Alex Kobzanets.The work reflects deepening collaboration between the US and Ukraine on the cyber front, where Russia has been a common adversary for both nations.*) One in five cars sold this year will be electric - IEAElectric cars are expected to make up nearly one-fifth of the global market this year, according to the International Energy Agency's (IEA) outlook report for the electric vehicle market.Sales are expected to grow by 35 percent this year to reach 14 million, the report said, comprising 18 percent of the market - up from just 4 percent in 2020.The shift from combustion engine to electric cars will reduce global demand for oil by at least five million barrels a day, according to the IEA's projections.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, April 25th.) UN chief proposes 'way forward' for Ukraine grain initiativeUnited Nations chief Antonio Guterres has presented a "way forward" on extending Black Sea grain deal during a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in New York.Guterres gave Lavrov "a letter to President Vladimir Putin, outlining a proposed way forward aimed at the improvement, extension and expansion" of the deal, a spokesperson for the Secretary General said.An agreement has been in place since last July that allows Ukrainian grain to be exported via the Black Sea after they were blocked amid the conflict with Russia.) Poll: Gun violence, homelessness worry young AmericansConcerns over the US's gun violence epidemic and the prospect of losing their homes have increasingly weighed on young Americans, according to a poll.Highlighting the instability experienced among 18-29 year-olds, about half of all young Americans - 48 percent - said they have felt unsafe in the past month, according to the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School survey. About 40 percent reported being worried they could fall victim to gun violence amid repeated grisly mass shootings in the US.Nearly three-quarters - 73 percent - said they agree homelessness can happen to anyone. ) Thousands flee Sudan conflict, arrive in neighbouring South SudanOver 10,000 people fleeing the conflict in Sudan have arrived in neighbouring South Sudan since fighting broke out in mid-April between the army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The returnees and refugees have reportedly arrived in the border town of Renk in Upper Nile state and Aweil North County in Northern Bahr El Ghazal state, officials have said.) Deadly explosions rock counter-terrorism office in northwestern PakistanTwo explosions have rocked a counter-terrorism office in northwest Pakistan, killing at least 12 people and injured over 50, police said.According to the provincial police chief there was an old ammunition store in the office, and police are probing whether that caused the explosions or if it was a militant attack. And finally…*) Anzac Day: Hundreds gather in Türkiye's Gallipoli to remember WWI deadHundreds of visitors from Australia and New Zealand have gathered at the site of the Gallipoli campaign in western Türkiye for a dawn service.Tuesday's event marked the 108th anniversary of the first landing of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) troops on the Gallipoli peninsula during a military campaign in World War I.And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
) Countries evacuate citizens amidst raging battle in SudanForeign countries have rushed to evacuate their nationals from Sudan as deadly fighting raged into a second week between forces loyal to two rival generals.Evacuation flights were continuing early Monday, with hundreds of people flown out overnight on military aircraft.Foreigners also fled the capital Khartoum in a long United Nations convoy, while millions of frightened residents hunkered down inside their homes, many running low on water and food.) Serbian president signals possible referendum for deal with KosovoSerbia’s president signaled a possible referendum for the Ohrid Agreement for the normalisation of relations between Serbia and Kosovo.Aleksandar Vucic's remarks came on Sunday after several opposition parties requested that a referendum be held to ask citizens whether the European Union-facilitated agreement should be used as a facilitator of the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue.Vucic said that if the opposition is asking for his legitimacy to be tested in a referendum, he is ready for it.) Tens of people killed by militants in Burkina FasoSixty people were killed in Burkina Faso by men wearing military uniforms, a prosecutor said, announcing an investigation into the latest attack in the insurgency-hit country.According to residents, survivors said more than 100 people on motorbikes and pick-up trucks raided Karma.The west African country is battling a militant insurgency that spilled over from neighbouring Mali in 2015.) Australia unveils major millitary reform in bid to counter China threatAustralia has unveiled its biggest military shakeup in decades, refocusing the armed forces on deterring would-be foes far from its shores.Sketching a future in which Australia would have substantially longer-range strike capability, Defence Minister Richard Marles on Monday said the decades-old territory-focused strategy was "no longer fit for purpose".Facing a more combative China, he said Australia will shift its focus to deterring enemies before they reach its shores - at sea, in the air and online.And finally…*) Türkiye's largest warship TCG Anadolu sets off from Istanbul for Black SeaTürkiye’s largest warship TCG Anadolu has rendered a 21-gun salute in honour of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as it sailed through the Istanbul Strait on its way to the Black Sea.The vessel, which is the world’s first unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) carrier, departed the port of Sarayburnu in Istanbul and sailed past the Dolmabahce Palace on Sunday, 23 April.Built in Istanbul-based shipyard Sedef, the TCG Anadolu ship can carry helicopters, drones, land vehicles, light warcraft, and personnel.
) Scores killed, injured in stampede during charity distribution in YemenMore than 80 people have been killed and hundreds injured in Yemen after a charity distribution event sparked one of the deadliest stampedes in a decade.That’s according to Houthi officials.The tragedy late on Wednesday came days ahead of the Muslim holiday of Eid al Fitr which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.People had gathered at a school in Houthi-controlled Sanaa to receive about $10 each from a charity funded by local businessmen, witnesses said.) New Sudan truce bid fails with vital supplies running shortA new attempt at a ceasefire between Sudanese troops and paramilitary forces in Khartoum has failed, leaving people fearful about dwindling food supplies and a breakdown in medical services. The new 24-hour ceasefire was supposed to come into effect at 1600 GMT on Wednesday. However, eyewitnesses in the capital said fighting had continued.Nearly 300 people have been killed and 2,600 injured, Sudan's Health Ministry estimates.) Türkiye’s biggest offshore gas field in Sakarya ready for operationTürkiye has completed work on its Sakarya gas field in less than three years, with natural gas set to start flowing from the offshore wells in the Black Sea later this week. Critics had raised doubts over the seriousness of the timeline announced by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in August, 2020, when he declared that the project would be completed in 2023.Based on the latest price, gas produced from Sakarya translates into an economic gain of $5 million per day for the country, according to Mehmet Dogan, Managing Director of the Istanbul-based GazDay Energy consultancy.) Brazil security chief resigns after leaked video of Brasilia rampageOne of Brazil's top national security officials has resigned after the disclosure of videos of him at the scene of the January 8 attacks on the capital Brasilia.General Marco Edson Goncalves Dias submitted his resignation on Wednesday after CNN Brasil broadcast images from security cameras showing him at the Planalto Palace, directing protesters as they ransacked federal buildings.The protesters were seeking to restore defeated former president Jair Bolsonaro to power, just days after he left office.*) Mudik: Millions of Indonesians travel in annual Eid al Fitr exodusIndonesia's transport ministry said that up to 123 million people will travel for the end of Ramadan holidays this year in the world’s most populous Muslim country. That’s up from 85 million estimated to have made the trip last year.On motorcycles, cars, buses, planes or by boat, millions of Indonesians are travelling to their hometowns in the annual Eid al Fitr holiday exodus that is expected to peak by Thursday.Major seaports and toll roads are packed, while airports and bus terminals are also full of travellers looking forward to reuniting with their families.
) Gunfire punctures ‘armistice’ as death toll from Sudan fighting climbsExplosions have shaken Sudan’s capital despite claims of a ceasefire on the fourth day of fighting that has killed nearly 270 people and wounded 2,600 others.After international mediation, Rapid Support Forces commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo promised to support a 24-hour “armistice” on Tuesday, which the army denied any knowledge of before later blaming the RSF for breaking it.By 1600 GMT, the time of the supposed start to the ceasefire, gunfire could still be heard throughout the capital Khartoum, according to several witnesses, and it continued into the evening.) South Korea opens door for possible military aid to UkraineSouth Korea might extend its support for Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if it comes under a large-scale civilian attack, President Yoon Suk-yeol has said. The South Korean president’s statement has signalled a shift in his stance against arming Ukraine for the first time.In an interview with the Reuters ahead of his state visit to the US next week, Yoon said his government has been exploring how to help defend and rebuild Ukraine, just as South Korea received international assistance during the 1950-53 Korean War.) Mexico’s Obrador accuses US of ‘spying’ on his govtMexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has accused the Pentagon of spying on his government following leaks in US media. Obrador said he would begin classifying information from the armed forces to protect national security.His comments came several days after the Washington Post reported on apparent tensions between Mexico’s Navy and the Army, citing a US military briefing that was revealed in online leaks of secret US military records.) Hamas-Saudi relations in focus as Haniyeh visits kingdom for the first timeHamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh has arrived in Saudi Arabia for his first visit to the kingdom in years.Haniyeh, who touched down in the kingdom late on Monday, is accompanied by a high-profile delegation that includes former political chief Khaled Meshal, a Hamas source told Anadolu Agency.The Hamas delegation will hold talks with Saudi officials to discuss the latest Palestinian developments and Hamas-Saudi relations, the source said.*) Rebuilding Türkiye after deadly quakes top priority: ErdoganTürkiye’s president has hailed his government’s achievements with regards to post-quake rebuilding efforts, energy sector and foreign policy, while listing future goals as the country prepares for May 14 presidential and parliamentary elections.In a wide-ranging interview with TRT, Recep Tayyip Erdogan touched upon the rebuilding efforts following the deadly February 6 earthquakes and said rebuilding areas affected by the quakes is his foremost priority.The Turkish president said the government has mobilised its largest contingent in the reconstruction phase and will ensure that the needs of everyone affected will be addressed.
) UN says nearly 200 dead, 1,800 wounded in Sudan as rival forces battleFighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around two-hundred people and wounded one-thousand-eight-hundred, damaging hospitals and hampering aid after three days of urban warfare.A weeks-long power struggle exploded into deadly violence on Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup.Battles have taken place throughout the vast country, and there are fears of regional spillover.) Ennahda's leader Ghannouchi arrested for interrogation in TunisiaTunisia’s security forces have arrested the country’s largest political party Ennahda’s leader Rached Ghannouchi, taking him in for interrogation at a National Guard building in the capital Tunis.Tunisian authorities have yet to comment on the arrest.On February 21, Ghannouchi appeared before the Judicial Pole of Counter-Terrorism in Tunis to answer accusations of incitement against security forces, but he was set free after giving testimony.) Iran invites Saudi King Salman to visit Tehran amid thaw in tiesIran formally invites Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to visit Tehran, following a reconciliation agreement reached last month between the two sides.Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said President Ebrahim Raisi had “invited the Saudi King to visit Iran” adding that the Iranian president had already received an invitation to visit the kingdom.The spokesman also expressed hope that Iran and Saudi Arabia would reopen their respective diplomatic missions by May 9th, as scheduled in the China-brokered agreement.) As a trade bridge, Istanbul can link financial markets: Turkish presidentWith a new landmark financial centre in Istanbul, Türkiye’s president has said that the metropolis could help to form ties between financial markets in the world.Speaking at the opening ceremony of the first phase of the Istanbul Finance Center, Erdogan said the centre of global finance was clearly shifting from West to East.Increasing commercial competition between Asia and Europe and the geopolitical position of Türkiye creates new opportunities for Istanbul, the president noted.*) End of an era: ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ bows out after 35 yearsThe final curtain came down on New York’s production of “The Phantom of the Opera,” ending Broadway’s longest-running show with thunderous standing ovations, and gold and silver confetti bursting from its famous chandelier.The musical — a fixture on Broadway since opening on January 26, 1988 — has weathered recessions, war, terrorism and cultural shifts. But critics say the prolonged pandemic may have been the last straw, since it is a costly musical to sustain, with elaborate sets and costumes as well as a large cast and orchestra.
) US naval destroyer sails through Taiwan StraitThe US Navy said its guided-missile destroyer the USS Milius had sailed through the Taiwan Strait in a "freedom of navigation" operation carried out days after China staged massive war games around the island.China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to bring the self-ruled island under its control one day.Beijing launched three days of military exercises around Taiwan on April 8 in which it simulated targeted strikes and practised a blockade of the island.) UN chief demands justice for staff deaths as fighting rages in SudanUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned clashes in Sudan that have left dozens of civilians dead including three workers for the global body's food agency, demanding swift justice over the killings.Guterres "strongly condemns the deaths and injuries of civilians, including the death of three staff members of the World Food Programme in North Darfur, with a further two seriously injured," the UN chief's spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.The top UN official also reiterated his call for an immediate halt to the fighting and "a return to dialogue," stressing he remains engaged with regional leaders and with Sudanese stakeholders "to find a way out of this crisis," he added.) Tens of security forces members killed in Burkina FasoAt least 40 people were killed and 33 others were wounded in an attack by gunmen on an army detachment in northern Burkina Faso, local authorities said.The attack by unidentified armed men targeted a detachment of soldiers and the civilian volunteers on Saturday.Burkina Faso remains plagued by insecurity, largely due to an insurgency that has spilled over from neighbouring Mali.) Saudi Arabia to host Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh visits Saudi Arabia for the first such visit in years, according to a Palestinian source.There was no official confirmation yet from Riyadh.The delegation will hold talks with Saudi officials on a number of Palestinian and regional issues as well as bilateral relations between Hamas and Saudi Arabia, the source said.*) Turkish athlete Cansu Bektas breaks 3 European junior weightlifting recordsTurkish weightlifter Cansu Bektas has won three European junior record-breaking gold medals at the 2023 European Weightlifting Championships. Bektas, who competed in women's 45 kg, broke three European junior records with 72 kg in the snatch, 90 kg in the clean and jerk, and 162 kg in total. European Weightlifting Championships, which has been held since 1896, is an annual event organised by the European Weightlifting Federation.
) US air force employee in custody over classified Pentagon documents leakThe FBI has arrested an employee of the US Air Force National Guard over leaks of classified documents.US Attorney General Merrick Garland said the FBI arrested 21-year-old Jack Teixeira in connection with the online leaks, which the Pentagon called a "deliberate, criminal act”.Some of the most sensitive leaked details are related to Ukraine's military capabilities and shortcomings, as well as information about US allies including Israel and South Korea.) Ukraine reports unrelenting Russian attacks on besieged BakhmutRussia's military has pressed on with its unrelenting attacks on the war-ravaged eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut while continuing to shell the southern city of Kherson. Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said heavy fighting gripped all parts of the eastern front. She said pro-Kiev forces repelled attacks in most areas.President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other senior officials are pressing allies for more weapons that Kiev hopes will enable it to launch a major counter-offensive later this year.) Brazilian President Lula slams US dollar in China tourBrazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has criticised the outsized role of the US dollar in the world economy during an official visit to China.Lula questioned who decided that the dollar would be the world’s currency and why countries should be tied to it for trade.He made the remarks in Shanghai during the inauguration of his political ally, Dilma Rousseff, who has been named president of the new development bank set up by BRICS nations to counter the IMF and the World Bank.Lula also had strong words for the IMF, alluding to accusations that the organisation forces harsh spending cuts on cash-strapped countries in exchange for bailout loans.) North Korea tests new solid-fuel ICBM Hwasong-18North Korea said it successfully tested for the first time a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile known as Hwasong-18, hailing it as a key breakthrough for the country's nuclear counterattack capabilities.All of Pyongyang's previously known intercontinental ballistic missiles have been liquid-fuelled. Such solid-fıuel missiles are easier to store and transport, more stable and quicker to prepare for launch and thus harder to detect and destroy preemptively.South Korea's military had earlier said that a launch conducted by the North was likely a new type of ballistic missile. The launch briefly triggered a seek shelter order in parts of Japan. *) Trump testifies for seven hours in New York fraud lawsuitDonald Trump has testified under oath for around seven hours in a New York civil case that accuses him and three of his children of business fraud.The behind-closed-doors deposition on Thursday came a week after the former US president’s historic arraignment on criminal charges in a Manhattan courtroom in a separate case.The 76-year-old Republican is facing a slew of state, federal and congressional probes that threaten his bid to regain the presidency in next year's election.
) Saudi Arabia, Syria discuss ways to end Damascus' diplomatic isolationSaudi Arabia and the Syrian regime’s foreign ministers have held talks "to end Damascus' diplomatic isolation", the Saudi Foreign Ministry reported.At a meeting in Saudi Arabia, both sides said they discussed "the necessary steps" to end Damascus's diplomatic isolation in the Arab world since the civil war began in 2011.On Friday, representatives of nine Arab countries will meet in Jeddah to discuss letting the Syrian regime attend an Arab League summit next month.Meanwhile, an Iranian technical delegation arrived in Riyadh for the reopening of Tehran's embassy in the Saudi capital.) Qatar, Bahrain agree to resume diplomatic ties in Riyadh talksAt another meeting in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain have decided to resume their diplomatic ties after talks between their officials in Riyadh.The two sides confirmed that this decision stems from “the mutual desire to develop bilateral relations” and enhance the Gulf Cooperation Council’s unity.The move comes over two years after an Arab boycott of Doha was lifted.Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt in January 2021 ended a 3-1/2-year embargo of Qatar, however, all but Bahrain had restored travel and trade links with its neighbouring kingdom.) Zelenskyy seeks Russia's frozen assets to rebuild UkraineUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the efforts of forces defending Bakhmut and other areas in the east as the war enters its 414th day.Addressing a meeting of international financial institutions, Zelenskyy called for faster assistance to help rebuild the country and restore normal life after the war ends.One of his appeals was to use Russia's frozen assets to compensate Ukraine for the damage Moscow inflicted on it. ) Seoul says North Korea's ballistic missile launch 'possibly solid fuel'North Korea appears to have fired a new type of ballistic missile, "possibly solid fuel", South Korea's military has said.South Korea's military said it had "detected one ballistic missile with a medium range or longer fired from the Pyongyang area on Thursday.The launch is the latest in a string of banned weapons tests conducted by Pyongyang, which has fired several of its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missiles this year.*) New York police re-introduce robotic canine for 'risky' tasksNew York City officials have unveiled new high-tech policing devices, including a robotic dog, a GPS tracker for stolen cars and a cone-shaped security robot.Digidog, the city's first robot police dog, was leased in 2020 but the city's contract for the device was cut short after critics derided it as creepy and dystopian.But starting this summer, the remote-controlled Digidog will be deployed in risky situations like hostage standoffs.
) Myanmar confirms deadly air strike that is feared to have killed 100Myanmar's ruling junta has confirmed that it carried out an air strike on a village in which some 100 people were reported to have been killed.UN rights chief Volker Turk said he was "horrified" by the strike that hit the remote Kanbalu township in the central Sagaing region. Initial reports put the death toll at around 50, but later tallies reported by independent media raised it to about 100. Turk said it included schoolchildren.The junta claimed that some of the dead were anti-coup fighters. ) US seeks to reassure allies after Ukraine-related documents leakTop US diplomat Antony Blinken and defence chief Lloyd Austin have spoken with their Ukrainian counterparts to reassure them after secret documents leaked online.The breach includes classified information about Ukraine's battle against Russian forces, as well as secret assessments of US allies.One document reviewed by the AFP news agency highlighted US concerns about Ukraine's capacity to keep defending against Russian strikes.Meanwhile, the Washington Post reported that another document expressed doubts about the success of an upcoming offensive by Kiev's forces. ) Pakistan slams India's decision to hold G20 meet in disputed KashmirPakistan has condemned India's decision to hold Group of 20 meetings in the disputed Himalayan territory of Kashmir next month.Its Foreign Ministry accused India of acting in "disregard of the UN Security Council resolutions and in violation of the principles of the UN Charter and international law."India's Foreign Ministry did not immediately comment on the statement from Pakistan.) Türkiye's Erdogan unveils AK Party's election manifestoTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced his governing Justice and Development Party’s manifesto ahead of the May 14 elections.Speaking in the capital Ankara, Erdogan unveiled a 23-point election manifesto, which firstly focuses on support for earthquake victims in southern Türkiye.He said 81 provinces will be transformed into disaster-resilient cities using what he called a "national risk shield model."*) NASA unveils 'Mars' habitat for year-long experiments on EarthFour small rooms, a gym and a lot of red sand – NASA has unveiled its new Mars-simulation habitat at the space agency's research base in Texas.During three planned experiments, volunteers will live in the habitat for a year at a time to test what life will be like on future missions to Mars.Four volunteers will begin the first trial this summer, during which NASA plans to monitor their physical and mental health to better understand astronauts' "resource use" on Mars.
) North Korea leader calls for expansion of war deterrence capabilitiesNorth Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for expanding the country's war deterrence capabilities to counter what it called "frantic" aggression by the United States and South Korea.Kim's call on Tuesday comes as Pyongyang has opened the year with a flurry of weapons tests.These tests included nuclear-capable underwater drones and the launch of two intercontinental ballistic missiles.North Korea last year declared itself an "irreversible" nuclear power, effectively ending the possibility of denuclearisation talks.) Turkish, Russian, Syrian, Iranian FMs likely to meet in May in MoscowA meeting between foreign ministers of Türkiye, Russia, Iran, and Syria is likely to be held in early May in Moscow.Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said this in an interview on Monday.He said the aim of these talks is to revive the political process, lasting stability and peace, fight against terrorism, and guarantee Syria's border and territorial integrity. ) Five killed, at least 6 injured in Kentucky shooting attackFive people were killed and at least six others hospitalised following a shooting targeting a bank on Monday in downtown Louisville, in the US state of Kentucky. A short while after confirming the attack, police said the shooter was dead, without giving further details. It was unclear whether the death toll of five people included the shooter.The incident triggered a massive police deployment outside the Old National Bank building.) China completes Taiwan war games aimed at 'sealing off' islandChina says it has "successfully completed" three days of war games around Taiwan.The three-day show of force saw it simulate targeted strikes and practise a blockade of the self-ruled island.Chinese ally Russia defended the drills, with a Kremlin spokesperson saying Beijing had a "sovereign right" to respond to what Moscow called "provocative acts".Beijing's exercises were a response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy last week.*) News anchor generated with AI appears in KuwaitA Kuwaiti media outlet has unveiled a virtual news presenter generated using artificial intelligence with plans for it to read online bulletins."Fedha" appeared on the Twitter account of the Kuwait News website on Saturday as an image of a woman, her light-coloured hair uncovered, wearing a black jacket and white T-shirt.The site is affiliated with the Kuwait Times, founded in 1961 as the Gulf region's first English-language daily.
) Russian forces step up strikes on two key Ukrainian citiesRussia's forces have kept up a barrage of attacks along the front concentrated in two Ukrainian cities in the eastern Donetsk region.Fighting was heaviest along the western approaches to Bakhmut, the general staff of Ukraine's armed forces said.Battle also raged in Avdiivka, that Russia's military has been targeting.Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy denounced Russian air strikes, saying Moscow was further isolating itself from the world.) China holds live-fire exercises near TaiwanChina has held live-fire drills to round off three days of military exercises in response to Taiwan's president's meeting with the US House speaker.Dubbed "Joint Sword", the three-day operation has included rehearsing an encirclement of Taiwan, according to the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command.Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen denounced the drills, which come after she met last week with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy outside Los Angeles. ) Saudi delegation in Yemen's capital for talks with HouthisA Saudi delegation is in Yemen's capital to negotiate a potential new truce with the Iran-backed Houthi rebels who control the city.Houthi media showed the group's political leader, Mahdi al Mashat, shaking hands and meeting with Saudi officials including the kingdom's ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al Jaber.The Saudi officials are "in Sanaa to discuss moving forward to create peace in Yemen," said a Yemeni diplomat based in the Gulf region, information that was confirmed by a second diplomat.) Hezbollah, Hamas leaders meet in Lebanon amid Al Aqsa raidsHezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah has held talks with Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Beirut, Lebanon amid escalating Israeli military violence in occupied East Jerusalem.Nasrallah and Haniyeh discussed the latest Palestinian developments, “events at Al Aqsa Mosque, and the escalating resistance in the occupied West Bank and Gaza,” according to a Hezbollah statement.Violence rose across the territories after Israeli forces last week forcibly removed worshippers from inside the Al Aqsa Mosque compound.*) "Super Mario" movie hops to a huge North American openingUniversal's "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" has racked up huge numbers in its North American opening weekend. The analysts say it could top the list for all of 2023.The animated film sold an estimated 146.4 million dollars in tickets over the Easter weekend, and 204.6 million in its first five days across North America.In second place for the weekend was Lionsgate's neo-noir "John Wick: Chapter 4," at 14.6 million dollars.
) Israeli warplanes strike besieged Gaza, Lebanon following Al Aqsa raidsThe Israeli military has struck besieged Gaza and southern Lebanon.This followed a day of rocket fire from the Palestinian territory and from Lebanon in reaction to Israel's back-to-back raids into the Al Aqsa Mosque that injured Palestinian worshippers.Hamas, which governs the tiny coastal strip of Gaza, said several air strikes had been carried out in the blockaded enclave early on Friday. There were no immediate reports of casualties from the strikes.Later, at least three explosions were heard in Lebanon's Tyre region, as Israel's military said it was carrying out strikes there.) Iran, Saudi Arabia foreign ministers hold landmark meeting in BeijingIran and Saudi Arabia's top diplomats have met in Beijing, the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years.After years of hostility, the two countries agreed to end their diplomatic rift and re-open embassies in a major deal facilitated by China last month. In a joint statement following the recent meeting, the ministers said that their agreement to normalise ties would help bring "security and stability" to the Middle East.) China's Xi, France's Macron call for Russia-Ukraine peace talksChinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron have called for Russia-Ukraine peace talks to take place "as soon as possible".The pair, who held talks in Beijing, also reaffirmed their opposition to the use of nuclear weapons during the conflict.Macron began a series of meetings with Chinese leaders on a visit with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen that could set a course for the bloc's future relations with China.Meanwhile, Ukrainian and Russian forces continue to battle in Bakhmut, the devastated eastern city which has become a symbol of Kiev's defiance.) China sends warships and aircraft around Taiwan for second dayChina has sent warships and aircraft near Taiwan for a second day, Taipei said. This comes after President Tsai Ing-wen’s meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which angered Beijing Three Chinese warships sailed in waters surrounding the self-ruled island, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence said. In addition, a fighter jet and an anti-submarine helicopter also crossed the island's air defence identification zone*) 'Horrified': Australia mayor mulls first defamation case against ChatGPTAn Australian mayor may become the first person to sue the creators of ChatGPT over claims the AI-powered chatbot falsely labelled him a criminal.Before taking office, Brian Hood had helped expose bribery and other crimes at his former employer, Note Printing Australia. But when ChatGPT was asked about the scandal and Hood's role, it falsely claimed he had been jailed for corruption.People have been using ChatGPT’s artificial intelligence to streamline everything from answering mundane emails to cheating on school exams.
) Israel troops storm Al Aqsa Mosque for second night targeting PalestiniansIsraeli troops have stormed Al Aqsa Mosque compound for the second time and attacked Palestinian worshippers inside Islam's third-holiest site.Witnesses said the Israeli forces raided the Al Qibli Prayer Hall after the tarawih prayers, a special prayer during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, beating up Palestinian worshippers. They also fired stun grenades and rubber bullets to force them out of the complex. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society in occupied East Jerusalem said its medical teams treated six Palestinians, two of whom were hospitalised.Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli troops arrested hundreds of people in a police incursion at the mosque. This sparked an exchange of rockets and air strikes, with fears of further escalation.)China deploys warships near Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meeting in USChina has sent warships through waters around Taiwan as it vowed a "resolute response" to the island's president meeting US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.Three additional warships were detected in waters separating the self-governing island from mainland China on Thursday, while an anti-submarine helicopter had also crossed its air defence identification zone.On Wednesday, the Chinese carrier, the Shandong, was also spotted around 200 nautical miles (370km) off Taiwan's east coast. Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen had held talks with McCarthy in California on Wednesday. China had repeatedly warned both sides that the meeting should not take place.)Macron, von der Leyen to press China's Xi on UkraineFrench and EU leaders will seek to make Europe's case for bringing an end to the conflict in Ukraine in a Beijing meeting with Xi Jinping, a close ally of Vladimir Putin.French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen will have a trilateral meeting with the Chinese president. This will follow a one-on-one meeting between Macron and Xi.Macron, who arrived in Beijing on Wednesday afternoon for a three-day state visit, said he wants to "be a voice that unites Europe" over Ukraine.) Zelenskyy gets new pledges of military support from PolandMeanwhile in Ukraine, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said his troops are facing a difficult situation in the battle for Bakhmut as the war rages on.He refuted claims by Russian forces that the city had been captured, but said the military would take "corresponding" decisions to protect them if they risked being encircled by Russian forces.On Wednesday, Zelenskyy won new pledges of military and economic cooperation during a state visit to Poland.Polish President Andrzej Duda said Warsaw has provided four fighter jets to Ukraine, with another ten expected soon.*) Canada agrees to $17B settlement over mistreatment of Indigenous familiesCanada has agreed to pay $17 billion to Indigenous children and families for discrimination in the child welfare system.The revised deal, announced on Wednesday by the Canadian government and Indigenous groups, boosted the settlement from the nearly $15 billion agreed last year.Some 300,000 children, adolescents and families are expected to receive the settlement. The deal also closed a case brought before a human rights tribunal more than 15 years ago that found the government had underfunded Indigenous children's services.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, April 5th.) Israel strikes Gaza after troops storm Al Aqsa Mosque, attack worshipersIsraeli planes have struck Gaza in response to rocket fire from the Palestinian enclave after Israeli police raided the Al Aqsa Mosque compound overnight.Hamas Radio reported that the Israeli strikes hit several targets within Gaza city and in a refugee camp. There were no immediate reports on casualties.The air strikes come after Israeli troops stormed Islam's third holiest site in occupied East Jerusalem while Palestinians pray on the second week of Ramadan.Witnesses and Palestinian Red Crescent also reported that Israeli troops have beaten up worshipers, leaving many wounded, raising fears of wider tensions. ) France, US want to engage China to end Russia-Ukraine conflictFrench President Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden have agreed in a phone call to engage China to hasten the end of the war in Ukraine.The Elysee said the leaders both hoped China could contribute to solidarity efforts ahead of a visit by Macron to Beijing from Wednesday to Friday. The latest push to end the war comes as Ukraine’s armed forces repelled 45 Russian attacks during the past 24 hours while fighting raged in and around the city of Bakhmut.) Taiwan leader set to meet US House Speaker despite China warningTaiwan has pushed back against threats of retaliation by China, ahead of an expected meeting between the self-ruled island's president and the US House speaker.The meeting on Wednesday comes during a stopover for President Tsai Ing-wen, after her two-country trip in Latin America.China warned US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who is second in line to the US presidency, that he was "playing with fire" by meeting Tsai.) Donald Trump slams criminal charges as 'insult to our country'Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts in a hearing in New York that began the countdown to the first ever criminal trial of an American president.Manhattan prosecutors say Trump "repeatedly and fraudulently falsified… business records to conceal criminal conduct” ahead of the 2016 presidential election.Trump blasted the criminal prosecution as "an insult to our country” and said "radical left" prosecutors across the country were out to get him "at any cost."And finally…*) Webb telescope discovers four oldest galaxies ever observedThe James Webb Space Telescope has discovered the four most distant galaxies ever observed, one of which formed just 320 million years after the Big Bang.In two new studies in the Nature Astronomy journal, astronomers revealed they have "unambiguously detected" the four galaxies.The galaxies are from what is called "the epoch of reionisation," a period when the first stars are believed to have emerged.The epoch came directly after the cosmic dark ages brought about by the Big Bang.
) Finland to become 31st NATO memberFinland's flag will be hoisted outside NATO headquarters as it becomes the newest member of the Western alliance today.Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg announced the news on Monday, the eve of a historic meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels.Objections from Türkiye and Hungary over legitimate security concerns held up Helsinki's bid for months but were ultimately concluded.Completing the ratification in well under a year makes Finland’s membership process the fastest in the alliance's recent history.) Russia accuses Ukraine, Navalny 'agents' of killing blogger TatarskyRussia has blamed Ukrainian intelligence agencies for the bombing attack that killed well-known Russian military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky..Tatarsky was killed on Sunday as he was leading a discussion at a cafe in the historic heart of St. Petersburg. Over 30 people were wounded by the blast.Russia’s top counterterrorism body called it a “terrorist act…planned by Ukrainian special services”.Tatarsky, whose real name was Maxim Fomin, was born in Ukraine's Donbass and was previously sentenced to prison for robbing a bank before fleeing to Russia and joining an anti-Kiev separatist movement.) Russian drones strike Ukraine's port of OdessaMeanwhile, on the war’s 405th day, Ukrainian defence forces have destroyed 14 out of 17 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia launched.Ukraine's military said 13 of the drones were destroyed over the Odessa region in the country's southwest.Earlier, Ukrainian authorities had reported that Russian drones struck and damaged the strategic Ukrainian port of Odessa.) Trump flies to New York to surrender after indictmentDonald Trump has left Florida for New York where he will surrender to authorities after being criminally charged.The 76-year-old Republican is the first American president ever to be criminally indicted.He will be formally charged on Tuesday over hush money paid to an adult movie actress during the 2016 election campaign.New York police were on high alert ahead of his arrival, with security cordons and Secret Service agents outside Trump Tower and the criminal court where he will appear.*) Australia bans TikTok app on government-owned devicesAustralia has decided to ban TikTok on government devices.It joins a growing list of Western nations cracking down on the Chinese-owned app due to national security fears.Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said the decision followed advice from the country's intelligence agencies and would begin "as soon as practicable".Australia is the last member of the secretive Five Eyes security alliance to pursue a government TikTok ban – joining its allies the US, Britain, Canada and New Zealand.
) Oil prices jump after OPEC+ cuts daily production by more than a million barrelsOil prices have soared almost six percent in Asian trade after major producers led by Saudi Arabia announced a surprise cut of more than one million barrels per day.The move led by Saudi Arabia will be in effect from next month until the end of the year, and marks the biggest reduction in output since the OPEC plus slashed two million barrels per day in October.The reduction came on top of a Russian decision to extend a cut of 500,000 barrels per day, and in spite of US calls to increase production.The announcement is expected to fan fresh fears about inflation and put more pressure on central banks to hike interest rates further.) Wagner group claims it captured Bakhmut; Ukraine denies reportThe head of pro-Russian Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, has claimed that his forces have captured Ukraine’s Bakhmut, raising the Russian flag over the city’s administration building.In a message posted on Telegram, Prigozhin said that "from a legal point of view” Bakhmut has been taken.Prigozhin has previously made claims that were premature.Ukraine's army also denied the report saying it still "holds" the city.In a video address on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy gave no indication that the city had fallen, saying fighting remained “particularly hot”.) Finland's centre-right National Coalition Party claims election victoryFinland's centre-right opposition National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo has claimed victory in the Nordic country's tightly-fought parliamentary election on Sunday.With 99 percent of votes counted, the centre-right was credited with 48 of the 200 seats in parliament, the far-right with 46 and the Social Democrats with 43.The biggest party in parliament traditionally gets the first chance to build a government, and since the 1990s that party has always claimed the prime minister's office.Prime Minister Sanna Marin who secured for Finland a NATO membership, has conceded defeat and congratulated the victorious conservatives, saying “democracy has spoken." ) Milatovic wins Montenegro presidency beating veteran leaderIn another election-related development, Montenegro's former minister of economic development Jakov Milatovic has won the country's presidential runoff, according to results from a leading pollster, beating long-time leader Milo Djukanovic in a landslide.The Center for Monitoring and Research said Milatovic won around 60 percent while Djukanovic won around 40 percent. Official results are not expected before Monday.Analysts said the results could change slightly as the vote count progresses but that the gap between the two is too wide for major changes.Djukanovic’s defeat on Sunday means that both he and his party will be in opposition for the first time since late 1980s’.And finally…*) The mobile phone turns 50Today marks the 50th anniversary since the first mobile phone call was made on April 3, 1973. From brick-sized handsets popular with stockbrokers to intensely powerful computers that sit in all our pockets today, mobile phones have been forged by a half-century of innovation.Martin Cooper is the man who developed the technology and made the first call using a Motorola phone.Cooper is now 94 years old and uses the latest iPhone. However, he said that the world has become too obsessed with his invention.He confessed that he will “never, ever understand” how to use the cell phone the way his grandchildren and great-grandchildren do.
) New York grand jury votes to indict Donald TrumpA New York grand jury has voted to indict former US president Donald Trump over hush money payments made to an adult movie actress, Stormy Daniels, ahead of the 2016 election.He is the first ever US president to face a criminal charge.Within minutes of the indictment, Trump issued a statement raging against the decision, which comes as he makes a bid to return to the White House in the 2024 election.Trump is expected to be arraigned on Tuesday, his lawyer said.) Türkiye parliament ratifies Finland's NATO membershipTürkiye becomes the final NATO nation to ratify Finland's membership of the defence alliance in the wake of Russia's offensive in Ukraine.Turkish lawmakers unanimously backed the Nordic country's accession.Türkiye's ratification leaves Finland — which shares over a thousand kilometres of border with Russia — only a few steps from becoming the 31st member of the world's most powerful military bloc.Following the vote, the Finnish president thanked NATO's member states for "their trust and support.") Malaysia court rejects Najib Razak's bid to review 1MDB graft convictionMalaysia's top court has rejected with finality ex-prime minister Najib Razak's bid to overturn a conviction for corruption.Najib, who is the son of another former prime minister, had appealed his case claiming that he did not receive a fair hearing while accusing the judge of conflict of interest.His wife Rosmah, who was also found guilty of graft last year, attended the proceedings on Friday.With the decision, the 69-year-old former leader will continue to serve his 12-year jail sentence for abuse of power, money laundering and criminal breach of trust over the transfer of millions of dollars to his personal bank account.) India temple collapse leaves 35 dead, 16 injuredAt least 35 people have been killed and 16 others injured after the roof of a temple collapsed in central India.The incident occurred in Madhya Pradesh state where devotees gathered at a temple to celebrate a Hindu festival.At least 75 army and rescue personnel worked through the day to remove debris, using ropes and ladders to pull out people who had fallen into the well.*) TRT Afrika: Türkiye's public broadcaster launches Africa editionTürkiye’s public broadcaster TRT has launched a new digital news platform, TRT Afrika, to highlight stories of and from the continent to a global audience.Under the slogan “Afrika as it is” the digital platform will be published in four languages: Swahili, English, Hausa and French.TRT Afrika hopes to provide its audience with an alternative narrative about Africa and feature global stories of significance to the continent with rich, timely and balanced information The channel went live during the second day of a summit organised by TRT and The African Union of Broadcasting in Istanbul. The three-day summit began on March 30.
) Ukraine says Russian forces making progress in frontline BakhmutRussian forces have had some success in the eastern frontline city of Bakhmut, Ukrainian military officials said.The mining city of Bakhmut and surrounding towns in the eastern industrial region of Donetsk have been the focal point of assault for much of the war. Neither side yet has full control with heavy losses suffered by both but Russian officials say their forces are still capturing ground in street-by-street fighting.) Mexico detention cell officials 'did nothing' to save migrants amid blazeThe deaths of 39 migrants in a fire at a Mexican detention centre are being investigated as suspected homicides, a prosecutor has said.In a video, whose authenticity was confirmed by the government, three guards were seen rushing to leave migrants in their cell as flames spread.Eight people have been identified as allegedly responsible for the failure, Security Minister Rodriguez said at a news conference.They are two federal agents and a state immigration official, as well as five members of a private security company.) Uganda deploys 1,000 troops to DRC's troubled eastUganda has deployed 1,000 troops to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo under the regional East African Community force.The deputy spokesperson of Uganda people's defence forces said the Ugandan army will be operating from Ituri province. Burundi and Kenya have already sent their troops to DRC for the same mission.Fighting in eastern DRC has been simmering for decades as more than 120 groups fight for valuable resources — while others try to defend their communities.) UAE president designates his eldest son as crown prince of Abu DhabiThe president of the United Arab Emirates has appointed his eldest son as crown prince of Abu Dhabi. He is now next in line to take over as the leader of the federation.The state-run WAM news agency reported Sheikh Khaled’s appointment as crown prince, without providing further details.The new crown prince has risen to prominence at the country's state security service and as chairman of the powerful Abu Dhabi Executive Office.*) UN adopts landmark resolution on climate justiceThe UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution calling for the world body's top court to outline legal obligations related to the climate crisis.The measure asks the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to lay out nations' obligations for protecting Earth's climate and the legal consequences if they don't.The adoption marked an emotional moment for the Pacific youth who spearheaded the initiative.
) Taiwan president heads to US, Central America amid China's threatsTaiwan President Tsai Ing-wen is set to leave for the United States, a stop on her way to firm ties with Guatemala and Belize.Belize and Guatemala are among just 13 countries that officially recognise democratic Taiwan over China, after Honduras opened diplomatic relations with Beijing on Sunday.House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he will meet Tsai in the US, which China's Taiwan Affairs Office called "a provocation".In response, a senior US official said that China should not "overreact" and use a stopover as a "pretext" for aggression against the democratically ruled island of Taiwan.) Several killed as fire breaks out at migrant centre near Mexico-US borderAt least 39 people have been killed and 29 others injured when a fire broke out at a facility for migrants in Mexico’s city of Ciudad Juarez.A rescuer explained that there were about 70 migrants, mostly Venezuelans, at the site.Ciudad Juarez, which neighbours El Paso city in Texas, is one of the border towns where numerous undocumented migrants seeking refuge in the United States remain stranded.) Russia kicks off exercises with Yars missile systemRussia has begun exercises with its Yars intercontinental ballistic missile system and several thousand troops. It is likely to be seen as another attempt by Moscow to show off its nuclear strength.President Vladimir Putin has aimed to make the Yars missile system part of Russia's "invincible weapons" and the mainstay of the ground-based component of its nuclear arsenal."In total, more than 3,000 military personnel and about 300 pieces of equipment are involved in the exercises," according to a statement by the defence ministry.) Fresh clashes erupt in France in pension protestsFresh clashes have erupted in France between protesters and police as tens of thousands took to the streets to show their anger against President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform that has sparked a major domestic crisis.Tuesday's nationwide protests and strikes called by unions is the tenth since mid-January against the law, which would raise the retirement age from 62 to 64.Police said at least 27 people were arrested in the capital by the afternoon*) Gun violence in US killed 'over 10,000' so far in 2023Gun Violence Archive have reported 130 mass shootings in three months as a fresh shooting in southern state of Tennessee claimed six more lives.According to the archive, more than 10,000 people in the US have died from gun violence as of March 28, 2023. That's an average of more than 111 deaths everyday.On Monday, Tennessee made headlines with the latest mass school shooting, where three children and three adults were killed at a private Christian elementary school in Nashville.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, March 28th.) Russia test fires supersonic anti-ship missile at mock target in Sea of JapanRussia's defence ministry has announced that it test-fired anti-ship missiles in the Sea of Japan.The test involved the firing of two Moskit missiles, a supersonic anti-ship cruise weapon with conventional and nuclear warhead capacity, The latest test comes just a week after two Russian strategic bomber planes flew over Japan for more than seven hours. ) North Korea's Kim orders more production of ‘weapon-grade nuclear material’North Korea’s Kim Jong-un is calling on his country to expand production of “weapon-grade nuclear materials” and build more powerful weapons, the country’s state media reports.Kim’s latest threat, a doubling-down on an earlier promise to ramp up nuke production “exponentially,” comes ahead of a US Navy carrier strike group’s arrival in South Korea today.Kim has been briefed by officials from the country’s nuclear weapons institute, the official Korean Central News Agency reports, saying Pyongyang should prepare to use its nukes “anytime and anywhere.”) Thousands protest as Netanyahu delays judicial overhaulIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces a delay to the controversial judicial reform plans after reaching a deal with his cabinet.In a speech, Netanyahu says there is an “extremist minority” that is trying to divide Israel.As part of the deal to delay the bill, Netanyahu agreed to give far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir control of the National Guard, which is involved with the border patrol in Israel.) Children, adults dead in Nashville school shootingAt least three children and three adults have been killed in a shooting at a private Christian grade school in Nashville, police say.The killings come as communities around the nation are reeling from a spate of school violence, including the massacre at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, last year.Police said that the 28-year-old suspect appeared to have carefully planned the attack and was "prepared for a confrontation with law enforcement.”And finally…*) Hungarian parliament gives nod to Finland NATO accessionAfter months of debate, Hungary’s parliament has approved a bill allowing Finland to join NATO once its application is ratified by all 30 members of the alliance.The bill on Finland’s NATO accession gets the nod with 182 in favour and six votes against. Finland and Sweden asked to join the trans-Atlantic military alliance last year in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. But the process has been held up by Türkiye and Hungary for national security reasons.
) Israeli president urges immediate halt to judicial overhaulIsraeli President Isaac Herzog is urging PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to halt its bitterly contested judicial overhaul.This comes a day after Netanyahu sacked his defence minister for opposing the move, sparking mass street protests.Tens of thousands of Israelis are staging protests in several cities in a spontaneous outburst of anger against the prime minister’s plans, deepening a months-long crisis that has drawn concern from the US and other close allies.) US Vice President Harris visits Africa with eye on countering ChinaUS Vice President Kamala Harris vows that the US will increase investment in Africa and help spur economic growth. The US vice president is embarking on a week-long tour of the continent, aimed at offering a counter to the growing influence of China.China has been investing heavily in Africa in recent decades, including in infrastructure and resource development. The Biden administration seeks to strengthen ties with Africa, in part to offer an alternative to rival powers.) Kiev slams Putin’s nuclear plans, calls for UNSC sessionUkraine is calling for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council over Russia’s announcement that it would station tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus.The Ukrainian foreign ministry says: “Russia once again confirms its chronic inability to be a responsible steward of nuclear weapons as a means of deterrence and prevention of war, not as a tool of threats and intimidation.”Ukraine says it expects effective actions to counteract the Kremlin’s nuclear blackmail from the United Kingdom, China, the United States and France, further demanding an extraordinary meeting of the UN Security Council.) Tunisia coast guard recovers dozens of bodies after migrant vessels capsizeTunisia’s coast guard announces the recovery of the bodies of at least 29 migrants and asylum seekers from sub-Saharan African countries after three vessels capsized.The Tunisian coast guard says it has also rescued 11 irregular migrants of “various African nationalities” after their boats sank off the central eastern coast, citing three different incidents.Separately, in the last four days, five migrant boats have sunk off the coast of the southern city of Sfax, leaving 67 missing and nine dead.*) Erdogan vows to rebuild Türkiye’s quake-hit southern regionThe Turkish president vows to rebuild the country’s southern region in the wake of powerful earthquakes last month that claimed the lives of more than 50,000 people.President Erdogan says: “Our aim is to raise-up the earthquake zone.”Türkiye plans to construct enough buildings in a year to meet the needs of the quake victims, the Turkish president says, adding that 319,000 houses will be built in the first year and 650,000 in total.
) Ukraine prepares counteroffensive as Russia's assault on Bakhmut flagsUkraine's top ground forces commander Oleksandr Syrskyi has said his forces would soon begin a counter offensive after withstanding Russia's brutal winter campaign.He said Russia's Wagner mercenaries, who have been at the front line of Moscow's assault on eastern and southern Ukraine, "are losing considerable strength and are running out of steam".However, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that without a faster supply of arms from Europe, the war could last years.) North Korea tests new underwater 'nuclear attack drone'North Korea has tested a new nuclear underwater attack drone this week, according to state news agency KCNA, as a US amphibious assault ship arrived in South Korea for joint drills.The drone system designed to unleash a "radioactive tsunami" is intended to make sneak attacks in enemy waters and destroy naval striker groups and major operational ports, KCNA said.The state news agency also confirmed the firing of cruise missiles during the weapons test and firing drill that took place from Tuesday to Thursday.) Burundi army contingent takes over areas vacated by M23 rebels in DRCTroops from the Burundi National Defense Forces deployed under the East African Community Regional Force have taken over three villages that had been occupied by M23 rebels.The withdrawal of the rebels is in compliance with a communique of the East Africa Community Heads of State, marking a significant milestone towards restoring peace and stability in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.The M23 rebel group, which was formed in 2012 by disgruntled Congolese militants who wanted to be enlisted in the national army, has often attacked areas in eastern DRC.In June last year, they attacked areas in eastern DRC and occupied them until recently.) 'Discussion under way' between Saudi Arabia, Syria over consular servicesSaudi Arabia and Syria are in talks on resuming consular services, Saudi state media have said, more than a decade after the Gulf kingdom cut ties with Bashar al Assad's regime.Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said in February that a consensus was building in the Arab world that a new approach to Syria would be needed to address humanitarian crises.Damascus has seen amplified Arab engagement since two earthquakes struck southeastern Türkiye and northern Syria on February 6. *) Biden in Canada to meet with Trudeau on issues including immigration, HaitiUS President Joe Biden has arrived in Canada’s capital Ottawa for talks that will focus on a range of issues including immigration and defense co-operation.According to reports, Biden and Trudeau are expected to announce a deal that would restrict certain migrants from seeking protection in Canada as well as a new refugee admission program.Canada's contributions to the North American Air Defense Command and NATO as part of defense spending are also expected to be on the agenda.
) Israel ratifies law limiting conditions for a possible Netanyahu ousterIsrael has ratified a law limiting the circumstances in which a prime minister can be removed, despite worries voiced by a government jurist that it may be meant to shield the incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu from any fallout from his corruption trials.The amended definition for the "incapacity" of national leaders is among legislative measures by the religious-nationalist coalition that have tipped Israel into crisis, with the opposition arguing that judicial independence is in peril.The coalition says the overhaul is aimed at pushing back against Supreme Court over-reach and restoring balance among branches of government.) California may become first US state to outlaw caste discriminationCalifornia may become the first US state to outlaw caste-based discrimination, a safeguard that people of South Asian descent, especially Indians, say is necessary to protect them from discrimination in housing, education and the tech sector where they hold key roles.State Senator Aisha Wahab, the first Muslim and Afghan American elected to the state legislature, introduced the bill on Wednesday.It adds caste — a division of people related to birth or descent — as a protected category in the state's anti-discrimination laws.)Australia's Albanese appeals referendum voters to back Aboriginal 'voice'Australia's prime minister has made a tearful appeal to voters, asking them to support the creation of an Aboriginal "voice" in lawmaking as he announced the wording of the referendum question.Anthony Albanese said on Thursday Australians had a chance to make up for centuries of injustice, formally recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island groups, and give them a voice in decision-making at a vote later this year.This is "about how our nation sees ourselves. Whether we have the confidence to embrace our history", said Albanese, painting the vote as a chance for Australians to make their country fairer.) Biden vows to support disaster-hit Türkiye, Syria, Pakistan in Ramadan wishUS President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden have marked the start of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, wishing Muslims worldwide "Ramadan Kareem.""We will continue to stand with the people of Türkiye and Syria — who have lost many loved ones during the recent devastating earthquakes — and with the people of Pakistan, who are rebuilding their lives following last summer's floods."To my fellow Americans observing Ramadan, and to Muslims around the world: Ramadan Kareem — we wish you a blessed and peaceful Ramadan," said Biden.*) Qatari banker, British billionaire prepare fresh bids for Man Utd takeoverThe battle to buy Manchester United football club has heated up as Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe prepared to raise bids for the 20-time English champions.Both parties were expected to increase their initial offers on Wednesday after the submission deadline of 2100 GMT was extended by merchant bank Raine, which is assisting with the sale of the club, following confusion over the timing, the British media reported.It is also reported that Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe had been granted extensions to submit fresh bids.
) Putin-Xi reach deal on Russian Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline to ChinaRussia and China have reached an agreement on the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, which will connect Siberia to northwest China, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping."All agreements have been reached," Putin said, adding that economic cooperation between Moscow and Beijing was a "priority" for Russia.The planned pipeline would deliver 50 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to China via Mongolia. ) Israel annuls law that banned four occupied West Bank settlementsIsraeli parliament has repealed legislation that ordered the evacuation of four illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. This move is one of the first by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right coalition. The original law, passed in 2005, mandated the evacuation of four illegal Jewish settlements in the northern occupied West Bank along with Israel's disengagement from Gaza. The repeal would allow Jewish residents to return to these settlements on condition of approval by the Israeli military.) Death toll climbs after strong earthquake jolts Pakistan, AfghanistanDeath toll has climbed to 11 after a magnitude 6.5 earthquake rattled much of Pakistan and Afghanistan, sending panicked residents fleeing from homes and offices and frightening people even in remote villages.More than 100 people were brought to hospitals in the Swat valley region of Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in a state of shock.The US Geological Survey said the centre of the magnitude 6.5 quake was located 40 kilometres south-southeast of Jurm in Afghanistan's mountainous Hindukush region, bordering Pakistan and Tajikistan. ) UN warns 'vampiric' water use leading to imminent global crisisHumanity's "lifeblood" - water - is increasingly at risk around the world due to "vampiric overconsumption and overdevelopment," the UN has warned in a report.The world is "blindly travelling a dangerous path" as "unsustainable water use, pollution and unchecked global warming are draining humanity's lifeblood," United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres said in a foreword to the report, released hours ahead of the first major UN meeting on water resources in nearly half a century.Co-hosted by the governments of Tajikistan and the Netherlands, the UN Water Conference will gather some 6,500 participants, including 100 ministers and a dozen heads of state and government Wednesday through Friday in New York.*) Yellen says bank situation 'stabilising,' system is 'sound'Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is trying to project calm after regional bank failures, saying the US banking system is “sound” but additional rescue arrangements “could be warranted” if any new failures at smaller institutions pose a risk to financial stability.Silicon Valley Bank, based in Santa Clara, California, failed on March 10 after depositors rushed to withdraw money amid anxiety over the bank’s health. It was the second-largest bank collapse in US history.
) Japan PM to meet Zelenskyy as Putin, Xi hold second day of talksVladimir Putin and Xi Jinping are set to hold a second day of talks, as the Russian president said he was open to discussing China's proposals on the fighting in Ukraine.The sit-down was to be unexpectedly mirrored in Kiev, where Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was en route to meet Volodymyr Zelenskyy.Xi's trip to Moscow has been viewed as a major boost for his strategic partner Putin, who is subject to an International Criminal Court warrant over accusations of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.) NYPD tightens security fearing protests over likely Trump indictmentNew York police have tightened security ahead of a possible historic indictment of Donald Trump over hush money paid to an actress, with the ex-president calling for mass demonstrations if he is charged.Trump supporters attended a protest in America's financial capital on Monday evening though, as a grand jury weighs an investigation by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg over the 2016 payment to Stormy Daniels.Trump would become the first former or sitting president to be charged with a crime if an indictment is filed.) Nigeria's two big parties emerge strong after deadly governorship pollsNigeria's two biggest parties won the majority of states in weekend governorship polls, official figures have shown, maintaining their political dominance following elections in which European Union observers said 21 people died from violence.Voters were choosing governors in 28 of the country's 36 states to bring to an end this year's election cycle that began with disputed presidential and legislative elections last month.) Erdogan lauds int'l solidarity as $7B pledged for quake-hit Türkiye, SyriaTürkiye will never forget the solidarity displayed by the EU, the UN and other international organisations after the February 6 earthquakes, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said during a virtual address for the opening session of the International Donors' Conference, organised by the European Commission and the Swedish Presidency of the EU Council to support victims affected by the devastating earthquakes in southern Türkiye. *) Biden signs bill to declassify US intelligence on Covid-19 originsUS President Joe Biden signed a bill that requires Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines to declassify information related to the origins of Covid-19, the White House has said.Biden said he shared Congress' goal of releasing as much information as possible about the origin of Covid-19. However, he said his administration would keep national security in mind when deciding what to release.
) Russia hails China's willingness to resolve Ukraine conflictRussia's President Vladimir Putin has welcomed China's willingness to play a "constructive role" in ending the conflict in Ukraine, saying Sino-Russian relations were "at the highest point" in history.His Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping heads to Russia hoping to deliver a breakthrough on Ukraine as Beijing seeks to position itself as a peacemaker.The quality of ties between Moscow and Beijing is "higher than the political and military unions of the Cold War era", Putin said in an article written for a Chinese newspaper and published by the Kremlin on the eve of Xi's visit.) Biden in call with Netanyahu expresses 'concern' over judicial reform planUS President Joe Biden has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express "concern” over his government’s planned overhaul of the country’s judicial system which has sparked widespread protests across Israel.The White House said on Sunday Biden reiterated US concerns about the measure to roll back the judiciary’s insulation from the country’s political system, in a call a senior administration official described as “candid and constructive.” There was no immediate indication that Netanyahu was shying away from the action after rejecting a compromise offered by the country’s figurehead president last week.) North Korea's Kim supervises drills 'simulating a nuclear counterattack'North Korean leader Kim Jong-un led two days of military drills "simulating a nuclear counterattack", including the firing of a ballistic missile carrying a mock nuclear warhead, state news agency KCNA has reported.Kim expressed "satisfaction" over the weekend drills, which were held to "let relevant units get familiar with the procedures and processes for implementing their tactical nuclear attack missions", the report said on Monday.The drills were the fourth show of force from Pyongyang in a week and came as South Korea and the United States stage their own military manoeuvres - 11 days of joint drills known as Freedom Shield, their largest in five years.) Governing party in Kazakhstan sweeps parliamentary election: exit pollsKazakhstan voted in a snap parliamentary election widely expected to cement President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's position and complete a reshuffle of the ruling elite that began after he fully assumed leadership last year.Exits polls showed the ruling Amanat party winning 53-54 percent of the vote, enough to retain a comfortable majority. Voter turnout stood at 54.2 percent, the Central Election Commission said.A stronger mandate will help Tokayev navigate through regional turmoil caused by Russia-Ukraine conflict and the subsequent damage to trade, investment and supply chains throughout the former Soviet Union.*) 'Jurassic Park' actor Sam Neill diagnosed with stage-three blood cancerActor Sam Neill has revealed he is being treated for stage-three blood cancer, writing in a memoir that he was "possibly dying" from the illness diagnosed a year ago.The New Zealander, who burst to fame after starring as Dr Alan Grant in the 1993 blockbuster "Jurassic Park", said he began treatment last March.Neill, 75, makes the revelation in his book "Did I Ever Tell You This?", which is being released next week.
) Ukraine vows to drag Russia into courtUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has vowed that those guilty of war crimes in Russia’s war against Ukraine will be brought to justice.Zelenskyy said Ukraine was carrying out legal processes and mobilising its allies to have Russia appear in the International Criminal Court, as well as in national courtrooms.Moscow denies deliberately targeting civilians, though the conflict has killed thousands, displaced millions, and pulverised Ukrainian cities.) Israelis stage 'day of resistance' against judicial reformsTens of thousands of protesters have returned to the streets of Israel to stage another day of resistance against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s judicial reforms.The fresh protests in Tel Aviv, West Jerusalem and Haifa came after Netanyahu rejected a compromise plan touted by the country's President Isaac Herzog.The judicial overhaul has raised concerns for Israel’s democracy, as it would upend the country's system of checks and balances and give the prime minister too much power.) Erdogan hails Turkic world's solidarity after quakesHosting the extraordinary summit of leaders of the Organization of Turkic States, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hailed the Turkic world’s solidarity after the deadly earthquakes in southern Türkiye.The Turkic world was among the first to help after the February 6 quakes, Erdogan said at the summit focusing on Disaster-Emergency Management and Humanitarian Assistance.You did not leave us alone in our most difficult moment. Our beloved nation will never forget your support, Erdogan told fellow heads of state.) Cyclone Freddy kills hundreds in MalawiaRescuers in storm-ravaged Malawi have made a grim hunt for buried bodies after Cyclone Freddy struck the eastern African country, killing more than 300 people.Search and rescue efforts were a joint operation by the military and local inhabitants, who lacked sniffer dogs and were armed just with shovels.As the rains ceased for the first time in five days, rescuers dug up decomposing bodies from the mud and the debris of homes that had been swept away by the storm.*) Australian breaks record for world's longest surfFormer surfing pro Blake Johnston has shredded the world record for the longest surfing session, catching waves for over 30 exhausting hours.The 40-year-old Australian broke down in tears at Sydney's Cronulla Beach after beating South African Josh Enslin's previous record of 30 hours 11 minutes.Johnston briefly thanked the crowd lining the beach during one of the short food and water breaks he was allowed, before paddling back out to try and push the record to 40 hours.
) South Korea premier arrives in Japan to open 'new chapter'South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has arrived in Japan looking to open a "new chapter" in relations, just hours after North Korea fired a long-range ballistic missile.Yoon's two-day trip comes after Seoul this month announced a plan to compensate Korean victims of Japan's wartime forced labour without any direct involvement by Tokyo.Reports suggest the visit could herald the restart of shuttle diplomacy, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida possibly inviting Yoon to the G7 summit in Hiroshima in May, and then visiting Seoul.) Pakistan court postpones police operation to arrest Imran KhanA Pakistani high court has ordered police to postpone an operation to arrest former Prime Minister Imran Khan.A lower court in Islamabad had issued a warrant against Khan for defying orders to present himself in court over charges that he unlawfully sold state gifts given to him by foreign dignitaries when he was prime minister.The court-ordered attempt to arrest Khan, which began on Tuesday, triggered clashes between his supporters and security forces in his Lahore neighbourhood, raising fears about Pakistan’s political stability ) IAEA says tonnes of uranium missing from Libya site beyond govt controlUN nuclear watchdog inspectors have found that roughly 2.5 tonnes of natural uranium have gone missing from a Libyan site that is not under government control.In a statement, the International Atomic Energy Agency said it would carry out "further activities" to determine the circumstances of the uranium's removal from the site, which it did not name, and where it is now. The IAEA statement said: "The loss of knowledge about the present location of nuclear material may present a radiological risk, as well as nuclear security concerns". ) No signs of Ukraine withdrawing from Bakhmut - Russian officialAccording to the Russian-installed leader of Ukraine's Donetsk region, the situation for Russian forces trying to capture the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut is "difficult", because there are no signs Kiev is ready to order a withdrawal of its troops.Russia says capturing the city will allow it to launch more offensives deeper into Ukrainian territory which it says it is fighting to "liberate".The head of Wagner Group Yevgeny Prigozhin has said his forces are in control of practically half the city and only one exit road remains available to Ukraine.*) Greek unions launch 24-hour walkout over train tragedyGreek unions have started a 24-hour walkout with demonstrations planned in major cities to voice outrage over last month's train disaster, which claimed 57 lives.The strike called by the country's leading private and public sector unions will disrupt transport and the civil service.The fatal crash occurred shortly before midnight on February 28 when a passenger train crashed head-on into a freight train in central Greece after both were mistakenly left running on the same track.The stationmaster and three other railway officials have been charged, but public anger has focused on long-running mismanagement of the network.
) Some 1,000 Israeli figures urge Germany, UK to cancel Netanyahu visitIn a letter addressed to the German and British ambassadors in Israel, some 1,000 Israeli figures have called on the European countries to cancel upcoming visits by Prime Minister Netanyahu.The group of writers, artists and intellectuals expressed their disapproval of Netanyahu’s plan to overhaul Israel's judicial system, saying he has put the country on a destructive course.Netanyahu is scheduled to meet Germany’s Chancellor on Thursday in Berlin, where Israeli expats say they are organising a large protest against their visiting prime minister.) Russian jet collides with US drone over Black Sea: US militaryA Russian fighter jet has dumped fuel on an American drone over the Black Sea and then collided with it, causing the drone to crash, according to the US military. US European Command said that two Russian fighters intercepted the unmanned combat aerial vehicle over international waters and one clipped its propeller.Russia's defence ministry said it ordered the immediate take off of the jets following the detection of a US drone over the Black Sea but denied causing it to crash.The US State Department says it has summoned Russia's ambassador to protest the crash.) Facebook parent Meta to lay off 10,000 more employeesFacebook parent Meta is slashing another 10,000 jobs and will not fill 5,000 open positions as the social media pioneer cuts costs.The company said it would reduce the size of its recruiting team and make further cuts in its tech groups in late April, and then its business groups in late May.In February, Meta posted lower fourth-quarter profit and revenue, hurt by a downturn in the online advertising market and competition from rivals such as TikTok.) Price set for Türkiye's first domestically-produced electric car TOGG T10XTürkiye's first indigenous electric car maker TOGG has unveiled the prices of its first model, with online pre-orders to begin later this week.The price of the standard range model T10X will start from about $50,200 to about $55,600, while the long-range model was priced at about $64,000.Pre-orders for the TOGG T10X will be taken online between March 16 to 27 and deliveries will start in late March.*) Galatasaray to play charity match against Qarabag to help quake victimsTurkish football powerhouse Galatasaray will play a charity match against Azerbaijan's Qarabag on March 26 to help earthquake victims in Türkiye.Qarabag said that Galatasaray will visit them in a friendly match in Baku, and all proceeds from the match will be donated to those impacted by the February 6 quakes that killed over 48,000 people.Galatasaray is one of the many Turkish football clubs that have banded together to help with earthquake relief efforts.
) Russia: 60-day extension of wartime grain deal acceptableRussia's deputy foreign minister said Moscow does not object to another extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative but only for 60 days.The deal was set to complete its second term on March 18.Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin added that Russia’s future stance will be determined upon the tangible progress on normalisation of the country’s agricultural exports. ) US, Britain unveil nuclear-powered submarine plan for AustraliaThe leaders of the United States, Australia and Britain revealed details of a plan to offer Australia nuclear-powered attack submarines. Under the deal, the United States intends to sell Australia three US Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines in the early 2030s, with an option to buy two more if needed, a statement from the leaders said.) Two dead, multiple injured after truck hits pedestrians in Canada's QuebecTwo men died after a pickup truck hit pedestrians beside a road in the eastern Quebec town of Amqui.A provincial police spokesperson said that nine other people were injured, including two whose injuries are considered serious.The 38-year-old driver, a local resident, turned himself into police and was arrested under suspicion of committing a fatal hit and run, police further said. ) US private sector raises over $110M to aid Türkiye quake victimsThe US Chamber of Commerce has said the country's private sector raised more than $110 million for earthquake relief for Türkiye as the US-Türkiye Business Forum convened in Washington, DC.As the business people, diplomats and representatives from both Türkiye and the US gathered for the forum in the US capital, a minute of silence was held by the participants to honour the victims of the February 6 earthquakes. *) Amnesty decries rising police misuse of rubber bullets globallyAmnesty International warned that police use of rubber bullets and other projectiles against protesters has become increasingly routine worldwide, leading to many eye injuries and even deaths. The group called for better global regulation of the trade and use of such policing equipment, also called for "less lethal weapons", after research in more than 30 countries over the past five years.
) Casualties mount as Ukraine, Russia battle for Bakhmut ragesRussian forces suffered more than 1,100 dead in less than a week of battles near the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, the focal point of fighting in eastern Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.Zelenskyy said Russian forces had also sustained 1,500 "sanitary losses" - soldiers wounded badly enough to keep them out of further action.Russia has not responded to the Ukrainian claim. However, the Russian Defence Ministry had said earlier that up to 210 Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the broader Donetsk part of the frontline.) Deal with Iran does not mean 'all issues resolved': Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia has said that agreement to reestablish diplomatic relations with Iran "does not mean that all issues have been resolved".The agreement is an indication of the common desire to resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said.The minister noted that Saudi Arabia is preparing to restart relations with Iran in two months and that mutual visits can be made in the future.) China's Xi highlights national security in congress closing speechIn his first address since being handed a historic third term, China's President Xi Jinping emphasised the need to strengthen national security.Xi thanked the thousands of delegates at Beijing's Great Hall of the People for giving him a third term, vowing to "take the needs of the country as my mission, and the interests of the people as my yardstick".Xi became China's most powerful leader in generations last week when he was reappointed for another five years at the helm of the world's most populous nation, in a break with long-standing political precedent.) US scrambles to prevent SVB collapse fallout, protects customer depositsFourteen migrants from sub-Saharan Africa drowned off the coast of Sfax, Tunisia, after their boat sank, according to the country’s coastguard. 54 people were rescued. Tunisia has long been a springboard for Africans fleeing war and poverty to seek better lives in Europe, often on unseaworthy boats.The coastguard regularly intercepts boats carrying migrants in Tunisia’s territorial waters, part of the world's deadliest migration route.*)'Everything Everywhere All At Once' triumphs at Oscars with 7 winsSurreal sci-fi film "Everything Everywhere All at Once" dominated the Oscars, winning seven golden statuettes including best picture, Hollywood's most coveted prize.The unorthodox but beloved movie also won best director, best actress, best original screenplay, best editing, and both the best supporting actor and actress prizes on Sunday.Michelle Yeoh, who is Malaysian, became the first ever Asian woman to win best actress, for her portrayal of an exhausted Chinese laundromat owner embroiled in battle with an inter-dimensional supervillain - who happens to be her daughter.
) Xi Jinping bags historic third term as presidentXi Jinping has been handed a third term as China’s president, capping a rise that has seen him become the country's most powerful leader in generations.Nearly 3,000 members of National People's Congress voted unanimously for Xi, who had locked in another five years as head of the Communist Party and the military in October.69-year-old Xi's coronation sets him up to become modern China's longest-serving president, and means he will rule well into his seventies — if no challenger emerges.) Russia intentionally targeting nuclear facilities: ZelenskyyUkraine has accused Russia of unleashing a barrage of high-precision missile and other attacks that have triggered a wave of electricity, heat, and water blackouts.Calling Russia a “terrorist state”, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Europe's biggest nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia was again disconnected from the power grid due to the attacks.Adding that Moscow is "deliberately" creating critical situations at nuclear facilities, Zelenskyy called for sanctions against Russian nuclear industry.) Several dead in shooting in German city of HamburgSeveral people have been killed in a shooting at a Jehovah's Witness centre in Hamburg, Germany, with the gunman believed to be among the dead.Police did not give an exact death toll, but several German media outlets said at least seven people had been killed and eight seriously injured.Police said there was no reliable information on the motive of the crime yet, while sounding the alarm for "extreme danger" in the area.Residents were urged to stay indoors.) Migrants from sub-Saharan Africa drown off TunisiaFourteen migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have drowned off the coast of Sfax, Tunisia, after their boat sank, according to the country’s coastguard. 54 people were rescued. Tunisia has long been a springboard for Africans fleeing war and poverty to seek better lives in Europe, often on unseaworthy boats.The coastguard regularly intercepts boats carrying migrants in Tunisia’s territorial waters, part of the world's deadliest migration route.*) Innocent Black murder convict walks freeA Black man who spent more than eighteen years in prison for a murder he did not commit after being intentionally misidentified by the police has been freed from jail.New Yorker Sheldon Thomas was convicted over the 2004 fatal drive-by shooting of 14-year-old Anderson Bercy, whose real killer remains unknown.Thomas was arrested after a faulty witness identification. The witness was given the picture of another Sheldon Thomas by the United States police.An attorney said the detectives were intent on arresting Thomas and used the faulty identification as pretext. The mistake was then concealed by the police.
) Saudi engineer walks free from Guantanamo prison after 21 yearsThe United States has announced the release from Guantanamo military prison of a Saudi engineer seized over two decades ago as a suspect in the September 11 attacks.48-year-old Ghassan Al Sharbi was detained in Pakistan in March 2002.The US military had weighed charges against Al Sharbi and several others but dropped them in 2008.Thirty-one detainees remain at Guantanamo, down from a peak of nearly 800. Of them, 17 are eligible for transfer.) Soldiers say fall of Kabul was US failure with blame touching Bush to BidenActive-service members and veterans have provided firsthand testimony about the chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan, describing in detail the carnage they witnessed on the ground.The majority of witnesses argued to Congress that the fall of Kabul was an American failure with blame touching every presidential administration from George W. Bush to Joe Biden.The initial hearing was the first of what is expected to be a series of Republican-led hearings examining the Biden administration's handling of the withdrawal. ) Colombia, ELN rebels to hold next phase of peace talks in CubaColombia's government and National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels will hold a third round of talks in Cuba aimed at ending decades of armed conflict, the two sides have said.According to a statement, the dialogue has made "substantial progress" since resuming in Mexico on February 13, following a first round in Venezuela in November.The negotiators reported late last month that the Colombian government had recognised the National Liberation Army (ELN) as a political organisation in order to advance the process.) Damning probe finds US police in Louisville discriminate against Black residents An investigation conducted by the US Justice Department has found that American police in the Louisville city of Kentucky state routinely discriminate against Black residents.The report comes nearly two years after US Attorney General Merrick Garland launched the investigation into the department whose officers shot and killed Breonna Taylor.The investigation found a wide-ranging pattern of misconduct by police, including the use of excessive force and the conduct of illegal searches.And finally…*) Netherlands announces plans to curb tech exports after US pressureThe Dutch government has announced plans for new export restrictions on technology to make computer chips, following pressure from the United States to restrict Chinese access.The Netherlands, Europe's premier maker of the machines that help manufacture microchips, has been pushed to impose curbs similar to those announced by Washington last year.The government said the aim of the export controls was to prevent military use, and to protect the Netherlands' "unique and leading position".
) Israeli army storms occupied West Bank's Jenin city, kills six PalestiniansThe Israeli army has stormed the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, killing at least six Palestinians and wounding 10 others, according to Palestinian health officials.The Palestinian Health Ministry identified one of the fatalities as 26-year-old Mohammed Ghazawi. The ministry later announced five other Palestinians were shot and killed, without giving further details.At least 26 Palestinians were also wounded during the raid, the ministry said, three of them seriously. The Israeli army said two of its soldiers were lightly wounded. ) Zelenskyy says his armed forces are resolved to stay in BakhmutUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said the Russian army would have an "open road" into eastern Ukraine if it captures the besieged city of Bakhmut.Zelenskyy told CNN that Ukraine understands that after Bakhmut Russians could go further to Kramatorsk and Sloviansk opening the road for them to other Ukrainian towns. Zelenskyy said that his armed forces were resolved to stay in Bakhmut.) Over 232,000 buildings damaged or fit for demolition after Türkiye quakesMore than 232 thousand buildings have been severely damaged or should be demolished immediately in southern Türkiye after the powerful earthquakes that struck the region, the country's environment minister Murat Kurum said.Authorities examined more than 1.7 million buildings composed of over 5.7 million independent sections in the quake-hit provinces.The damage assessment was completed in Gaziantep, Kahramanmaras, Adiyaman, Osmaniye, and Kilis provinces, Kurum added.) Millions join protests in France over Macron’s pension reformMore than a million people marched in France and strikes disrupted transport and schools during mass protests against President Emmanuel Macron's plans to push back the retirement age to 64.Union organisers put the figure of the protesters at 3.5 million.Police used tear gas in Paris and some clashes took place in the western city of Nantes, but more than 260 union-organised rallies across the country were mostly peaceful.And finally…*) UNESCO-listed Mount Nemrut statues survive Türkiye quakesSeveral monumental stone heads located in Mount Nemrut and other UNESCO-listed statues in southeastern Türkiye have survived despite the powerful earthquakes.Fresh footage showed the massive heads, each weighing tonnes, on the eastern face of the mountain in Adiyaman province.Irfan Cetinkaya, head of a culture and tourism association, noted that the quake caused severe damage in the region adding that the statues on Mount Nemrut were not affected by the tremors.”
) Zelenskyy vows not to retreat from BakhmutUkrainian President Zelenskyy has instructed the army to bolster defences in the embattled city of Bakhmut, which has become a symbolic prize in the war with Russia.Amid Moscow’s three-sided assault to try and finish off Bakhmut’s resistance, Zelenskyy said there was no part of Ukraine that could be abandoned.The president’s top adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said Ukrainian forces around the city have been grinding down enemy forces and reinforcing their positions.) US' downing test missiles will be 'declaration of war': DPRKThe influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has warned that any move by the United States to shoot down Pyongyang’s test missiles would be a declaration of war.According to state media KCNA, Kim Yo-Jong blamed a joint military exercise between the US and South Korea for growing tensions.Kim warned that the North was ready to take quick, overwhelming action against the allies, while also hinting that they could fire more missiles into the Pacific Ocean. ) Turkish opposition announces presidency candidateTürkiye’s opposition alliance has named the chairman of the Republican People’s Party as their joint candidate for the upcoming presidential election.74-year-old politician Kemal Kilicdaroglu will represent the six-party bloc in the election which is expected to be held on May 14th.) Afghan universities reopen without womenAfghan universities have reopened after a winter break, but only men returned to class, with a ban on women receiving higher education still in force.The university ban is one of several restrictions on women as the Taliban has effectively squeezed women out of public life since storming back to power in August 2021.The Taliban has sparked global outrage with its treatment of women and girls, and no country has so far officially recognised them as Afghanistan's legitimate rulers.*) Neymar to undergo season-ending surgeryFrench football club Paris Saint-Germain has announced that Brazilian player Neymar will undergo a season-ending surgery on his damaged right ankle.According to the Qatari-backed club, Neymar will be operated on in the coming days at a hospital in Doha following his latest sprain during a match on February 20. He will be out for up to four months, and will miss the PSG's Champions League match at Bayern Munich on Wednesday.
) Azerbaijan: Soldiers killed after Armenian provocation Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry has reported at least two Azerbaijani soldiers were killed after Armenian forces opened fire in the disputed Karabakh region. Azerbaijani soldiers tried to stop and check Armenian vehicles suspected of carrying illegal military transports to Karabakh, when shots were fired by the Armenian forces and a clash erupted. According to the local media, three Armenian police officers have died in the clash. ) Stationmaster charged over Greece train crash A stationmaster accused of causing Greece's deadliest train disaster has been charged with negligent homicide and jailed pending trial. The 59-year-old stationmaster allegedly directed a passenger train and a freight train travelling in opposite directions onto the same track. At least 57 people, many of them in their teens and 20s, were killed when the trains collided late on Tuesday in central Greece. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis apologised for any responsibility the country’s government may bear for the tragedy. ) Rohingya camp fire renders thousands shelterless In southeastern Bangladesh, a fire has destroyed 2,000 shelters at a Rohingya refugee camp, leaving around 12,000 forcibly displaced Myanmar nationals shelterless. The fire rapidly engulfed camp number 11 in Kutupalong, one of the world's largest refugee settlements, according to Bangladesh's refugee commissioner. At least 35 mosques and 21 learning centres for the refugees were destroyed alongside the bamboo-and-tarpaulin shelters, though there were no reports of injuries or deaths. ) More schoolgirls reportedly poisoned in Iran More Iranian schoolgirls have been reported poisoned in several provinces, sparking calls for authorities to act amid growing concern among parents. The latest spate of poisonings affected dozens of schoolgirls who were taken to local hospitals for treatment, local news agencies reported. Since late November, hundreds of cases have been reported with at least 52 schools targeted around Iran, according to an official tally published on Saturday. *) Police reach Pakistan's former PM Khan's residence to arrest him Islamabad police have entered Pakistan's former Premier Imran Khan's residence in the northeastern Lahore city to arrest him. The court issued a non-bailable arrest warrant against Khan in the federal capital on February 28th, in connection with the illegal purchase and sale of gifts. Khan, the country's only premier who was ousted through a no-trust vote, is facing a slew of cases against him, including terrorism, attempted murder and money laundering. Most of the cases, which Khan dubs a "sham," have been lodged after his ouster.
) Argentina withdraws from Falkland Islands pact with UK Argentina has walked away from a cooperation pact with the United Kingdom and demanded new talks with London over the sovereignty of the disputed Falkland Islands. At the G20 summit in India on Thursday, Argentinian Foreign Minister Santiago Cafiero informed UK counterpart James Cleverly that his government was abandoning the pact. Argentina believes the islands known as the Malvinas were illegally taken from it in 1833 and invaded the British colony in 1982. The United Kingdom sent troops and Argentina lost the two-month war for the South Atlantic archipelago in a conflict that claimed the lives of 649 Argentines and 255 British soldiers. ) More than 200 killed, nearly 700 wounded in Somaliland clashes More than 200 people lost their lives in over 24 days of clashes between security forces and clans in a disputed part of Somalia's breakaway Somaliland region, an official has said. The mayor of the contested town, Abdirahim Ali Ismail told a press conference on Thursday that 210 civilians were killed and 680 others wounded in the fighting. Somaliland has claimed independence from Somalia since 1991 but has never been recognised internationally. ) Gaza warns of 'environmental catastrophe' as landfill fire rages Gaza officials have called for international help to extinguish a fire that started in a landfill in a village near the fence with Israel, saying it could last for days and cause an environmental catastrophe. A large cloud of heavy smoke billowed into the sky as night fell on Thursday, and there was a strong smell of burning rubbish across Gaza City. The fire started southeast of Gaza City, near the separation fence, for reasons that have yet to be confirmed, according to the Gaza municipality ) 'Messi, we're waiting for you': Gunmen threaten football star Lionel Messi Two gunmen on motorcycles have shot at a supermarket belonging to the family of Antonella Roccuzzo, wife of Lionel Messi, in Rosario, in Argentina's Santa Fe province, local media and the city's mayor reported. A threatening hand-written message for 35-year-old Messi, Argentina's captain and seven-times World Player of the Year, was also left on the shop door on Thursday. "Messi, we are waiting for you, (Pablo) Javkin (the mayor) is also a narco (drug trafficker), he is not going to take care of you," it read. And finally… *) Over 1,500 pets have been rescued so far since the twin earthquakes hit southern Türkiye Over 1,500 pets have been rescued so far since the twin earthquakes hit southern Türkiye, a non-profit organisation has said. More than three weeks after the deadly earthquake in Türkiye, the animal rescue team from Humane Society International is still finding dogs and cats alive in abandoned apartments, damaged buildings or wandering the streets. The animal charity estimates that more than 1,500 animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, goldfish, a rooster, budgies, reptiles and more ― have been brought to receive medical care at the three main veterinary field clinics.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, March 2nd.) UN scrambles to reunite families after Turkey-Syria quakeReuniting children with their missing families has become the UN’s top priority in the aftermath of last month's massive earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria.UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said that the first challenge is figuring out if the children’s parents are alive.The Turkish minister for family affairs said more than 1,800 “unaccompanied children” have been reunited with their families since the quake.Efforts are under way to identify 83 other children and reunite them with family members.) Israelis stage 'national disruption day'Weeks of anti-government protests in Israel have turned violent after Israeli police fired stun grenades and water cannons at demonstrators who blocked a Tel Aviv highway.Thousands of protesters across the country staged a "national disruption day," the latest in a string of mass protests against the Netanyahu-led government's judicial reforms.Protesters shouted "Where were you in Hawara?" at policemen, referring to Sunday's rampage by Jewish settlers through Palestinian villages in the occupied West Bank.) 'Global governance has failed': Indian PM Modi at G20 meetIndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that multilateral institutions had failed to meet the world's most pressing challenges while opening the G20 foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi.Russia's offensive in Ukraine is set to dominate the meeting of the world's top diplomats.Modi pointed to financial crises, climate change, pandemic, terrorism and wars over the last few years as proof of the failure of global governance.) Greece seeks answers over deadliest train tragedyA station master on duty during Greece's deadliest train accident is to testify in the central city of Larissa over the disaster that claimed 38 lives.The 59-year-old will appear before a prosecutor to explain how a passenger train with over 350 people on board was allowed to run on the same line as a freight train for several kilometres.The two trains collided near a tunnel outside Larissa before midnight on Tuesday. Two carriages were crushed and a third caught fire, trapping people inside.And finally…*) Fundraising campaign for quake-hit Türkiye collects nearly $45M in donationsA fundraising campaign for the victims of last month’s devastating earthquakes in Türkiye has received $44.8 million from benefactors on the first day of the event.Famous sports figures such as Kylian Mbappe, Jurgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, Ruud Gullit, Mikel Arteta and Arsene Wenger supported the 'shoulder-to-shoulder’ fundraising campaign, which is set to run until June 15.European Club Association (ECA) and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi also donated over $2 million to Türkiye quake victims.
) Erdogan promises 300,000 homes in quake-hit regionTürkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has pledged to reconstruct and revive the country's quake-hit southern region.Erdogan promised that Türkiye would start the construction of 309,000 houses throughout the earthquake zone in a few months.Other parts of our country that also face the threat of devastating quakes will also be transformed.The powerful twin earthquakes on February 6th have killed over 45,000 people in Türkiye.) Deadly train collision in central GreeceIn central Greece, at least 32 people have been killed and 85 injured after a passenger train collided with a cargo train.Multiple carriages were derailed and at least three burst into flames after the collision. While the fire had been put out, the cause of the accident was not confirmed.The fire brigade said rescue operations were ongoing under very difficult conditions due to the severity of the collision, which happened some 380 kilometres north of Athens.) Russia hammers Ukraine's BakhmutMoscow’s forces have stepped up their weeks-long drive to encircle the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut as the Russian offensive enters its 371st day.Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the intensity of fighting was "only increasing" near the frontline city, which has seen months of heavy battles.) Tinubu wins Nigeria presidential electionNigeria's ruling party candidate Bola Tinubu has won the weekend presidential election after defeating two of his closest rivals.The Independent National Electoral Commission confirmed that Tinubu passed the benchmark of 25 percent of votes in two-thirds of Nigeria's 36 states and capital.Tinubu, candidate for the All Progressives Congress party, won 8.8 million votes while his runner up from opposition Peoples Democratic Party secured 6.9 million votes.*) Croatia's Modric donates World Cup jersey to quake victimsCroatian national football team captain Luka Modric has donated his 2022 World Cup jersey to earthquake victims in Türkiye.All the proceeds from the sale of the number 10 jersey, worn in the 2022 World Cup opener against Morocco, are to go to disaster victims.Addressing the Turkish people in a video message on Twitter, Modric said: Stay strong, we are all with you and we are praying for you.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, February 28th.) Turkish president pledges to preserve fabric of quake-hit historical provincesTürkiye's president has promised not to allow major changes to the fabric of the country's southern provinces amid efforts to rebuild from the devastation caused by two powerful earthquakes earlier this month.Recep Tayyip Erdogan pledged that his government will take the necessary steps to prepare cities for future disasters, saying that construction would not be allowed in areas near fault lines or areas prone to soil liquefaction. The president also ruled out high-rise buildings in old settlements and repeated his promise to mend the damage caused by the earthquakes within the span of a year. ) Egypt showed friendship, fraternity in 'difficult times,' says TürkiyeHailing the solidarity Egypt displayed immediately after Türkiye’s deadly earthquakes, the Turkish foreign minister has said that the two countries were "opening a new chapter in relations."Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry visited the southern quake-hit Adana and neighbouring Mersin provinces on Monday along with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu.Cavusoglu said he and Shoukry addressed ways to further develop ties in a bilateral meeting at Adana's Sakirpasa Airport.) Russia fights to encircle Ukraine's defenders in BakhmutRussian forces have pressed their offensive in eastern Ukraine as they attempt to encircle the small mining city of Bakhmut - a frontline city in the Donetsk province."The enemy is constantly destroying everything that can be used to protect our positions for fortification and defence…," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.Russian President Vladimir Putin identified Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk and Luhansk provinces as a focus from the outset of the conflict. Moscow-backed separatists have fought in the region since 2014. ) West African bloc urges candidates to accept election results in NigeriaElection observers from the Economic Community of West African States have urged candidates in Nigeria’s February 25 elections to respect the outcome of the polls.Results from 11 states released by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Monday show the ruling All Progressives Party leading.The opposition Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party have been calling for the cancellation of the polls, citing reported cases of violence and the late arrival of voting materials.And finally…*) Twitter cuts more staff as Musk woes multiplyReports of more layoffs at Twitter have landed as owner Elon Musk waded into a racism controversy that risked pushing advertisers further away from the struggling platform.Musk called US media "racist" after multiple newspapers announced they would stop publishing a popular comic strip whose creator called Black people a hate group.Like Musk, the creator of the long-running "Dilbert" comic strip, Scott Adams, has increasingly stoked controversy with his views on social issues.The controversy came as the New York Times reported that Twitter had laid off at least 200 employees, or 10 percent of its already decimated workforce.
) UN human rights session opensMore than 100 heads of state and ministers are set to take part in the week-long United Nations Human Rights Council session in Geneva.The session focuses on issues ranging from Russia's alleged war crimes in Ukraine to China's reported mistreatment of its Muslim minority. A UN report published last year found that the detention of Uighurs and other Muslims by China may constitute crimes against humanity. Beijing denies any abuses.) Nigeria awaits first election resultsNigeria has announced initial results on Sunday after a tight election for the presidency of Africa's most populous nation.The election pits former Lagos governor Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress against former vice president Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party.A surprise third-party candidate, Labour Party's Peter Obi, has challenged the APC and PDP dominance with a message of change and an appeal to younger voters.Announcing first results state by state, the Independent National Electoral Commission said APC' s Tinubu easily won southwestern Ekiti state with PDP coming second.) Israeli premier says will not freeze building settlements in West BankIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said there will be no change in the plan to build illegal Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank.Netanyahu’s remarks came following a meeting held in Jordan on Sunday, with the participation of Palestine, Israel, Jordan, the US and Egypt.According to Jordan’s foreign ministry, Israel had committed to stop discussion of any new settlement units for 4 months and to stop authorisation of any military outposts for 6 months.The Israeli premier denied such reports.) British premier, EU chief to meet amid talks on Northern IrelandUK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will hold face-to-face talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as the two sides seek a deal to resolve post-Brexit talks on the Northern Ireland Protocol.In a joint statement, the leaders said they will continue to work towards shared and practical solutions to the longstanding issue.Sunak on Wednesday said any deal needs to ensure sovereignty for Northern Ireland and safeguard its place in the union.*) Football fans shower field with toys for children in quake-hit Türkiye Istanbul football club Besiktas fans have thrown thousands of stuffed toys on the field in a show of solidarity with children who were affected by the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye.Sunday's Besiktas game was paused at 4 minutes 17 seconds after the kick off in memory of the earthquake which struck at 4.17 am local time on February 6, killing at least 44,374 people.The Turkish football team started the campaign, asking fans to bring stuffed toys to be donated to the affected children.
) UN demands Russia withdraw from UkraineThe United Nations has voted overwhelmingly to demand Russia immediately and unconditionally withdraw its troops from Ukraine.The world body called for a "just and lasting" peace as the world marks the one-year anniversary of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.Meanwhile, China has called for peace, saying "dialogue, negotiation are the only viable way to resolve the Ukraine crisis.") Türkiye arrests more contractors as quake toll nears 50,000Some 171 people have been arrested in investigations into destroyed buildings in southeastern Türkiye after February 6 earthquakes.The action comes as the death toll from the disaster in Türkiye crossed the grim mark of 43,500.The twin quakes have left more than 5,800 people dead in Syria. In total, the fatalities from both countries have surpassed 49,300.) Fresh magnitude 5.0 earthquake strikes Türkiye's HatayStaying in Türkiye, a fresh magnitude 5.0 earthquake has hit southern Hatay province.Hatay Governor Rahmi Dogan said a few buildings, which were already damaged from the previous quakes, collapsed.There were no injuries or people trapped in the debris, according to initial reports.) Israel okays 7,000 illegal homes, accused of 'spitting on the face of US'Israel's far-right government has granted approval for over 7,000 new homes in illegal Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. The move defies growing international opposition to construction in the occupied territory of Palestine.The announcement came just days after the UN Security Council passed a statement strongly criticising Israeli illegal settlement construction on occupied Palestinian lands. *) Russia launches rescue ship to space station after leaks Russia has launched a rescue ship for two cosmonauts and a NASA astronaut whose original ride home sprang a dangerous leak while parked at the International Space Station.The new, empty Soyuz capsule should arrive at the orbiting lab on Sunday.The capsule leak in December was blamed on a micrometeorite that punctured an external radiator, draining it of coolant.
) Türkiye starts clearing quake rubble as toll surpasses 43,000Demolition teams have started clearing mounds of rubble from the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Türkiye. This comes as the government and aid groups continue to shelter survivors still shaken from the tremors and several strong aftershocks.As of Thursday morning, the death toll from the disaster that hit Türkiye more than two weeks ago has reached 43,556, according to Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu.The quake also badly affected neighbouring Syria, leaving more than 5,800 dead. In total, the fatalities from both countries have surpassed 49,300.) Türkiye quakes generated up to 210 million tonnes of rubble: UNDPThe United Nations Development Programme has said it plans to support Türkiye in the removal of rubble and the management of the debris from the earthquake's devastation.The UN agency said that the disaster generated between 116 million and 210 million tonnes of rubble.It estimated that an area of at least 30 kilometres by 30 kilometres with debris piled three metres high would be needed to contain it all.) Russia breached Ukraine defences near Kreminna, got pushed backRussian troops trying to break through Ukrainian defences near the eastern town of Kreminna have been pushed back, losing some of their heavy equipment. This is according to the Luhansk regional governor.In recent days, Russia, trying to secure full control of two eastern provinces forming Ukraine's Donbass industrial region, has launched repeated assaults.Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin said Russia would pay more attention to “strengthening” nuclear triad and keep on equipping its armed forces with advanced equipment.) Israeli troops kill 11 Palestinians in Nablus raidIsraeli forces killed 11 Palestinians and wounded scores during a military raid in the occupied West Bank city of Nablus, according to Palestine's Health Ministry and medics.The incursion also left 102 Palestinians wounded, including six in critical condition, the Health Ministry said in a statement.The Israeli military also activated sirens in the country's south amid a salvo of rockets reportedly from northern Gaza. Air defences intercepted five of the rockets, the military said, and one missile landed in an open field.*) Idris Talha Kartav, beloved Turkish celebrity in China, dies in quakesIdris Talha Kartav, a beloved Turkish celebrity in China, is confirmed to be among those who lost their lives after two major earthquakes jolted southern Türkiye.The 31-year-old was in Adiyaman when the earthquakes hit and died after the hotel he was staying in collapsed.His body was reportedly found in the rubble more than 85 hours after the disaster.Kartav, or Tang, rose to fame in China as a regular guest on a popular variety show "Informal Talks" where he would often discuss Türkiye’s culture and history.
) Death toll from Feb 6 Türkiye quakes tops 42,000The death toll from February 6 powerful earthquakes has hit 42,310, a day after another tremor jolted Türkiye's southern Hatay province.A total of 7,242 aftershocks have been recorded since February 6, said the Turkish disaster management agency AFAD.The reported toll in Syria is 5,814, taking the combined death toll in both countries to over 48,000. ) Türkiye mobilises all resources, means for quake-hit provinces: ErdoganTürkiye is mobilising all of its resources and means to carry out accommodation and subsistence services for earthquake victims, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.Within one year, the country will revive the quake-hit villages and cities, and a total of 70,000 houses will be built in the villages, Erdogan said at a briefing.The new buildings will be no taller than three or four stories in addition to the ground floor, he added.) Putin delivers nuclear warning to West over Ukraine, suspends START pactRussian President Vladimir Putin has delivered a warning to the West, suspending a bilateral nuclear arms control treaty and announcing that a new strategic system had been put on combat duty.Cautioning the US that it was stoking the Ukraine war into a global conflict, Putin said Russia was suspending participation in the New START Treaty – the last major arms control treaty between Moscow and Washington.Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed his forces were maintaining their positions on the front line in eastern Ukraine despite considerable pressure from Russia.) Church of Virgin Mary in Hatay suffers further damage in fresh quakesThe Church of the Virgin Mary in Türkiye's Hatay province has suffered extensive new damage following Monday’s latest tremors.The damage to the outer walls of the church from the previous quakes was exacerbated by Monday’s quake and an intensity 5.8 aftershock, both of which were centred in Hatay province. The historic Orthodox church, used by local Turkish citizens of Armenian origin, is reportedly some 700 years old.And finally…*) Türkiye's Hatayspor sporting director Taner Savut found dead under rubbleTurkish football club Atakas Hatayspor has confirmed that their sporting director Taner Savut died in the earthquakes in southern Türkiye. He was 48 years old.Hatayspor expressed "deep sadness" over the death and offered condolences to Savut's family and friends.Savut was trapped alongside Ghanaian football player Christian Atsu, who was also killed in the disaster. Their sports club reported a total of seven deaths from the February 6 quakes.Several Turkish clubs, including Fenerbahce, have offered their condolences over the death of Savut, who played for the Istanbul team from 1997 to 1999.
) New deadly earthquakes hit Türkiye's Hatay provinceAt least three people have been killed and 213 others wounded after another earthquake jolted Türkiye’s southern Hatay province, the country’s interior minister said.Suleyman Soylu said at a news briefing on Monday evening that search and rescue efforts are under way at three sites.Turkish disaster ma nagement agency AFAD said the magnitude 6.4 earthquake took place at around 8:04 pm local time (1704GMT) in Hatay’s Defne district.It was followed by a magnitude 5.8 earthquake three minutes later, with the epicentre in Hatay’s Samandag district.) US to continue its 'full support' after two more quakes hit TürkiyeThe US will continue to offer its full support after two more earthquakes jolted Türkiye’s southernmost province of Hatay, the White House has said.National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan wrote on Twitter that the US is “deeply concerned by the news of earthquakes impacting areas already devastated in Türkiye and Syria.”It came as magnitude 7.7 and 7.6 quakes centred in Kahramanmaras struck 10 other provinces on February 6, killing at least 41,000 people in Türkiye and another 5,800 in Syria.) Erdogan: More than 1.68M quake-affected people provided shelterTürkiye has provided shelter to over 1.68 million people who were affected by the original twin earthquakes that jolted the country's southeast, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced.The construction of nearly 200,000 houses in quake-hit areas is also set to begin in March, Erdogan said during a briefing at the heavily affected Hatay province.The majority of the construction work will be focused on the Hatay, Kahramanmaras, and Malatya provinces, with over 40,000 houses to be built in each province.) Biden announces more military aid for Ukraine during Kiev visitUS President Joe Biden has promised increased arms deliveries for Ukraine during a surprise visit to Kiev.Biden met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shortly after arriving in the country's capital as fighting nears its one year anniversary on Thursday. He then announced an additional half-billion dollars in US assistance, including shells for howitzers, anti-tank missiles, air surveillance radars and other aid but no new advanced weaponry.*) Israeli settlement expansion threatens peace, UNSC warnsThe UN Security Council has unanimously denounced Israeli plans to greatly expand its construction of settlements in the occupied West Bank.The lengthy statement, read aloud in the council chambers, "expresses deep concern and dismay with Israel's announcement” of further construction and expansion of settlements.The statement further condemned all acts of violence against civilians, including those that have targeted Palestinians and Israelis, and called "on all parties to observe calm and restraint.”Last week, Israel's government moved to advance 10,000 new settlement homes in the occupied West Bank, and retroactively legalise nine settler outposts that were previously illegal under Israeli law. The announcement drew stern international backlash.
) Türkiye gets more aid pledges as rescue effort winds downIt’s been two weeks since the February 6 earthquakes struck Türkiye and left in their aftermath massive destruction and heavy death toll.Pledges of financial aid and humanitarian support as well as expressions of solidarity continue to pour into the country and neighbouring Syria.US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged a further $100 million in aid after visiting the disaster-hit region.The additional aid includes $50 million in emergency refugee and migration funds and $50 million in humanitarian assistance, Blinken said.US President Joe Biden had earlier announced $85 million for Türkiye and Syria days after the earthquake hit. The United States has also sent a search and rescue team, medical supplies and equipment.) Over 6,000 aftershocks occurred after February 6 Türkiye quakes – AFADThe number of aftershocks following the two earthquakes has reached over 6,000, an official from the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD) said.The number of aftershocks caused by the two earthquakes has reached 6,040. Among them, 40 had a magnitude between 5 and 6 and one at magnitude 6.6. This is according to Orhan Tatar, the general director of earthquake and risk reduction at AFAD.Tatar also warned that aftershocks “will continue for a longer period of time” and that some may have a magnitude of 5 and above.) Russia hit by 'significant' losses in Ukraine's east – ZelenskyyUkraine's military has been inflicting "extraordinarily significant" losses on Russian forces in the eastern Donbass region, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.Meanwhile, as the fighting rolls into its 362nd day, the Russian military has hit the deployment point of UAVs in western Ukraine, according to the Russian Defence Ministry.And the United States has accused China of considering arming Russia in its war against Ukraine, increasing tensions as the conflict hits its one-year mark this week.) North Korea confirms ballistic missile test, warns of more powerful stepsNorth Korea has confirmed that it carried out a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test.In a statement issued on Sunday, it said the ICBM test was meant to further bolster its “fatal” nuclear attack capacity against its rivals.It also threatened additional powerful steps in response to the planned military training between the United States and South Korea.*) Türkiye's historical monuments largely remain unaffected in quake zoneMany invaluable artefacts in Türkiye, such as those in the renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum, have been mainly left unscathed in two recent earthquakes.Overall, the total number of works assessed in the earthquake region was reported to be 433, with 121 seriously damaged, 66 moderately damaged, and 57 mildly.In addition, Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that the ministry has introduced an emergency disaster prevention plan to help protect Türkiye’s heritage sites.
) The United Nations appeals for $1B aid for TürkiyeThe United Nations has launched an appeal for 1 billion dollars to help victims in Türkiye of last week's devastating earthquakes that killed thousands of people and left millions more in desperate need of aid.UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement that the funds would provide humanitarian relief for three months to 5.2 million people.He said the money would "allow aid organizations to rapidly scale up vital support," including in the areas of food security, protection, education, water and shelter.) Türkiye quakes deadliest natural disaster on alliance territory: NATO chiefThe NATO chief has said that last week's deadly earthquakes in southeastern Türkiye were "the deadliest natural disaster on alliance territory since the foundation of" the security alliance.In a joint press conference on Thursday, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg’s visit is meant to show the alliance’s solidarity with Türkiye after deadly quakes.Cavusoglu said the NATO Council has also decided to send residential containers and tents that are suitable for winter conditions.) Türkiye tightens noose around building contractors over 'earthquake crimes'Turkish authorities have detained more contractors and others allegedly responsible for poorly constructed buildings that collapsed and caused heavy mass casualties in last week’s earthquakes.Three people were detained in Türkiye’s southeastern Kahramanmaras province, which was the epicentre of two powerful earthquakes.Another five contractors were detained in Istanbul under the coordination of the Kahramanmaras Chief Public Prosecutor's Office.) Boy among three survivors pulled alive 260 hours after Türkiye quakesEleven days into the quake, rescuers have pulled a 12-year-old boy and two men out of the rubble.The rescues came more than 260 hours after the earthquakes that have so far left nearly 44,000 people dead in Türkiye and neighbouring Syria.The boy was rescued from the rubble of a building in the central Antakya city of Hatay province at the 260th hour following the first earthquake that hit Türkiye.Two more people were pulled alive from the rubble in the same province but such rescues have become increasingly rare.*) World wrestling body launches campaign for earthquake victims in Türkiye, SyriaUnited World Wrestling has kicked off a campaign to raise money for the earthquake victims in Türkiye and Syria."United World Wrestling has set up a donation drive to support relief efforts for those impacted by the earthquakes," the UWW said in a statement.It added that people can donate via PayPal or a bank account.
) Türkiye medics move to avert spread of diseases amid disasterRescue efforts have been continuing in quake-hit Adiyaman, Hatay, Kahramanmaras and other Turkish provinces on day 11 following last week's twin quakes. The death toll in Türkiye stands at 35,418, making it the deadliest disaster in the country in a century. The toll in Syria has reached 5,814, bringing the total death toll from both countries to 41,232. Meanwhile, Turkish medical personnel are working to avert the spread of diseases in the evacuation centres where tens of thousands of people are seeking shelter.The World Health Organization's representative in Türkiye said WHO is working with Turkish officials to step up monitoring of waterborne diseases, seasonal influenza and Covid-19 among those displaced.) US should prove it did not destroy Nord Stream — RussiaThe United States should prove it was not behind the destruction of the Nord Stream gas pipelines that connected Russia to Europe, the Russian embassy to the US has said. This is according to the TASS news agency as fighting in Ukraine enters its 358th day.Moscow considers the destruction of Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines last September "an act of international terrorism".Russia will not allow the incident to be swept under the rug, the embassy said in a statement.) China's Xi expresses solidarity with Iran amid Western pressure, sanctionsChinese leader Xi Jinping has expressed support for Iran during a visit by its president as Tehran continues to expand relations with Beijing to offset Western sanctions over its nuclear development.The official Chinese account of Xi’s meeting with Ebrahim Raisi gave no indication of whether they also discussed Russia’s attack on Ukraine.Raisi's three-day visit to China is scheduled until Thursday.) New Zealand fears more fatalities after deadly Cyclone GabrielleA cyclone that left a devastating wake of extensive flooding and landslides in New Zealand has claimed at least four lives.Police also have “grave concerns” for other residents who remain unaccounted for, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said.Cyclone Gabrielle struck the country’s north on Monday and has brought more destruction to this nation of five million than any weather event in decades.And finally…*) Turkish TV channels raise billions for quake victims in marathon telecastEight Turkish television channels have raised more than $6 billion during an aid drive for survivors of last week's devastating earthquakes.The channels TRT 1, ATV, FOX, Kanal D, Kanal 7, Show TV, Star TV and TV8 ran a live joint broadcast for the campaign called "Türkiye One Heart."The campaign managed to generate more than $6.1 billion, in other words 115.1 billion Turkish liras. More than nine million SMS text messages of donation were also sent.
) Rising toll makes quake deadliest in Türkiye's modern historyTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that more than 35,000 people have died in Türkiye as a result of last week’s 7.7 magnitude earthquake and powerful aftershocks.This new toll makes the quakes the deadliest such disaster since the founding of the republic 100 years ago.The fatalities already surpassed those recorded from the massive Erzincan earthquake in 1939 that killed around 33,000 people.Erdogan also said 105,505 were injured as a result of the February 6 quake centred around Kahramanmaras province and its aftershocks.) Russia has held at least 6,000 Ukrainian children for 're-education'Russia has held at least 6,000 Ukrainian children in sites across the country, whose primary purpose appears to be political re-education, according to a US-backed report.As part of a "large-scale systematic network”, Yale University researchers identified at least 43 camps and other facilities where Ukrainian children have been held. The children included those with parents or with so-called clear guardianship, those Russia deemed orphans and those whose custody was unclear or uncertain due to the war.In response, Russia's embassy to the United States said Russia accepted children who were forced to flee with their families from shelling in Ukraine.) Palestinian teen killed in Israeli military raid in occupied West BankA Palestinian teen has been killed during an Israeli military raid in a refugee camp in the northern occupied West Bank, Palestinian officials said.Tuesday's death was the latest in an almost year-long surge in Israeli military raids into occupied Palestinian territory along with increasingly discriminatory policies toward Palestinians.The official Palestinian news agency, Wafa, reported that during the raid local residents clashed with Israeli soldiers, who then shot at them. The Palestinian Health Ministry said that Mahmoud al Aydi, 17, died from a bullet wound to the head.) US still in dark over flying objects as it trades balloon claims with ChinaThe White House has responded to growing speculation over the shooting down of unidentified aerial objects in its airspace.It said the targets could be anything from commercial craft to espionage devices.After mounting pressure on President Joe Biden's administration to explain the situation, officials appeared sure of only one thing: It's not aliens.The US says the first of the four objects - a sophisticated, high-altitude balloon shot down on February 4 off the coast of South Carolina - was part of an ongoing, global "fleet" of Chinese espionage balloons.China denied this, calling the huge balloon an errant weather research craft.*) Psychological disorders mount among Türkiye, Syria earthquake survivorsFor earthquake survivors in Türkiye and Syria, escaping the destruction isn't the end of their trauma. The road to full physical and mental recovery is often long, especially for those who've lost family members.Doctors in a Turkish field hospital in the southern city of Iskenderun have said they are treating increasing numbers of patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and panic attacks.They said there are also growing concerns over emerging health issues linked to the cold weather, hygiene and sanitation, and the spread of infectious diseases.
) Search for earthquake survivors enters final hours in TürkiyeThe desperate search for earthquake survivors in Türkiye and Syria continues as rescuers using sniffer dogs and thermal cameras survey the rubble for any sign of life eight days after the disaster. In Türkiye, the death toll stands at over 31,000, while the number of deaths in Syria reached over 4,500, according to the latest figures, bringing the total death toll to over 36,000.The US says Syria’s Assad regime has agreed to open an additional two new crossing points from Türkiye allowing delivery of more aid and equipment to help millions of earthquake victims.Opposition-run rescue group, however, criticised the UN decision, saying it gave the Assad regime “free political gain.”) New Russian offensive underway in Ukraine, says NATOUkraine’s eastern city of Bakhmut faces heavy artillery fire as the NATO chief reports that a major new Russian offensive has begun, days before the first anniversary of Moscow's operation. Ukrainian defenders, who have already held out for months, were defending new ground attacks from Russia, Ukrainian military officials said.Bakhmut is a prime target for Russian President Vladimir Putin, and its capture would give Russia a new foothold in the Donetsk region and a rare victory after months of setbacks.) Iran's President Raisi begins visit to ChinaIranian President Ebrahim Raisi has arrived in China for a three-day visit, flanked by a large delegation including his central bank chief and ministers for trade, the economy and oil.Raisi will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in the capital Beijing, with the pair expected to sign a number of "cooperation documents", Tehran has said.Iran and China are seeking to strengthen their economic cooperation in the coming years as the two countries try to counter the United States. ) UN Security Council open debate on sea-level rise The UN Security Council is set to debate the issue on sea-level rise and its implications for international peace and security.The Maltese Council presidency said the debate aims to “address the risks in the global security architecture and invest in preventive mechanisms”. Malta warns the continued and accelerating sea-level rise could submerge low-lying coastal communities and island states resulting in territorial loss.It adds that sea-level rise can exacerbate instability by increasing tensions over resources such as food and water, among other things.And finally…*) Mexico hails 'heroic' rescue dog that died in TürkiyeMexico has paid tribute to a military rescue dog that died while searching for survivors buried under the rubble of the quake in Türkiye. Defense Minister Luis Cresencio Sandoval paid tribute to the German shepherd named Proteo after announcing his death.Proteo was one of more than a dozen rescue dogs dispatched by Mexico along with 130 military personnel following the disaster that hit Türkiye and Syria last week.
) Grief, hope in Türkiye and Syria as disaster hits one-week markThe death toll in Türkiye and Syria has climbed to over 33,000, a week after two powerful earthquakes, centred in southeastern Türkiye, struck both countries.Hope remains that more survivors could still be found, after rescuers saved a woman from the rubble in Gaziantep 170 hours into search efforts. Late on Sunday, a young boy and a 62-year-old woman were also rescued in Hatay province.In Türkiye, the death toll has reached 29,605, while the number of deaths in Syria reached 3,574, according to the latest figures. ) UN admits aid failure for Syria as quake death toll soarsThe United Nations has decried the failure to ship desperately needed aid to war-torn regions of Syria, while warning the death toll from last week's earthquake is set to rise far higher.A 10-truck UN convoy carrying supplies crossed into northwest Syria via the Bab al Hawa border crossing, according to an AFP correspondent, but the agency's relief chief Martin Griffiths said on Sunday much more was needed for millions whose homes were destroyed.Supplies have been slow to arrive in Syria, where years of conflict have ravaged the healthcare system, and parts of the country remain under the control of rebels battling the regime of President Bashar al Assad, which remains under Western sanctions.) Russia continues to shell Ukraine amid grinding push in eastRussian forces continued to shell Ukrainian cities amid a grinding push to seize more land in the east of the country, but Ukrainian officials say that Moscow is having trouble launching its expected large-scale offensive there.The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group earlier said that his forces are facing fierce resistance around Bakhmut, a city in the eastern Donetsk region.Yevgeny Prigozhin said that it could take two years for Moscow to control the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions, whose capture Moscow has stated as a key goal of the war.) Israel set to legalise nine settlements in occupied West BankIsrael's security cabinet has announced that it would legalise nine Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank following escalating violence in occupied East Jerusalem.Netanyahu announced in a cabinet meeting on Sunday that he wanted to "strengthen settlements", which are illegal under international law.More than 475,000 Israelis reside in settlements in the occupied West Bank, where 2.8 million Palestinians live.*) New Zealand city grinds to halt as deluge from cyclone looms Auckland residents brace for a severe flood from Cyclone Gabrielle, two weeks after a record-breaking storm swamped New Zealand's largest city and killed four people.Much of Auckland ground to a halt as train services were cancelled, libraries and most schools were closed, and authorities asked people to make only essential trips.Air New Zealand cancelled all domestic flights to and from Auckland through Tuesday morning, as well as many international flights.The cyclone, which was moving south, dumped more than 220 millimeters of rain in areas north of Auckland, cutting power to about 58,000 households and forcing many roads to close.
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, February 10th.) Rescue teams race to find Türkiye, Syria quake survivorsRescuers were scouring debris nearly 100 hours after a massive earthquake hit Türkiye and Syria.The earthquakes have killed at least 21,000 people in one of the region's worst disasters of a century.In Türkiye, at least 17,674 people have been killed and 72,879 others injured by two strong earthquakes that hit the country’s southern provinces earlier this week.The quakes also killed at least 3,377 people in neighbouring Syria. ) Don't lose hope, Türkiye will overcome this disaster: President ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has asked his nation not to lose hope as rescuers raced to find more survivors under the rubble following this week’s earthquake.Erdogtan on Tuesday declared a three-month-long state of emergency in the 10 provinces hit by the quake.The Turkish president has tasked all of the ministers in his cabinet and Vice President Fuat Oktay to handle the situation and to establish coordination in the area.) Türkiye teenager who drank 'urine to survive' is rescued after 94 hoursTurkish rescuers have pulled out a teenager alive from the rubble of a building in southern Gaziantep province in a miracle recovery that came 94 hours after the earthquakes.The 17-year-old boy said he had to drink his own "urine to survive."Adnan Muhammet Korkut was rescued late from the debris of an apartment in Sehitkamil district of Gaziantep.) Teary father celebrates daughter's rescue by Türkiye minersIn another such development, Turkish rescuers have pulled out alive a 16-year-old girl, more than 80 hours after the disaster struck.The rescue left her overjoyed father in tears and the grieving nation cheering an agonisingly rare piece of good news after Monday's earthquakes. It took rescue workers five painstaking hours to save her life after neighbours raised the alarm.And finally…*) UN aid convoy reaches northwest Syria days after deadly earthquakesAn aid convoy has reached opposition-held northwestern Syria, the first since a devastating earthquake that has killed thousands.The delivery includes blankets, mattresses, tents and "basic relief items... to cover the needs of at least 500 people," according to The International Organization for Migration.IOM head Antonio Vitorino said his organisation “is working very closely with authorities to support in any way it can” to help quick delivery of aid.
) Erdogan: We will never allow our citizens to remain unshelteredPresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has visited southeastern Türkiye to inspect the areas devastated by the magnitude 7.7 and 7.6 earthquakes that hit the country earlier this week.The visit takes place the day after President Erdogan declared a three-month-long state of emergency in the 10 provinces affected by the quake.The Turkish president has tasked all of the ministers in his cabinet and Vice President Fuat Oktay to handle the situation and to establish coordination in the area.) North Korea displays ICBMs at parade in demonstration of nuclear capabilityNorth Korea has displayed intercontinental ballistic missiles and other weapons during a nighttime military parade, calling them a demonstration of the country's "greatest" nuclear attack capability, the North's state media reported.The parade, attended by leader Kim Jong Un, took place in celebrations for the 75th founding anniversary of North Korea's army, the state news agency KCNA said.Earlier, satellite imagery from the US-based firm Maxar Technologies showed military vehicles and crowds in Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung Square.) Turkish stock exchange temporarily halts trading in wake of deadly quakesTurkish stock exchange Borsa Istanbul has announced that it suspended trading in the wake of two massive earthquakes which hit the country.Borsa Istanbul's BIST 100 index lost more than 19 percent from last week's close due to the selloffs triggered by the earthquakes.BIST 100 index was suspended at 4,186.01 points after it opened at 4,482.11 points.) Biden says US 'not looking for conflict' with ChinaPresident Joe Biden has said the United States is "not looking for conflict" with China despite tensions over the shooting down of what US officials say was a Chinese spy balloon.Biden's comments apparently sought to defuse tensions over the dramatic incident in which a huge Chinese balloon traversed much of the United States before being shot down by a US Air Force jet just off the east coast.Asked if the incident had caused major damage to the relationship with Beijing, Biden said "no."*) One in three schoolchildren does not have access to drinking water: UNThe United Nations warned that one in three children worldwide does not have access to clean drinking water while at school, affecting their health and ability to learn."Globally, almost one in three schools has no drinking water from an improved source," the UN cultural agency UNESCO said in a new report published.Clean drinking water and handwashing facilities are key to protecting children against the likes of Covid-19, parasites, respiratory illnesses and diarrhoea, said school health and nutrition expert Emilie Sidaner, who oversaw the report.
) Fears grow for untold numbers buried by Türkiye earthquakeRescuers are racing against time in Türkiye and war-ravaged Syria two days after two massive 7.7 and 7.6 magnitude earthquakes struck southern Türkiye, killing close to 10,000 in both countries.According to Türkiye’s disaster agency AFAD, at least 6,957 people have been killed in several of the country’s southern provinces.More than 2,500 people have been reported dead in northern Syria according to figures from the regime’s Health Ministry and the White Helmets volunteer organisation. A newborn baby was found alive and pulled from the rubble of a home in northern Syria on Tuesday. In Türkiye, several stories have also emerged of survivors pulled out from the wreckage more than two days after the disaster.Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared a state of emergency that will last for three months in 10 provinces affected by the quake.) Netherlands, Denmark and Germany buy 100 Leopard 1 Tanks for Ukraine The Netherlands, Denmark and Germany are buying 100 Leopard-1A5 battle tanks for Ukraine, the Dutch government has said. The Dutch defense ministry said in a statement the tanks would be purchased "directly from German industry".In an interview on Dutch national broadcaster NOS, Netherlands Defense Minister Kasja Ollongen said the tanks, a slightly older model, are "definitely still useable" for fighting in Ukraine.) US President Biden's makes annual State of the Union speech to CongressUS President Joe Biden sought to rally supporters and challenge his political adversaries in his second State of the Union Address, telling Republicans to join with him as he seeks to unite the country to meet its most pressing challenges.He was quick to spar with the opposition party amid an ongoing impasse with House Republicans over raising the national debt ceiling, accusing the GOP of attempting to hold the nation hostage in order to claim wins on their priorities.Biden also said that Washington would continue to stand behind Kiev in its efforts to push Russia out of its territory.) Investigators may name more suspects in downing of Flight MH17International investigators probing the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over eastern Ukraine are set to present new findings, including possibly naming additional suspects.In November, a Dutch court convicted two former Russian intelligence agents and a Ukrainian separatist leader of murder for helping arrange the Russian missile system that was used to shoot the plane down, killing 298 passengers and crew.The three men, who were tried in absentia, remain at large. Russia has denied any responsibility for downing MH17.*) Nine-year-old Turkish boy donates his pocket money to earthquake victimsBack in Türkiye, a 9-year-old boy who survived an earthquake last year, has donated his pocket money to help relief efforts in the wake of Monday’s devastating earthquakes.Alparslan Efe Demir and his mother visited the Duzce branch of the Turkish Red Crescent and handed over money from his piggy bank for authorities to deliver to those in need.The young boy moved the Red Crescent employees to tears with a letter he wrote for the earthquake survivors.
) Erdogan declares seven-day national mourning in Türkiye over deadly quakesPresident Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced seven days of national mourning in Türkiye after deadly earthquakes shook several provinces, killing at least 3,381 people and injuring 20,426 others. A 7.7 earthquake hit the country's southern Kahramanmaras Province at 4:17 am local time Monday, triggering numerous aftershocks and strongly shaking several neighbouring provinces and a few countries. A second earthquake of 7.6 magnitude also struck Kahramanmaras at 1:24 pm local time.Authorities fear the death toll will keep climbing as thousands of rescuers look for survivors among tangles of metal and concrete.) War-torn Syria grapples with aftermath of deadly quake centred in TürkiyeThe 7.7 magnitude earthquake centred in southern Türkiye sent residents of Damascus and Beirut rushing into the street and was felt as far away as Cairo.The impact was felt hard in northern Syria where people are already suffering under a 12-year civil war and a refugee crisis.At least 1,602 people have been killed and 4,800 others have been wounded according to the regime’s Ministry of Health and the White Helmets rescue organisation.So far, over 4,900 people are confirmed dead in Türkiye and Syria.) Russian reinforcements pour into eastern Ukraine, says governorRussia is pouring reinforcements into eastern Ukraine ahead of a new offensive that could begin next week along a strategic front, a Ukrainian governor said.Ukraine anticipates that the major offensive could be launched for "symbolic" reasons around the February 24 anniversary of the conflict. .Ukraine is itself planning a spring offensive to recapture lost territory, but awaiting delivery of promised longer-range Western missiles and battle tanks. Some analysts say Ukraine is months away from being ready for an offensive. ) France's Macron faces third round of pension reform strikesPresident Emmanuel Macron and his government are bracing for a third wave of nationwide strikes and protests against plans to make the French work longer before retirement, as the bill started its bumpy passage through parliament.The government says people must work two years longer - meaning for most until the age of 64.The French spend the largest number of years in retirement among OECD countries - a deeply cherished benefit that a substantial majority are reluctant to give up, polls show.*) Plane carrying Musharraf's body lands in PakistanPakistan's former president Pervez Musharraf will be buried after a special plane transporting his body from the United Arab Emirates arrived in Karachi on Monday amid tight security.Family members were also on board when the plane landed at the airport in the city where he will be buried Tuesday. Musharraf, who remains Pakistan’s longest-serving president, died in Dubai on Sunday after a prolonged illness.
) Major earthquakes kill hundreds across Turkiye, SyriaA powerful 7.7 earthquake has struck southern Türkiye early Monday, killing at least 912 people and injuring at least 5,385 across several provinces. According to Türkiye’s disaster agency AFAD, the quake was centred in the Pazarcik district of Kahramanmaras Province and was followed by magnitude 6.6 and 6.5 quakes that struck Gaziantep province.The quake was felt hard in Syria where at least 326 people were killed and 1,042 were injured in regime-controlled regions, according to regime media. In rebel-held regions, 147 people were killed and more than 340 were injured, rescue workers said. ) Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf’s passing leaves divided legacyPakistan's former President Pervez Musharraf has passed away at a hospital in Dubai on Sunday after a protracted illness, according to the country’s military and mission in the UAE.Musharraf is remembered for overseeing rapid economic growth and attempting to usher in socially liberal values in the conservative country.But his heavy-handed use of the military to quell dissent as well as his continued backing of the United States in its fight against Al Qaeda and the Afghan Taliban ultimately led to his downfall. Musharraf served as President from 2001 to 2008, when he resigned following a movement led by the ruling coalition government to impeach him. ) Hong Kong’s largest national security trial gets underwayThe trial of 16 Hong Kong activists charged under a national security law imposed by China has begun in a case that some observers say will be a test of the city's judicial independence.The defendants are those who pleaded not guilty out of 47 arrested during a raid in January 2021.The activists were charged with conspiracy to commit subversion for participating in an unofficial primary election organised by anti-Beijing activists in 2020.) Israeli approves new illegal Jewish settlement near GazaThe Israeli government has approved the construction of a new settlement near the border with the besieged Gaza.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his ministry will officially start budgeting the planning of the settlement.Construction and Housing Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf said the new settlement will house nearly 500 families.*) Italy sounds alarm on massive computer hacking attackThousands of computer servers around the world have been targeted by a ransomware hacking attack, Italy's National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN) said.The hacking attack on Sunday sought to exploit a software vulnerability, ACN director general Roberto Baldoni said, adding it was on a massive scale.Italy's ANSA news agency, citing the ACN, reported that servers had been compromised in other European countries such as France and Finland as well as the United States and Canada.Dozens of Italian organisations were likely to have been affected and many more had been warned to take action to avoid being locked out of their systems.
) Putin warns West over arms deliveries to UkraineRussian President Vladimir Putin has vowed a decisive response to any country threatening Russia and lashed out against Germany for promising tanks for Kiev.He was speaking at a ceremony commemorating the Red Army's victory against Nazi troops 80 years ago in Stalingrad, as the city was then known.His statement came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that the Kremlin was consolidating its forces for a fresh offensive.) Norway withdraws permission for Quran burning after Türkiye's warningNorway has cancelled its permission to burn the Quran after Ankara warned against it.On Thursday, Türkiye summoned Norwegian Ambassador in Ankara, Erling Skjonsberg, over plans to desecrate the holy Quran in the Scandinavian country on Friday.Skjonsberg was told that Ankara "strongly condemns Norway's approach not to prevent the planned provocative act, which is clearly a hate crime.) Sudan to move forward with Israel 'normalisation'Sudan says it has agreed to "move forward" towards normalising relations with Israel during talks with Israeli foreign minister Eli Cohen in Khartoum.Thursday’s statement from Sudan’s foreign ministry came following a meeting between Cohen and his Sudanese counterpart Ali al-Sadiq.The pair discussed "ways to establish fruitful relations" between the two countries and "prospects of cooperation" in areas including security and energy.) House Republicans vote to remove 1st Muslim woman from committeeUS House of Representatives Republicans have ousted Democrat Ilhan Omar from a high-profile committee over remarks widely condemned as antisemitic."I am a Muslim, I'm an immigrant and, interestingly, I'm from Africa," the 40-year-old Minnesota progressive said in a defiant floor speech ahead of her removal from the Foreign Affairs Committee.The deeply divided House voted 218 to 211 along party lines to remove Omar from the Foreign Affairs Committee with Republicans citing the 2019 remarks for which she later apologised.And finally…*) Nick Kyrgios pleads guilty to assaulting ex-girlfriendTennis star Nick Kyrgios has pleaded guilty to assaulting a former girlfriend, but avoided a conviction for what the magistrate called a "single act of stupidity".The Canberra magistrate dismissed the assault charge against the 27-year-old Australian player.Appearing in a Canberra court, the Wimbledon finalist admitted assaulting then-girlfriend Chiara Passari on January 10, 2021, by pushing her to the ground after a heated argument.
) Erdogan vows to advance Türkiye, relays concern over anti-Muslim rhetoricTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says his administration is preparing Türkiye to become a global power with massive investments in infrastructure.President Erdogan says the “Turkish Century” will see Türkiye becoming one of the most prominent countries in the world with the power and experience it has gained in the last period.Commenting on the hateful act of Quran burning in Sweden, the Turkish president says Stockholm should not expect Türkiye’s support for its NATO membership bid after the incident.) Beirut blast investigation takes tumultuous turn as systemic cracks surfaceIt’s been two and a half years of fighting and disappointment for the families of those who were killed in 2020’s August 4 blast in Beirut’s port.The investigation has yielded little in the way of answers or accountability.Instead, there has been a change in judges, 18 lawsuits against investigators, four suspensions, and a gunfight on the streets. ) Israel’s military says ‘currently striking’ besieged GazaIsrael says it conducted air strikes on the central areas of besieged Gaza hours after intercepting a rocket fired from Palestine's territory.So far, there hasn’t been any immediate reports of casualties on either side.Since the start of 2023, the Israel-Palestine conflict has claimed the lives of at least 35 Palestinians, whereas at least six Israelis have reportedly been killed.) Zelenskyy says eastern Ukraine situation getting tougherUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the situation on the front lines in eastern Ukraine is becoming tougher as Russian forces step up its offensive.Russia is gaining momentum on the battlefield, announcing advances north and south of the city of Bakhmut, its main target for months.Zelenskyy says the Russians are trying to make gains that they could show on the first anniversary of the conflict on February 24.And finally…*) Australia to replace Queen Elizabeth's image from banknotesAustralia’s central bank announces it will erase the late British monarch from its banknotes.The late Queen Elizabeth the second’s image on the $5 note will be replaced with a design honouring Indigenous culture.The $5 bill is Australia's only bank note to feature the monarch.
) US to lose neutrality if OKs Greece's F35s, rejects Türkiye's F16s: KalinThe US will lose its "neutrality" in NATO if the Congress approves the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Greece and opposes Türkiye's F-16 purchase. This is what Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin has said. Kalin also said Türkiye will not accept any preconditions, such as ratification of Sweden and Finland's NATO bid, for the F-16 programme.Ankara has maintained the jets would strengthen not only Türkiye, but also NATO.) Netanyahu says Israel is considering weapons aid to UkraineIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he is considering military aid to Ukraine and even willing to serve as a mediator, after the US called for Tel Aviv’s more active role.For now, Netanyahu made no firm commitments to Ukraine.Israel has preserved a relationship with Russia, which controls the skies in neighbouring Syria and has turned a blind eye to Tel Aviv's strikes on targets of Iran.) US-India alliance look to challenge ChinaThe US has formally launched a partnership with India that President Joe Biden hopes will help the two countries compete against China. The White House is looking to engage with New Delhi for cooperation in areas of military equipment, semiconductors and artificial intelligence.The US and India have emerged as natural allies to counter China’s rising influence, not only in the region but also globally.) The case of fake medicines in Africa's Sahel regionUp to 50 percent of medicines in West Africa are substandard or fake, the UN has warned in a report on the illicit trade in medical products. The global body said it can lead to antimicrobial resistance or toxic contaminants while undermining trust in healthcare systems.Across sub-Saharan Africa, up to $44.7 million per year is spent on treating people who have used counterfeit or substandard malaria treatments.And finally…*) Palestinians protest Israeli plans to demolish Bedouin homesDozens of Palestinians and foreign activists are staging a sit-in to protest Israeli plans to demolish the Khan al Ahmar Bedouin community in occupied East Jerusalem.A representative of the Khan al Ahmar residents tells Anadolu Agency their protest is aimed at confronting Israeli plans to forcibly displace the residents of the community.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right government had a Wednesday deadline to present its demolition plan to the Supreme Court.
) Finland would not allow burning of Quran: policeAs per local media, police in Finland have said the public burning copies of Islam's holy book, the Quran, would not be allowed in the country.The National Police Board said burning a copy of the Quran would likely violate religious peace, which is a punishable offence in Finland.The public burning or other desecration of a book held sacred by a religious community would be met with police intervention, the police further said.) Scores killed, dozens injured in Pakistan mosque suicide attackA suicide bomber struck a crowded mosque inside a police compound in the Pakistani city of Peshawar, killing at least 80 people and wounding dozens others.Overnight, at least nine more bodies were recovered as rescuers sifted through the rubble of the mosque's collapsed wall and roof.Many of the injured were taken to the Lady Reading Hospital after a bomber detonated his suicide vest as worshipers, including many policemen, were praying inside the mosque.) Biden says 'no' to US sending F-16 jets to UkraineUS President Joe Biden said he will not be sending F-16 fighter jets to help Ukraine against Russia."No," he said when asked by reporters at the White House if he was in favour of sending the jets, which Ukraine's leaders have said are at the top of their latest weapons wish list.Biden said he will be visiting Poland, the key hub in the nearly year-long, massive Western effort to support Ukraine against Russian attack.) Top NATO negotiator says Sweden's share of PKK terror funding larger than Finland'sSweden has a larger share of PKK terror group financing as compared to Finland, Stockholm's chief NATO negotiator said.Speaking to the state-owned radio, Oscar Stenstrom said: "Unlike Finland, we have a larger share of funding for the PKK from Sweden."Both countries are bidding to join the NATO alliance, but are faced with opposition from Türkiye due to their ties and tolerance toward the PKK terrorist organisation and its offshoots.And finally…*) Israeli-Palestinian rising violence a test for US as Blinken visits regionAn alarming spike in Israeli military violence, and response from the Palestinian side, is testing the Biden administration. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken sets off to Israel and the occupied West Bank this week.Blinken’s high-wire diplomatic act begins after he completes a brief visit to Egypt that has been almost entirely overshadowed by the security situation in Israel and the occupied West Bank.US officials say the main theme of Blinken’s conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas will be “de-escalation.”
) Deadly Russian shelling hit Ukraine's Kherson, Kharkiv citiesRussian shelling of Ukraine's southern city of Kherson has left at least three people dead, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.Zelenskyy said in his evening address that the Russian army has been shelling Kherson “all day" and that "there are reports of six wounded and three dead."Meanwhile, in eastern Kharkiv, the second-largest city in Ukraine, the governor of the regional military administration said a Russian strike hit "a four-storey residential building".He said an elderly woman died from the attack and the building was partially destroyed.) Dozens killed as militant launches attack in eastern DRCA wave of attacks on villages in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo attributed to Daesh-affiliated ADF militants have killed at least 15 people.This is according to a local official who said there were seven fatalities in Manyala and "at least eight" in Ofay following “simultaneous attacks”. He said the final toll might be higher.Sunday's killings come a week after a similar attack left at least 23 people dead.) Israeli-Palestinian cauldron tests US as Blinken visitsAn alarming spike in Israeli-Palestinian tensions is testing the Biden administration as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken sets out to visit Israel and the occupied West Bank.Blinken’s trip begins on Monday after he completes a brief visit to Egypt.US officials say the main theme of Blinken’s conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas will be “de-escalation.” Yet Blinken will arrive in Israel just a day after Netanyahu’s Security Cabinet announced a series of punitive measures against Palestinians following deadly raids in the occupied West Bank.) Low turnout hobbles Tunisia’s second round of parliamentary pollsProvisional figures showed the turnout in the second round of Tunisia's parliamentary election on Sunday was 11.3 percent. This is according to the head of the electoral commission who announced the figure at a news conference. A turnout of 11.2 percent had been registered in the first round of the election in December. A total of 262 candidates are competing for 131 seats from Tunisia's 161-member legislature, which was largely stripped of its powers following a series of measures by President Kais Saied in 2021.And finally…*) Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open title, ties Nadal’s 22nd grand slam titleNovak Djokovic has resumed his reign over Melbourne Park by winning a record-extending 10th Australian Open title. Djokovic swept to victory at Rod Laver Arena to reclaim the world number one ranking on Sunday.In a rematch of the 2021 French Open decider, he again denied Greece's trailblazer Stefanos Tsitsipas a maiden major title.Djokovic's triumph was the ultimate redemption a year after his deportation from Australia on the eve of the Grand Slam due to his lack of Covid-19 vaccination. With the win, he also ties Rafael Nadal’s 22 grand slam titles.
) Blinken to visit Mideast as Palestine mourns killings by IsraelTop American diplomat Antony Blinken will travel to Egypt, Israel and Palestine this weekend, the State Department has announced, as the US expressed alarm about escalating violence after Israel's single deadliest operation in the occupied West Bank in 20 years.Blinken's visit to Israel has been planned for weeks, but the Israeli raid on a West Bank refugee camp earlier on Thursday — that killed nine people, including a 61-year-old woman — will likely dominate his talks in Jerusalem and Ramallah.The Israeli military also fatally shot a 22-year-old Palestinian later in the day.) Peru army, police to unblock roads controlled by protestersThe Peruvian government has said that police and soldiers would soon move to dismantle roadblocks on the nation's highways erected by protesters who have demanded for weeks the resignation of President Dina Boluarte.The move announced by the defence and interior ministries on Thursday comes as shortages of basic goods including food and fuel have escalated in the South American country, with freight deliveries to the south compromised.) Biden calls Republicans' economic plans dangerous for US economyUS President Joe Biden has said he will veto any Republican legislation that threatens to sow "chaos" in the country's economy."I will not let it happen. Not on my watch. I will veto everything," he said in a speech laying out his economic vision at a Virginia pipe fitters union hall.Biden said congressional Republicans' push to block expansion of the nation's borrowing limit, threatening a US debt default, would spark "chaos" and "pain" for the world's number one economy.) Ukraine calls for banning Djokovic's father for flanking pro-Russia fans Ukraine's ambassador to Australia has urged tennis officials to ban Novak Djokovic's father from the Australian Open after he was filmed posing with fans brandishing Russian flags. Myroshnychenko also called on Djokovic, who is preparing to face Tommy Paul in the semi-finals of the tournament, to personally apologise and to clarify his stance on the Russian invasion. And finally…*) New excavation unearths tombs and sarcophagus in EgyptEgypt has unveiled dozens of new archaeological discoveries, including two ancient tombs at a Pharaonic necropolis just outside of the capital Cairo.The artefacts, unearthed during a year-long excavation, were found beneath an ancient stone enclosure near the Saqqara pyramids, the excavation team said.One of the uncovered tombs belonged to a priest from the fifth dynasty known as Khnumdjedef, while the other belonged to an official named Meri, who held the title of “the keeper of the secrets,” the team said.
) Ukraine seeks long-range missiles as fighting rages in Bakhmut Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he wanted the West to send long-range missiles and jets to his war-torn country to help repel Russian troops."I've spoken with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg today," Zelenskyy said after the United States and Germany announced they would send heavy tanks to Ukraine."We must also open deliveries of long-range missiles to Ukraine, it is important — we must expand our cooperation in artillery," Zelenskyy said, also adding that Ukraine needed jets. "This is a dream. And this is a task.") Thousands join 'Invasion Day' protests on Australia Day holidayThousands of Australians have marked the country's national holiday with rallies in support of the nation's Indigenous people, many of whom describe the anniversary of the day a British fleet sailed into Sydney Harbour as "Invasion Day".In Sydney, the capital of New South Wales — Australia's most populous state — social media showed a large crowd gathered at an "Invasion Day" rally on Thursday in the central business district, where some people carried Aboriginal flags and an Indigenous smoking ceremony took place.) More potential unmarked graves discovered at Canada schoolAn investigative team has found 66 more potential unmarked graves at a former residential school in British Columbia, the Williams Lake First Nation [WLFN] said at a press conference.The announcement of the discovery on Wednesday brings the number to 159 found at the former St Joseph's Mission Residential School — 93 were uncovered in May 2021.Run by the Catholic Oblates order, thousands of Indigenous children were forced to attend the Mission operated between 1886 and 1981) India's Gautam Adani accused of pulling 'largest con in corporate history' Asia's richest man Gautam Adani has seen his net worth drop by nearly $11 billion after a US investment firm accused him of "brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud".Adani, 60, is the world's third-richest person, with an estimated fortune of around $120 billion and interests ranging from Australian coal mines to India's busiest ports.But the magnate lost billions after allegations by short-selling firm Hindenburg Research that caused shares in its companies to plunge as investors rushed to sell shares in his group of companies.And finally…*) Bollywood star 'King Khan' returns to big screen amid Hindu far-right ireBollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan has returned to the silver screen for the first time in four years with a big-budget action movie that has sparked ire from Hindu far-right groups."Pathaan", which hit cinemas on Wednesday, a day ahead of India's Republic Day celebrations, also features Bollywood heartthrob Deepika Padukone and action hero John Abraham — as well as songs and special effects galore.The success of "Pathaan", where Khan plays a spy fighting a militant outfit, is crucial for the Indian film industry that has seen a spate of high-profile flops since the Covid-19 pandemic began, as Netflix and Amazon have provided varied and much cheaper content at home.
) US possible tank deliveries to Ukraine disturbs RussiaThe Biden administration could approve sending M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine to fortify Kiev's firepower against Russia, according to US officials.Moscow called the possible approval of the tanks a "blatant provocation" against Russia."If the United States decides to supply tanks, then justifying such a step with arguments about 'defensive weapons' will definitely not work", Russia's ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov said.) New Zealand has new prime ministerChris Hipkins has been sworn in as New Zealand's 41st prime minister, following the unexpected resignation of Jacinda Ardern last week.Hipkins has promised a back-to-basics approach focusing on the economy and what he described as the "pandemic of inflation”.He will have less than nine months before contesting a tough general election, with opinion polls indicating his Labour Party is trailing its conservative opposition.) Bulgaria announces snap general elections Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has said he would set April 2 as the date for the country's parliamentary election, a fifth within two years.The president will dissolve the parliament after polls in last October failed to produce a working government.Bulgaria has been governed by caretaker governments, appointed by Radev for much of the past two years in the absence of a stable elected coalition.) NASA, Pentagon to develop nuclear-powered rocket for Mars NASA is partnering with the Pentagon's research agency, DARPA, to develop a nuclear-powered rocket engine in preparation for sending astronauts to Mars."With the help of this new technology, astronauts could journey to and from deep space faster than ever — a major capability to prepare for crewed missions to Mars," NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said.NASA conducted its last nuclear thermal rocket engine tests more than 50 years ago, but the program was abandoned due to budget cuts and Cold War tensions.And finally…*) Türkiye suspends talks with Sweden, Finland over NATO accession Türkiye has postponed a trilateral meeting with Sweden and Finland over their NATO bid scheduled for February, according to Turkish diplomatic sources.The decision was made after Sweden allowed Denmark’s far-right Stram Kurs (Hard Line) Party's anti-Muslim leader Rasmus Paludan to burn a copy of Quran in front of the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm.The sources did not specify when the meeting would take place.
) Constant Russian shelling and attacks in UkraineRussian forces have been shelling and attacking Ukrainian positions on the front lines of the conflict around the clock according to the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.In his nightly video message, Zelenskyy said the battle for the Donbass region and for the south goes on.He added that Ukraine is aware of how Russia is massing its forces and knows how to respond.) Seven dead in new California shootingAt least seven people have been killed in a mass shooting at two locations in the coastal northern California city of Half Moon Bay.The suspect was arrested after he drove to a police parking lot apparently to hand himself in. He is cooperating with investigators, according to the county sheriff.The shootings came after a gunman opened fire and killed 11 people at a dance club in Los Angeles over the weekend.) UN seeking to reverse ban on women workers in AfghanistanThe UN humanitarian chief has arrived in Afghanistan in a bid to reverse the Taliban administration’s ban on Afghan women and girls going to schools and working for humanitarian organisations.Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths was joined by two major international aid organisations and the UN children’s agency, UNICEF.UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said last month’s ban on Afghan women working for NGOs is sowing fears that the already dire humanitarian situation will get even worse.) Without respect for Islam, Sweden gets no NATO boost: TürkiyeTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned that Sweden should not expect any good news from Türkiye on its NATO bid “if it does not show respect to Islam.”The remarks came after Rasmus Paludan, the leader of Denmark’s far-right Stram Kurs Party burned a copy of the Quran outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm.The anti-Muslim act was done under police protection and with permission from the Swedish government.*) Dutch leader of far-right group desecrates copy of QuranThe Dutch leader of a far-right group known as Patriotic Europeans Against the Islamisation of the West has desecrated the Quran in the Netherlands.In a video posted on social media, anti-Muslim provocateur Edwin Wagensveld tore apart a copy of Islam's holy book, then set it on fire.Wagensveld, who claimed he had permission from the city of The Hague for the destruction of the Quran, was arrested twice before for his anti-Muslim activities.
) Suspect in California mass shooting found deadThe suspect of a mass shooting in California, which left 10 people dead during the Lunar New Year, has died apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.The Los Angeles Sherrif said the gunman, named as 72-year-old Huu Can Tran, committed suicide when police approached a wanted van.Investigations are ongoing as homicide detectives are working on determining the motive behind the attack.) Netanyahu removes top minister over Supreme Court rulingIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has removed a top minister from office following a Supreme Court ruling.Aryeh Deri, leader of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish party Shas, was appointed health and interior minister last month.But the Supreme Court ruled that Netanyahu must remove Deri from his position due to a tax evasion conviction last year.) Hundreds protest outside Swedish Consulate in Istanbul over Quran burningThe Quran-burning incident in Sweden has ignited a second day of protests in Türkiye, reflecting a growing global condemnation against anti-Muslim hatred.Some 250 people gathered outside the Swedish Consulate in Istanbul, holding flags and banners that said: We condemn Sweden’s state-supported Islamophobia.On Saturday, the Swedish government allowed Rasmus Paludan, a convicted racist, to burn a copy of Islam’s holy book outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.) Canada to pay more than $2B to Indigenous survivors of abuseCanada will pay hundreds of Indigenous communities 2.1 billion dollars in compensation for nearly a century of abuse suffered by thousands of children in residential schools.The compensation will be used to revitalise Indigenous education, culture, and language and support the survivors, many of whom were physically and sexually abused.The settlement with the Canadian government was the result of a class-action lawsuit brought by 324 Indigenous communities.*) Ronaldo scores for Al Nassr in the first game after Saudi Arabia moveCristiano Ronaldo has made a winning start to life in the Saudi Pro League as he led Al Nassr to a 1-0 victory over Ettifaq in his first match after Saudi Arabia move.The 37-year-old moved to the team for deals totalling more than 400 million dollars, becoming the best paid football player in history.
) Zelenskyy expects powerful Western military supportPresident Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that Ukraine is waiting for a "decision from one European capital that will activate the prepared chains of cooperation on tanks."Zelenskyy thanked Estonia for the large package of military assistance and Sweden for its package which included howitzers and ammunition.Zelenskyy also thanked Denmark for the NLAW, Archers and APCs.) Palestine tells Biden adviser to rein in Israel 'before it's too late'Palestine's President Mahmoud Abbas meets US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, appealing to the Biden administration to stop the Israeli government from pressing ahead with escalatory measures against the Palestinians.Abbas urged the United States to intervene before it is too late to stop the unilateral measures by the new Israeli coalition's policies. ) Türkiye expects US to extradite FETO terrorists: CavusogluTurkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu says that he hopes Washington will extradite members of the Fetullah Terrorist Organization based in the US.Speaking with members of the Turkish-American community and Ahiska Turks in Houston, Texas, Cavusoglu stressed that FETO members are "intensely" present in the city.Cavusoglu said that FETO's educational institutions were shut down in many countries and their members were handed over to Türkiye.) At least 145 people feared dead in DRC boat tragedyAt least 145 passengers are missing and feared dead after a motorised boat overloaded with goods and animals sank at night on a river in northwestern Democratic Republic of Congo.About 55 people survived the disaster, officials said.The boat was travelling to the neighbouring Republic of Congo when it capsized in the Lulonga River.And finally…*) Kashmir, Chad, Venezuela activists win Martin Ennals AwardCampaigners from disputed Kashmir region, Chad and Venezuela win the Martin Ennals Award, one of the world's most prestigious human rights prizes.Khurram Parvez, a prominent rights activist in restive India-administered Kashmir, Delphine Djiraibe, one of Chad's first women lawyers and Feliciano Reyna, a rights activist in Venezuela bagged the award, the jury announced.The award ceremony, managed by Martin Ennals Foundation, will take place in Geneva on February 16, the organisers said.
) Türkiye tells US to delink F-16 jet sale from Nordic NATO bidsTurkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said that the United States must approve a 20 billion dollar sale of F-16 fighter jets to Türkiye.Cavusoglu said after a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the important thing on the sale of F-16 jets is whether the Biden administration will be determined.The Turkish minister said the Biden administration should not waste the deal because of objection by some senators and should also convey to Congress that NATO bids by Finland and Sweden are not linked with F-16 sale. ) Huge US weapons package for UkraineThe US is finalising a massive package of military aid for Ukraine that US officials say is likely to total as much as 2.6 billion dollars.It's expected to include for the first time nearly 100 Stryker combat vehicles and at least 50 Bradley armoured vehicles to allow Ukrainian forces to move more quickly and securely on the front lines in the war with Russia.The officials said the numbers could change as the Biden administration goes through final deliberations on the package.) New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern to quit as PM next monthNew Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to stand down no later than early February and will not seek reelection, Ardern has said in a televised statement.Fighting back tears, she said the general election will take place on October 14 and her last day as prime minister will be on February 7.Ardern faced a tough election campaign this year.) France braces for nationwide strike against Macron's pension reformTrains will grind to a halt in France, classrooms will be shut, and businesses will be disrupted as workers walk off their jobs in an attempt to derail a planned pension reform.The nationwide day of strikes and protests is a major test for President Emmanuel Macron, but also for the unions.Opinion polls show French voters overwhelmingly reject a reform that the government says is vital to ensure the pension system does not go bust. And finally…*) Spanish great-grandmother tipped as 'world's oldest person' at 115A Spanish great-grandmother who was born in the United States has likely become the world's oldest living person at 115, a Guinness World Records consultant said.Maria Branyas Morera is believed to have assumed the title following the death of French nun Lucile Randon aged 118, senior consultant for gerontology Robert D. Young said.Guinness World Records must still make the official decision after carrying out document checks and interviewing Branyas Morera's family.
) Ukraine welcomes Dutch Patriot help as fighting rages in eastThe training of Ukrainian officers to operate the Patriot advanced long-range air defence system will last 10 weeks, Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said.The United States, Germany and the Netherlands have pledged to send Patriot missile systems to Ukraine to repel a barrage of Russian missile and drone attacks.Reznikov said that the training is an obligation undertaken by the US. ) Pentagon extols alliance with Türkiye ahead of possible F-16 dealAhead of a possible F-16 deal, the Pentagon said that Türkiye has an important partnership with the US on the global stage and Washington views Ankara as "an important ally". Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Pat Ryder said "the United States and Türkiye share an alliance and they're an important partner, not only in the region but around the world.") England nurses launch fresh strikes over payNurses in England have begun two days of strikes over pay, as officials warned of disruption for thousands of patients in the UK's state-run health service.Strikes beginning from Wednesday come after nurses held an unprecedented strike last month, joining a wave of industrial action by public sector workers.The main nursing union accuses the government of failing to negotiate seriously on improving their pay deal for the current year. ) DRC's Tshisekedi accuses M23 rebels of faking agreed pullbackThe M23 rebel group has not fully withdrawn from areas it seized in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, President Felix Tshisekedi said, accusing the militia of faking an agreed pullback of its forces.He said that despite international pressure, they pretended to move but they have not, adding that they are redeploying elsewhere, and staying in the towns that they have captured. *) Türkiye's Sengun breaks Shaq's NBA centre record Türkiye's Alperen Sengun has made NBA history by becoming the youngest centre to record at least 30 points, 15 rebounds and five assists in a game for the Houston Rockets against the Los Angeles Lakers.Tuesday's game ended 140-132 in favour of the Lakers, with the 20-year-old Sengun scoring a career-high 33 points on 14 of 17 shooting, adding 15 rebounds and six assists.Sengun broke the three-decade record of Shaquille O’Neal, who scored 30 points at the age of 21 during the 1992-93 season.
) UN: Russian attack in Dnipro possible war crimeUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned Saturday’s Russian missile strike in Ukraine’s Dnipro, which left at least 40 dead, as a possible war crime.According to his spokesperson, Guterres said the strike was another example of a suspected violation of the laws of war.The strike marked one of the deadliest attacks in Ukraine since the start of the Russian offensive last February.) German defence minister resignsGermany’s Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht has announced her resignation just days ahead of a crucial meeting of defence ministers from Ukraine's allies.After taking office as defence chief in December 2021, Lambrecht came under months of heavy criticism over Berlin's stuttering response to the war in Ukraine.Her resignation came as Berlin was once again under intense pressure to provide battle tanks to Kiev.) Somalia recaptures key port from Al ShababSomalia's armed forces have reportedly captured a strategic coastal town that the Al Shabab terror group had held for more than a decade.The defence minister said that the capture of the port town of Harardhere as well as the nearby town of Galcad means Al Shabaab is overpowered and gone.He added that the remaining towns were expected to be liberated from the terror group soon.) 1% rich swallows two-thirds of global wealthThe world’s richest one percent have reaped over two-thirds of the 42 trillion dollars in new wealth created since 2020, according to an Oxfam report.The amount is nearly twice as much money as the bottom 99 percent of the world’s population, it said in its report titled ‘Survival of the Richest’.It added that for the first time in 25 years, extreme wealth and extreme poverty have expanded together.And finally…*) Nadal wins first round at Australian OpenTennis star Rafael Nadal has won the battle of the southpaws against Jack Draper in Round 1 of the Australian Open men's singles.The reigning men's singles champion Nadal is a 22-time Grand Slam singles title winner.The 36-year-old Spanish legend bagged the Australian Open twice, in 2009 and 2022.
) Death toll rises in Russian missile strikeThe death toll from Saturday’s Russian missile strike on an apartment building in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro has risen to at least 35, the governor said.Two children were among the dead, and the fate of another 35 residents of the building is unknown with rescue efforts continuing.39 people have been rescued from the rubble, and 75 people, including 14 children, were injured in the attack.) Dozens dead after passenger plane crashes in NepalAt least 68 people have been killed after a plane with 72 on board crashed into a gorge while landing at a newly-opened airport in Nepal.The twin-engine ATR 72 aircraft was carrying 68 passengers, including 15 foreign nationals, and four crew members, according to Nepal's Civil Aviation Authority.While reports of the death toll varied, the aviation authority said 68 people had died in the crash, marking Nepal’s deadliest airplane accident in thirty years.) There is "no room" in New York for migrants: mayorIn an unprecedented move, the mayor of New York has travelled to the Mexican border city of El Paso and declared that there is no room in the city for migrants.The move by Eric Adams, a Democrat, came after he said the migrant influx into New York could cost America's most populous city as much as 2 billion dollars.In recent months, busloads of migrants seeking sanctuary in the US have been sent to New York and other Democrat-run cities by Republican states like Florida and Texas.) Death toll from bomb blast in DR Congo risesAt least 17 people have been killed in a suspected terrorist bomb attack during Sunday services in a church in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.A government spokesperson said the attack was visibly perpetrated by terrorists from the Allied Democratic Forces, a Ugandan group aligned with the Daesh terrorist group.The statement said 17 people had died, while 20 sustained severe injuries and were admitted to health centers.And finally…*) Barca beat Madrid, win Spanish Super CupBarcelona have convincingly beaten Real Madrid 3-1 in Saudi Arabia to win the Spanish Super Cup.Barcelona were dominant in every aspect of the game and took advantage of three mistakes by Real Madrid to score.Barcelona star Gavi, who won the Golden Boy award in 2022, was the game's outstanding performer.
) Ukraine says its forces hold out against Russia in SoledarUkrainian forces in the eastern city of Soledar are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on Russian forces, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.Two Ukrainian units in Soledar, which Zelenskyy said "are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy.”The mercenary group Wagner, run by an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, claims to have taken Soledar after intense fighting that it said had left the town strewn with Ukrainian dead.) Black man Keenan Anderson 'Tased to death' by US policeKeenan Anderson, cousin of a Black Lives Matter [BLM] co-founder has died in the hospital, hours after police in Los Angeles repeatedly restrained and tasered him with a stun gun.Anderson went into cardiac arrest four hours later and died at a hospital in Santa Monica.Los Angeles Police Department released body-cam footage of the incident on January 3rd, showing Anderson pleading for help while police officers are seen restraining him and tasering him multiple times.According to Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore, Anderson attempted to flee after a car crash and police used force to restrain him.) Senior Türkiye official condemns Sweden over provocative PKK/YPG eventTürkiye urges Sweden to cut its support to terrorists and their sympathisers in the Nordic country immediately, after loyalists of the PKK/YPG terror group organised a provocative event in capital Stockholm. Turkish Communications Director Fahrettin Altun accused Stockholm of going back on its past promises to Ankara. Altun said, “We are not interested in words but rather in action. We anticipate the commitments made in the Madrid trilateral memorandum to be fulfilled." ) Israeli troops kill three Palestinians in occupied West Bank raidsIsraeli forces killed three Palestinians in two separate incidents in the occupied West Bank, Palestine's Health Ministry said, as Israeli troops reported opening fire on fleeing suspects and "being pelted with rocks" during raids.The ministry said that Habib Kamil and Abdul-hadi Nazal were killed by Israeli live bullets in the town of Qabatiya near the West Bank city of Jenin.The Israeli military said that during a raid to arrest a suspect in Qabatiya, "the wanted suspect and an additional suspect fled the scene."And finally…*) Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis, dies aged 54Singer Lisa Marie Presley, the only daughter of the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," Elvis Presley, died at the age of 54, her mother said.Lisa Marie Presley suffered cardiac arrest in her home in the Los Angeles suburb of Calabasas, according to entertainment website TMZ. She attended the Golden Globes awards show in Beverly Hills earlier this week, where actor Austin Butler won the best actor award for portraying her father in the film "Elvis."
) Brazil swears in Sonia Guajajara as Indigenous Peoples MinisterInfluential indigenous rights activist and lawmaker Sonia Guajajara, has been sworn in to lead Brazil's Ministry of Indigenous Peoples.Guajajara was sworn in on Wednesday at the Planalto Palace in capital Brasilia in presence of President Lula da Silva, lawmakers and representatives from Brazil's Black and Indigenous movements.She also called for "effective Indigenous citizenship" that she said cannot take place without the demarcation of territories, environmental and territorial protections, continued access to free quality public education and vast coverage to comprehensive health care.) Fate of Ukraine's Soledar uncertain as Wagner claims controlRussia names a new commander for its offensive on Ukraine while mercenary Wagner Group says its capture of salt mining town Soledar in eastern Ukraine was complete, as fighting enters its 322nd day.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that fighting was still raging in a key eastern frontline city that the Russian mercenary group earlier said it controlled.And in his daily address, Zelenskyy insisted the front was "holding".) Greece's case against migrant rescue volunteers 'farcical': rights groupsA group of 24 volunteers who participated in migrant rescue operations on an eastern Greek island have gone on trial in a smuggling-related case that has been widely criticised by human rights groups.Greek police said that the volunteers had collected information about refugee flows and provided assistance to organised trafficking groups.Human Rights Watch, however, said that the charges are based on a police report, which contains “blatant factual errors”.The case was initially set to go ahead in 2021 but was postponed over procedural issues.) Palestinian dead from injuries by Israeli army fire in occupied West BankA Palestinian has died of injuries sustained after being wounded by Israeli army bullets in the occupied West Bank, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.21-year-old Ahmad Abu Junaid was wounded during an operation by the Israeli army in the Balata refugee camp in Nablus, where troops had surrounded a house, witnesses say.In a related development, the NGO Palestinian Prisoners Society said "the Israeli army arrested 15 Palestinians from several provinces in the West Bank."And finally…*) Nearly 160 organisations urge Biden to shut infamous Guantanamo prisonMore than 150 organisations have sent a letter to US President Joe Biden urging him to "prioritise closing the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba."The letter was signed by 159 organisations from the US and other countries who called themselves a "diverse group of non-governmental organisations" working on issues including international human rights, immigrants' rights, racial justice and combating anti-Muslim discrimination.The detention camp has held roughly 780 detainees since it was opened, most of them without charge or trial, with many said to have gone through unspeakable horrors.
) Tigray rebel forces start turning over heavy weapons to Ethiopia militaryTigray rebel forces, who fought a two-year war against Ethiopia's federal government, have begun handing over heavy weaponry to the national army as part of an African Union-led peace process.Handover in the town of Agulae was overseen by a monitoring team comprising members of the two sides and a regional body, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development.At the ceremony, a Tigray rebel forces' representative said the start of the disarmament would play a major role in restoring peace. ) Ukraine's Soledar town falls to Wagner group — Russian mediaThe head of Russia's mercenary group Wagner said his forces had taken control of the eastern Ukrainian mining town of Soledar but that fighting continued, Russian news agencies reported. Ukraine had said earlier that its forces were still holding out despite a Russian onslaught.The Wagner head said in a statement that its units took control of the entire territory of Soledar and that a cauldron has been formed in the centre of the city. ) Azerbaijan demands France apologise over 'slander' during war with ArmeniaAzerbaijan has demanded an apology from France over "slander" during the 2020 Karabakh war with Armenia.President Ilham Aliyev said, "During the conflict, France openly accused us, slandered us. I demanded an apology from them. They slandered us without even any evidence," Underlining that while there could be several reasons for France's anti-Azerbaijan stance, Aliyev said that France wanted Karabakh to remain at the centre of an unresolved and "frozen" conflict.) Türkiye to host Russian, Ukrainian rights commissionersRussian and Ukrainian commissioners for human rights will hold a meeting in Türkiye on January 12-14, a Russian official said.Tatyana Moskalkova, Russia's commissioner for human rights, told reporters in Moscow that she will visit Türkiye for a forum.She said scores of experts from many nations will attend the forum, adding that they are planning to meet the Ukrainian side. *) Steven Spielberg wins big as Golden Globes make comebackSteven Spielberg claimed top honors including best drama at the Golden Globes on Tuesday for his deeply personal film "The Fabelmans," as Hollywood's A-list stars flocked to the first major awards show of the year despite a series of scandals swirling around its organizers.Spielberg, who also took home the award for best director, thanked his family including his late mother, who he said would be "up there kvelling about this right now.""The Fabelmans" covers the troubled marriage of Spielberg's parents, anti-Semitic bullying, and the director's early efforts making zero-budget movies with his teenage friends.
) Mass arrests continue as Brazil leaders condemn ‘terrorist acts’Brazilian security forces have cleared protest camps and arrested 1,500 people as President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva condemned "acts of terrorism" after a mob stormed government buildings. About 3,000 supporters of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro had set up tents, which were used as a base for protesters who ran riot inside the presidential palace, Congress and Supreme Court for around four hours on Sunday.Lula, who previously led Brazil from 2003 to 2010, met with the leaders of both houses of Congress and the chief justice of the Supreme Court, and joined them in condemning what many called the South American country's version of the US Capitol riots in Washington two years ago.) Iranian President Raisi’s first official visit to Türkiye being 'finalised'Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi is slated to visit Türkiye as well as Syria, a foreign ministry spokesperson said, adding that the plans are being finalised.Addressing a weekly press conference in Tehran, Nasser Kanaani said the plans for Raisi’s first visit to Türkiye since taking the office two years ago are currently “being finalised.”It comes after Turkish presidential spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin was quoted as saying last week that the Iranian president will visit Ankara “in the next few weeks.”) Russia launches criminal probes against prominent Kremlin criticsRussian authorities announced parallel criminal probes against a famous actor critical of the war in Ukraine and a philanthropist who supports the Russian opposition. Russia's Investigative Committee said in a statement that its chief Alexander Bastrykin ordered the launch of a criminal case against Russian film and theatre actor Artur Smolyaninov.According to the statement, Smolyaninov "made a series of statements directed against Russia in an interview to a Western media outlet." ) UK's first-ever rocket mission ends in failureAn attempt to launch the first rocket into orbit from UK soil has ended in failure, with scientists reporting an "anomaly" as it neared its goal.A Virgin Orbit Boeing 747 carrying the 70-foot rocket took off from a spaceport in Cornwall, southwest England, on Monday.The rocket then detached from the aircraft and ignited as planned at a height of 35,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean to the south of Ireland after around two hours. *) French federation boss apologises for 'clumsy' Zidane commentsFrench football boss Noel Le Graet has apologised for what he dubbed his "clumsy remarks" about Zinedine Zidane's potential interest in coaching the France national team.Le Graet had quipped dismissively in an interview on French radio that he "wouldn't even have taken his call on the phone" when asked whether Zidane had rung him to express an interest in taking over as coach from Didier Deschamps.That drew criticism from France and Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe, who called Le Graet's comments "disrespectful".
) Brazil’s Lula vows to punish those responsible for riots in capitalBrazilian authorities have begun investigating the attack on democratic institutions in the capital city in a failed attempt by former president Jair Bolsonaro's supporters to overthrow President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s week-old government.Hundreds of Bolsonaro supporters have stormed into Congress, trashed the Supreme Court and climbed the ramp to the presidential palace.The incident, aimed at overthrowing current President Lula, recalled the US Capitol riots on January 6th 2021 by supporters of then-president Donald Trump.Lula decreed federal intervention of public security in the capital and promised exemplary punishment for the leaders of the assault that was aimed at provoking a military coup.) Israel's Ben-Gvir orders removal of Palestinian flagsIsrael's new far-right Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has instructed police to remove Palestinian flags from public spaces.Ben-Gvir, who heads an ultranationalist party in Benjamin Netanyahu's new government, said that waving the Palestinian flag is an act in support of "terrorism".Israeli law doesn’t outlaw Palestinian flags but police and soldiers have the right to remove them in cases where they deem there is a threat to public order.) China conducts military exercises near TaiwanChina's military has carried out large-scale combat strike drills near Taiwan, sending warplanes and navy vessels toward the self-ruled island it claims sovereignty over.Taiwan's defence ministry reported that in 24 hours, China's military flew 57 warplanes and four ships toward Taiwan in a move that severely disrupted peace and stability.Twenty-eight of those planes crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial boundary that both sides had previously stood by.The Chinese military said their “primary target was to practice land strikes and sea assaults.) Nearly 200 Rohingya refugees arrive in IndonesiaA wooden boat carrying nearly 200 Rohingya refugees, a majority of them women and children, has landed on Indonesia's western coast.The passengers, who were 69 men, 75 women and 40 children, are generally healthy, but there is one pregnant woman and four sick people, said the local police chief.Thousands of the Rohingya, heavily persecuted in Myanmar, risk their lives each year on dangerous sea journeys in an attempt to escape to Malaysia or Indonesia.Four vessels carrying Rohingya refugees have already landed in Indonesia in November and December last year, carrying a total of more than 400 passengers.*) Novak Djokovic wins Adelaide titleTennis star Novak Djokovic has won the Adelaide International by beating unseeded rival Sebastian Korda despite being troubled by a hamstring injury after the semifinal.The victory saw the Serbian player snatch his second Adelaide title 16 years after his first win in 2007 at the age of 19.The champion of the women’s tournament was Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka, who captured her 11th WTA Tour title with a win over Linda Noskova in the Adelaide International 1 final.
) Ukraine dismisses Putin's ceasefire as 'hypocrisy'President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia was seeking a truce to use as a cover to stop Ukrainian advances in the eastern Donbass region. Zelenskyy added that the Russians want to stop “the advances of our boys in Donbass” and bring in more men and equipment. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak wrote on Twitter that Russia "must leave the occupied territories - only then will it have a 'temporary truce',") Türkiye, US jointly freeze assets of Daesh affiliatesTürkiye and the United States decided to jointly freeze the assets of Daesh terrorist organisation affiliates, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said.The ministry said in a statement, “Türkiye and the US decided to take a joint action on freezing the assets of 5 individuals and 2 legal persons who have been identified to finance the Daesh terrorist organization.”The statement said Ankara would "continue to take effective steps on countering terrorism financing and cooperate with its international partners on the issue.") Israel gets UNSC flak after firebrand minister storms Al Aqsa compoundPalestine and many Muslim and non-Muslim supporters have sharply disagreed with Israel at an emergency UN Security Council meeting over the visit of a firebrand Israeli Cabinet minister to Al Aqsa compound.The council members voiced concern and stressed the need to maintain a status quo at the Al Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem.Palestine's UN envoy Riyad Mansour pushed for the Security Council to take action — a move that was unlikely given the United States traditionally shields Israel. ) Prince Harry reveals he killed 25 people in Afghanistan as Apache pilotBritain's Prince Harry revealed in an upcoming book of his memoirs that he killed 25 people as an Apache helicopter pilot during a tour in Afghanistan.Prince Harry's claim in the book, titled Spare, which will be available at bookstores in the UK next week, came as the book's Spanish version was accidentally put on sale in Spain.The Duke of Sussex, who stepped down from his royal duties, flew during the invasion of Afghanistan and his missions resulted in "the taking of human lives."And finally…*) Mexico nabs drug lord Ovidio 'The Mouse' ahead of Biden tourMexican security forces captured the son of jailed drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, scoring a high-profile win in the fight against powerful cartels.Ovidio Guzman, nicknamed "El Raton" [The Mouse], was caught in the northwestern city of Culiacan and flown to Mexico City on a military plane.The Defence Minister said the arrest was the result of six months of intelligence work tracking down the 32-year-old, who has allegedly helped to run his father's operations.
) UNSC to discuss troublemaker Israel minister's visit to Al Aqsa MosqueThe UN Security Council will meet to discuss the controversial visit to occupied East Jerusalem's Al Aqsa Mosque compound by a far-right Israeli minister. The 15-member council will convene at 3:00 pm at the United Nations headquarters in New York following a request by the United Arab Emirates and China. There have been fears the visit by Israel's new national security minister, firebrand Itamar Ben-Gvir, could raise tensions in Palestinian territories.) Ukraine seeks heavy weapons as US predicts intense fight in eastUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked French President Emmanuel Macron for promising light AMX-10 RC armoured combat vehicles, saying it showed the need for other allies to provide heavier weapons.Zelenskyy said, "This is something that sends a clear signal to all our partners. There is no rational reason why Ukraine has not yet been supplied with Western tanks."Western allies moved toward supplying armoured battle vehicles to Ukraine but not the heavier tanks it has requested to fight Russia.) Colombia suspends truce with ELN armed groupThe Colombian government said it was suspending a ceasefire it had announced with the National Liberation Army armed group, which denied agreeing to any such truce.The reversal dampened hopes for an imminent end to decades of violence that have continued to plague the South American country.Colombian President Gustavo Petro declared earlier that a temporary truce had been agreed upon with the country's five largest armed groups from January 1 to June 30.) US: Family of 8, including children, found shot dead in Utah homeEight people, including five children, were found dead from gunshot wounds in a southern Utah home, US authorities said.They were found when police did a welfare check at the residence, according to a news release from city officials in Enoch.It doesn't provide any information about what happened or the motive. And finally…*) Pakistan's Senate nominates Türkiye's Erdogan for Nobel Peace PrizePakistani lawmakers have nominated Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the Nobel Peace Prize for his "efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis."The Senate said it has officially registered the nomination in favour of the Turkish leader.Ankara has yet to issue a statement regarding the nomination.
) Calls for UNSC meeting over Al Aqsa MosqueThe United Arab Emirates and China have called for a UN Security Council meeting after Israel’s national security minister entered the Al Aqsa complex in occupied East Jerusalem.Itamar Ben-Gvir’s move drew fierce condemnation across the world as the move was seen as a provocation that could exacerbate tensions between Israelis and Palestinians.Sitting on a site sacred to Muslims, Jews and Christians, Al Aqsa is a symbol of Palestinian resistance and a primary flashpoint in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.Calm is upheld in the site by a sensitive status quo agreement that is regularly bypassed by Israelis visiting the mosque and praying there despite not being allowed to.) Germany delays emissions goalsShort-term measures to ensure energy security following Russia's Ukraine offensive have left Germany behind schedule in its bid to become carbon-neutral by 2045.Data from a climate think tank showed that Germany's carbon dioxide emissions held steady in 2022 as higher use of oil and coal nullified the reductions in emissions through energy savings.Germany’s greenhouse gas emissions were around 761 million tonnes last year, missing a target of 756 million tonnes, despite the country’s renewable energy boom.) McCarthy's bid for House speaker to continueKevin McCarthy’s bid to become the US House speaker has continued despite losing in multiple rounds of voting that threw the new GOP majority into chaos.He won no more than 203 votes in three rounds of voting, losing as many as 20 Republicans from his slim 222-seat majority.But McCarthy said Trump wanted him to stay in the race and told him to bring an end to the House Republican chaos and pull the party together.) Rail workers continue to strike in UKUK rail workers with the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers will continue to strike in an ongoing dispute over pay.After a break on Thursday, another 48-hour strike will be staged on Friday and Saturday. The demonstrations have crippled rail services and resulted in travel chaos in the UK, which is in the grip of its worst run of worker unrest since the 1980s.As surging inflation follows more than 10 years of stagnant wage growth, many workers who have been unable to make ends meet were prompted to strike.And finally…*) Marvel's Hawkeye posts first selfie after accidentActor Jeremy Renner, who played Hawkeye in Marvel's "Avengers", has posted a selfie from his hospital bed after he suffered a traumatic injury while ploughing snow on New Year's Day.Alongside the selfie on Instagram, showing the actor looking bruised with oxygen tubes in his nose, Renner thanked his fans for their well wishes.The actor had "suffered blunt chest trauma and orthopaedic injuries" in the accident according to his publicist.
) Israeli security minister visits Al Aqsa Mosque, draws Palestinian flakIsrael's far-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has visited the compound that houses the Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, a flashpoint holy site sacred to both Jews and Muslims, Israeli media reported.Israel's opposition leader and former prime minister Yair Lapid had warned that such a visit by Ben-Gvir would spark violence.Palestine's Foreign Ministry condemned the visit, calling it an "unprecedented provocation." Earlier Palestinian group Hamas, for its part, said it would hold Israel responsible for any consequences of Ben-Gvir’s visit.) Türkiye's exports hit all-time high of $254.2B in 2022: ErdoganTürkiye's exports hit an all-time high of $254.2 billion in 2022, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced, citing preliminary data.Despite global challenges, the figure increased by 12.9 percent from a year earlier, Erdogan told a news conference in Istanbul."Our goal is to ensure that Türkiye takes its place among the top 10 exporting countries in the world," he said.) Sweden’s largest wolf cull in modern times ‘disastrous’ for speciesSweden has launched the biggest wolf slaughter in modern times as nature agencies warned that it could severely harm the population.The government has given permission to hunters to kill 75 out of the 460 wolves currently roaming the country in an attempt to reduce their numbers.But wildlife organisations argue that Sweden’s wolf population is relatively low compared to Italy, for instance, where there are more than 3,000.) Russia plans protracted drone campaign to 'exhaust' UkraineRussia is planning a protracted campaign of attacks with drones to "exhaust" Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says.In a video address, Zelenskyy say they have information that Russia is planning a protracted attack using Iranian Shahed drones. He said Moscow wants to exhaust people of Ukraine, its anti-aircraft defences and energy.Ukraine, he says, has to "act and do everything so that the terrorists' fail in their aim.” And finally…*) Bills safety Hamlin in critical condition after collapsing, game postponedBuffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin was in critical condition after being given CPR and taken from the field in an ambulance National Football League game against Cincinnati.The 24-year-old briefly got to his feet after making a tackle on the Bengals' Tee Higgins but then fell on his back.The game was halted as medical staff quickly attended to him while players from both teams took a knee. The NFL later announced the game had been postponed.
) Lula sworn in as Brazil's president amid tight securityLuiz Inacio Lula da Silva has been inaugurated for a third term as Brazil's president, in a ceremony snubbed by outgoing leader Jair Bolsonaro.Da Silva vowed to "rebuild the country, with the people," promising to fight to improve life for poor Brazilians, work toward racial and gender equality, and achieve zero deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, in an inaugural speech on Sunday. In a sign of the scars that remain from Lula's brutal election showdown with ex-army captain Bolsonaro in October, who left the country prior to the inauguration, security was exceptionally tight at the pomp-filled ceremony in Brasilia.) Gun attack on Mexican jail leaves 14 deadGunmen have attacked a prison in the northern Mexican city of Ciudad Juarez, leaving 14 people dead and allowing 24 inmates to escape, official say.An unknown number of gunmen aboard armoured vehicles took part in the attack on Sunday, and the dead included 10 prison guards and security agents, it said in a statement.) Colombia, Venezuela open key bridge as diplomatic ties reestablishedColombia and Venezuela have opened a key bridge linking the countries that had been closed for almost seven years amid political tensions, launching an era of improved relations under Colombia’s new leftist president.Delegations led by Colombian trade minister German Umana and the governor of Venezuela's Tachira state, Freddy Bernal, met in the middle of the “Tienditas” bridge linking Tachira and Colombia’s Norte de Santander state for the opening ceremony.) Evacuation warnings after California stormEvacuation warnings were in place in rural Northern California on New Year's Day after a powerful storm brought drenching rain or heavy snowfall to much of the state, breaching levees, snarling traffic and closing major highways.Major flooding occurred in agricultural areas about 20 miles (32 kilometres) south of Sacramento, where rivers swelled beyond their banks and inundated dozens of cars along State Route 99.Emergency crews rescued motorists on New Year's Eve into Sunday morning and the highway remained closed.And finally…*) Final farewell for Pele, Brazil's football 'King'Brazilians bid a final farewell this week to football giant Pele, starting Monday with a 24-hour public wake at the stadium of his long-time team, Santos.The oceanside home of the team nicknamed "Peixe" -- "fish" in Portuguese -- is expecting a huge influx of fans looking to honour the "King" of football, who died aged 82 on Thursday after a long battle with cancer.After that, a procession will be held through the streets of Santos, a port city about 75 kilometers from the state capital Sao Paulo.
) Brazil football legend Pele dies at age 82Brazilian football icon Pele, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, has died at the age of 82.Pele's daughter, Kely Nascimento, announced the football star's passing in an Instagram post. It triggered a wave of tributes from the sports world and beyond.He had received regular medical treatment since a tumour was removed from his colon in September last year. According to doctors, Pele's cancer advanced in recent weeks and he required care related to renal and cardiac dysfunction. ) Netanyahu returns as prime minister of hard-line Israeli governmentBenjamin Netanyahu has been sworn in as Israel's prime minister. He returns to his old position under the most right-wing and religiously conservative government in the country's history. Netanyahu took the oath of office moments after parliament passed a vote of confidence in his new government.This marks his sixth term in office, continuing his more than decade-long dominance over Israeli politics.) Kosovo reopens major border crossing with Serbia as standoff easesKosovo has reopened its biggest border crossing with Serbia hours after Serb protesters in the north promised to remove roadblocks.Barricades were dismantled on the Serbian side of the Merdare border point and Kosovo announced the opening of the crossing.This comes a day after the European Union and the US urged both parties to ease a simmering crisis.Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic previously announced the removal of the barricades during his meeting with Kosovo Serb representatives near the border.) Death toll climbs as blizzard-battered US areas dig outThe death toll from a fierce winter storm that gripped much of the United States over Christmas has risen to at least 61, officials said.Erie County officials said two more deaths had been reported in the western New York region that bore the brunt of the historic storm, bringing the total to 39.Erie County includes the snow-battered city of Buffalo, where most of the deaths occurred.And finally…*) US agency projects global population at 7.9 billion on New Year’s DayThe world population is projected to be 7.9 billion people on New Year's Day 2023, the US Census Bureau has said.With 73.7 million people added since New Year's Day 2022, the new count marks a 0.9 percent increase in the world population over the past year.During January 2023, 4.3 births and two deaths are expected worldwide every second, the Census Bureau said.
) Thousands of flights cancelled as US digs out from deadly superstormThousands of travellers are still stranded at airports across the US due to flight cancellations and delays caused by the deadly winter storm. Around 28-hundred flights were cancelled on Wednesday while almost half that number were delayed. Most of those cancellations were from Southwest Airlines. The number of deaths attributed to the storm, dubbed the “blizzard of the century”, has risen to at least 56.) Live blog: Ukraine sees 'difficult year ahead' as Russia rejects peace planMoscow says that no “peace plan” can exist for Ukraine if it does not accept its annexation of Luhansk and Donetsk in the east, and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south.Ukraine has been pushing a 10-point peace plan that envisages Russia fully respecting Ukraine's territorial integrity and pulling out all its troops. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a video address that he saw “a difficult year ahead”.) Global alarm grows as Covid infections surge in ChinaThe United States has become the latest country to impose restrictions on visitors from China, requiring negative Covid tests for all travellers from the mainland.The decision was a response to Beijing’s decision to end mandatory quarantine on arrival, prompting many Chinese citizens to make plans to travel abroad.Hospitals across China have been overwhelmed by an explosion of Covid cases following Beijing's decision to lift strict rules that had largely kept the virus at bay but tanked its economy and sparked widespread protests.) Turkish, Russian, Syrian defence ministers discuss Syria crisis in MoscowTurkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar has met the Syrian regime’s defence minister in Moscow for the first time in more than a decade, in a meeting mediated by Russia’s Defence Ministry. They discussed the war in Syria, the refugee crisis and efforts to fight all terrorist groups in the country.The Turkish Defence Ministry said the meeting, the first in a series of high-level negotiations, was constructive, and further talks for the stability and security of Syria and the wider region would continue. And finally…*) Twitter outages hit thousands of users worldwideTwitter users around the world have reported errors accessing it for several hours in one of the biggest outages since Elon Musk bought the platform.Twitter has been riven by chaos since the multi-billionaire completed his 44 billion-dollar acquisition in October and quickly moved to cut costs.Thousands of employees -- including engineers -- have since been fired or quit, raising concerns about Twitter's ability to quickly fix outages and technical problems.
) US blizzard death toll rises to 50 The number of deaths attributed to the winter storm in the United States has risen to at least 50.With another fatality in western New York's Erie County, the epicentre of the crisis, the mayor of the county's biggest city warned that police expect the number to rise.The storm, dubbed the “blizzard of the century”, forced the cancellation of almost 20 thousand US flights in recent days, including nearly 4,700 on Tuesday.) Russia to ban oil exports to countries with price capRussia has banned oil sales to countries and companies that comply with a price cap agreed upon by Western countries in response to its offensive in Ukraine.Moscow said the ban may be lifted, however, in individual cases on the basis of a special decision from Russian President Vladimir Putin.The price cap agreed by the EU, G7 and Australia seeks to restrict Russia's revenue while making sure Moscow keeps supplying the global market.) Ethnic fighting kills 56 in South SudanEthnic clashes have killed 56 people during four days of fighting in South Sudan's eastern Jonglei state.A government official said that armed youth from the Nuer community began attacking the Murle community on December 24, and the fighting is still ongoing.Abraham Kelan said 51 of those killed were Nuer attackers, with only five Murle defenders killed.) Israeli envoy assumes duties in TürkiyeTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has received the credentials of Israel's new ambassador to Türkiye, marking the first appointment in Ankara by Tel Aviv since 2018.Irit Lillian, whose appointment was announced in September, had served as Tel Aviv's charge d'affaires in Ankara for the past two years.In August, Türkiye and Israel agreed to restore diplomatic ties and reappoint ambassadors and consuls general after a four-year hiatus.*) Djokovic arrives in AustraliaSerbian tennis player Novak Djokovic has arrived in Australia nearly a year after he was deported from the country for not being vaccinated against Covid-19.Djokovic landed in Adelaide where he is due to play in the Adelaide International, ahead of his bid for a 10th men's singles title at next month's Australian Open, In November, Australia granted Djokovic a visa to travel to the Grand Slam event, saying it revoked the decision to cancel his visa after considering all relevant factors.
) Fighting continues for control of Donbass region - ZelenskyyFighting for control of the Donbass region in Ukraine continues, according to the country’s president Volodymyr Zelenskyy.In an address to the nation, he said the “situation in Donbass is difficult” and that Bakhmut, Kreminna and other areas now require “maximum strength and concentration.”Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov gave Ukraine an ultimatum to fulfil Moscow’s proposals or its army would decide the issue.The proposals include surrendering territory Russia controls.) Serbian army ordered for combat readiness: defence ministerTensions between Kosovo and Serbia continue to escalate.Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has ordered combat readiness for the armed forces and security services at the highest level.This is according to Defense Minister Milos Vucevic, who said the aim is to protect the territorial integrity of Serbia.Interior Minister Bratislav Gasic said Vucic also ordered security forces within the ministry to be at full combat readiness.) Türkiye’s gas reserves in Black Sea now totalled $1T: ErdoganTürkiye’s president has announced the discovery of an additional 58 billion cubic metres of natural gas in the Black Sea.Following a Cabinet meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Türkiye’s natural gas reserve in the Black Sea has now risen to 710 billion cubic metres – a market value of one trillion dollars.Erdogan said the newly discovered Caycuma-1 field will be connected to the Sakarya field and from there to the national grid.Last month, he said Türkiye is on track for the Sakarya gas field to go online in 2023.) Dozens dead in major US winter stormEmergency crews in New York have been scrambling to rescue marooned residents from what authorities called the “blizzard of the century”.A relentless storm left at least 47 people dead across nine states and is causing US Christmas travel chaos.With more snow in the forecast and most of New York’s Buffalo city impassable, officials are warning residents to bunker down and stay in place.*) Heba Saadia: First Palestinian referee at FIFA Women’s World CupWorld football authority FIFA has chosen, for the first time, a female Palestinian referee to officiate at the upcoming Women’s World Cup matches.The official Palestinian News & Information Agency reported that Heba Saadia will make the calls at the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.The ninth Women’s World Cup is the first to be co-organised by two nations and the first to include 32 countries.
) China deploys tens of warplanes, ships toward Taiwan in weekend war drillsChina’s military has sent 71 planes and seven ships toward Taiwan in a 24-hour display of force directed at the self-ruled island. That’s according to Taiwan’s defence ministry which said the move came after China expressed anger at Taiwan-related provisions in a US annual defence spending bill.China’s military has often used large military exercises as a demonstration of force in response to US government actions in support of Taiwan. ) Ukrainian drone downed in Russian air base, deaths reported Russian air defence troops have downed a Ukrainian drone as it approached an air base in southern Russia.As a result of the fall of the wreckage of the drone, three Russian technical servicemen who were at the airfield were killed, according to TASS news agency.It was the second attack on the Engels base this month. Engels, in the southern Saratov region, lies more than 600 kilometres from Ukraine.) Savage US blizzard leaves more than 30 dead, cuts powerA brutal winter storm has brought Christmas Day danger and misery to millions of Americans.A crisis situation unfolded in Buffalo, in western New York, where a blizzard left the city marooned, with emergency services unable to reach the worst-hit areas.Thirty-two weather-related deaths have been confirmed across nine states, including at least 13 in Buffalo, with officials warning the number is sure to rise.) Erdogan: Black Sea grain deal result of Türkiye's mediationTürkiye’s mediator role between Russia and Ukraine has helped achieve the Black Sea grain deal, the country's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.He said while the West “only made provocations" in the war, Türkiye assumed a mediator role and began to operate the Black Sea grain corridor.At an event in Türkiye's eastern Erzurum province, he also said that Türkiye will produce flour from Russian grain for free and send it in collaboration with Russia and the UN to African countries in need.*) 'Avatar' sequel rules North American box office for second week"Avatar: The Way of Water" has sailed to the top of the box office in its second weekend. Studios estimate it will bring in a strong $56 million in North America.James Cameron's digital extravaganza for 20th Century Studios has made $253.7 million domestically in its first 10 days of release.This is compared to $212.7 million in the same stretch for 2009's first “Avatar,” which would go on to become the highest-grossing film of all time.
) US January 6 committee unveils report, says Trump engaged in ‘conspiracy’The US House committee probing the January 6th Capitol Hill riots has released its final report after an 18-month investigation into the insurrection two years ago.The report asserts that former President Donald Trump criminally engaged in a “multi-part conspiracy” to overturn the lawful results of the 2020 presidential election and failed to act to stop his supporters from attacking the Capitol.The panel voted unanimously to adopt the report and refer Trump to the Department of Justice.) Mali armed groups withdraw from 2015 peace dealA coalition of armed groups in Mali have pulled out of long-running peace talks based on a major 2015 agreement that restored peace after the groups sought to break away from the country. The armed groups said the decision was due to a lack of political will on the part of the country’s military government. The coalition said in a statement that it would only come back to the table if talks were held in a neutral country under international mediation.) Afghan women protest in Kabul against Taliban's university banA small group of Afghan women have staged a defiant protest in Kabul against a Taliban order banning them from universities.Around two dozen women could be seen raising their hands and chanting slogans as they marched through the streets.The ban announced earlier this week is the latest restriction on human rights in Afghanistan ordered by the Taliban since their return to power in August last year.) England reports almost a hundred deaths due to scarlet feverEngland has reported nearly a hundred deaths, including those of 21 children, from scarlet fever and invasive strep A infections.The British government said last week that it was enacting protocols to ease shortages of penicillin medicines used to treat strep A infections.The National Health Service has been under intense pressure this winter, with thousands of ambulance workers in England and Wales walking out over pay on Wednesday, a day after nurses went on strike.*) Black Italian rugby player blasts racism after rotten banana Christmas giftA Black Italian rugby player has accused his teammates of racism after they gave him a rotten banana as a Christmas gift.Cherif Traore said he would no longer stay silent about the racism he has suffered on the club team, and said he was speaking up to ensure such incidents didn’t happen again.There have been numerous incidents of Black athletes in Italy suffering racist abuse, including in football and volleyball teams.
) Live blog: US sending Patriots to Ukraine under $1.85B military aid packageUS President Joe Biden has committed $1.85 billion in military aid to Ukraine including, for the first time, the Patriot missile defence system.The news came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Washington for his first known trip out of his country since Russia started its assault in February.The Patriot would be the most advanced surface-to-air missile system the West has provided to Ukraine to help repel Russian aerial attacks.) Israel's Netanyahu says he formed new coalition governmentIsrael's Prime Minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that he has formed a new coalition, setting the stage for him to return to power as the head of the country's most right wing government ever. Netanyahu intends to give cabinet positions to hardline figures, including extremist politician Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has a long record of violent anti-Arab rhetoric and behaviour. The announcement comes after weeks of difficult negotiations with his political partners. ) Desperate migrants throng US-Mexico border amid asylum limboThe US Supreme Court has temporarily blocked an order that would lift pandemic-era restrictions on asylum seekers.The policy, called Title 42, was due to expire on December 21st, and allows authorities to send migrants of certain nationalities to Mexico without a chance to seek asylum. Immigration advocates have said the restrictions go against international obligations to people fleeing persecution, and that the pretext is outdated as coronavirus treatments improve. ) Chicken tikka masala inventor dies at 77A chef from Scotland, who claims to have invented the curry dish chicken tikka masala, has died at the age of 77.Ahmed Aslam Ali invented the dish in the 1970s by improvising a sauce made from a tin of tomato soup at his restaurant Shish Mahal after a customer complaint.The dish went on to become the most popular dish in British restaurants.
) Zelenskyy to visit US in first trip abroad since conflict beganUkraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to visit Washington for a meeting with his American counterpart Joe Biden and an address to Congress.This will be his first trip abroad since Russia started its offensive in February.The trip comes on the same day Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to meet his top military officials to assess the results so far of the war on Ukraine and set goals for next year.) UN eases weapons embargo on DRC, extends peacekeeping forceThe United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution that eases a weapons embargo on the Democratic Republic of Congo.The resolution removes a stipulation that previously required countries to inform the 15-member council of arms sales or military assistance to the DRC government.Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya hailed the move as "a battle won, an injustice repaired". ) Deadly earthquake jolts northern CaliforniaAt least two people have died after a powerful earthquake struck off the coast of northern California, triggering rockslides and cutting power to tens of thousands.According to the US Geological Survey, the relatively shallow 6.4-magnitude quake hit overnight, 40 kilometres southwest of the port city of Eureka, in Humboldt County.County emergency officials said there was significant damage in the Eel River Valley community.) Musk says will step down as Twitter CEO once successor foundElon Musk has said that he would resign as Twitter CEO once he finds a replacement.The announcement comes in an apparent response to a poll he launched, which suggested users wanted him to step down.Musk has fully owned Twitter since October 27 and has repeatedly courted controversy as CEO.He has sacked half of its staff, readmitted far-right figures to the platform and tried to charge for previously free services.*) Messi's photo with World Cup trophy most-liked Instagram post in historyLionel Messi's 2022 FIFA World Cup victory photo has received the most likes of any image posted on Instagram.Messi's post titled "CHAMPIONS OF THE WORLD!!!!!!!," got over 61 million likes on the social media platform since it was posted on Sunday.In the photo, Messi raises the World Cup trophy and celebrates Argentina's victory over the 2018 champions, France.
) UN chief Guterres believes Russia-Ukraine conflict will go onUN chief Antonio Guterres has said he is not optimistic about the possibility of the war in Ukraine ending anytime soon.Guterres told reporters at the United Nations headquarters in New York that he does not see “effective peace talks” happening in the immediate future.Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the country’s armed forces continue to have control of Bakhmut despite Russian attacks.) US January 6 committee recommends criminal charges against TrumpThe congressional committee that investigated last year's attack on the US Capitol has recommended criminal charges against former President Donald Trump.The House panel unanimously urged the Justice Department to pursue Trump for inciting an insurrection, conspiring to defraud the US government and more.In response, Trump accused the lawmakers of recommending "fake charges" against him to prevent him from running for the White House again.) UN reports highest fatalities in years in PalestineUN’s Middle East envoy has said more than 150 Palestinians and over 20 Israelis were killed in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year. This is the highest number of fatalities in years, according to Tor Wennesland who called for an end to the violence at a UN Security Council meeting.He also urged Israel to cease advancement of all settlement activities as well as the demolition of Palestinian-owned properties.) Türkiye saves over 180 irregular migrants after illegal Greek pushbacksThe Turkish Coast Guard has rescued a total of 181 irregular migrants, including many who were illegally pushed back into Turkish territorial waters by Greece.In the first incident, teams were dispatched off the coast of Ayvacik after the coast guard learned that there were irregular migrants in an inflatable boat. They saved 39 people.In the second incident in the same region, 54 migrants were rescued.In addition, in Türkiye’s Aegean province of Mugla, 88 irregular migrants were rescued after being pushed back by Greek forces.And finally…*) Huge crowds welcome Argentina team after World Cup victoryThousands of fans lined up to welcome back the Argentina football team that won one of the greatest World Cup finals of all time.Members of the team, led by captain Lionel Messi, were all smiles as they descended from the plane in Ezeiza shortly before 3 am.The players were welcomed by rock band La Mosca singing “Muchachos,” a song that was written by a fan and became a popular unofficial anthem in Qatar.
) Nine drones 'shot down' in Kiev's airspaceUkraine says it has shot down nine Iranian-made Shahed drones in capital Kiev's airspace.Kiev’s military administration said on the Telegram messaging app that air alert continued in the capital city. Ukraine has been subjected to frequent and deadly aerial attacks in the 10 months since Russia's launched its offensive in February.) Erdogan warns Greece against provocations in Aegean SeaTürkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned Greece against provocations in the Aegean Sea, saying: “Don’t mess with us. We have no quarrel with you in the Aegean.”At an event in the southeastern Mardin province, Erdogan said Greece “did some crazy things” in the Aegean sea and Turkiye also did “what was necessary,” His remarks came after Greek planes tried to interfere in a NATO training mission conducted in international airspace over the Aegean Sea.) Thousands protest in Paris against immigration billThousands of people took to the streets of the French capital Paris on the occasion of International Migrants Day to protest against a new immigration draft law.After gathering at the Porte de la Chapelle metro station, they started walking towards the city centre.The demonstrators held banners saying "racists, fascists, get off our streets".Calling for more solidarity with irregular migrants, they expressed their opposition to the immigration bill promoted by Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin.) North Korea conducts 'final-stage test' for building spy satelliteNorth Korea has carried out an "important final-stage test" for the development of a spy satellite, which it will complete by April next year, the state media reported. Monday’s report comes a day after Seoul's military said it had detected launches by Pyongyang of two medium-range ballistic missiles. Analysts say developing such a satellite would provide North Korea with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), as they share much of the same technology.*) Messi is here: Argentina win World Cup 2022 against FranceArgentina have won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in a heated match against France that went to a penalty shootout after it finished 3-3 in extra time.The match ended 2-2 after 90 minutes, but Argentina defeated France 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out at the Lusail Stadium to win the World Cup for the third time.As the tournament's 22nd edition hosted by Qatar drew to a close, a tweet from FIFA read: "The greatest FIFAWorldCup ever."
) Peru court orders 18-month detention for ousted president CastilloA Peruvian court has ordered ousted president Pedro Castillo to remain in custody for 18 months, approving a request from authorities for time to build their case against him.The court ruled days after Congress stripped Castillo of the privilege that keeps Peru's presidents from facing criminal charges.The decision came a day after the government declared a state of emergency as it struggles to calm violent protests.) Russia bombed Kherson 'more than 16 times' in a day — Zelenskyy Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that Russian forces have bombarded the city of Kherson with more than 16 strikes in a day.In his daily address on social media, he said there had also been "brutal Russian attacks" in the Donbass and the Kharkiv regions of the war-torn country.Ukrainian officials on Thursday said that Russian shelling killed two people including a Red Cross worker and completely cut power in Kherson.) EU leaders grant Bosnia bloc candidate status; Türkiye welcomes decision European Union leaders have agreed to make Bosnia and Herzegovina a formal candidate to join the bloc of 27 nations.It will be joining other EU candidates which are: Türkiye, Albania, Moldova, the Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Ukraine.The move was hailed by Ankara which hoped that the decision would contribute to the peace and stability of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region.) Dozens feared buried in Malaysia landslide At least 16 people have died and 17 are missing and feared buried in a landslide that struck a campsite in Malaysia.Officials said the landslide in Selangor state, on the outskirts of capital, Kuala Lumpur, occurred near a farmhouse that provides camping facilities.Initial information indicated that some 100 people may have been at the campsite when the incident occurred.And finally…*) Elon Musk says Twitter suspended accounts of journalists for 'doxxing'Twitter has suspended the accounts of more than a half-dozen journalists who had been writing about the company and its new owner Elon Musk.Some of the journalists had been tweeting about Twitter shutting down an account that tracked flights of the billionaire's private jet.Twitter did not say why the reporters' accounts were suspended on Thursday.
) Peru declares state of emergency amid deadly protestsPeru’s new government has declared a 30-day national emergency amid violent protests following the ouster of President Pedro Castillo.Defence Minister Luis Otarola Penaranda announced the declaration on Wednesday, which he said "means the suspension of the rights of assembly and freedom of movement." Peru's new president, Dina Boluarte, pleaded for calm as demonstrations continue against her and the Congress that ousted her predecessor.) Türkiye continues to engage with Russia, Ukraine to end conflict: ErdoganTurkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara continues to hold talks with both Russia and Ukraine to end the ongoing war.He hoped that Ankara's diplomatic efforts for achieving a ceasefire and lasting peace in the region will bear fruit.Erdogan was speaking during the first summit between the leaders of Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan on Wednesday.He said the trio needs to start working on transporting Turkmen natural gas to Western markets.) US planning to give smart-bomb kits to Ukraine — reportThe United States is planning to send electronic equipment to Ukraine that converts unguided aerial munitions into smart bombs, according to The Washington Post."The kits incorporate global positioning devices for precision and can be bolted onto a variety of weapons, the Post reported. The Pentagon calls it a Joint Direct Attack Munition or JDAM.It comes as Russia warned US Patriot missile defence systems would be a legitimate target in Ukraine if Washington authorises them to be delivered to support Kiev in fighting. ) Developing nations seek more money at key UN biodiversity talks Dozens of countries led by Brazil have demanded financial subsidies of at least 100 billion dollars a year until 2030 to protect ecosystems. UN spokesperson David Ainsworth said that biodiversity talks in Montreal deteriorated when negotiators started discussing the global biodiversity fund proposal.Financial flows from the Global North to South for biodiversity are currently estimated at around 10 billion dollars annually.And finally…*) France end Morocco's World Cup journey with 2-0 win in semi-finalFrance have set up a World Cup final against Argentina after beating Morocco 2-0 in the semifinals.Theo Hernandez scored early in just five minutes to hook in the first goal Morocco conceded to an opposition player in the tournament.In the 79th minute, a dribble by Kylian Mbappe set up Kolo Muani to tuck in the decisive goal less than a minute after coming on the field.Despite the victory, the game still proved a close-fought match as Morocco overcame injury blows and showed no deference to France's reputation.
) Two admin buildings damaged in drones attack on Kiev Kiev administration has said that two of its buildings in Ukraine's capital have been damaged in a drone attack. The city’s mayor Vitali Klitschko said that air-defence systems shot down 10 Iranian-made Shahed drones and that there were explosions in the city's central Shevchenkivskyi district.He said there was still no information about potential injuries or fatalities. ) Latin America leaders ask Peru to protect ousted leader Castillo The presidents of Argentina, Colombia, Bolivia and Mexico have signed a joint statement calling for the rights and health of Peru's ousted President Pedro Castillo to be guaranteed.The statement also called for the "popular will" of the Peruvian people to be respected amid the volatile political situation in the country.Street protests broke out after Castillo was removed from office by Congress following his attempt to dissolve parliament before impeachment proceedings against him) US scientists announce fusion milestone raising hopes for clean power US researchers have announced a historic nuclear fusion breakthrough in the quest for a source of unlimited, clean power and an end to reliance on fossil fuels.The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory used the world's largest laser to create, for the first time, a fusion reaction that generated more energy than it took to produce.US Department of Energy described the achievement as a "major scientific breakthrough" that will lead to "advancements in national defence and the future of clean power.") Floods kill at least 120 in DRC capital Kinshasa At least 120 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa after heavy rains unleashed floods and caused landslides.Entire neighbourhoods were flooded with muddy water, and houses and roads were ripped apart by sinkholes on Tuesday. One of these roads was the N1 highway that connects Kinshasa to the chief seaport of Matadi. The prime minister's office said the N1 could be closed for 3-4 days.*) 'Formidable opponents': Giant-slayers Morocco to face France at World CupLionel Messi’s Argentina, who beat Croatia 3-0, will face either defending champions France or surprise package Morocco at the World Cup finals.The game on Wednesday will have added spice given France was Morocco's colonial power and more than a million Moroccans live in the country.Victory for defending champions France would leave them just one win away from becoming the first team in 60 years to successfully defend the trophy.
) Cavusoglu: Türkiye won't allow terror groups to take shelter in Syria, IraqTürkiye’s Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said that Ankara will not allow the PKK/PYD/YPG terrorist organisation to take shelter in Syria and Iraq.Cavusoglu told parliament on Monday that if the Syrian regime acts “realistically,” Türkiye is ready to work together on the fight against terrorism, the political process and the return of Syrians.Türkiye follows the same policy in Iraq, Cavusoglu said, adding that Ankara offers both Iraq's central and regional governments cooperation in fighting terrorism.Last month, Türkiye launched Operation Claw-Sword in northern areas of Iraq and Syria.) US sends first shipment of power gear to aid Ukraine The United States has shipped the first part of its power equipment aid to Ukraine, according to US officials. The first tranche was power equipment worth about $13 million. Two more planeloads of equipment will leave from the US this week. Russia has been carrying out widespread attacks on Ukraine's electricity transmission and heating infrastructure since October. Kiev and its allies say it is a deliberate campaign to harm civilians.) Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried arrested in the Bahamas Authorities in the Bahamas have arrested Samuel Bankman-Fried, the founder of a now-defunct cryptocurrency exchange, at the request of the US government.US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams said the FTX founder was arrested based on a sealed indictment filed by his office. US authorities expect to unseal the indictment on Tuesday morning, and more will be said at that time.) Thousands of UK rail workers go on strike againThousands of rail workers have launched a strike across the UK as part of a wave of industrial action planned for the festive period.The strikes were called by Britain's largest rail union RMT. They will be held over two 48-hour periods this week. They will see picket lines at major stations and cancelled or disrupted journeys. The latest round of rail strikes comes as the UK is experiencing a wave of industrial action on a scale not seen since the 1980s, fuelled by energy and food price hikes.*) 'Avatar,' 'Top Gun' and 'Elvis' to compete for top prize at Golden Globes"Avatar: The Way of Water," "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Elvis" have been nominated for best drama film at the upcoming Golden Globe awards."The Banshees of Inisherin," a nominee for best comedy or musical film, led all movies with eight nominations from members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.Globe-nominated actors included Austin Butler for his portrayal of rock music legend Elvis Presley, Daniel Craig for "Glass Onion" and Colin Farrell for "Banshees."
) Ukraine strike hits Wagner group headquarters – officialUkrainian forces have attacked a hotel where members of Russia's private Wagner military group were based, killing many of them. Serhiy Gaidai, governor of the Russian-occupied Luhansk region, said forces launched a strike on a hotel in the town of Kadiivka.Photos posted on Telegram channels showed a building largely reduced to rubble.) Bangladesh's opposition lawmakers quit parliament, demand fresh voteSeven lawmakers of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party have submitted their resignations to the parliament speaker. They are demanding fresh elections under a neutral government and dissolution of the existing parliament.This comes as tens of thousands of Bangladeshis gathered in the capital Dhaka to support the main opposition party in its protests against the government.) Several killed in firing by Afghan forces on Pakistan borderHeavy shelling by Afghan forces have killed at least six civilians across the border in Pakistan and wounded another 17.The Pakistan army said its troops retaliated at the Chaman border crossing, without giving details of any losses on the other side.It termed the incident an "uncalled for aggression" but an Afghan official in Kandahar said it was accidental and the situation had returned to normal.The latest violence follows a series of deadly incidents and attacks that have skyrocketed tensions with Afghanistan's Taliban rulers. ) Suspected Lockerbie bomber in US custody: ScotlandA Libyan man accused of making the bomb that blew up a flight over Scotland’s Lockerbie in 1988 has been captured, according to Scottish prosecutors.Scotland's Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said that Abu Agila Mohammad Masud was now in custody. The United States had announced charges against Masud two years ago.The bomb on board Pan Am flight 103 en route to New York from London on December 21, 1988 killed all 259 people on board and 11 on the ground. And finally…*) Morocco top Portugal to become first ever African World Cup semi-finalistsMorocco have become the first African country to reach the World Cup semifinals by beating Portugal 1-0.They will play against reigning champions France who defeated England 2-1 in the last quarter-final match in Qatar. Meanwhile, Croatia beat Brazil in a 4-2 shootout win, setting up their semi-final match with Argentina who won against the Netherlands in a penalty shootout.
) China, Saudi Arabia sign strategic deals as Xi heralds 'new era'Saudi Arabia and China have showcased deepening ties with a series of strategic deals during a visit by President Xi Jinping.King Salman signed a "comprehensive strategic partnership agreement" with Xi, who received a lavish welcome in a country forging new global partnerships beyond the West.News reports estimated that the deals between the two countries are worth as much as $30 billion. ) Moscow frees US basketball star Griner in swap with Russian arms dealerRussia has freed US female basketball star Brittney Griner in a high-level prisoner exchange, with the US releasing Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.The prisoner swap achieved a top goal for US President Joe Biden, but carried a heavy price — and left behind an American jailed for nearly four years in Russia.Biden said Griner will need time to recover from the "trauma" of imprisonment in Russia.) Bangladesh's BNP says top opposition leaders taken by policeThe two top leaders of Bangladesh's main opposition party have been taken from their homes by police a day before a planned rally was to call for the prime minister's resignation.Protests sparked by power cuts and fuel price hikes have erupted across the country in recent months, demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down.Police action comes two days after security forces in the capital Dhaka fired rubber bullets and tear gas into a crowd of thousands of Bangladesh Nationalist Party supporters.) World's longest-serving president begins sixth term in Equatorial GuineaEquatorial Guinea's long-serving President Teodoro Obiang has been sworn-in for his sixth seven-year term.Obiang said, "As long as I am president and with our resources, the people's desires and needs for well-being will be fully realised."He marked the beginning of his next seven-year term in a ceremony in the capital Malabo which began after a military parade attended by top officials and a host of foreign African leaders.And finally…*) 6th TRT World Forum 2022 kicks off in IstanbulThe 6th TRT World Forum 2022 has kicked off in Istanbul to "tackle the most pressing issues in tomorrow's world".Under the theme of Mapping the Future: Uncertainties, Realities and Opportunities, the annual event gathers academics, journalists, intellectuals, politicians, and members of civil society from around the world.Renowned experts are also attending a total of 10 public sessions.
) Boluarte becomes Peru's first ever female president after Castillo's ousterPeruvian politician Dina Boluarte has been sworn in as interim president, hours after Pedro Castillo was removed in an impeachment trial and arrested.Boluarte, elevated from vice president, becomes Peru's first ever female president, following Castillo's attempt to dissolve the legislature by decree to avoid the impeachment vote.Boluarte said she was taking office "in accordance with the Constitution of Peru.” ) Putin warns of prolonged Russian military operation against UkraineRussian President Vladimir Putin has warned that his country's military could be fighting against Ukraine for a long time.Putin said, "As for the long process of seeing results of the special military operation, of course, this is a lengthy process."Moscow had expected the fighting to last just days before Ukraine's surrender. ) China's Xi starts landmark visit to Saudi ArabiaChinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Saudi Arabia on a visit, which China hailed as its biggest-ever diplomatic initiative in the Arab world.The meeting between the global economic powerhouse and Gulf energy giant comes as Saudi ties with Washington are strained by US criticism on some issues, including Riyadh's support for oil output curbs. Xi's trip includes direct talks with Saudi Arabia, a wider meeting with the six-nation Gulf Arab alliance and a summit with Arab leaders. ) Afghan Taliban carries out first public execution since takeoverThe Taliban administration has publicly executed a man accused of murder in Afghanistan’s western Farah province.This is the first officially confirmed public execution since the group took over the country last year. The man was accused of stabbing another man to death in 2017.The execution was carried out by the father of the victim, who shot the man three times, according to a statement by a Taliban spokesperson. And finally…*) Oldest DNA reveals life in Greenland two million years agoScientists in Greenland have announced the discovery of DNA dating back two million years in sediment from the Ice Age, opening a new chapter in paleogenetics.Co-author of the study Mikkel Winther Pedersen, said the research is breaking the barrier of “what we thought we could reach in terms of genetic studies.” He said: “It was long thought that one million years was the boundary of DNA survival, but now we are twice as old as that.”
) Xi set to arrive in Riyadh to meet Saudi and Arab leadersChinese President Xi Jinping is embarking on a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia where he will hold meetings with regional leaders likely focused on energy. The overseas trip is only Xi's third since the Covid-19 pandemic began in 2020. It is also his first to Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest crude oil exporter, since 2016. ) US says it has not 'enabled' Ukraine strikes inside RussiaThe United States says it hadn't "enabled" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. This comes after a spate of drone attacks on military-linked facilities deep within Russian territory.Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters the US has “neither encouraged nor enabled the Ukrainians to strike inside of Russia."Kiev did not directly claim responsibility but neither did it criticise the action, which killed three people, according to reports from Russia.) China announces nationwide loosening of Covid-19 restrictions China has announced a nationwide loosening of Covid-19 restrictions following protests against the hardline strategy that grew into calls for greater political freedoms.Under the new guidelines announced by the National Health Commission, the frequency and scope of PCR testing will be reduced.Lockdowns will also be scaled down and people with non-severe Covid cases can isolate at home instead of centralised government facilities.) Honduras suspends rights in two largest cities to fight gangsHonduran police have moved en masse into poor urban areas to tackle criminal gangs after a decree by the president to temporarily suspend certain rights.The 30-day lifting of constitutional guarantees allows police to make arrests without warrants in 89 districts of the capital and 73 districts of San Pedro Sula, the industrial capital.President Xiomara Castro, a leftist, declared last week the lifting of the constitutional rights due to what she called a "national emergency" over gang violence.*) Morocco dump Spain out of World Cup after thrilling penalty shootout winMorocco have dumped Spain out of the World Cup in a last-16 penalty shootout following a 0-0 draw over 120 minutes.Achraf Hakimi scored the decisive spot-kick after Spain squandered all three of their attempts.Morocco has been the biggest surprise of the tournament and is the only team from outside Europe or South America to make it to the last eight. With the historic victory, the Moroccan team, also known as the Atlas Lions, earns a quarter-final clash berth with Portugal, who defeated Switzerland 6-1.
) Sudan's generals, civilian factions sign initial deal to end crisisSudan's military and civilian leaders have signed an initial deal aimed at ending a deep crisis that has gripped the northeast African country since a coup a year ago.In a first phase, the framework agreement lays the groundwork for establishing a transitional civilian authority, said the civilian group the Forces for Freedom and Change.A final deal tackling issues including transitional justice and reforms to the military should be completed "within weeks," it said.) Kiev hits Russian air bases, Kremlin confirmsA drone has attacked an airfield in Russia's Kursk region bordering Ukraine, according to the local governor.This comes a day after Moscow blamed Ukraine for drone strikes at two other Russian airfields.Governor Roman Starovoyt said there were no casualties. He did not specify where the drone originated.) Several dead as blast targets vehicle in northern AfghanistanA roadside bomb has killed seven petroleum company employees aboard a bus in northern Afghanistan.A provincial police spokesman in Mazar-i-Sharif said the bomb was placed in a cart by the roadside and it was detonated as the bus arrived.Although the Taliban claim to have improved security across the nation since coming to power last year, there have been scores of bomb blasts and attacks – many claimed by the local chapter of Daesh.) Oil prices rise after price cap on Russian crude, OPEC+ meetingOil prices have edged higher after a G7 price cap on Russian seaborne oil came into force on top of a European Union embargo on imports of Russian crude by sea.The Group of Seven price cap comes as the West tries to limit Moscow's ability to finance its war in Ukraine.But Russia has said it will not abide by the measure even if it has to cut production. *) Brazil beats South Korea 4-1 at World CupBrazil has defeated South Korea 4-1 and will face Croatia in the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.Brazil hit top gear with Neymar back in the line-up to brush aside South Korea 4-1 and ease into the quarter-finals of the World Cup where they will face Croatia.Neymar had been sidelined for two matches with a sprained ankle.Vinicius Junior opened the scoring inside seven minutes before Neymar added another from the penalty spot to move to 76 goals for his country, leaving him just one away from equalling Pele's all-time record tally.
) West African leaders agree to create regional forceWest African leaders have agreed to create a regional force to intervene against terrorism and in the event of coups.The president of the Economic Community of West African States, Omar Alieu Touray, said the leaders of the group decided to act to take control of the security in the region. Several countries in the region are suffering from the spread of militancy and terrorism, including Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, and southwards to the Gulf of Guinea.) Blinken vows to oppose Israel settlements, annexation in occupied West BankUS Secretary of State Antony Blinken has promised to counter Israeli settlements and annexation in the occupied West Bank just days before Benjamin Netanyahu’s return to power.Netanyahu has sealed a coalition deal with extreme-right movements including Religious Zionism, which is set for a post in charge of settlements in the West Bank.Speaking to J Street, a pro-Israel US advocacy group, Blinken said President Joe Biden's administration will continue to unequivocally oppose any acts that undermine the prospects of a two-state solution.) China reports more Covid deaths as some restrictions easedChina has reported two additional deaths from Covid-19 as some cities moved cautiously to ease pandemic restrictions following increasingly vocal public frustrations.The National Health Commission said that one death was reported each in the provinces of Shandong and Sichuan.Authorities fear that lifting Covid restrictions entirely could lead to millions of deaths in the country, but an outpouring of public anger appears to have prompted authorities to lift some of the more heavy restrictions. ) Flash flood in South Africa kills more than a dozen at religious gatheringIn South Africa, at least 14 people have died and others are still missing after a flash flood swept away members of a church congregation along the Jukskei River in Johannesburg.Officials said a group of 33 worshippers was conducting religious rituals along the river on Saturday. Rescue workers said that a precise figure for the number still missing could not be given.*) England reaches World Cup quarterfinals with 3-0 win over SenegalEngland captain Harry Kane has scored his first goal of this year’s World Cup, helping his team beat Senegal 3-0 and setting up a match against France in the quarter-finals.Kane scored for the 52nd time for his country to move within one of Wayne Rooney’s England record. He also overtook Gary Lineker as his country’s leading scorer in major tournaments with 11 goals.Jordan Henderson and Bukayo Saka also scored at Al Bayt Stadium while Jude Bellingham played a key role in the opening two goals.
) Up to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed so farAs many as 13,000 Ukrainian troops have been killed since Russia's incursion into the country in February, a senior adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says. Mykhailo Podolyak told a local media outlet that the number of casualties range from 10,000 to 13,000 dead.President Zelenskyy would make the official data public when the right moment comes, he added.) DRC accuses M23 rebels of civilian massacreThe Democratic Republic of Congo's military has accused M23 rebels of killing 50 civilians and breaching a five-day-old truce in the country's restive east.General Sylvain Ekenge said the M23 group was carrying out massacres, the most recent of which is that of 50 Congolese civilians, heinously murdered this week in Kishishe - a village some 70 kilometres north of the eastern city of Goma.The rebel group issued a statement denying the alleged massacre of civilians.) Türkiye will not allow existence of any terror group in region: NSCTürkiye will not allow the existence and activities of any terrorist group in its region, the country’s National Security Council has said.“The existence and activity of any terrorist group will not be allowed in our region, and every necessary step will be taken decisively for this," the country's security body has said in a statement after over three-hour meeting, which was chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the capital Ankara. To ensure the defence and security of the Turkish nation and its borders, the only target in the operations, which are being carried out along its southern borders in line with the right of self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, are terrorist organisations, it added.) Peru's Congress approves motion to begin President Castillo's impeachmentPeru's Congress has approved a motion to start impeachment proceedings against President Pedro Castillo.The move promoted by opposition lawmakers marks the third formal attempt to oust the leftist leader since he took office last year. And finally…*) Germany is out of World CupFour-time champions Germany have sensationally crashed out of the FIFA World Cup despite a 4-2 victory over Costa Rica in their last Group E match.It is the first time in their World Cup history that Germany has failed to win any of their first two group matches.Meanwhile, Japan and Spain have qualified for the knockout stage of the tournament.
*) School bombing in Afghanistan kills 15
At least 15 people have been killed in a bombing at a religious school in the north of Afghanistan. Most of the victims were students.
At least 20 people were also wounded in the explosion, which happened in the city of Aybak during prayer time.
No group has claimed responsibility so far. Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August last year, there have been multiple attacks targeting civilians across the country. Most were claimed by the local chapter of Daesh terror group.
*) Ukraine calls for longer-range weapons as NATO meeting draws to a close
A two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers has ended with a promise the alliance will increase support for eastern European partners who are not yet full NATO members.
Ukraine again called for longer-range weapons, but there are still concerns it may use them to hit Russian territory, which could draw NATO members directly into the conflict.
Fierce fighting continues in the eastern Donetsk region while Ukraine reports Russian shelling in southern areas of the country.
*) EU threatens to ban Twitter
The European Union has threatened to ban Twitter in its territory, unless the company's owner Elon Musk abides by its laws on content moderation.
The EU could be setting the scene for a regulatory battle over the future of the social network.
*) Daesh leader killed in Syria
Washington says the leader of the Daesh terrorist organisation was killed in a raid in the Syrian province of Daraa in October.
In a statement, the US central command says: “we are pleased to see the removal of Daesh's top leaders in such quick succession.”
And finally…
*) Messi fights on
Virtuoso striker Messi is set to grace the World Cup stage at least once more, as Argentina secured a place in the knockout stage of the World Cup.
The South American side will face Australia in the last-16 while Poland will take on reigning champions France.
*) Deadly blast in western Pakistan
A bomb blast targeting a police patrol has killed at least three people and wounded more than 20 people in the southwestern Pakistani city of Quetta, according to a police official.
The blast targeted a police patrol that wounded 21 people, including 15 police officers, the official said, adding police were on duty to guard a polio vaccination team.
Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, also known as Pakistani Taliban, has claimed responsibility for the blast.
*) Zelenskyy says Russia 'planning something in the south'
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that the situation at the front line remains difficult, with Russian forces attempting to advance in the Donbass region and Kharkiv.
In a video address, Zelenskyy said despite extremely large losses, the occupiers are still trying to advance on the Donetsk region, gain a foothold in Luhansk region and move into Kharkiv region, They are planning something in the south, he added.
Meanwhile, NATO allies have promised more arms for Kiev and equipment to help restore Ukrainian power and heat knocked out by Russian strikes.
*) UNGA to discuss Israel-Palestine conflict
The UN General Assembly will hold talks on the Israel-Palestine conflict that it's warned is reaching boiling point.
On Tuesday, Israeli forces killed five Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.
Two brothers in their twenties were killed during an Israeli air raid in Ramallah. The Palestinian Authority called it an 'execution in cold blood'. A third man was shot in the head near the flashpoint city of Hebron, and a fourth was killed by Israeli forces who say he tried to drive over a soldier. *) US militia leader found guilty of Capitol Hill riot
In the United States, the founder of the Oath Keepers right-wing militia has been found guilty of plotting to stop Joe Biden taking office.
After a two month trial, a jury in Washington has found Stewart Rhodes and another member, Kelly Meggs, guilty of the rare charge of seditious conspiracy for their role in last year's riot at the US Capitol.
Three others were acquitted of that charge, but all five have been found guilty of obstruction of an official proceeding.
And finally… *) US beat Iran in World Cup
Christian Pulisic scored as the United States advanced to the knockout round of the FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 win over Iran in a politically charged rematch of their famous meeting a quarter-century ago.
Back in the World Cup after missing the 2018 tournament, the US opened with draws against Wales and England and needed a victory to move on to the round of 16.
Iran finished third in the group with three points and has failed to advance in all six of its World Cup appearances.
*) China’s police increase security
Police in China have increased security across the country to prevent further protests.
Days of demonstrations in multiple cities have shown the level of anger being felt by many at Beijing's zero-Covid policy.
After almost three years of harsh lockdowns and mass daily testing, some people are openly calling for the resignation of President XI Jinping.
*) US to announce emergency aid for Ukraine
The United States is set to announce what it's calling a substantial amount of emergency aid for Ukraine to help rebuild the country's energy infrastructure.
NATO officials and foreign ministers are meeting to address the humanitarian fallout of the conflict, especially to help Ukrainians get through winter.
In his nightly address, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he expects new attacks this week.
*) Türkiye committed to root out PKK
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara is committed to destroying the PKK terrorist group, and doesn't need permission from anyone to secure its borders and protect its people.
During his speech after the cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdogan said the critics of Türkiye's anti-terror operations should look at themselves first. He said Ankara will ensure its security at any cost.
The Turkish army is preparing for a ground offensive in northern Syria to clear YPG/PKK terrorists from the border.
*) Great Barrier Reef risks 'in danger' World Heritage listing
UN experts have recommended that Australia's Great Barrier Reef should be added to a list of "in danger" World Heritage sites
They warned the fading wonder has been "significantly impacted" by the climate crisis. A UNESCO-tasked report said warming seas and agricultural pollution had put the reef at risk and that its resilience had been "substantially compromised".
The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia's premier tourist drawcards and putting it on the in-danger list could substantially tarnish its allure for international visitors.
*) Portugal, Brazil join France in World Cup knockouts
Five-time champions Brazil and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal have joined France in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds in Qatar.
Bruno Fernandes scored twice to give Portugal a 2-0 victory over Uruguay and send them into the knockout stages of the World Cup alongside France and Brazil. Brazil defeated Switzerland 1-0.
*) China’s lockdown protests enter third day
China is facing unprecedented civil disobedience over its strict zero-Covid restrictions.
Police have arrested several demonstrators in Shanghai on the third day of growing protests. And in the capital Beijing, hundreds have rallied against lockdowns.
They began on Friday in the northwestern Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, where ten people died in a fire. Protesters have blamed the incident on a coronavirus lockdown.
On Monday, the number of daily cases had risen to more than 40,000 as the government announced the easing of some restrictions.
*) Civilians flee Kherson as it comes under heavy bombardment
Residents are fleeing the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson as it comes under heavy Russian shelling.
At least 32 civilians have been killed since Ukraine retook the city from Russia two weeks ago.
Since then, residents have struggled with no water, heating and electricity as Russian troops destroyed thermal and power plants before they left.
*) Operation Claw-Lock targets northern Iraq and Syria
Ankara's Operation Claw-Lock and Claw-Sword continue to target PKK/YPG terrorist positions in northern Iraq and Syria.
The Turkish military has killed 13 PKK terrorists over the last two days during its cross-border operation in northern Iraq, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar says.
So far, the Operation Claw-Sword has targeted the terror group with air and artillery strikes in northern Iraq, Syria, but President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has also spoken about the possibility of a new ground operation.
*) Ischia landslide in Italy blamed on illegal construction
People on the Italian island of Ischia are blaming illegal construction for the deaths of seven people in a massive landslide.
At least five others are still missing. Two families, including children, are believed to be among them. The government has declared a state of emergency.
*) Iran coach demands FIFA expert’s resignation
In the latest World Cup controversy, Iran coach Carlos Queiroz has called on former Germany striker Jurgen Klinsmann to resign from a FIFA experts panel.
This comes after Klinsmann’s comments following Iran's 2-0 win against Wales. He said Iran’s players use dirty tactics because it’s in their “culture."
*) Russian strikes cause emergency outages in Ukraine
Ukraine races to repair energy infrastructure after Russian attacks cut power to millions of people across the country.
In the capital Kiev, 60 percent of residents were still without power on Friday amid temperatures well below freezing, according to the city’s mayor.
Meanwhile, the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson came under its heaviest Russian bombardment since Ukrainian forces recaptured it two weeks ago.
At least four people have been killed and many more injured in the latest strikes.
*) Protesters in Goma reject east Congo ceasefire agreement
Hundreds of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern city of Goma are protesting against a ceasefire agreement between African leaders to stop attacks by M23 rebels in the region.
Protesters say the agreement does not tackle Rwanda’s alleged backing of the group.
M23 rebels, who were not present at the talks, said the agreement did not affect them. An East African regional force will now be deployed to monitor the ceasefire.
Around 280,000 people have been displaced since fighting began between the rebels and the Congolese army earlier this year.
*) UN council votes to investigate human rights abuses in Iran The UN Human Rights Council has voted to investigate human rights abuses in Iran during countrywide anti-government protests.
The motion passed with 25 in favour, six against and 16 abstentions.
An estimated 300 people have been killed and 14,000 arrested since protests began 10 weeks ago.
Tehran has called the decision disgraceful and motivated by some western countries.
*) Shamima Begum challenges citizenship revocation
Today is the last day in the appeal hearing of Shamima Begum, a British schoolgirl who travelled to Syria to join Daesh in 2015.
Begum, who was fifteen at the time, is challenging the removal of her citizenship on grounds of national security.
Her lawyers say she was a likely “child victim of trafficking.”
And finally… *) Brazil beats Serbia and latest from the World Cup
Brazil beat Serbia 2-0 (two nil) in their opening game in the World Cup.
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo makes history as he becomes the first player to score in five FIFA World Cups as Portugal beat Ghana 3-2.
*) Anwar Ibrahim is Malaysia's new prime minister
After days of political impasse, opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has been appointed as Malaysia’s new prime minister.
King Al Sultan Abdullah confirmed his appointment on Thursday, five days after parliamentary election left no party with a clear majority to form a government.
Anwar is set to be sworn in at 9∂ GMT.
*) Ceasefire in eastern DRC to begin Friday
African leaders gathered in Angola’s capital Luanda have called for an “immediate ceasefire” in the Democratic Republic of Congo to start on Friday evening.
The agreement aims to end the conflict between the Congolese army and M23 rebels in the east of the country.
The conflict has raised tensions between the DRC and neighbouring Rwanda. The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the armed group, which Rwanda denies.
More than 5.5 million people have been displaced in the DRC, one of the world’s most neglected humanitarian crises.
*) President Erdogan on operation against Syria-based terrorists
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said Türkiye could soon launch a land operation against terror groups in neighbouring Syria to protect its citizens and territory.
Speaking to AK Party members, the Turkish president said that the fight against terrorism will go to wherever there’s a threat against Turkiye.
His comments come three days after the start of Operation Claw-Sword, which so far has seen multiple air strikes against the PKK/YPG terror group in northern Syria and Iraq.
*) Kosovo and Serbia finally settle car licence plate dispute
Kosovo and Serbia have now reached a deal to end a two-year dispute over car licence plates.
The dispute could have triggered one of the worst regional crises in years.
The EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who helped with the negotiations, says both countries have agreed to avoid further escalation and concentrate on normalising relations.
Thousands of ethnic Serbs living in northern Kosovo had refused to switch from Serbian license plates to Kosovar ones - even though Serbia required the same for Kosovars living there.
And finally…
*) China's daily Covid infections highest since pandemic began
China has recorded more than 31,000 Covid-19 cases, its highest number since the pandemic began.
This comes despite the government’s zero-tolerance approach, including strict lockdowns and travel restrictions which have sparked sporadic protests.
On Wednesday, workers at the world’s largest iPhone factory in central China, Foxconn, were seen protesting against the restrictions. Clashes with police continued into the night.
*) Magnitude 5.9 earthquake strikes northwestern Türkiye
A magnitude 5.9 earthquake has struck Türkiye's northwestern Duzce province, with tremors felt in Istanbul, Ankara and other regions, officials say.
The earthquake, which struck at 01:08 GMT was centred about 14 kilometres northwest of Duzce, in the Golyaka district, Türkiye's disaster management agency, AFAD said.
The agency said that 35 people were injured, one of them critically, and reported 70 aftershocks in the region.
*) Civilians killed in YPG/PKK terror attack in northern Syria
At least five civilians, including a child, have been killed in northwestern Syria in a rocket strike by the YPG/PKK terrorist group, according to reports and witnesses.
At least eight others were wounded in Tuesday's attack in the Azaz district.
YPG/PKK terrorists fired the projectile from the Tal Rifaat area which has been under their occupation for more than six years.
*) One dead, more than a dozen injured in two explosions in West Jerusalem
Two separate explosions in West Jerusalem have left 14 people injured and killed one, according to an Israeli police statement and Israel's Army Radio.
The first explosion took place around 05:05 GMT near a bus station at the Givat Shaul Junction in West Jerusalem, along a highway leading out of the city that is usually packed with commuters.
The second explosion was heard at 05:35 GMT near the Ramot Junction, also in the vicinity of a bus station.
14 civilians were injured at the scenes, the police statement said. Israel's Army Radio reported that one person had died of injuries sustained in one of the blasts.
*) Indonesia quake survivors appeal for supplies as rescuers search debris
Survivors of an Indonesian earthquake that killed at least 268 people have appealed for food and water as rescuers picked through devastated villages.
The calls for help came as authorities warned that debris from landslides caused by the strong quake near the town of Cianjur in West Java needed to be cleared.
This comes ahead of heavy rains forecast in the coming weeks, threatening a second disaster.
*) FIFA 2022: Saudi Arabia beat Argentina in stunning World Cup upset
Unheralded Saudi Arabia has notched one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history with a 2-1 win over Lionel Messi's Argentina.
On his fifth and final quest for the only major trophy to elude him on Tuesday, Messi scored a 10th minute penalty in a dominant first half display.
But Saudi Arabia, the second-lowest ranked team in the tournament after Ghana, charged at Argentina's defence in the second half.
The result broke Argentina's amazing 36-match undefeated run and stopped them from matching the previous international record of 37 games unbeaten, held by Italy.
*) Hunt for buried survivors after deadly quake hits Indonesia
Rescuers continued their search for survivors after a powerful earthquake hit Indonesia’s main island of Java.
At least 162 people have died in Monday’s magnitude 5.6 quake, which also injured thousands. The death toll is expected to rise as many remain trapped in collapsed buildings.
Indonesia's President Joko Widodo said the government would hand out compensation to victims and their families.
*) Türkiye neutralises 184 PKK/YPG terrorists: Defence ministry
Türkiye could launch a ground operation to eliminate the terrorist threat posed by the PKK and YPG, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.
The statement came a day after Ankara launched an aerial operation called Claw-Sword in northern Iraq and Syria where so far, dozens of targets have been destroyed and 184 terrorists neutralised, according to the defence ministry.
Three people, including a student and teacher, were also killed inside Türkiye after the terrorist group fired mortars into the southeastern city of Gaziantep.
*) Malaysia’s king expected to pick next prime minister
In Malaysia, King Al-Sultan Abdullah is now expected to pick the next prime minister, after Saturday’s election produced a hung parliament.
Political parties missed a Tuesday deadline to put together alliances for a majority and present their choice for PM.
The uncertainty prolongs economic and political instability in the Southeast Asian nation, which has had three prime ministers in as many years.
*) Mali bans French-backed NGOs' activities — govt
Mali's military government has announced a ban on the activities of NGOs, including humanitarian organisations, funded or supported by France.
Mali’s interim prime minister said it was in response to France's decision to stop development aid for Mali, the latest move in a worsening row between the countries.
France announced the decision last week, three months after finalising its pull-out of forces from the country.
*) World Cup: England off to a flyer after routing Iran 6-2
England saw a flying start to their World Cup campaign in Qatar as it won its first game against Iran 6-2.
The blistering score came after the Iranian players chose not to sing the national anthem before the match, in apparent support for Mahsa Amini demonstrations that have rocked their country for the past two months.
Iran coach Carlos Queiroz said the unrest in Iran had put his players under enormous strain.
*) Türkiye begins anti-terror raids in Iraq, Syria after Istanbul bombing
Türkiye has launched air strikes on PKK/YPG targets in northern Iraq and Syria that came after last week's terrorist attack in Istanbul.
The defence ministry confirmed that 89 targets had been destroyed and that "many terrorists" were "neutralised” as “Operation Claw-Sword” was launched early on Sunday morning.
Meanwhile at least eight Turkish security officials were injured near the Syrian border as PKK/YPG terrorists fired rockets into Türkiye.
*) 'Not enough': World leaders react to historic UN climate deal
The UN climate conference has closed with what some have described as a “breakthrough” agreement to provide "loss and damage" funding for vulnerable countries hit hard by climate disasters.
The developing world has been calling for such a fund for thirty years, and it's been one of the most important issues at COP27.
While many nations are celebrating its achievement, others are unhappy with the overall agreement, which they say lacks a greater commitment to curb the use of fossil fuels.
*) Russia shelling remains 'extremely high' — Ukraine
The UN's nuclear watchdog has condemned another attack on the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine.
At least a dozen blasts were reported near a nuclear waste storage facility, as well as a building that houses fresh spent nuclear fuel.
Moscow and Kiev both blame each other for the shelling. There has been no leak of radiation detected at the facility yet.
*) Serbia's Vucic to meet Kosovo PM Kurti over licence plates dispute
The Serbian president has said he will meet Kosovo’s Prime Minister in Brussels on Monday to discuss a licence plate row that risks becoming one of the worst regional crises in years.
The dispute is over a tit-for-tat measure in Kosovo that requires Kosovan Serbs with licence plates issued by Serbia to replace them with plates issued by Kosovo by April next year.
The main source of tension is Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence, which Serbia does not recognise and continues to see the country as part of its territory,
*) Ecuador defeats Qatar 2-0 in World Cup 2022 opener
After four years of waiting, the football World Cup has finally kicked off in Qatar.
Ecuador won the opening game of the tournament defeating hosts Qatar 2-0 in the Al Bayt Stadium.
Over the next month, 32 teams from around the world will battle it out in the first World Cup to be held in the Middle East.
*) Russian missiles hit Ukrainian energy infrastructure
Russian missiles continue to pound critical Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
Ukraine's President Volodmyr Zelenskyy says 10 million people are without power, following Russian missile strikes targeting its energy facilities.
Most of the power outages are in the capital Kiev, the port of Odessa and the western city of Vinnytsia.
Officials have confirmed damage to critical infrastructure in Odessa and Dnipro, and at least four deaths in Zaporizhzhia
*) Ukraine grain deal extended by another four months
The Ankara-brokered Black Sea Grain deal will continue for at least another four months, easing concerns over global food shortages.
The agreement, allowing Ukrainian agricultural exports from its southern ports, was due to expire on Saturday.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who brokered the original deal alongside the UN, played a key role in the extension.
*) Deadly fire in Gaza kills several people
At least 21 people have died in a fire at a refugee camp in Gaza.
The fire broke out in a three-storey house in the crowded Jabalia camp in northern Gaza.
While the cause remains unknown, officials say gasoline was stored in the building. Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas has declared a day of mourning on Friday.
*) US House Speaker to step down
Nancy Pelosi - the Speaker of the US House of Representatives - has announced she is stepping down after nearly two decades. However, she will remain as a lawmaker in the chamber.
She was the first woman to hold the office. Her decision comes after the Republicans won a slim majority in the House following the midterm elections. They will take control of the chamber in January.
And finally…
*) Hundreds more resign from Twitter
Hundreds of Twitter employees have resigned after an ultimatum from its new owner, Elon Musk.
The billionaire has fired nearly half of the company's 75-hundred workforce since he bought the company. Twitter's offices are now temporarily closed until Monday.
Musk sent out a form with a Thursday deadline to his remaining employees asking if they want to be part of what he calls an “extremely hardcore” culture reset of the social media platform.
*) Zelenskyy insists Poland missile attack wasn't by Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists a missile that killed two people in Poland did not come from Ukrainian armed forces.
Zelenskyy says a full-access investigation involving his officials should clarify what happened in Poland. He maintains a missile that crossed over into Poland did not come from Ukrainian armed forces.
Earlier, Poland's President Andrej Duda said the missile strike appears to have been an accident, not an intentional attack. His comments were also echoed by the head of NATO.
*) Republicans take control of lower chamber of Congress
In the US, Republican lawmakers have taken control of the lower chamber of Congress, after winning the required 218 seats in the House of Representatives.
Democrats have lost key races in New York, Florida and other states with slim margins. Now, Republicans will be able to block Biden's legislative decisions since all bills must pass both the House and the Senate to become law.
Meanwhile, President Biden congratulated Republicans for winning the majority in the House.
*) DPRK fires another ballistic missile
South Korea's military says Pyongyang has test-fired another ballistic missile off its east coast.
North Korea has threatened to launch more military responses after the US, South Korea and Japan announced strengthened security ties this week.
Pyongyang warned that an accord on the North would leave tensions on the Korean Peninsula more unpredictable.
*) World leaders express resolve to limit temperature rise to 1.5C
Leaders at the Group of 20 (G20) meeting in Bali have agreed to pursue efforts to limit the rise in global temperatures to 1.5 degree Celsius.
They also agreed to speed up efforts to "phase down" the unabated use of coal.
A declaration issued after the end of the summit urged delegates at COP27 to "urgently scale up" efforts on the issue of mitigating and adapting to the climate crisis.
*) Football players get protection from online abuse during World Cup
FIFA and the global football players union have launched a moderation service to protect World Cup players from abuse on social media during the tournament.
FIFA said that the more than 830 players in Qatar could access a "dedicated monitoring, reporting and moderation service" that aims to filter hate speech targeted at them.
*) Blaming Russia for Poland missile attack will escalate tensions: Erdogan
Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voices the need to respect Russia's statement on reports of a suspected missile attack on Poland, saying pointing fingers at Russia would further escalate tensions.
Erdogan’s remarks came after NATO member Poland said that a Russian-made missile landed on its territory, about six kilometres from Ukraine’s border, and killed two people.
The Turkish president said an investigation into the issue is essential. Russia denies carrying out the attack and US President Joe Biden also said it was "unlikely" that the missile was fired from Russia.
*) Donald Trump launches 2024 White House bid
Former US president Donald Trump announces that he's running for the White House again in 2024.
The 76-year-old says he “will ensure” incumbent President Joe Biden does not get “four more years” in office.
Trump was defeated by Biden in the 2020 presidential election, but initially refused to concede.
*) First ICRC aid convoy arrives in Ethiopia's Tigray after peace deal
The International Committee of the Red Cross says a medical aid convoy arrived in the capital of Ethiopia's Tigray region.
Two trucks of medicines, emergency and first aid kits arrived in the war-ravaged region following a peace deal between the government and the Tigrayan rebels earlier this month.
The region of six million people has been suffering from a severe lack of food and medicine, as well as limited access to basic services.
*) UK has a new tool to track people facing deportation
The UK will soon bring into operation a GPS-enabled fingerprint scanner to verify the exact location and identity of people subject to deportation orders, a report published by New Scientist has said.
GPS-enabled ankle tags have already been in use in the UK since at least August 2021, but these new devices take it a notch higher.
Rights campaigners say such a measure is a form of unnecessary biometric surveillance and could add to people’s mental health problems.
And finally… *) 'Loud music' could put around one billion youth at risk of hearing loss
Around one billion young people worldwide could be at risk of hearing loss from listening to headphones or attending loud music venues.
The World Health Organization-led study called on young people to be more careful about their listening habits and urged governments and manufacturers to do more to protect future hearing.
More than 430 million people — over five percent of the world's population — currently have disabling hearing loss, according to the WHO, which estimates the number will rise to 700 million by 2050.
*) G20 leaders 'must end war' between Russia, Ukraine — Indonesia
Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who is also the host of this year's G20 summit, has called for peace and asked member countries to not allow another Cold War between major powers.
He made the remarks during the opening speech of the event that brought together leaders of the world’s 20 largest economies.
The ongoing food, energy and climate crises are expected to be top of the agenda, but it's Russia's ongoing attack on Ukraine that's expected to dominate the two-day summit.
*) France, UK sign new deal to block migrant Channel crossings
The UK and France have signed a deal to try to stop migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats.
The agreement will see the UK pay an extra nine million dollars per year for increased surveillance of French beaches and British officers will also be stationed in French control rooms to improve coordination.
Rights groups have long criticised Britain and France for their policies on migrants and asylum seekers.
*) Turkish army chief discusses Istanbul terror attack with US counterpart
The Turkish chief of general staff Yasar Guler has raised Sunday's terrorist attack at Istanbul's iconic Istiklal Avenue in a phone call with his US counterpart Mark Milley.
In a statement, the US Joint Staff spokesman said the two army chiefs reaffirmed the strength of the bilateral military relationship between the US and Türkiye.
Sunday's deadly explosion killed 6 people and injured dozens. Turkish authorities say it was carried out by the YPG/PYD/PKK terrorist organisation.
Washington’s continued support for affiliates of the PKK in the name of fighting Daesh in Syria has long been a sore point between the two NATO allies.
*) Israel calls US probe into journalist killing a 'mistake'
Israel has said it would not cooperate with a US investigation into the shooting and death of a Palestinian-American journalist, Shereen Abu Akleh.
Politico reported that the FBI was probing the May 11 killing of the veteran Al Jazeera reporter who was shot in the head during an Israeli military raid.
Israel had earlier conceded in September that one of its soldiers had likely shot the reporter but its military refused to prosecute the soldier who may have fired the fatal shot.
*) Humanity hits the eight billion mark
The world's population is set to hit 8 billion today, according to UN estimates.
Fertility rates vary widely across regions and countries. European countries have some of the lowest fertility rates, while African countries have some of the highest.
While some worry that eight billion humans is too many for the planet, most experts say the bigger problem is the overconsumption of resources by the wealthiest people.
*) Prime suspect in Istanbul bomb attack detained: Turkish authorities
Turkish authorities have detained dozens of suspects, including the prime suspect in the bomb attack that killed 6 people and injured 81 on Istanbul's iconic Istiklal Avenue.
The prime suspect, who is believed to have planted the explosive device, was identified as 23-year-old Syrian national Ahlam Albashir.
The suspect said that she had entered Türkiye illegally from Syria after taking orders from the PKK/YPG terrorist organisation, officials said.
*) Ethiopian government, Tigray rebels sign deal on ceasefire implementation
The Ethiopian government and Tigrayan rebels have signed an agreement in Nairobi that lays out a road map for peace.
Saturday’s deal means an end to the bloody two-year conflict between Ethiopia’s federal army and rebels in the Tigray region, could be in sight.
Both sides said they will allow aid deliveries to the Tigray region, where millions of people desperately need food and medicines.
*) Live blog: Intense fighting continues in Donetsk region — Ukraine
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says fighting in the eastern Donetsk region has intensified in recent days.
The clashes end the relative calm that had briefly followed Moscow’s annexation of Doneskt and three other regions in September.
Russia has sought to control the wider Donbass region in eastern Ukraine, which contains the country’s industrial hub.
*) Slovenia elects first female president Pirc Musar in run-off
Liberal rights advocate Natasa Pirc Musar [NATASA PIRS MUSAHR] has won a run-off to become Slovenia's first female head of state.
Pirc Musar will be the first woman to serve as president since Slovenia became independent amid the breakup of Yugoslavia in 1991.
A prominent lawyer, Pirc Musar had represented former US first lady Melania Trump in copyright and other cases in her native Slovenia.
*) England beat Pakistan to win T20 World Cup final by 5 wickets
England beat Pakistan by five wickets to win the Twenty20 World Cup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.
Ben Stokes and Sam Curran starred with the bat and bowl respectively as England edged Pakistan in the final of the cricket tournament.
Enlgand have become the sport's first dual white-ball champions, holding both the 50- and 20-over titles.
*) Ukraine liberates dozens of towns
Ukraine says dozens more towns and villages have been liberated in the south of the country.
It comes as Ukrainian forces continue their advance towards the strategically vital city of Kherson.
Russians have announced they're withdrawing from the city but there's considerable scepticism about that.
*) Leaders of Turkic nations meet in Uzbekistan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is among leaders from the Organization of Turkic States attending the OTS summit in Samarkand.
The theme of the summit will be “New Era for Turkish Civilization: Towards Common Development and Prosperity.”
At the summit important decisions will be taken that will form the first five-year implementation guide of the vision document, which constitutes the 20-year roadmap of the organisation.
Addressing the summit, Erdogan said the bloc has accepted the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus as an observer state.
*) Biden to meet Xi
US President Biden will meet his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, on the sidelines of next week's G20 summit in Indonesia.
This will be the first face-to-face meeting between the two since Biden took office, though they have talked via video conference.
Relations between the two largest economies have grown worse. That's as tensions rise over Taiwan and China's growing political and military presence around the world.
*) Russian hackers behind medical record theft: Australian police
Russian hackers are behind a cyberattack on a major Australian healthcare company that breached the data of 9.7 million people, including the country's prime minister, police say.
The hackers started leaking the data earlier this week after Medibank -- the country's largest health insurer -- refused to pay a 9.7 million dollars ransom.
Australian Federal Police commissioner Reece Kershaw blames the attack on Russia-based "cyber criminals".
And finally…
*) Paul Allen's art collection fetches record $1.5B at auction
Five dozen works from Paul Cezanne, Vincent van Gogh and other revered artists fetch $1.5 billion at an auction.
The auction is part of the vast collection of paintings and sculpture amassed by late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.
The total represented the highest amount ever collected at a single art auction, according to the auction house, Christie's in New York.
Proceeds will be donated to philanthropic causes in accordance with the wishes of Allen, who died in 2018.
*) Republicans closer to secure House majority
The Republicans are nudging closer to winning enough seats to gain a majority in the US House of Representatives, but control of the Senate is still up for grabs.
The outcome will affect President Joe Biden's ability to push his agenda through a highly partisan Congress.
The Senate race in Georgia will go into a run-off next month. According to the latest numbers, the Democrats and the Republicans both have 48 seats. The parties need to gain 51 seats to control the Senate.
*) Russia orders troops to pull out of Kherson
Russia's military has ordered its troops to pull out of the Ukrainian city of Kherson.
It is a significant setback for the Kremlin as Kherson was the only regional capital to fall to Russia after the offensive began in February.
Military officials reportedly admit they can no longer supply troops defending the city and say they'll build defensive positions on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River.
*) ICC briefs UNSC on Libya
The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has updated the UN Security Council on the discovery and verification of mass graves in Libya.
Karim Khan has met families of suspected victims at the site of mass graves during his visit. He believes crimes against humanity have been committed in Libya.
International teams have so far discovered more than 270 bodies in mass graves around the town of Tarhuna, a former stronghold for warlord Khalifa Haftar.
*) Hackers demand $10 mn for stolen Australian health records
Hackers are demanding 10 million dollars to stop leaking highly sensitive records stolen from a major Australian healthcare company, as they uploaded yet more intimate details about customers.
Medibank, Australia's largest private health insurer, confirmed this week that hackers had accessed the information of 9.7 million current and former clients, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The hackers on Thursday uploaded a second batch of files to a dark web forum, with more sensitive details about hundreds of Medibank customers.
And finally…
*) Cryptocurrency markets suffer heavy losses
Cryptocurrency markets suffer heavy losses, with bitcoin pinned near a two-year low as investors fretted about the fallout from the implosion of crypto exchange FTX.
Larger rival Binance walked away from a bailout deal after due diligence.
FTX head Sam Bankman-Fried says he is "exploring all the options", but fading hopes for rescue left FTX teetering.
*) Results pour in from US midterm elections
It's a crucial day for US President Joe Biden and his Democratic party, as results begin to come in for the 2022 midterm elections.
Republicans have taken a sizable lead in the race to control the US House of Representatives, with incomplete results showing a significant lead over Democrats.
In all, Republicans have won 158 seats in the chamber, compared to 98 for Democrats.
While the margins are likely to change as results are tabulated, a forecast from the New York Times puts chances of Republican control of the House at 74 percent.
*) Over $1T needed for climate action
More than one trillion dollars a year is needed for climate action.
That's according to a report released to coincide with talks on climate financing at the COP 27 conference in Egypt.
Political leaders from industrialised countries are coming under increasing pressure to fund the transition of the developing world to renewable energy.
*) Deadly quake strikes Nepal, rattles New Delhi
An earthquake of magnitude 6.6 strikes Nepal, killing at least six people, destroying multiple houses in the western district of Doti and shaking the Indian capital New Delhi.
Five other people are seriously injured as eight houses collapsed early on Wednesday, officials says.
Local media showed visuals of mud and brick houses destroyed by the quake and rescuers digging through the rubble to look for survivors.
*) Fresh Ebola outbreak in Uganda
Schools across Uganda will close after 23 Ebola cases were confirmed among pupils - including eight children who died.
The education minister says preschools, primary schools and secondary schools will shut from November 25th, two weeks before the end of term.
On Saturday, the government extended a three-week lockdown in several districts which have been at the centre of the Ebola outbreak.
The World Health Organization says Uganda had registered more than 150 confirmed and probable cases, including 64 deaths.
And finally…
*) US basketball star being moved to Russian penal colony
Russia is moving detained US basketball star Brittney Griner to a penal colony, her lawyers say, drawing a sharp rebuke from the White House.
Griner, convicted for possession of a small quantity of cannabis oil, was transferred out of a detention center on November 4 and "is now on her way to a penal colony," her legal team said in a statement.
*) UN to build $3B global early warning system
The United Nations unveils a five-year plan to build a global early warning system for deadly and costly extreme weather events amplified by climate crisis.
The price tag – a relatively modest $3.1 billion, or less than 50 cents per person – is a small price to pay for proven methods that can save thousands, if not millions, of lives, UN chief Antonio Guterres says at the COP27 climate summit in Egypt.
World leaders are in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheikh for the 13-day talks on climate crisis.
*) US voters head to polls for mid-term elections
Voters across the US will head to the polls later on Tuesday, for crucial mid-term elections.
President Joe Biden's Democratic Party currently controls both the Senate and the House of Representatives. But the Republicans are optimistic about winning both chambers of Congress.
Meanwhile, Biden’s approval rating slipped to 39 percent just ahead of the elections.
*) US, Russia communication channels are open
The US National Security Adviser has confirmed that communication channels between Washington and Moscow, have remained open throughout its attack on Ukraine.
Jake Sullivan said it was "in the interests" of the US to maintain contact with the Kremlin.
The announcement comes as Ukraine warned that Russia is preparing new attacks on the country's infrastructure, particularly energy.
*) Ethiopia, Tigray rebels set up hotline
The Ethiopian government and Tigrayan forces have established a telephone hotline to maintain last week's ceasefire.
Both sides on Monday met in Kenya for a new round of talks mediated by the African Union. The truce marks a diplomatic breakthrough. raising hopes for humanitarian aid to the Tigray region.
The war has killed thousands, displaced millions, and has left thousands more facing famine.
*) Garcia beats Sabalenka in straight sets
Caroline Garcia took a tight first set and went on to a 7-6(4), 6-4 victory over Aryna Sabalenka to win the championship of the WTA Finals.
The sixth-ranked Garcia became the second Frenchwoman on Monday night to win the season-ending event after Amelie Mauresmo in 2005.
Garcia matched Sabalenka's power from the start in her fourth victory of the season.
*) United Nations Climate Change Conference kicks off
Leaders and delegates from 190 countries are in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt for the UN's Climate Summit.
During the 12-day meeting, they hope to get new commitments for reducing global heating and helping underdeveloped countries adapt to clean energy.
As the summit gets under way, UN chief Antonio Guterres said the collective commitments of G20 governments are coming far too little and far too late.
*) Tanzania plane crash kills 19 people
At least 19 people have been killed after a passenger plane crashed in Tanzania.
The aircraft operated by the Tanzanian company Precision Air was flying from the capital Dar es Salam when it plunged into Lake Victoria while trying to land at the lakeside town of Bukoba.
The airline says 43 people were on board and that 24 survived. The accident has been blamed on bad weather, with passengers talking about turbulence just before the crash.
*) Russia preparing new attacks: Ukraine
Ukraine says Russia is preparing new attacks on the country's infrastructure, particularly energy, which Moscow has been concentrating on for the past month.
Almost 40 percent of Ukraine's energy infrastructure has already been destroyed, and Kiev's mayor is now warning residents they may have no access to electricity, water or heating this winter. The very coldest months are of course still to come, and Mayor Vitali Klitschko says people should be prepared to leave if there is a total blackout.
*) Charity vessel refuses to leave Italian port
A charity ship is refusing to leave the Italian port of Catania until all its passengers are allowed to disembark.
Humanity 1 has been picking up migrants and refugees from the Mediterranean, but has spent two weeks seeking permission to dock.
Italian officials allowed only 357 of 572 irregular migrants on board, according to local media.
And finally…
*) Sabalenka stuns Swiatek to reach WTA Finals
Aryna Sabalenka stuns world number one Iga Swiatek 6-2 2-6 6-1 to set up a WTA Finals championship showdown with Caroline Garcia after the Frenchwoman cruised past Maria Sakkari in Fort Worth, Texas.
Swiatek had not dropped a set at the season-ending tournament but was subdued by the powerful forehand of the Belarusian, who sealed the massive upset with one of her 12 aces before pumping her fist in triumph.
*) Pakistan’s ex-PM Khan recovers in hospital after assassination attempt
Pakistani former prime minister Imran Khan was recovering in hospital after an assassination attempt that left him with a gunshot wound to the leg.
His doctor Faisal Sultan said Khan "was stable and he was doing fine" at Shaukat Khanum hospital in the eastern city of Lahore.
The attack on his convoy killed one man and wounded at least 10 others.
Khan’s party said it would hold country-wide protests on Friday as tensions remained high in the South Asian nation.
*) Millions without power after Russian strikes — Zelenskyy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Thursday that Russia's campaign against Ukraine's energy network has left around 4.5 million people without power.
The two sides' forces continued to battle without significant change on the ground on the eastern and southern Ukraine fronts, with preparations building for a fight over the southern hub of Kherson.
Shipments of Ukraine grain to global markets meanwhile resumed after Moscow returned to the Turkiye-brokered grain export deal.
*) NATO chief hails Türkiye's support to Ukraine, role in fight against terror
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg has hailed Türkiye's support to Ukraine, Ankara support during the conflict has reduced "some of the effects of brutal war."
After his meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Istanbul, he said Türkiye as a highly valued NATO ally is making important contributions to the alliance’s shared security.
Cavusoglu for his part said the Black Sea grain export deal needs to be renewed in 20 days and affirmed Türkiye's continued efforts to ensure that the deal remains uninterrupted.
*) Millions of people on the verge of hunger in South Sudan
Almost eight million people in South Sudan, or two thirds of the population in the deeply-troubled country, are at risk of hunger.
United Nations has warned in a report that around 7.76 million people are likely to face acute food insecurity during the April-July 2023 lean season.
It said 1.4 million children will be malnourished in the east African country during that period.
And finally…
*) Swiatek downs Garcia at WTA Finals
World number one Iga Swiatek beats Caroline Garcia 6-3, 6-2 to clinch a semi-final spot at the WTA Finals.
France's Garcia can still advance with a victory on Saturday against Daria Kasatkina, who eliminated Coco Gauff from semi-final contention with over fourth-ranked American.
Swiatek, who hasn't dropped a set in two round-robin matches, said she's feeling no pressure as she caps a year that has so far featured eight titles.
*) Japan orders residents to shelter as North Korea missiles soar again
North Korea has continued its barrage of weapons tests by firing at least three missiles including a suspected intercontinental ballistic missile or ICBM.
The missile launch forced the Japanese government to issue evacuation alerts and temporarily halt trains.
Thursday's launches came a day after Pyongyang fired more than 20 missiles, the most it has fired in a single day ever.
*) World hails Ethiopia's truce deal with Tigray rebels
Ethiopian government and Tigray rebels have agreed to cease hostilities.
World leaders hailed the ceasefire, which is a surprise diplomatic breakthrough after nearly two years of conflict.
The conflict has killed thousands and displaced millions and left hundreds of thousands facing famine.
*) Türkiye's Erdogan: Grain deal will prioritise African countries in need
The Türkiye-brokered grain deal will prioritise African countries in need as agreed with Russian President Vladimir Putin, says Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The US and the United Nations thanked Türkiye over the resumption of the deal. Erdogan announced Russia’s return to the deal on Wednesday.
On Saturday, Russia had announced that it would suspend its participation in the deal over what it alleged was a Ukrainian attack on its Black Sea fleet.
*) Elon Musk intends to cut half of Twitter jobs – report
Elon Musk plans to cut about 3,700 jobs at Twitter or half of the company's workforce in a bid to cut costs.
According to Bloomberg News, Twitter's new owner will inform the staff affected by his decision.
Bloomberg also reported that Musk intends to reverse Twitter’s work from anywhere policy and will require employees to work from the office.
And finally…
*) Lawsuit dropped over Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You'
Country singer Andy Stone dropped his lawsuit against Mariah Carey for copyright infringement over her hit song “All I Want for Christmas is You”.
The popstar was sued by Stone in June, claiming he co-wrote a song with the same title five years earlier.
Mariah Carey's mega-hit song is one of the best known Christmas single of all time.
*) Exit polls show Netanyahu's bloc ahead in Israel elections
Exit polls in Israel have indicated that ex-PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies may have won enough seats to return to power after three and a half years of political gridlock.
Palestinians said the possible outcome reflects "growing extremism and racism in Israeli society."
The polls on Tuesday are preliminary, however, and final results could change as votes are tallied in the coming hours.
*) Sirens blare in South Korea after North fires about 12 missiles
Air raid sirens have sounded in South Korea after the North fired about a dozen missiles in its direction, at least one of them landing near the rivals' tense sea border.
Wednesday's launches came hours after North Korea threatened to use nuclear weapons to get the US and South Korea to what it said "pay the most horrible price in history.
North Korea’s threat came as it has intensified its fiery rhetoric targeting the ongoing large-scale military drills between its rivals.
*) Türkiye believes Black Sea grain deal will endure
Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar says he believes the Black Sea grain deal that Russia suspended over the weekend would continue.
Akar’s statement comes after his two phone calls in as many days with his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu. He said there is progress in this direction.
*) Brazil top court: Bolsonaro concedes election defeat by allowing transition
Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro has recognised the result of the presidential election he lost to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva by authorising the start of government transition.
A Supreme Court spokesperson on Tuesday said that Bolsonaro was heading to the tribunal to meet justices.
Earlier, Bolsonaro didn’t concede defeat during his first speech after the election results, but he said he will continue to follow the rules of the nation's constitution.
And finally…
*) Elon Musk: Twitter will charge $8 a month for blue tick
New Twitter head Elon Musk says the site will charge 8 dollars per month to verify users' accounts.
He argued the plan would upend what he called the platform's "current lords & peasants system" and that it will create a new revenue stream for the company.
Tuesday's announcement comes days after the world's wealthiest man took sole control of the social media giant in a contentious 44 billion dollars deal.
*) Türkiye urges Russia to reconsider grain deal suspension
Türkiye's National Defence Minister Hulusi Akar has urged Russia to rethink its decision to suspend the Black Sea grain deal.
The grain shipment initiative is a purely humanitarian activity that should be separated from conflict conditions, Akar has told his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu over the phone.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said Türkiye will continue its efforts to find a solution to the global food crisis despite Russia suspending its participation in the deal.
*) Israelis go to polls as political crisis grinds on
For the fifth time since 2019, Israelis have been voting in national elections amid a political deadlock that has paralysed the country for the past three and a half years.
Polls have predicted a similar result: stalemate. But a powerful new player is threatening to shake things up.
Itamar Ben-Gvir, a leading far-right politician, has surged in opinion polls recently and will be seeking a harder line against the Palestinians if he helps propel former leader Benjamin Netanyahu to victory.
*) Joint Sochi deal reaffirms compliance to normalisation and regional peace
The presidents of Russia and Azerbaijan and the prime minister of Armenia have reaffirmed their commitment to normalisation of Baku-Yerevan ties, and to peace and stability in the South Caucasus.
After trilateral talks in Russia's Sochi, all parties agreed on the importance of creating a positive dialogue atmosphere between Azerbaijan and Armenia, according to a joint statement.
Russian President Vladimir Putin underlined that parties could not agree on everything concerning Karabakh, adding that Moscow will do everything for a final settlement between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
*) North Korea warns of ‘powerful’ response to US, allies drills
North Korea has criticised the US for expanding joint military exercises with South Korea and warned of “more powerful follow-up measures” in response.
The development comes as the US and South Korea conduct drills involving more than 200 warplanes as they step up their defence posture in the face of North Korea’s increased weapons testing.
North Korea has ramped up its weapons demonstrations to a record pace this year, launching more than 40 ballistic missiles.
*) Elon Musk says he will be Twitter CEO
Billionaire Elon Musk has said in a filing that he will be the chief executive officer of Twitter, the social media company he recently acquired for $44 billion.
Elon Musk, who also runs Tesla Inc and SpaceX, fired Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal and other top company officials last week.
Musk previously changed his Twitter bio to "Chief Twit" in a sign alluding to this move.
*) Lula defeats Bolsonaro in tight Brazil election
Leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has won Brazil's divisive election, defeating incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in a narrow vote.
With more than 99 percent of the votes tallied in run-off vote, da Silva had 50.9 percent and Bolsonaro 49.1 percent.
Brazil’s Supreme Electoral Court said the country’s presidential election was “mathematically defined” with former president Lula da Silva taking more votes than incumbent Bolsonaro.
*) Türkiye, Ukraine, UN ‘agree to move 16 vessels’ in grain deal
The United Nations, Türkiye and Ukraine agreed on a movement plan for 16 vessels that are in Turkish waters, a day after Russia suspended its participation in the Istanbul grain deal.
The Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) in Istanbul, where Russian, Ukrainian, Turkish and UN personnel are working, said the three delegations agreed for inspections to be provided on Monday to 40 outbound vessels.
*) Death toll rises as officials recover bodies in India bridge collapse
At least 141 people were killed after a century-old cable suspension bridge collapsed into a river in the western Indian state of Gujarat, sending hundreds plunging in the water.
Authorities said the bridge over the Machchu river in the state’s Morbi district collapsed because it could not handle the weight of the large crowd, as the Hindu festival season drew hundreds of people to the recently opened tourist attraction.
The bridge had been closed for renovation for almost six months and was reopened just four days ago.
*) World leaders express sadness for Seoul
World leaders expressed sadness and condolences after at least 153 people were killed in a crowd surge in Seoul, South Korea.
The tragedy occurred in Seoul’s Itaewon district during Halloween festivities when a huge crowd surged into a narrow downhill alley last Saturday.
At least 22 foreign nationals from 13 countries were among those killed.
*) Twitter to revise how it verifies users: Musk
Twitter will revise its user verification process, Elon Musk said in a tweet, days after he took over one of the world's most influential social media platforms.
Musk said in a tweet, "Whole verification process is being revamped right now."
Twitter is considering charging for the coveted blue check mark verifying the identity of its account holder, technology newsletter Platformer reported.
*) Elon Musk takes over Twitter, sacks top executives
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has taken over Twitter and immediately sacked its top executives.
Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal was among the executives terminated by Musk, who formally completed the 44-billion-dollar buyout deal on Friday.
Musk had a court-imposed Friday deadline to complete the Twitter deal he had inked in April.
*) IAEA to conduct 'independent' probe into Ukraine dirty bomb allegations
The UN's nuclear watchdog will this week carry out an "independent verification" of Russian allegations concerning the production of so-called dirty bombs at two sites in Ukraine.
Russia has accused Ukraine of preparing to use such a weapon against Moscow's troops, but Kiev suspects Russia might itself use a dirty bomb in a "false flag" attack.
International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi said, "IAEA inspectors will conduct independent verification at these locations".
*) Parliament approves Sudani's government in Iraq
Iraqi lawmakers have approved a new government , a key step forward after bitter infighting between multiple factions and deadly violence following contested elections.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's 21-member cabinet is expected to face myriad challenges.
The oil-rich but war-ravaged country is plagued by endemic corruption, rampant unemployment and decaying infrastructure.
*) North Korea fires two ballistic missiles: South's military
North Korea has fired two short-range ballistic missiles, according to the South's military.
The launch comes as South Korea and the US conclude 12 days of joint military drills.
Such drills infuriate Pyongyang, which sees them as rehearsals for invasion. It has repeatedly justified its missile launches as necessary "countermeasures" to what it deems US aggression.
And finally…
*) Prince Harry's memoir title 'Spare' is set to come out in January
Prince Harry's memoir, which drew anticipation worldwide since first announced last year, is coming out on January 10.
The book will be called “Spare” and is being billed by Penguin Random House, as an account told with “raw, unflinching honesty" and filled with ”insight and revelation”.
The memoir's title is an apparent reference to Prince Harry's being a royal “spare,” not the first in line to succession as William, Prince of Wales, is next in line.
*) Over a dozen dead as gunmen attack shrine in Iran's Shiraz
Gunmen opened fire at a major Shia holy site in the southern city of Shiraz, killing at least 15 people and wounding dozens.
The official website of the judiciary said two gunmen were arrested and a third is on the run after Wednesday's attack on the Shah Cheragh mosque.
The state TV reported that the attack also injured 40 people.
*) Australia to train Ukraine troops in UK for 'protracted' fight
Australia says it will deploy 70 soldiers to Britain to help train Ukrainian troops there and ship 30 more armoured vehicles to bolster Kiev's fight against Russia.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said Australia is mindful that Ukraine needs to be supported over the longer term to put it in a position where it can resolve this conflict on its own terms.
The latest package takes Australia's support for Ukraine to about $425 million since the conflict began in February.
*) Türkiye, Libya sign accords to boost military cooperation
Türkiye and Libya have inked two important agreements in the field of military.
National Defense Minister Hulusi Akar on Tuesday met with Prime Minister of Tripoli-based Government of National Unity and Defense Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah in Istanbul.
The two officials signed an agreement on enhancing the efficiency of the Libyan Air Force and the training of Libyan pilots.
*) Xi: China, US must find ways to get along
President Xi Jinping has said China and the United States must "find ways to get along" to safeguard world peace and development, state media reported.
"The world today is neither peaceful nor tranquil," Xi wrote in a congratulatory letter to the National Committee on US-China Relations.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden, in a meeting with his top military advisers, said that Washington "does not seek conflict" with China and that Xi knows this.
And finally…
*) IEA sees global emissions peaking in 2025
The International Energy Agency believes that global emissions will peak in 2025.
It says surging energy prices due to the Russian attack on Ukraine have propelled investment in renewables.
The agency said that the global energy crisis is causing profound and long-lasting changes that have the potential to hasten the transition to a more sustainable and secure energy system.
*) Russia and Ukraine gird for 'heaviest of battles' in Kherson
A senior Ukrainian official predicted "the heaviest of battles" to come for the partially Russian-occupied strategic southern province of Kherson.
The adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said Russians are replenishing and strengthening their grouping in Kherson.
He said this means that nobody is preparing to withdraw their forces. On the contrary, the heaviest of battles is going to take place for Kherson, he added.
*) Powerful earthquake injures dozens in northern Philippines
A strong earthquake has rocked a large swathe of the northern Philippines, injuring at least 26 people.
Officials said the 6.4 magnitude quake also forced the closure of an international airport and the evacuation of patients in a hospital.
The US Tsunami Warning System said no warning or advisory was issued.
*) Pakistan's Khan announces 'long march' on Islamabad to press for snap polls
Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan has announced that he would begin a protest march from the eastern city of Lahore to the capital Islamabad on Friday to call for early elections.
Smaller protests by Khan's supporters took place last week after Pakistan's election body found Khan guilty of unlawfully selling gifts from foreign dignitaries, removing him from his parliamentary seat.
Since being removed from office by a no-confidence vote in the legislature in April, Khan has held protests across the country calling for snap elections
*) Ethiopia, Tigray rebels begin long-awaited peace talks in South Africa
Peace talks between an Ethiopian government delegation and Tigrayan rebel forces have started in South Africa to end the two-year-old conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region.
Spokesperson for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, told reporters that the talks, which began in Pretoria, have been convened to find a peaceful and sustainable solution to the devastating conflict.
The talks started on Tuesday and will end on Sunday.
And finally…
*) 'World's dirtiest man' dies in Iran aged 94
An Iranian man nicknamed the "dirtiest man in the world" for not taking a shower for decades has died at the age of 94.
According to the state media, Amou Haji, who did not wash for more than half a century and was single, died in the village of Dejgah in the southern province of Fars.
Haji had avoided showering over fears of "getting sick", the agency quoted a local official as saying.
*) Rishi Sunak vows 'stability and unity' as UK's next prime minister,
Britain's incoming prime minister Rishi Sunak has vowed to bring "stability and unity" at a time of economic crisis after he was named the Conservative party's new leader.
He told reporters, the United Kingdom is a great country but there is no doubt “we face a profound economic challenge,"
Sunak said the country now needs stability and unity, and he will make it his utmost priority to bring his party and his country together.
*) IAEA prepares to study Russia's 'dirty bomb' claims in Ukraine
The UN nuclear watchdog says it is preparing to send inspectors in the coming days to two Ukrainian sites at Kiev's request.
The move is an apparent reaction to Russian claims that Ukraine could deploy a so-called dirty bomb, which Ukraine denies.
The International Atomic Energy Agency's announcement follows claims by a senior Russian officer that two institutes in Ukraine linked to the nuclear industry were engaged in preparations to produce such a bomb.
*) Israel kills, wounds many Palestinians during raid
Five Palestinians were killed and 22 others injured in a raid by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank.
Palestine’s Health Ministry said the Israeli fire killed three people in Nablus and wounded 19 others.
It also reported that another Palestinian was killed by Israeli fire in Ramallah, and later, one more killed in Nablus.
*) Nine dead, million seek shelter as cyclone hits Bangladesh
At least nine people have died after a cyclone slammed into Bangladesh, forcing the evacuation of around a million people from their homes.
Cyclone Sitrang made landfall in southern Bangladesh late Monday but authorities managed to get about a million people to safety before the monster weather system hit.
Cyclones are a regular menace but scientists say the climate crisis is likely making them more intense and frequent.
*) King cobra escape shuts down Swedish zoo
A Swedish zoo has been partially shut down after a king cobra staged an impressive escape from its enclosure, with staff still searching for the venomous vagrant.
The snake escaped through a lamp fixture in a terrarium and was believed to be somewhere in an inner ceiling.
The cobra had only been brought to the zoo a few days earlier.
*) Live blog: Ukraine, US reject Russia's 'false' dirty bomb allegations
Top US and Ukrainian diplomats have rejected Russia's claims of preparing to use a "dirty bomb" by Ukrainian authorities on its own territory.
Separately US Secretary of State Antony Blinken released a statement underlining Washington's continued support to Ukraine.
Britain and France also dismissed Russian claims that Ukraine is preparing to use a dirty bomb and warned Moscow against using any pretext for escalating the conflict.
*) Ex-UK leader Boris Johnson announces dropping out of PM contest
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that he will not run to lead the Conservative Party, ending intense speculation about his comeback.
Johnson said although he believed he was well-placed to deliver another Conservative victory in the 2024 general election, he was standing aside in the interests of party unity.
Johnson was ousted in July amid ethics scandals. He was widely expected to run to replace Liz Truss, who quit last week.
*) North, South Korea trade fire over violation of maritime border
The rival Koreas have exchanged warning shots along their disputed western sea boundary amid heightened tensions over North Korea’s recent barrage of weapons tests.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said that its navy fired warning shots to repel a North Korean merchant ship that it says violated the Northern Limit Line.
North Korea’s military said it has responded by firing 10 rounds of artillery shells as a warning to South Korea. It accused a South Korean navy ship of intruding into North Korean waters.
*) Erdogan: Western human rights defenders ignore PKK terror victims
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has slammed the failure of Western human rights defenders to do anything to help families whose children were kidnapped by the PKK terrorist group.
Since September 3, 2019, families whose children were allegedly abducted or forcibly recruited by the PKK have camped outside offices of the Peoples’ Democratic Party in Türkiye’s southeastern city of Diyarbakir.
The Turkish government says the party has links with the terror group, and is currently facing a closure case in the nation’s highest court.
*) Verstappen beats Hamilton, becomes US Grand Prix champion
Red Bull's driver Max Verstappen, who recently secured the 2022 Formula 1 title in Japan, has won the US Grand Prix.
Verstappen beat Mercedes’ driver Lewis Hamilton at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas and also helped Red Bull win the constructors' title this year.
Hamilton came in second as the gap between him and Verstappen was five seconds.
*) PM Truss resigns as UK political turmoil deepens amid new election demand
British Prime Minister Liz Truss has dramatically announced her resignation just six weeks after taking office.
Truss bowed to the inevitable after her right-wing platform of tax cuts disintegrated and many MPs among the ruling Conservatives revolted.
Speaking in Downing Street, Truss said she would stay on as prime minister until a successor is chosen to serve as Tory leader.
*) Israeli troops kill Palestinian youth, wound three in West Bank
Israeli troops have killed a Palestinian youth and wounded three others in the occupied West Bank, Palestine's Health Ministry said.
The ministry said the 19-year-old suffered a mortal wound in the neck, while three others were wounded by live gunshots to their limbs.
The violence happened as Israeli forces staged an arrest raid in Jenin refugee camp in the northern West Bank that has been a flash point in recent fighting.
*) Bloodbath as Chad forces kill scores in protests
Security forces in Chad opened fire on anti-government demonstrators in the country's two largest cities killing at least 60 people and wounding some 300, government spokesperson said.
Prime Minister Saleh Kebzabo said the government was still compiling casualties from what he described as an armed insurrection.
Authorities imposed a curfew after the violence, which came amid demonstrations in the central African nation against interim leader Mahamat Idriss Deby's extension of his power.
*) Türkiye's Erdogan, Azerbaijan's Aliyev inaugurate Zangilan airport
Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Azerbaijani counterpart Ilham Aliyev jointly inaugurated a new airport in an area liberated from the Armenian occupation.
Erdogan is the first foreign leader to land at the Zangilan International Airport, Azerbaijan’s second airport in territories reclaimed from Armenia during the 2020 Karabakh War.
In October 2021, Erdogan joined Aliyev in the official opening of the Fuzuli International Airport.
And finally…
*) Yusuf Islam electrifies fans in his first Türkiye concert
British musician Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, performed before a cheering audience in Istanbul.
The concert was part of the Beyoglu Cultural Road Festival organised by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, at the Ataturk Cultural Center.
The artist, who left his mark on the 1960s and 1970s with his albums and chose to become a Muslim in 1977, met with music lovers.
*) Putin declares martial law in four annexed regions of Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree to impose martial law in the Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions, recently annexed from Ukraine.
Putin said residents of these territories "clearly expressed their will when voted in favour of joining Russia."
He added that Kiev refuses to accept the results of the referendums in the annexed regions and carries out acts of sabotage on Russia's territory.
*) Ukraine accuses Iran of breaching UN ban on drone transfers
Ukraine has accused Iran of violating a UN Security Council ban on the transfer of drones capable of flying 300 kilometres.
Kiev has invited UN experts to visit the country to inspect Iranian-origin drones allegedly being used by Russia against targets.
Ukraine's UN Ambassador tweeted that the issue of Iranian drones used against civilians will be raised at an open council meeting in Ukraine on Friday.
*) UK's interior minister resigns after breaching government rules
Britain's interior minister has resigned, saying she had to go after she breached government rules.
Suella Braverman, however, said she had concerns over the direction of Prime Minister Liz Truss's government.
She is the second senior minister to leave the government in less than a week, heaping more pressure on Truss as she fights to stay in power just over six weeks after she entered Downing Street.
*) Malaysia to go to polls on Nov. 19
Malaysia will hold a general election on November 19 in a contest that the ruling party hopes would strengthen its hold on power.
Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob dissolved parliament on October 10th and called for snap polls, saying an election would end years of political instability.
The polls come earlier than the September 2023 deadline and during the annual monsoon season that has already triggered floods across Malaysia and is expected to affect voter turnout.
And finally…
*) First Native American woman in space awed by Mother Earth
The first Native American woman in space says she is overwhelmed by the beauty and delicacy of Mother Earth.
NASA astronaut Nicole Mann said from the International Space Station that she’s received lots of prayers and blessings from her family and tribal community.
Mann, 45, a Marine colonel and test pilot who was born in California, , said she is channeling “positive energy” as her five-month mission gets underway.
*) Lafarge pleads guilty to supporting Daesh, agrees to pay $778M fine
French cement maker Lafarge has pleaded guilty to a US charge that it made payments to groups designated as terrorists by the United States, including Daesh.
The admission in Brooklyn federal court marked the first time a company has pleaded guilty in the US to charges of providing material support to a terrorist organisation.
Lafarge acknowledged that it paid nearly 12.8 million dollars to middlemen to keep its Syrian cement factory running in 2013 and 2014.
*) Biden to release 15 mln barrels from US oil reserves: official
US President Joe Biden will announce Wednesday that he's putting the final 15 million barrels on the market from a record release of US strategic oil reserves.
The new tranche of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve will be completing the 180 million barrel release authorised in the spring.
The US decision to release oil from its reserves came in response to price hikes linked to Russia's offensive in Ukraine, a senior US official said.
*) Germany's cybersecurity chief sacked over links with Russian intelligence
The head of Germany's national cybersecurity agency has been dismissed following reports of possible ties to Russian intelligence.
The Interior Ministry said that the head of the BSI agency was dismissed following the allegations, which "damaged the necessary confidence of the public in the neutrality and impartiality" of his management.
*) Pakistan backs Saudi Arabia after OPEC+ output cut riles US
Pakistan has thrown its weight behind longtime ally Saudi Arabia amid an ongoing rift over global oil production cuts and the US threatening Riyadh with consequences.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said that in context of the OPEC Plus decision, Islamabad expresses solidarity with the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan’s statement comes amid rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and the US, which had strongly opposed the proposed oil production cuts by the kingdom-led oil cartel.
And finally…
*) Netflix subscriber numbers re-ignite after chilly start to year
Netflix says it has gained more than 2 million subscribers in the recent quarter, calming investor fears that the streaming giant was losing paying customers.
The company said it ended the third quarter with slightly more than 223 million subscribers worldwide, after seeing subscriber ranks ebb during the first half of the year.
Netflix shares shot up more than 14 percent in after hours trading to $275 on the earnings news.
*) US warns of sanctions over Iran drone ties after Kiev strikes
The United States has warned it would take action against companies and nations working with Iran's drone programme after Russia used the imports for deadly kamikaze strikes in Kiev.
State Department spokesperson said, "Anyone doing business with Iran that could have any link to UAVs or ballistic missile developments or the flow of arms from Iran to Russia should be very careful and do their due diligence.”
He added that the US will not hesitate to use sanctions or take actions against perpetrators.
*) Türkiye criticises Greece's 'shameless' mistreatment of refugees
Türkiye has lashed out at Greece for falsely accusing Ankara of mistreating refugees, calling Athens "shameless.”
Turkish Foriegn Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Greece is known for its record on violations of international law, therefore, it is natural for Greece to attempt to slander Türkiye as its own crimes multiply.
Cavusoglu was addressing a news conference after a meeting in Istanbul of foreign ministers of the Council of Turkic States.
*) UK's Truss apologises for economic mistakes, will 'stick around'
Britain's Prime Minister Liz Truss has apologised for what she called "mistakes" in her programme that caused investor confidence to evaporate and her poll ratings to plunge.
Truss told the BBC she accepts responsibility and that she is sorry for the mistakes that have been made.
She added that she wanted to act to help people with their energy bills to deal with the issue of high taxes, but her administration “went too far and too fast.”
*) Australia walks back recognition of West Jerusalem as Israeli capital — FM
Australia has reversed the previous government's recognition of West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
It said the issue should be resolved as part of peace talks between Israel and Palestine.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said that Australia is committed to a two-state solution in which Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist in peace and security.
*) Benzema, Putellas win 2022 Ballon d’Or awards
Karim Benzema has won the men’s Ballon d’Or for the first time after a brilliant season with Real Madrid capped by the Champions League and Spanish league titles.
Spanish player Alexia Putellas won the women’s trophy for the second straight year following another standout season with Barcelona.
Benzema had his best season ever at Madrid, being the top scorer in both leagues. He scored 44 times for Madrid, including 15 in Europe’s top competition.
*) Ukrainian presidency says Kiev attacked by 'kamikaze drones'
Ukraine says its capital Kiev has been attacked by "kamikaze drones" after several explosions were heard in the central Shevchenko district of the capital.
Ukrainian president's chief of staff Andriy Yermak said the Russians think it will help them, but it shows their desperation.
The explosions come exactly a week after Russian missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital.
*) Rebels in Ethiopia's Tigray announces they will abide ceasefire
Insurgents in Ethiopia's rebel-held Tigray region have announced that they would respect a ceasefire as fighting intensified in the country's war-torn north.
International concern is growing around the fate of Shire, a city of 100,000 people in northwest Tigray, where Ethiopian and Eritrean troops have launched a joint offensive.
The UN chief joined the United States and other Western powers in voicing alarm over the worsening violence and called for a peaceful settlement to the conflict.
*) UK parliamentarians readying to force Liz Truss to resign — report
British lawmakers will try to oust Prime Minister Liz Truss this week despite Downing Street's warning that it could trigger a general election, according to local media.
More than 100 members of parliament belonging to the governing Conservative Party are ready to submit letters of no confidence in Truss to the head of the Conservative Party's committee.
Britain has lost three prime ministers since it voted to leave the European Union in 2016.
*) Floods in Nigeria claim over 600 lives — government
More than 600 people are now known to have perished in the worst floods in a decade in Nigeria.
Nigeria's ministry of humanitarian affairs said that the disaster has also forced more than 1.3 million from their homes.
The flooding also completely destroyed more than 82,000 houses and nearly 110,000 hectares of farmland.
*) Mbappe rules out reports suggesting 'asked to leave' PSG
Kylian Mbappe has insisted that he "never asked to leave" Paris Saint-Germain despite widespread reports that he would seek a move away from the club as soon as possible.
The 23-year-old France superstar was speaking in the wake of PSG's 1-0 win over Marseille, in which he set up Neymar for the only goal as his side moved three points clear at the top of Ligue 1.
Mbappe said, "I am very happy. I have never asked to leave in January," insisting that he was not "implicated directly or indirectly" in the rumours about his future.
*) Palestine's Fatah, Hamas sign 'historic' reconciliation deal in Algeria
Palestinian factions have signed an agreement in Algiers aimed at resolving 15 years of discord by holding elections within a year after months of talks mediated by Algeria.
The deal aims to end a rift between President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah movement and Hamas that has split Palestinian governance in besieged Gaza from the occupied West Bank.
It also stipulates elections for the Palestinian National Council, a parliament for Palestinians including the millions-strong diaspora.
*) Lebanon endorses maritime border deal with Israel
Lebanon has approved a US-brokered maritime border deal with Israel, unlocking significant offshore gas production for the eastern Mediterranean neighbours.
Announcing the approval of the deal, Lebanese President Michel Aoun described it as a "historic achievement".
He said Lebanon was able to recover a disputed area of 860 square kilometres under the agreement.
*) Iraq gets new president, PM after months of political gridlock
Iraq now has a new president and prime minister after a year of political gridlock and violence in the war-scarred nation.
Abdul Latif Rashid, 78, replaces Barham Saleh as head of state after the two-round vote in parliament on Thursday, winning more than 160 votes against 99 for Saleh. After the vote, Iraq's newly elected president named Mohammed Shia al Sudani as prime minister-designate.
*) Residents in 'annexed' Kherson begin fleeing to Russia
Evacuees from Ukraine's southern Kherson region are expected to begin arriving in Russia after a Moscow-installed official suggested residents should leave for safety.
The development is seen as a sign of Moscow's weakening hold on territory it claims to have annexed.
The first civilians fleeing from Kherson were due to arrive in Russia's Rostov region on Friday, according to the TASS news agency.
And finally…
*) More than 600,000 tickets sold for T20 World Cup
More than 600,000 tickets have been sold for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia.
The global showpiece starts on Sunday at the preliminary stage, before the big guns join in from October 22.
Seven Australian cities are hosting the tournament.
*) UN condemns Russia's 'illegal annexation' of Ukraine territories
The UN General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly to condemn what it called Russia's "attempted illegal annexation" of four Ukrainian regions..
It demanded that Moscow immediately reverse its actions.
The vote in the 193-member world body was 143-5 with 35 abstentions, the strongest support from the General Assembly for Ukraine and against Russia.
*) Saudi Arabia rejects framing OPEC+ oil cut decision as political
Saudi Arabia has rejected as "not based on facts" statements criticising the kingdom after an OPEC+ decision to cut its oil production target despite US objections.
The OPEC+ decision was adopted through consensus, took into account the balance of supply and demand and was aimed at curbing market volatility, the Saudi foreign ministry said.
US President Joe Biden pledged earlier that "there will be consequences" for US relations with Saudi Arabia after oil production’s cut.
*) Türkiye's aim is to stop bloodshed in Russia-Ukraine conflict: President
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Türkiye's aim is to stop bloodshed in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict as soon as possible despite hurdles.
Speaking at the sixth summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia, Erdogan said "Our goal is to continue the momentum gained despite the difficulties on the ground.”
He added that Türkiye's intensive efforts with the UN and the two parties to the conflict to curb the negative effects of the war have gained the appreciation of the entire world.
*) North Korea's Kim warns 'enemies' after cruise missile tests
North Korea has test-fired a pair of strategic long-range cruise missiles in the latest of a flurry of drills to highlight its tactical nuclear capability.
The country’s leader Kim Jong-un expressed "great satisfaction" as he oversaw the test firing of these missiles that travelled 2,000 kilometres over the sea.
Kim said the country should continue to expand the operational sphere of the nuclear strategic armed forces to resolutely deter any war crisis at any time.
And finally…
*) Football ace Salah sets Champions League record with fastest hat-trick
Mohamed Salah has come off the bench to score the fastest-ever hat-trick in Champions League history as Liverpool routed Rangers 7-1 at Ibrox.
The Egyptian came on in the second half with his team-leading 3-1 and proceeded to fire a stunning treble in just six minutes and 12 seconds to set a new benchmark in the competition.
Bafetimbi Gomis previously held the record from 2011 when he took eight minutes to complete his hat-trick.
*) G7 leaders vow to hold Putin accountable for Ukraine missile strikes
World powers have said that they would hold Russian leader Vladimir Putin responsible for recent widespread aerial strikes on Ukrainian cities including Kiev.
The G7 condemned the attacks in the strongest possible terms, saing indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute a war crime.
The G7 leaders also criticised Russia's "irresponsible nuclear rhetoric".
*) Turkish president heads to Kazakhstan for talks, regional summit
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has departed for the Kazakh capital Astana to meet with his counterpart Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and to participate in a regional summit.
Erdogan and Tokayev will hold one-on-one talks and attend inter-delegation meetings to discuss bilateral relations and international issues after an official welcoming ceremony.
Erdogan is expected to meet participating leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, on the sideline of the summit
*) Biden warns of 'consequences' for Saudi Arabia over OPEC+ oil cuts
US President Joe Biden has promised what he called “consequences” for Saudi Arabia after a Riyadh-led coalition of oil-producing nations sided with Russia to cut output in a bid to boost prices.
The 13-nation OPEC cartel and its 10 allies angered the White House last week with its decision to cut production by two million barrels a day, raising fears that oil prices could soar. Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister said on Tuesday that the OPEC+ decision was purely economic and was taken unanimously.
*) Gambia police probe links child deaths to India-made syrups
Gambian police say the deaths of 69 children from acute kidney injury are linked to four cough syrups made in India and imported into the West African country.
World Health Organization investigators had already found "unacceptable" levels of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol, which can be toxic, in four products made by New Delhi-based Maiden Pharmaceuticals Limited.
India on Wednesday halted production of these syrups at the factory.
*) Disney pushes back several Marvel movie release dates
Walt Disney has announced that it will be pushing back the release dates for numerous upcoming Marvel films including, "Blade," "Fantastic Four" and "Avengers: Secret Wars."
Following "Blade" director Bassam Tariq's departure from the project in September, Marvel has decided to temporarily shut down production of the film to search for a new director.
Delay of Blade’s premiere has impacted the rest of the studios' production scheduling.
*) UN fears Russian strikes to provoke more displacements
The United Nations refugee chief has warned more people will be forced to flee their homes in Ukraine after Russian missiles rained down on Kiev and other Ukrainian cities.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said the bombing of civilians, of houses and of non-military infrastructure in an indiscriminate manner, means the war is becoming harder and more difficult for civilians.
Grandi said he feared that the latest events will provoke more displacements.
*) Iran enhances its ability on uranium enrichment — IAEA
Iran is rapidly expanding its ability to enrich uranium with advanced centrifuges at its underground plant at Natanz, a confidential UN nuclear watchdog report has shown.
While indirect talks between Iran and the US on reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal have stalled, Tehran has brought onstream an ever larger number of advanced centrifuges to produce enriched uranium.
These machines are far more efficient than the first-generation IR-1, the only centrifuge that the deal lets Iran use to grow its stock of enriched uranium.
*) Palestinians accuse Israelis of burning Quran as settlers storm Al Aqsa
A Palestinian official has accused Israeli settlers of burning copies of the Quran, Islam’s holy book, in the occupied West Bank city of Hebron.
Nidal Al Jabari, the director of Waqf Department in Hebron, said burnt copies of the Quran were found near the Qaytoun mosque in Hebron's Old City.
He suggested that the copies were burnt during celebrations of a Jewish holiday in recent days, calling for an investigation into the incident.
*) Hurricane Ian death toll climbs above 100 in Florida alone
The death toll from Hurricane Ian, one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the United States, has soared above 100 in Florida alone.
Homes, restaurants and businesses were ripped apart when Ian roared ashore as a powerful Category 4 hurricane on September 26.
The Florida Medical Examiners Commission confirmed that the number of storm-related fatalities rose to 102 statewide.
*) Over 200 stranded pilot whales die on Pacific Ocean's remote Pitt Island
New Zealand's conservation office has said that all 240 pilot whales stranded on the remote Pitt Island have died.
Marine technical advisor at the Department of Conservation, said a technical team had assessed the situation and euthanised the surviving whales.
He said the conservation department does not try to refloat whales in the area due to the risk of shark attack to both humans and whales.
*) Explosions rock central Kiev in apparent missile strikes
Multiple explosions rocked Kiev following months of relative calm in the Ukrainian capital.
Kiev’s mayor reported apparent Russian missile strikes in Shevchenko district, a large area in the centre of Kiev which includes the historical old town and government offices.
President Zelenskyy said that people had been killed and injured following multiple strikes on cities across Ukraine, including the bombardment of the capital.
*) Palestinians close to reaching deal with Egypt on Gaza’s gas field
The Palestine Investment Fund is close to reaching a technical deal with the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company to extract gas from the Marine gas field off the shore of Gaza.
A Palestinian source said that both sides will sign the deal at the end of 2022 under which they will agree on the distribution of shares and mechanism to sell the gas.
The source didn't give any details about Israel's position on the deal but said operating the field will be in agreement with all relevant actors.
*) Algeria, France seek to deepen ties after tensions ease
The French and Algerian prime ministers have declared a wish to "deepen" their ties as Paris seeks to repair relations with the former colony and major gas exporter.
The Algerian Prime Minister personally welcomed the French Premier’s delegation before a top-level meeting mainly addressing economic cooperation.
French and Algerian ministers present signed around a dozen texts including "declarations of intent" on employment, industrial cooperation and tourism.
*) Heavy rains continue to flood Thailand
Heavy seasonal rains have once again pounded much of Thailand, causing widespread flooding, particularly in the northeast and central regions.
Rains hit a northeastern province, where almost 20,000 people have been moved into 85 temporary shelters as floodwaters overwhelm more than 1,000 villages.
More than 200,000 households across 54 provinces have been affected by floods over 10 days until Saturday.
And finally…
*) Türkiye wins its first ever Amputee Football World Cup
Türkiye has won the 2022 Amputee Football World Cup, beating reigning champions Angola 4-1 in the final in Istanbul.
The hosts put in a dominant second-half display to lift their maiden World Cup title, after the first period ended 1-1.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was in attendance to watch the country's team play in the final game and handed the trophy to the winners himself.
) Biden: Nuclear 'Armageddon' risk highest since '62 crisis US President Joe Biden has said the risk of nuclear “Armageddon” is at the highest level since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, warning that Russia may use its atomic arsenal. He said the threat is real because Vladimir Putin's military is underperforming in Ukraine, warning that even a tactical strike in a limited area could quickly spiral out of control. Meanwhile, the White House has said repeatedly that it has seen no indication that Russia is preparing to use nuclear weapons. ) Gunman murders at least 37 in Thai nursery attack
Thailand is mourning the death of nearly two dozen children and others killed in a nursery, in one of its worst mass shootings. A former police officer armed with a gun and a knife killed at least 37 people, including 23 children, in a northeastern province on Thursday. Following the attack in the daycare centre, the gunman went home and killed his wife and child before taking his own life. He was sacked from the police force in June for drug use.
) Türkiye expects EU to call on Greece for bilateral dialogue, says president Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said Türkiye expects the European Union to call on Greece for dialogue on a bilateral basis instead of supporting illegal initiatives. Erdogan was speaking in Czech Republic's Prague, where he took part in the first meeting of the European Political Community on Thursday. Erdogan said he held "productive" talks at the summit, in which Türkiye shared its views, contributions and assessments on the challenges Europe is facing. ) South Korea, US stage drills with aircraft carrier after N Korean missile launches South Korea and the United States have begun maritime exercises with a US aircraft carrier. The drills will take place in waters off South Korea's east coast on October 7-8. The joint drills come after North Korea launched a pair of ballistic missiles into the sea on Thursday, and later flew warplanes near the border with the South. Defence officials from Japan, South Korea and the US discussed the latest developments in a call on Friday, condemning the North Korean launches amid heightened tensions.
And finally… *) French author Annie Ernaux wins Nobel Literature Prize
French author Annie Ernaux, known for her simple novels drawing on personal experience, has been awarded the Nobel Literature Prize.
She was honoured "for the courage…with which she uncovers the roots, estrangements and collective restraints of personal memory", the jury said on Thursday.
The 82-year-old said in Paris the award created a responsibility to "continue the fight against injustice".
*) Putin says situation to 'stabilise', Ukraine presses counterattack
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he expects the situation to "stabilise" in Ukrainian regions annexed by the Kremlin, after Moscow suffered military setbacks.
He has also ordered his government to seize control over Europe's largest nuclear power plant in the Russia-controlled region of Zaporizhzhia.
Kiev has claimed victories over Russian troops in the eastern region of Luhansk, while the Kremlin has vowed to recapture territory lost in a lightning Ukrainian counteroffensive.
*) North Korea fires two ballistic missiles, blames US drills 'escalation'
North Korea has again fired two ballistic missiles, claiming its recent blitz of tests were necessary countermeasures against joint drills by the United States and South Korea.
North Korea has accused the US of "escalating military tensions on the Korean peninsula" and threatening regional stability.
South Korea, Japan and the US have ramped up joint military drills in recent weeks, including large-scale naval manoeuvres and anti-submarine exercises.
*) WHO probes India syrups after dozens of children die in Gambia
The World Health Organisation has issued an alert over four cough and cold syrups made by Maiden Pharmaceuticals in India.
The UN health agency has said the four syrups in question "have been potentially linked with acute kidney injuries and 66 deaths among children" in The Gambia.
It has also cautioned that contaminated medications may have been distributed outside of the West African country, warning that global exposure was "possible".
*) Three 'click chemistry' pioneers win Nobel Prize
The Nobel Chemistry Prize has been awarded to a trio of chemists from the US and Denmark who laid the foundation for a more functional form of chemistry.
Americans Carolyn Bertozzi and Barry Sharpless, together with Denmark's Morten Meldal, have been honoured "for the development of click chemistry...," the jury has said.
Click chemistry "is an elegant and efficient chemical reaction that is now in widespread use," the jury said. Among many other uses, it is utilised in the development of pharmaceuticals.
*) Grandmaster Hans Niemann defends reputation after cheating claims
American international grandmaster Hans Niemann has said he "won't back down," after chess platform chess.com reported he has "probably cheated more than 100 times" in online games.
After a victory in the US Chess Championship on Wednesday, Niemann said the game he had just won "spoke for itself and showed the chess player that I am".
Norwegian world champion Magnus Carlsen last week accused 19-year-old Niemann of cheating in a major controversy.
*) US boosts arms aid as Ukraine expands battle gains
The United States has announced more weapons for Ukraine's army, which claims sweeping gains along two major battlefronts this week.
The US will ship four more Himars precision rocket launchers, 32 artillery pieces, 75,000 artillery rounds and 200,000 rounds of small arms ammunition to Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his forces have retaken "dozens" of villages in the east and south. The Russian military, too, concedes that it has incurred losses.
*) Musk offers to close Twitter buyout deal at original price
Elon Musk has offered to push through with his buyout of Twitter at the original agreed price, as a trial over his efforts to withdraw from the deal looms.
The world's richest man has said in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission that he sent Twitter a letter vowing to honour the contract.
The latest twist in the long-running saga comes ahead of the high-stakes court battle launched by Twitter in an attempt to hold the Tesla chief to the deal he signed in April.
*) Lebanon sends US its remarks on Israel maritime border dispute
Lebanon has sent Washington remarks to a US proposal on resolving a long-running maritime border dispute with Israel over gas-rich waters of the countries' Mediterranean coasts.
A draft agreement floated by the US aims to settle competing claims over offshore gas fields and was delivered to Lebanese and Israeli officials at the weekend.
Washington's offer has not been made public, but it has raised prospects for a deal that could help Lebanon explore potential gas wealth that the debt-ridden country desperately needs.
*) French-US-Austrian trio win physics Nobel for quantum mechanics work
A trio of physicists have won the Nobel Prize for discoveries in the field of quantum mechanics that have paved the way for quantum computers, networks and secure encrypted communication.
Alain Aspect of France, John Clauser of the United States and Austria's Anton Zeilinger have been honoured for "groundbreaking experiments using entangled quantum states", the committee has said.
Their results "have cleared the way for new technology based upon quantum information", it has added.
And finally…
*) Pitt 'choked' one child, hit another in Jolie plane fight: Court papers
Brad Pitt allegedly hit one of his children in the face and choked another during a fight with Angelina Jolie on a private plane, according to court papers filed in the United States by his ex-wife.
In the papers widely quoted in US media, Jolie alleges Pitt also grabbed her by the head as the couple flew with the children from California to France in September 2016.
The former couple, once one of Hollywood's highest profile pairings, have been embroiled in a lengthy dispute over their marriage, custody of their six children and shared assets.
*) North Korea fires ballistic missile over Japan
North Korea has fired an intermediate-range ballistic missile over Japan, prompting Tokyo to activate the country's missile alert system and order people to take shelter.
South Korea's military said it detected the launch of the missile, which flew around 4,500 kilometres at an altitude of about 970 kilometres and a speed of around Mach 17.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the launch was "an act of violence following recent repeated launches of ballistic missiles" by the North.
*) Ukraine forces break through Russian defences in south, advance in east
Ukrainian forces have broken through Russian defences in the south of the country while expanding their offensive in the east, seizing back more territory in areas annexed by Russia.
Making their biggest breakthrough in the south, Ukrainian forces recaptured several villages in an advance along the strategic Dnipro River on Monday.
The southern breakthrough mirrors recent Ukrainian advances in the east even as Russia has tried to raise the stakes by annexing land and ordering mobilisation.
*) Iran supreme leader blames US, Israel for Mahsa Amini protests
Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has accused the United States and Israel of fomenting the wave of nationwide protests after the death of Mahsa Amini.
Public anger has flared since authorities announced on September 16 the death of Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian who had been held for allegedly wearing a hijab headscarf in an improper way.
In his first public comments on Amini's death, the 83-year-old Khamenei said some people have resorted to vandalism and stressed that the police must stand up to them.
*) Deadly Al Shabab attacks target Somalia's Hiran region
Over a dozen people have been killed after two explosions targeted local government headquarters in the capital of Somalia’s Hiran region.
The Al Shabab terror group has claimed responsibility for Monday's attack that killed government officials, civilians and security personnel.
Earlier on Monday, Somalia’s government announced that it and international partners had killed a top Al Shabab leader over the weekend.
*) Apple: Will Smith's 'Emancipation' to release this year
Apple will release Will Smith's next big project, “Emancipation,” this December, after holding it in limbo following Smith's slap of Chris Rock at the Academy Awards in March.
After the slapgate controversy, the fate of “Emancipation” — a $120-million runaway slave thriller — had been uncertain.
But Apple TV+ said on Monday that it will debut “Emancipation” on December 2 in theatres and begin streaming it on December 9.
*) Ukraine says key eastern town 'cleared' of Russian troops
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Lyman, a key town located in one of four Ukrainian regions annexed by Russia, has been "cleared" of Moscow's troops.
The recapture of Lyman marks the first Ukrainian military victory in a territory the Kremlin has claimed as its own and vowed to defend by all possible means.
Ukraine's army said it had entered Lyman, a strategic railway hub in the eastern Donetsk region, on Saturday, prompting Moscow to announce the "withdrawal" of its troops.
*) Brazil braces for runoff as Bolsonaro beats expectations
Brazil's presidential election is headed for a runoff on October 30, with incumbent Jair Bolsonaro finishing a closer-than-expected second to front-runner Lula da Silva.
Lula, the veteran leftist seeking a presidential comeback, had 48.4 percent of the vote to 43.2 percent for Bolsonaro. Over 99 percent of polling station results were in.
It was an unexpectedly strong result for Bolsonaro — and for Brazil's far-right, which also had surprise good showings in a series of key Congressional and governors' races.
*) Indonesia orders stadium disaster 'perpetrators' punished
Indonesia's government has called on the country's police to identify and punish whoever was responsible for a stampede that left 125 people dead in a football stadium.
The tragedy on Saturday night in the city of Malang also saw 323 people injured after officers fired tear gas in a packed stadium to quell a pitch invasion, triggering the stampede.
Seventeen children were among the victims of what has turned out to be one of the deadliest disasters in the history of football.
*) Yemen ceasefire ends without extension as UN envoy urges calm
A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, United Nations' special envoy Hans Grundberg has said.
He said efforts to extend the ceasefire for a further six months had not been successful. Grundberg urged calm and added that negotiations are continuing.
The ceasefire, enacted for two months in April and renewed twice, has brought a sharp drop in fighting between Iran-backed Houthi rebels and a Saudi-supported pro-government coalition.
And finally…
*) 'Excited' Kyrgios focused on Japan Open on eve of court case
Maverick tennis player Nick Kyrgios has said it is "not difficult at all" to focus on this week's Japan Open, despite his court hearing at home in Australia for alleged common assault.
The world number 20 is due to have his case heard at a court in Canberra, on the same day he is scheduled to play in Tokyo.
The temperamental Kyrgios, at his first tournament since losing in the quarter-finals of the US Open last month, said he was "super excited" to be back in action in Tokyo.
*) Putin to annex four Ukraine territories with 'major speech' as West fumes
Russia is set to formally annex four occupied regions of Ukraine at a ceremony that the Kremlin says will feature a major speech by President Vladimir Putin. In a presidential decree, Putin has already recognised the independence of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. He made a similar move in connection with Donetsk and Luhansk in February. Kiev and its Western allies have denounced the annexation, describing the Moscow-backed separatist votes that preceded it as a sham and an attempt at unlawful land grab. *) Suicide attack at tutoring centre in Afghan capital kills 19 A suicide attack at a learning centre in the Afghan capital has killed at least 19 people. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blast. The incident happened in a neighbourhood of western Kabul that is a predominantly Shia Muslim area home to the minority Hazara community.
Students were preparing for an exam when a suicide bomber struck at the educational centre, police said, adding that over 20 people have suffered injuries. ) Hurricane Ian veers toward Carolinas after pummeling Florida A resurgent Hurricane Ian has barrelled north toward a second landfall in South Carolina, a day after carving a path of destruction across central Florida. Ian, which had weakened to a tropical storm, regained Category 1 hurricane strength while churning toward South Carolina above the Atlantic Ocean. Ian first came ashore in Florida on Wednesday as one of the most powerful storms ever to hit the US mainland. President Joe Biden has said that preliminary reports suggested a "substantial" loss of life. ) Iran ups pressure on celebrities, media over Mahsa Amini protests Iran has stepped up pressure on celebrities and journalists over the recent wave of protests, which has been backed by filmmakers, athletes, musicians and actors. Iran’s warnings came after almost two weeks of demonstrations across Iran and a deadly crackdown that rights groups say has been marked by violence by security forces. Public anger has flared since authorities announced the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who had been held for allegedly wearing a hijab headscarf in an improper way.
And finally… *) FIFA World Cup: Fans won't need Covid jabs but negative tests required
Coronavirus vaccinations will not be mandatory for the million-plus fans going to Qatar for the football World Cup that starts on November 20.
But all visitors aged over six will have to produce negative Covid-19 tests before taking flights to Qatar. Players and match officials may be forced into a secure "bio-bubble" if Covid-19 cases take off again.
The tournament will be the first major global sporting event with fans since the eruption of the Covid pandemic in December 2019.
*) Kremlin proxies in Ukraine plead to Putin for annexation
Kremlin-backed officials in Ukraine have appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin to annex regions under their control, after the territories held votes that Kiev and its allies denounce as a "sham".
Ukraine has called on the EU to hit Russia with more sanctions and NATO to send more weapons to the frontline, with the Moscow-backed separatist votes significantly raising the stakes.
Russia is looking to annex Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in Ukraine's south, and Donetsk and Luhansk in the east. The areas represent around 15% of Ukraine’s territory.
*) US does not act fairly when it comes to NATO allies: Turkish president
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticised the US for its tilted stance amid tensions between Türkiye and Greece, calling out Washington for its unequal treatment of NATO allies.
In a TV interview, he also said that according to drone footage, there are armoured vehicles stationed on Greek islands that are supposed to be demilitarised — a move he described as "unacceptable."
Ankara has warned the US and Greece over the military deployments and sent a letter to the UN, Erdogan said, reminding the US that it “cannot find another ally like Türkiye”.
*) Iran launches deadly attacks on Kurdish region of northern Iraq
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has launched deadly attacks on the Kurdish region of northern Iraq targeting armed rebel groups, Iranian state media have reported.
Iran’s attacks targeted Koysancak (Koy-san-jak), also known as Koya — east of Iraq’s Erbil — killing at least nine people and wounding 32 others, according to Kurdish regional authorities.
The strikes come at a time when Iran is rocked by protests over the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman who was detained by the Iranian morality police.
*) Hurricane Ian pounds Florida as a monster storm
Hurricane Ian has plunged much of coastal southwest Florida into darkness, with the monster storm bringing massive storm surges, wind and flooding.
Authorities said the eye of the "extremely dangerous" hurricane made landfall just after 1900 GMT. Footage showed floodwaters surging into beachfront homes, submerging roads and sweeping away vehicles.
More than two million people are without electricity in Florida. The US Border Patrol said 20 migrants were missing after their boat sank.
*) Coolio, rapper behind hit 'Gangsta's Paradise,' dies at 59
Coolio, the US rapper best known for the chart-topping 1995 song "Gangsta's Paradise," has died, his manager has said. He was 59 years old.
The Grammy-winning musician died in Los Angeles. No cause of death was immediately provided. He was found unresponsive in the bathroom of a friend's house on Wednesday.
Born on August 1, 1963 in Pennsylvania, the artist spent most of his life in Compton, California, attending community college and working jobs including airport security before finding success in rap.
*) Russia paves way to annex parts of Ukraine after 'sham' referendums
Kremlin-supported authorities in four Ukrainian regions under Russian control have claimed victory in annexation votes, drawing global outrage. Ukraine and its allies have denounced the so-called referendums as a "sham". Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said the votes mean Kiev will not negotiate with Moscow. Moscow hopes to annex Luhansk and Donetsk in the east and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south, regions that make up about 15 percent of Ukraine. ) Leaders blame Russia-Europe pipeline leaks on sabotage Sabotage is the likely cause of leaks in two Baltic Sea gas pipelines between Russia and Europe, European leaders have said, while the Kremlin too has maintained that "no option can be ruled out". Seismologists have reported explosions around the Nord Stream pipelines. Two "massive releases of energy" were recorded by the Swedish National Seismic Network shortly before the gas leaks. The Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines have been at the centre of geopolitical tensions as Russia cut gas supplies to Europe in suspected retaliation against Western sanctions over the Ukraine conflict. ) Erdogan hits out at Western countries protecting terrorists Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticised European countries that protect terrorist organisations, including the PKK and FETO. The murderers who shed blood are embraced in almost every country in Europe, particularly in the Lavrion camp in Greece, Erdogan told a meeting in Ankara on Tuesday. Erdogan said he expects all countries, especially Türkiye’s neighbours, to take necessary measures against terror groups. ) Hurricane Ian leaves Cuba without power, takes aim at Florida Powerful Hurricane Ian has left a trail of destruction and caused widespread blackout in Cuba, while Florida residents are bracing for a direct hit from the storm. Ian hit Cuba's western regions for more than five hours, before moving out over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The storm damaged Cuba's power network and plunged the island into darkness, leaving it "without electrical service," state electricity company Union Electrica said on Twitter. And finally… ) Alzheimer's drug succeeds in 'slowing' cognitive decline
An experimental Alzheimer's drug has significantly slowed the cognitive and functional decline in a large trial of patients in the early stages of the disease.
The injected drug slowed the progress of the brain-wasting disease by 27 percent compared to a placebo, meeting the study's main goal after a trial among 1,800 patients.
It offers an apparent win for the drug manufacturers and potentially for patients and their families desperate for an effective treatment.
*) Kremlin admits call-up 'errors' but no decision to close border
The Kremlin has admitted errors during the mobilisation of reservists for the military action in Ukraine and said no decision has been taken to close Russia's borders.
It has also admitted that there have been cases when the mobilisation decree was violated, but added that the instances of non-compliance were decreasing.
President Vladimir Putin last week announced the call-up of thousands of reservists for the conflict in Ukraine, sparking protests and a rush among Russian men for the borders.
*) Greek military buildup: Türkiye won't fail to defend itself, Erdogan vows
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has slammed Greece over its latest provocations, saying his country will not fail to defend its rights and interests.
Erdogan's remarks came after Turkish army drones recorded Greek deployment of armoured vehicles on two Aegean islands — which is in violation of international law.
Türkiye has summoned the Greek ambassador and called for an end to violations on the Aegean islands and restoring their non-military status, according to the Foreign Ministry.
*) Russia school shooting kills 15, including children
At least 15 people, including 11 children, have been killed after a man opened fire at his former school in central Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the "inhuman terrorist attack" in the city of Izhevsk (E-zeevsk), the Kremlin said.
According to investigators, the attacker — who killed himself — "was wearing a black top with Nazi symbols and a balaclava" when his body was discovered.
*) Japan holds controversial state funeral for assassinated Shinzo Abe
Japan has held a controversial state funeral for assassinated former prime minister Shinzo Abe, with thousands of mourners, including dignitaries, attending the ceremony in Tokyo.
Gatherers offered flowers and prayers in honour of Abe, even as the decision to hold a state funeral has sparked protests due to his policies panned by critics and the costs of the ceremony.
Abe was Japan's longest-serving prime minister known for cultivating international alliances and his "Abenomics" economic strategy.
And finally…
*) NASA strikes asteroid in key test of planetary defence
A NASA spaceship has struck an asteroid seven million miles away in order to deflect its orbit, succeeding in a historic test of preventing a celestial object from devastating life on Earth.
The director of NASA's planetary science division hailed a new era after its Double Asteroid Redirection Test impactor hit its target, a 530-foot space rock, at 2314 GMT on Monday.
To be sure, the asteroid posed no threat to Earth, but NASA has deemed the experiment important to carry out before an actual need is discovered.
*) Giorgia Meloni's far-right triumphs in Italy vote
Giorgia Meloni looks set to become Italy's first woman prime minister at the head of its most right-wing government since World War Two.
Near-final results show the rightist bloc should have a solid majority in both houses of parliament. Meloni has said she is ready to govern for "all Italians".
Her success in the general elections represents a seismic change in Italy — a founding member of the European Union — and for the EU, just weeks after the far-right outperformed in elections in Sweden.
*) US warns Russia of 'catastrophic' consequences of nuclear strike
The United States has warned Russia privately of "catastrophic" consequences if it uses nuclear weapons as part of the Ukraine conflict, according to top US officials.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in an interview, has confirmed reports that the US has sent private warnings to Russia to steer clear of nuclear war.
Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden's national security advisor, has said in a separate interview that the US has warned Russia at "very high levels" against using nuclear arms.
*) Iranians protest for 10th night, defying judiciary warning
Iranians defied a warning from the judiciary and took to the streets for a 10th consecutive night on Sunday to protest the death of a young woman in the custody of morality police.
Public anger has flared since authorities announced the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who had been held for allegedly wearing a hijab headscarf in an improper way.
At least 41 people have died since the unrest began, mostly protesters but including members of Iran's security forces, according to an official toll. Other sources say the real figure is higher.
*) Five rescuers killed in Philippine typhoon
Five rescuers have been killed in the Philippines after being sent to a flooded community during a powerful typhoon, authorities have said. The strongest storm to hit the Philippines this year has swept across the main island of Luzon, toppling trees and flooding low-lying communities.
The Philippines is regularly ravaged by storms, with scientists warning they are becoming more powerful as the world gets warmer because of the climate crisis.
*) Rihanna to headline Super Bowl halftime show
Superstar Rihanna will headline the Super Bowl halftime show in February, the main event sponsor Apple Music has announced.
The move marks a long-awaited return to performing for the Barbadian-born 34-year-old singer, who had previously turned down the gig in protest.
For the past few years, the singer behind the hits "Diamonds" and "Umbrella" has put music aside, at least publicly, to focus on her various businesses.
*) Five-day annexation polls open in Ukraine's Russian-held territories
Russia-held regions of Ukraine have begun voting on whether to become part of Russia, in referendums that Kiev and the West slam as an unlawful land grab.
The five-day votes in four regions controlled entirely or in part by Russian troops will end on September 27. The ballot covers around 15 percent of Ukraine's territory.
The regions where the voting is being held are the eastern Luhansk and Donetsk regions — which are self-proclaimed republics controlled by Moscow-backed separatists — and Kherson and Zaporizhia (zah-POH-reeja) provinces in the south.
*) Lapid calls for 'two-state solution' to end Israel-Palestine conflict
Israel's Prime Minister Yair Lapid has called for a two-state solution to end the decades-long Palestine issue.
An agreement with Palestinians, based on two states for two peoples, is the right thing for the future of our children, Lapid said at the UN General Assembly.
While Lapid was short on details, lawmakers in Israel's parliament are divided on whether they want to pursue a two-state solution with Palestine.
*) Death toll from Iran protests climbs as internet restricted
The US has placed Iran's morality police on its sanctions blacklist following the death in custody of a 22-year-old arrested for allegedly wearing her hijab headscarf improperly.
The move came as violent protests erupted across Iran following Mahsa Amini’s death last week. According to an official count, at least 17 people have died in the unrest.
With no sign of the protests easing, Iran has blocked access to Instagram and WhatsApp and imposed drastic restrictions on internet access.
*) US aircraft carrier arrives in South Korea as warning to North
A US aircraft carrier has arrived in South Korea for the first time in about four years. It is set to join other military vessels in a show of force intended to send a message to North Korea.
The USS Ronald Reagan and ships from its accompanying strike group docked at a naval base in the southern port city of Busan ahead of joint drills with South Korean forces.
Its arrival marks the most significant deployment yet under a new push to have more US "strategic assets" operate in the area to deter North Korea.
*) Djokovic has no regrets about missing Slams due to unvaccinated status
Tennis star Novak Djokovic, who missed two of this year's four Grand Slams due to not being vaccinated against the coronavirus, has said he has no regrets about his decision.
The 35-year-old Serb, who has won 21 Grand Slam titles, has not played since winning Wimbledon in July as he missed out on the US Open.
Djokovic is now awaiting word on whether he will be allowed in the Australian Open in January. He was deported from the country and received a three-year travel ban earlier this year due to his vaccination status.
*) Pressure on Putin as reservists called up for Ukraine campaign
President Vladimir Putin's decision to send reservists to Ukraine has triggered protests and arrests at home, while Western leaders have lashed out at the Russian leader at the United Nations.
Addressing the General Assembly, US President Joe Biden has accused Putin of "shamelessly" violating the UN Charter with an offensive aimed at "extinguishing Ukraine's right to exist as a state."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has demanded that the world punish Russia in a dramatic video address to the session.
*) Erdogan: Russia, Ukraine swap 200 POWs under Türkiye's mediation
Ukraine and Russia have exchanged more than 200 prisoners as a result of Türkiye's mediation and diplomatic efforts, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced.
Erdogan has told reporters in New York City that the prisoner exchange was an "important step" towards ending the conflict between the two countries.
A Ukrainian official said 215 soldiers had come home, including fighters who led a months-long defence of Azovstal steelworks in Ukraine's port city of Mariupol.
*) Biden vows solidarity with Iran women as protests spread
President Ebrahim Raisi has accused the West of hypocrisy in its criticism of Iran, where eight people were reported dead in growing protests over the death of a young woman arrested by morality police.
Public anger has flared since authorities announced the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who had been held for allegedly wearing a hijab headscarf in an improper way.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has vowed solidarity with Iranian women, and France's Emmanuel Macron has said that he asked Raisi to show "respect for women's rights."
*) Trump, children sued for 'incredible' fraud in New York
Donald Trump and family members have been accused of lying to tax collectors, lenders and insurers for years in a scheme that routinely misstated the value of his properties.
The former president provided fraudulent statements of his net worth and false asset valuations, according to a suit filed by New York's attorney general.
The sweeping investigation is one of many criminal, civil and congressional probes into Trump, who is eyeing another run for the White House in 2024.
*) Rising obesity projected to hamper developing economies: Study
Rising obesity levels are set to cost the world economy 3.3 percent of GDP by 2060, slowing development in lower-income countries, according to a study.
The peer-reviewed paper provides the first country-by-country estimate of the economic impacts of obesity, a major driver of other non-communicable diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart conditions.
Globally, nearly two in three adults are now living with overweight and obesity, according to the authors, who also say projections suggest that it will change to three in four adults by 2060.
*) Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-serving monarch, dies at 96
Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-serving monarch in British history and an icon instantly recognisable to billions of people around the world, has died. She was 96.
Buckingham Palace announced her death in a short statement, triggering 10 days of national mourning and an outpouring of tributes to her long life and reign.
Britain's King Charles III will address a nation in mourning on Friday.
*) Türkiye nabs senior Daesh member in blow to terror group
One of the most senior executives of the Daesh terrorist group has been captured by Turkish security forces, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced.
The president said that the police and Turkish intelligence carried out an important operation against Daesh and captured Bashar Hattab Ghazal al Sumaidai, code-named Abu Zeyd and Master Zeyd.
Erdogan told reporters, "After Baghdadi and Qardash, he is one of the most important leaders of Daesh".
*) Russia, US pull no punches over arms support for Ukraine at UN
Russia's UN ambassador has called for a meeting to discuss threats to peace caused by foreign governments supplying arms and military goods to Ukraine.
The ambassador said that the Russian army consistently is destroying not only the old weaponry of Soviet models, but also the modern NATO weapons". US deputy ambassador called Moscow's role "as the sole aggressor in what is an unnecessary and brutal war, for which the world is paying a collective price."
*) EU countries mull emergency solution to soaring energy bills
European Union countries' energy ministers will meet to search for solutions from a long list of possible measures to shield citizens from sky-high energy prices.
The basis for the talks is a set of proposals made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Among the proposals are a price cap on Russian gas, a windfall levy on non-gas power plants and emergency credit lines for power firms.
And finally…
*) US changes names of places with derogatory term for Native women
The US government has joined a ski resort and others that have quit using a racist term for a Native American woman by renaming hundreds of peaks, lakes, streams and other geographical features on federal lands in the West and elsewhere.
The Interior Secretary created a panel that will take suggestions from the public on changing other places named with derogatory terms.
*) Moscow denies forcibly relocating Ukrainians
Russia's UN envoy has denied accusations of Moscow relocating Ukrainians to Moscow-controlled areas or Russia at a UN Security Council meeting.
Defining the accusations as a "new milestone in a disinformation campaign," Russia's UN envoy said the US and allies were creating confusion with the terminology of “so-called filtration”.
He said: “We don't really understand what is being talked about here because the return filtration doesn't have a clear definition in international humanitarian law."
*) South Korea proposes talks with North on 'separated families'
South Korea has proposed a meeting with North Korea to resume reunions of families separated by war.
South Korea’s Unification Minister said the two countries should confront the painful parts of reality and solve the matter before the term ‘separated families’ disappears.
It's unclear if North Korea would accept the offer as it has already rejected the new South Korean government's offer to provide massive aid in return for denuclearisation.
*) Last suspect in Canada knife rampage dies
The last suspect in a stabbing spree that killed 10 and wounded 18 in western Canada has died following his capture, marking the end of a hunt that stretched into a fourth day.
One official said Myles Sanderson died from self-inflicted injuries after police forced the stolen car he was driving off a highway.
The other suspect was found dead on Monday near the scene of Sunday’s attacks.
*) Memphis city shooter captured
US police have apprehended 19-year-old Ezekiel Kelly, who they say was responsible for multiple shootings in Memphis, including one that Kelly live streamed on Facebook.
The gunman was nabbed after hours of chase, authorities said.
"It's unknown how many shootings this man is connected to at this time, but there have been at least three shootings reported today by Memphis Police," Fox news reported.
*) Muslim characters invisibile in top TV shows
Muslim actors are virtually in the shadows on major TV shows, according to a new study that looked at 200 top-rated TV series in the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand.
The study by the University of Southern California examined shows that aired between 2018 and 2019, and found that the ratio of non-Muslim characters to Muslim ones was 90 to one.
"Muslims make up 25 percent of the world's population yet were only 1.1 percent of characters in popular television series," said the lead author of the survey.
*) China clears roads to earthquake epicentre, death toll rises to 74
The death toll from Monday’s 6.6 magnitude earthquake in China’s Sichuan province has risen to 74, with 26 people still missing as of Tuesday night.
State media reported that the government has reopened roads leading to the epicentre of the quake and that traffic has resumed.
The strongest earthquake to hit the province since 2017 also injured 259 people. It destroyed numerous buildings and caused severe damage to utility infrastructures.
*) UN begs for aid as famine looms in drought-hit Somalia
The United Nations says more than 700 children have died in Somalia this year because of hunger and malnutrition.
The organisation has begged the international community not to forget the east African country, and pled for more aid as drought puts 200 thousand people on the brink of famine.
The UN warned of a famine affecting several parts of the country in the coming months.
*) UK’s new PM Liz Truss vows to ‘ride out the storm’ and rebuild country
New British Prime Minister Liz Truss has promised that her country would see sunnier days ahead despite the current economic gloom.
In her first speech as premier after taking over from Boris Johnson, the-47-year old former foreign secretary said she would take action this week to secure the UK's future energy supply.
Truss officially became Britain's new prime minister on Tuesday, at an audience with head of state Queen Elizabeth II after the resignation of Johnson.
*) Rains damage Mohenjo Daro, Pakistan's 4,500-year-old archaeological site
A famous archaeological site dating back 4 thousand 500 years is threatened by Pakistan’s devastating floods.
The ruins of Mohenjo Daro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Sindh province, are considered among the best preserved urban settlements in South Asia.
The unprecedented floods have killed over 1,300 people and left hundreds of thousands homeless.
And finally…
*) Justin Bieber suspends tour dates to prioritise health
Pop singer Justin Bieber said he would take a break from his rescheduled Justice World Tour due to mental and physical health issues.
Earlier this year, Bieber was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome that caused him partial facial paralysis.
The 28-year-old megastar had recently gone back on the road after pushing back his tour in June.
*) Liz Truss vows to deliver 'bold plan' after winning vote to become UK PM
UK Foreign Minister Liz Truss has won a Conservative Party contest to become the new prime minister of the country.
Truss on Monday vowed to press ahead with promised tax cuts and action to tackle a deepening energy and cost of living crisis.
Truss takes over as the country faces a crunch on household finances, industrial unrest, a recession and war in Europe, where Britain has been backing Ukraine.
*) Rescuers scour for survivors as powerful quake kills dozens in China
At least 65 people have been killed and hundreds injured after a magnitude 6.8 earthquake rocked China's southwestern Sichuan province.
The quake cut communication lines and triggered landslides. According to the Chinese state broadcaster, some power stations were also forced to shut down.
Some 21 million people in Sichuan's capital Chengdu were earlier ordered to stay home because of a Covid-19 outbreak.
*) Pakistan's Manchar Lake breached to drain water threatening nearby towns
Engineers have breached Pakistan's biggest freshwater lake to drain water threatening nearby towns, as heavy rain poured misery on millions.
Nearly a third of Pakistan is under water following months of record monsoon rains that have killed over 1,300 people and washed away homes, businesses, roads and bridges.
Officials say the repair bill will top $10 billion for a country already in the grip of economic turmoil, with hundreds of thousands homeless as winter approaches.
*) IED blast kills, wounds dozens of civilians in Burkina Faso
An IED blast has killed at least 35 civilians and wounded 37 others in northern Burkina Faso.
The interim military government said that the deaths occured when a vehicle in a convoy hit an improvised explosive device.
Violence has spiked in the country’s north, where militants have escalated attacks on villages, police and military outposts since 2015.
And finally…
*) Nadal out as Tiafoe crushes second seed in major US Open upset
Rafael Nadal fell to his earliest US Open loss in six years when he was knocked out by Frances Tiafoe.
Four-time US Open champion Nadal, bidding for a 23rd Grand Slam title, lost 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the last-16 to 26th-ranked Tiafoe.
The American's free-swinging performance conjured up 18 aces and 49 winners past a sluggish Nadal.
*) Ukraine retakes 'certain heights' from Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says that his forces have marked progress in a counteroffensive against Russia that began last week.
He thanked his forces for retaking two settlements in the south, a third in the eastern Donetsk region, as well as additional territory – what he called “certain heights” – in the Lysychansk-Siversk region, also in the east.
He did not say precisely where the territories were and provided no timeline except to say that he had received "good reports" at a meeting on Sunday from his military commanders.
*) Chile resoundingly rejects new progressive constitution
Chileans have resoundingly rejected a new constitution to replace a charter imposed by the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet 41 years ago.
The 61.9 percent rejection vote, compared to the 38.1 percent for approval dealt a stinging setback to President Gabriel Boric, who argued the document would have ushered in a progressive era.
Despite initially backing change, many voters say the wording of the document would have moved the nation too far to the left.
*) Flood-hit Pakistan breaches lake to avert overflow
Pakistani authorities have deliberately breached the country's largest freshwater lake in the southeastern Sindh province. The operation at Manchar Lake has displaced up to 100 thousand people, but officials say it was necessary to prevent heavily-populated towns from flooding.
Pakistan has been hit with record rainfall this monsoon season. Nearly 1,300 people have been killed, including scores of children.
*) Canada mass stabbings kill, wound many
A series of stabbings in two communities in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan has left at least 10 people dead and 15 wounded. Police are looking for two suspects.
The police said that Sunday’s stabbings took place in multiple locations on the James Smith Cree Nation and in the village of Weldon, northeast of Saskatoon.
Police have issued photos of the men considered armed and dangerous, urging residents to move with caution and to not approach the 'suspicious persons'.
And finally…
*) Ukrainian firefighters rescue kitten from burning building
Ukrainian firefighters in the city of Kharkiv have helped a small, furry survivor over the weekend.
The rescuers, wearing full firefighting gear, battled raging flames and smoke to pull a gray-and-white kitten from among the rubble of a hotel-restaurant complex, which was hit by a rocket.
Video showed the firefighters petting and cuddling the feline as they carried it to safety.
*) UN experts to stay at Ukraine nuclear plant to 'continue with assessment’
UN inspectors will be "staying" at a Russian-held nuclear plant in southern Ukraine — at least till the weekend.
The Chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency described their first visit to the facility as productive.
Today we were able, in these few hours, to gather a lot of information," IAEA director general Rafael Grossi told reporters outside the plant after the inspection.
*) Hundreds of flights cancelled in Germany as Lufthansa pilots go on strike
Pilots at Lufthansa have gone on strike, forcing the German airline to cancel hundreds of flights and leave holidaymakers stranded.
Friday's walk out has led to the cancellation of nearly 800 flights, affecting around 130,000 passengers.
The strike began at midnight local time and is set to continue for 24 hours, according to a statement by the pilots' union.
*) Iran sends 'constructive' response to US offers on nuclear deal
Iran has sent a "constructive" response to US proposals aimed at reviving Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said "The text that was sent (by Iran) has a constructive approach aimed at finalising the negotiations."
The report said Iran's response was sent to EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell, who has been coordinating the negotiations.
*) Sri Lanka's deposed president Rajapaksa 'to return home' from Thailand
Sri Lanka's deposed former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa is expected to end his self-imposed exile in Thailand and return home, a top defence official has said.
"He has been living in a Thai hotel as a virtual prisoner and was keen to return," the defence official, adding that the ex-leader is expected to return early on Saturday.
The 73-year-old fled the island under military guard in July after a huge crowd stormed his official residence, following months of public protests over an unprecedented economic crisis.
*) NASA readies for Moon rocket launch attempt
The stars appear to have aligned for NASA's Moon rocket to finally blast off, with weather forecasts favourable and technical issues resolved.
Lift off is scheduled for 1817 GMT from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with the potential for up to a two-hour delay if necessary.
The chance for favourable weather conditions within that window sat at 60 percent Thursday evening.
*) IMF in preliminary agreement with Sri Lanka for $2.9 bln loan
Crisis-hit Sri Lanka has reached a preliminary agreement with the International Monetary Fund for a loan of about $2.9 billion.
"The objectives of Sri Lanka's new Fund-supported programme are to restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability," an IMF statement said.
Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis in recent memory with acute shortages of essentials like fuel, medicines and food because of serious foreign currency shortages.
*) Food crisis looms as vegetable prices spike in flood-hit Pakistan
Vegetable and fruit prices have soared in markets across Pakistan as devastating rains ruined crops and disrupted supplies.
In the eastern city of Lahore, close to the border with India and far from the worst floods in Sindh province, prices of some vegetables have tripled.
The Pakistani government sets prices for some fresh produce, although traders often ignore the guidelines.
*) G7 to discuss Russian oil price cap as Ukraine fight grinds on
Finance ministers from the Group of Seven club of wealthy nations will discuss the United States’ proposed price cap on Russian oil.
The White House said putting a cap on Russian oil will result in not only a drop in the country’s oil revenue, but also global energy prices.
Despite Russia's oil exports hitting their lowest levels since last August, its export revenue in June increased 40 percent above last year's average.
*) Cholera outbreak kills dozens in Democratic Republic of Congo
An outbreak of cholera has reportedly killed 48 people in the central province of Sankuru in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to a report published on a privately run local news website, health officials detected 401 cases of cholera between August 15 and 21.
The highest number of cases and fatalities were reported in the Lusambo health zone, with 308 cases and 24 deaths.
And finally…
*) 'White Noise' starring Adam Driver opens 79th Venice Film Festival
The Venice Film Festival has opened with a screening of the Netflix film "White Noise".
An adaptation of a Don DeLillo novel, the film stars Adam Driver of "Girls" and "Star Wars" fame.
Netflix will also premiere the highly anticipated "Blonde", a dark retelling of Marilyn Monroe's tragic life, in the second week of the 10-day festival.
*) Russia halts gas supplies in new jitters for Europe
Russian energy giant Gazprom has cut off its gas supplies to Germany via the Nord Stream 1 pipeline for maintenance work, further raising tensions on an already taut electricity market.
The three-day works at a compressor station are "necessary", Gazprom has said, adding that they had to be carried out after "every 1,000 hours of operation".
But Germany's Federal Network Agency chief called it a "technically incomprehensible" decision, warning that it was likely just a pretext by Moscow to wield energy supplies as a threat.
*) Ex-Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev dies aged 91
Mikhail Gorbachev has died at the age of 91 after a long illness.
He was the last leader of the Soviet Union who waged a losing battle to salvage a crumbling empire but produced extraordinary reforms that led to the end of the Cold War.
UN chief Antonio Guterres said Gorbachev was "a one-of-a-kind statesman who changed the course of history. He did more than any other individual to bring about the peaceful end of the Cold War".
*) Taliban celebrates 1st anniversary of US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan
The Taliban has declared Wednesday a national holiday to celebrate the first anniversary of the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan.
The withdrawal of troops at midnight on August 31 began last year and ended America's longest war – a military invasion that began in the wake of 9/11 attacks in America.
Some 66,000 Afghan troops and 48,000 civilians were killed in the conflict.
But it was the deaths of more than 2,400 US servicemen that became too much for the American public to bear.
*) Taiwan vows to 'counter-attack' if Chinese forces enter its territory
Taiwan has said it would exercise its right to self-defence and "counter-attack" if Chinese armed forces entered its territory.
Taiwanese defence officials said that China's "high intensity" military patrols near Taiwan continued.
They warned that Beijing's intention of making the Taiwan Strait separating the two sides its "inner sea" would become the main source of instability in the region.
And finally…
*) Nadal downs wildcard Hijikata in US Open first round
Second seed Rafael Na o dal has overcome an early scare to down 21-year-old Australian wildcard Rinky Hijikata 4-6 6-2 6-3 6-3 in his first appearance at the US Open after winning in 2019.
Playing in only his second match after pulling out of Wimbledon with an abdominal injury, the Spaniard speculated whether he was ready to take on New York.
Nadal seemed to confirm those fears as he struggled on the return in the first set.
*) IAEA mission to visit Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant this week
The head of the International atomic energy agency says a team of inspectors will visit the besieged Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine later this week.
Reports of shelling around the facility have fuelled fears of a radiation disaster. Both Russia and Ukraine have traded blame for the recent shelling near the plant.
Zaporizhzhia, Europe's largest nuclear power plant, was captured by Russian troops in March, and has been a major hotspot in the six-month conflict.
*) Pakistan flood deaths cross 1,000 in 'climate catastrophe'
More than one thousand people, including 300 children, have been killed in catastrophic flooding across Pakistan.
The South Asian nation is struggling to cope with historic monsoon rains, which have swept away buildings and submerged cities.
At least 33 million people in Pakistan have been affected by the devastating floods. The government has asked the international community for help.
*) Venezuela, Colombia reestablish diplomatic relations after three years
Venezuela and Colombia have restored full diplomatic relations after a three-year break as a new leftist government in Bogota takes shape.
Colombia's new leftist President, Gustavo Petro, and Venezuela's socialist President Nicolas Maduro announced on August 11 that they planned to restore diplomatic relations that were severed in 2019.
That rupture was the culmination of years of tension between the two countries.
*) More than a dozen people dead in eastern DRC violence
Violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has left more than a dozen people dead in three days, military and local sources said.
Sunday's statement included two soldiers, who were among those killed since Friday.
Over 120 militias roam the country's volatile east, which sees frequent attacks on civilians.
*) Taylor Swift wins top MTV video award
Taylor Swift has won the top honour at MTV's annual Video Music Awards with the 10-minute version of her 2012 breakup song "All Too Well."
The singer thanked fans from the stage at the Prudential Center in New Jersey on Sunday as she accepted the honour.
She also made a surprise announcement of a new album coming in October.
*) US warns Moscow not to divert power from Ukraine nuclear plant
The United States has warned Russia against diverting energy from Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which Kiev says was cut off from its grid.
Ukraine’s state energy operator said the nuclear plant held by Moscow's troops was disconnected from the national power supply.
Kiev said the electricity produced at the plant belongs to Ukraine, and any attempt to redirect the plant to occupied areas is unacceptable.
*) Türkiye, Finland, and Sweden to meet over Nordic NATO bid
Türkiye, Finland, and Sweden are set to hold their first meeting on a permanent joint mechanism between the three countries over the Nordic countries’ NATO bids.
The permanent joint mechanism was established for the implementation of a memorandum signed by the three countries at the NATO summit in Madrid.
With the memorandum, Finland and Sweden extended full support to Türkiye against threats to its national security.
To that effect, Helsinki and Stockholm will not provide support to the terrorist organisations, namely YPG/PYD, and FETO.
*) Algeria, France agree to open new page in relations
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron agree to opening a new page in bilateral relations following a meeting in Algiers.
Tebboune said he discussed many issues with Macron on bilateral cooperation and ways to develop relations in a "constructive" way, hoping for "encouraging results."
Macron said the two countries’ complex and painful common history had prevented them from looking to the future.
*) Pakistan declares national emergency as floods leave at least 1,000 dead
Pakistan has declared a national emergency amid historic monsoon rains and flooding which has affected more than 30 million people over the last few weeks.
Sherry Rehman, the country's climate change minister, called the situation a "climate-induced humanitarian disaster of epic proportions".
The military was ordered to send troops to assist the civil administration with relief and rescue operations.
*) Satellite plan set to end cell phone 'dead zones'
SpaceX satellites are set to connect directly to T-Mobile cell phones to provide service access even in the most remote places beyond the reach of cell towers.
The new service will work on existing cell phones from next year, and will utilise SpaceX's network of thousands of Starlink satellites in Earth's orbit.
SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk said: "The important thing about this is that it means there's no dead zones anywhere in the world for your cell phone".
*) Taiwan unveils record defence budget
Taiwan has proposed a record 19 billion dollars in defence spending for next year. This comes weeks after China conducted large-scale military exercises around the island. China sees Taiwan as its sovereign territory.
The proposed defence budget is an increase of almost 14 percent compared to last year.
The double-digit increase includes an additional three and a half billion dollars in spending for new fighter jets.
*) Türkiye: Grain deal could restart Russia-Ukraine negotiations
Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said that the landmark Türkiye-brokered grain deal could work as a platform to restart negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.
Kalin said Türkiye believes that the trust built between the two sides could in fact work as a platform to restart the negotiations.
Türkiye, the UN, Russia, and Ukraine signed a deal last month to resume grain exports from the Ukrainian Black Sea ports.
*) Ethiopia's government, rebels trade blame over renewed clashes in Tigray
Ethiopia’s government and rebels in the restive Tigray region have traded blame after fighting erupted, ending a months-long truce and severely denting hopes of lasting peace.
The government accused Tigray rebels of carrying out attacks on Ethiopian forces near Kobo district and effectively breaking the cease-fire.
However, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front said Ethiopian forces have launched a “large-scale offensive” on rebel positions.
*) Drought hits half of China in the worst heatwave on record
Half of China is now experiencing drought as the country goes through its hottest summer on record.
A chart from the National Climate Centre shows swathes of southern China, including the Tibetan Plateau, experiencing "severe" to "extraordinary" drought.
Scientists say the extreme weather phenomena are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.
*) Pakistan to send troops for FIFA World Cup security in Qatar
Pakistan is set to provide its troops for the security of the FIFA World Cup scheduled to be held in November in Qatar.
The Pakistani government approved the agreement between Pakistan and Qatar to provide troops for the mega event.
The development came ahead of Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s visit to Qatar, during which the two countries reaffirmed their resolve to further enhance bilateral cooperation.
*) Ukraine braces for stepped-up Russian attacks around Independence Day
Ukraine has banned public events celebrating the country's 31st Independence Day fearing renewed Russian attacks.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned Moscow that there would be consequences if Russia escalated its attacks to coincide with the anniversary.
Meanwhile, the leader promised to restore his country's control over the Crimean Peninsula, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014
*) Somalia's Mohamud pledges 'all-out war' against Al Shabab
Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has pledged "an all-out war" to eliminate the Al Shabab terror group.
He said without elaborating that weakening the group was a priority for the government and that preparations for the implementation of the plan were ongoing.
This was his first statement to the nation since Al Shabab staged a 30-hour hotel siege in capital Mogadishu, which left at least 21 people dead.
*) US claims targeting Iran-linked groups in Syria strikes
The US military has confirmed carrying out air strikes in Syria's Deir Ezzor, apparently targeting facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps.
The strikes on Tuesday came even as the United States aimed to respond to a draft agreement proposed by the European Union that would bring back the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran.
Washington said that such strikes were aimed at protecting US forces from attack by Iran-backed groups.
*) China sees 'severe threat’ to harvest amid hottest summer on record
Chinese authorities warn that autumn harvest is under "severe threat" from high temperatures and drought.
They have urged action to protect crops in the face of the country's hottest summer on record.
The world's second-largest economy has been hit by record temperatures, flash floods and droughts this summer.
And finally…
*) Texas drought peels back river to expose giant dinosaur tracks
Drought in the US state of Texas has dried up a river flowing through Dinosaur Valley State Park, exposing tracks from giant reptiles that lived some 113 million years ago.
Photos posted on Facebook show three-toed footprints leading down a dry tree-lined riverbed in the southern state.
The accompanying caption states it is "one of the longest dinosaur trackways in the world."
*) Over 300 classified documents recovered from Trump's Florida home – NYT
The US government has recovered more than 300 classified documents from former president Donald Trump's Florida estate.
The documents include materials from the CIA, the National Security Agency and the FBI, the New York Times has reported.
On Monday, Trump's legal team requested that a federal judge appoint a third-party attorney to review evidence the FBI gathered from his Mar-a-Lago home two weeks ago.
*) US rejects Ukraine's demand to impose blanket ban on Russians
The United States has rejected Ukraine's demand for a blanket visa ban on Russians.
Washington said it would not want to close off pathways to refuge for Russia's dissidents and others who are vulnerable to human rights abuses.
A State department spokesperson said that it is important to draw a line between the actions of the Russian government and its policies in Ukraine, and the people of Russia.
*) Pakistan's flash floods kill hundreds in last two months
Flash floods caused by abnormally heavy monsoon rains have killed 777 people across Pakistan over the last two months.
Rescuers backed by troops continue to race against time to evacuate thousands of marooned people.
Since June 14, rain and flooding have affected 1.8 million people, and over three hundred thousand of them were still living in relief camps across the country.
*) Desperate to exit $44B Twitter deal, Musk subpoenas Dorsey for records
Elon Musk has served former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey with a subpoena in a hunt for material to help him get out of buying the giant social media platform for 44 billion dollars as agreed.
Records made public on Monday show Dorsey was served with a legal order to give Musk any communications or documents related to the takeover deal signed in April.
Tesla boss Musk, the world's wealthiest man, has accused Twitter of fraud, alleging the company misled him about key aspects of its business.
And finally…
*) 'House of Dragon' premiere draws nearly 10 million viewers
The premiere of “House of the Dragon” drew nearly 10 million viewers on Sunday on television and the HBO Max streaming service.
It is the largest audience for any new original series in the history of the network, HBO reported.
Anticipation for the series, set 200 years before HBO's "Game of Thrones," fanned conversation on social media, where "House of Dragon" remained a top trending topic on Twitter for 14 hours.
*) US-Afghan talks on release of frozen assets to continue
US President Joe Biden's administration will press ahead with talks on releasing billions of dollars in Afghanistan's foreign-held assets.
This is despite the late Al Qaeda leader's presence in Kabul, and Washington's frustration with the pace, according to sources with knowledge of the situation, Reuters news agency has reported.
The decision to pursue the initiative to help stabilise Afghanistan's collapsed economy underscores growing concern over a humanitarian crisis as the United Nations warns that nearly half the country's 40 million people face "acute hunger" as winter approaches.
*) Russia's Ukraine soldiers trial to undermine talks
Russia might take the provocative step of putting Ukrainian soldiers on trial as Kiev marks 31 years of independence on Wednesday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned.
Zelenskyy warned: "If this despicable court takes place, if our people are brought into these settings in violation of all agreements, all international rules, there will be abuse."
Ukraine's Independence Day on August 24 will also mark six months since Russia attacked the former Soviet republic, in a devastating war that has cost thousands of lives.
*) Police file terrorism charges against Pakistan's Imran Khan
In Pakistan, police have filed terrorism charges against former prime minister Imran Khan, escalating political tensions in the country.
Pakistan's media watchdog has banned the live telecast of Khan's speeches, after he was accused of threatening top police officials and a female judge during a rally in Islamabad.
Following that rally, Islamabad police registered a criminal complaint against Khan under the country's anti-terrorism act.
*) US, S Korea begin biggest military drills since 2018 amid N Korea backlash
The United States and South Korea have begun their biggest combined military drills since 2018 – a move likely to enrage North Korea, which has been ramping up its nuclear threats.
The two countries have long carried out joint exercises, which they insist are purely defensive but North Korea sees them as a rehearsal for invasion.
The annual joint military drills mark the resumption of large-scale training sessions after they were scaled back due to Covid-19 and a bout of failed diplomacy with Pyongyang.
*) Computer-animated movie 'Dragon Ball' slays at box office in North America
Computer-animated martial arts film "Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero," the 21st in the Japanese franchise, has seized control of the North American box office.
With an impressive $20.1 million in ticket sales, it was hailed as the best global opening ever for an anime movie by distributor Crunchyroll.
The film outshined the $11.6 million take of another new release, Universal's "Beast".
*) Erdogan stresses Ukraine diplomacy, warns against nuclear plant fighting
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has discussed possible ways of ending the Ukraine conflict in a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy and United Nations chief Antonio Guterres.
Erdogan said the fighting between Russia and Ukraine will eventually end at the negotiating table, adding that Zelenskyy and Guterres had a similar view.
Erdogan added that Türkiye, which has taken the lead in mediating between Kiev and Moscow, will discuss the outcome of the talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
*) UK spy head says Russia is losing 'information war' in Ukraine
Jeremy Fleming, head of Britain's intelligence service, wrote in an op-ed in The Economist that Russia has failed to gain ground in cyberspace against Ukraine.
Fleming said Russia had deployed WhisperGate malware to destroy and deface Ukrainian government systems, adding that online disinformation is a major part of Russia's strategy.
Fleming wrote that "Putin comprehensively lost the information war in Ukraine and in the West,” but warned that Russian disinformation could be effective in the rest of the world.
*) North Korea says won't give up nukes for South's aid plan
The sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un, has said the country will never deal with a South Korean proposal to boost the North's economy in exchange for giving up nuclear weapons.
State media reported her as saying "the plan to barter 'economic cooperation' for the North’s honour, nukes, is the great dream, hope and plan of South Korea.”
"No one barters its destiny for corn cake."
*) UN, EU condemn Israel's closure on Palestinian NGOs
Israel's closure of Palestinian nonprofit organisations has caused diplomatic backlash, drawing criticism from the UN, EU, and the US.
The UN said "Israeli authorities have not given any compelling evidence to UN agencies nor NGO partners working in occupied Palestinian territories to support these designations."
The Office of the European Union Representative to Palestine said the allegations were "unproven", and the US State Department spokesman said Washington is "concerned" about the closures.
And finally…
*) Qatar sends 1,300 buses onto streets in World Cup transport test
Qatar's World Cup organisers have sent 1,300 buses onto the streets of capital Doha in a test mimmicking the schedule for the busiest days of the tournament when about 300,000 fans occupy the city.
Amid sweltering summer heat, hundreds of air-conditioned but mainly empty buses went out to stadiums, metro stations and pickup points.
Chief operating officer of Qatar's bus and taxi services said the move was "the most complex transport operation ever mounted for a major sporting event."
*) Erdogan heads to Ukraine for trilateral summit with Zelenskyy, Guterres
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has embarked on a visit to the Ukrainian city of Lviv where he will meet his Ukrainian counterpart and the UN chief.
Erdogan will hold a bilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Potocki Palace and discuss aspects of Türkiye-Ukraine relations at the strategic partnership level.
The bilateral talks will be followed by a trilateral summit with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to discuss steps for an end to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
*) US says it doesn't support Taiwan's independence
The US remains committed to the "One China" policy and is not supporting Taiwan's formal independence, Washington's top diplomat said.
China has been carrying out military drills around Taiwan this month to show its anger at a visit to Taipei by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Kritenbrink said China used the trip as an excuse to increase pressure on Taiwan.
*) NATO calls for ‘urgent’ inspection of Ukraine nuclear plant
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg warned that the UN's atomic watchdog must be allowed to inspect the Russian-held nuclear power plant in Ukraine as soon as possible.
Russia's seizure of the plant "poses a serious threat to the safety and the security of this facility (and) raises the risks of a nuclear accident or incident," he said.
"It is urgent to allow the inspection by the International Atomic Energy Agency and to ensure the withdrawal of all Russian forces," he added.
*) Bus crash in Morocco's Casablanca
A bus crash east of Morocco's economic capital Casablanca has left 23 people dead and another 36 injured, marking one of the deadliest accidents in recent years.
The bus overturned on a bend of a motorway in central-western province, local authorities said. An investigation has been opened into the accident.
The bus was travelling between Casablanca and the rural region of Ait Attab, near the town of Beni Mellal at the foot of the High Atlas mountains.
And finally…
*) Elon Musk: Tweet about buying Manchester United was a 'joke'
Elon Musk has tweeted that he is "not buying any sports teams", clarifying that a viral post about him purchasing Manchester United was a joke.
Embroiled in a lawsuit over his bid to buy Twitter, Musk was subsequently asked on the platform if he was serious about owning Manchester United.
Despite calling it a joke, the tweet could land him in trouble with US regulators.
*) Biden inks landmark climate crisis, health care bill into law
US President Joe Biden has signed into law the most significant climate legislation in US history.
The Inflation Reduction Act is a 750 billion dollar package aiming to reduce carbon emissions and extend health insurance subsidies. It also imposes new taxes on large corporations.
Not a single Republican in the Senate or the House backed the bill targeting four billion tons of emissions.
*) Donetsk separatist chief seeks North Korea's cooperation
Donetsk separaist head Denis Pishilin has written a letter to North Korea’s Kim Jong-un.
It states that the east Asian country and the Russian-backed separatist region of Ukraine will develop "equally beneficial bilateral cooperation," according to North Korean state media.
In July, North Korea recognised the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics in eastern Ukraine's Donbass region, as independent states.
*) Zimbabwe measles outbreak kills scores of children
A measles outbreak in Zimbabwe has killed at least 157 children, with more than 2,000 infections reported across the country.
Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the government was going to step up vaccinations.
The government has also invoked special legislation allowing it to draw money from the National Disaster Fund to deal with the emergency.
*) UN ship with grain for Africa leaves Ukraine: ministry
A UN-chartered vessel carrying 23 thousand tonnes of wheat departed from Ukraine for Africa on Tuesday following a deal to relieve a global food crisis.
The MV Brave Commander left the Black Sea port of Pivdennyi and will sail to Djibouti "for delivery to Ethiopia", the infrastructure ministry said on Telegram.
It is the first ship chartered by the UN World Food Programme to leave Ukraine since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in February.
*) US police rush to zoo after monkey dials 911
A 911 call has forced Californian police to rush to a zoo only to find it had been placed by a mischievous monkey.
Dispatchers sent officers to investigate a possible emergency after receiving a call on Saturday night that had disconnected. Finding no humans in trouble, the officers began to investigate the source of the call.
They soon realised that it was likely Route the Capuchin monkey, who had picked up the zoo’s cell phone in the golf cart used to travel around the grounds.
*) Violent protests erupt in Kenya after deputy president Ruto wins election
Violent protests have erupted in Kenya after deputy president William Ruto was declared the winner of the presidential election.
The result has caused uproar among the rival candidate Raila Odinga’s supporters, who allege mismanagement and irregularities in the process.
Four of seven members of the electoral commission have refused to endorse the result, describing it as "opaque".
*) China sanctions seven Taiwanese 'independence diehard' officials
Beijing has sanctioned seven Taiwanese officials over their support for the island's independence.
A Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson said that those sanctioned would not be able to visit China, Hong Kong and Macau. Firms and investors related to them will also not be allowed to profit in China.
China has also conducted more military exercises in response to a US Congressional visit to Taipei earlier this month.
*) 'Catastrophe' at Zaporizhzhia threatens whole of Europe
In Ukraine, recently taken satellite images show scorch marks in fields surrounding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
It follows reports of renewed shelling near the facility.
Moscow and Kiev have been blaming each other for the attacks, with Ukraine warning of a possible Chernobyl-like disaster.
A "catastrophe" at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in southern Ukraine would threaten the whole of Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned.
*) UN envoy makes first visit to Myanmar
A senior UN official is travelling to Myanmar on a rare visit that comes amid domestic political turmoil and fraying ties between the country and its Southeast Asian neighbours.
The UN special envoy for Myanmar Noeleen Heyzer arrived in the country for the first time since she was appointed to the post last October.
The trip followed the UN Security Council’s latest call for an immediate end to all forms of violence and unimpeded humanitarian access in the strife-torn country.
And finally…
*) Space mission shows Earth's water may be from asteroids: study
Water may have been brought to Earth by asteroids from the outer edges of the solar system.
This is according to scientists analysing rare samples collected from the asteroid Ryugu in 2020 by a six-year Japanese space mission called Hayabusa-2.
In a new paper published in the journal Nature Astronomy, scientists said the samples could give clues to the mystery of how oceans appeared on Earth billions of years ago.
*) Afghan Taliban mark first year in power
The Taliban have marked the first anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan with a national holiday.
Exactly a year ago, the group captured Kabul after their nationwide lightning offensive against government forces ended 20 years of US-led military intervention.
A chaotic withdrawal of foreign forces continued until August 31, with tens of thousands of people rushing to Kabul's airport hoping to be evacuated on any flight out of Afghanistan.
*) Russia, North Korea to 'expand' relations: Putin to Kim Jong-un
Russian President Vladimir Putin has told North Korean leader Kim Jong-un that the two countries will "expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations with common efforts".
In a letter to Kim for North Korea's liberation day, Putin said that closer ties would be in both countries' interests and would help strengthen the security of the Korean peninsula, according to Pyongyang's state media.
Kim also sent a letter to Putin saying Russian-North Korean friendship had been forged in World War II with victory over Japan, which had occupied the Korean peninsula.
*) Zelenskyy defends fighting as all eyes are on Zaporizhzhia plant
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has defended fighting against Russian and Moscow-backed forces, including those positioned at Europe’s largest nuclear power station in Zaporizhzhia.
His statement comes as Ukrainian forces reported heavy Russian shelling and attempts to advance on several towns in the eastern region of Donetsk.
The General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces also reported Russian shelling of more than a dozen towns on the southern front – particularly in Kherson, mainly controlled by Russian forces.
*) Five dead and 15 wounded after gunfire erupts in Ecuador’s port city
Gunfire and a subsequent explosion have left at least five people dead, 15 wounded with several others missing in the Ecuadoran port city of Guayaquil.
Government officials blamed the attack on organised crime.
Eight houses and two cars were destroyed in the blast in Guayaquil, the country's second-largest city, according to the Secretariat for Risk Management.
And finally…
*) ‘Bullet Train’ tops for second week as ticket sales slow down to a trickle
The Brad Pitt action film “Bullet Train” has led all movies in ticket sales for a second straight weekend, according to studio estimates.
Meanwhile, a quiet spell in theaters and incredible staying power has allowed “Top Gun: Maverick” to rocket back into third place in its 12th week of release.
After launching the previous weekend with about $30 million at the box office, “Bullet Train” pulled in $13.4 million in its second go-around.
*) US attorney general says 'personally approved' Trump home search
US Attorney General Merrick Garland has said he "personally approved" the dramatic raid on former American President Donald Trump's Florida estate.
In a highly unusual move, he also requested the warrant justifying the search be made public — though he did not reveal the reason for the search.
The Washington Post has reported that federal agents were looking for documents relating to nuclear weapons. It was not clear if such documents were recovered.
*) IAEA chief warns of 'grave hour' at Ukraine nuclear plant
The head of the UN nuclear watchdog has told the Security Council that the agency must be allowed to inspect Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia (zah-POH-reeja) nuclear plant.
Rafael Grossi told an emergency meeting via video feed that fighting between Russian and Ukrainian soldiers near the site sparked a "grave" crisis.
The clashes at and around Zaporizhzhia have led to urgent international calls for an end to fighting around the plant, the largest of its kind in Europe.
*) Hostage drama at Beirut bank ends after armed man turns himself in
A hostage standoff in which a gunman demanded a Beirut bank let him withdraw his trapped savings so that he could pay his father's medical bills ended seven hours later.
After hours of negotiations on Thursday, 42-year-old food-delivery driver Bassam al Sheikh Hussein accepted an offer from the bank to receive part of his savings.
He did not actually receive any of the money, according to his lawyer. His wife told reporters after his arrest that her husband “did what he had to do".
*) Sri Lankan ex-president Rajapaksa arrives in Bangkok after fleeing protests
Former Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa has arrived in Bangkok after his visa ran out following a month-long stint in Singapore.
The Thai foreign ministry said it received a request from Colombo for the 73-year-old deposed leader to visit and an assurance that he would not seek political asylum.
Earlier, Rajapaksa flew into Singapore from the Maldives on July 14 after fleeing a deepening economic crisis and widespread protests in Sri Lanka.
And finally…
*) Switzerland's mountain pass set to lose all ice within weeks
The thick layer of ice that has covered a Swiss mountain pass for centuries will melt away completely within a few weeks, a ski resort has warned.
While the ice measured around 50-feet thick in 2012, the ground underneath "will have completely resurfaced by the end of September", the Glacier 3000 ski resort said in a statement.
Following a dry winter, the summer heat waves hitting Europe have been catastrophic for the Alpine glaciers, which have been melting at an accelerated rate.
*) Trump invokes Fifth Amendment to evade questions over alleged fraud
Former US president Donald Trump has invoked his Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination as he testified under oath in a NY civil investigation into his business dealings.
The Fifth Amendment protects people from being compelled to become witnesses against themselves in a criminal case.
Attorney General Letitia James said her office uncovered evidence that Trump's company misled lenders and tax authorities about the value of prized assets like golf courses and skyscrapers.
Trump Organization even exaggerated the size of Trump's Manhattan penthouse, saying it was nearly three times its actual size — a difference in the value of about $200 million, James' office says.
*) Sierra Leone imposes nationwide curfew after violent protests
At least two police officers and a civilian have been killed after a protest descended into clashes between security forces and demonstrators who were demanding the president's resignation.
"Two police officers, a male and female, were mobbed to death by protesters at the east end of Freetown," police spokesperson Brima Kamara said on Wednesday.
In addition, Reuters reported that a civilian was also killed in the violence. A hospital worker in Freetown said that dozens more had been wounded.
*) Ukraine shelling causes ammonia leak in Donetsk – separatists
Pro-Russian separatists have accused Ukraine of shelling in the occupied eastern city of Donetsk, killing one person and triggering a leak of ammonia, Interfax news agency reported.
The emergency ministry in the Russian-backed so-called Donetsk People's Republic said a shell had hit an ammonia line late at night. It sparked a fire that at one point covered 603 square metres.
Pictures from the scene showed flames lighting the sky above one part of the city as well as firefighters donning masks. One picture appeared to show a corpse on the ground.
*) Iraq's Sadr gives one-week deadline to judiciary to dissolve parliament
Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada al Sadr has called on the country's judiciary to dissolve parliament by the end of next week.
The judiciary "must dissolve parliament by the end of next week... if not, the revolutionaries will take another stance," Sadr said in a statement on his Twitter account.
The Iraqi Shia leader has helped inflame tensions in Iraq over the last two weeks by commanding thousands of followers to storm and occupy parliament.
And finally…
*) African football body launches new Super League to boost local clubs
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a new lucrative $100 million Super League aimed at injecting financial muscle to the cash-strapped clubs on the continent.
Twenty-four clubs, yet to be decided, will take part in the first edition, which has the backing of world governing body FIFA. It will take place between August 2023 and May 2024.
CAF president Patrice Motsepe, who announced the new competition, did not say if it would replace CAF's existing Champions League and the second-tier Confederation Cup.
*) Republicans dub FBI raid on Trump house 'weaponised politicisation'
Top Republican leaders have thrown their support behind former US president Donald Trump after an FBI raid on his Florida residence sparked a political firestorm.
Trump's former vice president Mike Pence expressed "deep concern" and said the raid smacked of "partisanship" by the Justice Department.
Kevin McCarthy, who is seeking to become the next House of Representatives speaker, accused the Justice Department of "weaponised politicisation."
The FBI search marked a significant escalation of the federal investigation into whether Trump illegally removed records from the White House as he was leaving office.
*) US police arrest 'prime suspect' in New Mexico Muslim murders
New Mexico police have arrested a "prime suspect" believed to be involved in two of the four murders of Muslim men in Albuquerque.
Authorities charged 51-year-old Muhammad Syed in the killings of two Muslim men and he is suspected of slaying two others.
Police tracked down a vehicle of interest in their investigation of the murders, Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina wrote on Twitter.
Medina said "the driver was detained and is our primary suspect for the murders.”
*) Large explosions rock Russian air base in occupied Crimea
Powerful explosions have rocked a Russian air base in the occupied Crimea, killing one person and wounding several others, authorities said.
Russia's Defence Ministry said munitions blew up at the Saki base, and it emphasised that the installation had not been shelled.
But Ukrainian social networks were abuzz with speculation that it was hit by Ukrainian-fired long-range missiles.
There was no immediate comment from Ukrainian authorities as the conflict entered its 167th day.
*) Deadly IEDs target soldiers in northern Burkina Faso
At least 15 soldiers have been killed in northern Burkina Faso when a transport vehicle drove over a hidden explosive device.
The first explosion killed several troops before a second explosion killed those who rushed to their aid.
The incident occurred on a rural road in the Bam province of the country's Central-North region, where soldiers and civilians are routinely targeted by insurgents, the army said.
And finally…
*) Serena Williams announces retirement from tennis after US Open
Tennis great Serena Williams has said that she is planning to retire from the sport following the US Open which begins later this month.
Williams wrote in a Vogue article that she "never liked the word retirement." She said that she is "evolving away from tennis" to focus on having another child and her business interests.
Williams won her last Grand Slam in 2017 and has been chasing an elusive 24th crown that will draw her level with Margaret Court who holds the record for the most majors.
*) FBI 'raids' former US president Trump's house
Former US president Donald Trump says his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida has been "raided" by FBI agents in what he has called an act of "prosecutorial misconduct".
The FBI did not comment on whether the search was happening or what it might be for. Trump did not give any indication of why federal agents were at his home.
Multiple US media outlets cited sources as saying that agents were conducting a court-authorised search related to the potential mishandling of classified documents sent to Mar-a-Lago.
*) Kenya begins voting in close presidential election
Kenyans have lined up to vote in a high-stakes election as two political heavyweights battle it out in a fiercely contested race for the presidency.
The East African powerhouse is praying for a peaceful transition of power after almost a decade under President Uhuru Kenyatta, but concerns about vote-rigging linger.
Deputy president and erstwhile heir apparent William Ruto is pitted against Raila Odinga, a veteran opposition leader now backed by his longtime rival Kenyatta.
*) Taiwanese minister: China using war games to prepare for invasion
Taiwan's foreign minister has said China is using the military drills it launched in protest against US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit as a game-plan to prepare for an invasion.
Joseph Wu, speaking at a press conference in Taipei, offered no time-table for a possible invasion of Taiwan, a self-ruled island which is claimed by China as its own.
A Pentagon official had said on Monday that Washington was sticking to its assessment that China would not try to invade Taiwan for the next two years.
*) Two more ships carrying over 70,000 tonnes of grain leave Ukraine
Türkiye's National Defence Ministry has said two more ships carrying over 70,000 tonnes of grain have left Ukraine.
A Liberian-flagged ship carrying 64,720 tonnes of corn to South Korea set sail on Tuesday under a historic Türkiye-brokered deal to unblock Ukrainian grain exports.
A Turkish-flagged ship, carrying 5,300 tonnes of bulk sunflower meal to Istanbul, too left Ukraine, where shipments had been stuck for months due to Russia's military offensive.
And finally…
*) Grease star and Grammy-winning singer Olivia Newton-John dies at 73
After a 30-year battle with breast cancer, Grammy-winning superstar Olivia Newton-John has died at age 73.
Newton-John won countless hearts when she starred as Sandy in the blockbuster film version of “Grease” alongside John Travolta.
She reigned on pop, country, adult contemporary and dance charts with hits such as “Physical” and “You’re the One That I Want”. Her sales topped 100 million records.
*) Ceasefire takes effect between Israel, Palestinian group
An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian group Islamic Jihad has taken effect late on Sunday.
The ceasefire agreement came after three days of Israeli air strikes on Gaza.
The attacks left at least 44 Palestinians, including 15 children dead and over 360 others injured, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
Egyptian state news agency MENA reported that Egypt was exerting efforts to release Palestinian prisoners Khalil Awawdeh and Bassam al Saadi.
*) Senate Democrats pass $740B 'Inflation Reduction Act' package in US
The US Senate has passed a sweeping $430 billion bill intended to fight climate change, lower drug prices and raise some corporate taxes.
Amid Republican efforts to derail the package, the Senate approved the legislation known as the Inflation Reduction Act by a 51-50 party line vote. Vice President Kamala Harris cast the tie-breaking ballot.
That is a major victory for President Joe Biden that Democrats hope will aid their chances of keeping control of Congress in this year's elections.
*) Gustavo Petro sworn in as Colombia’s first leftist president
Gustavo Petro has taken the oath of office as Colombia's first-ever leftist president.
He was sworn in before a crowd of hundreds of thousands of people in Bogota.
Petro takes over from the deeply unpopular Ivan Duque for a four-year term during which he will enjoy support from a left-leaning majority in Congress.
*) Any attack on a nuclear plant in Ukraine 'suicidal' — UN
Any attack on a nuclear plant is "suicidal", United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has warned.
His statement comes after fresh reports suggested shelling hit a huge atomic power complex in southern Ukraine.
The fighting on Friday at the plant has prompted the UN's nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency to warn of "the very real risk of a nuclear disaster".
Guterres said "any attack to a nuclear plant is a suicidal thing,” adding that he hopes the “attacks will end."
And finally…
*) UK museum agrees to return looted Benin Bronzes to Nigeria
A London museum has agreed to return a collection of Benin Bronzes looted in the late 19th century from what is now Nigeria.
The decision comes after Nigeria’s National Commission for Museums and Monuments formally asked for the artefacts to be returned earlier this year.
Since then, cultural institutions throughout Britain have come under pressure to repatriate artefacts acquired during the colonial era.
*) China announces sanctions Pelosi over Taiwan visit: Foreign ministry
China has announced unspecified sanctions on US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for her visit earlier this week to Taiwan.
China is holding huge military drills involving live firing on the waters and in the airspace near Taiwan, which Beijing considers as its own territory, to protest the visit.
Taiwan says Beijing's fighter jets and ships have crossed the median line that runs down the Taiwan Strait, calling China "the evil neighbour next door".
*) Three more ships carrying grain leave Ukrainian ports under landmark deal
Three more ships carrying grain and food items have set out from Ukrainian ports under a recent landmark deal, according to Türkiye’s National Defence Ministry.
The first of them, a Panama-flagged ship, departed for Ireland with 33,000 tonnes of grain on Friday. The second, a Malta-flagged sip, left with 13,000 tonnes of grain for the UK.
The third Türkiye-flagged ship was sailing to the Karasu port in northwestern Türkiye with 12,000 tonnes of grain. All of them will be monitored by the Joint Coordination Centre in Istanbul.
*) Erdogan set to visit Russia for talks with Putin on Syria, Ukraine
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is visiting Russia's coastal city of Sochi to meet with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
They will evaluate bilateral ties, mainly focusing on economy, trade and energy on Friday. They are also expected to discuss Syria and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
It will be their second in-person meeting in 17 days, after their talks in Tehran. In the Iran capital, they also took part in a trilateral gathering with their Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi.
*) Deadly nightclub fire in Thailand leaves multiple casualties
At least 13 people have been killed and 35 injured when a fire broke out at a nightclub in an eastern province of Thailand.
The cause of the fire is unknown and all victims so far have been identified as Thai nationals, police said on Friday.
The fire at the Mountain B nightclub, about 180 kilometres southeast of the capital Bangkok, started at about 0100 local time, police said.
And finally…
*) Parts of Australia's Great Barrier Reef show record coral cover in 36 years
Two-thirds of Australia's Great Barrier Reef has shown the largest amount of coral cover in 36 years, the Australian Institute of Marine Sciences (AIMS) has reported.
However, the reef remains vulnerable to increasingly frequent mass bleaching.
The recovery in the central and northern stretches of the UNESCO world heritage-listed reef contrasted with the southern region, where there was a loss of coral cover due to crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks.
*) China begins military drills as Taiwan faces Pelosi visit fallout
China's largest-ever military exercises encircling Taiwan have kicked off, in a show of force after a controversial visit to the island state by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Taiwan's military said its forces were closely monitoring the Chinese drills and was prepared for conflict, but would not seek it.
The exercises, which began on Thursday, will be the biggest aimed at Taiwan since 1995, when China fired missiles in a large-scale exercise after a visit by the Taiwanese president to the US.
*) First Ukrainian grain ship leaves Istanbul for Lebanon
The first grain-laden ship to leave Ukraine since the conflict with Russia erupted has passed an inspection in Istanbul and set sail for Libya.
The inspection by a team from the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) in Istanbul was carried out on Wednesday and lasted over an hour.
The ship, carrying over 26,500 tonnes of corn, left Ukraine’s Odessa on Monday under a landmark deal brokered by Türkiye to resume grain shipments from blockaded Ukrainian ports.
*) Iran, US, EU envoys return to Vienna for revival of nuclear talks
Iran, the United States and the European Union have said they will send representatives to Vienna amid what appears to be a last-ditch effort at reviving the Iran nuclear talks.
The EU official who chairs the talks, Enrique Mora, wrote on Twitter that the negotiations would focus on the most recent draft on restoring the 2015 nuclear agreement.
It wasn't immediately clear from Wednesday's announcement if other parties to the landmark accord would attend the surprise summit.
*) Iraq's Sadr vows to continue parliament sit-in until demands met
Iraqi cleric Muqtada al Sadr has told his supporters to continue their sit-in occupation of the Baghdad Parliament until his demands are met. The demands include early elections and unspecified constitutional changes.
Thousands of followers of the Shia leader stormed the empty parliament building last weekend, staging a sit-in that is ongoing.
The move is a response to attempts by Sadr's Shia Muslim rivals to form a government with prime ministerial candidates that Sadr disapproves of.
And finally…
*) Myanmar announces birth of rare white elephant
A rare white elephant has been born in western Myanmar, state media has said.
Born last month in western Rakhine state, the baby weighs about 80 kilograms and stands roughly 70 centimetres tall.
Historically, white elephants were considered extremely auspicious in Southeast Asian culture, and the region's ancient rulers acquired as many as they could to boost their fortunes.
*) Pelosi stresses 'commitment to Taiwan' amid spiralling China tensions
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says her delegation's visit to Taipei is a show of support for the island, with the trip sparking a furious response from Beijing.
The United States wants Taiwan to always have freedom with security and will not back away from that, Nancy Pelosi has said.
China has announced multiple drills and issued a series of harsh statements after Pelosi landed in Taiwan, a self-ruled island that Beijing considers as its own.
*) West could trigger nuclear war over Ukraine: Russia
Moscow says the conflict in Ukraine does not warrant Russia's use of nuclear weapons.
At a nuclear nonproliferation conference, Russian diplomat Alexander Trofimov has rejected speculations that Russia threatens to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine.
Trofimov has said Moscow would only use nuclear weapons in response to weapons of mass destruction or a conventional weapons attack that threatened Russia’s existence.
*) UN: Truce in Yemen renewed for two months
Yemen's warring sides have agreed to renew a two-month truce hours before it was due to expire, the United Nations envoy says.
The move “includes a commitment from the parties to intensify negotiations to reach an expanded truce agreement as soon as possible," Hans Grundberg, special envoy for Yemen, has said.
US and Oman officials have also been engaging with parties to back Grundberg's proposal.
*) US warns of Al Qaeda retaliation against Americans after Zawahiri killing
The United States has warned Americans travelling abroad that they face an increased risk of violence after the killing of Al Qaeda chief Ayman al Zawahiri in a US drone strike.
The US State Department urged US citizens to "maintain a high level of vigilance and practise good situational awareness when travelling abroad".
Zawahiri’s killing in Kabul over the weekend dealt the biggest blow to Al Qaeda since the killing of Osama bin Laden in 2011.
*) European Jew buys Hitler’s watch in an auction amidst protests
A Maryland auction house has sold a wristwatch that once belonged to Adolf Hitler for $1.1 million to an anonymous bidder, who is believed to be a European Jew.
Alexander Historical Auctions estimated the value of the watch between $2 and $4 million, describing it as a “World War II relic of historic proportions.” It features the initials “AH” and a swastika.
Jewish leaders and others have objected to the sale this week. But the auction house's president has defended the auction and said the buyer is a European Jew.
*) US kills top Al Qaeda leader Ayman al Zawahiri
President Joe Biden has announced that Al Qaeda leader Ayman al Zawahiri has been killed in a US drone strike in Afghanistan.
The president said in an evening address from the White House that US intelligence officials tracked Zawahiri to a home in downtown Kabul where he had been hiding out with his family.
Zawahiri and the better-known Osama bin Laden had together plotted the 9/11 attacks.
Biden said his death delivered justice and hopefully “one more measure of closure” to families of the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States.
*) Russia uses Ukraine's nuclear plant as 'shield' – US
The US has said Russia is using Ukraine's biggest nuclear power plant as a "nuclear shield" by stationing troops there, preventing Ukrainian forces from returning fire and risking a terrible nuclear accident.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters that "of course the Ukrainians cannot fire back lest there be a terrible accident involving the nuclear plant".
He spoke after nuclear non-proliferation talks at the UN in New York on Monday.
The US also announced a new tranche of weapons for Ukraine's forces fighting Russia, including ammunition for rocket launchers and artillery guns.
*) UN chief warns of 'nuclear annihilation'
UN head Antonio Guterres has warned that a misunderstanding could spark nuclear destruction.
The statement came after the United States, Britain and France urged Russia to stop "its dangerous nuclear rhetoric and behaviour".
Guterres warned that the world faced "a nuclear danger not seen since the height of the Cold War".
*) US Pelosi's 'provocative' Taiwan visit to undermine ties – China
US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan will undermine relations between China and the US, China's UN ambassador has said.
Pelosi is set to visit Taiwan today, three sources said after the US said it would not be intimidated by Chinese warnings to “never sit idly by" if she made it there.
Zhang Jun told a news conference on Monday that "such a visit is apparently very much dangerous, very much provocative".
*) California: Largest blaze of the year claims lives as thousands evacuate
California's largest wildfire this year has claimed two lives after exploding in size over the weekend and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes.
Firefighters in the state's north battled to gain control of the McKinney Fire on Monday.
Whipped up by strong winds and lightning storms, the fire ripped through the state's dry terrain on Sunday.
*) First shipment of Ukraine grain leaves Odessa under Türkiye-brokered deal
As part of a recent deal brokered by Türkiye, the first ship carrying Ukrainian grain has departed from the port of Odessa to Lebanon.
Loaded with corn, the Sierra Leone-flagged dry cargo ship Razoni left Odessa on Monday morning, Türkiye’s Defence Ministry said in a statement.
The ship is carrying over 26,000 tonnes of corn, the Istanbul-based Joint Coordination Centre said.
An earlier statement by the Turkish Defence Ministry said other convoys would follow "along the (maritime) corridors as the "procedures are completed".
*) NATO-led KFOR ready to intervene amid Kosovo-Serbia tensions
NATO's forces in Kosovo are prepared to intervene if stability is endangered in the north of Kosovo, KFOR has said in a press release.
The commander of KFOR is in contact with all of his main interlocutors, as well as Serbian and Kosovar senior defence officials, to calm the tensions, the statement said.
Tensions between Pristina and Belgrade are running high as air raid sirens were heard for more than three hours in the small border town of Mitrovica.
*) UN chief urges de-escalation amid tensions over Iraqi PM nomination
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on Iraqi parties to de-escalate the situation and avoid violence amid tension over the nomination of a new prime minister.
In a statement on Saturday, Guterres’ spokesperson said the UN chief is "following with concern" the ongoing protests in Iraq that left many people injured.
The spokesperson urged Iraqi parties and actors "to rise above their differences and form, through peaceful and inclusive dialogue, an effective national government".
*) Moscow strikes Ukraine's south, drone hits Russian Crimean fleet
Ukraine said the "brutal" shelling by Moscow so far of the southern city Mykolaiv killed a grain tycoon.
Meanwhile, Russia claimed an attack from a drone wounded six personnel at the headquarters of its Black Sea fleet.
Russian bombardment of the eastern town of Bakhmut was intense after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for civilians to leave the frontline Donetsk region.
And finally…
*) Myanmar extends state of emergency for six months
Myanmar military leader Min Aung Hlaing has received the approval of the national defence and security council to extend his rule under a state of emergency for a further six months.
The Global New Light of Myanmar reported on Monday that the period of the declared state of emergency will be extended for another six months.
Myanmar has been in chaos since the coup, with conflict spreading across the Southeast Asian country after the army crushed mostly peaceful protests in cities.
*) Xi warns Biden not to 'play with fire' amid tensions over Taiwan
US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping have agreed to schedule their first in-person summit as leaders.
The decision came during a phone call, where Xi warned the United States not to "play with fire" in Taiwan.
In response, Biden reassured Xi that the US policy, known as "strategic ambiguity", was unchanged — essentially favouring the status quo in Taiwan.
Tensions are escalating over the self-ruled island that China considers its own, and there are fears that Xi could ultimately order an invasion to impose Beijing's rule.
*) UK: Russia puts Wagner fighters on frontline duty in eastern Ukraine
Russia has tasked Wagner Group mercenaries to hold sections of the frontline in Ukraine in a sign it is running short of combat infantry, Britain's Ministry of Defence has said.
The ministry said in an intelligence update that Russia is relying more on the forces from its private military company for frontline duties rather than their usual work in special operations.
However, the ministry said the mercenaries are unlikely to make up for the loss of regular infantry units or alter the trajectory of Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.
*) Venezuela, Colombia agree to reestablish diplomatic relations
Venezuela and Colombia will reestablish diplomatic relations at an ambassadorial level when leftist President-elect Gustavo Petro takes office in Bogota in August.
Venezuela's minister of foreign relations, Carlos Faria, hosted Colombia's Foreign Minister-elect Alvaro Leyva in San Cristobal on Thursday.
Leyva read out a statement saying that both men had "expressed their desire to progress…towards the gradual normalisation of bilateral relations."
Relations between the two countries were broken in 2019 after Colombian President Ivan Duque refused to recognise the reelection of his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro.
*) Two foreign climbers ascending Pakistan's peaks announced dead
An Australian and a Canadian mountain climber died last week in northern Pakistan while attempting to scale K2, the world’s second-highest mountain.
Pakistan’s The Dawn newspaper reported earlier this week that the two climbers had been spotted between Camp 1 and Camp 2 on K2 after they both went missing on July 19 in separate incidents.
K2, on the Chinese-Pakistani border in the Karakorum Range, has one of the deadliest records, with most climbers dying on the descent, where the slightest mistake can trigger an avalanche and become fatal.
*) UN resolution recognises right to clean, healthy environment
The UN General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a resolution recognising the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.
The 193-member world body voted 161-0 on the resolution on Thursday, a move that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called “historic.”
The resolution calls on all nations, international organisations and businesses to scale up efforts to ensure a healthy environment for all people.
*) Türkiye inaugurates Joint Coordination Centre for Ukraine grain exports
Türkiye has opened a joint coordination centre for Ukrainian grain exports under an Ankara-brokered deal aimed at resuming shipments halted in the aftermath of Russia's attacks on Ukraine.
Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar unveiled the centre in front of reporters at a ceremony held at the National Defence University in Istanbul on Wednesday.
The grain deal and the coordination centre will make "significant contributions" to overcoming the food crisis impacting the entire world, he said.
*) Russia 'redeploys' troops to south Ukraine, faces Kherson counter-attack
Russian forces are conducting a "massive redeployment" of troops to three southern regions, according to a Ukrainian official.
The Russian redeployment to the south appears to be a switch to strategic defence from offence, the official said, as Kiev's forces look to recapture Kherson.
Meanwhile, Russian-backed forces said they captured the Vuhlehirsk power plant intact, in what was Moscow's first significant gain in more than three weeks.
*) Kim Jong-un threatens to use nukes amid tensions with US, South Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has warned he’s ready to use his nuclear weapons in potential military conflicts with the United States and South Korea, state media has said.
Experts say North Korea will likely intensify its threats against the US and South Korea as the allies prepare to expand summertime military exercises.
But while Kim has increasingly threatened his rivals with nuclear weapons, it’s unlikely that he would use them first against the superior militaries of the US and its allies, observers say.
*) Attacks kill dozens of civilians, soldiers in Mali
At least 66 people have been killed in attacks in Mali, according to security sources.
A report on the fighting showed 54 dead, including six soldiers, and 25 soldiers wounded in south-central Mali. There were also reports of 12 fatalities in the Nara region near the Mauritanian border.
The report said a coordinated response was orchestrated against the attackers, who were routed. The assessment of the attack is still ongoing, according to military authorities.
*) Facebook parent Meta’s earnings drop, misses expectations
Facebook parent company Meta has reported that its quarterly revenue dropped year-over-year for the first time ever, as its profit plunged by more than a third.
Meta said revenue in the recently ended quarter ebbed a percent to $28.8 billion when compared to the same period a year ago, missing market expectations.
The news reflects a troubled landscape for the social media powerhouse, which is battling the rising phenomenon of TikTok and a turbulent global economy.
*) EU members strike deal to reduce gas use as Russia pummels Ukraine targets
European Union member states have reached agreement on how to cut their consumption of gas by 15 percent and reduce their dependence on Russian supplies.
The breakthrough came hours after Ukraine accused Russian forces of launching multiple missile strikes at targets on the Black Sea coast near the southern port city of Odessa.
Luxembourg's energy minister tweeted that Hungary was the only member state in the 27-member bloc to vote against the plan.
*) Powerful earthquake strikes northern Philippines, felt in capital
A 7.1-magnitude earthquake has hit the northern Philippines, authorities said, killing at least four people and injuring more than 60 others.
The shallow yet powerful quake struck the mountainous and lightly populated province of Abra on the main island of Luzon early on Wednesday, the US Geological Survey said.
Philippine President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, has ordered the immediate dispatch of rescue teams to the affected areas, said the press secretary.
*) Biden, Xi to meet amid new tensions over Taiwan
Presidents Joe Biden and SHE Jinping are set to speak on Thursday amid new tensions between Washington and Beijing over China's claims on Taiwan.
The planned talks between the two leaders — the fifth in a series of regular check-ins — have been in the works for weeks.
But the possibility of a visit to Taiwan by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, has added fresh strain to the complicated relationship.
Beijing is warning that it will take “forceful measures” should Pelosi visit the self-ruled island of Taiwan that China claims as part of its territory.
*) ‘We may just have to do it again’: Trump hints at rerun for White House
Donald Trump has returned to Washington for the first time since leaving the White House with a fiery speech hinting that he may run for president again in 2024.
Trump repeated claims that he won the 2020 election, and denounced the House committee investigation into the January 6 attack on the US Capitol.
The 76-year-old stopped short of declaring his candidacy, but laid out what he believed should be the priorities for the "next Republican president."
And finally…
*) Russia to quit International Space Station, pursue own orbital station
Russia has announced that it will be leaving the International Space Station "after 2024", amid tensions with the West.
The move came on Tuesday as ties unravelled between the Kremlin and the West over Moscow's military intervention in Ukraine and several rounds of devastating sanctions against Russia.
Space experts said the departure from the station would seriously affect the country's space sector and deal a major blow to the programme of manned flights.
*) Erdogan: Participants of Ukraine grain deal must respect pact
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on the signatories of an Ankara-brokered deal aimed at unblocking Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea to respect the pact.
Erdogan said he expected everyone to act in accordance with their responsibilities. His remark came after a Russian attack on the port of Odessa sparked fresh concerns.
Last week, Türkiye, the UN, Russia and Ukraine signed the landmark agreement. In his interview to Türkiye's public broadcaster TRT, Erdogan said failure on the deal would work against all.
*) Pope apologises for 'evil' against Canada's Indigenous people
Pope Francis has apologised for the "evil" inflicted on the Indigenous peoples of Canada on a visit focused on addressing decades of abuse at Catholic-run residential schools.
The 85-year-old pontiff said he also begs forgiveness for "cultural destruction" and the "physical, verbal, psychological and spiritual abuse" of children over decades.
The plea was made before a crowd of Indigenous peoples in western Alberta province.
*) Saied's supporters celebrate as Tunisians back constitution
Tunisian President Kais Saied's supporters are celebrating the almost certain victory of the "yes" vote in a referendum on a new constitution that strengthens the powers of the head of state.
The referendum saw about 27.5 percent of 9.3 million registered voters cast ballots. An overwhelming 92-93 percent of those who voted supported the new constitution.
The vote was held a year to the day after Saied sacked the government and froze parliament in what rivals call a coup.
*) Satellite operators Eutelsat, OneWeb agree to merge
French and British satellite operators Eutelsat and OneWeb have announced plans to merge and create a "global champion" in broadband internet, rivalling US giants such as Elon Musk's Starlink.
Eutelsat will combine its 36-strong fleet of geostationary Earth orbit satellites with OneWeb's constellation of 648 low Earth orbit satellites to create what they called a powerful player.
Satellite broadband promises to bring coverage to the most remote areas of the planet by doing away with the need for antennas and other infrastructure.
*) US to plant 1B trees amid climate crisis challenges
The Biden administration has said it will plant more than one billion trees across millions of acres of burned and dead woodlands in the US West.
The move comes at a time when officials are struggling to counter the increasing toll on the nation's forests from wildfires, insects and other manifestations of the climate crisis.
The US Agriculture Department said it will have to quadruple the number of tree seedlings produced by nurseries to get through the backlog and meet future needs.
*) Ukraine vows to take Kherson back by Sept as fighting enters sixth month
A Ukrainian official has said the country's southern region of Kherson, which fell to Russian troops early in their February offensive, will be recaptured by September.
The Ukrainian army, emboldened by deliveries of Western-supplied long-range artillery, has been clawing back territory in the Kherson region in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, there was no let-up in fighting as the conflict entered its sixth month, with the Ukrainian military reporting Russian shelling in the north, south and east.
*) Tunisia votes on new constitution bolstering president's grip on power
Tunisians are voting in a referendum on a new constitution that critics of President Kais Saied fear will hurt the democracy that emerged from a 2011 revolution by handing him nearly total power.
Monday's vote is being held on the first anniversary of Saied's ousting of an elected parliament, when he established emergency rule and began governing by fiat.
It is not clear when the results will be announced after polls close at 2100 GMT, but analysts expect a 'yes' vote with low turnout.
*) Myanmar junta executes pro-democracy activists
Myanmar has carried out its first executions in nearly 50 years, hanging a former lawmaker, a democracy activist and two men accused of violence after the country's takeover by the military last year.
The announcement sparked widespread condemnation and heightened fears that more death sentences will be carried out.
The four were executed for leading "brutal and inhumane terror acts", the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported, without saying when or how the men were killed.
*) Pope arrives in Canada for 'penitential pilgrimage' over Indigenous abuse
Pope Francis will visit a former residential school in Canada, where he is expected to make a historic personal apology to Indigenous survivors of abuse committed over decades at the Catholic-run institutions.
The 85-year-old pontiff arrived on Sunday in Edmonton for a six-day visit, which has long been awaited by the First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities.
The trip is primarily to apologise to survivors for the Church's role in the scandal that a national truth and reconciliation commission has called "cultural genocide".
*) Muhammad Ali's 'Rumble in the Jungle' belt fetches $6.1M at auction
Muhammad Ali's championship belt from his 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" heavyweight title fight has been sold at an auction for $6.18 million.
The winner of the heated competition for the belt was Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, according to Heritage Auctions in Dallas.
In a tweet, Irsay confirmed he acquired the belt for his collection of rock music, American history and pop culture memorabilia that is currently touring the country.
*) Ukraine grain exports deal set to be signed in Türkiye
An agreement to restart grain shipments from Ukraine is set to be signed in Istanbul — a move that could ease a global food crisis that has sent wheat and other grain prices soaring.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UN chief Antonio Guterres will attend the ceremony, where officials from Russia and Ukraine will be present.
Ankara and the UN have been working on a plan to export grain stuck in Ukraine’s Black Sea ports due to the conflict between Kiev and Moscow.
*) Sri Lanka gets new PM as security forces clear key protest site
Senior Sri Lankan lawmaker Dinesh Gunawardena has been sworn in as the crisis-hit country’s new prime minister.
Seen as an ally of the Rajapaksa family, his appointment came hours after security forces cleared a protest site occupied by demonstrators angry at the Rajapaksas over a dire economic crisis.
The 73-year-old Gunawardena is a school classmate of new President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was elected by lawmakers and sworn into office earlier this week.
*) Israel's Supreme Court rules 'disloyal' citizens can be stripped of status
Israel's Supreme Court has ruled that the state can revoke the citizenship of people who are involved in actions such as terrorism, espionage or treason.
Thursday's ruling came after separate appeals in the cases of two Palestinian citizens of Israel. The court denied the removal of their citizenship, but said the practice itself was constitutional.
It said the interior minister would have to grant permanent residency in such cases. Palestinian rights activists fear the law could be used "against Palestinian citizens of Israel".
*) US Capitol riot probe slams Trump inaction, urges accountability
A House panel probing the assault on the US Capitol laid out a searing indictment of Donald Trump's refusal to halt or condemn the violence and insisted he should be held accountable.
Committee chairperson Bennie Thompson, speaking at the televised finale of a series of public hearings, said Trump "recklessly blazed a path of lawlessness and corruption" as he sought to overturn the results of the 2020 US election.
Trump was “the only person in the world who could call off the mob” that stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, but he refused to do so for several hours, Thompson said.
*) Conservationists: Tiger numbers rising, monarch butterflies near extinction
There are 40 percent more tigers in the wild than previously thought, but they remain an endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
The jump in numbers is due to improved monitoring, with a maximum of 5,578 tigers on the prowl, IUCN says. Habitat protection projects showed that "recovery is possible".
The reassessment came as the IUCN updated its Red List of Threatened Species.The monarch butterfly is now classified as an endangered species due to climate crisis and habitat destruction.
*) Russia announces expanded Ukraine goals as toll mounts amid fierce battles
Ukrainian armed forces say they have killed over one hundred Russian soldiers in the south and east in 24 hours as fierce battles rage in the country.
This comes after Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov suggested that his country’s military "tasks" in Ukraine now go beyond the eastern Donbass region.
Lavrov said Moscow's objectives will expand further if the West keeps supplying Kiev with advanced weapons.
*) Italy's Draghi resigns after government implodes
Italian Premier Mario Draghi has resigned after key coalition allies boycotted a confidence vote, signalling a renewed period of uncertainty for Italy.
President Sergio Mattarella asked Draghi to remain in office in a caretaker capacity, the head of state's office said. The statement did not say whether Mattarella would dissolve parliament or call early elections.
Draghi’s government imploded on Thursday after members of his uneasy coalition of right, left and populists rebuffed his appeal to band back together to finish the legislature’s natural term.
*) Ranil Wickremesinghe sworn in as Sri Lanka president amid crisis
Sri Lanka’s six-time prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, has been sworn in as the new president of the country.
He was elected by lawmakers in parliament on Wednesday after weeks of political turmoil and protests triggered by a dire economic crisis.
Wickremesinghe has vowed to take tough action against anyone resorting to violent protests.
*) Race to become UK PM down to final two
Britain’s Conservative Party has chosen former Treasury chief Rishi Sunak and Foreign Secretary Liz Truss as the two finalists in a party election to replace outgoing Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Wednesday's result came just after Johnson, who has plunged his party into turmoil, ended his final appearance in Parliament as prime minister.
Sunak and Truss came first and second respectively in a secret vote by Conservative lawmakers. Trade Minister Penny Mordaunt came in third and was eliminated.
And finally…
*) World's oldest male giant panda dies at age 35 in Hong Kong
The oldest-ever male giant panda in captivity has died at a Hong Kong theme park at age 35 – the equivalent of 105 years in human age.
Ocean Park mourned An An as a family member who built bonds with locals and tourists. Within an hour of the park announcing his death, hundreds of tributes appeared under the social media post.
An An had high blood pressure, a common condition among geriatric pandas. He stopped eating solid food and was significantly less active in recent days.
*) Leaders of Türkiye, Russia, Iran vow to oppose terrorist presence in Syria
Leaders of Türkiye, Russia and Iran have condemned the increased presence and activities of terrorist groups and their affiliates in various parts of Syria.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and Iran's Ebrahim Raisi met in Tehran on Tuesday for the seventh summit in the Astana format.
During the talks, they "rejected all attempts to create new realities on the ground...including illegitimate self-rule initiatives" in the war-torn country.
*) Six-time PM Wickremesinghe wins Sri Lanka presidency
Six-time prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has been elected president of crisis-hit Sri Lanka by the country's parliament.
The 73-year-old takes charge of a bankrupt nation that is in bailout talks with the IMF, with its 22 million people enduring severe shortages of food, fuel and medicine.
Wickremesinghe’s election risks reigniting political turmoil as he is the backed by the party of ex-leader Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled abroad after his palace was stormed by protesters.
*) UK hits hottest temperature on record as Western Europe sizzles
Soaring temperatures continue across much of Western Europe, with Britain recording its highest-ever temperature of more than 40 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, deadly wildfires in France, Portugal, Spain and Greece have forced thousands of people to leave their homes.
Experts blame climate change for the latest heat wave and warn the extreme weather will only worsen in years to come.
*) US alleges Russia 'laying groundwork' to annex eastern Ukraine regions
The United States has accused Russia of moving ahead with plans to annex additional Ukrainian territory.
John Kirby, the chief National Security Council spokesperson, said the Russians are preparing to install proxy officials, establish the rouble as the default currency and force residents to apply for citizenship.
Kirby said the areas targeted for annexation include Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and all of Donetsk and Luhansk. There was no immediate reaction from Moscow.
And finally…
*) Netflix subscriber numbers drop for second straight quarter
Netflix has reported losing subscribers for the second quarter in a row as the streaming giant battles fierce competition. But it has assured investors of better days ahead.
The loss of 970,000 paying customers in the most recent quarter was not as large as expected. The company said in its earnings report that it expected to gain a million paid subscribers in the current quarter.
Analysts noted that the results, even if not as poor as feared, were still troubling.
*) Sri Lankan opposition withdraws from presidential race last-minute
Sri Lanka's main opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has withdrawn from the country's presidential election in favour of a ruling party dissident.
Premadasa announced the move on Twitter minutes before nominations formally opened.
He said "for the greater good” of the country, his party will support Dullas Alahapperuma, a senior ruling party lawmaker, to replace Gotabaya Rajapaksa who resigned last week.
Alahapperuma is up against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who took over as acting president - and leftist leader Anura Dissanayake.
*) Ukraine sacks more officials amid intense Russia shelling
As Russia has kept up its relentless shelling across Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expanded the shakeup of his security services.
Zelenskyy has suspended 28 more officials, a day after he dismissed two senior officials over allegations that their agencies harboured "collaborators and traitors."
In his new video address, Zelenskyy said a "personnel audit" of the Security Service of Ukraine was under way.
*) Erdogan meets Raisi in Tehran to discuss bilateral, regional issues
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met his Iranian counterpart Ebrahim Raisi for talks in Tehran. Bilateral and regional matters are the top issues on the agenda.
Erdogan and Raisi will co-chair the 7th Meeting of the Türkiye-Iran High Level Cooperation Council. All aspects of bilateral ties and potential steps to enhance bilateral cooperation will be discussed.
Erdogan and Raisi will later meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for discussions on developments in Syria and the fight against the terrorist organizations.
*) New Ecuador prison brawl leaves multiple inmates dead
Thirteen inmates have been killed and two others wounded in yet another violent fight in a notorious Ecuadorian prison, law enforcement officials said.
The incident took place at the same Bellavista prison in the town of Santo Domingo de los Colorados – about 80 kilometres from Quito, where 44 inmates were killed in a bloody brawl in May.
Prison officials, aided by the military and the police, were able to regain control of the facility, the South American country's prison authority said.
*) Europe broils as heatwave shatters temperature records
A heatwave broiling Europe has spilled northward to Britain and fuelled wildfires in Spain and France, where thousands of residents have been evacuated.
Two people were killed in the blazes in Spain that its prime minister linked to global heating. He said "climate change kills".
That toll comes on top of the hundreds of heat-related deaths reported in the Iberian peninsula.
High temperatures have gripped the continent in recent days and triggered wildfires from Portugal to the Balkans.
*) Sri Lanka's interim president declares emergency
Sri Lanka's acting President Ranil Wickremesinghe has declared a state of emergency as his administration seeks to quell social unrest and tackle the country’s economic crisis.
Ousted president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled overseas to escape an uprising against his government, has said he took "all possible steps" to avert the economic crisis.
Sri Lanka’s parliament is meeting on Tuesday to accept nominations for the post of president. A vote to decide the country's leader is set to take place on Wednesday.
*) Ukraine's Zelenskyy sacks top officials as Russia warns of 'doomsday'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired the head of the country's security service and its prosecutor general, citing criminal proceedings into treason and collaboration by people within their departments.
He said over 650 cases of suspected treason and aiding and abetting Russia by Ukrainian security officials are currently being investigated.
Meanwhile, Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy head of Russia's Security Council, responded to Ukrainian officials' statements that Kiev may strike the bridge linking Moscow-annexed Crimea and Russia.
Medvedev warned that it would trigger devastating consequences for Ukraine.
*) US probe cites 'systemic failures' in Texas school massacre
A US probe of the Texas school shooting that left 21 dead has blamed "systemic failures" and poor leadership for contributing to the death toll.
The report investigated why it took more than an hour for police to confront and kill the 18-year-old gunman at Robb Elementary School on May 24.
Meanwhile, the latest gun violence at a US mall in Indiana state has left four people dead, including the gunman.
The attacker opened fire with a rifle in a food court, and an armed civilian shot him, US police said.
*) Ex-PM Khan's party scores landslide win in key Pakistan state by-election
Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has called again for an early national election after his party seized control of the state assembly in Punjab province.
The opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party won 15 out of 20 provincial assembly seats, consolidating its lead for the post of the chief minister of Punjab, local media reports.
Khan tweeted early on Monday after the Punjab votes were tallied that “the only way forward from here is to hold free and transparent elections.”
*) Wildfires rage across southwest Europe amid scorching weather
Wildfires across southwest Europe have shown no signs of abating, as parts of the continent readied for new temperature records early next week.
Firefighters in France, Portugal, Spain and Greece continued to battle forest blazes on Sunday.
Thousands of hectares of land have been ravaged, several personnel have been killed and thousands of people have been forced to decamp since the start of the week.
*) Ex-Japan PM Shinzo Abe shot, suspect detained
Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has died after being shot during a campaign speech in western Japan.
The 67-year-old was shot from behind as he was giving a political speech in Nara prefecture in western Japan, local media said.
A man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder.
*) Ukraine crisis extends to G20 summit as Russia meets rivals in Indonesia
Indonesia has called for all parties to find a way to end the war in Ukraine on day 2 of the G20 summit in Bali.
It is the first face-to-face meeting in four months between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and some of the Kremlin's biggest critics.
US and European officials warn these talks will not be 'business as usual.'
*) Muslim pilgrims pray at Mount Arafat for climax of biggest Covid-era Hajj
After two years of the Covid-19 pandemic, hundreds of thousands of worshippers have gathered to offer prayers of repentance on the sacred hill of Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia.
It is an intense day of worship considered to be the climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage at Islam's holiest site in Mecca.
Saudi Arabia has eased travel restrictions allowing one million fully vaccinated worshippers from both inside and outside the country to attend.
*) Ex-officer gets 21 years in prison for violating George Floyd's rights
Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted of the murder of George Floyd, has been sentenced to more than 20 years in prison on US federal charges.
Chauvin pleaded guilty in December 2021 to violating the civil rights of Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, during his May 2020 arrest.
Chauvin, who is white, was captured in a video that went viral, kneeling on Floyd's neck for nearly 10 minutes until he passed out and died.
Floyd’s murder sparked massive protests in the US and around the world against racism and police brutality.
*) Bob Dylan's unique 2021 disk sells for $1.77 million at auction
The only copy of a disk of Bob Dylan's "Blowin' In The Wind" that the singer-songwriter recorded in 2021 has been sold for $1.77 million at an auction.
The disk, in the new Ionic Original audio format, was Dylan's first studio recording of the folk classic since 1962.
Dylan reportedly wrote the song in just 10 minutes in a Greenwich Village cafe in New York City in 1962.
*) UK PM Johnson resigns as Conservative party leader after turmoil
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has resigned as the leader of the Conservative party after the latest ethics scandal around his leadership led some 50 senior lawmakers to quit the government. Johnson said outside 10 Downing Street he will resign as “it is clearly the will of the Conservative party that there should be a new leader. His resignation will trigger an internal election to pick a new leader of the Conservative Party, who will also be the next prime minister.
*) Ukraine 'repels' some Russian advances in Donbass In eastern Ukraine, Russia continues to bombard the city of Slovyansk, forcing hundreds of civilians to flee.
The Ukrainian military has claimed it has repelled enemy units from advancing towards the city, as well as Russian attacks on a town and village north of Ukraine's second city, Kharkiv near the Russian border.
Russian forces are advancing in the Donetsk region, after it took over neighbouring Luhansk.
*) Austrian parliament unanimously adopts Srebrenica genocide resolution
Austria's parliament has unanimously adopted a resolution on the genocide in Srebrenica.
The resolution honours more than 8,000 Muslim Bosniaks who were killed by units of the Bosnian Serb Army of Republika Srpska and a paramilitary unit in the town on July 11, 1995.
It also declared July 11 a day of mourning and condemned public denial of the mass killings
*) Iran 'detains' UK diplomat, other foreigners for alleged spying
Iran's Revolutionary Guard has detained several foreigners, including Britain's second most senior envoy in Tehran, for allegedly engaging in espionage and taking soil samples from prohibited military zones.
State media reported that the foreigners had been arrested, but did not elaborate on when this happened. The UK Foreign Office denied that its diplomat was among those arrested.
The accusations follow escalating tensions over a rise in the number of arrests made on foreigners in Tehran and the rapid advancement of its nuclear plans.
And finally…
*) Netflix confirms 'Stranger Things' spinoff series and stage play
Netflix has confirmed that its popular show "Stranger Things" is getting a spin-off series and a new stage play set within its supernatural world.
The sci-fi horror following a group of teenagers in a fictional US town as they battle monsters from another dimension is one of Netflix's flagship and most-watched shows,
The announcement comes as Netflix continues to face pressure, having lost subscribers earlier this year after years of uninterrupted growth.
*) Evacuation calls as Russians advance in Ukraine's Donbass
Ukraine has called on civilians to urgently evacuate the Sloviansk city in the Donetsk region as Russian troops press towards it in their campaign to secure the Donbass region.
The governor of the Donetsk region said at least two people have been killed and seven others wounded in an attack on a marketplace in Sloviansk. He told Ukrainian media that his "main advice is evacuate!"
Sloviansk has been subjected to "massive" Russian bombardment following Russia’s seizure of the Luhansk region.
*) Senior UK cabinet ministers resign, plunging govt into chaos
Two of the United Kingdoms’ most senior ministers have resigned in a move that could spell the end of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s leadership after months of scandals.
Rishi Sunak resigned as finance minister and Sajid Javid as health secretary. Both said they could no longer tolerate the culture of scandal that has stalked Johnson for months.
The resignations followed the allegations that the UK PM failed to come clean about a lawmaker who was appointed to a senior position despite claims of sexual misconduct.
*) Palestinian killed during Israeli raid in West Bank
A Palestinian man has been killed by Israeli forces during a raid in the occupied West Bank.
The Palestinian Health Ministry said 20-year-old Rafiq Riyad Ghannem was shot dead near the northern West Bank city of Jenin.
Israel says it conducts military raids due to security risks, but rights groups argue that they have been deployed as a tool to suppress Palestinian resistance.
At least 70 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli army fire since the beginning of this year.
*) South Korea warns of stern retaliation in case of provocation from North
South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol has ordered the military to "promptly and sternly" retaliate in case of any North Korean provocation.
Yoon called for strong capabilities to deter North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes after presiding over his first meeting with top military commanders.
North Korea has this year been conducting missile tests at an unprecedented pace and is believed to be preparing for its seventh nuclear test.
*) Muslim pilgrims begin largest Hajj since Covid pandemic
The largest Hajj pilgrimage since the pandemic took over the world has kicked off, with hundreds of thousands of worshippers expected to circle Islam's holiest site in Saudi Arabia's Mecca.
This year's Hajj will commence, with 1 million fully vaccinated Muslims expected to participate.
It is a major break from two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the pandemic.
The pilgrimage consists of a series of religious rites that are completed over five days in Islam's holiest city and its surroundings in western Saudi Arabia.
*) Putin declares victory in eastern Ukraine region of Luhansk
Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared victory in the eastern Ukrainian region of Luhansk.
Putin said that the military units “that took part in active hostilities and achieved victory” in Luhansk, “should rest, increase their combat capabilities.”
The declaration came as Russian forces tried to press their offensive deeper into eastern Ukraine after Kiev confirmed that its forces had withdrawn from Lysychansk.
*) Ukraine reconstruction estimated to cost $750B
Allies of Ukraine meeting in Switzerland have been set to adopt a declaration spelling out the principles and priorities of rebuilding the war-shattered country.
Kiev said the recovery "is already estimated at $750 billion", insisting that seized Russian assets should be used to pay for the recovery.
It also proposed that allied countries "adopt" specific regions of Ukraine, and lead the recovery there to render it more efficient.
*) July 4 mass shooting
Police have arrested a suspect after a mass shooting left six dead at a US Independence Day parade in a wealthy Chicago suburb.
Emergency officials said around two dozen people, including children, were treated for gunshot injuries, with some in critical condition.
In another July 4 shooting, two police officers were wounded when they came under fire during a fireworks display in Philadelphia.
The shootings are part of a wave of gun violence plaguing the US, where approximately 40,000 deaths a year are caused by firearms.
*) Italy declares state of emergency in drought-hit regions
Italy has declared a state of emergency in five northern regions over a worsening drought that has plagued the region in recent weeks.
The government said the state of emergency will last until December 31, announcing a 38 million dollar fund to help those affected.
Italy is facing an unusually early heatwave and a lack of rainfall, and has been hit by its worst drought in 70 years.
*) Joey Chestnut wins July 4 hot dog contest
Joey Chestnut has wolfed down 63 hot dogs in 10 minutes to win again the annual July 4 competitive eating contest.
Chestnut has now won 15 times, though the recent 63 hot dogs fell way short of the record he set in 2020 when he downed 76 hotdogs in just 10 minutes.
For that, Chestnut apologised to the crowd and said he would do better next year.
*) Russia claims Luhansk, Ukraine vows return
Russia has gained full control over Ukraine's Luhansk region after capturing the last major city, Lysychansk, following weeks of fierce fighting with Kiev’s forces.
The Ukrainian army said its soldiers had retreated from the strategic eastern city in order to preserve the lives of Ukrainian defenders.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy vowed to restore control over the area.
Ukrainian authorities said Russia would shift the main focus of its offensive to trying to seize all of the Donetsk region.
*) Ukraine recovery meet to open in Switzerland
Leaders from dozens of countries, international organisations and the private sector have gathered in Switzerland to hash out a plan to rebuild conflict-hit Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warned that the work ahead in the areas that have been liberated alone was "colossal".
He added that over 2,000 villages and towns in the east and south of Ukraine still had to be freed.
The two-day conference had been planned well before Russia launched its full-scale offensive on February 24, originally slated to discuss reforms in Ukraine.
*) Copenhagen mall shooting
A gunman has opened fire in a Copenhagen shopping mall, killing three people and wounding several others.
The suspected gunman, a 22-year-old Danish man, is in custody.
Danish police believe the shooting was not terror-related.
They said the gunman acted alone and appears to have selected his victims at random.
*) Evacuations in Australia’s Sydney
Australia has ordered thousands of people in Sydney to evacuate as overflowing rivers have swamped swathes of land.
Australian authorities said about 32,000 people were under evacuation orders or warnings in New South Wales.
On the third day of torrential rains on the east coast, rescuers said they had saved about 20 people in the past 12 hours, many trapped in cars on flood-swept roads.
And finally…
*) Biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic
Muslims from across the world have packed the streets of Mecca as Islam's holiest city prepares to host the biggest Hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic.
One million people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's Hajj after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the pandemic.
Authorities say at least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far to converge on the holy city to retrace the Prophet Muhammad's last pilgrimage.
*) Missile strikes leaves many dead in Ukraine's Odessa
Seventeen people have been killed in missile strikes on an apartment building and recreation centre in southern Ukraine's Odessa region, authorities said.
Fourteen were killed and 30 wounded in the strike on a nine-storey apartment block, the emergency services said on Telegram.
Odessa military administration spokesperson said the missiles were fired by aircraft that flew in from the Black Sea.
Greece says Türkiye has 'reasonable concerns' on terrorism
Türkiye has legitimate concerns about terrorism, the Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said, telling media at the NATO summit that Ankara "paid a heavy price".
He said Türkiye has some reasonable concerns when it comes to the issue of terrorism perpetrated by organisations like PKK or YPG.
“Türkiye has paid a heavy price for such terrorist acts," Mitsotakis told a press conference at the summit in Madrid.
*) China's Xi swears in new Hong Kong chief on its handover anniversary
Chinese President Xi Jinping has officiated the swearing-in ceremony of Hong Kong's new leader John Lee as the city marked the 25th anniversary of its return from Britain to China.
Xi said Hong Kong's "true democracy" started after the city's handover to China from colonial Britain 25 years ago.
He said after reuniting with the motherland, Hong Kong's people became the masters of their own city.
*) Anti-coup protests turn deadly in Sudan as thousands take to streets
Four Sudanese demonstrators have been killed with thousands of anti-coup protesters taking to the streets demanding an end to the military rule.
Protesters urged the reversal of the October military coup by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan that prompted foreign governments to slash aid, deepening an economic crisis.
Security forces were reported to have fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse demonstrations.
And finally…
*) N. Korea suggests balloons flown from South brought Covid-19
North Korea has suggested its Covid-19 outbreak began in people who had contact with balloons flown from South Korea.
Activists for years have flown balloons across the border to distribute hundreds of thousands of propaganda leaflets critical of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un
South Korea’s Unification Ministry said there was no chance South Korean balloons might have spread the virus to North Korea.
*) Finland, Sweden get official invite to join NATO after Türkiye's consent
NATO has officially invited Finland and Sweden to become members of the alliance.
The announcement came as part of the Madrid summit declaration following the meeting of NATO heads of state and government.
NATO welcomed the conclusion of the trilateral memorandum between Türkiye, Finland, and Sweden.
Israel lawmakers dissolve parliament, set election for November 1
Israel’s parliament has voted to dissolve itself and send the country to the polls in November for the fifth time in less than four years.
Yair Lapid, Israel’s foreign minister and architect of the outgoing coalition government, will become the country’s caretaker prime minister just after midnight on Friday.
He will be the 14th person to hold that office, taking over from Naftali Bennett, Israel's shortest serving prime minister.
New elections will be held on November 1.
*) Amnesty accuses Russia of bombing Mariupol theatre
A theatre sheltering civilians destroyed in March in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol was likely hit by a Russian air strike in a "war crime," says Amnesty International report.
Oksana Pokalchuk, head of Amnesty's Ukraine branch said "We were speaking about an alleged war crime. Now we can clearly say it was one, committed by the Russian armed forces,"
She dismissed the Russian claims that the theatre was hit in a false-flag attack by the city's Ukrainian defenders.
*) US govt 'supports' F-16 fighter jet sales to Türkiye
The Biden administration has thrown its support behind the potential sale of US F-16 fighter jets to Türkiye.
Celeste Wallander, Assistant Secretary for Defense for International Security Affairs at Pentagon, told media that strong Turkish defence capabilities would reinforce NATO's defences.
Wallander said that the US supports Türkiye's modernisation of its fighter fleet because that is a contribution to NATO security and therefore American security.
And finally…
*) First ever 'Africa Fashion' exhibition opens in UK
UK's most extensive exhibition of African fashion is set to open in London, showcasing designers past and present, as well as the continent's diverse heritage and cultures.
"Africa Fashion", at the Victoria and Albert Museum, is the country's first exhibition dedicated to the medium.
The exhibition includes objects, sketches, photos and film from across the continent, starting from the African liberation years to up-and-coming contemporary designers.
*) Türkiye's memorandum with Sweden, Finland
Turkiye has lifted its objection to the NATO membership bids of Sweden and Finland, after a breakthrough in talks in Madrid.
Ankara had previously blocked the two countries from joining the military alliance over concerns about arms exports and terrorism.
In a memorandum, Finland and Sweden agreed to fully co-operate with Türkiye in the fight against terror groups, including the PKK, its offshoots and the FETO.
Sweden and Finland also agreed not to impose embargoes on the Turkish defence industry.
*) Ukraine's Zelenskyy calls for Russia's expulsion from UN
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged Russia's expulsion from the United Nations.
Zelenskyy urged the UN to establish an international tribunal to investigate "the actions of Russian occupiers on Ukrainian soil" and to hold the country accountable.
"We need to act urgently to do everything to make Russia stop the killing spree," Zelenskyy said.
*) US, allies creating 'Asian NATO' – NK media
North Korea has said that joint drills by the United States, South Korea and Japan are part of a dangerous prelude to the creation of an "Asian version of NATO".
Pyongyang accused the US of having a "sinister aim" toward North Korea.
It also accused Washington of fomenting a new Cold War.
*) Inmates die in Colombia prison fire
At least 52 inmates have been killed and 26 more injured after a fire broke out during a prison riot in southwestern Colombia.
The tragedy occurred when rioting inmates set a fire, attempting to prevent police from entering their enclosure at the prison in the city of Tulua.
Authorities had initially said they were investigating whether the incident occurred as part of an escape attempt, but later said it was a riot.
And finally…
*) Hamilton, F1 condemn Nelson Piquet
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton and Formula One have condemned former world champion Nelson Piquet's racially offensive term against the British driver.
Piquet reportedly uttered the Portuguese version of the N-word against Hamilton.
Hamilton said that these archaic mindsets need to change and have no place in the sport.
Formula One backed Hamilton, stressing that discriminatory and racist type of language "has no part in society".
*) Russian missile strike hits crowded shopping mall in Ukraine
A Russian missile strike on a crowded mall in the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk has killed at least 16 people.
59 others were wounded in the strike, the head of Ukraine’s emergency services said.
Russia's Defence Ministry said it fired missiles against a weapons depot, with the subsequent explosion of ammunition triggering a fire in a nearby shopping mall.
The Group of Seven leaders had condemned the attack as a “war crime", saying Russian President Putin and those responsible would be held to account.
*) G7 vows to stand with Ukraine ‘for as long as it takes’
G7 leaders have pledged to continue supporting Ukraine "for as long as it takes" in the face of the Russian onslaught.
In a statement from the G7 summit in Germany, the group said they would continue to provide financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine.
They also urged Moscow to allow grain shipments to leave Ukraine.
*) Dozens found dead in trailer in US state of Texas
At least 46 migrants have been found dead inside a tractor-trailer in the US state of Texas.
The cause of death was indicated as suffocation.
The incident appears to be one of the most deadly recent incidents of human smuggling along the US-Mexico border.
A local fire department official said 16 people, including 12 adults and four children, were transported to the hospital.
Police said three people were detained.
*) Toxic gas explosion at Jordan’s Aqaba port
A toxic gas explosion has killed at least 10 people and injured more than 250 in Jordan's Aqaba port.
A container of 30 tonnes of toxic gas plunged from a crane on a moored vessel as an iron rope that was carrying it broke, resulting in the escape of the poisonous substance.
Officials said specialists and the civil defence were dealing with the incident.
Nearby areas were evacuated and residents told to stay indoors.
*) Tokyo faces worst June heatwave since 1875
Japan’s capital Tokyo has faced the worst heatwave for June in more than 150 years.
The city saw three successive days of temperatures topping 35C, marking the worst streak of hot weather in June since records began in 1875.
At least two people are believed to have died from heatstroke, media said, as the number of hospitalisation cases from heat stroke rose.
Authorities asked residents in the Tokyo area to conserve electricity to avoid a looming power cut.
Russia #Ukraine #G7 #texas #Smuggling #migrants #Jordan #Explosion #Tokyo #heatwave
*) Ukraine urges G7 to provide more weapons
The Ukrainian government has urged G7 leaders to provide more weapons to Kiev and impose further sanctions against Moscow.
"G7 summit must respond with more sanctions on Russia and more heavy arms for Ukraine. Russia's sick imperialism must be defeated," Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted.
The call comes as Russia steps up its offensive in Ukraine and the world's seven leading economies gather in Germany to discuss the conflict-related food and energy crises.
*) Russia ‘defaults’ on foreign debt
Russia looks set for its first sovereign default in a century as a grace period of 30 days expired on payments of 100 million dollars in interest on two bonds.
Some bondholders say they have not received overdue interest, while the Kremlin has repeatedly said there are no grounds for Russia to default.
Moscow says it is unable to pay bondholders because of sanctions, accusing the West of trying to drive it into an "artificial default".
*) G7 launches $600B project to counter China
The United States has announced a G7 project to rival China's Belt and Road Initiative.
"Together with G7 partners, we aim to mobilise $600 billion by 2027 in global infrastructure investments in poor countries,” said the White House.
The plan will target countries desperately needing everything, from roads to harbours, and that have until now often relied on the Chinese.
*) African Union calls for probe after migrants die
The African Union has called for an immediate investigation into the deaths of dozens of migrants trying to cross from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Melilla.
The AU commission chairperson reminded “all countries of their obligations under international law to treat all migrants with dignity and to prioritise their safety".
Around 2,000 migrants, many from Sudan, tried to cross the militarised border between Morocco and Spain on Friday and were met with force.
Moroccan authorities said at least 23 people died in the violence.
And finally…
*) Lockdown for Australian bees as pest detected near port
Beehives in southeast Australia have gone under lockdown as authorities race to prevent the spread of a potentially devastating parasite plague.
The Varroa Mite was detected at the Port of Newcastle, prompting authorities to throw up a strict biosecurity zone to stop the spread.
Keepers inside the 50-kilometre biosecurity zone will not be able to move hives, bees, honey or comb until further notice.
The tiny red-brown mites attack and feed on honey bees, killing entire colonies.
*) US welcomes Türkiye's efforts in Ukraine grain
The United States welcomes Türkiye's involvement in brokering an agreement to get grain out of Ukraine, John Kirby, the national security spokesman said.
Kirby said that the US is working with allies and partners to get some grain out of Ukraine, exports that have been thwarted by Russia's incursion on Ukraine.
*) Athens fuels up crisis with naval base expansion in Crete Island
Athens is ramping up its ongoing armament programme, with plans to step up the military buildup on the island of Crete and upgrade its arsenal, according to a Greek media report.
Greece will allocate about $200 million to upgrade and expand a naval base at Souda Bay, the daily Kathimerini reported.
Greek Defense Minister informed the Parliamentary Committee on Defense Affairs about the additional allocation for the naval base, the report said.
*) Tunisia's police arrest former PM Jebali over money laundering allegations
Tunisian police arrested former prime minister Hamadi Jebali, who is also a former senior member of the Ennahda party, on suspicion of money laundering, his lawyer said.
Police in the city of Sousse seized Jebali's phone and his wife's phone and took him to an unknown location, according to a statement by his family.
Jebali's arrest raises opposition concerns over human rights record since President Kais Saied seized control of executive power last year.
*) UK Tory party chairman resigns after twin by-election losses
The chairman of Britain's ruling Conservatives quit after the party lost two parliamentary by-elections.
Oliver Dowden wrote in a resignation letter to Prime Minister and Tory leader Boris Johnson that party’s supporters are distressed and disappointed by recent events, and I share their feelings.
He added, "We cannot carry on with business as usual. Somebody must take responsibility and I have concluded that, it would not be right for me to remain in office."
And finally…
*) FIFA increases squad limit to 26 players for 2022 Qatar World Cup
FIFA will allow countries to select up to 26 players for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, increasing the maximum squad size by three for the tournament.
FIFA stated, "The number of players to be included on the final list has been increased to at least 23 and a maximum of 26.”
World football's governing body said the decision to expand squads was made "given the need to retain additional flexibility due to the unique timing" of this year's competition.
*) Casualties soar as Afghanistan reels from deadliest earthquake in decades
A powerful earthquake devastated a rural, mountainous region of eastern Afghanistan, killing at least 1,150 people and injuring 1,600 more.
The magnitude 6.1 temblor hit near the Pakistan border, but quakes of that strength can cause severe damage in areas where buildings are poorly constructed.
Rescue workers continue clearing the rubble to release the injured and recover bodies.
*) Ukraine crisis sounds alarm for humanity — China
The conflict in Ukraine has “sounded an alarm for humanity,” Chinese leader Xi Jinping said, as China continues to assume a position of neutrality while backing its ally Russia.
“Countries will surely end up in security hardships if they place blind faith in their positions of strength, expand military alliances, and seek their own safety at the expense of others," Xi said.
In other comments, Xi said imposing sanctions could act as a “boomerang” and a “double-edged sword,” and that the global community would suffer from “politicising, mechanising and weaponising” global economic trends and financial flows.
*) Türkiye, Saudi Arabia stress 'new era of cooperation' in boost to ties
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman declared their determination to launch a new era of cooperation in bilateral ties, including in the political, economic, military, security and cultural spheres.
According to a joint declaration, the leaders emphasised the countries' determination to start a new era of comprehensive cooperation in many areas.
Ankara and Riyadh decided to deepen consultation and cooperation in regional issues to strengthen stability and peace, it said.
*) UN: Greece creates 'atmosphere of fear' for migrants, rights organisations
Human rights defenders in Greece are “under severe pressure” while trying to protect the refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in the country, the UN human rights body said.
“Geopolitical circumstances and a lack of support by the EU have led to questions being posed of Greece that many other States have not been asked concerning migration,”
Commenting on the difficulties faced by the human rights defenders in Greece, UN Special Rapporteur Mary Lawlor said that the government's current approach creates an “atmosphere of fear – particularly a fear of criminalisation.”
And finally…
*) Musk 'losing billions of dollars' in Berlin, Austin Tesla factories
Tesla’s new car factories in Texas and Berlin are "losing billions of dollars" as they struggle to increase production because of a shortage of batteries and China port issues.
Chief Executive Elon Musk said "Both Berlin and Austin factories are gigantic money furnaces right now.” adding, “It's really like a giant roaring sound, which is the sound of money on fire,"
Musk also said he expected Tesla would start production of its Cybertruck electric pickup trucks in mid-2023.
*) East Ukraine weathers bombardment
Russian attacks have laid down a curtain of fire across areas of eastern Ukraine where pockets of resistance are denying Moscow full military control of the region.
The governor of Ukraine’s eastern Luhansk region described the situation saying “everything that can burn is on fire.”
The Russian military currently controls about 95 percent of the Luhansk region, but Moscow has struggled for weeks to overrun it completely.
*) East Afghanistan earthquake
A magnitude 6.1 earthquake has shaken parts of densely populated Afghanistan.
The country's state-run news agency reported that at least 255 people have been killed in the east.
The quake struck about 44 kilometres from the city of Khost in eastern Afghanistan at a depth of 51 kilometres.
*) Saudi crown prince to meet President Erdogan
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is visiting Türkiye for talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to further strengthen ties between the regional powers.
Erdogan has told reporters that Crown Prince bin Salman’s visit to the capital Ankara would see discussions on taking bilateral relations to a much higher level.
Energy, economy, trade, defence cooperation and tourism are expected to be at the top of the agenda and new agreements are also expected to be signed.
Relations between Ankara and Riyadh had seen a drop in recent years due to political tensions, but both countries are now seeking to revive ties.
*) US landmark gun safety bill
US Senate negotiators on gun legislation have released a landmark gun safety bill to address mass shootings.
The 80-page bill will be encouraging state red flag laws, enhancing mental health services, and adding juvenile records to background checks on gun buyers.
The measure does not go as far as Democrats including President Joe Biden had sought.
But, if passed, it would still be the most significant action to combat gun violence to emerge from the US Congress in years.
And finally…
*) Conflicts push millions of children out of school
The number of children forced out of school or who have seen their education disrupted in conflict-torn countries has nearly tripled in six years to 222 million.
That is up from 75 million children estimated to be in the same situation in 2016, the United Nations global fund for education found in a fresh report.
A full 78.2 million of the children are estimated to be completely out of school due to often protracted conflicts and emergencies.
54 percent of them are girls, while 17 percent are children with disabilities, the report found.
*) Russian journalist auctions Nobel Peace Prize
Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov has auctioned off his Nobel Peace Prize gold medal for 103 million dollars to benefit children displaced by the conflict in Ukraine.
Muratov donated all of the proceeds from the sale of the medal to UNICEF's Humanitarian Response for Ukrainian Children Displaced by War.
The Nobel prize was snapped up by an as yet unidentified phone bidder according to Heritage Auctions, which handled the sale.
*) Russian television broadcasting in southern Ukraine
Television towers in the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson have been reconfigured to broadcast Russian television as Moscow’s offensive in Ukraine enters its 118th day.
The Russian armed forces said they had "reconfigured the last of the seven television towers to broadcast Russian television channels" for free.
In Ukraine's southern Kherson region, the Russian army has already introduced the rouble and begun distributing Russian passports as well.
*) Macron to host French opposition party leaders
French President Emmanuel Macron will host political party chiefs in a bid to break the impasse created by the failure of his coalition to win a majority in parliamentary elections.
In a rare encounter, Macron will host Marine Le Pen, his rival in presidential elections and leader of the far-right National Rally.
He will also meet with right-wing, Socialist and Communist party chiefs, while the far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon is not scheduled to do so.
The meetings are the first attempts by Macron to extract himself from a situation that risks wrecking his second-term reform plans.
*) PKK supporters hold demonstration in Sweden
A group of supporters of the PKK terror group has held a demonstration in the Swedish city of Gothenburg, calling on Sweden to impose an arms embargo on Türkiye.
Reacting to the development, Mikail Yuksel, chairman of the Party of Different Colors in Sweden, said "the Swedish government says it considers the PKK a terrorist organisation, but implements a two-faced policy."
The protest came as negotiations about Finland and Sweden's NATO bids and Türkiye's security concerns continued.
Türkiye objects to the membership bids, criticising Finland and Sweden for supporting the PKK terror group, which has been responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people across the country.
*) Biggest rail strike in 30 years brings UK to standstill
UK's biggest rail strike in three decades kicks off as tens of thousands of staff walk out in a dispute over pay and jobs.
Picket lines appeared at dawn and will be lined by some of the more than 40,000 rail workers who are due to strike on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, bringing the network to a standstill.
Unions have said the rail strikes could mark the start of a "summer of discontent", with teachers, medics, waste disposal workers and even barristers moving towards industrial action over surging prices.
*) Zelenskyy warns of Russian 'hostile activity'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is likely to intensify its offensive this week.
"Obviously, this week we should expect from Russia an intensification of its hostile activities," Zelenskyy said.
Ukraine applied to join the EU four days after Russian troops poured across its border in February.
The European Commission recommended last Friday that Ukraine receive candidate status. Leaders of the 27-nation union will consider the question at a summit this week.
*) China's oil imports from Russia soar to a record
China's crude oil imports from Russia have soared 55 percent from a year earlier to a record level in May, displacing Saudi Arabia as the top supplier.
Imports of Russian oil totalled nearly 8.42 million tonnes, data from the Chinese General Administration of Customs showed.
Russia took back the top ranking after a gap of 19 months as refiners of the world's biggest crude oil importer cashed in on discounted supplies amid sanctions on Moscow.
*) Macron’s alliance loses majority
French President Emmanuel Macron's Together alliance has lost its majority in the French parliament, winning 245 seats in the 577-member chamber in elections.
The outcome, well short of the 289 seats needed for an overall majority, severely tarnished Macron's April presidential election victory.
The setback for the French president could throw the country into political paralysis unless Macron is able to negotiate alliances with other parties.
*) Colombia elects Petro as new president
Ex-guerrilla Gustavo Petro has been elected the first ever left-wing president of Colombia, after beating millionaire businessman Rodolfo Hernandez.
With all votes counted, Petro beat Hernandez with an unexpectedly wide margin of more than 700,000 votes.
Petro has pledged to fight inequality with free university education, pension reforms and high taxes on unproductive land.
And finally…
*) Russian journalist sells Nobel Prize for Ukrainian children
Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov is set to auction off his Nobel Peace Prize medal to help children displaced by the Ukraine conflict.
Muratov said the idea of the donation “is to give the children refugees a chance for a future.”
As of early Monday morning, the highest bid was $550,000.
The purchase price is expected to spiral upward, possibly into the millions.
Muratov will donate proceeds directly to UNICEF.
*) EU to give fast-tracked opinion on Ukraine membership bid
The European Commission meets on Friday to give its fast-tracked opinion on Ukraine's EU bid, a step closer to membership for the country battling Russia's forces.
The meeting comes a day after French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italian premier Mario Draghi and Romanian President Klaus Iohannis visited Kiev.
They met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who later promised that Ukraine was ready to put in the work to become an EU member.
*) Israeli forces kill three Palestinians, injure eight others in raid
At least three Palestinians have been killed in an Israeli raid in the city of Jenin in the occupied West Bank.
Eight others were injured in the raid, the Palestinian Health Ministry said in a statement.
Eyewitnesses said Israel’s forces opened fire on a vehicle with four Palestinians. After the incident, Israeli soldiers targeted protesting Palestinians with live ammunition and tear gas grenades.
*) Covid vaccines, food, fisheries figure in WTO's deals package
The World Trade Organisation has concluded hard-won deals on fishing subsidies, food insecurity and Covid-19 vaccines in a landmark bundle of agreements.
WTO director-general Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said the trade ministers' conference had struck an "unprecedented package of deliverables" which would "make a difference".
The conference also agreed on deals on e-commerce, responding to pandemics and reforming the organisation itself.
*) Two dead, one wounded in another US shooting
A shooting at a church during a potluck dinner has left two people dead and one wounded in the US state of Alabama.
The incident took place at St Stephen's Episcopal Church in the town of Vestavia Hills and a suspect was taken in custody, the town's police department said.
The US is in the midst of a gruesome chapter of its gun violence epidemic. On May 24, a shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, killed 19 children and two teachers.
And finally…
*) Azteca Stadium, Los Angeles among 2026 World Cup venues
Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium and the Los Angeles Rams' multi-billion-dollar SoFi Stadium are among 16 venues to stage games at the 2026 World Cup.
The tournament will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It will be the first ever World Cup shared between three nations and also the first to feature 48 teams.
At a televised announcement in New York, officials confirmed 11 US cities as host venues, along with three venues in Mexico and two in Canada.
*) Biden announces $1 billion in new military aid for Ukraine
US President Joe Biden has announced a new package of arms and ammunition for Kiev after speaking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over the phone.
The package of $1 billion includes howitzers, ammunition, anti-ship missile systems and additional rockets for new artillery systems that Ukraine will soon put in the field.
Biden said "the US will stand by Ukraine as it defends its democracy" against a Russian onslaught. Zelenskyy said he was "grateful" for the new American arms package.
*) Xi assures Putin of China's support for Russian 'sovereignty, security'
Chinese President Xi Jinping has assured his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin of Beijing's support for Moscow on "sovereignty and security" during a phone call.
Xi praised the "good momentum of development" in bilateral ties since the start of the year "in the face of global turmoil and changes", state broadcaster CCTV reported.
It was the second reported call between the two leaders since Putin launched his offensive against Ukraine on February 24th.
*) Police: Amazon fisherman confesses to killing missing pair
A fisherman has confessed to killing a British journalist and an Indigenous expert in Brazil's remote Amazon, taking police to a site where human remains were recovered.
The development closes out 10 days of suspense as teams searched for the missing pair. Authorities say that more arrests would be made soon in the case.
Dom Phillips and his guide Bruno Pereira went missing June 5th in a remote part of the Amazon that is rife with crimes including illegal mining as well as drug trafficking.
*) US Fed announces biggest interest rate hike since 1994
The US Federal Reserve has announced the most aggressive interest rate increase in nearly 30 years in a battle to drive down surging inflation.
After the 0.75-percentage-point hike, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said it was "essential" to lower inflation and that the goal was to achieve that without derailing the economy.
The Fed's policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee raised the benchmark borrowing rate to a range of 1.5-1.75 percent, up from zero at the start of the year.
And finally…
*) Netflix seeks recruits for real-life 'Squid Game'
Netflix is looking for recruits to compete in a real-life "Squid Game". The worst fate for a contestant will be going home empty-handed — unlike in the original, ultra-violent show.
With the largest cast in reality TV history, 456 real players will enter the game in pursuit of a life-changing cash prize of $4.56 million, the streaming platform said.
"Squid Game: The Challenge" is looking for English-speakers from around the globe, aged at least 21 and free to travel for up to a month in early 2023.
*) Ukraine's need for more weapons major focus as defence ministers meet
Defence ministers from NATO and other parts of the world will meet in Brussels on Wednesday where they are expected to discuss weapon deliveries to Ukraine.
Ukraine seeks a significant increase in arms to help hold off Russian troops. Kiev says it needs 1,000 howitzers, 500 tanks and 1,000 drones, among other heavy weapons.
Western countries have promised NATO-standard weapons, including advanced US rockets. But deploying them is taking time.
*) UK Rwanda asylum-seeker flight cancelled after European court ruling
A first flight carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda as part of a controversial UK policy has been cancelled due to a last-minute ruling from the European Court of Human Rights.
British Home Secretary Priti Patel said she was disappointed that the legal challenge meant the plane did not take off, but vowed to pursue the heavily criticised policy.
The flight cancellation is seen as an embarrassment for the government after it insisted the Kigali-bound plane would leave no matter how many people were on board.
*) WHO to assess if monkeypox an international health emergency
The World Health Organisation will hold a meeting to determine whether to classify the global monkeypox outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern.
The emergency committee will meet on June 23 to discuss the designation, which is the highest alarm. The UN agency is also working to change the name of the disease.
The announcement comes after more than 30 scientists wrote that there was an "urgent need for a non-discriminatory and non-stigmatising nomenclature for monkeypox".
*) Ethiopia sets up committee for Tigray peace negotiations
Ethiopia's federal government has formed a committee to negotiate with forces from the rebellious northern region of Tigray.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has confirmed the key step towards peace negotiations. The committee has 10 to 15 days to hammer out details of negotiations.
The nearly two-year conflict in Ethiopia has displaced more than nine million people, plunged parts of Tigray into famine conditions and killed thousands of civilians.
And finally…
*) Emotional BTS tell fans they're taking a break to 'figure things out'
Members of K-pop supergroup BTS have announced they are taking an indefinite break from one of the world's most popular acts to focus on solo pursuits.
They have cited exhaustion and the pressures of success in an emotional video appearance.
The seven members, credited with generating billions of dollars for the South Korean economy, dropped the bombshell at a group dinner. The video was posted on YouTube.
*) Fierce fighting in Ukraine's Donbass region
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the battle for the eastern Donbass will go down as one of the most brutal in European history.
The region, comprising the provinces of Luhansk and Donetsk, is claimed by Russian separatists.
Zelenskyy said "for us, the price of this battle is very high. It is just scary," adding, "we draw the attention of our partners daily to the fact that only a sufficient number of modern artillery for Ukraine will ensure our advantage."
*) Sievierodonetsk under siege
Russian forces have laid siege to the eastern city of Sievierodonetsk, destroying the last bridges into the industrial hub.
The cities of Sievierodonetsk and Lysychansk have been targeted for weeks as the last areas in the eastern Donbass region of Luhansk still under Ukrainian control.
Ukraine's forces had been pushed back from Sievierodonetsk's centre after a weeks-long Russian offensive, said regional governor Sergei Gaidai.
*) Türkiye to start transferring gas from Black Sea in early 2023
Türkiye will start transferring 10 million cubic metres of natural gas daily from the Sakarya Gas Field in the Black Sea to the national transmission system in the first quarter of 2023, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.
First gas transmission is planned to be delivered through a 150-kilometre-long subsea pipeline that Türkiye will construct to run from the field to onshore where it will be connected to the national gas grid.
Türkiye sees energy as "the key to regional cooperation, and not an area of tension and conflict," Erdogan said.
*) UK to send first refugees to Rwanda
The British government is preparing to send a first plane carrying failed asylum seekers to Rwanda despite legal bids and protests against the controversial policy.
A chartered plane was to leave one of London's airports overnight and land in Kigali on Tuesday, campaigners said on Monday, after UK judges rejected an appeal against the deportations.
Claimants had argued that a decision on the policy should have waited until a full hearing on the legality of the policy next month.
And finally…
*) Hollywood stars seek responsible on-screen gun depictions
Hollywood stars including Amy Schumer, Julianne Moore and Mark Ruffalo have signed a letter, calling for movies and television shows to depict responsible gun ownership and to limit scenes involving children with firearms.
The open letter penned in response to recent US mass shootings in Uvalde and Buffalo, was also signed by top producers J.J. Abrams ("Lost"), Shonda Rhimes ("Bridgerton") and Lucasfilm head Kathleen Kennedy.
*) Ukrainian, Russian forces fight for 'every metre' in Sievierodonetsk
Ukrainian and Russian forces are fighting for "literally every metre" in Sievierodonetsk, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says, as fighting intensified in an eastern region where the country's top commander said the land "is covered in blood".
Sievierodonetsk and nearby Lysychansk have been targeted for weeks as the last areas in the Luhansk region still under Ukrainian control.
Russia's massed artillery in that region gave it a tenfold advantage, said Valeriy Zaluzhny, commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian military. But, "despite everything, we continue to hold positions", he said.
*) Amnesty alleges Russia killed hundreds in Kharkiv 'war crimes'
Amnesty International has accused Russia of "war crimes" in Ukraine, saying attacks on Kharkiv, many using banned cluster bombs, had killed hundreds of civilians.
The rights group said in a report on Ukraine's second biggest city: “The repeated bombardments of residential neighbourhoods in Kharkiv are indiscriminate, which killed and injured hundreds of civilians, and as such constitute war crimes."
*) US Senators announce tentative deal on gun control
A bipartisan group of US Senators has announced the outline of a deal on gun control.
The plan for legislation includes support for tougher criminal background checks for gun buyers -- but only those younger than 21 -- and a crackdown on illegal gun purchases.
Senators also want to see more funding for mental health care and school security. Calls for stricter gun control have grown after a recent string of mass shootings.
*) Macron party neck and neck with leftists in parliamentary vote
French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance appears to be slightly ahead in the first round of parliamentary elections.
The Left has been gaining on him, throwing into serious doubt whether Macron will be able to secure a majority in parliament.
If not, that would make it virtually impossible to drive through his reform agenda. And, voter abstention in this round was at an all-time high, nearly 53 percent.
And, finally…
*) Justin Bieber suffering from partial facial paralysis
Justin Bieber says a rare disorder that paralysed half of the superstar performer’s face is the reason behind his tour postponement.
The multi-Grammy winner is suffering from Ramsay Hunt syndrome, he said in video he posted on Friday on Instagram.
The syndrome causes facial paralysis and affects nerves in the face through a shingles outbreak.
*) British, Moroccan fighters captured in Ukraine sentenced to death
Pro-Moscow separatists have sentenced to death two British fighters and a Moroccan, who were captured by Russian troops while fighting for Ukraine.
A court in self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic ordered the death penalty after the three were accused of acting as mercenaries, Russian news agencies reported.
The three men will appeal the decision. Ukraine has dismissed the proceedings as "placing propaganda interests above the law".
*) US Capitol riot probe puts Trump at heart of 'attempted coup'
A House panel investigating the January 6 insurrection at the US Capitol has laid the blame firmly on Donald Trump.
It said the assault was hardly spontaneous but an “attempted coup”, and a direct result of the defeated president's effort to overturn the 2020 election.
Thursday's session and five subsequent hearings will focus on Trump's role in the multi-pronged effort to return him to the Oval Office by disenfranchising millions of voters.
*) UN elects new council members including Japan, Switzerland
UN member nations have elected five countries to join the powerful UN Security Council, which focuses on matters of international peace and security.
Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique and Switzerland have made the cut in a secret ballot vote in the 193-member General Assembly. Their terms will start on January 1.
They will join the United States, Russia, China, United Kingdom and France — the five veto-wielding permanent members of the council. As well as five others elected last year.
*) IAEA: Iran removal of monitoring cameras may scupper nuclear talks
The UN atomic energy watchdog has said that Iran is removing 27 surveillance cameras at its nuclear facilities, warning it could be a "fatal blow" to talks to revive a 2015 deal.
Talks began last year to bring the US back into that nuclear deal, after then president Donald Trump withdrew in 2018. But dialogue has been stalled since March.
An International Atomic Energy Agency resolution has recently censured Iran over lack of cooperation. Tehran has condemned the move and removed some of the surveillance cameras.
And, finally…
*) Grammys set to introduce new award categories
The 2023 Grammy Awards will feature new honours, including for the year's best video game soundtrack and Songwriter of the Year.
In a significant change, the Songwriter of the Year prize will not be open to performing or producing artists, but rather focus on working songwriters who receive little recognition.
Artists will also be able to submit their work for Best Alternative Music Performance, Best Americana Performance and Best Spoken Word Poetry Album.
*) Moscow 'ready to ensure' safe passage of ships leaving Ukrainian ports
Moscow is ready to ensure the safe passage of vessels from Ukraine, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said amid concerns over grain stuck in Ukrainian ports.
Lavrov also said Moscow would not use the situation surrounding grain shipments in and around the Black Sea to advance its military operation in Ukraine.
He was addressing a joint news conference with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara.
Cavusoglu said a United Nations plan to restart Ukrainian grain exports along a sea corridor was "reasonable" and requires more talks.
*) In a first, China and Russia defend North Korea vetoes at UN
China and Russia have defended their vetoes of a strongly backed US resolution that would have imposed tough new sanctions on North Korea.
China and Russia reiterated their opposition to more sanctions, blaming the US for tensions on the Korean peninsula while backing dialogue with North Korea.
Their defence came at a debate held under new rules requiring the UN General Assembly to examine any veto wielded in the Security Council by one of its five permanent members.
*) Algeria suspends 2002 friendship pact with Spain, bans imports
Algeria has announced it will suspend a two-decade-old friendship treaty with Spain and ban all imports from the European country.
Algeria alleged that Spain was abusing its role as an "administrating power" in Western Sahara and "contributing directly to the degradation of the situation" in the region.
Spain's government said it regretted Algeria's decision and reaffirmed its commitment to the friendship treaty.
*) IAEA adopts anti-Iran resolution
The International Atomic Energy Agency has adopted a resolution criticising Iran for refusing to provide answers about uranium traces at three undeclared sites.
The 35-member IAEA Board of Governors passed the resolution with 30 votes in favour. Russia and China voted against it, while India, Libya and Pakistan abstained.
Meanwhile, Iran turned off two surveillance devices used by UN inspectors to monitor its uranium enrichment, as talks between Tehran and world powers on a nuclear deal remain stalled.
And, finally…
*) 'Unburnable' copy of Handmaid's Tale auctioned for $130,000
A specially commissioned, unburnable edition of Margaret Atwood's “The Handmaid's Tale" has been auctioned for $130,000, Sotheby's has announced.
Proceeds will be donated to PEN America, which advocates for free expression worldwide.
The 384-page book consists mainly of Cinefoil, a specially treated aluminium product, and was announced last month at PEN's annual fundraising gala.
*) Russia draws closer to capture of Ukraine's Donbass region
Russia is drawing closer to its goal of fully capturing Ukraine's eastern industrial heartland of coal mines and factories.
The Kremlin has claimed to have taken control of 97% of one of the two provinces that make up the eastern Donbass region.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu says that Moscow’s forces hold nearly all of Luhansk province. Russia is also believed to be occupying roughly half of Donetsk province.
*) World Bank slashes 2022 global growth forecast to 2.9%
The World Bank has slashed its growth estimate for the global economy to 2.9 percent, 1.2 percentage points below the January forecast.
The world is expected to experience its sharpest deceleration following an initial recovery from global recession in more than 80 years, the bank has said in a report.
Growth recovered to 5.7 percent in 2021 following disruptions triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic. But the Russian offensive against Ukraine has caused a severe downturn.
*) Ending Israel's occupation key to halting violence: UN report
UN investigators have blamed Israel's continued occupation and discrimination against Palestinians for the endless cycles of violence in the decades-long conflict.
A team of investigators, appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council to probe "all underlying root causes" in the conflict, has pointed the finger squarely at Israel.
Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called the report "a waste of money and effort" that amounted to a witch hunt.
*) US stresses allied cooperation in face of North Korea threats
US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman has met with her counterparts from South Korea and Japan.
Sherman has emphasised the US commitment to defend its allies and trilateral security cooperation.
The top-level meeting comes amid apprehensions that North Korea is pressing ahead with preparations for its first nuclear test explosion in nearly five years.
And, finally…
*) Ice skating governing body raises minimum age to 17
Ice skaters will have to be at least 17 to take part in senior competitions after the governing body voted to raise the minimum age from 15.
The decision by the International Skating Union came months after a drugs scandal at the Beijing Winter Olympics involving then 15-year-old Russian figure skater Kamila Valieva.
A hundred countries voted to support the new measure, while only 16 opposed. Jan Dijkema, the skating union's president, called the decision historic.
*) Russia sanctions dozens of US citizens
Russia's Foreign Ministry has said that it is imposing sanctions on 61 US nationals.
It said the move was being taken "in response to the ever-expanding US sanctions against Russian political and public figures, as well as representatives of domestic business."
The list includes US officials and former and current top managers of large American companies, such as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, White House communications director Kate Bedingfield and Netflix CEO Reed Hastings.
*) UK providing Kiev with 'exactly' the right weapons
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the United Kingdom has been providing weapons Kiev needs to fight Russia.
Britain, in coordination with the United States, will supply Ukraine with multiple-launch rocket systems that can strike targets up to 80 kilometres away as part of a new UK military aid for Kiev.
*) Johnson survives no-confidence vote
Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson has narrowly survived a confidence vote instigated by members of his own party.
Johnson wins backing of 211 out of 359 Conservative lawmakers, more than simple majority needed to remain in power, but still sees a significant rebellion of 148 MPs.
The simmering discontent with Johnson is a result of his participation in illegal parties during the coronavirus lockdown. The so-called Partygate scandal led to a daming report and Johnson becoming the first serving British Prime Minister to have broken the law.
*) Iran close to making nuclear bomb
The head of the UN's nuclear watchdog says Iran is "very close" to enriching nuclear material to required levels for nuclear weapons.
He stressed the need to work with the country to combat its "very ambitious nuclear programme".
The IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told journalists in Vienna that there is evidence that suggests Iran is continuing to develop new centrifuges.
And, finally…
*) Türkiye’s Cappadocia hosts 1M tourists
Türkiye’s globally renowned Cappadocia region in the central Nevsehir province has attracted one million tourists in the first five months of this year.
A total of 1.03 million domestic and international visitors came to explore the charming touristic hub, famed for its distinctive fairy chimneys, underground cities, cave hotels, and hot air balloon rides.
While it hosted over 1.1 million visitors in the same period of 2019, the number of tourists who visited Cappadocia decreased drastically in 2020, to around 323,000, due to Covid-19 restrictions.
*) Putin warns the West
Russian President Vladimir Putin warns the West against sending long-range missile systems to Ukraine.
His warning came as Russian forces claimed to have destroyed Western military supplies in their first such air strikes on Ukraine's capital in more than a month.
Putin said all this fuss around additional deliveries of weapons to Ukraine has only one goal, that is, to drag out the armed conflict as much as possible.
*) UK to give Ukraine long-range missile systems
Britain says it will mirror the United States and send long-range missile systems to Ukraine.
The UK Ministry of Defence said London has coordinated closely with Washington over its gift of the multiple-launch rocket systems to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression.
*) Dozens dead in Nigeria attack
Nigerian officials say at least 50 people are dead, and dozens of others are injured in Nigeria's southwestern Ondo State after gunmen opened fire inside a church.
The attackers entered the church as the service got under way, firing live rounds on congregants before detonating explosives that were already planted inside.
People who managed to escape were also shot by attackers waiting outside. Authorities have accused nomadic herdsmen of carrying out the attack as a warning to the local governor.
*) Deadly fire in Bangladesh
A massive fire swept through an inland container depot in southeastern Bangladesh, killing at least 49 people and injuring more than 300, local officials say.
The fire broke out at a container facility early on Saturday at Sitakunda, 40 kilometres from the port city of Chittagong, triggering multiple container explosions after a huge blast at the site.
The death toll could rise as some of the injured are in critical condition, according to civil service officials.
And, finally…
*) Zendaya's 'Euphoria' and 'Spider-Man' win at MTV awards
Zendaya dominated the MTV Movie and TV Awards as her teen drama "Euphoria" and big-screen superhero blockbuster "Spider-Man: No Way Home" were voted best show and best movie respectively.
Zendaya won best performance in a show for "Euphoria," HBO's often bleak and hard-hitting look at modern teen life, which also won offbeat awards for "best fight".
"Spider-Man: No Way Home" - by far the biggest box office hit since the pandemic - won best movie. The film has earned almost $1.9 billion worldwide, and is the third -biggest hit for domestic theaters ever.
*) Russia's offensive in Ukraine enters 100th day as fighting rages
Ukraine has marked 100 days of Russia's offensive as fighting rages across the east of the country and Moscow's forces tighten their grip on Donbass.
The sombre milestone came on Friday as Kiev announced Moscow was now in control of a fifth of Ukrainian territory. This includes Crimea and parts of Donbass seized in 2014.
Following White House talks with US President Joe Biden, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg warned that Ukraine's allies needed to brace for a gruelling "war of attrition".
*) Biden makes emotional appeal for action on gun violence
US President Joe Biden has made a fervent appeal for lawmakers to pass tougher gun control laws, including a ban on assault weapons.
Biden made the address with 56 lighted candles arrayed along a corridor behind him, representing US states and territories suffering from gun violence.
After a spate of deadly attacks, Biden condemned the refusal of a majority of Republican senators to support tougher laws.
*) Yemen’s warring parties agree to renew two-month truce
Yemen’s warring parties have agreed to renew a nationwide truce for another two months, a rare bright spot for a country plagued by eight years of war.
The ceasefire between Yemen’s internationally recognised government and the Houthi rebels first came into effect on April 2nd.
The new announcement came just a few hours before the original truce was set to expire. UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg welcomed the move.
*) Four Kenyans shot dead in protest against dangerous wildlife
Four protesters have been shot dead during a demonstration in Kenya against threats posed by wildlife.
Protesters blocked a highway and clashed with security forces, resulting in Thursday's fatal shootings, authorities said. Police are set to investigate the incident.
Residents have repeatedly called on the Kenya Wildlife Service to find a solution to conflicts between people and animals. Farmers are upset that elephants destroy their crops and at times kill people.
*) Rolex worn by prisoner during WWII 'Great Escape' up for auction
A Rolex watch worn by a British prisoner during a daring escape from a Nazi concentration camp is going on sale in New York.
The watch was worn by RAF Flight Lieutenant Gerald Imeson on March 24, 1944, when a group of Allied soldiers undertook the escape.
Christie's said the steel watch with a black luminous dial and hands was "instrumental in the planning and execution" of their bid for freedom.
The company expects the timepiece to fetch between $200,000 and $400,000 at the June 9 auction.
*) Zelenskyy: Russia forcefully took 200,000 Ukrainian children
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has alleged that 200,000 children are among the Ukrainians who have been forcefully taken to Russia.
They include children from orphanages, children taken with their parents and those separated from their families, he said.
In a video address, Zelenskyy called it a "criminal policy". He alleged that the purpose of the move "is not just to steal people but to make those who are deported forget about Ukraine and unable to return".
*) Gunman kills four at Tulsa hospital in new US mass shooting: Police
A gunman has killed at least four people at a hospital campus in Tulsa, Oklahoma, police said. It was the latest in a string of deadly assaults by gunmen in America.
The suspect, who was armed with a rifle and a handgun, was killed in Wednesday’s attack at the St. Francis Health System hospital campus.
The incident comes close on the heels of an 18-year-old gunman killing 21 people, including 19 young children, at an elementary school in the small Texas town of Uvalde.
*) Erdogan: Türkiye, Pakistan to boost cooperation at all levels
Türkiye and Pakistan are determined to increase bilateral cooperation, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said.
He said the two sides have comprehensively discussed relations as well as regional and global issues. He was addressing a joint press conference with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Ankara.
Türkiye and Pakistan are ready to further strengthen ties "with a strategic perspective in line with the history, friendship and potential of the two countries", Erdogan added.
*) Tunisia's Saied sacks 57 judges
Tunisia's president has sacked 57 judges, accusing them of corruption and protecting terrorists in a purge of the judiciary.
In a televised address, President Kais Saied said on Wednesday he had "given opportunity after opportunity and warning after warning to the judiciary to purify itself".
Last summer, Saied dismissed the government and seized executive power in a move his critics called a coup.
And, finally…
*) Depp jubilant, Heard 'heartbroken' after split defamation verdict
A US jury has found both Johnny Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard liable for defamation, but sided more strongly with Depp following an intense trial.
The seven-member jury in Virginia awarded the 58-year-old actor $15 million in damages after finding that a 2018 article penned by Heard was defamatory to Depp.
The jury also found that Depp had made defamatory claims against the 36-year-old Heard and awarded her compensatory damages — but a much lower amount of $2 million.
*) US to send Ukraine advanced weapons
President Joe Biden has said the United States will send more advanced rocket systems to Ukraine to help it fight off Russia's forces.
A US official said the weapons being sent are High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, which have precision-guided munitions and a longer range than those currently deployed by Ukraine.
While some analysts suggest they could be a "game-changer", others say they should not be expected to suddenly turn the tables for Ukrainian forces facing heavy Russian fire in the east.
*) Cavusoglu: Lavrov to visit Türkiye for talks on Ukraine exports
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will visit Türkiye for talks on unblocking grain exports from Ukraine, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said.
Cavusoglu said Lavrov — accompanied by a military delegation — will arrive in Türkiye on June 8 "for talks on the issue of opening a security corridor" in the Black Sea.
Dozens of ships are blocked in Ukrainian ports that are surrounded by Russian forces, choking off exports of wheat, sunflower oil and other foodstuffs.
*) Australia PM Albanese gets a diverse cabinet
Australia's new ministry has been sworn into office with a record 13 women. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's cabinet also includes religious minorities and Indigenous Aboriginals.
Youth Minister Anne Aly is Australia’s first female Muslim minister, while Industry Minister Ed Husic is another Muslim face in the government.
Linda Burney became the first Aboriginal woman to hold the Indigenous Australians ministry.
*) Hurricane kills 11, leaves 20 missing in south Mexico Hurricane Agatha has caused flooding and mudslides that have killed at least 11 people and left 20 missing in Mexico's southern state of Oaxaca.
Officials said rivers overflowed their banks and swept away people in homes, while other victims were buried under mud and rocks.
Agatha was the strongest hurricane ever recorded to come ashore in May during the eastern Pacific hurricane season. It made landfall on Monday, but quickly lost power as it moved inland.
*) Nadal downs Djokovic to reach 15th French Open semi-final
Rafael Nadal has edged a classic against old rival Novak Djokovic in four sets to reach his 15th French Open semi-final.
The 13-time Roland Garros champion won the pair's 59th career meeting 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) after a four-hour-and-12-minute quarter-final.
"I'm very emotional. For me it's incredible to play here," the 35-year-old said, sealing his eighth victory in 10 French Open matches against last year's winner, Djokovic.
*) Russian forces face stiff resistance in Ukraine's Donbass
A Moscow-backed separatist leader has said that Russian forces had not advanced as rapidly as they had hoped in the battle for Sievierodonetsk.
Russia has been seeking to seize the entire Donbass region, consisting of Luhansk and Donetsk, which Moscow claims on behalf of separatist proxies.
Capturing the easternmost city of Sievierodonetsk would give Moscow effective control of Luhansk and allow the Kremlin to declare some form of victory after more than three months of the conflict.
*) EU agrees ban on 'more than 2/3' of Russian oil imports
European Union leaders have reached a compromise to impose a partial oil embargo on Russia at a summit focused on helping Ukraine with a delayed package of sanctions that was blocked by Hungary.
The watered-down embargo covers only Russian oil brought in by sea, allowing a temporary exemption for imports delivered by pipeline.
EU Council President Charles Michel said on Twitter the agreement covers more than two-thirds of oil imports from Russia, "cutting a huge source of financing for its war machine…”
*) Nepal recovers all bodies from site of plane crash
Civil aviation authorities in Nepal have said they recovered the last body from the wreckage site of a small passenger plane carrying 22 people that went missing over the weekend.
"We have found the last missing body," Deo Chandra Lal, a spokesperson for Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority said.
Lal also said preliminary investigations have found that the cause of the crash could be "adverse weather conditions."
*) Biden to meet Fed chair as inflation bites pocketbooks
President Joe Biden is set to meet with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell as soaring inflation takes a bite out of Americans' pocketbooks.
The meeting will be the first since Biden renominated Powell to lead the central bank and comes weeks after his confirmation for a second term by the Senate.
The White House said the pair would discuss the state of the US and global economy and especially inflation, described as Biden's “top economic priority."
And, finally…
*) 3,400-year-old city discovered in northern Iraq
Archaeologists have uncovered an ancient city dating back to the Mittani Empire around 3,400 years ago in the Tigris River in Duhok province, Iraq.
Bekes Birifkani, director of historical artifacts and culture in the province explained that the area was inhabited until 1985, before the Mosul Dam was built in 1990, leaving the area submerged under water.
Noting that more than 2,000 historical sites have been discovered in the city so far, Birifkani said this year's excavations also yielded important results.
*) Russia damaged 1997 Founding Act by attacking Ukraine – NATO
NATO is no longer bound by past commitments to hold back from deploying its forces in eastern Europe, the US-led alliance's deputy secretary general has said.
Moscow itself has "voided of any content" the NATO-Russia Founding Act, by attacking Ukraine and halting dialogue with the alliance, Mircea Geoana said.
"Now we have no restrictions to have robust posture in the eastern flank and to ensure that every square inch of NATO's territory is protected by Article 5 and our allies,” Geoana said.
*) European Union leaders to reiterate support for Ukraine
European Union leaders will meet to reiterate support for Ukraine as Russian forces intensified attacks to capture Sievierodonetsk, a key city in the Donbass region that Moscow has prioritised taking full control over.
Incessant shelling has left Ukrainian forces defending ruins in the city, but their refusal to withdraw is stalling a massive Russian offensive across the Donbass.
"Some 90 percent of buildings are damaged. More than two-thirds of the city's housing stock has been completely destroyed. There is no telecommunication," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a televised speech.
*) 14 bodies retrieved from Nepal plane crash site: aviation authority
Fourteen bodies have been recovered so far from the wreckage of a plane that crashed into a mountainside in Nepal with 22 people on board, the country's Civil Aviation Authority has said.
"...Search continues for the remaining. The weather is very bad but we were able to take a team to the crash site…." the Authortity’s spokesperson told reporters.
*) China looks for security pact in Pacific Island summit
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi holds talks with leaders and top officials from ten Pacific Island nations, stirring deep Western concern.
The virtual summit is expected to discuss proposals for China to increase its involvement in the security, economy and politics of the South Pacific.
Wang is in the Fijian capital Suva, where he will co-host a virtual meeting with regional foreign ministers.
And, finally...
*) Thousands celebrate Real Madrid's Champions League win in Spain
About 400,000 Real Madrid fans flocked to the Spanish capital to join the players for a celebration of their record-extending 14th European Cup triumph.
Traffic restrictions had been in place all over Madrid since the weekend as supporters started celebrations for the team's fifth Champions League crown in nine years.
The winning team paid their traditional visit to the Almudena Cathedral to offer the trophy to the Virgin of Almudena, patroness of Madrid.
*) Ukraine's Zelenskyy accuses Russia of 'genocide' in Donbass
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Moscow of carrying out a "genocide" in the eastern region of Donbass.
In a televised address, Zelenskyy said Moscow's bombardment could leave the entire region "uninhabited".
Pro-Moscow separatist groups have since 2014 controlled parts of Donbass, but Russia now appears set on taking the whole region.
*) Palestine: Israeli troops deliberately killed Al Jazeera reporter
Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was killed by a bullet fired directly at her by an Israeli sniper, Palestinian attorney general Akram Al-Khatib has said.
Al-Khatib shared the details based on the Public Prosecution’s report in Ramallah city. He said an Israeli sniper fired the bullet at Abu Akleh’s head while she was trying to escape.
Fifty-one-year-old Abu Akleh was shot and killed on May 11 while she was covering an Israeli military raid near the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank.
*) Blinken says US doesn't seek 'conflict or new Cold War' with China
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for vigorous competition with China to preserve the existing global order, but said his country doesn't seek a "new Cold War".
Blinken also said that Beijing posed "the most serious long-term challenge to the international order" despite months of US focus on Russia's assault on Ukraine.
The long-awaited speech on Thursday is being seen as the most comprehensive statement to date on China by President Joe Biden's administration.
*) Türkiye: Military ops on southern border necessary for national security
The Turkish National Security Council has said operations across Türkiye's southern borders do not target neighbours' territorial integrity, but are necessary for its national security.
In a statement after a meeting on Thursday, the council also urged countries violating international law by supporting terrorism to "put an end to this attitude".
On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country would take steps to complete the remainder of a 30-kilometre safe zone along its southern border.
And, finally...
*) 'Goodfellas' actor Ray Liotta dead at 67
Actor Ray Liotta, who starred in Martin Scorsese's gangster classic "Goodfellas," has died in the Dominican Republic at the age of 67.
Liotta, whose portrayal of mobster Henry Hill in Scorsese's crime masterpiece won universal admiration, was shooting a new film in the country when he died.
Police said emergency services were called early on Thursday morning to a hotel in Santo Domingo where they found Liotta already dead.
*) Zelenskyy rebukes West, seeks more weapons
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused the West of not doing enough to help Kiev.
In an address to the nation, Zelenskyy sought more weapons to fight off Russia's forces, calling for help without exceptions or limits.
The Ukrainian president also blasted those in the West suggesting that Ukraine might have to sacrifice some territory to end the conflict.
*) Pakistan ex-PM Khan demands new elections be set in 6 days
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has warned Pakistan's government to set new elections in the next six days or he will again march on the capital.
Khan spoke at a rally of thousands of demonstrators in Islamabad aiming to bring down the government and force early elections.
The government earlier summoned troops to guard important buildings, including the parliament and offices of the president and Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.
*) UK's Johnson blasted for 'Partygate' culture
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson presided over a cult ure of lockdown-breaking parties that featured drunken fighting among staff, according to a long-awaited inquiry.
Johnson is among dozens of people in Downing Street who have received police fines for breaching Covid regulations since 2020. "I take full responsibility for everything that took place on my watch," he told MPs in response to the report.
Johnson said he was absent from most of the events and once again rejected calls to resign.
*) Texas gunman warned he was going to shoot up school
The gunman who massacred 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Texas warned about the attack in online messages.
Eighteen-year-old Salvador Ramos first wrote that he was going to shoot his grandmother and then posted that he had shot her. In the last note, he said he was going to shoot up an e lementary school but did not specify which school, authorities said.
The bloodshed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde has renewed calls for tighter restrictions on firearms in the US. And, finally...
*) Salah staying at Liverpool next season 'for sure'
Mohamed Salah has confirmed he will see out his contract at Liverpool next season, but remains non-committal on his future at Anfield beyond 2023.
The Egyptian forward’s contract expires at the end of next season and talks over a new deal have dragged on for months.
Ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Real Madrid, Salah said his full focus is on winning the biggest prize in European football.
Salah said: "I don't want to talk about the contract. I'm staying next season for sure, let's see after that."
*) Biden says 'we have to act' after Texas school shooting
US President Joe Biden has delivered an urgent call for new restrictions on firearms after a gunman shot and killed at least 19 children at a Texas elementary school.
Biden spoke Tuesday night from the White House barely an hour after returning from a five-day trip to Asia that was bracketed by mass shootings in the US.
He pleaded for action to address gun violence after years of failure - and bitterly blamed firearm manufacturers and their supporters for blocking legislation in Washington.
*) Zelenskyy: Situation in Donbass is very difficult
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Russia is using everything at its disposal in the fight for four cities in the eastern Donbass region.
"The situation in the Donbass now is very difficult," Zelenskyy said in his address to the nation. "Practically the full might of the Russian army, whatever they have left, is being thrown at the offensive there,” he said.
Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian army is fighting back, but "it will take time and a lot more effort by our people to overcome their advantage in the amount of equipment and weapons."
*) Russian parliament okays foreign companies bill
The Russian parliament has given preliminary approval to a bill that would allow the government to appoint new management of foreign companies that pulled out of Russia after its assault on Ukraine.
The new law would transfer control over companies that left Russia not for economic reasons but because of "anti-Russian sentiment in Europe and the US.
State news agency T-A-S-S said foreign owners would still be able to resume operations in Russia or sell their shares.
*) World Bank says no new financing for Sri Lanka without policy framework
The World Bank has said it is not planning to provide any new financing to cash-strapped Sri Lanka until an adequate economic policy framework has been put in place.
In a statement, the multilateral development bank said it was repurposing resources from previously approved projects to help the Sri Lankan government pay for essential medicines, temporary cash transfers for vulnerable households and other support.
It said recent media reports had inaccurately stated that the World Bank planned to provide Sri Lanka with a new bridge loan or other loan commitments.
*) Premier League approves Chelsea takeover by Boehly group
The Premier League board has announced it had approved Todd Boehly's proposed takeover of Chelsea from Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich who was sanctioned by the British government.
A Premier League statement said on Tuesday: "The Premier League Board has today approved the proposed takeover of Chelsea Football Club by the Todd Boehly/Clearlake Consortium."
*) Russia presses Donbass offensive as fighting enters fourth month
Russian forces have stepped up their offensive on the last pocket of resistance around Luhansk in Ukraine's eastern Donbass region, as the conflict enters its fourth month.
In his nightly address on Monday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that the coming weeks will be challenging.
He added "the most difficult fighting situation today is in Donbass", which is currently the focus of Russia’s offensive.
The governor of Luhansk has said Russia has sent thousands of troops to capture his entire region.
*) Ukraine jails Russian soldier for life at 'war crimes' trial
A court in Kiev has sentenced a 21-year-old Russian soldier to life in prison for killing a Ukrainian civilian.
The court found Vadim Shishimarin, a Russian sergeant, guilty of killing 62-year-old Oleksandr Shelipov in north-east Ukraine in the first days of Moscow's offensive.
It was the first guilty conviction for what Ukrainian authorities describe as “war crimes” by Moscow's forces. Shishimarin's lawyer said he will appeal the verdict.
*) Kishida: Quad plans $50B infrastructure investment in Asia-Pacific
The United States, Japan, India and Australia plan to invest at least $50 billion into infrastructure projects in the Asia-Pacific, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida has said.
Leaders of the four countries have met in Tokyo for a summit of the Quad grouping. It looks to counter China's growing military and economic influence in the region.
After the summit, Kishida said that Russia's offensive against Ukraine is shaking the fundamental principles of the international order.
Unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force will never be tolerated anywhere, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, Kishida added.
*) Sri Lanka increases fuel prices to address economic crisis
Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has sharply hiked fuel prices to a record high, causing further pain to the country's 22 million people in its worst crisis since independence.
Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said a newly appointed "economic war cabinet" has approved the new rates to stem huge losses at the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corp.
Diesel prices have increased 230 percent and petrol has gone up 137 percent in the past six months. Economists say fuel and transport price increases will inevitably flow through to food and other goods.
*) Osaka says she may skip Wimbledon over ranking points row
Former world number one Naomi Osaka has said she may skip Wimbledon over the decision to strip the Grand Slam tournament of ranking points.
The four-time major winner said that she was "leaning more towards not playing given the current circumstances".
The ATP and WTA tours have removed ranking points from Wimbledon after the All England Club banned Russian and Belarusian players in response to the Ukraine crisis.
Osaka crashed out of the French Open in a first-round loss on Monday. This came a year after her withdrawal from the clay court Grand Slam amid mental health issues.
*) Biden launches Asia trade initiative, reinforces Japan ties
President Joe Biden has said that the US would intervene militarily if China were to invade Taiwan, warning China against what he called "flirting with danger".
In Tokyo, Biden also announced the launch of a new Asia-Pacific trading network with 13 countries, including India and Japan.
Ahead of the unveiling of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, Biden met Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
He praised Japan as a "key global leader" for joining US-led pressure on Russia over its Ukraine offensive.
*) UN: More than 100 million people forcibly displaced
Russia's assault on Ukraine and other deadly conflicts have pushed the number of forcibly displaced people around the world above 100 million for the first time ever.
UN refugee agency UNHCR said the "alarming" figure must shake the world into ending the conflicts.
Since Russia attacked Ukraine on February 24, over eight million people have been displaced within the country, while more than six million have fled across the borders.
*) First 'war crimes' verdict looms in Russia-Ukraine conflict
A panel of judges in Kiev will determine the fate of Russian Sergeant Vadim Shishimarin, who has admitted to killing a 62-year-old civilian.
The verdict expected on Monday will be the first in a case involving what Ukrainian authorities describe as Russia's war crimes.
Shishimarin's lawyer has argued for an acquittal, saying his 21-year-old client was carrying out what he perceived to be a direct order that he initially disobeyed.
Prosecutors, who have asked for a life sentence, said he was "well aware" he was executing a "criminal order".
*) Anthony Albanese sworn in as Australia's prime minister
Australia's new centre-left Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has taken office a few hours before flying out to attend an international summit in Tokyo.
The 59-year-old prime minister was sworn in at a brief ceremony in Government House, Canberra.
Albanese, who says Australia is willing to engage with the world on climate change, will join a summit on Tuesday with the US, Japanese and Indian leaders, known as the Quad.
And, finally...
*) Man City win Premier League title after epic fightback on final day
Manchester City have won the Premier League for the fourth time in five seasons after a close title race reached a dramatic conclusion.
Pep Guardiola's side were on the brink of blowing the title after falling 2-0 behind against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
But the champions staged an incredible comeback to beat their opponents 3-2. City finished with 93 points, just one ahead of Liverpool.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World.
For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Zelenskyy: Donbass completely destroyed
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russian forces have completely destroyed the eastern Donbass region.
He also accused Moscow of carrying out senseless bombardments as it intensified its military offensive.
Zelenskyy claimed Russia was trying to exert even more pressure in the Donbass, saying “it is hell there - and that is not an exaggeration."
*) US Congress approves $40B for Ukraine
US Congress has approved a 40-billion dollar aid package for Ukraine, the latest share of assistance under President Joe Biden's promise of unwavering support for Kiev.
The bundle includes 6 billion dollars earmarked for Ukraine to boost its armoured vehicle inventory and air defence system.
Nearly 9 billion dollars is set aside to help with Ukrainian "continuity of government," among other items, including humanitarian aid.
The vote was an unusually bipartisan move for harshly divided Washington.
*) NATO addressing Türkiye’s concerns over Finland, Sweden bids
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg says the alliance is in close contact with Finland, Sweden, and Türkiye as they work to address Ankara’s security concerns.
Stoltenberg said when an important ally as Türkiye raises security concerns, the only way to address the issue is to find a common ground on how to move forward.
Türkiye has voiced objections to Finland and Sweden joining NATO, criticising the Nordic countries for supporting the terror group PKK and its Syrian offshoot YPG.
*) Biden, South Korea’s Yoon to meet amid worries about North Korea
US President Joe Biden has landed in South Korea to meet the country’s new President Yoon Suk-yeol.
North Korea is expected to be at the top of the agenda, with leader Kim Jong-un abandoning a freeze on intercontinental ballistic missile testing.
Pyongyang appears poised to resume testing of nuclear bombs, perhaps while Biden is in the region
And, finally...
*) Oscar-winning composer Vangelis passes away
Vangelis, the Greek electronic composer who wrote the unforgettable Academy Award-winning score for the film “Chariots of Fire”, has died at the age of 79.
According to several Greek media outlets, Vangelis died of the coronavirus in a French hospital, where he lived part-time.
The maestro influenced the development of different musical genres, and is considered a pioneer of electronic sound.
*) Russia uses laser weapons, alleges Ukraine
Russia has begun using the prototype of a new laser weapon in Ukraine that is capable of hitting a target 5 kilometres away.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov said the prototype of a new laser weapon was tested against a drone, incinerating it within five seconds.
Ukraine claimed that the Russians started to use the laser weapons systems due to a lack of missiles.
*) Ukraine ‘shells’ village in west Russia, killing one civilian
Russia says Ukrainian forces have shelled a border village in Russia's western region at dawn, killing at least one civilian and injuring others.
Shells hit an alcohol factory in a village and several other buildings, the regional governor wrote on the messaging app Telegram.
The governor said at least one civilian was killed, others were wounded and receiving medical attention.
*) Türkiye demands Sweden, Finland shun support for terror groups
Türkiye demands Sweden and Finland shun support for terror groups after the two Nordic countries submitted applications to join NATO.
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Türkiye has legitimate security concerns that these governments have been supporting terrorist organisations.
He added that Ankara understands their security concerns, but Türkiye's security concerns should also be met.
Türkiye has criticised Finland and Sweden for supporting terror groups such as PKK and its Syrian offshoot YPG.
*) North Korea's suspected Covid-19 cases near two million
South Korea says North Korea's first confirmed Covid-19 outbreak has spreaded after April’s massive military parade in capital Pyongyang.
The report came as the country’s pandemic caseload neared 2 million.
North Korea acknowledged its first Covid-19 infections early in May.
The country’s leader Kim Jong-un has called the outbreak a “great upheaval,” berated officials for letting the virus spread and restricted the movement of people.
*) Eintracht Frankfurt beat Rangers in shootout to win Europa League final
Eintracht Frankfurt has won the Europa League final after holding their nerve to beat Rangers 5-4 in a clinical penalty shootout.
The German football team claimed their first European trophy in 42 years.
Frankfurt coach Oliver Glasner said they will celebrate the victory for the next few days.
The win also secures Frankfurt’s first appearance in the Champions League next season.
*) Finland and Sweden submit NATO membership application
Finland and Sweden have handed in their bids to join the US-led alliance NATO.
The alliance’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, "I warmly welcome the requests by Finland and Sweden to join NATO. You are our closest partners.”
The process usually takes eight to 12 months, but Türkiye has also voiced its objections to the nordic countries’ membership bids, criticising them for supporting terror groups.
In order for a country to join NATO, unanimous approval is required, which equals the approval of all 30 existing allied countries.
*) Hundreds of Ukrainians defending Azovstal plant surrender
Hundreds of Ukrainian fighters have surrendered to an uncertain fate after weeks holed up in the tunnels below Mariupol's Azovstal steel plant.
Russia's Defence Ministry said 265 fighters had surrendered, including 51 who were seriously wounded.
Ukraine says it's working to save its fighters still trapped inside or evacuated from the southern city.
However, the speaker of the lower house of Russian parliament said the Ukrainian fighters should be brought to “justice”.
*) North Korea’s Kim blasts officials for failing to deal with Covid
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has lashed out at state officials for failing to combat the coronavirus as the number of known cases crossed 1.7 million.
Chairing a meeting of the ruling party's Politburo, Kim said there was "immaturity in the state capacity for coping with the crisis", the official Korean Central News Agency said.
He also slammed the "non-positive attitude, slackness and non-activity of state leading officials", the agency reported.
*) Bashaga to run rival administration from Libya’s Sirte
Libya's eastern parliament-appointed premier Fathi Bashagha has said he will base his administration in the northern city of Sirte.
The move came after Bashagha attempted to forcibly enter the capital Tripoli to seat his government there, but was repulsed by the UN-backed government.
The attempt triggered fierce clashes between fighters on both sides, forcing Bashagha to leave the city.
Libya has had two rival administrations since March when the east-based parliament appointed Bashagha as prime minister despite UN-supported Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah.
And, finally...
*) Russian gymnast banned for pro-war 'Z' symbol
A Russian gymnast who sported the ‘Z’ symbol on a medal podium has been banned for one year from International Gymnastics Federation events.
20-year-old artistic gymnast Ivan Kuliak's singlet had the letter 'Z' prominently placed as he stood next to Ukrainian contender at a World Cup event in Doha in March.
Kuliak must also return his bronze medal and prize money of $500.
The 'Z' has been seen daubed on Russian tanks and vehicles in Ukraine and has come to symbolise support for the offensive.
*) Rescue mission under way at Azovstal as hundreds evacuated
Ukrainian authorities said a rescue mission to extract the last defenders of the Azovstal steelworks in Mariupol was under way, after hundreds of soldiers were evacuated earlier.
More than 260 fighters were evacuated through humanitarian corridors to areas under Russian and Moscow-backed separatists' control.
Ukraine's defence ministry said a further "exchange procedure" would take place later and that all necessary rescue measures are being taken by the state.
*) Erdogan: Türkiye will not greenlight NATO membership of Sweden, Finland
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that Türkiye will not greenlight NATO membership for Sweden and Finland.
He said the two countries have failed to take a clear stance against terrorism.
In a joint news conference with his Algerian counterpart in Ankara, Erdogan said "We will not say ‘yes’” to those who impose sanctions on Türkiye.
Erdogan added that Swedish and Finnish delegations should not bother coming to Ankara to convince Türkiye to approve their NATO bid.
*) Libya's rival PM Bashagha leaves Tripoli after clashes
Libya's rival prime minister Fathi Bashagha has left the capital Tripoli, hours after his attempt to enter the city triggered clashes.
Bashagha had entered Tripoli overnight accompanied by allied militias in the hope of taking over government. But his attempt was met with opposition by forces aligned with Abdulhamid Dbeibah, who was appointed through a UN-backed process last year.
*) Rashida Tlaib brings resolution in US House to recognise Palestinian Nakba
US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib has introduced a resolution to the US House of Representatives to recognise the Palestinian Nakba or catastrophe in Arabic.
Nakba refers to the invasion of Palestinian lands by the Zionist militias on 15 May 1948, which led to the expulsion of at least 750,000 people from their homes.
Tlaib added that the Palestinian people since then have been living "under oppression and violent racism and that Nakba is well-documented and continues to play out today.
*) Cannes Film Festival kicks into full swing for 75th anniversary
The Cannes Film Festival is gearing up for a bumper 75th anniversary edition with a selection of big Hollywood names, buzzy newcomers and previous Palme d'Or winners.
The festival runs from May 17 to 28, resuming its traditional calendar following two years of pandemic disruptions.
It was canceled in 2020, and last year moved to July, when it was held under strict Covid protocols.
*) Ukraine prepares for new Russian Donbass push
Ukraine is preparing for a new Russian push in the eastern Donbass region, as Kiev said its army's counterattack around Kharkiv has gained momentum.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is preparing for new attempts by Russia to attack Donbass and intensifying its movement in the south of the country.
Zelenskyy said, "the occupiers still do not want to admit that they are in a dead-end.”
*) Sweden delegation to arrive in Türkiye to discuss NATO membership
Sweden will send a delegation of diplomats to Türkiye to discuss the Scandinavian country’s decision to apply for NATO membership.
Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde confirmed that the delegation will visit Ankara very soon to evaluate the ruling Social Democratic Party's decision in favour of joining NATO.
On Russia's reaction to Sweden's application for NATO membership, Linde said Russia “violated our confluence area” and made disinformation campaigns against Swedish people.
*) Palestinians mark Nakba Day amid tension with Israel
Palestinians rallied to mark the "Nakba," or catastrophe, on Sunday with condemnation spreading over a police raid on the funeral of slain journalist Shireen Abu Akleh.
Demonstrations were held in several countries on the Nakba Day when nearly 800,000 Palestinians were driven out of their homes by then Zionist Israeli paramilitaries in 1948.
During rallies in occupied West Bank and besieged Gaza, protesters flew balloons bearing the names of cities occupied by Israel. Some protesters held pictures of journalist Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American, who was killed last week by Israeli troops
*) Ex-Somali leader Hassan Sheikh Mohamud wins presidency
Somalia has handed Hassan Sheikh Mohamud the presidency for a second time following a long-overdue election in the troubled Horn of Africa nation.
After a marathon poll involving 36 candidates, parliamentary officials counted over 165 votes in favour of former president Mohamud.
Mohamud faces a daunting task in the country of 15 million people which is suffering drought, hunger and seemingly never-ending conflict.
And, finally...
*) Box Office: 'Doctor Strange 2' rules again as 'Firestarter' flames out
"Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" is again the Number 1 movie at the North American box office.
In its second weekend of release, the latest instalment in Disney's Marvel Cinematic Universe has collected $61 million from over 4,500 theatres.
Universal's disturbing remake of Stephen King's "Firestarter" fizzled with $3.8 million from more than 2,400 screens while landing simultaneously on Peacock.
*) Russia warns of consequences after Finland announces NATO bid
The Kremlin has warned about taking retaliatory “military-technical” steps after Finland’s leaders came out in favour of applying to join NATO.
Finland has been militarily neutral for decades, but it shares a 1,300 kilometre border with Russia.
The Nordic country is expected to approve the plans to join the alliance next week and its neighbour Sweden could do the same within days.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said the alliance would welcome Finland and Sweden with open arms.
*) Kiev in talks to evacuate 38 wounded Azovstal fighters
As Ukraine continues to push back against Russia, an explosion hits the besieged Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol.
Ukraine general staff said that Russia’s military hit the embattled port city and the plant with artillery and air strikes.
Kiev earlier said it was holding "difficult" talks with Russia to secure safe passage for dozens of wounded fighters from the plant
Azovstal is the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in the devastated southern port city.
*) Slain Al Jazeera journalist to be buried in Jerusalem
The UN has said the killing of Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh may be a war crime.
And, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he would refer it to the International Criminal Court.
The Al Jazeera correspondent has been remembered in a state ceremony in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank.
Witnesses say she was shot in the head by Israeli forces while covering an army raid on a refugee camp in Jenin.
*) North Korea confirms first Covid-19 death in explosive outbreak
North Korea has reported its first Covid deaths and said 350-thousand people are infected with the virus.
The country has expanded its lockdown to try to stop the virus spreading.
Pyongyang says almost 200-thousand people are in quarantine after six people died in the past few days.
North Korea has declared the outbreak an emergency and tighter restrictions are expected to continue to be rolled out
And, finally...
*) Scientists for first time grow plants in soil from the Moon
Scientists for the first time have grown seeds in soil from the moon.
The ground-breaking experiment has given researchers hope that it may be possible to one day grow plants directly on the Moon.
However, scientists said the plants in the lunar samples grew more slowly and had stunted roots.
Still, much remains to be studied on the topic and the researchers intend to leave no stone unturned.
*) EU: Russia ‘most direct threat to world order’
Russia is the "most direct threat" to the international order because of its attacks on Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said.
Russia "is today the most direct threat to the world order with the barbaric war against Ukraine, and its worrying pact with China," von der Leyen said after talks with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
For his part, Kishida said Russia's offensive in Ukraine is not just a matter for Europe, but it shakes the core of the international order including Asia.
*) Ukraine to hold first ‘war crimes’ trial of captured Russian
As fighting continues in Ukraine, Kiev's top prosecutor has disclosed plans for the first "war crimes" trial of a captured Russian soldier.
The 21-year-old soldier is accused of gunning down a 62-year-old civilian in February, four days into Russia’s attack on the country.
While he could get up to 15 years in prison, it is not known when the trial will start.
The prosecutor general’s office added it has been investigating more than 10,700 alleged "war crimes" committed by Russian forces.
*) North Korea confirms first Covid outbreak, orders nationwide lockdown
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for thorough nationwide lockdowns as the country confirmed its first-ever case of Covid-19.
The country has detected an outbreak of a sub-variant of the highly transmissible Omicron version of the coronavirus, state news agency said.
The agency called it a "severe national emergency incident" after more than two years of keeping the pandemic at bay.
*) Calls for probe into killing of journalist Shireen Abu Akleh grow louder
The killing of Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh during an Israeli army raid in the occupied West Bank has drawn global condemnation.
The United States, United Nations, European Union and Türkiye separately called for a fair probe into the incident.
Al Jazeera said 51-year-old Palestinian-American Abu Akleh was killed "in cold blood" and demanded Israeli forces be held accountable.
But Israel's Prime Minister Naftali Bennett suggested "armed Palestinians" were "likely" responsible for the killing.
And, finally...
*) Oil giant Saudi Aramco overtakes Apple as world’s most valuable company
Oil giant Saudi Aramco has dethroned Apple as the world's most valuable company as surging oil prices drive up shares and tech stocks slump.
The Saudi Arabian national petroleum and natural gas company was valued at 2.42 trillion dollars based on the price of its shares at close of market on Wednesday.
Apple, meanwhile, has seen its share price drop over the past month and was valued at 2.37 trillion dollars when official trading ended.
*) Ukrainians make gains in east
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Russian troops are being pushed away from Ukraine's second city Kharkiv.
In his nightly address, Zelensky said "the occupiers are gradually being pushed away" from the Kharkiv region.
Ukrainian authorities in the region said four villages near Kharkiv were cleared from Russian troops.
"Fierce battles" were ongoing in the region, and that the city itself was under heavy fire, they added.
*) US lawmakers approve $40B military, economic aid for Ukraine
US lawmakers have voted to send a $40 billion aid package to Ukraine.
The defence, humanitarian and economic funding passed the House of Representatives by 368 votes to 57.
It will likely pass the Senate by the end of the week or next week.
All the dissenting votes came from the Republican ranks.
*) Israeli troops shoot dead Al Jazeera journalist in occupied West Bank
Israeli forces have shot dead an Al Jazeera reporter in the occupied West Bank.
Shireen Abu Akleh was killed by Israeli forces while reporting on a raid in the city of Jenin, Palestinian officials said.
The Palestinian Health Ministry said a second reporter, Ali Samodi, working for the Jerusalem-based Al Quds newspaper had been wounded.
Israeli army confirmed that it had conducted an operation in Jenin refugee camp, saying that reporters were hit “possibly by shoots fired by Palestinian gunmen."
The occupied West Bank city of Jenin has seen intensified army raids in recent weeks as violence in the region has surged.
*) UN urges restraint, calls for dialogue to quell deadly Sri Lanka unrest
The UN has condemned the spiralling violence in Sri Lanka, calling on authorities to prevent further unrest and pursue “meaningful dialogue.”
“I am deeply troubled by the escalation of violence in Sri Lanka after supporters of the prime minister attacked peaceful protesters in Colombo” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said.
Eight people, including a parliamentarian, have been killed and over 250 wounded in initially peaceful demonstrations as the country battles its worst economic crisis in history.
And, finally...
*) Apple pulling the plug on iPod after 20 years
Apple is discontinuing the iPod more than 20 years after the device became the face of portable music.
The company said in a blog post that the current generation of iPods will only be available as long as current supplies last.
The trend toward streaming music services has made devices designed just for carrying digital tunes around less enticing for customers.
*) Biden signs bill reviving world war 2 plan to supply arms to Ukraine
US President Joe Biden has eased the acceleration of US weapons shipments to Ukraine through a law based on a World War II measures helping US allies to defeat Nazi Germany.
Biden signed the Lend-lease Act in the Oval Office, saying the US supports Ukrainians' "fight to defend their country and their democracy against Putin's brutal war".
Acknowledging the billions of dollars already spent by the United States, Biden said "caving to aggression is even more costly".
*) Marcos Jr wins by landslide in Philippines presidential election
The son of late Philippines dictator Ferdinand Marcos has won a landslide presidential election victory as Filipino voters dismissed warnings his rise could put their fragile democracy at risk.
With more than 90 percent of an initial count concluded, Marcos Junior had secured almost 30 million votes, more than double the tally of his nearest rival, liberal candidate Leni Robredo.
Rights activists and Catholic leaders and analysts had all warned Marcos Jr could rule with an even heavier fist if he wins by a large margin.
*) Sri Lankan PM quits, lawmaker among several dead in violence
Sri Lankan Prime Minister has resigned in the worst violence since anti-government protesters took to the streets against an unprecedented economic crisis.
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa stepped down after more than 100 people were wounded when his supporters attacked protesters demanding his and the president's ouster.
Sri Lanka imposed curfew deploying thousands of troops and police to enforce it after the worst violence in weeks of protests.
*) Cleaning up 'imminent' Yemen oil spill will cost $20B
The UN has warned that it would cost $20 billion to clean up an oil spill in the event of the "imminent" break-up of an oil tanker abandoned off Yemen.
"Our recent visit to (the FSO Safer) with technical experts indicates that the vessel is imminently going to break up," the UN humanitarian coordinator for Yemen said.
Last month, the UN said it was seeking nearly $80 million for its operation.
And, finally...
*) Famed painter Hockney’s The Arrival of Spring, Normandy, 2020 in Istanbul
Legendary English painter David Hockney’s latest paintings created during the pandemic have arrived at Istanbul’s Sakip Sabanci Museum.
They are prints of paintings created on a custom-made iPad app that a programmer had developed for the artist.
A total of 116 artworks, printed on frames and filled with intricate detail now hang at Istanbul’s Sakip Sabanci Museum at Emirgan.
*) Ukraine's Zelenskyy says Russian strike at school killed about 60
Sixty civilians have died in the bombing of a school in eastern Ukraine's Lugansk region, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres is appalled by the reported attack which hit a school where many people were apparently seeking shelter from the ongoing fighting.
Guterres reiterated, in a statement, that civilians and civilian infrastructure must always be spared in times of war.
*) Putin to mark Soviet Union's WW2 victory over Nazi Germany
President Vladimir Putin will lead anniversary celebrations of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany as Russian forces fight Ukrainians in one of the deadliest European conflicts since World War Two.
Putin has in recent years used Victory Day to needle the West from a tribune in Red Square before a parade of troops, tanks, rockets and ballistic missiles.
*) Philippines votes for new president in 'most consequential election'
Filipinos have begun voting for a new president with the son of an ousted dictator and a champion of reforms and human rights as top contenders.
Monday's election pits Vice President Leni Robredo against former senator and congressman Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son and namesake of a dictator.
Opinion polls put Marcos, popularly known as "Bongbong", leading his rival by over 30 percentage points, having topped every poll this year.
*) Dozens killed in 'CODECO militia' raid on DRC gold mine
Raiders have killed at least 35 people in an attack on a gold mine in Ituri, in Democratic Republic of Congo, local sources said.
One local official of the rural Mungwalu settlement in Djugu, Ituri, said the militia carried out the attack on the artisanal mine.
29 bodies had been retrieved, while another six burnt bodies had been found buried at the site.
And, finally...
*) Türkiye inaugurates renovated Armenian church in Diyarbakir
Türkiye has officially reopened a 16th-century Armenian church that had been damaged by terrorists before restoration by the Turkish government.
Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said everyone “shares the excitement” of the renovated Armenian Church in Diyarbakir which will reopen for worship.
The historic church in Diyarbakir's Sur district was damaged by PKK terrorist attacks in 2015.
*) UK: Russia aims to take #Mariupol before V-Day
The UK believes Russia wants to take the port city of Mariupol and its vast steel mill before it marks Victory Day on Monday.
“The renewed effort by Russia to secure Azovstal and complete the capture of Mariupol is likely linked to the upcoming 9 May Victory Day commemorations”, the British Defence Ministry said in a daily intelligence briefing.
Whilst Ukrainian resistance continues in Azovstal, Russian losses will continue to build and frustrate their operational plans in southern Donbass, it added.
*) Almost 500 civilians evacuated from Mariupol: Ukraine
Staying with Ukraine, Kiev has said almost 500 civilians have been evacuated from Mariupol and its besieged Azovstal steel plant since a UN-led rescue operation began.
"We have managed to evacuate almost 500 civilians," Andriy Yermak (An-dree Year-mak), who heads Volodymyr Zelenskyy's office, said.
The United Nations had said that a new convoy would evacuate civilians from the "bleak hell" of the factory, which has become the last pocket of resistance in the southern port city.
*) UK PM Johnson loses control of traditional strongholds in local elections
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative Party has lost control of traditional strongholds in London and suffered losses elsewhere in local elections.
Early results showed that Johnson's party was ousted in Wandsworth - a low-tax Conservative stronghold since 1978.
The Tories also said they had lost control of the borough of Barnet, which has been held by the party in all but two elections since 1964.
"This is a warning shot from Conservative voters," said Daniel Thomas, the Tory leader of Barnet council.
*) Researchers find animal virus in deceased man's implanted pig heart
US researchers trying to learn what killed the first person to receive a heart transplant from a pig have discovered the organ harboured an animal virus.
University of Maryland doctors said they found an unwelcome surprise, viral DNA inside the pig heart.
They did not find signs that this bug was causing an active infection. But a major worry about animal-to-human transplants is the risk that it could introduce new kinds of infections to people.
57-year-old David Bennett died in March, two months after the groundbreaking experimental transplant.
And, finally...
*) Asian Games postponed as China battles Covid
The Asian Games due to take place in China in September have been postponed indefinitely as Beijing battles a resurgence of Covid cases.
"The Olympic Council of Asia has announced that the 19th Asian Games will be postponed," said a statement on the official Games website.
No reason was given for the delay, but China is racing to extinguish its largest outbreak of Covid-19 since the early days of the pandemic.
RussiaVDay #UKElection #OrganTransplant #PigHeart #AsianGames
*) Russia announces 3-day #ceasefire for civilian evacuations in Ukraine's Mariupol
Russia announces a three-day cease-fire for evacuation of civilians from the Azovstal steel plant in Ukraine's Black Sea port city of #Mariupol.
In a statement, Russia’s defence ministry said an evacuation corridor would be opened in the #Azovstal area "based on humanitarian principles".
The humanitarian corridor will be opened for the evacuation of civilians, including workers, women and children, from the Azovstal plant site on May 5-7, from 0500 GMT to 1500 GMT, the ministry said.
*) UN: More than 300 evacuated from Mariupol
Over 300 civilians have been evacuated from Mariupol and other areas in southern Ukraine as part of a joint UN-Red Cross operation, the United Nations said.
The evacuations came as Ukrainian forces inside Mariupol's Azovstal steel works said they were fighting "difficult bloody battles" against Russian troops.
Mariupol is one of the most battered cities in #Ukraine. A group of Ukrainian forces are still holding out at the plant with hundreds of civilians trapped inside.
*) UK votes in local elections with historic N Ireland result predicted
Polls have opened across the UK in local and regional elections that could prove historic in Northern Ireland and heap further pressure on embattled Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The contest in Belfast could see a pro-Irish nationalist party win for the first time in the troubled history of the British province.
On the other side, poor results could reignite simmering discontent within Johnson’s ruling Conservatives about his leadership after a string of recent scandals.
*) Colombia extradites 'world's most wanted' drug trafficker to US
Colombia has extradited the world's most wanted drug trafficker, Dairo Antonio Usuga David, to the United States, where he faces indictments in three federal courts
Colombian President Ivan Duque said that Usuga David is "comparable only to Pablo Escobar", referring to the late former head of the Medellin drug cartel.
The former rural warlord had stayed on the run for more than a decade by corrupting state officials and aligning himself with combattants on the left and right.
Usuga David and his drug cartel are accused of illegally bringing over 73 tonnes of cocaine into the US between 2003 and 2012.
And, finally...
*) Real Madrid beat Man City, to face Liverpool in Champions League final
Real Madrid have fought back from the brink of elimination to beat Manchester City 3-1 after extra time in an enthralling and dramatic Champions League semi-final.
City led 1-0 on the night when Riyad Mahrez scored after 73 minutes, but Real substitute Rodrygo equalised in the last minute of normal time.
Five minutes into extra time Karim Benzema converted a penalty awarded for a foul on him and Real held the shell-shocked English side at bay to reach the final.
Real, the record 13-times European champions, will play Liverpool on May 28 in Paris.
RealMadrid
*) Russia strikes Kiev during UN chief’s visit
Russian forces have pressed their offensive in south and east Ukraine after bombarding capital Kiev during a visit by the United Nations' Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
At least three people were wounded in strikes in the western part of Kiev, the first in the capital in nearly two weeks.
The strikes came after Guterres toured Bucha and other suburbs where Moscow is alleged to have committed mass atrocities.
*) UNSC ‘failed to do everything in its power to end war’: Guterres
Staying with Ukraine, UN chief Guterres admitted while visiting Kiev that the Security Council has failed to go far enough in its efforts to "prevent and end" Russian onslaught in Ukraine.
"Let me be very clear: the Security Council failed to do everything in its power to prevent and end this war,” Guterres said at a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
“This is the source of great disappointment, frustration and anger," he added.
*) Erdogan visits Saudi Arabia to start new era in ties
Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met with top Saudi leadership in his first visit to the kingdom in five years following the invitation of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
King Salman received Erdogan in the city of Jeddah and both leaders held a closed-door meeting at Al Salam Royal Palace. Erdogan also met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
"I believe we will take our relations to a level beyond what they were previously; my visit will open the doors of a new era with our friend, brother Saudi Arabia," Erdogan said.
*) South Asia wilts in heat as India rubbish mountain burns
Millions have sweltered in a dangerous early summer heatwave across India and Pakistan that has led to power and water shortages.
Several states imposed power cuts on factories as air conditioning and fan consumption skyrocketed with temperatures crossing 45 Celsius in parts of the region.
In Pakistan, temperatures are expected to be up to eight degrees higher than usual.
Scientists say the climate crisis is making heatwaves harsher and more frequent across South Asia.
And, finally...
*) Scientists discover fossil of largest raptor dinosaur in southern Argentina
A team of Argentine palaeontologists digging in Patagonia has discovered the remains of the largest dinosaur belonging to the raptor family ever recorded.
The dinosaur, a new species named Maip macrothorax, was between nine and 10-metres-long, while other "megaraptors" were no longer than nine metres.
The carnivorous dinosaur is thought to have inhabited what is now the southern tip of Argentina 70 million years ago during the Cretaceous period.
*) Putin warns West of lightning retaliation
Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that if any other country intervenes in Moscow's operations in Ukraine, Russia will launch a quick-fire military response.
Putin said: "If anyone sets out to intervene … and creates unacceptable threats for us that are strategic in nature, they should know that our response... will be lightning-fast".
"We have all the tools for this, that no one else can boast of having. We won't boast about it: we'll use them if needed," he added.
*) Germany biggest buyer of Russian energy
An independent research group has found that Germany is the biggest buyer of Russian energy in the first two months of Moscow’s assault on Ukraine.
The study published by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air calculates that Russia earned 66.5 billion dollars from fossil fuel exports since the offensive began.
Of the 66.5 billion, the researchers reckon that 9.6 billion dollars came from Germany.
Berlin says it can't comment on estimates and declines to provide any figures of its own.
*) Muslims across world observe Islam’s holy night of Laylat al Qadr Muslims around the world have observed Laylat al Qadr or the "Night of Power".
It is on this night that Muslims believe Allah sent the angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad and revealed the first verses of the holy Quran. The exact day of the night is not officially known but Muslims are told to search for Laylat al Qadr during the last odd nights of Ramadan. It is widely believed to be the 27th night of Ramadan.
*) Palestinians subjected to ‘racial segregation’ in E Jerusalem
Israel's housing policies in occupied East Jerusalem amount to "racial segregation and discrimination" against the Palestinian people and a violation of their human rights, a group of UN experts has said.
"The discriminatory zoning and planning regime in occupied East Jerusalem clearly amounts to segregation based on race, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin," the experts said in a statement.
"Racially segregated settlements have had significant and lasting consequences on the standards of living of the Palestinian people," they noted.
And, finally...
*) Fossils of giant ancient marine reptiles discovered in Alps The fossils of three giant marine reptiles, called ichthyosaurs (ik·thee·uh·saw·s), have been discovered high up in the Swiss Alps and include the largest ever tooth found for the species.
The prehistoric giants weighed up to 80 metric tonnes and grew to 20 metres before they died out 200 million years ago, making them among the largest animals to have ever lived.
The specimens in question were discovered in the late 20th century, at an altitude of 2,800 metres.
During their lifetimes the three swam in waters around the supercontinent Pangea (pan·jee·uh), but due to plate tectonics and the folding of the Alps, the fossils kept rising.
*) UN chief and Russia’s Putin agree on Ukraine evacuation UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed in principle on arranging evacuations from a besieged steel plant in the battered city of Mariupol.
The announcement came from UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric after the two met one-on-one for the first time since the Ukraine conflict began.
Dujarric said further discussions will take place between the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the Russian defence ministry.
The last Ukrainian defenders of Mariupol are hunkered down after months of Russian siege and bombardment at the Azovstal steel complex.
*) Britain says Ukraine controls majority of its airspace The UK's defence ministry has said that Ukraine retains control over the majority of its airspace, adding that Russia has failed to effectively destroy the country's air force or suppress its air defences.
"Russia has very limited air access to the north and west of Ukraine, limiting offensive actions to deep strikes with stand-off weapons," the ministry said on Twitter.
"Russian air activity is primarily focused on southern and eastern Ukraine, providing support to Russian ground forces," it added in a regular bulletin.
*) Myanmar court sentences Suu Kyi to 5 years for corruption A court in military-ruled Myanmar has convicted the country’s former leader Aung San Suu Kyi of corruption and sentenced her to five years in prison.
Suu Kyi, who was ousted by an army takeover last year, had denied the allegation that she had accepted a bribe of $600,000 in cash and gold bars.
Suu Kyi still faces a raft of other criminal charges and could be jailed for more than 100 years if convicted on all counts.
*) Israeli forces kill Palestinian in West Bank clashes Israeli forces have killed a Palestinian man and wounded three others in the occupied West Bank, according to the official Palestinian news agency Wafa.
The dead man was identified as 21-year-old Ahmad Massad, from the village of Burqin in the northern occupied West Bank. He was shot in the head by Israeli forces during arrest raids, officials told the agency. And, finally...
*) Gold prices dip as dollar rises to pandemic high Gold prices have fallen as the dollar consolidated at its highest level in more than two years and pressured demand for greenback-priced bullion.
Spot gold was down 0.4 percent at $1,897 per ounce as the dollar stood at 102.39 against a basket of rival currencies. The dollar stands at its highest level since the early days of the pandemic and is heading for its best month since 2015.
*) Ukraine fires at Russian village - Russian official
Russia says several buildings have been damaged in the Golovchino village in Russia's Belgorod province which came under fire from Ukraine.
Hours earlier, governor Vyacheslav Gladkov [Veeyacheslav Gladkov] said at least two people were hurt in an attack on another village, Zhuravlyovka.
He did not specify whether the two attacks were cases of artillery or mortar shelling or missile strikes.
*) Erdogan, Guterres reaffirm goal to end conflict in Ukraine
Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres have reaffirmed their "common objective" of ending hostilities in Ukraine in a meeting in Ankara.
The two leaders "stressed the urgent need for effective access through humanitarian corridors to evacuate civilians and deliver much needed assistance".
Guterres also expressed his support for Türkiye's "on-going diplomatic efforts in relation to the war in Ukraine."
The UN chief and Erdogan "agreed to stay in contact to follow up on ongoing initiatives."
*) Kim vows to 'strengthen' North Korea's nuclear weapons
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has vowed to strengthen the country's nuclear weapons programme during a speech at a high-profile military parade in Pyongyang.
Kim said his country would continue to take steps to strengthen and develop the nation's nuclear capabilities at the fastest pace.
Pyongyang has carried out more than a dozen weapons tests this year, including firing an intercontinental ballistic missile at full range for the first time since 2017.
*) UN: World to be hit harder by disasters
A disaster-weary globe will be hit harder in the coming years by even more catastrophes colliding in an interconnected world, the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction warned in a report.
If current trends continue, the world will go from around 400 disasters per year in 2015 to an onslaught of about 560 catastrophes a year by 2030, according to the report.
Report authors added that disasters are hitting poorer countries harder than richer ones, with recovery costs taking a bigger chunk out of the economy in nations that can’t afford it.
*) Elon Musk buys Twitter
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has bought Twitter for 44 billion dollars, shifting control of the social media platform populated by millions of users and global leaders to the world's richest person.
Musk pledged to protect free speech on the platform in a statement following the acquisition.
However, experts and rights groups say there is a risk to human rights and personal safety as Musk seeks to privatise the platform and now has access to an immense amount of data.
*) Incumbent Macron wins French election, defeating rival Le Pen
President Emmanuel Macron has comfortably defeated far-right rival Marine Le Pen in French presidential election, according to exit polls.
His supporters erupted with joy as the results appeared on a giant screen at the Champ de Mars park by the Eiffel tower.
Leaders in Berlin, Brussels, London and beyond welcomed his defeat of the nationalist, eurosceptic Le Pen.
*) US announces new military aid, diplomatic support for Ukraine
The United States has announced new military assistance for Ukraine and a renewed diplomatic push in the war-ravaged nation.
The announcement came after the US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin completed his secretive trip to Kiev.
He told Ukraine’s president and his advisers that the US would provide more than 300 million dollars in foreign military financing.
*) Tribal clashes in Sudan's restive Darfur kill nearly 170
Clashes between rival groups in Sudan's Darfur have killed at least 168 people, an aid group said, in the latest bout of deadly violence to hit the restive region.
The fighting erupted in the Krink region of West Darfur.
The violence broke out when armed tribesmen attacked villages of the non-Arab Massalit minority in retaliation for the killing of two tribesmen.
*) Erdogan: Turks and Armenians should build a future together
Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sent a letter to the head of the Armenian Patriarchate in Istanbul in which he stressed that Turks and Armenians should build their future together.
His message addressed the Turkish-Armenian community gathered at the Istanbul Armenian Patriarchate to honour the Ottoman Armenians who died in the "harsh conditions" of World War I.
Erdogan reiterated that the final years of the Ottoman Empire, which coincided with World War I, were a "very painful period" for millions of Ottoman citizens.
And, finally...
*) Box Office: 'The Bad Guys' topples 'Fantastic Beasts 3' with $24 million debut
Universal's kid-friendly caper "The Bad Guys" pulled off a heist for the ages, capturing the number one spot at the domestic box office.
The animated comedy has collected 24 million dollars from 4,009 North American theatres in its debut, enough to take the crown from "Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore."
"The Bad Guys" carries a $70 million price tag, so although the Dreamworks Animation film has topped the box office, it may have to claw its way to profitability in its theatrical run.
*) Ukraine: Russia planning sham referendum in occupied regions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of planning to "falsify" an independence referendum in the partly occupied southern regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.
In a video message, Zelenskyy urged residents of these areas not to provide any personal information, such as their passport numbers, to Russian forces.
Zelenskyy has also said the devastated port city of Mariupol "continues to resist" despite Russian claims to have captured it.
*) Korean leaders exchange friendly letters despite rising tensions
North Korea’s Kim Jong-un has thanked the South's outgoing president Moon Jae-in for his efforts to improve inter-Korean relations.
In a letter, Kim has said his "historic" summits with Moon gave the people "hope for the future", according to Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency.
Moon told Kim that together they have made a "clear step" in "changing the fate of the Korean peninsula", Seoul's presidential Blue House has confirmed.
They have agreed that ties would improve if both sides "make tireless efforts with hope", despite "the difficult situation so far".
*) UK lawmakers back probe into PM Boris Johnson's alleged lies
British lawmakers have ordered a parliamentary probe into Prime Minister Boris Johnson for allegedly lying about whether he flouted Covid-19 curbs by attending gatherings.
The move means Parliament’s Committee of Privileges will investigate whether Johnson knowingly misled Parliament.
Johnson was fined by police last week for attending his own birthday party in his office in June 2020, when people in Britain were barred from meeting up with friends and family.
He has apologised, but denies knowingly breaking the rules.
*) Deaths after Daesh-claimed blasts rock Afghan cities
At least 16 people have been killed in bomb blasts in two Afghan cities. The attacks were claimed by the Daesh terror group.
Twelve worshippers have been killed in a blast at a Shia mosque in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif. Fifty-eight people were wounded in the incident.
In a separate blast in Kunduz, at least four people have been killed and 18 others wounded.
Taliban authorities have vowed to punish those responsible for the bloodshed. Daesh has claimed both the attacks.
*) Phone video shows Mike Tyson hitting passenger on US plane
Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson has been recorded on video punching a fellow first-class passenger aboard a plane at San Francisco International Airport.
The video shows Tyson leaning over the back of his seat and repeatedly striking the unidentified man. Authorities are investigating the incident.
Tyson was initially friendly to the passenger and his friend, but reacted after the man "wouldn't stop provoking" him, the TMZ entertainment website has said.
The 55-year-old Tyson was reported to have walked off the plane before it took off for Florida.
*) Relentless Russian attacks pound Mariupol
Russian forces have tightened the noose around Ukrainian troops holed up in Mariupol’s last known stronghold.
A few thousand Ukrainian troops are believed to be inside the Azvostal steel plant. Kiev says some 2,000 civilians are also trapped there.
Ukraine says it is ready to hold talks without any conditions to save their lives. Kiev has ignored Moscow’s demands to surrender.
A desperate attempt to evacuate civilians from the besieged city failed on Wednesday as Russian forces moved to take complete control. *) Israeli warplanes strike Gaza as tensions soar
Israeli jets have struck besieged Gaza, hours after a rocket was allegedly fired from the Palestinian enclave into Israel.
It is the second such incident in 48 hours and comes at a time when tensions between Israel and Palestine are running high.
Warplanes targeted two sites in central and southern Gaza early on Thursday. No casualties have been reported.
Israel says it has responded to a rocket attack on Israel’s southern city of Sderot. Police say the rocket caused slight damage to a house.
*) Macron warns Le Pen risks 'civil war' in France
French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen has said during a televised debate that she stands by her controversial idea of banning the headscarf.
Responding to this, President Emmanuel Macron has warned that his far-right rival risks sparking a "civil war" in the European country.
Macron and Le Pen clashed bitterly over relations with Russia and the headscarf issue as they sought to sway undecided voters in Wednesday's debate.
France faces a stark choice in Sunday's presidential run-off between the centrist Macron and the far-right Le Pen.
*) UK court formally issues order to extradite Assange to US
A UK court has issued a formal order to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to the United States to face trial over the publication of secret files.
The decision now rests with Interior Minister Priti Patel, although Assange may still appeal within 14 days of any decision to approve the extradition.
Wednesday's ruling by a magistrate in central London brings the long-running legal saga in the UK courts closer to a conclusion.
Assange, 50, is wanted in the US on 18 criminal charges, including breaking a spying law. He denies any wrongdoing.
And, finally... *) Wimbledon bans Russian, Belarusian players Wimbledon has banned Russian and Belarusian players from the 2022 tournament in response to the Ukraine conflict.
The All England Lawn Tennis Club, which runs Wimbledon, has said it is acting to "limit Russia's global influence through the strongest means possible".
Tennis associations ATP and WTA have branded the move "unfair" and "very disappointing".
Russian men's world number two Daniil Medvedev and Belarusian female world number four Aryna Sabalenka are the leading players affected by the ban.
*) Ukraine gets warplanes as Mariupol officer warns facing 'last days'
The West has responded to a renewed Russian push into the Donbass region with fresh weapons for Kiev.
The Pentagon says Ukraine has recently received fighter planes to bolster its air force, declining to specify the number of aircrafts and their origins.
Meanwhile, a commander in the besieged Azov-stal power plant in Mariupol has said his marines are "maybe facing our last days, if not hours".
Moscow has issued a fresh ultimatum for Mariupol's defenders and announced the opening of a safe corridor for Ukrainian troops who agreed to lay down their arms.
*) Casualties reported after Sri Lanka police open fire at protesters
Sri Lankan police have opened fire at people protesting new fuel price increases, killing one and injuring 13 others.
It is the first death in police crackdowns during weeks of demonstrations over the country's worst economic crisis in decades.
Fifteen police personnel have also been admitted to a hospital with minor injuries after scuffles with protesters.
*) World leaders appeal for end to violence in Israel, Palestine
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged Israel and Palestine to "end the cycle of violence" after a sharp escalation in tensions between the two sides in recent days.
Türkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, too, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent events, during a phone call with his Israeli counterpart.
Tensions have been running high since the beginning of April amid repeated Israeli raids in the occupied West Bank.
And over 170 people have been injured between Friday and Sunday in and around the Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem.
*) Türkiye's forces ‘neutralise’ 26 PKK terrorists in northern Iraq
Turkish security forces have "neutralised" 26 PKK terrorists since the launch of Operation Claw-Lock in northern Iraq.
The anti-terror operation continues successfully as planned, Türkiye's Defence Ministry has said in a statement.
The operation was launched after reports that the terrorist group was planning to initiate a large-scale attack.
PKK terrorists often hide out in northern Iraq to plot cross-border attacks in Türkiye.
*) Netflix hit by subscriber loss due to inflation, conflict, competition
Netflix has said inflation, the Ukraine conflict and fierce competition have contributed to a loss of subscribers for the first time in more than a decade.
It has also predicted deeper losses ahead, marking a shift in fortune for the streaming company that thrived during the pandemic.
The company has said it lost 200,000 subscribers in its first quarter, falling well short of its forecast of adding 2.5 million subscribers.
Since it warned in January of weak subscriber growth, the company has lost nearly half of its value.
*) Zelenskyy: Russia unleashes offensive into east Ukraine
Russia has launched a major offensive into eastern Ukraine after days of preparation, authorities in Kiev have said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Russian troops have begun the battle for Donbass and vowed to defend the eastern region.
Ahead of the widely anticipated offensive, Ukrainian authorities had urged people to flee west to escape.
*) US, allies to meet over Ukraine situation
US President Joe Biden will convene a meeting of allies to discuss the Ukraine conflict, the White House has said.
An official said the meeting was part of a "regular coordination with allies and partners in support of Ukraine".
It will also cover "efforts to hold Russia accountable", the White House said.
The US and its allies have heaped pressure on Moscow via sanctions, while supporting Ukraine through military and other aid.
*) Israeli warplanes bomb site in besieged Gaza
Israeli warplanes have struck a site in the besieged Palestinian enclave of Gaza, local media and witnesses have said.
The military wing of the Palestinian organisation Hamas said it has retaliated with surface-to-air missiles.
No casualties or injuries have been reported by the Palestinian Health Ministry.
Earlier, the Israeli army announced a rocket fired from Gaza was intercepted by its aerial defence system.
*) UN: Yemen's Houthis agree to stop using child soldiers
Yemen's Houthi rebels have agreed to rid their ranks of child soldiers, who have fought by the thousands during the country's seven years of civil war, the United Nations has said.
The Houthis have signed an “action plan” to end and prevent recruiting or using children in armed conflict, killing or maiming children and attacking schools and hospitals.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the rebels committed to identifying children in their ranks and releasing them within six months.
And, finally...
*) Kenyans Chebet, Jepchirchir win Boston Marathon titles
Kenya's Evans Chebet has won the men's crown at the 126th Boston Marathon.
Reigning Olympic champion compatriot Peres Jepchirchir captured the women's title.
Chebet won in two hours, six minutes and 51 seconds, beating 2019 Boston winner Lawrence Cherono by 30 seconds.
Jepchirchir won in the final strides, taking her fifth victory in a row since 2019 in 2 hours, 21 minutes and 1 second.
*) Ukraine vows to fight till the end in Mariupol
Ukraine has vowed to fight to the end in Mariupol after a Russian ultimatum expired for remaining forces to surrender in the Black Sea port city.
Hours after Moscow's deadline passed on Sunday, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said the southern city had not fallen.
Mariupol has become a symbol of Ukraine's unexpectedly fierce resistance.
According to Ukrainian estimates, bombardment and fighting in Mariupol have killed at least 21,000 people. An estimated 100,000 people are feared trapped without food, water, heat or electricity.
*) Israel government faces new split after Al Aqsa violence
Israel's governing coalition has faced a new split as the Raam party "suspended" its membership.
The declaration came after violence in and around the Al Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem wounded 170 people over the weekend.
More than 20 people were wounded on Sunday, two days after over 150 people were injured at the site, sacred to both Muslims and Jews.
*) New clashes over anti-Muslim rally in Sweden
Three people have been wounded in Sweden as demonstrators protested plans by a far-right group to burn copies of the Quran.
They appear to have been hit by ricochets after police fired warning shots on Sunday, a police statement said. They are being treated in a hospital.
There have been similar clashes in recent days over plans by the anti-immigration and anti-Muslim group, Hard Line, to burn copies of the Muslim holy book in public.
*) Türkiye launches operation against PKK in northern Iraq
Türkiye has launched a fresh cross-border operation, using air and special forces against the PKK terror group's hideouts in northern Iraq.
The military campaign, dubbed "Claw-Lock", targets the PKK terror group's hideouts in Metina, Zap, and Avasin-Basyan areas.
Turkish pilots have hit shelters, ammunition depots and the terrorist organisation’s headquarters, according to Defence Minister Hulusi Akar.
And, finally...
*) Chelsea sink Palace to book FA Cup final clash with Liverpool
Thomas Tuchel has praised Chelsea's focus and composure as they beat Crystal Palace 2-0 to earn an FA Cup final showdown with Liverpool.
Tuchel's side had to work hard to break Palace's resistance at Wembley, but strikes by Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Mason Mount steered them to the May 14 final.
It will be Chelsea's fifth FA Cup final in the last six years as they look to make amends for losing in the showpiece against Arsenal and Leicester in 2020 and 2021.
*) Dozens of Palestinians injured after Israeli forces storm Al Aqsa Mosque
Israeli troops have fired tear gas and stun grenades at worshippers inside Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem.
The Palestinian Red Crescent emergency service said it evacuated 67 wounded people to hospitals early on Friday.
The Islamic endowment that administers the site said Israeli forces entered the compound before dawn as thousands of worshippers gathered for early morning prayers.
The endowment said one of the guards at the site was shot in the eye with a rubber bullet. *) Russia’s flagship naval vessel sinks
Moscow has admitted that the Russian naval flagship "Moskva" has sunk in the sea off Ukraine.
Kiev says it hit the ship with missiles.
But Russia says there was a fire on board after ammunition exploded. It is one of the biggest ships to be lost since the end of the Second World War. *) Zelenskyy hails Ukrainians' resolve 50 days into the conflct
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed his people for their resolve since the start of Russian attacks in February and for making “the most important decision of their life, (that is) to fight.”
In his nightly address, Zelenskyy told Ukrainians that they should be proud of having survived 50 days under Russian attacks when the “invaders gave us a maximum of five”. ) UN 'firmly opposed' to UK sending asylum seekers to Rwanda The United Nations says it stands firmly against Britain's deal to send asylum seekers who cross the channel thousands of miles away to Rwanda. UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, voices "strong opposition and concerns" about the agreement and urged London to refrain from transferring asylum seekers and irregular migrants to Rwanda for processing. The agency said people fleeing persecution should not be traded like commodities. The British government is attempting to clamp down on the record numbers of people making the perilous channel crossing from northeastern France in small inflatable boats. And, finally... ) Elon Musk launches hostile takeover bid for Twitter
Tesla chief Elon Musk launches a hostile takeover effort for Twitter, insisting the platform needs to be transformed but acknowledging his $43-billion bid may fail.
The proposal faces uncertainty on multiple fronts, including possible rejection and the challenge of assembling the cash. It could have wide-reaching impacts on the social media service if consummated.
Musk cited the promotion of freedom of speech on Twitter as a key reason for what he called his "best and final offer" and which the firm's board said it was reviewing.
*) Russian warship 'seriously damaged' in ammunition explosion
The Russian navy's Black Sea flagship has been "seriously damaged" by an ammunition explosion, Russian state media has reported.
It quoted the Russian defence ministry as saying that ammunition detonated on the Moskva missile cruiser as a result of a fire.
Earlier, the governor of Odessa said that Ukrainian forces had hit the Moskva with missile strikes.
Governor Maksym Marchenko wrote on Telegram that Neptune missiles guarding the Black Sea caused very serious damage to the Russian ship.
*) Teen among several Palestinians killed by Israeli troops in West Bank
Israeli troops have shot and killed three Palestinians, including a 14-year-old boy and a lawyer, the Palestinian Health Ministry has said.
The three killings on Wednesday, all in separate incidents, were the latest in a wave of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Israeli troops are carrying out a days-long military operation in the occupied West Bank following a spate of deadly attacks.
*) Suspect faces terror charge over New York subway shooting
A 62-year-old man accused of shooting 10 people on the New York subway has been taken into custody after a day-long manhunt.
Frank James is suspected of detonating two smoke canisters on the train, before firing into the crowd. He faces a federal terrorism charge.
James was stopped by officers on a Manhattan street and arrested without incident, authorities say.
*) Sri Lanka seeks donations from citizens abroad, offers talks to protesters
Sri Lankan authorities have urged its citizens overseas to send home money to help pay for desperately needed food and fuel.
The Prime Minister's office has separately offered talks with protesters calling for the government's ouster over an unprecedented economic crisis.
A foreign currency shortage is stalling imports of fuel and medicines in the island nation and bringing hours of power cuts a day.
And, finally...
*) Liverpool, Manchester City reach Champions League semis
Liverpool have drawn 3-3 with Benfica in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and reached the semis with a 6-4 aggregate win.
Another English team, Manchester City, too, have entered the semis 1-0 on aggregate. They produced a disciplined performance to secure a 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid in the second leg.
City will take on Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid, while Liverpool will play against another Spanish team, Villarreal, in the semi-finals.
*) Biden accuses Putin's forces of 'genocide' in Ukraine US President Joe Biden has for the first time accused Vladimir Putin's forces of committing “genocide” in Ukraine.
Biden has also said that Putin "is just trying to wipe out the idea of even being able to be a Ukrainian".
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy — who has repeatedly accused Moscow of attempted "genocide" — welcomed Biden's remark.
Biden had previously described Russian President Putin as a "war criminal", but stopped short of using the term "genocide". Moscow has repeatedly denied targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure.
*) Putin vows offensive will continue as Russian troops move east Russia has vowed to continue its offensive as the Ukraine conflict nears its seventh week.
President Vladimir Putin has insisted that the campaign is going as planned despite a major withdrawal and significant losses.
He has said that Moscow's military operation aims to protect people in parts of eastern Ukraine and “ensure Russia’s own security”.
Thwarted in their push toward the capital, Kiev, Russian troops have focused on the eastern region of Donbass, where they are feared to be readying a massive onslaught.
*) Manhunt after 10 shot in Brooklyn subway attack A massive manhunt is under way in New York for a man who shot 10 people on a packed subway train.
Police say the suspect donned a gas mask before setting off two smoke bombs and opening fire on terrified commuters.
Thirteen others were injured as they tried to get out of the station or suffered smoke inhalation.
None of the injuries are considered life-threatening.
Police say the incident in Brooklyn is not being investigated as an act of terrorism at this stage.
) UK's Johnson fined over lockdown-busting party UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered a "full apology" after being fined for breaching Covid-19 lockdown laws in the so-called "Partygate" scandal. Johnson has said in televised remarks that he has paid the fine. Johnson's office has said his fine was for attending a surprise birthday gathering in his honour on the afternoon of June 19, 2020 in the Cabinet Room at Number 10. And, finally... ) Universal Music to manage Elvis Presley song catalog Universal Music is set to add the song catalog of the "King of Rock 'n' Roll", Elvis Presley, under a publishing deal with Authentic Brands Group.
Universal Music Publishing Group has said it will approve and collect revenue when Elvis' songs are used in media, films or television.
Financial terms of the deal have not been not disclosed.
The deal comes ahead of the June release of director Baz Luhrmann's drama "Elvis", a biopic of the "Heartbreak Hotel" singer, starring Tom Hanks and Austin Butler.
*) Russia aims to take Mariupol as part of eastern Ukraine onslaught
Russian troops are planning to take control of Mariupol as part of an anticipated onslaught across eastern Ukraine.
But the Ukrainian army has insisted that "the defence of Mariupol continues".
In an address, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a fresh plea to his allies for more weapons to boost the defence of the besieged city.
He said: “we are not getting as much as we need to end this war sooner.”
*) UN: Ukraine children, women need more protection
Top officials at the United Nations have called for a probe into violence against women and the protection of children in the Ukraine conflict.
Sima Bahous, director of the UN women's agency, told a meeting of the Security Council in New York that the organisation is hearing of increasing rape and sexual violence incidients.
She said the “allegations must be independently investigated to ensure justice and accountability”.
It is not clear if the Security Council, on which Russia is a veto-wielding permanent member, would agree to any investigation.
*) Shehbaz Sharif elected Pakistan's new prime minister
Pakistan’s parliament has elected Shehbaz Sharif the country’s new prime minister after the ouster of Imran Khan.
Sharif was elected with 174 votes in his favour after more than 100 lawmakers from Khan's party walked out of the National Assembly in protest.
Sharif, the brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, was the only contender.
*) US monitoring rise in rights abuses in India
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the United States is monitoring what he described as a rise in human rights abuses in India by some officials.
He made the remark in a joint press briefing with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austinand India’s foreign minister and defence ministers.
It came days after US Representative Ilhan Omar questioned the alleged reluctance of the US to criticise Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government on human rights.
And, finally...
*) Cobain's guitar in Nirvana's 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' video to be auctioned
The guitar Kurt Cobain rocked out with in Nirvana’s "Smells Like Teen Spirit" music video is expected to sell for up to $800,000.
The 1969 blue Fender is arguably one of the most famous in rock, said Martin Nolan, executive director of Julien’s Auctions.
The guitar will come to the auction block next month, Nolan said, calling it “one of Kurt Cobain's favourite guitars of all time.”
*) Macron, Le Pen head for cliffhanger French election runoff
French leader Emmanuel Macron and challenger Marine Le Pen have qualified for what promises to be a tightly fought presidential election runoff on April 24.
Macron beat his far-right rival by a larger than expected margin, securing 27.41 percent of the votes counted so far, compared to Le Pen’s 24.9 percent.
Local polls predict a very tight runoff, with 51 percent for Macron and 49 percent for Le Pen.
*) New ‘Russia offensive’ on Ukraine coming
Russian forces will launch an offensive not only on the port of Mariupol, but also on Kiev and other Ukrainian cities, says the head of Russia's republic of Chechnya.
Meanwhile Ukraine has accused Moscow of “war crimes” after discovering a trail of more than 1,220 bodies outside Kiev in towns where the Russian army has retreated.
Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova said 5,600 cases have been opened into the alleged crimes committed by Russian forces since the start of attacks on February 24th.
*) Tens of thousands hit Pakistani streets to protest Imran Khan's ouster
Tens of thousands of protesters have rallied across Pakistan in support of Imran Khan, who was ousted in a parliamentary no-trust vote as prime minister.
Khan's supporters marched in cities across Pakistan, waving large party flags and vowing support. Hundreds of his supporters also held protests in the UK, Australia and the UAE.
Khan's successor is to be elected and sworn in by Parliament on Monday, with Shahbaz Sharif as the leading contender.
*) Several Palestinians killed, wounded as Israeli raids continue in Jenin Gun battles have rocked the occupied West Bank’s Jenin area for the second day.
At least 10 Palestinians were wounded and more than 20 arrested by Israeli forces, who shot dead three others elsewhere, Palestinian officials say.
The district of Jenin is home to a gunman who launched two recent deadly attacks in Tel Aviv, Israeli authorities say, demanding that his father Fathi Hazem turn himself in.
*) Elon Musk no longer joining Twitter board
Billionaire Elon Musk has decided not to join Twitter’s board.
Musk, who disclosed a 9.2-percent stake in Twitter, was offered a board seat and his appointment was to become effective on Saturday.
But the Tesla chief said “that same morning that he will no longer be joining", Twitter’s Chief Executive Parag Agrawal said in a tweet.
*) Russia suspended from UN rights council over Ukraine
The United Nations has suspended Russia from the Human Rights Council.
Of the 193 members of the General Assembly, 93 voted in favour of suspension, while 24 voted against and 58 abstained.
Moscow has rejected its suspension as "illegal and politically motivated".
The diplomatic rebuke comes after horrific images of death and destruction emerged from towns such as Bucha and Mariupol.
*) European Union approves Russia coal embargo
The European Union has approved an embargo on Russian coal and the closing of the bloc's ports to Russian vessels in the fifth round of sanctions.
It is the first time the Europeans have targeted the Russian energy sector, on which they are heavily dependent. The embargo will come into force at the beginning of August.
The package also includes a 10-billion euro ban on exports to Russia, including high-tech goods, and the freezing of several Russian banks' assets.
*) Pakistan court orders no-confidence vote against Imran Khan
Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ruled that the Deputy Speaker's move to block a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was unconstitutional.
The top court has declared Khan's move to dissolve parliament and call early elections illegal.
Khan will now face a no-confidence vote by lawmakers — the vote that he had tried to sidestep. The national assembly will likely convene to vote on Saturday.
*) Jackson the first Black woman to serve on US Supreme Court
Ketanji Brown Jackson has been confirmed by the Senate as the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court in a milestone for the United States.
President Joe Biden has called it a "historic moment".
The 51-year-old's appointment means white men will not be the majority on the nation's high court for the first time in 233 years.
And, finally...
*) Maradona's daughter claims wrong jersey is up for auction
Diego Maradona's daughter claims that the jersey expected to fetch several million dollars at auction is not the one her late father wore when he scored the "Hand of God" goal against England.
Dalma Maradona says the Argentina shirt due to go under the hammer this month was actually the one worn by her father during the goalless first half of the 1986 World Cup quarter-final.
Auctioneers Sotheby's has refuted the claims.
*) West ramps up sanctions against Russia
The United States and Britain have announced new sanctions against Russia after international outcry over human rights abuses in Ukraine.
The White House has unveiled measures targeting Russia's top banks and two daughters of President Vladimir Putin. It has also banned Americans from investing in Russia.
Britain has sanctioned two banks and has vowed to eliminate all Russian oil and gas imports by year-end.
*) UN to vote on suspending Russia from rights council
The 193-member United Nations General Assembly will vote on Thursday on a US push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council.
The draft resolution expresses "grave concern at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine," particularly at reports of rights abuses by Russia.
A two-thirds majority of voting members can suspend a country from the 47-member council.
*) Israel: Bennett's coalition loses majority after MP quits
A key member of Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's Yamina party has said she will quit his coalition government.
Idit Silman's announcement has left Bennett's coalition with 60 seats — the same as the opposition.
"Sadly, I cannot take part in harming the Jewish identity of Israel," she has said.
Former prime minister and Likud chairman Benjamin Netanyahu has welcomed Silman's move.
*) Al Qaeda leader dispels rumours of his death via video message
A rare video has appeared of Al Qaeda's leader praising an Indian Muslim woman who in February defied a ban on wearing hijab.
Rumours of Ayman al Zawahiri's death have persistently circulated, but the video reveals the first proof in months that he is alive.
In the video released and translated by the SITE Intelligence Group, the reclusive Al Qaeda chief praises Muskan Khan, who defied a ban on the wearing of the hijab in schools in India’s southwestern state of Karnataka.
And, finally...
*) Ed Sheeran wins court battle in 'Shape of You' copyright dispute
British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has won his copyright trial at London's High Court.
A judge has ruled that his hit song "Shape of You" did not lift musical phrases from another track, "Oh Why".
"Shape of You," released in 2017, remains the most-streamed song ever on Spotify, with more than three billion streams.
*) Zelenskyy urges UNSC to fix accountability
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has told the 15-member United Nations Security Council that "accountability must be inevitable" for Russia.
During an address, he accused Moscow's troops of committing what he described as "the most terrible war crimes" since World War Two.
Zelenskyy questioned the value of the Security Council, which has been unable to take any action over Russia's attacks because Moscow has a veto power.
Zelenskyy also showed footage of dead bodies — including children — he said were victims of Russian atrocities. Russia's ambassador rejected the claims.
*) US, allies prepare new Russia sanctions
The United States, in coordination with the EU and Group of 7 nations, will roll out new sanctions against Russia in response to alleged atrocities.
The measures would include a ban on all new investment in Russia, according to a US official.
There would be increased sanctions on financial institutions and state-owned enterprises in Russia, and sanctions on Russian government officials and their family members.
*) Sri Lankan president revokes emergency amid protests
Sri Lanka's president has revoked a state of emergency after huge protests demanded his resignation over the country's economic crisis.
The decree said Gotabaya Rajapaksa revoked orders that had given him sweeping authority to maintain public order, including authorising detentions and seizing property.
Rajapaksa had invited all parties to join a unity government after the Cabinet resigned on Sunday night. But the main opposition party rejected the proposal.
*) US approves $95M sale of missile defence support to Taiwan
The US has announced it has approved the sale of up to $95 million worth of training and equipment to support Taiwan's Patriot missile defence system.
The Pentagon said Taiwan will use the proposed training and equipment as a "deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen homeland defence".
Taiwan's foreign ministry said the deal would help protect against Beijing's "continuing military expansion and provocation".
And, finally...
*) Twitter to test longed-for edit button
Twitter has announced it will soon start experimenting with an edit button, but only on its monthly subscription service at first.
The inability to tweak tweets after firing them off has been a key complaint among users.
Word that the company would start testing an edit feature came after newly named board member Elon Musk conducted a poll.
In a tweet, Musk asked if people wanted an edit button. Nearly 4.4 million votes were cast, some 73 percent of them saying "yes".
*) Zelenskyy to address UNSC
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will address the UN Security Council for the first time at a meeting that is certain to focus on what appear to be deliberate killings allegedly by the Russian forces in the town of Bucha on the outskirts of the capital Kiev.
The discovery after the withdrawal of Russian troops has sparked global outrage and vehement denials from the Russian government.
The United Kingdom holds the council presidency this month and announced that the Ukrainian leader will speak at the open meeting.
*) Biden calls for war crimes trial against Putin
US President Joe Biden has called for war crimes trial against Russia President Vladimir Putin and said he will seek more sanctions after reported atrocities in Ukraine.
“You saw what happened in Bucha,” Biden said. He added that Putin “is a war criminal”.
Biden’s comments to reporters came after Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Bucha.
Kremlin has categorically denied the allegations.
*) UN urges action to avoid climate catastrophe
A panel of scientists assembled by the UN says it's now or never to limit the worst impacts of global heating. The panel says there must be drastic and immediate cuts in carbon dioxide emissions within three years. It's called for drastic cuts to fossil fuel use and meat consumption.
The report also said planting and maintaining forests will help curb the crisis.
The bad news is that even by following the plan, temperatures are still expected to rise by 3.2 degrees celsius this century, more than double the target set in the Paris Climate Agreement.
*) Dozens still missing in Nigeria
The Nigerian Railway Corporation says it still can't account for 168 people who are missing after an attack on a train that killed eight people and wounded several others last week.
Suspected bandits blew up the track on the Abuja-Kaduna route in Nigeria's northwest.
They then opened fire on the train. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. But kidnappings for ransom have become common in Nigeria.
And, finally...
*) Musk becomes largest shareholder in Twitter
The world's richest man has spent almost 3 billion dollars of his fortune to become the largest shareholder in Twitter.
Elon Musk himself has more than 80 million followers on the social media platform, and in response to the news of his investment, many have been asking him what his plans are.
Nobody knows what Musk's plans are because in response to all the questions and congratulations, his only reply has been, 'Oh, hi, lol'.
*) Ukraine accuses Russia of ‘genocide’
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of "genocide" as disturbing images of mass graves in Bucha emerge.
On Sunday, the bodies of at least 410 civilians were recovered in the city of Bucha near the Ukrainian capital Kiev after the withdrawal of Russian forces.
The UN calls for an independent investigation. However, Russia's defence ministry, in a Twitter post, says photos and video footage from Bucha are 'another hoax' and a 'staged provocation' by Kiev for western media.
*) Ukraine: Over 2,600 civilians evacuated
A total of 2,694 Ukrainian civilians have been evacuated from war zones to safe areas through humanitarian corridors, the country’s deputy prime minister says.
Irina Vereshchuk said on Telegram that in the last 24 hours, 469 Mariupol residents traveled with their vehicles through humanitarian corridors from Mariupol and Berdyansk to Zaporizhzhia.
In addition, a bus convoy carrying more than 350 people from Mariupol and Berdyansk that passed through Russian army checkpoints have reached Zaporizhia.
She reported that 1,467 civilians from the towns of Lisichansk, Severodonetsk, Rubizhne and Kreminna in the Luhansk region were taken to a safe zone and 408 civilians who left Berdyansk on 10 buses reached the zone.
*) Pakistan heads to polls
Pakistan's President Arif Alvi has approved the dissolution of the country's National Assembly, paving the way for new general elections in the country within 90 days.
The move came after the deputy speaker of the parliament blocked a no-confidence vote Sunday meant to remove Prime Minister Imran Khan from office.
Opposition lawmakers have challenged the rejection of the vote in the Supreme Court, calling it a "blatant violation" of the constitution.
*) Sri Lankan cabinet resigns All of Sri Lanka's cabinet ministers have resigned over the government's handling of a severe economic crisis.
The prime minister and president, who are brothers, remain in office.
The island is facing its worst financial turmoil since its independence from Britain in 1948.
There have been days of violent protests over food and medicine shortages.
And, finally...
*) Jon Batiste tops Grammys
Olivia Rodrigo made an impressive Grammy debut, Silk Sonic claimed two major awards and Jon Batiste had the most stunning victory of the night winning the top prize at Sunday’s Grammy Awards.
Batiste won five Grammys Sunday, including album of the year for “We Are”, pulling off an upset in a loaded category filled with tough competition from Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift and the combined talents of Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga.
After his win, the multi-genre performer honored the artists he beat, telling the audience that “the creative arts are subjective.”
*) Ukraine president warns Russian forces regrouping to attack south
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is preparing "powerful strikes" in the country's south, including besieged Mariupol.
In peace talks, Russia has said it will scale back attacks on the capital Kiev and the city of Chernihiv.
But Ukrainian and Western officials dismiss the pledge, saying Moscow's troops are regrouping.
"This is part of their tactics," Zelenskyy has said. He has warned that the situation in the country's south is "very difficult".
*) Ukraine: Russian forces block buses leaving Mariupol
Ukraine has accused Russian forces of blocking a convoy of 45 buses attempting to evacuate people trapped in Mariupol.
Only 631 people were able to get out of the city in private cars, according to Kiev.
Russian forces have also seized 14 tonnes of food and medical supplies in a dozen buses, Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk has said.
The humanitarian operation was initiated after the Russian military agreed to a limited ceasefire in the area.
*) Pakistan's Imran Khan accuses US of conspiracy
Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the United States of meddling in Pakistan's politics.
Washington has conspired with the Pakistani opposition to oust him, according to Khan.
Washington denies the charge. State Department spokesperson Ned Price has said there is "no truth" to the allegations.
Khan is fighting for his political life and faces a no-confidence motion in parliament.
*) Security forces deployed in Colombo after night of violence Security forces have been deployed in Sri Lanka's capital after protesters tried to storm the president's house to protest a deepening economic crisis.
Police in Colombo have said they arrested 45 people after the unrest, in which one man was critically injured.
Hundreds marched on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's house on Thursday night, demanding his resignation.
The South Asian nation of 22 million people is facing widespread shortages of essential goods, sharp price rises and long power cuts.
And, finally...
*) Police were 'ready to arrest' Smith after Oscar slap
Police were ready to arrest Will Smith after he slapped comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars, the show's producer has said.
Police said they were prepared to arrest Smith and told Rock he could press charges, Will Packer has told ABC Television.
In his first public comments on the incident, Packer has added that Rock was dismissive of those options and said he was fine.
Packer’s remarks echoed a Los Angeles police spokesperson who too had said Rock declined to file a report.
*) Ukraine, Russia talks resume on Friday by video
Russia and Ukraine will resume their peace talks online on April 1, a senior Ukrainian official has said.
Ukrainian negotiator David Arakhamia said in an online post that Kiev proposed the leaders of the two countries should meet, but Russia replied that more work needed to be done on a draft treaty.
After talks in Istanbul on Tuesday, a Russian negotiator said Moscow would "radically" scale back its attacks around the capital Kiev and the northern city of Chernihiv.
But doubts deepened after Kiev said on Wednesday Moscow's forces continued bombarding areas around Kiev and Chernihiv.
*) Ukraine's Zelenskyy dismisses Russian claims of scaleback
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has dismissed Russia's vows to de-escalate fighting.
"We don't believe anyone, not a single beautiful phrase," Zelenskyy said in a video address to the nation. He added that his forces will fight for every metre of Ukraine's territory.
He also said Russian troops were regrouping to strike the eastern Donbass region.
Separately, Zelenskyy and US President Joe Biden discussed Western efforts to support the Ukrainian military.
*) Ally ditches Pakistan PM Imran Khan ahead of parliament vote
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's future looks increasingly in doubt.
A main ally of Khan quit his ruling coalition on Wednesday and joined forces with the opposition seeking to oust him. The move by the Muttahida Qaumi Movement robbed Khan of his majority in parliament as he faces a looming no-confidence vote.
Khan's aides said he would not back down or resign.
"He will not resign. He will fight until the last ball," Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said.
*) Iraq fails to elect new president as political impasse continues Iraqi lawmakers have failed for a third time to elect a new president for lack of a quorum.
Only 178 out of 329 lawmakers were present in parliament on Wednesday, far short of the two-thirds quorum required for the vote.
The continued failure to select a president after last year's elections reflects a deep schism between the country's political groupings.
It is the task of the president to formally name a prime minister, who must be backed by an absolute majority in parliament.
Iraq's federal court has given lawmakers until April 6 to choose a new president.
And, finally...
*) Bruce Willis steps away from acting due to illness
"Die Hard" franchise star Bruce Willis will retire from his acting career after being diagnosed with aphasia.
Aphasia is a condition affecting an individual's ability to speak, write and effectively communicate with others.
Willis has appeared in about 100 films across his four-decade career, winning acclaim for roles in "Pulp Fiction" and "The Sixth Sense".
Willis has won one Golden Globe Award and two Emmys.
*) Türkiye sees ‘most meaningful progress’ in Russia-Ukraine talks
The first stage of the Istanbul talks between Kiev and Moscow has seen the "most meaningful progress since the start of negotiations", Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said.
Cavusoglu said he was pleased to see increasing "rapprochement" at "every stage".
Negotiators from both sides said enough progress had been made at the fresh round of talks on Tuesday.
Moscow's negotiators said Russia would "radically" reduce its military activity in northern Ukraine, including near the capital Kiev.
*) Ukraine official: Russia is being demilitarised
Ukraine's UN Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya has told the UN Security Council that the “demilitarisation of Russia is well under way”.
Kyslytsya said Russia has lost more than 17,000 military personnel, over 1,700 armoured vehicles and almost 600 tanks.
Russia has also lost 300 artillery systems, 127 planes and 129 helicopters, almost 100 rocket launcher systems, 54 air defence systems and seven ships, he added.
That is “an unprecedented blow to Moscow, where the numbers of Soviet losses in Afghanistan pale in comparison”, Kyslytsya said.
*) Saudi-led coalition declares Ramadan ceasefire in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition backing the Yemeni government against Houthi rebels has announced a ceasefire from Wednesday morning.
The move is seen as an attempt at creating a fertile environment for political talks and to jumpstart peace efforts during the holy Muslim month of Ramadan.
But the rebels have shunned a meeting in Riyadh that is hosted by the Gulf Cooperation Council and involves the Yemeni government, as well as the US and the UN envoys to Yemen.
Other unilateral ceasefires announced by the coalition over the past two years have swiftly collapsed.
*) Deaths in mass shooting spree in central Israel A gunman on a motorcycle has shot dead at least five people in central Israel. The shooter was killed by police.
Residents of Bnei Brak town and the neighbouring Ramat Gan town reported late on Tuesday that a man had driven around and opened fire at passers-by.
Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said the country was "facing a wave of murderous" terrorism. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also condemned the killings of the Israelis.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility.
And, finally...
*) Messi signs multi-million dollar deal with crypto fan token firm Socios
Lionel Messi has signed an agreement worth more than $20 million to promote digital fan token company Socios.com.
Messi becomes the latest global sports personality to enter the crypto world following NFL quarterback Tom Brady and NBA star LeBron James.
Socios said in a news release that Argentina superstar Messi will be involved in a publicity and promotion campaign for Socios in the build-up to the football World Cup in Qatar, which starts in November.
The 'ambassador' deal for Messi does not include crypto payments and is a three-year agreement, the source said.
*) Russia, Ukraine peace talks to start in Istanbul
Ukrainian and Russian delegations are in Istanbul for a new round of peace talks, set to start later today.
Previous rounds of negotiations in Belarus produced little progress in early days of the conflict.
Ukraine says it will not give up land to Russia, but Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated he is willing to consider making Ukraine a neutral country if such a move is approved by referendum. It would end Kiev's NATO aspirations.
*) Russia to restrict entry of citizens from unfriendly nations
Russia says it's preparing measures to restrict entry for citizens of 'unfriendly' countries, which includes the US, EU states and the UK.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says the decision is in retaliation for the actions of a number of foreign states. Lavrov says the move will target countries that have overstepped the rights of Russian citizens.
Many western nations have placed unprecedented sanctions on Moscow following last month's attack on Ukraine.
*) Kazakhstan ready to companies leaving Russia
Kazakhstan says it is ready to welcome companies with good reputations that have left Russia because of its attack on Ukraine.
Kazakh deputy foreign minister, Roman Vassilenko, says his country does not want to be stuck on the wrong side of a new Iron Curtain and encouraged companies that pulled from Russia to move their production to Kazakhstan.
The Central Asian country has been trying to find a balance between its stance against the incursion and its ties with Russia. Many Western companies withdrew from Russia hoping to pressure Moscow to walk back its attack.
*) No confidence motion against Pakistan’s Imran Khan submitted Pakistan's parliament has taken up a no-confidence motion by opposition lawmakers to try to remove Prime Minister Imran Khan from office.
The house will begin a debate on the motion on Thursday and a vote is set to be held within seven days.
The move comes as Pakistan faces a recurring economic crisis. Khan's government is hoping the International Monetary Fund will release the next tranche of a six-billion dollar rescue package to shore up dwindling foreign currency reserves.
Khan lost his parliamentary majority with a series of defections from his party and a united opposition is calling on him to step down.
And, finally...
*) Will Smith apologises
Will Smith has apologised to Chris Rock for slapping him at Sunday night's Oscars ceremony.
Smith calls his own behaviour at the awards ceremony "unacceptable and inexcusable" in an Instagram post, and wrote that he would like to publicly apologize to Rock.
The film academy has started a formal review of the incident. Smith stormed onto the stage during the televised event and struck Rock in the face, after the comedian made a joke about the appearance of Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
*) Zelenskyy outlines agenda of fresh talks with Russia
Ukraine's priorities at the Ukrainian-Russian talks in Türkiye this week will be "sovereignty and territorial integrity," President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says.
"We are looking for peace, really, without delay," he says, adding there is an opportunity and a need for a face-to-face meeting in Türkiye.
Ukraine is prepared to consider declaring neutrality and offering security guarantees to Russia including nuclear-free status, he said, adding Russian President Vladimir Putin must meet with him to seek an end to the fighting.
*) Russia gains ground around Ukraine’s Mariupol
Russia has been continuing to gain ground around the devastated city of Ukraine's Mariupol. That's according to UK military intelligence that's been monitoring the situation since the conflict began.
Russian firepower has been focused on Mariupol since day one. More than half that city's population of 400-thousand has fled, but thousands are still trapped there. Fighters and residents in Mariupol have denied Russia an outright victory.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called the situation a 'humanitarian catastrophe', and accused Russia of kidnapping children across Ukraine and transporting them back to Russia.
*) China’s Shanghai in lockdown
China has launched a new lockdown of its largest city and financial hub - Shanghai. It will carry out mass Covid-19 testing on 26 million residents.
The testing drive will take nine days. The eastern parts of the city have already been locked down, with public transport also suspended. The western side will follow suit on Friday.
This is the biggest Covid-related disruption ever for Shanghai. It is currently facing a record wave of infections, with more than 34-hundred asymptomatic cases on Saturday.
*) Pakistan’s Imran Khan addresses huge public rally Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has addressed a huge public gathering in the capital Islamabad.
The rally was held ahead of a crucial no-confidence vote against him in parliament later today.
Speaking to supporters, he said the vote is part of an international conspiracy trying to topple his government. But critics of Khan's PTI party accuse it of corruption and mismanaging a growing economic crisis.
And, finally...
*) Will Smith wins Oscar
Hollywood has just closed its 94th Academy Awards. Streaming TV drama "CODA" took home the top prize for best picture. While Jane Campion became the third woman to win best director for 'The Power of the Dog'.
But in a viral moment that shocked attendees and viewers alike, Will Smith smacked the host, comedian Chris Rock, who made a joke about his wife's appearance.
Smith later won the best actor-- for his role in the film 'King Richard'. The Academy Awards released a statement on Twitter saying it "does not condone violence of any form".
🇺🇸 Joe Biden visits near Ukraine border in show of solidarity
🇺🇦 Zelenskyy: Ukraine held back all main directions of Russian attacks
🇰🇵 North Korea's Kim oversees test of Hwasong-17 'monster missile'
🇾🇪 Bread prices soar in Yemen due to Ukraine conflict
🎾 Trophies won by tennis star Boris Becker auctioned to pay his debts
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) NATO leaders discuss Ukraine in Brussels
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of making a “big mistake” by invading Ukraine.
Stoltenberg was speaking in Brussels, where leaders have gathered to discuss overhauling the alliance’s eastern defences.
Stoltenberg said the leaders of the US-led military alliance would “address the need for a reset of our deterrence and defence in the longer term”.
Earlier, in an emotional speech, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the alliance to provide "effective and unrestricted" support to Ukraine.
*) Russian army 'taking defensive positions' in Ukraine: Pentagon
A senior Pentagon official has said that the Russian army has retreated more than 30 kilometres east of Kiev in the past 24 hours and is establishing defensive positions on several fronts in Ukraine.
The official, who requested anonymity, told reporters that the Ukrainians have managed to push the Russians back 55 kilometres east and northeast of Kiev.
He said the Russian forces were actually not trying to advance right now.
*) North Korea fires 'unidentified projectile': South's military
South Korea’s military has said North Korea has fired an "unidentified projectile."
The Yonhap news agency reported that it was a "suspected long-range ballistic missile", citing Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff.
South Korea and the United States have recently warned that Pyongyang appears to be preparing to test-fire an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile at full range for the first time since 2017.
*) China continues search for second black box from crashed plane
Recovery crews continue to search for a second black box from a China Eastern Airlines passenger plane that plunged with 132 people on board.
It was revealed that the first black box found on Wednesday was the cockpit voice recorder, a Civil Aviation Administration of China official said based on an early assessment.
It is being sent to Beijing for analysis, the official added.
And, finally...
*) Türkiye submits bid to host UEFA EURO 2028
The Turkish Football Federation has submitted its bid to host the 2028 European Football Championship.
As of Wednesday, there are now three official candidates to host the 18th edition of the tournament.
The UK and the Republic of Ireland have submitted a joint bid and the Russian football federation has registered its interest in hosting the competition in either 2028 or 2032.
All Russian clubs and national teams are suspended from both FIFA and UEFA competitions until further notice in response to Russia's war on Ukraine.
*) Kherson facing ‘humanitarian catastrophe’
Some 300,000 people stranded in the Ukrainian city of Kherson face a “humanitarian catastrophe” as they run dangerously low on supplies under a Russian blockade.
Ukraine’s foreign ministry spokesperson warned that “food and medical supplies have almost run out, yet Russia refuses to open humanitarian corridors to evacuate civilians”.
Oleg Nikolenko said “Russia’s barbaric tactics must be stopped before it is too late!”
*) Russia seized relief workers in Mariupol convoy
Ukrainian leaders have accused Russia of seizing 15 rescue workers and drivers from a humanitarian convoy trying to get vital supplies into the besieged port city of Mariupol.
Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said the Russians seized 11 bus drivers and four rescue workers along with their vehicles, adding that their fate was unknown.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russian forces of blocking the aid convoy despite agreeing to the route ahead of time in his nightly video address.
*) US changes tone over Iran nuclear deal
US optimism that a deal to restore the 2015 agreement to limit Iran's nuclear development has soured, with Washington now warning it was headed toward "Plan B" if Tehran doesn't budge.
State Department spokesperson Ned Price said that an agreement is neither imminent nor is it certain.
He said the onus is on Tehran to make decisions that it might consider difficult.
Just a week ago Washington officials were hopeful that an agreement that aimed to halt Iran's march toward nuclear weapons capability was within reach.
*) Navalny's sentence extended to nine years in jail
A Russian court has found jailed Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny guilty of additional embezzlement and contempt of court charges and extended his sentence to nine years.
Having been behind bars for over a year, Navalny's defence team said he will serve his sentence for another eight years in a higher security prison.
Navalny, who will also have to pay a fine of $11,500, has denied the charges against him, saying they were punishment for challenging President Vladimir Putin.
And, finally...
*) Top-ranked Ash Barty quits tennis
Top-ranked tennis player Ash Barty has announced her shock retirement from the sport in a social media post, saying she will “step away and chase other dreams”.
"Today is difficult and filled with emotion for me as I announce my retirement from tennis," 25-year-old Barty said in an emotional video.
She had held the highest WTA rank for 114 consecutive weeks before her retirement.
*) Zelenskyy says Ukraine ready to discuss deal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he is prepared to discuss a commitment from Ukraine not to seek NATO membership in exchange for a ceasefire, the withdrawal of Russian troops.
Zelenskyy repeated his call for direct talks with Russian President Putin and said that unless he meets with Putin, it is impossible to understand whether Russia even wants to stop the war.
The Ukrainian president also said that Kiev will be ready to discuss the status of Crimea and the eastern Donbass region after a cease-fire and steps toward providing security guarantees.
*) Biden says Putin is weighing use of chemical weapons in Ukraine
US President Biden has said, without evidence, that Russia’s accusations that Kiev has biological and chemical weapons are false and indicate that Putin is considering using them himself.
"Now he's talking about new false flags he's setting up including, asserting that we in America have biological as well as chemical weapons in Europe, simply not true," Biden said.
"They are also suggesting that Ukraine has biological and chemical weapons in Ukraine. That's a clear sign he's considering using both of those."
*) No survivors found in China Eastern plane crash
No survivors have been found as rescuers searched the wreckage of a China Eastern plane carrying 132 people that crashed in southern Guangxi.
The Boeing 737-800 was flying at 8,840 metres when it entered a steep, fast dive around 0620GMT, according to data from FlightRadar24.com.
A rescue worker speculated that passengers and their belongings had been "totally incinerated" from the intensity of the blaze.
*) Rohingya praise US for recognising their genocide in Myanmar
Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh have welcomed the announcement by the United States that it considers the violent repression of their largely Muslim ethnic group in Myanmar a "genocide."
As news of the announcement by the US spread across the sprawling camps in Bangladesh that are now home to about one million Rohingya, many residents expressed their enthusiasm.
Refugees say the path to take action by the international community against the Myanmar military has opened up because of the declaration.
The US made the determination based on confirmed accounts of systematic, mass atrocities on civilians by Myanmar's military.
And, finally...
*) Study: Most Syrian refugees in Türkiye happy, don’t feel marginalised
A new study has found that most of the Syrians who fled the civil war in their country and are living in Türkiye are happy and don't want to go back home.
Syrians do not feel excluded or discriminated against in Türkiye, said Murat Erdogan, director of the Ankara-based Research Centre on Asylum and Migration.
Türkiye hosts around four million Syrians, the largest refugee population in the world.
The report, now in its third edition, is based on face-to-face surveys and set to be released next week.
*) Ukraine says no question of surrendering city of Mariupol
Kiev has rejected a Russian ultimatum to surrender the besieged southern city of Mariupol.
Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk dismissed the early morning deadline, saying Moscow should instead allow hundreds of thousands of trapped Mariupol residents to escape.
"We can't talk about surrendering weapons," Vereshchuk said, "we have already informed the Russian side about it."
The announcement followed Russia’s demand for Ukrainian forces to lay down their arms in the besieged city.
*) No agreement reached to evacuate Mariupol civilians
Staying in Ukraine, an agreement has been reached on creating eight humanitarian corridors to evacuate civilians from besieged Ukrainian towns and cities.
However, the city of Mariupol was not among them, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk said.
Vereshchuk said efforts to reach Mariupol with humanitarian supplies continued to fail.
*) US to declare Rohingya repression in Myanmar a ‘genocide’
Washington is set to declare that Myanmar’s years-long repression of the Rohingya Muslim population is a genocide.
The designation does not in and of itself portend drastic new measures against Myanmar’s military-led government.
But it could lead to additional international pressure on the government.
More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled from Buddhist-majority Myanmar to refugee camps in Bangladesh since August 2017, when the Myanmar military launched a clearance operation.
*) Pakistan lawmakers to vote on motion to oust PM Imran Khan next week
Pakistan's parliament will convene next week to take up a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The lower house speaker's office said that the vote will take place on March 25.
An alliance of opposition parties filed the motion against Khan this month, saying he had lost his parliamentary majority after over a dozen defections from his party, raising the risk of political turmoil.
And, finally…
*) Motor racing Leclerc wins Bahrain opener in Ferrari one-two
Charles Leclerc has won Formula One's season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix in a Ferrari one-two finish with teammate Carlos Sainz.
Mercedes's seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton took a surprise third place after a nightmare for Red Bull and reigning champion Max Verstappen who failed to score.
The result put Leclerc, who also set the fastest lap and was voted driver of the day by fans, in the overall lead of the drivers' standings.
*) Ukraine theatre sheltering over 1,000 civilians bombed
Ukraine has claimed that Russia destroyed a theatre harbouring more than a thousand people in the besieged southern port city of Mariupol, with the toll still unknown.
Officials posted images that appeared to show the once gleaming whitewashed three-storey theatre hollowed out and ablaze, with bricks and scaffolding piled high.
Russia's defence ministry denied it had targeted the theatre, instead claiming that the building had been mined and blown up by members of Ukraine's far-right Azov Battalion.
*) Biden calls Putin a ‘war criminal’
President Joe Biden has said Russian President Vladimir Putin "is a war criminal" for attacking Ukraine.
In an exchange with a reporter at the White House, Biden said, "oh I think he is a war criminal" after initially responding with a "no" to a question about whether he was ready to call Putin that.
That is the first time Biden has publicly branded Putin with that phrase.
The Kremlin condemned Biden's remark, saying it is "unacceptable and unforgivable".
*) Four dead after powerful Japan earthquake
Four people have been reported dead and more than 100 injured in Japan after a powerful overnight earthquake rattled large parts of the east coast and prompted a tsunami warning.
The 7.4-magnitude quake that hit the coast of Fukushima derailed a bullet train, opened cracks in highways and threw products from shelves in shops.
Later, the Japan Meteorological Agency lifted its low-risk advisory for a tsunami along the coasts of Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures. *) US Fed raises interest rate in battle against high inflation
The Federal Reserve escalated its battle against the wave of price increases battering the US economy, raising the benchmark interest rate.
The policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee announced a quarter-point rate hike, the first since 2018 and since it cut the rate to zero at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Global stocks surged after the Fed announced the hike despite the risks posed by the conflict in Ukraine.
*) Netflix to begin charging for shared accounts
Netflix has begun testing on charging a fee to subscribers who share their accounts with people who don't live in their homes.
The US-based streaming service has long taken a relaxed approach to users sharing passwords with family or friends, but recently saw stock dive on quarterly results that showed cooling subscriber growth.
In the coming weeks, Netflix will begin offering subscribers in Chile, Costa Rica and Peru the option to add as many as two people to "sub-accounts" at a monthly fee of $2 to $3.
*) Ukraine sees room for compromise in talks with Russia
Ukraine has said it sees possible room for compromise in talks with Russia despite Moscow's stepped up bombardment of Kiev and new assaults on the port city of Mariupol.
After delegations from Ukraine and Russia met again via video, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia’s demands were becoming "more realistic".
The two sides were expected to speak again.
The fast-moving developments on the diplomatic front and on the ground came as Moscow's offensive neared the three-week mark.
*) Ukraine says another Russian general killed in fighting
Ukraine has said a fourth Russian general has been killed in fighting.
Major General Oleg Mityaev died during the storming of Mariupol, said Ukrainian Interior Ministry adviser Anton Gerashchenko, who published a photo on Telegram of what he said was the dead officer.
46-year-old Mityaev commanded the 150th motorised rifle division and had fought in Syria, Gerashchenko said. There was no confirmation of the death from Russia.
*) Syrians mark uprising anniversary with message for Ukraine
Thousands of protesters in Syria's opposition and rebel enclave of Idlib have marked 11 years since the start of an anti-regime uprising.
Gathered on the main square in the northwestern city of Idlib, more than 5,000 people took part in one of the largest rallies the beleaguered region has seen in months.
Many of the demonstrators hoped the attack launched by the Syrian regime's main backer Russia in Ukraine would rekindle interest in their cause.
*) UN declares March 15 International Day to Combat Islamophobia
The UN General Assembly has adopted by consensus a resolution declaring March 15 as International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The resolution, introduced by Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, recognises "with deep concern" what it said is an "overall rise in instances of discrimination, intolerance and violence".
It marks the day when a gunman entered two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 51 worshippers and wounding 40 others in the terror attack.
And finally …
*) Court slaps fine on Russian woman after on-air TV protest
A court has fined a Russian State TV employee around 300 US dollars after she protested against her country's assault on Ukraine.
On live television, Marina Ovsyannikova appeared on set, stood behind the anchor with a placard.
On it was written 'no war, stop the war, don't believe the propaganda, they are lying to you here'.
It was reported that she was detained by security forces, and could face a jail sentence under new laws passed since the start of the Ukraine attack.
*) Russia pounds away at Ukraine as talks to continue
Russia's forces have continued to pound away at cities across Ukraine, including the capital, in a bombardment that deepened the humanitarian crisis.
Shortly before dawn, large explosions thundered across Kiev. Ukrainian emergency services said at least two people were killed after a strike on a 16-storey building in the capital.
Russia also pressed its advance on multiple fronts. But, a narrow diplomatic path stays open as Kiev and Moscow plan another round of talks.
*) UN chief: Russian offensive hurting poor countries
The United Nations chief has warned that Russia’s offensive on Ukraine is “hitting the poorest the hardest and planting the seeds for political instability and unrest around the globe.”
“Russia and Ukraine represent more than half of the world’s supply of sunflower oil and about 30 percent of the world’s wheat” Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.
He stressed that poor developing countries are now seeing their breadbasket “being bombed” as they face skyrocketing food, fuel and fertiliser prices.
*) Indian Karnataka state’s ban on hijab in class
An Indian court has upheld a ban on wearing of the hijab in classes in the southern state of Karnataka, a ruling that could set a precedent for the rest of the country.
"We are of the considered opinion that wearing of hijab by Muslim women does not form a part of essential religious practice," Chief Justice of the High Court of Karnataka said in the judgement.
Students who had challenged the ban in court had said wearing the hijab was a fundamental right guaranteed under India's constitution.
Critics of the ban say it's another way of marginalising Muslim community that accounts for about 13 percent of Hindu-majority country.
*) France shuts down another mosque
A mosque in southwestern France has been shut down for a six-month period amid an ongoing drive against Muslims and their places of worship.
The Al Farouk Mosque in Pessac district was closed for allegedly defending "radical Islam", the department governorate said in a statement.
The statement accused mosque authorities of giving sermons calling for non-compliance with French laws and legitimising terrorist attacks.
France has long been criticised by international organisations and NGOs for targeting Muslims.
And finally …
*) Elon Musk challenges Putin to fight over Ukraine
Elon Musk, the world's richest man, has challenged Russian President Vladimir Putin to a one-on-one fight to settle the fate of Ukraine.
The eccentric billionaire took to Twitter to see whether the Russian leader would test his mettle in person rather than through his country's forces fighting across the border.
"I hereby challenge Vladimir Putin to single combat. Stakes are Ukraine,” Musk said.
"Do you accept this fight?" he added in Russian. There was no immediate reaction from the Kremlin.
*) US warns China of consequences of helping Russia
The White House has warned Beijing of severe "consequences" if it helps Moscow evade sanctions as the Russian offensive in Ukraine widens.
"We will not stand by and allow any country to compensate Russia for its losses from the economic sanctions," US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said ahead of talks with Beijing.
Russia reportedly asked China for military and economic aid for its assault on Ukraine just hours after Washington’s warnings.
*) UN urges Russia to stop attacking health facilities
Three UN agencies have called for an immediate end to Russian attacks on health care facilities in Ukraine, calling them “an act of unconscionable cruelty”.
The UN Children’s Fund, the World Health Organization and the UN Population Fund condemned the attacks on patients and health workers in a joint statement.
In 24 of the reported Russian attacks, health care facilities were damaged or destroyed, while in five cases, ambulances were hit.
A total of 12 people were killed and 34 injured, according to the UN agencies' statement.
*) Europe new ‘hotspot’ for arms imports
Europe has seen the world's biggest rise in arms imports in the past five years, according to a study published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
While arms exports declined globally by 4.6 percent in the 2017-2021 period compared with the preceding five-year period, Europe posted a 19-percent increase.
Researchers expect the trend to accelerate following recent rearmament commitments amid the Russian operation in Ukraine.
*) Iran condemns Saudi executions
Iran has strongly condemned Saudi Arabia’s mass execution of convicted criminals, saying the move violates "basic principles of human rights and international law”.
In a statement, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the mass execution of 81 men was carried out "without observing fair judicial processes”. More than half of those executed were Shia Muslims.
Tehran’s condemnation came hours after Iran temporarily suspended a fifth round of tension-easing talks with Saudi Arabia brokered by Iraq, which were set to resume on Wednesday after a long pause.
And finally …
*) ‘The Power of the Dog’, ‘Dune’ reign at BAFTA
Dark Western "The Power of the Dog" has scooped the top two honours at the British Academy Film Awards, winning best film and director for Jane Campion, beating Denis Villeneuve to top prize.
Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic "Dune", on the other hand, had lead nominations with 11 nods and picked up the most prizes, winning five awards.
*) Russian forces advance on Kiev as city becomes 'fortress'
Russian troops have edged closer to Kiev, as officials said the Ukrainian capital was being transformed into a "fortress".
Hundreds of thousands of civilians remain holed up in Ukrainian cities under a Russian bombing campaign after talks between Moscow and Kiev's top diplomats ended without any progress.
The Ukrainian military in a statement warned "the enemy is trying to eliminate the defences of the Ukrainian forces around" regions to the west and northwest of the capital "to block Kiev."
*) China says Ukraine situation 'disconcerting', calls for truce
China's premier has called the situation in Ukraine "grave" and "disconcerting" and offered Beijing's help in playing a "positive role" for peace while refusing to criticise Russia.
Li Keqiang told reporters at an annual news conference that "we support and encourage all efforts that are conducive to a peaceful settlement of the crisis."
"The pressing task now is to prevent tension from escalating or even getting out of control," Li said, adding it is important to support Russia and Ukraine in ceasefire talks.
*) Türkiye: Comprehensive peace treaty between Russia, Ukraine on table
Turkiye’s foreign minister has said signing a "comprehensive peace treaty" is on the agenda that Russia and Ukraine are discussing.
"There are a lot of topics both countries are discussing, including neutrality, and the signing of a comprehensive peace treaty is also on the table,” Mevlut Cavusoglu said.
He was speaking after a meeting with his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts in Antalya.
It was the first time that Moscow and Kiev met at the ministerial level since Russia attacked its neighbour two weeks ago.
*) Fears of violence in Libya as pro-Bashagha militia gathers near Tripoli
The UN has warned against "provocation" in Libya that could lead to clashes, citing reports of armed elements mobilising around the capital Tripoli.
Video footage and pictures posted online purportedly showed convoys of militiamen loyal to Fathi Bashagha massing east of the Libyan capital.
Bashagha, who was named as Libya's prime minister by the eastern Tobruk parliament, has yet to arrive in the capital but has insisted he will govern the country "by force of the law" from Tripoli.
And finally …
*) NASA opens sample taken from the Moon 50 years on
The Apollo missions to the Moon brought a total of 2,196 rock samples to Earth. But NASA has only just started opening one of the last ones, collected 50 years ago.
For all that time, some tubes were kept sealed so that they could be studied years later, with the help of the latest technical breakthroughs.
Lori Glaze, director of the Planetary Science Division at NASA Headquarters, said NASA knew "science and technology would evolve and allow scientists to study the material in new ways to address new questions in the future".
*) Kiev accuses Moscow of genocide after children's hospital bombed
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of carrying out genocide after Ukrainian officials said Russian aircraft bombed a children's hospital in besieged city of Mariupol.
The attack underscored US warnings that the biggest assault on a European state since 1945 could become increasingly attritional after Russia's early failures.
The White House condemned the hospital bombing as a "barbaric use of military force to go after innocent civilians".
*) WHO reports 18 attacks on health facilities since war began
The World Health Organisation has documented 18 attacks on health facilities, workers and ambulances since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began.
WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the UN agency delivered 81 metric tons of supplies to Ukraine and is now establishing a pipeline to send further equipment.
Tedros said WHO had sent enough surgical supplies to treat 150 trauma patients and other supplies for a range of health conditions to treat 45,000 people.
*) Top diplomats of Russia, Ukraine reach Türkiye for trilateral talks
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba have arrived in Antalya ahead of a tripartite meeting between top diplomats of Türkiye, Russia, and Ukraine.
The meeting will take place at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum as part of Ankara's efforts to mediate between the warring countries.
Kuleba expressed hope that his Russian counterpart Lavrov will approach talks in Türkiye on ending the two-week war in a sincere manner.
*) Foreign policy neophyte Yoon wins South Korea's presidency
The opposition conservative Yoon Suk-yeol has won South Korea's presidential election, propelling a political novice to the helm of Asia's fourth-largest economy.
After a bitter, hard-fought election campaign, Yoon, formerly a top government prosecutor who has never held elected office, was declared winner.
"This is a victory of the great South Korean people," Yoon told cheering supporters, who were chanting his name at the country's National Assembly.
And finally …
*) Twin lions fleeing Ukraine war arrive at Belgian refuge
A Belgian animal shelter has taken in two young lions evacuated from Ukraine, who it says Russian troops had threatened to shoot when they encountered them outside Kiev.
Twin males Tsar and Jamil, born in January 2021, were due to be transferred to Belgium in May after Ukrainian authorities seized them from private owners who mistreated them.
However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine meant the transfer had to happen immediately, with shelling of Kiev causing them stress and injury as they jumped against their cages.
*) Air alert declared in Ukraine capital as fighting continues
An air alert has been declared in and around Ukraine’s capital Kiev, with residents urged to get to bomb shelters as quickly as possible.
For days, as Moscow's forces have laid siege to Ukrainian cities, attempts to create corridors to safely evacuate civilians have stumbled amid continuing fighting.
Russian forces have seen their advances stopped in certain areas, including around Kiev, the capital, by fiercer resistance than expected from the Ukrainians
*) Russia to allow Ukrainian civilians to leave major cities
Russia has announced its forces will stop firing from 700 GMT to provide humanitarian corridors for people to leave Kiev and four other cities.
Civilian evacuations took place on Tuesday, in particular from the town of Sumy, where two convoys left during the day.
Evacuations also took place outside the capital Kiev.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is travelling to Türkiye, where he will have talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba, according to the TASS news agency.
*) Israel’s Herzog visits Turkey
Israeli President Isaac Herzog is set to meet Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during his two-day visit to Ankara starting Wednesday.
Ankara and Tel Aviv have had ups and downs in their ties since the 1950s. But the two countries have been able to find common ground despite their differences.
In a remarkable development for both states, the two presidents are likely to discuss the range of issues affecting the two states.
*) Chinese-linked hackers target at least six US states: Mandiant
At least six US states have been targeted by hackers linked to China who exploited vulnerabilities in tech programs.
"APT41's recent activity against US state governments consists of significant new capabilities," researchers at cybersecurity company Mandiant said on Tuesday.
Notorious Chinese hacking group APT41 has been targeting US states in a tenacious and adaptive campaign, according to a Mandiant report.
And finally …
*) Rare Steve Jobs items hit the auction block
Items from the birth of Apple, home computing and video gaming are up for grabs at an auction, which will conclude on March 17.
The top lot from the auction is a July 1976 check to pay $3,430 for parts for the Apple 1 computer, signed by Apple founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.
The auction includes many items relating to Jobs, including high school photos and an application he had filled out for a job at Atari, which will also come as an NFT (non-fungible token).
*) Kiev says Russian aircraft bombed central, eastern Ukraine
Russian aircraft bombed cities in eastern and central Ukraine overnight, Ukrainian officials have said, adding the shelling also pounded suburbs of the capital Kiev.
In cities near the Russian border, bombs fell on residential buildings and destroyed a power plant, a regional leader said. Bombs also hit oil depots in towns located west of Kiev.
In Bucha, a Kiev suburb, the mayor reported heavy artillery fire.
*) Second Russian general killed in Kharkiv fighting: Ukraine
Staying in Ukraine, a Russian general has been killed in the fighting around Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city, the Ukrainian military intelligence agency said.
It identified him as Major General Vitaly Gerasimov and said he had fought with Russian forces in Syria and Chechnya and had taken part in the seizure of Crimea in 2014.
Russia has not commented and it was not possible to confirm the death independently. Another Russian general had been killed earlier in the fighting.
*) Russia becomes world's 'most sanctioned' country amid Ukraine war
Russia has become the world's most sanctioned country due to its war on Ukraine, according to data by a monitor.
Moscow has been subjected to 2,778 new sanctions in just under two weeks since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered troops into Ukraine, bringing the total to 5,532, according to the global sanctions monitoring database castellum.ai.
In comparison, Iran has faced 3,616 sanctions, followed by Syria and North Korea, with 2,608 and 2,077 sanctions respectively.
*) Israeli police kill another Palestinian man in alleged knife-attack
Israeli police have shot dead a Palestinian man in an alleged stabbing attack in Jerusalem's Old City.
Palestinian sources identified him as 22-year-old Abdel Rahman Qassam from a refugee camp near Ramallah.
It was the second such incident in as many days. Rights groups accuse Israel of killing Palestinians who could have been arrested.
And finally …
*) Solemn Paris Fashion Week draws to a close
Paris Fashion Week has been over-shadowed by the war in Ukraine, with designers struggling for ways to balance declarations of solidarity with the glamour and spectacle of their shows.
Some offered heartfelt tributes to the Ukrainian people alongside their women's autumn-winter collections, none more so than Balenciaga designer Demna.
A refugee himself during a conflict in his native Georgia in the early 1990s, he admitted that fashion week felt like "an absurdity" against the background of the war in Ukraine.
But he decided that cancelling the show, which is due to end on Tuesday, would have felt like "surrendering to the evil that has already hurt me so much for almost 30 years".
*) Russia steps up shelling in Ukraine cities
Russian forces stepped up overnight shelling of Ukrainian cities in the centre, north and south of the country, presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovich said.
He said the areas that came under heavy shelling include the outskirts of Kiev, Chernihiv in the north, Mykolaiv in the south, and Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city.
The UN says 1.5 million people have now fled in the fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II.
*) Ukraine war a 'moment of choice for China' – Australia
China has been urged to end its tacit political and economic support for the Ukraine war.
The call came from Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who said "The crisis that now grips Europe heralds a moment of choice for China".
Morrison pressed China to shape the actions of its Russian ally and prove that Beijing is committed to global peace and the principle of sovereignty.
*) US, Venezuela discuss easing oil sanctions
In their first high-level bilateral talks in years, US and Venezuelan officials have discussed the possibility of easing oil sanctions on Venezuela but made little progress.
The US delegation met with President Nicolas Maduro and his vice president as part of Washington’s attempts to separate Russia from its key allies.
Both sides used the meeting to present what a source described as "maximalist" demands, reflecting longtime tensions between the US and one of its biggest ideological foes.
*) Leader of South Korea's ruling party attacked ahead of presidential election
The leader of South Korea's ruling party has been admitted to hospital after being hit on the head by a stranger while campaigning for this week's presidential election.
Song Young-gil, leader of the Democrats and their candidate Lee Jae-myung's election campaign, was struck on the head with a small hammer-like tool.
Party officials said Song was in stable condition and the attacker was handed to police. The attack was yet another twist in a race overshadowed by scandals, smear tactics and gaffes.
And finally …
*) Oil rockets, gold tops $2,000 amid Ukraine war
Equity markets plunged, while oil prices soared to a near 14-year high and safe-haven gold broke $2,000 amid investor concerns over the impact of the Ukraine war on the global economy.
Trading floors were a sea of red in early exchanges with experts warning of a period of stagflation with the spike in crude likely to light a fire under already high inflation.
The commodity at one point rocketed almost 18 percent to $139.13 – a level not seen since mid-2008.
The panic on trading floors also sent safe havens rocketing up, with gold hitting as much as $2,000.86, its highest since mid-2020.
*) Fire at Ukraine nuclear plant 'extinguished', Kiev blames Russia
The fire at Europe's largest nuclear power plant has been extinguished, Ukrainian emergency services said, after Kiev blamed Russian military shelling for the blaze.
Ukraine's emergency services said it was able to put out the fire after the Russian military eventually allowed rescuers to access the site.
There are no victims," the emergency services said in a statement on Facebook. *) 'Not our war': Gulf countries resist Western pressure to raise oil output
Russia's invasion of Ukraine has sent energy prices surging, but the oil-rich Gulf monarchies have so far resisted Western pressure to raise output, prioritising their own strategic and economic interests.
The price of a barrel of West Texas Intermediate crude topped $115, the highest since 2008, as the war and sanctions against Moscow stoked fears about global supplies.
Russia is the world's second-biggest crude exporter after Saudi Arabia, which is close to Western governments but also to Moscow.
*) Hundreds of gunmen killed in Nigeria
At least 200 gunmen have been killed in the past three days in Nigeria's central-northern state of Niger during a security operation to clear armed gangs from the area.
The Niger regional commissioner in charge of internal security, Emmanuel Umar, said that some leaders of the armed gangs, known locally as bandits, were among those killed.
The operation was led by the army and volunteers from local vigilante groups and community leaders.
*) UN says Canada must amend law stripping rights of Indigenous descendants
UN committee on women's rights urged Canada to address discrimination in a law that has effectively stripped tens of thousands of descendants of Indigenous women of their identities and rights.
UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women called on Ottawa to amend Indian Act "to provide registration to all matrilineal descendants on an equal basis."
The legislation has been the primary law used to administer Canada's Indigenous peoples since 1876.
*) Bill Gates's ex-wife slams him for Epstein meetings
Melinda French Gates criticised her ex-husband Bill Gates for having met multiple times with Jeffrey Epstein, the financier accused of child sex crimes who committed suicide in 2019.
In her first televised interview since the couple announced their divorce in May, French Gates acknowledged that she had once met Epstein, saying that afterward she "had nightmares."
"I wanted to see who this man was, and I regretted it from the second I stepped in the door," she said, without clarifying when the meeting occurred.
*) Ukraine refugee exodus at 1M in one week
The UN refugee agency has said one million people have fled Ukraine since Russia's military campaign less than a week ago, an exodus without precedent in this century for its speed.
The tally from UNHCR amounts to more than 2 percent of Ukraine's population on the move in under a week. The World Bank counted the population at 44 million at the end of 2020.
The UN agency has predicted that up to 4 million people could eventually leave Ukraine but cautioned that even that projection could be revised upward.
*) Lavrov says Russia's goal is to 'demilitarise, denazify' Ukraine
The goal of Moscow's special "military operation" is to demilitarise Ukraine, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said, accusing Ukraine's leader of promoting "anti-Russian, Russophobe" rhetoric.
Once Ukraine has been demilitarised, the Ukrainians "must decide themselves how they will live", Lavrov said in an interview with Qatar's Al Jazeera TV channel.
All people living in Ukraine must have a say in this matter, he said.
*) Scholz: Iran nuclear deal can't be 'postponed any longer'
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that a new Iran nuclear agreement "cannot be postponed any longer", during a visit to Israel that staunchly opposes efforts to forge a deal.
"What we would like to see is that an agreement is reached in Vienna," Scholz told reporters alongside Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, a vocal critic of the international talks in Austria's capital.
"Now is the time to make a decision," Scholz said.
*) Türkiye relaxes mask mandate amid drop in cases
Türkiye has relaxed its mask mandate, allowing people to ditch them in open-air spaces and in places with sufficient ventilation and where social distancing can be maintained.
Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said people would be required to continue wearing masks in planes, buses, theatres, cinemas, hospitals and classrooms.
In another change, the use of HES codes – Türkiye’s coronavirus contact tracing system – has been lifted and the public will no longer have to show their code at the entrance to any building or event, said Koca.
And finally …
*) Collective of US states probes TikTok's impact on children
A consortium of US states has announced an investigation into TikTok's possible harms to young users of the platform, which has boomed in popularity, especially among children.
Officials across the US have launched their own probes and lawsuits against Big Tech giants as the national government has failed to pass new regulations, due in part to partisan gridlock.
The consortium of eight states will look into the harms TikTok can cause to young users and what TikTok knew about those possible harms, said a statement from California attorney general Rob Bonta.
*) Russian airborne troops land in Ukraine's second city Kharkiv
Russian airborne troops have landed in the eastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, the Ukrainian army said on Wednesday, adding that there were immediate clashes.
The army said that Russian troops have attacked a local hospital and there is an ongoing fight between the invaders and the Ukrainians.
Earlier, the central square of Ukraine's second city was shelled by advancing Russian forces, killing at least 21 people and leaving many more injured.
*) Biden: US closing airspace to Russia, going after oligarchs
US President Joe Biden has said that Washington will join allies in banning Russia's aircraft from using its airspace and branded his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin a "dictator" during his State of the Union address.
He said that in the battle between democracy and autocracy, democracies are rising to the moment, and the world is clearly choosing the side of peace and security.
The American president also took aim at Russian oligarchs whom he said have bilked billions of dollars off Putin's government, warning them "we're coming for your ill-begotten gains".
*) Treat Türkiye like Ukraine for bloc's membership, Erdogan tells EU
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called on the European Union to treat his country like it does Ukraine, without waiting for it to be "hit by a war".
"Show Türkiye the same sensitivity that we are witnessing towards Ukraine," Erdogan said at a press conference in Ankara.
Several European nations had called on EU member states to immediately grant Ukraine a EU candidate country status and open membership talks after Russia’s aggression.
On the other hand, Türkiye has been a candidate for EU membership since 1987 but talks have floundered in recent years.
*) World bank sets more than $1B in aid for Afghanistan
The World Bank has announced more than 1 billion dollars in humanitarian aid for Afghanistan.
It said the aid will go to UN agencies and international NGOs and will "remain outside the control of the interim Taliban administration."
The funds, to be delivered in the form of grants, aim "to support the delivery of essential basic services, protect vulnerable Afghans," the Washington-based institution said in a statement. And finally … *) ExxonMobil, Apple, Boeing cut ties with Moscow
Apple, ExxonMobil and Boeing have announced in rapid succession steps to withdraw or freeze business in Russia.
ExxonMobil will begin a phased withdrawal from the giant Sakhalin offshore oilfield that it has operated since 1995.
Apple will halt all product sales and limit the use of Apple Pay and other services in the country.
Boeing suspended its support for Russian airlines and its operations in Moscow.
*) Moscow, Kiev plan 'second round' of conflict talks
Negotiators from Ukraine and Russia will return to their capital cities for consultations and have plans for fresh talks, both sides announced after the initial talks.
"The delegations are returning to their capitals for consultations and have discussed the possibility of meeting for a second round … soon," a Ukrainian negotiator said.
"We agreed to keep the negotiations going," the head of the Russian delegation added.
*) Dozens of Ukraine soldiers killed, Russian military convoy grows More than 70 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed after Russian artillery hit a military base in Okhtyrka, a city between Kharkiv and Kiev, a Ukrainian official said.
The official later added that many Russian soldiers and some local residents were also killed during the fighting.
Satellite images from Maxar Technologies showed a Russian military convoy north of the Ukrainian capital of Kiev that stretches for about 64 km.
The Maxar photos also showed deployments of ground forces and ground attack helicopter units in southern Belarus.
Meanwhile, Ukraine called for a no-fly zone for Russian aircrafts, which was rejected by the US as a step that could lead to a war between Moscow and Washington.
*) Nearly half of humanity is living in danger due to climate crisis
A latest report by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has shown that “nearly half of humanity is living in the danger zone now".
People and ecosystems least able to cope are being hardest hit by the climate crises, scientists said in the UN report.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres commented that the "IPCC report is an atlas of human suffering and a damning indictment of failed climate leadership”.
*) Burkina Faso junta chief orders three-year transition Burkina Faso's junta chief Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba has signed a charter setting a three-year transition period before the country holds elections.
"The duration of the transition is set at 36 months from the date of the inauguration of the president," according to the transition charter. The charter comes just over a month after Damiba led a coup to overthrow the country's elected leader Roch Marc Christian Kabore.
*) Disney, Sony Pictures halt film releases in Russia
Disney and Sony Pictures have suspended the release of their films in theatres in Russia after Moscow's assault on Ukraine, the companies announced separately.
Upcoming titles "Turning Red" from Pixar and "Morbius" from Sony Pictures are included in the decision.
The move follows the example of other major firms choosing to pull out of the country since President Vladimir Putin launched an invasion into Ukraine last week.
*) Ukraine: More than 350 civilians dead
352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed during Russia's military campaign, including 14 children, according to Ukraine's Interior Ministry.
An additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.
The ministry's statement did not give any information on casualties among Ukraine's armed forces.
Russia says its troops are targeting only Ukrainian military facilities, adding that Ukraine's civilian population is not in danger.
*) UN: Missiles hit radioactive waste site in Kiev
The United Nations' nuclear watchdog has said a radioactive waste disposal site in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev was hit with missiles in an overnight strike.
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi said Ukrainian authorities informed his office about the strike.
There are no reports of damage to the buildings or indications of a release of radioactive material, but the IAEA is expecting the results of on-site radioactive monitoring, Grossi said.
*) Russian rouble drops almost 30%
Russia's rouble has plunged nearly 30 percent against the dollar after world powers imposed fresh, harsher sanctions on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.
The rouble was indicated to be down 27 percent at 114.33 per dollar in offshore trading, according to Bloomberg News.
The decline came after Western allies ratcheted up sanctions including blocking certain Russian banks from the SWIFT international payments system
*) N.Korea conducts test for developing reconnaissance satellite
North Korea has reportedly conducted a test for developing a reconnaissance satellite system a day after a missile launch was detected from the country.
The country's state news agency KCNA has confirmed the launch of a missile from an area near Pyongyang - without elaborating on what type of rocket had been used.
The launch is for the test of a high definition photographing system, which “is of great significance in developing the reconnaissance satellite", the agency reported.
And finally …
*) Thousands ordered to leave as 'weather bomb' submerges Australian towns
Thousands of people have been ordered to leave their homes after heavy rains smashed Australia's east coast, with authorities warning of further life-threatening floods.
The death toll rose to eight after a man was swept away trying to cross a flooded road, emergency services said.
The Brisbane River in Australia's third largest city neared its expected peak early in the day, with around 15,000 homes there impacted by rising waters.
*) Attacks across Ukraine as dozens die
Russian missiles have rained down on Ukrainian cities after Moscow announced a military operation. About 100,000 people have been displaced.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said at least 137 Ukrainians, both military personnel and civilians, were killed after the first day of fighting.
He called up conscripts and reservists nationwide to fight in a general mobilisation.
*) US announces sanctions against Russia
The United States has imposed harsh sanctions on Russia. But Washington and allies have stopped short of enacting even tougher measures.
The fresh sanctions cut off Russia's two largest banks from US dollar transactions.
The allies also imposed export controls on high-tech items aimed at crippling Russia's defence and aerospace sectors.
Energy giant Gazprom and other major companies will not be able to raise financing in Western markets.
*) IMF, World Bank chiefs warn of global impacts
Leaders of the World Bank and IMF have signalled that they are ready to help Ukraine, and warned that the conflict will have repercussions for the global economy.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said that the fighting "adds significant economic risk for the region and the world".
World Bank President David Malpass said that "the devastating developments in Ukraine will have far-reaching economic and social impacts".
*) Deadly quake strikes Indonesia's Sumatra island A 6.2-magnitude earthquake has struck Indonesia's Sumatra island. Two people died and 20 were injured in West Pasaman when the quake hit the island's north at a depth of 12 kilometres.
No tsunami warning was issued. There were no immediate reports of serious damage.
The quake was felt as far away as Malaysia and Singapore. And finally …
*) Djokovic loses world number one ranking
Novak Djokovic has lost his Dubai quarter-final and his world number one ranking in one go.
He suffered an upset at the hands of Czech player Jiri Vesely on Thursday.
Daniil Medvedev replaced him at the top of the rankings. Medvedev became the first man since 2004 outside the "Big Four" to occupy the number one ranking.
*) Putin launches 'military operation' in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin has launched a military operation in Ukraine.
In a surprise address, Putin justified the move by claiming Kiev was overseeing a "genocide" in eastern Ukraine. He called on Ukrainian soldiers to lay down their arms.
US President Joe Biden urged world leaders to speak out against Putin's "aggression" and vowed Russia would be held accountable.
*) Explosions in Ukraine as Russia targets military infrastructure Explosions were heard in Ukraine's capital, Kiev, and several other cities on Thursday.
Ukrainian border guards reported being under attack along the Russian and Belarusian frontiers.
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a Facebook post that Russia was attacking his country's "military infrastructure". He urged citizens not to panic and vowed victory.
His foreign minister said Ukraine will defend itself and will win.
*) UAE plans to buy Chinese aircraft after attacks by Yemen rebels
The United Arab Emirates has said it plans to buy a dozen Chinese L15 aircraft.
The move comes at a time when it is seeking to bolster its defences after a series of attacks by Yemeni rebels.
Meanwhile, the United States has announced sanctions against what it said were members of an international financing network for Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
*) US truckers launch convoy in pandemic protest
Hundreds of truckers and their supporters have set off from southern California on a convoy to protest against pandemic restrictions.
"The People's Convoy" began its journey on Wednesday and is expected to reach the Washington DC area on March 5.
The organisers say they want an end to mask mandates, vaccination requirements and business shutdowns.
The protest is inspired by demonstrations that crippled Canada's cities for weeks.
*) Neolithic-era ritual complex found in Jordan desert
Archaeologists deep in the Jordanian desert have discovered a 9,000-year-old ritualistic complex.
The Stone Age shrine site was used by gazelle hunters and features carved stone figures, an altar and a miniature model of a large-scale hunting trap.
The Neolithic-era ritual site was discovered inside a larger campsite last October by a joint French-Jordanian team.
Similar structures of two or more stone walls have been found in deserts across Saudi Arabia, Syria, Türkiye and Kazakhstan.
*) US sanctions Russia after its recognition of breakaway regions
US President Joe Biden has announced tough new sanctions on Russia.
They include steps to starve Russia of financing and target financial institutions and the country's so-called elites.
The move came after the sanctions announced by Britain and the European Union.
But Biden left the door open to a final effort at diplomacy to avert a full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's recognition of the Donetsk and Luhansk rebel republics in Ukraine has sent tensions soaring.
*) Germany halts Nord Stream 2 project
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has said he is suspending the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project with Russia.
Scholz said he ordered a halt to the review process by the German regulator for the pipeline.
The move is seen by Western partners and Kiev as a bargaining chip in the stand-off with Russia.
Nord Stream 2 was set to deliver Russian natural gas to Germany via the Baltic Sea.
Berlin's allies argue that the project would give Moscow too much leverage by increasing Germany's energy dependence. Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy had demanded an immediate halt to the project.
*) Iran nuclear talks in Vienna about to cross finish line
Talks on restoring a deal to curb Iran's nuclear programme and ease sanctions are nearing conclusion.
Several Iranian officials said some minor technical issues were being discussed in Vienna.
While a deal is expected before the end of the week, the officials said "nothing is agreed until everything is agreed".
Sources close to the negotiations also said a prisoner swap between Iran and the United States is expected soon.
*) India donates wheat to Afghanistan after deal with Pakistan
India has dispatched wheat to Afghanistan to help alleviate food shortages.
Officials have flagged off the first convoy of 50 trucks carrying 2,500 metric tonnes of wheat at Attari in the northern state of Punjab.
The move came after Pakistan gave permission to allow the shipments across their shared border.
Indian Foreign Ministry termed it an "important milestone in India's humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people". And finally …
*) Oscars will hand out eight awards ahead of broadcast
The Oscars are undergoing a radical slimming down.
Eight awards will be presented off-air during next month's telecast of the 94th Academy Awards. The edited highlights will be added "seamlessly into the live televised show".
The Academy's latest move aims to boost interest and viewership in its flagship event.
The decision will free up more time for musical performances, comedy and tributes, Academy president David Rubin has said. Television ratings for the Oscars have dramatically declined in recent years.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Russia recognises Ukraine breakaway regions as independent
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered his troops to move into Ukraine’s separatist Donetsk and Luhansk regions, held by Russian-backed rebels, thus marking Moscow’s official recognition of the breakaway regions.
Putin claims the troops are “on a peacekeeping mission” and that Russian citizens there are “at risk of massacre” by the western-backed government in Kiev.
Following the development, the UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting, with the majority of members voicing support for Ukraine's sovereign integrity.
*) 'Significant progress' made in Iran nuclear deal
A revival of the Iran nuclear deal appears closer than it has been since Donald Trump withdrew the US from the pact in 2018. Iran's Foreign Ministry says 'significant progress' has been made during talks in Vienna, but that Tehran needs guarantees.
One of those guarantees would be a promise from Western parties not to withdraw from a renewed pact or reinstate sanctions.
Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi is on a visit to Qatar, where he met with the Qatari emir. The leaders said they hope an agreement is close.
*) Scores killed in Burkina Faso gold mine explosion
About 60 people have been killed and dozens more wounded in an explosion at an informal gold mining site in southwest Burkina Faso, state television reports.
The cause of the explosion in Poni province was not yet known, Poni's high commissioner Antoine Douamba told state television.
Images showed a large blast site of felled trees and destroyed tin houses. Bodies could be seen on the ground covered in mats.
*) Saudi-led coalition destroys 'Houthi drone' in Saudi city of Jizan Sixteen people, including foreigners, were wounded in Saudi Arabia after the kingdom destroyed a drone launched against an airport by Yemeni rebels.
"A drone launched in the direction of King Abdullah Airport in Jazan was destroyed, with debris falling inside the airport," the Saudi-led coalition says.
It is the second airport attack in less than two weeks blamed on or claimed by the Houthi insurgents.
*) Historical “caravanserai” in southeast Türkiye turns into a museum
An 800-year-old “caravanserai” belonging to the Ayyubid period in southeastern Sanliurfa province of Türkiye will be transformed into a pepper museum.
Han el Barur caravanserai, whose restoration was completed in the Harran district of the city in 2018, will serve as the "Isot Museum".
Named after isot, which is a special dried red pepper from southeastern Türkiye's Sanliurfa, the museum will showcase various spices from across the world, including India and China.
*) Biden, Putin agree to hold summit on Ukraine crisis
France says US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have agreed - in principle - to hold a summit on Ukraine.
But Biden said the meeting would “only take place” if Russia does not invade Ukraine.
The summit is planned after the meeting of G7 leaders on February 24, which will also discuss the ongoing crisis. The announcement was made as new satellite imagery shows an increase of Russian troops on its border with Ukraine.
*) Iranian lawmakers lay out six condition to revive nuclear deal Iran could reach a new nuclear deal with western countries soon. Iran's parliament laid out six conditions to revive the deal. Tehran says it will reverse its nuclear steps but insists Washington must first lift sanctions on the country.
But Israel's Prime Minister Naftali Bennett is sceptical about the agreement. According to him, the new deal is weaker than the previous one in 2015. *) Ethiopia begins producing power at Nile mega-dam
Ethiopia starts producing electricity from a controversial dam built on the Blue Nile, even as Sudan and Egypt continue their opposition to the project. After inaugurating the dam on Sunday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam will feed electricity to 60 percent of the population.
He also dismissed Egyptian and Sundanese concerns that the dam will hinder the flow of the Nile's water into their countries.
*) Erdogan visits African countires Turkiye has donated 100-thousand Covid-19 vaccines to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited Kinshasa as part of his four-day tour of central and west Africa.
He was received by his Congolese counterpart President Felix Tshi-sekedi.
At least seven bilateral agreements on defence, construction and transport were signed. Erdogan also thanked his host for supporting Turkiye's fight against terrorism.
On Monday, President Ergodan will visit Senegal and his trip will end in Guinea-Bissau.
And finally …
*) Beijing Winter Olympics closes with stunning ceremony
The Beijing Winter Olympics, which saw sporting drama and milestones but was tarnished by a Russian doping scandal, has ended with a stunning closing ceremony.
International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach hailed the Games as an "unforgettable Olympic experience".
The Games will be remembered for new stars such as Eileen Gu, but also for the doping controversy that had engulfed 15-year-old figure skater Kamila Valieva.
The next Winter Olympics will be held in Milano-Cortina in 2026.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Blinken, Lavrov to meet next week if Russia doesn't invade Ukraine
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has accepted an invitation to meet with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov next week.
The State Department has said the meeting will happen "provided there is no further Russian invasion of Ukraine".
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden will host a call on Friday about the Ukraine crisis.
The leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Britain, the European Union and NATO will take part.
*) Police arrest Canadian trucker-led protest leaders
Canadian police have begun arresting leaders of a trucker-led protest that has choked Ottawa's streets for three weeks.
A video shared to Twitter showed protest leaders Tamara Lich and Chris Barber being taken into police detention.
Busloads of police officers have arrived near Parliament Hill to break up the demonstration against Canada’s Covid-19 restrictions.
Authorities have installed security barriers and restricted access to the downtown area occupied by protesters.
*) US, Iran can reach nuclear deal 'within days' if Tehran 'shows seriousness'
The United States has said "substantial progress" has been made during negotiations in Vienna to save the Iran nuclear deal.
It believes an "understanding on mutual return to full implementation" of the 2015 deal could be reached within days if Iran is serious.
The Vienna talks involve Iran, as well as Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. The United States is involved indirectly.
*) Boy trapped for three days in Afghan well has died
A five-year-old boy trapped for three days in an Afghan village well has died.
Taliban Interior Ministry senior adviser Anas Haqqani said “with great sorrow, young Haidar is separated from us forever".
On Tuesday, the child slipped to the bottom of a well being dug in Shokak, a village in Zabul province.
The incident took place around two weeks after a similar attempt to rescue a boy from a Moroccan well, which also ended with the child found dead.
And finally …
*) Eileen Gu makes history with third medal at Beijing Winter Games
Chinese superstar Eileen Gu has capped her successful Beijing Olympics by winning freeski halfpipe gold.
With this, the Californian-born Gu became the first action-sports athlete to pick up three medals at the same Winter Games.
Earlier, the 18-year-old claimed gold in Big Air and silver in slopestyle in Beijing.
*) US Treasury warns of global fallout if West sanctions Russia
US Treasury chief Janet Yellen is warning of "some global fallout" if the West sanctions Russia.
Yellen said President Joe Biden made it clear that the US intends “to impose very significant costs on Russia if they invade Ukraine".
Meanwhile, the US dismissed reports that Russia was withdrawing troops from Ukraine's border.
Instead, it’s accused Moscow of sending more soldiers as fears of an invasion grow.
*) Death toll from Brazil mudslides rises
Rescue workers are racing against time in their search for survivors after deadly flash floods hit Brazil’s Petropolis.
Over 180 firefighters and 400 soldiers are scrambling through the remains of houses that were washed away.
At least 94 bodies have been recovered so far, with 35 still unaccounted for.
*) Canadian police warn truckers to leave
A showdown may be shaping up in Ottawa’s siege between truckers protesting vaccine mandates and authorities.
Police are threatening to arrest and prosecute truckers, and also seize their vehicles and cancel their licences.
But big rigs remain parked outside Parliament, which is said to represent the movement's last stronghold.
*) EU top court clears way to cut billions of funds to Poland, Hungary The European Union's top court has cleared the way to cut billions in funding to Poland and Hungary.
The rulers in these countries are accused by the bloc of violating democratic rights.
The EU has been pouring funds into former communist countries to help develop their economies since they joined in 2004.
*) Largest blue diamond to be auctioned off
Sotheby's says it will auction off the world’s largest blue diamond in Hong Kong in April.
The auction house said it expects the 15.10 carat De Beers Cullinan Blue diamond to sell for more than $48 million.
Sotheby's says the jewel is remarkable on many levels and is the largest internally flawless step cut vivid blue diamond that’s ever been graded.
Biden: Russian attack on Ukraine 'still very much a possibility'
President Joe Biden says the US is yet to confirm if Russia has withdrawn some of its troops from Ukraine's border, adding that an invasion is still possible.
He’s warning Moscow that the US is ready to "respond decisively" if an invasion goes ahead.
His comments come after Russia said it had started withdrawing some of its forces from the Ukraine border.
*) Police stations, checkpoints targeted in Somalia's Mogadishu
Police in Somalia have thwarted an assault by al Shabab militants who attacked a police station and checkposts in Mogadishu.
Somalia's minister for internal security said the assailants targeted the suburbs of Mogadishu early Wednesday morning.
The militants were pushed back, with police saying they'll release more details on the operation later today.
*) Erdogan wraps up visit to UAE
Tuesday marked the final day of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the United Arab Emirates.
The trip was aimed at strengthening relations between the countries. Erdogan also used the occasion to deepen economic ties, as he and the crown prince signalled an end to a years' long rift between the nations.
The Turkish president also visited the Turkish pavilion Dubai Expo 2020.
*) Ex-Honduras president arrested
The former president of Honduras Juan Orlando Hernandez has been arrested on drug charges, after the US requested his extradition.
Police surrounded his home for several hours to prevent his escape while they waited for an arrest warrant to be approved by the country's supreme court.
The former president is accused of being involved in a drug-trafficking ring.
And finally …
*) Emirati singer releases song to promote Türkiye-UAE ties
Renowned Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi released a Turkish song as a gift to the people of Türkiye.
The song’s release coincided with the visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the UAE.
The artist released a four-minute video of himself performing the song on his YouTube channel.
*) Russia says there’s 'chance' of a deal with West over Ukraine
Russia has held the door open to further talks on resolving its standoff with the West.
It says some of its military drills are ending, signalling a possible easing of the crisis over Ukraine.
Russia says US has offered to conduct dialogue on limits for missile deployments in Europe and other confidence-building measures.
*) Canada invokes emergency powers to quell blockades
Canada's PM Justin Trudeau invokes emergency powers to end a truckers' protest that's disrupted life in capital Ottawa.
The demonstrations against vaccine mandates is entering its third week.
The Emergencies Act allows authorities to declare protests illegal, and police to tow away vehicles blocking roads.
*) Schools reopen In Karnataka after hijab ban protests
Schools in India's Karnataka reopen following protests over female students not being allowed to wear hijabs on campus.
Three schools in the state have banned the entry of hijab-wearing students in the past week.
Human rights advocates say the ban violates the students' rights and freedoms.
*) Türkiye, UAE sign 13 agreements to revive relations
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues his visit to the United Arab Emirates where he's signed a series of trade and bilateral agreements with the crown prince.
Over the past year, the two countries have been working to improve relations.
The countries have expressed their desire to leave disagreements in the past and forge a strong friendship.
And finally …
*) Ancient mummies of children found in Peru
Six mummified children thought to have been sacrificed hundreds of years ago, have been unearthed in a tomb near Lima.
The tiny skeletons, wrapped tightly in cloth, were found in a grave of possibly a political figure.
Archaeologists say the children were apparently sacrificed to accompany the man to the afterlife.
*) US warns Russia troops near Ukraine border tops 130,000
Ukraine's president has urged for calm amid intensified warnings of a possible Russian invasion within days, saying he had yet to see convincing evidence of that.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also invited his US counterpart Joe Biden to Kiev after the US reported that Moscow positioned more than 130,000 of its troops closer to Ukraine's borders.
Some EU airlines have cancelled flights to Kiev amid warnings of an invasion.
*) Israeli troops on home demolition mission kill Palestinian teen
Israeli troops have shot dead a 17-year-old Palestinian in the occupied West Bank.
Mohammed Abu Salah was shot and killed during clashes while trying to stop the demolition of a Palestinian home near the town of Jenin.
Palestine’s Health Ministry said at least 10 people were wounded during clashes.
*) Saudi-led coalition 'destroys' Houthi drone-control centre in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition says it destroyed a telecommunications system in Yemen's Sanaa used by Houthi rebels to control drones.
Ahead of Sunday's strike, the coalition asked civilians in Yemeni ministries and government institutions in the Houthi-controlled capital to immediately evacuate.
The coalition said Iran-backed Houthis used the system to launch hostile operations.
*) Key US-Canada bridge reopens after police clear protesters
The busiest US-Canadian border crossing reopened late Sunday after protests against Covid-19 restrictions closed it for almost a week.
The crossing normally carries 25 percent of all trade between the two countries.
Police in Windsor, Ontario, said that more than two dozen people had been peacefully arrested, several vehicles seized.
Canadian officials meanwhile held back from a crackdown on a larger protest that paralysed downtown Ottawa.
And finally …
*) New York Fashion Week kicks off amid Covid
Experimentation, play, and glitter: a coronavirus-impacted New York Fashion Week has begun with Fall/Winter 2022 shows by Proenza Schouler and Christian Cowan.
Cowan, who has dressed Lady Gaga and rappers Cardi B and Lil Nas X, presented his collection in the observatory atop the One World Trade Center skyscraper that replaced the Twin Towers.
The show had the atmosphere of a nightclub, highlighting the British designer's taste for glitz and glamour.
Canada truckers' protest grows, fuels similar campaigns abroad
Trucker-led protests against Covid-19 curbs in Canada have shut down another US border crossing.
The key Ambassador Bridge linking Ontario and Detroit is out of service. A second crossing in Alberta is blocked.
Protesters have now closed down a third border point in central Manitoba.
The two-week protest has mushroomed into an international movement, from New Zealand to France and Belgium.
*) Libya PM Dbeibah: Tobruk parliament trying to take Tripoli by force
Libya's prime minister has said that the eastern-based parliament's selection of a new government and premier is an attempt to enter Tripoli by force.
Abdul Hamid Dbeibah also said he may announce an initiative by his government to solve Libya’s political crisis.
He said he is willing to withdraw from running for the presidency to make his initiative succeed.
The east-based parliament, aligned to warlord Khalifa Haftar, has named former interior minister Fathi Bashaga to replace Dbeibah.
The UN said it still recognises Dbeibah as Libya's prime minister.
On Thursday, Dbeibah escaped unharmed from an assassination attempt when shots were fired at his car in Tripoli.
*) Russia-Ukraine talks fail to produce breakthrough
Nearly nine hours of talks between Ukraine and Russia have failed to produce a breakthrough on signing a joint document.
Ukrainian and Russian officials met in the German capital for talks on ending the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Russia said the latest round of talks with Ukraine, France and Germany fell short of any new agreement.
However, both sides have agreed to keep talking.
*) Quad allies meet to deepen bulwark against China
Top diplomats of the United States, Australia, Japan and India have opened talks in Melbourne on strengthening their Quad alliance.
The meetings are aimed at boosting cooperation across fields like information, technology and fighting Covid-19.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that even though Russia's threat to Ukraine occupies Washington right now, the longer-term challenge is China's advance.
And finally …
*) Apple aims to thwart secret AirTag tracking with tweaks
Apple has announced updates to AirTag tracking devices to prevent them from being used to secretly track people.
AirTags are designed to be affixed to things people tend to lose such as wallets and keys to track them.
But there have been allegations that AirTags are used for criminal activity, such as being secretly stuck on a car to later steal it.
Now, newer iPhone models will alert owners of an "unknown accessory detected" when they sense an unidentified AirTag in range.
*) Russia begins joint military drills with Belarus
Russia and Belarus have launched joint military drills.
This comes despite Western concerns that Moscow is plotting an escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.
Russia's defence ministry says the exercises would centre around "suppressing and repelling external aggression.”
The exercises are scheduled to continue until February 20 in Belarus.
Meanwhile, UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss is in Moscow for talks with her Russian counterpart.
She will urge the Kremlin not to attack Ukraine or face “massive consequences” from Western sanctions.
*) Libya PM Dbeibah survives 'assassination' bid
Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah has escaped unharmed from an assassination attempt.
Unidentified persons shot at his car in the capital Tripoli, media reports said.
The assailants managed to escape the scene.
The attack comes as factional wrangling over control of the government intensifies.
*) UN court orders Uganda to pay DRC $325M in war damages
The UN's top court has ordered Uganda to pay the Democratic Republic of Congo $325 million in reparations over a brutal war two decades ago.
Uganda must pay $225 million for damage to persons, $40 million for damage to property, and $60 million for damage to natural resources.
The International Court of Justice’s ruling comes after a long battle for compensation over the conflict that left thousands dead between 1998 and 2003.
*) Ford plant shuts down as Canada truck blockade hardens
Truck blockades of Canada's capital and US border crossings have forced the shutdown of a Ford plant.
The company has warned the protests against Covid-19 rules could have widespread implications for the North American auto industry.
The blockade by people mostly in pickup trucks has affected the Ambassador Bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario.
The bridge carries 25 percent of all trade between the two countries. And finally …
*) Dozens of SpaceX satellites tumbling out of orbit after solar storm
SpaceX’s newest fleet of satellites has been falling out of orbit after being struck by a solar storm.
Up to 40 of the 49 small satellites launched last week have either reentered the atmosphere and burned up, or are on the verge of doing so.
SpaceX said a geomagnetic storm last Friday made the atmosphere denser.
Ground controllers tried to save the flat-panel satellites by putting them into a type of hibernation and flying them in a way to minimise drag.
But the atmospheric pull was too great, and the satellites failed to awaken and climb to a higher orbit, according to the company.
*) Macron: Putin told me Russia won't further escalate Ukraine crisis
Emmanuel Macron has said that Vladimir Putin told him Russia would not further escalate the Ukraine crisis.
Macron's remarks on Tuesday came after the Kremlin denied reports that he and Putin struck a deal on de-escalation.
The French President and the Russian President had held a more than five-hour meeting on Monday.
And on Tuesday, Macron visited Kiev, where he attended a news conference after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
According to Macron, Putin also said there won’t be any “permanent base” or “deployment” by Russia in Belarus.
*) Top gas exporters to meet in Qatar amid Russia-Ukraine impasse
Qatar will host the biannual summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum on February 22.
Russia, Iran and Qatar are key members of the forum.
The US and Australia, two other leading exporters, are not part of the group.
The news comes at a time when Europe is worried about its gas supplies due to the Russia-Ukraine standoff.
The US has sought Qatar's help in providing emergency supplies if pipelines to Western Europe are cut due to the crisis.
*) Taliban to discuss aid, frozen assets with diplomats in Geneva
A Taliban delegation is in Geneva for a week of NGO-hosted talks on humanitarian access and human rights.
Afghanistan faces a complex situation due to past overlapping conflicts, Covid-19 and extreme weather, the Geneva Call foundation said on Tuesday.
It added that there will be discussions on the protection of civilians, healthcare and the explosive remnants of war.
The Taliban delegation will also meet with Swiss and other European officials, plus the Red Cross.
*) Iran nuclear deal 'in sight' as talks resume in Vienna
Talks to revive a deal with Iran on its contested nuclear programme have resumed in Vienna.
Officials have signalled that an agreement could be "in sight".
The negotiations were halted at the end of last month.
The resumption comes after parties in recent weeks cited progress in seeking to revive the 2015 accord.
Britain, China, France, Germany, Iran, Russia and indirectly the United States are part of the negotiations.
And finally …
*) Jane Campion's 'The Power of the Dog' leads Oscar nominations
Jane Campion's "The Power of the Dog" has led the Oscars nominations.
The gothic Western released by Netflix earned 12 nominations on Tuesday, including best director and best picture.
Sci-fi epic "Dune" landed in second place overall.
It got 10 nominations, including best picture.
Other directing slots went to Kenneth Branagh for "Belfast" and Steven Spielberg for "West Side Story" .
The 94th Academy Awards gala is scheduled for March 27.
*) International efforts to ease Russia-Ukraine tensions intensify
World leaders have been speeding up efforts to ease the Russia-Ukraine tensions.
French President Emmanuel Macron called for de-escalation as he held talks with Russia's Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin on Monday.
Putin hailed France’s role in shaping European security.
He added that he appreciates Macron's efforts to broker a settlement in the Ukraine crisis.
*) Europe in ‘most dangerous’ moment since Cold War
Europe is facing its most serious security threat since the Cold War, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has warned.
He was speaking at a joint news conference in Washington on Monday with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Borrell said they shared "a strong concern" about the situation on Ukraine's borders.
He also voiced hope for a diplomatic resolution to the Ukraine standoff with Russia.
*) Iraq presidential vote postponed indefinitely amid political deadlock
Iraq's parliament has indefinitely postponed a vote for the president after most major political blocs boycotted the session.
On Monday afternoon, only a few dozen MPs were in the chamber. The vote had been set for noon.
The sweeping no-show deepens a political crisis in the war-scarred country.
Almost four months after a general election, it still hasn't chosen a new prime minister.
It is the task of the president to formally name a prime minister from the largest bloc in parliament.
*) ‘The son of us all’: Morocco bids farewell to Rayan
Rayan Oram, a five-year-old Moroccan boy who spent five days trapped down a well, has been laid to rest.
Hundreds arrived at a cemetery near Rayan’s village in Chefchaouen province for his funeral on Monday.
"I am over 50 years old and have never seen as many people at a funeral. Rayan is the son of us all," a villager said.
The boy had fallen down a dry well last Tuesday, sparking a complex rescue operation.
On Saturday night. rescuers reached him as crowds cheered.
But the joy turned to grief when authorities announced that the boy was dead.
And finally …
*) World’s glaciers 'contain less ice than thought'
Mountain glaciers shrinking due to climate change have been found to be less voluminous than previously understood, according to researchers.
This puts millions of people who depend on them for water supply at risk.
Researchers published their findings on Monday in the journal Nature Geoscience.
The new estimate also lowers the potential contribution of glaciers to sea level rise from about 33 to 26 centimetres (or 13 to 10 inches).
*) Ukraine warns against "apocalyptic predictions"
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has warned against "apocalyptic predictions" on an imminent Russian invasion. He says his country is strong and has unprecedented international support. His statement came after US officials said Russian forces could take over Kiev within 48 hours in case of a full invasion. *) DPRK using cyberattacks to fund its nuclear programme
A UN report says cyberattacks on cryptocurrency exchanges funded North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.
The report says hackers stole more than 50 million dollars worth of digital assets between 2020 and mid-2021.
The report cites that cyberattacks remain an important revenue source for Pyongyang's nuclear programmes. *) African Union condemns wave of coups
The African Union has condemed the recent wave of coups that resulted in four member states being suspended from the bloc in one year's time.
The 55-member body held a two-day meeting to discuss a range of issues affecting Africa, including the pandemic and the conflict in Ethiopia.
Participants also discussed Israel's highly controversial observer status to the bloc.
Members states called for civilian rule to be restored in the four West African countries hit by military coups in the last 18 months.
*) Tunisia judicial watchdog rejects president’s move
Tunisia's Supreme Judicial Council has rejected the president's move to dissolve it, saying they will continue to carry out their duties.
However, hundreds of people came out to support President Kais Saied on Sunday, following his overnight announcement to dissolve the council.
He has already sacked the parliament, and the prime minister has often criticised the judiciary, accusing it of delays in ruling on corruption and terrorism cases.
The head of the body has called this latest power move illegal and warns that judicial officials won't remain silent.
*) Senegal wins Africa Cup
Senegal has won its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title after defeating Egypt in Cameroon's capital, Yaounde
The match went to penalties, after full time and extra time both ended goalless.
Mo Salah's men were hoping to lift the trophy for a record eighth time, but his Liverpool teammate, Sadio Mane, ended that dream.
He made the spot kick that sealed the deal for the Senegalese, beating The Pharoahs 4-2 on penalties.
*) Leaders of Russia, China to meet amid tensions with West over Ukraine
Chinese President Xi Jinping is set for his first face-to-face meeting with a world leader in nearly two years.
Xi will host Russia's Vladimir Putin amid tensions with the West over the Ukraine crisis.
The two leaders will meet in Beijing before releasing a joint statement reflecting their "common views" on security and other issues, says the Kremlin.
Both sides say they coordinated their positions on Ukraine during a meeting between both countries' foreign ministers.
*) Biden: Qurashi killed in northwest Syria operation
US President Joe Biden has confirmed Daesh leader Abu Ibrahim Al Hashimi al Qurashi killed himself following a raid by US Special forces in Northwest Syria.
Biden monitored the mission from the White House. He described al Qurashi's suicide as a "final act of desperate cowardice".
The Daesh leader detonated a suicide vest, which also killed other members of his family- including his two wives and one child.
Several other people are reported to have died during heavy gunfire and shelling.
*) Deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi facing new charges
Deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi is facing additional charges brought by the military.
She's remained in detention since the junta forcefully removed her and other democratically elected leaders last year.
The new charges are linked to bribery, while she's already been sentenced for six years on other charges.
*) Hundreds of migrants protest in Mexican city of Tapachula
Hundreds of migrants have been protesting in the Mexican city of Tapachula over the slow pace of visa approvals.
Many have threatened to form a new caravan heading towards the US border.
Mexican authorities have tried to stem the flow of Central American migrants amid pressure from Washington.
But migrant numbers have been growing in Mexico because of lengthy federal procedures.
And finally …
*) Winter Olympics begins with opening ceremony
The Winter Games in Beijing gets under way amid “closed loop” restrictions for participants and without international fans.
The Chinese capital is now the only city to host both the Winter and Summer games.
Covid-19 infections among personnel have spiked, but officials say the event will continue as planned.
*) Russia calls US troop deployment in Ukraine standoff 'destructive' step
With Russia refusing to pull back troops from near Ukraine's borders, the US has decided to deploy 3,000 troops to bolster NATO forces.
Russia says the move will increase military tensions and reduce the chances of a political decision on the Ukraine issue.
Intense diplomatic efforts between the West and Russia are under way to defuse tensions.
As the West looks to mount pressure on Russia, the Kremlin says it has China’s support.
*) Turkiye's Erdogan visits Ukraine
Turkiye's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit Ukraine on Thursday.
Erdogan and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will discuss possibilities for deepening cooperation and exchange views on regional and international issues.
They are also expected to sign various agreements and memoranda of understanding.
Erdogan has previously said Turkiye does not want a war between Russia and Ukraine and hopes the ongoing standoff will be resolved peacefully.
Banks can transfer aid money to Afghanistan: US
International banks can transfer money to Afghanistan for humanitarian purposes, the US has said.
Billions of dollars in Afghan central bank reserves and international aid were frozen to prevent it from falling into Taliban hands.
The United Nations and aid groups have been struggling to get enough money into the country to fund operations.
Aid groups can now make direct payments to healthcare workers and teachers in public hospitals and schools.
*) UAE destroys 'hostile' drones in its airspace The UAE says it has destroyed three drones that penetrated its airspace over unpopulated areas. The Gulf state has faced several attacks in the past few weeks, including a missile attack during a visit by Israel's president. Yemen's Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for those attacks. The US says it is sending fighter jets to assist the UAE following the missile attacks.
And finally … *) Nadal says 21 Grand Slam titles 'not enough'
Rafael Nadal has said he is still not satisfied with his 21 Grand Slam titles following his historic triumph at the Australian Open.
His victory took him to the top of the all-time men's list, and one clear of the 20 titles won by Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
"...I don't think 21 is enough to be honest. But you never know what will happen in the future," Nadal said at a press conference.
*) Putin: Russia will be dragged into war if Ukraine joins NATO US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has spoken to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov by phone.
It is the latest attempt to de-escalate the crisis over Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin says he wants talks to continue.
But he also said the United States and its allies are ignoring Russia's security concerns.
*) Landslides kill dozens in Ecuador capital At least 22 people have been killed from a massive landslide in Ecuador. Torrential rain caused extensive flooding and mudslides in the capital Quito. More than 45 people are reported injured. Clean-up operations have begun in some streets and rescue crews are searching for survivors.
*) 'Many' dead as Guinea-Bissau foils 'attack against democracy’ The president of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embalo, has said he has survived a coup attempt.
Embalo said attackers opened fire while trying to break into a government compound during a cabinet meeting.
Several security personnel in the West African nation were reportedly killed fending off the gunmen.
*) Lebanese Land transport unions call three-day strike over inflation Land Transport Unions have announced a three-day strike across Lebanon from Tuesday.
Participants are protesting surging fuel prices and demanding better working conditions.
Land transport sector employees have routinely held protests in the last couple of months.
And finally … *) NFL superstar Tom Brady retires from American football
Tom Brady has confirmed he is retiring from American football.
Brady is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in the NFL.
He is the only player to have won seven Super Bowl titles.
He played mostly for the New England Patriots but his last victory was for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
*) Russia responds to US offer over Ukraine crisis
Moscow has responded to Washington's proposal on Ukraine, the State Department said.
The Russian response comes amid US pressure to de-escalate tension on the Ukraine border.
Earlier, Russia accused the West of "whipping up tensions” during a stormy debate at the UN Security Council meeting.
The US ambassador to the UN warned Moscow’s troop build-up along its southern border poses the biggest international security threat in Europe in decades.
*) Protests mark anniversary of Myanmar military takeover
Myanmar's junta has threatened to jail anti-coup protesters joining a "silent strike" on the anniversary of the military coup.
The warnings haven't stopped a small group of protesters from gathering in Myanmar's second-biggest city, Mandalay.
Businesses and shops were shut down across the country and people stayed home to avoid possible clashes.
*) Biden to designate Qatar as 'major non-NATO ally'
US President Joe Biden has promised Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim that he will soon designate Qatar as a major non-NATO ally.
The special status is granted by Washington to close non-NATO allies that have strategic working relationship with the US military. Biden said the designation reflects "the importance” of the US’s relationship with Qatar after meeting Tamim in the White House.
*) Mali junta tells French ambassador to leave within 72 hours
The military junta in Mali has given the French ambassador 72 hours to leave the country.
The move comes after French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian called the junta illegitimate and out of control.
Mali says France’s comments were 'hostile and outrageous' and that ambassador Joel Meyer would only be allowed to return if the French government clarifies its position.
*) Thousands of Haitian homes flood after heavy rain bursts river banks
Thousands of homes have been flooded and some 2,500 families were displaced in Haiti after torrential rain caused rivers to burst their banks.
Rescue teams have begun evacuating people in high-risk zones, the civil protection authority said.
Nearly 36 hours of rain caused flooding, primarily in the north of the Caribbean country, with water filling the historic centre of the city of Cap-Haitien.
*) US lawmakers warn Russia of 'mother of all sanctions' ahead of UNSC meet
The United States has worked to ramp up diplomatic and financial pressure on Russia over Ukraine, promising to put Moscow on the defensive at the UN Security Council.
The American ambassador to the United Nations said the UNSC would press Russia hard in a Monday session to discuss its massing of troops near Ukraine and fears it is planning an invasion.
The chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Bob Menendez, said that in the event of an attack, lawmakers want Russia to face "the mother of all sanctions".
*) US seeks direct talks after North Korea tests 'most powerful' missile
The United States has urged North Korea to join direct talks about its nuclear and missile programmes after Pyongyang tested what it called “the most powerful missile since 2017”.
A senior Biden administration official told reporters the latest test was part of an "increasingly destabilising" pattern and violated UN Security Council resolutions.
The official spoke after North Korea confirmed it had tested a Hwasong-12 intermediate-range ballistic missile, state media reported.
*) UN: Over 100 former Afghan forces, officials killed since Taliban takeover
The United Nations says it has received “credible allegations” that more than 100 former members of the Afghan government and officials have been killed since the Taliban took over the country.
In a report obtained by The Associated Press, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said “more than two-thirds” of the victims were allegedly subjected to extrajudicial killings by the Taliban or its affiliates.
The killings were carried out despite the Taliban’s announcement of “general amnesties” for those affiliated with the former government and US-led coalition forces.
*) PM Costa's Socialists win re-election in Portugal
Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa has said his centre-left Socialist Party has secured a full parliamentary majority of 117-118 seats in snap general election.
At the Socialist party's campaign headquarters, supporters stood up cheering as the projected results were published.
The ballot took place on Sunday amid a surge in Covid-19 cases, with about 1.2 million people confined at home but allowed to go to polling stations to vote.
*) Nadal beats Medvedev in Australian Open, makes history with record titles
Rafael Nadal has won a record 21st Grand Slam men's title after beating Daniil Medvedev in the Australian Open final.
Nadal came out on top in the physical war of attrition to move ahead of era rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer on the all-time list of men's major winners.
It was one of the 35-year-old's greatest title victories in his 29th Grand Slam final winning his second Australian Open - 13 years after his first in 2009.
*) Biden warns Kiev of 'distinct possibility' of Russian invasion next month
US President Joe Biden warned Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that there is a “distinct possibility” Russia could take military action against Ukraine in February.
Biden warned that the US believed there was a high degree of likelihood that Russia could invade when the ground freezes and Russian forces could attack Ukrainian territory from north of Kiev.
Biden reiterated American and allied support, including recent deliveries of US military aid, and told Zelenskyy he was “exploring additional macroeconomic support to help Ukraine’s economy”.
The recent Russian build-up of tens of thousands of troops on Ukraine's borders has sparked fears of an invasion.
*) N Korea confirms missile tests, Kim praises 'important' munitions factory
North Korea has test-fired two different weapons systems this week, part of a record-breaking streak of launches, state media confirmed.
The official Korean Central News Agency said Thursday’s launch involved long-range cruise missiles flying over the East Sea, and hitting "the target island 1,800 km away".
Pyongyang has conducted six weapons tests in January, including hypersonic missiles, as it doubles down on Kim's military-boosting plans and ignores US offers of talks.
*) Turkish Cypriot govt slams UNSC for extending Cyprus mission
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus has blasted the UN Security Council for extending the international peacekeeping mission on the long-divided island for six more months.
The Prime Ministry of the TRNC called the UN decision a "violation of the UN's own principles and rules" because the international body failed to obtain the consent of the Turkish Cypriots.
Turkiye also called the UN decision "contrary" to the world body's rules.
*) Military promises normalcy in Burkina Faso when 'conditions are right'
Burkina Faso's new military leader Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba has claimed that the West African country will return to constitutional order "when conditions are right".
Damiba also promised to retake control of areas witnessing years of uprising while speaking for the first time on national television since leading a mutiny that ousted President Roch Marc Kabore earlier this week.
"When the conditions are right, according to the deadline that our people will define in all sovereignty, I commit to a return to a normal constitutional order," Damiba said.
And finally …
*) Qatar, Turkiye, Taliban agree on 'key issues' over Kabul airport management
Qatar, Turkiye, and the Taliban-led interim government in Afghanistan have agreed on "several key issues" over how to manage and operate Kabul's international airport, the landlocked country's main air link to the world.
The meeting in Doha came as a continuation of previous talks, the latest round of meetings which took place in Kabul last week. The sides will have a final round of negotiations next week.
In late December, Turkiye and Qatar had agreed to jointly operate the Kabul International Airport in Afghanistan on the basis of equal partnership.
*) US rejects Russia demand on Ukraine, offers ‘diplomatic path’ out of crisis
The United States has rejected Russia's key demand to bar Ukraine from NATO, reiterating its belief that Moscow is ready to invade, but it set out a diplomatic path to address the crisis in eastern Europe.
“NATO's door is open, remains open, and that is our commitment," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, adding that allied military deployments in Eastern Europe are nonnegotiable.
There was no immediate response from Russia but Russian officials have warned that Moscow would quickly take “retaliatory measures” if the US and its allies reject its demands.
*) UN urges nations to release frozen assets, increase aid to Afghanistan
The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged nations to urgently boost humanitarian aid for millions of Afghans living in “a frozen hell” and release nearly $9 billion in frozen assets.
“Time is of the essence,” and liquidity must be immediately restored to the Afghan economy to pull it back from the brink of collapse, the UN chief added.
He said that possible solutions are freeing up the country’s frozen currency reserves, re-engaging with its Central Bank and finding other ways to inject money, including allowing international funds.
*) North Korea fires two more missiles in latest testing blitz
North Korea has fired two suspected ballistic missiles, marking its sixth weapons test this month in one of the most intense spates of launches on record.
The short-range ballistic missiles were reportedly fired from the Hamhung city area towards the East Sea from around 2300 GMT, flying 190 kilometres at an altitude of 20km.
North Korea has not fired this many missiles in a month in decades, and some suggest this marks the most recorded missile launches by Pyongyang in a month.
The barrage could be part of North Korea's regular military training, or linked to ongoing celebrations of Kim's decade in power or upcoming domestic anniversaries.
*) Erdogan sees warming of Turkiye-Israel ties with Israeli President Herzog's visit
Israeli President Isaac Herzog will pay an official visit to Turkiye in February in a major step towards repairing fragile relations between both countries.
"The visit could pave the way for a new era in Israel-Turkiye relations," President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, adding that Ankara is ready to work with Tel Aviv in all fields, including natural gas.
Ties between Ankara and Tel Aviv had nosedived during ex-Israel prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rule, who Erdogan called "unfriendly" towards Turkiye.
And finally …
*) Object found in the Milky Way surprises astronomers
Australian researchers have discovered a strange spinning object in the Milky Way that is unlike anything astronomers have ever seen.
The object, first spotted by a university student, releases a huge burst of radio energy three times each hour, pulsing every 18.18 minutes.
While there are other objects in the universe that switch on and off, 18.18 minutes is a frequency that has never been observed before.
Researchers are now working to understand what the object is. So far, they have been able to establish that the object is about 4,000 light-years from Earth, is incredibly bright and has an extremely strong magnetic field.
*) Ukraine tells citizens 'sleep well' as US warns Russia ally Belarus
Ukraine has sought to reassure the nation that an invasion from neighbouring Russia is not imminent even as its leaders acknowledged the threat is real.
Speaking in the second televised speech to the nation in as many days, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Ukrainians not to panic.
He said "we are strong enough to keep everything under control and derail any attempts at destabilisation".
*) Taliban praises meeting with Western diplomats in Norway
The Taliban has said three days of discussions by its delegates with Western diplomats in Norway went "very well", while the latter said they linked humanitarian aid to Afghanistan to an improvement in human rights.
Acting Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the Taliban government will do "its best to protect Afghanistan from any sorts of problems, attract more assistance".
The final day of the Taliban's first official trip to Europe since returning to power in August, the group held talks behind closed doors with several Western diplomats.
*) Thousands march for aboriginal rights as Australia marks national day
Thousands have rallied against the mistreatment of Indigenous people across Australia as citizenship ceremonies take place to mark the country's national day.
Many protesters at rallies across cities dressed in black to mourn the day, with some carrying the Aboriginal flag and "change the date" signs.
Some protests were organised online amid concerns of surging Covid-19 cases.
*) Houthi rebels 'lose' Harib district to UAE-backed militia
Yemen's Houthi rebels have been expelled from a key battleground district by UAE-trained Giants Brigade fighters, the militia claimed.
The Iran-backed Houthis lost Harib district south of Marib, the government's last northern stronghold, which they have been fighting to seize for months.
The Giants Brigade said "hundreds were killed and wounded on both sides" in battles that lasted for more than two weeks.
*) 'Resurrection: Ertugrul' star dies from lung cancer
Prominent Turkish actor Ayberk Pekcan, also known as Artuk Bey in the popular Turkish series 'Resurrection: Ertugrul', has passed away due to lung cancer.
Pekcan had been struggling with cancer for a while.
Ayberk Pekcan, who took part in movies, theatres and TV series, had been receiving treatment in Mersin, a province in the south of Turkiye.
*) NATO deploys ships, jets to eastern Europe in Ukraine crisis
Tensions over the threat of Russia invading Ukraine are rising as NATO allies put forces on standby and sent ships and jets to bolster Europe's eastern defences.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the alliance is ready to respond to any security threat and is reinforcing its eastern front.
Stoltenberg pointed to Denmark sending a frigate and warplanes to the Baltic states, Spain bolstering naval deployments and the Netherlands putting "ship and land-based units on standby".
*) Military seizes power in Burkina Faso
Mutinous soldiers have announced they are in control of Burkina Faso after taking the president hostage following a day of gunbattles in the capital.
The soldiers declared on state television that the government and parliament were dissolved and the constitution suspended.
Burkina Faso's military, with support from the public, has been unhappy with how the government has handled a spike in militancy in the country.
*) Syria's displaced hit by brutal snowstorm
Many of Syria's nearly three million internally displaced people face dire winter conditions with a brutal snowstorm hammering the region, the United Nations has warned.
The UN is urging the international community to do more to protect the Syrian IDPs before it's too late.
Mark Cutts, the UN deputy regional humanitarian coordinator for Syria, says the conditions are "absolutely unacceptable."
*) Colombia kills top commander in 'blow' to FARC rebels
The commander of a rebel splinter group in Colombia, that rejected a 2016 peace deal, has been killed in a clash with the military.
President Ivan Duque announced in a statement that Euclides Espana –– also known as Jhonier –– had been "neutralised."
"This is one of the greatest blows that has been dealt [to] FARC dissidents," the president said in a public statement.
*) Deadly stampede hits African Cup football game in Cameroon
Cameroon's progress at the African Cup of Nations was overshadowed by a stampede outside the stadium that killed at least six people and wounded 40 others.
The crush happened as crowds attempted to reach Olembe Stadium in Yaounde as Cameroon beat Comoros 2-1 to reach the quarterfinals.
Naseri Paul Biya, governor of the central region of Cameroon, said there could be more casualties.
*) UAE intercepts 'Houthi ballistic missiles' over Abu Dhabi
The United Arab Emirates has intercepted two ballistic missiles that it said were fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting the capital Abu Dhabi, state-run news agency reported.
"The remnants of the intercepted ballistic missiles fell in separate areas around Abu Dhabi," the WAM news agency reported.
The Emirates "is ready to deal with any threats and takes all necessary measures to protect the state from all attacks", WAM quoted UAE Defence Ministry as saying.
*) US asks diplomats' families to depart Ukraine over Russia threats
The United States has ordered the families of its diplomats in the Ukrainian capital Kiev to leave the country "due to the continued threat of Russian military action".
Washington also authorised the "voluntary" departure of its embassy employees and urged US citizens in the Eastern European country to "consider departing now using commercial or other privately available transportation options".
The security situation around Ukraine''s borders, in Russia-occupied Crimea and in Russia-controlled eastern Ukraine, are unpredictable and can deteriorate with little notice, said the statement.
*) Taliban and Afghan civil society 'break the ice' in Norway
A meeting between the Taliban and Afghan civil society members has served as an "icebreaker" in Norway on the eve of talks between Taliban members and Western diplomats.
"It was a positive icebreaking meeting," feminist activist Jamila Afghani said.
“The Taliban displayed goodwill. They listened patiently and responded to most of our concerns. Let's see what their actions will be, based on their words," Afghani said.
*) Burkina Faso denies military takeover after heavy gunfire heard at bases
Burkina Faso's government has denied that the army had seized control of the country after exchanges of gunfire took place at multiple army barracks, including two in the capital.
"Information on social media would have people believe there was an army takeover," a government spokesperson said in a statement.
"The government, while recognising the validity of shootings in some barracks, denies this information and calls on the population to remain calm" the statement said.
*) ‘Spider-Man’ becomes sixth highest grossing film of all time globally
After spending one weekend in second place, “Spider-Man: No Way Home” has proved it still has some fight left.
Sony's superhero juggernaut swung back to first place in its sixth weekend in theatres and became the sixth highest grossing film of all time.
The film topped the North American charts with $14.1 million, according to studio estimates.
Globally, it's now grossed nearly $1.7 billion, passing the total earnings of both “Jurassic World" and “The Lion King”.
*) ‘No minor incursion’: Biden clarifies comments on Russia, Ukraine tensions
US President Joe Biden said any Russian troop movements across Ukraine’s border would constitute an invasion, and that Moscow would “pay a heavy price” for such an action.
The statement was the latest US effort to clear up confusion over an earlier suggestion by the US president that a "minor incursion" could invite a lesser response.
“I’ve been absolutely clear with President Putin, he has no misunderstanding. Any, any assembled Russian units move across the Ukrainian border, that is an invasion,” Biden said.
"Let there be no doubt at all, that if Putin makes this choice, Russia will pay a heavy price," the US president added.
*) China, Russia block US bid to impose UN sanctions on North Koreans
China and Russia blocked a US push to impose United Nations sanctions on five North Koreans in response to recent missile launches by Pyongyang.
The six-month block will hold off sanctions levied against North Koreans linked to the country's ballistic missile program.
The United States quickly expressed its displeasure at the block, with ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield saying any opposition to sanctions gives Pyongyang “a blank check".
*) Internet down in Yemen after Saudi-led air strike on telecom building
Yemen has lost its connection to the internet nationwide after Saudi-led air strikes targeted a site in the contested city of Hudaida, plunging the war-torn nation offline.
The air strike was reportedly on the TeleYemen site in Hudaida, which has a monopoly on the country's internet, and caused several injuries and deaths.
The Saudi-led coalition battling Houthi rebels acknowledged carrying out air strikes around Hudaida's port, but did not immediately acknowledge striking a telecommunication target.
*) Ghana explosion kills more than dozen, destroys 500 buildings
At least 17 people have been killed and nearly 60 injured in an explosion that devastated part of a town in western Ghana after a truck carrying explosives collided with a motorcycle.
Officials said the blast in the southwestern Apiate area between the towns of Bogoso and Bawdie levelled 500 buildings.
Francis Abeiku Yankah, the coordinator of the National Disaster Management Organisation for Prestea Huni-Valley district, reported the complete devastation of the Apiate community.
And finally …
*) Turkiye to help build El Salvador its first satellite
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele has said Turkiye will help the Latin American country build its first satellite while both sides signed six deals during his first visit to Turkiye.
Bukele is meeting various Turkish defence and technology companies and is keen to send his country's first satellite into space with Turkish technology.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the six agreements covered defence, trade, tech, economy, education and diplomacy, while President Bukele said the agreements are "only for starters".
Turkiye will also help El Salvador build a dry canal, ports and a power plant.
*) US warns of Russia's incursion into Ukraine as tensions soar
US President Joe Biden has predicted that Russian President Vladimir Putin will make a move into Ukraine, but he thinks the Kremlin does not want a full-scale war with Kiev.
Biden warned a full-scale invasion would trigger a massive response. He suggested that the US would limit Russia's access to the international banking system in case of a full-scale war with Ukraine, which would "be a disaster for Russia."
Russians might ultimately prevail, but their losses are "going to be heavy," Biden added.
*) North Korea hints at resuming nuclear, long-range missile tests
North Korea has hinted it could resume nuclear and long-range weapons tests as it prepares for "a long-term confrontation" with Washington.
When the US imposed fresh sanctions last week, Pyongyang said it was a "provocation" and ramped up conventional weapons tests, vowing a "stronger and certain" response to efforts to rein it in.
"The hostile policy and military threat by the US have reached a danger line that cannot be overlooked anymore," a report on a meeting of the country's Politburo in state media said.
*) Pentagon releases first video of Kabul air strike that killed civilians
The Pentagon has released video footage of a US drone strike in Kabul that killed 10 civilians in the final hours of the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan.
It marks the first public release of video footage of the August 29 strike, which the Pentagon initially defended but later called a tragic mistake.
The footage shows the scene of the strike prior to, during and after a missile struck a civilian car in a courtyard on a residential street.
The botched strike killed 10 civilians, including aid worker Zemari Ahmadi, his relatives and children.
*) Turkiye to run 'charity train' to Afghanistan as hunger worsens
Turkiye will send a "charity train" to Afghanistan carrying emergency goods, as the country faces a harsh winter with a deteriorating economy that has plunged millions into poverty.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the train, carrying 700 tonnes of food, clothing, and health and emergency goods, will be sent with the support of 10 NGOs coordinated by Turkiye's disaster agency AFAD.
The move comes in contrast to Western nations, led by the United States, that have frozen billions of dollars worth of Afghan banking assets and cut off development funding.
*) Aid begins to arrive in tsunami-hit Tonga as main airport opens
Aircraft carrying much-needed humanitarian supplies have begun arriving in tsunami-affected Tonga, as the South Pacific island finally made contact with the rest of the world after being hit.
The first flight carrying aid to Tonga was able to make it to the Pacific nation's main airport, once the runway was cleared of volcanic ash after five days.
Australia and New Zealand have sent humanitarian supplies including temporary shelters, generators, hygiene kits, and communications equipment to the tsunami-hit pacific nation.
*) Russia amasses 127,000 troops in 'almost complete' build-up
Russia has reportedly deployed more than 127,000 troops and "almost completed" its build-up, Ukraine has said, raising fears of an imminent invasion of the eastern European country.
The assessment said the current situation in the region is "difficult" and added that it believes Moscow is "trying to split and weaken the European Union and NATO".
Ukraine's assessment also said that Russia was using its ally Belarus to "expand aggression" against Kiev.
*) Israel demolishes Palestinian home in Sheikh Jarrah
Israeli police have destroyed the home of a Palestinian family in the sensitive occupied East Jerusalem neighbourhood of Sheikh Jarrah.
Before dawn, Israeli officers went to the home of the Salhiya family, according to a video posted online by the police on Wednesday.
Israeli police had created a barrier around the Salhiya home, blockading dozens of Palestinians on the inside before the demolition, according to local sources.
*) EU condemns violence against anti-coup protesters in Sudan
The European Union’s foreign policy chief has said Sudan’s military rulers have shown an unwillingness to negotiate a peaceful settlement to the country's ongoing crisis.
EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said on Tuesday that repeated calls for Sudanese authorities to refrain from violence against protesters “have fallen on deaf ears”.
His statement comes a day after security forces opened fire on anti-coup protesters in the capital, killing at least seven people.
*) Houthi general among civilians killed in Saudi-led strikes in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition has killed nearly two dozen people in air strikes on Yemen's rebel-held capital after an attack by Houthi rebels on the United Arab Emirates sent regional tensions soaring.
Coalition strikes around the city killed a total of about 20 people, said the deputy foreign minister for the Houthi administration, which holds much of northern Yemen.
Among those killed in coalition air strikes was a high-ranking Houthi military official, including his wife and son.
And finally …
*) Arabic oud icon seeks to 'change soul' of Iraq with music
Long uprooted from his native Iraq, Naseer Shamma, an icon of the Arabic oud, returned home to help rekindle the flame of Iraqi music, snuffed out by decades of conflict.
"When you are in your own country, you feel very high emotions with the audience," the master string player said.
"Now we're playing to help education. My new project is called 'education first'. We need to help Iraqi schools," Shamma added.
*) Sudan anti-coup rally turns deadly as security forces fire 'live bullets'
Sudanese security forces have killed seven protesters among thousands rallying against last year's military coup.
Three protesters "were killed by live bullets" by "militias of the putschist military council," anti-coup medics said on the Facebook page of Khartoum state's Health Ministry.
The independent Central Committee of Sudan Doctors said four more demonstrators were killed "during a massacre by the coup authorities who were seeking to disperse the protests."
*) China calls for end to 'Cold-War mentality' in veiled swipe at US
Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that confrontation between major powers could have "catastrophic consequences" in a speech to world leaders at an all-virtual Davos forum.
He presented himself as the defender of multilateralism and also gave sober warnings for the future as relations between major powers plunge.
"Our world today is far from the tranquil, rhetoric that stokes hatred and prejudice abound," he said, according to an official translation of the speech which was streamed online.
*) Turkiye hands over hundreds of housing units for Albania quake victims
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has handed over more than 500 housing units a Turkish agency built for earthquake victims in Albania.
"We are crowning the friendship between Turkiye and Albania with the handover of these houses," Erdogan said.
A total of 522 housing units, worth about $48 million, have been built for the northwestern town of Lac, which was struck by a deadly quake in November 2019.
*) Winter storm halts motorists, grounds planes in US and Canada
A major winter storm has blanketed a swathe of North America in snow as it sliced up the US east coast into Canada, disrupting travel and cutting power to thousands of homes.
About 120,000 American customers were without power, with the largest concentration in the mid-Atlantic state of West Virginia and North and South Carolina and Georgia.
Large parts of the Canadian provinces of Quebec and Ontario remained under winter storm or blizzard warnings, according to a Canadian government website.
*) Lewandowski wins FIFA best player vote ahead of Messi and Salah
Robert Lewandowski was voted the best men’s player in the world, retaining the FIFA award he won last year despite being left off the ballot paper filed by runner-up Lionel Messi.
The Bayern Munich forward overturned the result last month of the Ballon d’Or prize where he placed second behind Messi. Mohamed Salah of Liverpool placed third.
“I am very honored to win this trophy,” Lewandowski said on a video link from Munich. The trophy was presented by club officials during the online ceremony hosted at FIFA headquarters in Zurich.
*) US accuses Russia of ‘preparing sabotage’ to justify Ukraine invasion
The United States accused Russia of sending saboteurs trained in explosives to stage a pretext to invade Ukraine, where government websites were knocked out in a cyber attack linked to Moscow.
The allegations and incident mark a new escalation in tensions over Ukraine, just after a week of talks between the West and Russia that sought a diplomatic solution.
Detailing intelligence findings, the White House said that Russia was "laying the groundwork to have the option of fabricating a pretext for invasion" by blaming Ukraine.
*) Military flights assess damage from Pacific volcano
New Zealand and Australia sent military surveillance flights to Tonga to assess the damage caused by a huge undersea volcanic eruption in the Pacific island nation.
A towering ash cloud had prevented earlier flights. New Zealand hopes to send essential supplies, including much-needed drinking water, on a military transport plane.
Communications with Tonga remained extremely limited. Underwater communications cables were likely severed in the eruption and repairs could take weeks.
*) Lebanon slams Israeli media reports of gas deal as 'completely untrue'
The Lebanese government denied media reports about an agreement to be supplied with gas from Israel.
Israeli media reported the country had reached an agreement with the United States to supply Lebanon with gas.
However, the Lebanese Ministry of Energy and Water described the Israeli media report in a statement as “totally and completely untrue."
*) Sudanese doctors protest attacks by security forces in anti-coup rallies
Sudanese doctors protested against violent attacks by security forces targeting medical personnel during pro-democracy rallies following last year's military coup.
"During every protest they fire tear gas inside the hospital where I work," one doctor, Houda Ahmad, said at the rally in Khartoum.
"They even attack us inside the intensive care unit," she added at the rally, where medical personnel carried pictures of colleagues they said had been killed.
*) Prince's estate valued over $156 million after six-year legal tussle
The six-year legal battle over pop superstar Prince’s estate has ended, meaning the process of distributing the artist's wealth could begin next month.
The Internal Revenue Service and the estate’s administrator agreed to value Prince's estate over $156 million, a figure that the artist's heirs have also accepted.
The valuation dwarfs the estate’s administrator’s earlier $82.3 million appraisal. The Internal Revenue Service in 2020 had valued the estate at $163.2 million.
Prince, who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2016, did not leave a will.
*) Russia considering sending troops to Latin America if tensions with West rise
Russia has raised the stakes in its dispute with the West over Ukraine and NATO expansion after a top diplomat refused to rule out a military deployment to Latin America if tensions with the United States and its allies escalate.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said he could "neither confirm nor exclude" the possibility of Russia sending military assets to Cuba and Venezuela.
US national security adviser Jake Sullivan dismissed the statements about a possible Russian deployment to Latin America as "bluster in the public commentary".
*) US arrests far-right militia chief for role in Capitol invasion
Stewart Rhodes, the founder and leader of the far-right Oath Keepers militia group, has been arrested and charged with seditious conspiracy in the attack on the US Capitol.
10 other people were also charged in connection with the attack on January 6, 2021, when members of the extremist group raided Washington to stop the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory.
These are the first charges of seditious conspiracy that the US Department of Justice has brought in connection with the attack led by supporters of former president Donald Trump.
*) UN calls for release of Afghanistan funds to avoid destitution
The United Nations has urged the United States and the World Bank to unfreeze Afghan funds, locked since the Taliban's return to power.
"We must ... rapidly inject liquidity into the economy and avoid a meltdown that would lead to poverty, hunger and destitution for millions," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.
He called on Washington to take the lead in helping the country avoid a collapse "because the major part of the world financial system works in dollars".
Washington seized nearly $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank. The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank also suspended activities in the country.
*) North Korean hackers stole $400m in cryptocurrency in 2021
North Korea launched at least seven attacks on cryptocurrency platforms that extracted nearly $400 million worth of digital assets last year, blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis reported.
"From 2020 to 2021, the number of North Korean-linked hacks jumped from four to seven, and the value extracted from these hacks grew by 40 percent," the report read.
Pyongyang was accused of using stolen funds to support its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes to circumvent sanctions by a United Nations panel of experts.
North Korea does not respond to media inquiries, but has previously released statements denying allegations of hacking.
And finally …
*) Queen Elizabeth strips Prince Andrew of military roles and HRH title
Queen Elizabeth II's second son Prince Andrew, often called the Queen's "favourite son", has been effectively stripped of his position in royal life as he faces a US civil case for sexual assault.
He will no longer use the "His Royal Highness" title, which designates senior members of the royal family, in any capacity.
Andrew faces a US civil case for sexual assault brought by Virginia Giuffre who said he sexually assaulted her in 2001 when she was 17. She said she was delivered to Andrew by Jeffrey Epstein
Andrew strenuously denies the allegation, claiming to have no memory of meeting Giuffre.
🇺🇸🇰🇵 US hits North Korean officials with sanctions after missile test
🇷🇺🇺🇦 NATO and Russia cite differences on Ukraine crisis as talks end inconclusively
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan's President Tokayev orders rebuilding of riot-hit Almaty
🇾🇪 War in Yemen continues to fuel hunger and economic collapse
🦠 Omicron patients have less hospitalisation and death risk
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
🇷🇺🇺🇸Russia, US take tough stands ahead of more talks on Ukraine
🇭🇰Hong Kong to pass law outlawing more 'national security' crimes
🇰🇵North Korea reportedly test fires another hypersonic missile
🇰🇿Kazakhstan's Tokayev faults mentor for creating 'layer of wealthy people'
🎾🇦🇺Djokovic clarifies movements, Australian visa saga continues
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Kazakhstan: 'Attempted coup' defeated, CSTO troops to leave 'soon’
Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has said his country has defeated what he called an “attempted coup d'etat” during historic violence last week.
He blamed foreign militants for the violence and promised foreign troops deployed to stabilise his country will vacate "soon".
In a video conference with leaders from several ex-Soviet countries, Tokayev said "armed militants" had used the backdrop of protests to try to seize power.
Last week’s protests were sparked by a fuel price hike.
*) US shatters world record with 1.13 million new Covid cases
The United States has reported at least 1.13 million new coronavirus infections, the highest daily total of any country in the world.
The surge comes as the spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant showed no signs of slowing in the country.
Meanwhile, flight cancellations, new lockdowns, and border restrictions in other parts of the world are becoming a norm again as the pandemic continues to spread.
*) Russia, US agree to further talks on Ukraine with no major breakthrough
Russia has told the United States that it had no plans to invade Ukraine, as the two sides agreed to more efforts to keep tensions from turning into a full-blown confrontation.
After more than seven hours of negotiations in Geneva on Monday, the Russian and US negotiators both offered to keep talking, though there was no sign of a major breakthrough.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said he had assured his US counterpart, Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, that those fears were unfounded.
*) North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile amid stalled talks
North Korea has fired what appeared to be a ballistic missile into its eastern sea, its second weapons launch in a week.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff on Tuesday said North Korea likely fired a single ballistic missile from an inland area to its eastern sea.
He said that the South Korean and US militaries were analysing the launch.
Japan’s Prime Minister’s Office and Defense Ministry also said the weapon was possibly a ballistic missile.
And finally …
*) Djokovic free in Australia but deportation threat still exists
Tennis superstar Novak Djokovic trained at the Australian Open venue on Tuesday in search of a record 21st Grand Slam.
But his dream hangs in the balance as the government pondered cancelling his visa, again.
The world number one had scored a stunning courtroom victory the day before, overturning the Australian government's decision to cancel his visa on Covid-19 vaccination grounds.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) More than 160 killed in violent Kazakhstan protests
At least 164 people, including a 4-year-old girl, were killed in Kazakhstan in a week of protests.
The violence marked the worst unrest since the former Soviet republic gained independence 30 years ago.
The office of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said on Sunday that order has been restored in the country, with authorities regaining control of all buildings that were taken over by the protesters.
About 5,800 people were detained during the unrest.
*) US building fire kills more than a dozen, including children
Nineteen people, including nine children, have been killed in an apartment fire in New York City in what is being dubbed as the one of the city's worst blazes in recent memory.
Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said Sunday's fire "started in a malfunctioning electric space heater" in an apartment unit spanning the second and third floors of the 19-story building.
More than five dozen people were injured and 13 people were still in critical condition in the hospital.
*) Thousands left homeless as blaze hits Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh
In Southern Bangladesh, a fire swept through a Rohingya refugee camp, destroying tents and leaving thousands homeless.
Sunday’s fire burnt about 1,200 houses, leaving more than 5,000 people homeless.
There were no immediate reports of casualties in the blaze that hit Camp 16 in Cox's Bazar.
*) Aid groups halt work in Ethiopia's Tigray after air strike
Aid organisations have suspended their operations in an area of northwest Tigray in Ethiopia, said the UN agency for humanitarian affairs.
The suspension comes a day after 56 civilians were reportedly killed in the area by an air strike over the weekend.
The agency did not give further details.
Much of Tigray remains cut off from the world, with limited communications for humanitarian workers who have found their work severely constrained by a months-long government blockade.
And finally …
*) 'Power of the Dog', 'West Side Story' win top prizes at untelevised Golden Globes
"The Power of the Dog" and "West Side Story" have won top film prizes at an untelevised Golden Globes that was largely ignored by Hollywood.
Jane Campion's dark Western "The Power of the Dog" became the second film directed by a woman to win the best drama prize.
Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story" remake claimed best comedy or musical, as well as lead and supporting actress prizes for stars Rachel Zegler and Ariana DeBose.
*) Peacekeepers of Russia-led military bloc begin Kazakhstan mission
Russian paratroopers have been deployed to Kazakhstan for a peacekeeping operation, along with troops from four other former Soviet republics.
The deployment came in response to an appeal from the president of Kazakhstan to help stabilise the country amid a wave of protests sparked by a fuel price rise.
Reports of casualties continue to emerge from the oil-rich country.
The media reported dozens of protesters killed while the Kazakh interior ministry said 26 "armed criminals" had been "liquidated".
*) Trump's Twitter alternative TRUTH Social to be launched next month
Former US president Donald Trump's new media venture plans to launch its social media app Truth Social on February 21st.
TRUTH Social, the Trump Media & Technology Group alternative to Twitter, offers features to follow other people and trending topics.
Its message equivalent to a tweet will be dubbed "truth".
The app's launch would come 13 months after Facebook and Twitter banned Trump over his encouraging supporters to participate in the January 6th Capitol attack.
*) Banned from Olympics, North Korea blames Covid and 'hostile forces'
A letter from North Korea to China blamed "hostile forces" and Covid-19 risks for not being able to attend the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Pyongyang also accused the United States of trying to prevent the Games' success.
But, North Korea had already been suspended from the International Olympic Committee until the end of 2022 in September for refusing to send a team to the Tokyo Summer Games.
*) Almost 100,000 children lost parents to Covid in Peru
Covid-19 has killed at least one parent or primary caregiver for nearly 100,000 children in Peru, its government has reported.
"Unfortunately our country has almost 98,000 children who lost their father, mother or guardian during the pandemic," said Peru's Minister of Women Anahi Durand, citing figures published in the medical journal The Lancet.
Peru has the world's highest coronavirus death rate, with more than 6,000 Peruvians per million having died from the disease.
And finally …
*) Djokovic family lashes out at his treatment in Australia
Novak Djokovic's family and fans have railed against the tennis superstar's shock detention in Australia.
His father Srdjan Djokovic said his son was the victim of a "political witch hunt" and "corona fascism", and should be freed.
Fans also chanted "free Novak" outside Melbourne's Park Hotel which now serves as a detention centre.
The vaccine-sceptic tennis ace was detained on arrival in Australia, and his visa was revoked, earlier this week due to Covid-19 restrictions.
*) Fuel protests turn deadly in Kazakhstan
Dozens of protesters have been killed in Kazakhstan overnight as riots over fuel prices resumed for the fifth day.
In the main city of Almaty, armoured personnel carriers and ground troops could be seen in the main square after a night of deadly clashes.
A Russia-led military alliance is sending "peacekeeping forces" after President Tokayev asked for help to quell protests.
The White House and United Nations urged Kazakh authorities to show "restraint" in dealing with civil unrest.
*) North Korea claims second successful hypersonic missile test
North Korea has successfully tested a hypersonic missile in the first major weapons test by the nuclear-armed nation this year.
The North Korean state news agency reported a second test of what Pyongyang claims are hypersonic gliding missiles.
The United States, Japan and Canada condemned the test which came amid stalled denuclearisation talks
*) Military bases hosting US troops in Iraq and Syria come under attack
Iraqi military bases hosting US troops in Iraq's western Anbar province and the capital of Baghdad have been hit by rockets.
In Syria, eight rounds of indirect fire landed inside a base with members of the US-led coalition.
No casualties were reported.
The attacks began on Monday on the anniversary of a US air strike that killed Iran's General Qasem Soleimani.
*) Novak Djokovic denied entry to Australia, has visa cancelled
Australia has denied entry to Novak Djokovic and cancelled his visa because he failed to meet the requirements for an exemption to Covid vaccination rules.
The top-ranked tennis player announced on Tuesday that he had “exemption permission” and landed in Australia the next day.
But Australian border authorities didn't accept the exemption or let him in.
“The rule is very clear,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison told a news conference, adding that Djokovic didn’t have a valid medical exemption.
And finally …
*) Turkiye showcases all-electric 'smart' car in Las Vegas event
Turkiye's technology brand TOGG has unveiled the first Turkish ‘smart’ car, currently known as the "Transition Concept Smart Device".
The electric fastback can be integrated with smart cities around the world.
The all-electric vehicle was showcased at the world's largest Consumer Electronics Show, in the US city of Las Vegas.
*) Kazakhstan government resigns after violent protests over fuel price
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has accepted the government's resignation after mass protests over fuel price increase.
Tokayev named Alikhan Smailov as acting prime minister.
A state of emergency was declared in Almaty and the oil-producing western Mangistau province.
The protests began in Mangistau province on Sunday following the lifting of price caps on liquefied petroleum gas, after which its price more than doubled.
*) North Korea launches possible ballistic missile into sea
North Korea has fired what appeared to be a ballistic missile into the sea, in the first such launch by Pyongyang this year.
The latest launch came after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un vowed to further boost the country's military capability last week.
The development signals that Pyongyang isn’t interested in rejoining denuclearisation talks anytime soon.
*) US reports record one million Covid cases in single day
Nearly two years into the pandemic, the United States has become the first country to report one million coronavirus cases in a single day.
President Joe Biden addressed the nation, telling the public not to be afraid. He instead urged them to be vigilant and get vaccinated
Meanwhile, a lockdown has been declared in the Chinese city of Yuzhou after it reported some new coronavirus cases.
*) Palestinian prisoner ends 140-day hunger strike after deal with Israel
A Palestinian prisoner who was on hunger strike for over 140 days to protest being imprisoned without charge has agreed to end his fast.
Hisam Abu Hawash, a 40-year-old father of five, agreed to end his strike after reaching a deal with Israel to be released next month.
Abu Hawash is the latest of several Palestinians to go on hunger strike to protest being held under “administrative detention,” a controversial measure Israel says is needed for security.
And finally …
*) Djokovic criticised for medical exemption to play at Australian Open
World tennis number one Novak Djokovic has been granted exemption from getting vaccinated against Covid-19 to participate in the Australian Open.
The exemption drew criticism from some including Seven-times Grand Slam doubles champion Jamie Murray.
Murray said it would have been difficult for him to get a similar exemption if he were in the Serbian's place.
🇭🇰 Hong Kong activist behind Tiananmen vigil convicted
🇨🇴 Clashes between Colombia rebels kill more than two dozen
🇭🇹 Haiti PM survives weekend assassination bid
🇵🇰 Pakistan: Fencing won't stop along border with Afghanistan
💻 Apple becomes first US company to hit $3 trillion market value
And that's your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
🇸🇩 Sudan’s Prime Minister, Hamdok resigns amid protests
❄️ Snow storms and pandemic ground flights cause delay in holiday's end
🇺🇦 🇺🇸 Biden reassures Ukraine's Zelenskyy over Russia’s military buildup
🇵🇸 Hunger-striking Palestinian detainee 'in critical condition'
🇭🇰 Hong Kong news outlet to halt operations amid crackdown on dissent
And that's your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Biden, Putin discuss Moscow’s military build-up, NATO
US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin have spoken by phone. The Kremlin requested the call to ease tensions between the countries. The leaders discussed Russia's deployment of nearly 100-thousand troops near its border with Ukraine, a country Russia invaded in 2014. Moscow wants guarantees from the US that it will never allow Ukraine into NATO, a guarantee the US says it can't give. But Washington has signalled it's open to closer security coordination in the run-up to talks set for next month. ) Omicron cases skyrocket globally as New Year celebrations approach Global coronavirus infections have hit a record high over the past week, and the next 24 to 36 hours are going to be important. The number of daily new Covid-19 cases worldwide crossed one million for the first time on Thursday since the pandemic began two years ago. Experts say the highly transmissible Omicron variant is responsible for the latest surge in cases. Because of the danger of large public gatherings, Paris and London have already cancelled their usual New Year's Eve firework displays. New York is going ahead with a scaled back event in Times Square. ) Tens of thousands ordered to evacuate in Colorado amid wildfires
At least 31-thousand residents in two communities in the US state of Colorado have been ordered to evacuate because of a wind-fuelled wildfire that engulfed parts of the area, burning hundreds of homes, a hotel and a shopping centre. At least half a dozen people were injured and nearly 600 homes were destroyed. Crews outside of Denver are still battling fierce flames fuelled by fierce winds. Some gusts are topping almost 180 kilometres per hour. *) Tens of thousands demand a civilian government in Sudan Tens of thousands of Sudanese protesters have defied a security lockdown to demand a transition to a full civilian government.
In Khartoum, demonstrators came within a few hundred metres of the presidential palace, the headquarters of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan who seized power on October 25. Troops, police and paramilitary units used tear gas to disperse them.
Pro-democracy activists have been demonstrating in the streets against the army takeover for more than two months. That's despite a crackdown that has killed at least 48 people.
And finally … *) Over 3,000 cultural artifacts returned to Turkiye this year
Turkiye has recovered some 3,480 of its cultural assets this year thanks to the efforts of the country's anti-smuggling authorities.
These artifacts sometimes included "a piece of ceramic tile, sometimes a coin, sometimes a statue, a mosaic," said Zeynep Boz, who heads the anti-trafficking department at the country's Culture and Tourism Ministry.
With an abundance of historical sites, Turkiye has countless antiquities buried underground, making the country a hotspot for excavators.
*) Biden, Putin to discuss 'range of topics' as Ukraine crisis simmers
Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin will speak by telephone amid high tensions in Ukraine, the White House has said.
Both leaders will speak on Thursday as Putin stepped up his demands for security guarantees in Eastern Europe.
The talks come as the US and Western allies have watched the massing of Russian forces along the border with Ukraine, growing to an estimated 100,000.
*) Russia and Belarus plan to hold joint military drills
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced plans to hold joint military drills with Belarus early next year.
The decision was confirmed during a meeting between Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Saint Petersburg.
The planned exercise will take place amid rising tensions between their governments and the West.
*) Israel approves measures to improve ties with Palestinians
Israel's defence minister has approved a raft of measures aimed at improving relations with Palestine following a rare meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Israel.
Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Abbas discussed security coordination between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, which administers pockets of the occupied West Bank.
Gantz's office said he approved “confidence-building measures” including the transfer of tax payments to the Palestinian Authority, and residency status for thousands of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip.
*) Ethiopia approves dialogue commission that won't talk to rebels for now
Ethiopian lawmakers have approved a bill to establish a commission for national dialogue.
However, some government officials have said specifically that the new commission will not be engaging in talks with Tigray rebels.
The 11-member commission is tasked with facilitating "an inclusive dialogue and reconciliation process that would heal wounds… and help the country to solve its complex problems," the bill added.
And finally …
*) US jury finds Maxwell guilty of five sex abuse-related charges
A US jury has found British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell guilty of five charges of sex abuse and trafficking.
Maxwell could be sentenced to decades in prison for finding teenage girls for the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The jury deliberated for five days before finding Maxwell guilty on five of the six counts she faced including the sex trafficking of a minor.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Police arrests six people after raiding anti-Beijing media office Six people working at a prominent anti-Beijing media outlet have been arrested in Hong Kong after national security police raided their office.
The current and former chief editors of Stand News, and four former board members were detained for conspiracy to publish seditious content.
Among those apprehended are pop singer Denise Ho and former democratic legislator Margaret Ng.
The arrests came a day after additional charges were levelled against jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai for the same offence.
*) US averaging 267,000 infections in daily Covid case record
The United States has reported its highest ever number of daily Covid-19 cases, at more than 253,000.
It comes after the country decided to shorten the recommended Covid-19 isolation and quarantine period from 10 days to five, drawing criticism from some medical experts. France and England have also hit record Covid-19 numbers. France reported almost 180 thousand cases, while England had nearly 130 thousand infections on Tuesday.
*) Brazil official likens flooding in over 100 cities to 'bombardment'
A total of 116 cities in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia are in a state of emergency because of flooding due to heavy rains and the collapse of two dams. Official data from the state government say 34,163 people have been made homeless and almost 43,000 are displaced. There have been a total of 21 deaths and 358 people injured this month due to heavy rains in the region. *) Israel's Gantz hosts Palestine's Abbas at home in rare meeting
Palestine's President Mahmud Abbas met Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz during a rare trip to Israel.
Abbas discussed creating a political horizon, leading to a solution of the Mideast conflict, Palestine's officials said.
Gantz told Abbas that he intended to "continue to promote actions to strengthen confidence in the economic and civilian fields," an Israeli Defence Ministry statement said.
And finally …
*) Reality TV star Paris Hilton launches business in the metaverse
Paris Hilton has created an island in the online virtual world, dubbed Paris World. Visitors can explore digital replicas of her Beverly Hills estate and its dog mansion in a luxury sports car or Sunray yacht. Like other virtual hangouts, Paris World will collect small payments for purchasing virtual clothing or booking a ride on a jet-ski.
*) Somalia PM accuses president of 'coup' attempt as elections spat deepens
A political crisis in Somalia has escalated as the president suspended the prime minister, who blasted the move as an "attempted coup" and asked armed forces to follow his orders.
The exchange came a day after President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed sparred with Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble over sluggish preparations for elections.
Relations between the pair have long been frosty, but the latest move stokes fears over the country’s stability as it struggles to stage elections and fight an insurgency.
*) India blocks foreign funds for Mother Teresa's charity on Christmas
India has terminated a permit that allowed a Christian organisation, the Missionaries of Charity, to receive foreign funds. That's after hardline Hindu organisations affiliated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party accused the group of leading religious conversion programmes. The charity, which was founded by the late Mother Teresa, has more than 3,000 nuns worldwide and runs a stream of social programmes across India. *) Syria reports 2nd Israeli attack on vital port in a month Israeli missiles fired from the Mediterranean struck the Syrian port of Latakia, igniting a fire in the container terminal, state media reported.
The suspected air strike caused a blaze at a container storage area, and damaged a hospital, residential buildings and shops.
The strike marks the second such attack this month on the facility that handles most imports for war-torn Syria.
*) Thousands of cranes die in Israel's 'deadliest wildlife disaster'
A bird flu outbreak in northern Israel has killed at least 5,200 migratory cranes and forced farmers to slaughter hundreds of thousands of chickens.
Authorities are trying to contain what they say is the deadliest wildlife disaster in the nation's history.
Uri Naveh, a senior scientist at the Israel Parks and Nature Authority, said the situation is not yet under control.
And finally …
*) Chinese web users blast Musk over space station near-misses
Chinese web users slammed billionaire Elon Musk after Beijing said its space station took evasive action to avoid hitting two of his SpaceX satellites. China's Tiangong space station was forced to take "preventive collision avoidance control" during two "close encounters" with SpaceX's Starlink satellites in July and October.
Chinese social media users blasted Musk and his companies over the incident, with one hashtag racking up 87 million views by Tuesday morning.
*) Russia sees 'positive' US reply over security proposals, Ukraine tension
Russia has said US's willingness to discuss Moscow's security proposals to curb NATO's eastward expansion was "positive" as fears mount over military escalation in Ukraine.
President Vladimir Putin said "the start of negotiations announced (for) January will allow us to move forward".
Tensions peaked this week when Putin vowed that Russia would take "appropriate retaliatory" military steps in response to the West's "aggressive stance".
*) Turkiye, Qatar sign deal to jointly operate Kabul airport
Turkiye and Qatar have agreed to jointly operate Afghanistan's Kabul airport following talks between committees from both countries.
A joint committee will visit the Afghan capital Kabul to discuss the deal with the interim government of the country, diplomatic sources said.
Afghans and foreign nationals fled the country through the facility when the Taliban took power in August following two decades of war.
*) Tunisian president warns of 'assassination plans' against some officials
Tunisian President Kais Saied has warned the public that plots are being prepared against some officials in the country, including assassinations.
“There is even a recording of a phone call that specifies the day of the assassinations," Saied said in a video message.
His remarks came as a group, including some members of parliament, declared that they will go on hunger strike in protest against Saied's July 25 power grab.
*) Iran nuclear talks to restart in Vienna next week
The European Union has said talks to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal will resume next Monday.
The EU's foreign service said the meeting would be attended by representatives of China, France, Germany, Russia, Britain and Iran.
Officials have said the deal would become obsolete within weeks if Iran continued to step up its nuclear activities as it has been doing since 2019.
And finally …
*) Coldplay to stop recording new music in 2025
Hugely successful British band Coldplay will stop recording in 2025, but will continue touring.
"Our last proper record will come out in 2025 and after that I think we will only tour," the frontman Chris Martin said in a BBC radio interview. He added that the rock band, which was formed in 1996, might continue to do "collaborative things" but that "the Coldplay catalogue, as it were, finishes then".
*) Libya’s interim prime minister resumes duties amid vote delay
Libya’s interim Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh has resumed his duties amid an expected postponement of the country’s presidential elections.
A Libyan parliamentary committee said that it has become impossible to hold a long-awaited presidential vote on Friday as previously scheduled.
Dozens of MPs called Libyans to take the streets after a parliamentary committee postponed the vote and suggested January 24 as a new date.
*) Turkiye calls for long-term Middle East peace
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has met with members of the Turkish Jewish Community and the Alliance of Rabbis in Islamic States in Ankara.
During the meeting, he said “constructive steps on occupied Jerusalem could contribute to security and stability in the region”.
Erdogan said “we never want to see tension or conflict in this ancient geography that hosts the sacred places of all three monotheistic religions”. *) Ethiopian government captures rebel-held Alamata
Ethiopia's government has said its soldiers had recaptured Alamata in southern Tigray from Tigrayan fighters.
The government marked it as the first major advance inside the war-torn region in many months, dashing hopes for peace following a rebel retreat.
The Tigray People's Liberation Front rebel group, which announced its withdrawal from the Amhara region and Afar regions, has called for a ceasefire.
*) China launches crackdown on celebrity tax evasion
China's tax authorities have set a 10-day deadline for entertainers and social media influencers to pay overdue taxes.
Tax bureaus in several entertainment hubs across the country warned that celebrities who have underreported earnings could face severe penalties if they don't refile by year end.
Government campaign aims to tighten the noose on tax evasion and celebrity excesses.
And finally…
*) Oscar winner Mahershala Ali moves into spotlight in 'Swan Song'
Double Oscar winner Mahershala Ali has finally found the right project to make his debut as lead actor in a feature film.
Ali, who won Oscars for his supporting roles in "Green Book" and "Moonlight", is starring in the new drama "Swan Song", which will stream on Apple TV+ on December 27.
"Whether you're leading or supporting or in an ensemble, you're always trying to look for good material," Ali said.
*) UN: Scores of migrants drown in two shipwrecks off Libya
More than 160 migrants and refugees have drowned in two separate shipwrecks off Libya over the past week.
Safa Msehli, a spokesperson for the International Organisation for Migration, said, in one incident, at least 102 migrants were reported dead after their wooden boat capsized off Libya.
At least eight others were rescued and returned to shore, she said.
*) Sudan PM Hamdok intends to resign 'within hours'
Sudan Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has told a group of national political and intellectual figures that he intends to resign in the coming hours.
The group Hamdok spoke to called on him to stay in his position but he insisted he would leave, according to two sources close to the premier.
Hamdok was reinstated on November 21 following a coup a month earlier that saw the military take power and end a transitional partnership with political parties.
*) UN plans to pay 'nearly $6M' to Taliban for safe Afghanistan mission
The United Nations has proposed to pay nearly $6 million for protection in Afghanistan to the Taliban-run Interior Ministry, whose chief is under UN and US sanctions and wanted by the FBI.
The proposed funds would be paid next year mostly to subsidise the monthly wages of Taliban soldiers guarding UN facilities.
It will also provide them with a monthly food allowance under an expansion of an accord with the former US-backed Afghan government, a UN document said.
*) Turkiye minister reassures holders of lira assets
Turkiye’s lira is moving towards a level where it will find its true balance, Turkiye's Finance Minister Nureddin Nebati said.
Nebati's comments came hours after his ministry announced a new measure in which Turkiye will compensate lira depositors for foreign currency fluctuations.
The lira stood at 12.25 to the US dollar at 0539 GMT, from a close of 12.4 on Tuesday when it rose 6 percent in a roller-coaster session.
And finally …
*) Madagascar minister 'swims for 12 hours' after sea crash
A Madagascan minister was one of two survivors to have swum some 12 hours to shore after their helicopter crashed off the island's northeastern coast.
Serge Gelle, the country's secretary of state for police, and a fellow policeman reached land in the seaside town of Mahambo separately, apparently, after ejecting themselves from the aircraft.
A search was still ongoing for two other passengers after the crash, whose cause was not immediately clear, police and port authorities said.
*) Omicron replaces Delta to become dominant Covid version in US
Omicron has raced ahead of other variants and is now the dominant version of the coronavirus in the US, accounting for 73 percent of new infections last week.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention numbers showed nearly a six-fold increase in Omicron's share of infections in only one week.
Omicron is responsible for an estimated 90 percent or more of new infections in the New York area, the Southeast, the industrial Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest.
*) Philippines death toll from Typhoon Rai rises to at least 375
The death toll from a powerful typhoon that hit the Philippines has risen to 375, with more than 1.8 million people affected and hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes.
Officials and residents pleaded for food, water and shelter as damaged roads, flooding and severed power and communication lines hampered relief efforts.
Typhoon Rai made landfall and caused heavy rains for days, resulting in severe flooding and power outages in several provinces.
*) Turkiye's Erdogan: Govt measures will protect people from high costs
Turkiye’s lira has pared back some of its losses after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced measures aimed at protecting the country's people from high cost of living.
One of his promises is that Turkish citizens who keep their savings in lira will not pay tax on any profits those savings make.
Erdogan’s announcement comes amid rising prices and soaring exchange rates as the government pursues its “new economic model”, which opposes high interest rates.
*) Tigray forces announce retreat from neighbouring Ethiopian regions
We move next to Ethiopia, where the Tigray People's Liberation Front says its fighters will withdraw from the neighbouring regions of Amhara and Afar and retreat to Tigray.
The rebels say they took the decision in a bid to reach a peace deal and allow the entry of humanitarian aid but the government says the TPLF is trying to cover up its recent military defeats.
The move comes after more than a year of war that has left thousands of people dead and millions displaced.
*) Chris Noth dropped from 'The Equalizer' amid sex assault claims
Chris Noth will no longer be part of the CBS series “The Equalizer” in the wake of sexual assault allegations against the actor.
Universal Television and CBS made a joint announcement that Noth would no longer be part of filming “effective immediately”.
Two women accused Noth of sexual assault in a story reported last week by The Hollywood Reporter.
*) Death toll in Philippines typhoon tops 200
We begin in the Philippines, where the death toll from the strongest typhoon to hit the country this year has surged to 208.
At least 239 people were injured and 52 were missing after Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the archipelago.
More than 300,000 people fled their homes and beachfront resorts as Rai slammed into the country on Thursday as a super typhoon.
*) Gabriel Boric wins Chile's presidential election
Leftist Gabriel Boric has been elected Chile's next president after a bruising campaign against a free-market firebrand.
With 68 percent of the total polling stations, Boric had 55 percent of the votes compared with 45 percent for his opponent, lawmaker Jose Antonio Kast.
Kast recognised defeat and called his opponent to congratulate him on his "grand triumph" as supporters of Boric gathered in downtown Santiago to celebrate.
*) Hong Kong sees the lowest turnout in three decades
A record low turnout has been registered in Hong Kong's legislative council election, the first since China introduced a national security law.
Just over 30 percent of voters took part in the 'patriots' only election' in which China decided the eligibility of every candidate.
Hong Kong officials say the candidate vetting process by Beijing was needed in order to ensure stability but critics say it has weakened democracy in the city.
*) Hundreds of thousands march to Sudan presidential palace in protest against coup
Hundreds of thousands of people marched to the presidential palace in Sudan's capital Khartoum in protest against the October 25 military coup but were met with tear gas and stun grenades from security forces.
There are reports one person was killed and more than 100 injured, but there is no official confirmation.
Demonstrators said they're rejecting the agreement that allowed Abdalla Hamdok to be reinstated as prime minister.
*) WTA says Peng Shuai appearance does not address its concerns
The Women's Tennis Association said an appearance of Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai did not address its concerns about her wellbeing.
Peng said that she had never accused anyone of sexually assaulting her and that a social media post she had made early last month had been misunderstood.
The WTA said it was still not convinced of Peng's wellbeing, calling for a “fair and transparent investigation” into her allegation.
*) US Congress approves China forced labour bill
US senators have approved a bill barring imports from China's Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region.
The bill is effective unless Chinese businesses can prove goods were produced without forced labour.
The measure is the latest in a series of intensifying US penalties over China's alleged abuse of ethnic and religious minorities, especially the Muslim Uighurs.
*) Dozens feared dead in blaze at clinic in Japan
At least 27 people are feared dead after a fire broke out at a psychiatric clinic in Japan's Osaka city.
TV footage showed dozens of firefighters working inside and outside the narrow office building after the blaze was extinguished.
Local media reported that police were investigating suspected arson.
*) Typhoon Rai forces tens of thousands to seek shelter in Philippines
Super Typhoon Rai has made landfall in the Philippines, bringing torrential rain and extremely high winds.
Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated, with warnings of life-threatening flooding in coastal areas.
Across the entire planet, there are usually only about five such powerful storms a year. This is the second to hit the Philippines in four months.
*) 'Mercenary' spy firms busted in Facebook probe
Facebook owner Meta has named half a dozen private surveillance companies, mostly Israeli, for hacking or other abuses.
Meta's report accused them of collectively targeting some 48,000 people in more than 100 countries across its platforms.
The report said it was suspending roughly 1,500 mostly fake accounts run by seven organisations across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
And finally …
*) Bruce Springsteen sells song catalogue for $500 million
Bruce Springsteen has sold his music rights to Sony in an estimated $500 million deal.
The sale includes the singer's recorded music catalogue as well as his body of work as a songwriter, including classic hits such as "Born in the USA".
It is the latest in a string of deals that have seen older musicians including Paul Simon, Stevie Nicks and Neil Young reap the benefits of their catalogues towards the end of their careers.
*) US launches commission to study Afghanistan fiasco
The US Congress has voted to set up a commission to assess the failures of the 20-year war in Afghanistan following the Taliban's victory.
The commission was part of a $768 billion annual defence package passed by the Senate 89-10 on Wednesday.
President Joe Biden controversially pulled out US troops in August to end America's longest war and invasion.
*) Iran allows IAEA to install new cameras at nuclear site
Iran and the UN's nuclear watchdog have reached an agreement on replacing cameras at a nuclear complex that Iran says had been previously damaged by an Israeli attack.
There have been multiple warnings from Western powers that time is running out to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, with no significant breakthrough at talks in Vienna.
But the issue of cameras may be a start.
*) Zelenskyy urges sanctions amid high tensions with Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is calling on European Union leaders to impose new sanctions on Russia 'before it's too late'.
Kiev says it's ready for talks with Moscow, though Russian President Vladimir Putin has not committed to any meeting.
Ukraine has accused Russia of gathering thousands of soldiers near its border for a possible military offensive.
*) EU: Omicron to be dominant variant by mid-January
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that Omicron is expected to be the dominant coronavirus variant in the EU by mid-January.
The head of the EU’s executive branch, however, said that the bloc is well-prepared for the variant, with 66.6 percent of the population now fully vaccinated against Covid.
One of the largest studies on Omicron shows it may lead to less severe cases, but data also reveals that it is more contagious than any other variant.
And finally …
*) Groundbreaking Black feminist writer Bell Hooks dies at 69 Black feminist author and intellectual Bell Hooks, whose work took on new urgency amid the racial justice protests that swept the US, has died at her home in Kentucky, aged 69.
The Washington Post reported that the cause of death was end-stage renal failure, citing her family. Hooks’ work explored how race, gender, economics and politics were intertwined and made her among the most influential thinkers of her time.
*) US ready to lift 'inconsistent' JCPOA sanctions against Iran
The US says it is prepared to lift sanctions against Iran that are not related to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action that sought to rein in Tehran's nuclear programme.
US envoy to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that if Iran approaches talks in Vienna "with urgency and good faith," the US can reach and implement an understanding on mutual return.
Indirect talks between Tehran and Washington to revive the battered deal started in April of this year but were paused in June.
*) France vacates troops from Mali's Timbuktu city after nine years
France has lowered its flag and handed over keys to a military base in Timbuktu to Mali's military.
The French military said that the Malian military maintains "a strong garrison in Timbuktu," as well as nearly 2,200 UN peacekeepers who are permanently deployed there.
The withdrawal comes amid heightened tensions with Mali's army-dominated government and growing local opposition to French presence in the region.
*) Scores burned alive in fuel truck explosion in Haiti
In Haiti, at least 60 people have died while trying to collect spilt fuel from an overturned truck.
Local reports suggest the truck driver lost control as he swerved to avoid a motorbike, causing the tanker to flip over.
Witnesses say people nearby were rushing to collect the leaking fuel when the tanker exploded.
*) Afghans facing 'avalanche of hunger and destitution'
An estimated 98 percent of Afghans are not eating enough – with seven in 10 families resorting to borrowing food, pushing them deeper into poverty.
That’s according to the United Nations' World Food Programme which describes the situation in the country as “an avalanche of hunger and destitution”.
Poverty and hunger have pushed civilians into taking desperate measures, including child labour, early marriage and "even the sale of children", the WFP said.
And finally …
*) NASA probe 'touches' Sun for first time
A NASA spacecraft has officially "touched" the Sun, plunging through the unexplored solar atmosphere known as the corona.
The Parker Solar Probe actually flew through the corona in April during the spacecraft's eighth close approach to the Sun.
Scientists said it took a few months to get the data back and then several more months to confirm.
*) US will not discipline troops for strike that killed Afghan civilians
No US troops involved in the August drone strike that killed innocent Kabul civilians and children will face disciplinary action.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved recommendations for improvements in strike operations which did not include disciplinary action, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said.
A Pentagon review in November found flaws in communication and identification of the target of the bombing, which killed 10 civilians, including seven children.
*) Iran accuses Western parties to 2015 nuclear deal of ‘blame game’
Iran has accused Western parties to its 2015 nuclear deal of "blame games" after European diplomats warned the accord was at risk of losing any real meaning.
Iran's top negotiator Ali Bagheri Kani defended Tehran, saying it "proposed ideas early and worked constructively".
On Monday, British, French and German diplomats said major powers and Iran had yet to get down to business at talks on rescuing the nuclear deal, which will very soon become "an empty shell" without progress.
*) Canada apologises to victims of military sex misconduct
Canadian political and military leaders have officially apologised to victims of military sexual misconduct.
The apology followed the government’s 468 million dollar settlement with tens of thousands of current and ex-Armed Forces members who experienced abuse.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is also facing questions over a failure to investigate criminal sexual misconduct among some of the military’s top leaders.
*)Tunisia president vows to call referendum, elections next year
Tunisia's President Kais Saied has prolonged the suspension of parliament and announced a constitutional referendum, almost five months after dismissing his government and granting himself sweeping powers.
The referendum on political reform will take place on July 25, 2022, both Tunisia’s Republic Day and when Saied took on executive powers this summer.
Saied also extended the suspension of parliament until elections in December 2022.
Critics have called Saied’s measures a “coup d’etat”.
And finally …
*) Larry Nassar victims reach $380M settlement
The victims of sexual abuse by former US gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar have reached a 380-million-dollar settlement with USA Gymnastics.
A court in Indianapolis on Monday approved the agreement between USA Gymnastics and the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee and the more than 500 victims.
More than 300 victims were abused by Nassar, with the remaining victims abused by individuals affiliated with USA Gymnastics in some capacity.
*) Race to find survivors as US tornadoes kill dozens
Search and rescue operations continue across six US states after a string of powerful tornadoes and storms left a trail of destruction.
Kentucky's governor says the storms were the worst in state history and the death toll is likely to exceed 100.
From Arkansas to Illinois, around 30 fierce fierce tornadoes obliterated homes, businesses and in some cases, entire towns.
*) G7 issues warning to Russia over Ukraine
G7 countries are warning Russia it will face massive consequences if it launches a military invasion of Ukraine.
US intelligence says Moscow could be planning a multi-front offensive involving up to 175,000 troops.
The Kremlin rejected these claims, but says the possible inclusion of Ukraine in NATO threatens its borders and contravenes assurances given to Moscow when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.
*) WHO: Over 500M pushed into poverty
The World Health Organization says over 500 million people around the world were pushed into poverty last year during the pandemic.
WHO says it's due to people having to pay their own healthcare costs as the pandemic has not only disrupted the global economy, but also health systems.
WHO is urging countries to focus on revamping their healthcare systems and to make it more affordable to all.
*) State of emergency declared after heavy flooding hits Brazil
Brazil declared a state of emergency in almost 50 cities, after torrential rains swept through the country's north and southeast states, killing at least three people.
Last week dozens of cities were cut off by floods, causing houses and bridges to collapse.
Government will provide financial assistance to those who’ve lost their homes.
And finally…
*) Verstappen crowned F1 world champion
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is the new Formula One world champion after winning the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi.
The Dutchman started on pole, but title rival Lewis Hamilton took the lead after a faster start, with the Brit chasing a historic 8th title.
A late safety car ensured Red Bull a free pit stop to get fresher tires and storm past Hamilton on restart in the last lap.
*) Mexico trailer accident kills dozens of migrants
At least 53 migrants were killed after the truck they were hiding in hit a wall and overturned in southern Mexico.
Another 58 people were hurt and rushed to nearby hospitals.
According to survivors, a majority of those in the truck were from Guatemala, and were trying to reach the US.
*) Biden gives Ukraine reassurances over tension with Russia
US President Joe Biden has told Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Washington will impose severe economic sanctions against Moscow if Russia attacks Ukraine.
Biden assured Zelenskyy that Washington will provide military resources in the form of training and funds, as well as full political support in the face of a potential Russian invasion.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the conflict in eastern Ukraine between Kiev's army and pro-Russian separatists, "looks like genocide".
*) Pakistani Taliban refuses to extend ceasefire with government
The Tehreek-e-Taliban in Pakistan has declared an end to a month-long ceasefire agreement it had with the government.
They accuse Islamabad of breaching terms including a prisoner release agreement and the formation of negotiating committees.
It also said security forces had carried out raids while the ceasefire was in force.
*) Nicaragua cuts ties with Taiwan
Nicaragua has broken diplomatic ties with Taiwan and recognised "only one China.”
The statement leaves the island nation with just 14 formal diplomatic allies, but its president says it will not dent determination to defend its freedom.
Beijing has welcomed the move, with officials from both countries due to meet in China soon.
And finally…
*) US actor found guilty in staged racist hate crime case
A Chicago jury has found actor Jussie Smollett guilty of staging a fake hate crime.
Prosecutors said Smollett, who is Black and gay, lied to police when he told them that he was assaulted by two masked strangers in January 2019.
The actor faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison for each count when he is sentenced, although he could be given probation.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Three Hong Kong activists convicted over vigil
A Hong Kong court has convicted media tycoon Jimmy Lai and two other activists for taking part in an unauthorised gathering last year.
The candlelight vigil was held to commemorate the victims of Beijing's deadly 1989 crackdown on Tiananmen Square.
The trio are part of a larger group of activists being prosecuted on charges that include collusion with foreign forces.
*) Indian defence chief killed in chopper crash
The remains of India's military chief Bipin Rawat and 12 others have returned to the army base in Tamil Nadu.
All 13 were killed in a helicopter crash that was flying to an army services college in the southern state.
One officer survived the crash and is being treated at a military hospital.
*) Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine protects against Omicron
Pfizer-BioNTech says its vaccine booster shot will play a vital role in protecting against Omicron.
Lab testing showed a three-dose course of the vaccine neutralised the latest variant.
The discovery comes as the World Health Organization says Omicron has now been reported in 57 countries around the world.
*) Meta bans all military-linked Myanmar companies
Facebook’s parent company Meta will ban all pages and accounts belonging to Myanmar military-backed businesses, expanding restraints on the country's armed forces.
The tech giant had in February announced a ban on all entities linked to the military from advertising on its platforms.
The popular and influential site has for years been criticised for its ineffective response to malicious posts, particularly against Rohingya Muslims.
And finally…
*) CEO apologises for firing 900 workers over Zoom
The chief executive officer of Better.com has apologised after a video of him firing 900 staff via Zoom went viral.
Vishal Garg came under intense criticism when the mortgage company laid off about 9 percent of its workforce through a video call.
Garg said he had "blundered the execution" of communicating the layoffs.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Malaysian court upholds Najib Razak's conviction
A Malaysian appeals court upheld former PM Najib Razak's guilty verdict in a case linked to a corruption scandal at state fund 1MDB.
Najib was sentenced to 12 years in prison and fined $50 million last year.
He was found guilty of criminal breach of trust, abuse of power and money laundering for illegally receiving about $10 million from a former unit of the now-defunct 1MDB.
*) Saudi say France arrested wrong suspect
Saudi Arabia is refuting French police assertions that they caught a Saudi man suspected of being involved in the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Riyadh says it's a case of mistaken identity.
French officials say they are now preparing to extradite the man to Turkey.
*) Australia impose diplomatic boycott of Beijing Olympics
Australia has followed US and New Zealand by imposing a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games.
PM Scott Morrison says Canberra is struggling to reopen diplomatic channels with Beijing, to discuss China's suspected human rights abuses.
China has condemned the move.
*) Rohingya refugees sue Facebook
Rohingya refugees are suing Facebook for $150 billion for not doing enough to stop hate speech against them.
Lawyers filing the class-action suit say the way Facebook is designed, contributes to real-world violence against the Rohingya.
UN's human rights investigators said Facebook played a significant role in fanning hate speech that fuelled the violence in 2018.
And finally…
*) US returns stolen artifacts to Mali
The US has returned over 900 stolen artefacts to Mali. Some of the artefacts date back at least 6,000 years.
Many were discovered in 2009, and had been trafficked in the US, labeled as replicas.
They were later certified as genuine by anthropologists and will soon be on display in Mali's museums
*) Biden, Putin to hold video call on Russia-Ukraine tensions
US and Russian presidents will hold a video conference amid reports that Moscow is planning an incursion into Ukraine.
The White House says it will offer diplomatic alternatives to military conflict, but the Kremlin is warning against any interference in regional affairs.
This will be the first time Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin have spoken since July, and the call is set to tackle key national security concerns.
*) Court to consider appeal in Israeli war crimes case
A Dutch court will today rule on war crimes accusations against Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz.
Dutch-Palestinian Ismail Ziada filed the civil case against Gantz and another official, after six of his relatives were killed in an Israeli air strike on Gaza in 2014.
Last year, a lower court dismissed the case, saying Gantz had immunity in civil cases, but Ziada appealed on the grounds that immunity does give cover war crime accusations
*) Turkey, Qatar to improve relations
Turkey's President Erdogan is in Qatar for a two-day state visit aimed at expanding cooperation between the two countries.
He'll preside over the 7th strategic cooperation meeting between Ankara and Doha along with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani.
The visit comes as Turkey works to improve ties with Gulf countries.
*) US boycotts Beijing Olympics on diplomatic level
The US says all of its diplomats will boycott the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, over China's human rights record.
New Zealand also joined the boycott saying none of its ministers will attend.
Athletes, however, will attend and have the full backing of their countries.
And finally…
*) NYC mayor extends vaccine mandate to private sector
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a blanket Covid-19 vaccine mandate for private sector workers.
In a first for the US, De Blasio cited the emergence of the Omicron variant, cold winter weather and holiday gatherings as additional challenges to tackling the pandemic.
Additionally, children aged five to 11 must show proof of at least one dose of vaccine for restaurants and other activities while those aged 12 and over must prove they've had two shots.
*) Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi gets 4 year sentence
Myanmar's ousted leaders Aung San Suu Kyi and Win Myint were each sentenced to four-years each on charges of incitement and violations of a law on natural disasters.
The ruling is the first in a series of cases brought against the former leaders since a military coup on February 1.
The coup came after the army, whose allied party lost many seats, claimed massive voting fraud, but independent election observers did not detect any major irregularities.
*) Anti-Covid restriction protests turn violent in Brussels
Tensions flared in Brussels as anti-lockdown protesters clashed with riot police.
Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators, who gathered to oppose compulsory health measures against the pandemic.
Belgium also imposed the use of Covid-19 passes for people to access bars and restaurants, as the country struggles to stem the rising number of cases.
*) Casualties in northern Iraq as Daesh, Peshmerga fight
In northern Iraq, Daesh militants killed four Peshmerga soldiers and a civilian, and wounded six others in an attack to take over a village. The group also captured another village a day after attacking it. The two villages are in a remote territory claimed by both Iraq and the govt in Erbil. *) Thousands rally against France’s Eric Zemmour Scuffles broke out between anti-racism activists and supporters of far-right French presidential candidate Eric Zemmour at a rally in Paris.
Zemmour, who's been dubbed 'France's Donald Trump', promises a "reconquest" against what he called "decades of decline".
The 63-year-old evoked the historic period, when Christian forces drove Muslim rulers from the Iberian peninsula in Spain and Portugal.
And finally… *) Pope calls on govts to stop using migrants as pawns Pope Francis is calling on governments to stop using migrants as pawns in international politics. The pontiff is currently on a visit to Lesvos in Greece, where he's meeting with refugees at a migrant camp on the island. The Pope is on a five-day trip across the country, aiming to highlight the struggles of refugees.
*) US reports Omicron cases in multiple states
Hawaii has found a case of the Omicron coronavirus variant, officials said, becoming the fifth US state to detect the variant.
This brings the total number of reported infections in the country to nine. Earlier, New York reported five such cases.
Scientists have been working to understand how dangerous is the new variant, which was first detected in South Africa and has now spread to many parts of the world.
*) UN urged to investigate war crimes in Yemen
More than 60 activist groups, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have called on the UN to investigate possible war crimes by all sides in Yemen's conflict.
They accused Saudia Arabia and the United Arab Emirates of an "aggressive lobbying campaign" to quash that Geneva-based expert panel set up four years ago.
More than 100,000 people have been killed and 4 million displaced in the war marked by Saudi-led coalition air strikes as well as shelling and missiles by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels.
*) US, EU and allies hit Belarus with coordinated sanctions
The United States, European Union, Britain and Canada have slapped simultaneous sanctions on dozens of officials, organisations and companies in Belarus.
The EU, meanwhile, imposed travel bans and asset freezes on 17 more people, including senior border guard and military officials, government representatives and judges.
Belarus has has been accused of encouraging migrants to illegally cross the border into the EU in revenge for previous sanctions slapped on Minsk over human rights abuses.
*) Iran offers European parties new commitments to restore nuclear deal
Iran has provided European powers with drafts on sanctions removal and nuclear commitments as world powers and Tehran try to reinstate the nuclear deal.
The development came after three days of indirect talks between Iran and the United States on bringing both fully back into the deal.
In 2018, then-US President Donald Trump abandoned the deal, calling it too soft on Iran and reimposed harsh US sanctions, spurring Tehran to breach nuclear limits in the pact.
And finally…
*) Crippled by Israel, Palestinian amputees launch national football team
Players in besieged Gaza have used crutches and prosthetic legs to stretch and run as part of the first-ever Palestinian national team.
The team hopes to qualify for the Amputee Football World Cup.
The Palestinian team is in the isolated Gaza enclave, whose two million residents have been locked under a harsh Israeli blockade since Hamas took over in 2007.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) First case of Omicron found in US
The United States has identified its first known Covid case caused by the Omicron variant.
The infected person, who had mild and improving symptoms, returned to the United States from South Africa on November 22. He tested positive seven days later.
The person is in self-quarantine and all of the patient's close contacts have tested negative, according to top US infectious disease official Dr Anthony Fauci.
*) Ethiopian army recaptures several towns near capital from Tigrayan rebels
Ethiopia has claimed it recaptured several towns after Tigrayan rebels took control of them last week as part of their advance towards the capital Addis Ababa.
Government spokesperson Legesse Tulu said forces recaptured towns on the Shewa front, including Shewa Robit, Mezezo, Molale, Rasa and its surroundings.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has announced its aid trucks have started to arrive in Tigray’s capital Mekelle after more than six weeks. Flights between Mekelle and Addis Ababa have also resumed.
*) World Bank reportedly okays unfreezing $280M to aid Afghanistan
The World Bank's board has endorsed transferring $280 million from a frozen trust fund to two aid agencies to help Afghanistan cope with a brewing humanitarian crisis.
This is according to Reuters news agency, which cited two sources familiar with the matter.
The World Bank said that the 31 donors to the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund must approve the transfer before the funds could flow to the World Food Programme and UNICEF. The donors are expected to meet on Friday.
*) EU to tighten asylum rules at Belarus border
The European Union has proposed curtailing some rights of refugees at its borders with Belarus.
Under the proposal by the EU Commission, refugees would be permitted to claim asylum only at designated locations, such as border crossings, and could be kept for up to 16 weeks at the border. The new proposals are part of the latest EU attempt to deal with what it describes as a crisis manufactured by Belarus. And finally…
*) WTA suspends all tournaments in China over Peng concerns The Women's Tennis Association has announced the immediate suspension of all tournaments in China due to concerns about the well-being of former doubles world number one Peng Shuai.
Peng's whereabouts became a matter of international concern following a nearly three-week absence after she said that a top Chinese official had sexually assaulted her.
The WTA's decision was applauded by many leading figures in the tennis world but could cost the organisation hundreds of millions of dollars.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Vaccine likely to protect against severe Covid from Omicron: BioNTech CEO
BioNTech's Chief Executive Ugur Sahin says his company’s Covid-19 vaccine will "likely offer strong protection" against any severe disease from the new Omicron virus variant.
BioNTech's guarded confidence contrasts with a sense of alarm conveyed by the chief executive of rival vaccine maker Moderna, Stephane Bancel.
Bancel had raised the prospect of a material drop in protection against the new coronavirus lineage from current vaccines.
Sahin would not be drawn on whether Omicron will become as dominant as the Delta variant. "But even if, that in itself is no reason to panic," he said.
*) China 'hunting' Taiwan citizens abroad through deportation
Beijing has pressured foreign governments to deport hundreds of Taiwan nationals to China in what human rights activists describe as a "hunt for Taiwanese".
Over 600 Taiwanese people were extradited from various countries to China between 2016 and 2019 to "undermine Taiwanese sovereignty,” a report found.
Beijing has been pressuring governments to extradite hundreds of Taiwanese people, mostly accused of telecoms fraud to China, according to the rights group Safeguard Defenders.
Those extradited to China faced "arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, and forced televised confessions", the group said.
*) At least three people dead in Michigan high school shooting
In the US state of Michigan, a student has gone on a shooting rampage at a high school north of Detroit.
The 15-year-old suspect killed three students and injured eight other people, including a teacher.
Police say he was in possession of a semi-automatic handgun when taken into custody.
*) Castro set to become Honduras' president as rival concedes defeat
Honduras’ ruling party has conceded defeat in presidential elections, giving victory to leftist opposition candidate Xiomara Castro.
Nasry Asfura of the National Party said in a statement that he had personally congratulated Castro, despite only about half of the voting tallies having been counted.
Castro had 53 percent support to Asfura's 34 percent, according to the National Electoral Council.
And finally…
*) World Aids Day: Covid-19 diverted resources from AIDS fight
The Covid-19 pandemic has diverted scientific and financial resources from the fight against AIDS, according to top US infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci.
Marking World Aid Day, Fauci told the United Nations General Assembly global efforts to achieve the UN goal of ending AIDS by 2030 have been impeded by the pandemic.
Fauci said that tackling Covid-19 has also disrupted supply chains and increased the risk for people with HIV of being infected with another deadly virus.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Barbados becomes world's newest republic
Barbados has removed Britain's Queen Elizabeth as head of state, severing its last remaining colonial bonds nearly 400 years after the first English ships arrived at the Caribbean island.
During the ceremony, the Royal Standard flag was lowered and the governor-general, Dame Sandra Mason, was sworn in as the nation's first president.
Hundreds of people lined Chamberlain Bridge in the capital, Bridgetown to watch a dazzling display of Barbadian dance and music, complete with speeches celebrating the end of colonialism.
*) Pentagon orders new probe into 2019 air strike in Syria The US defence secretary orders a review of air strikes in Syria that killed at least 70 civilians.
In March 2019, US jets dropped two bombs on the town of Baghuz, along the Euphrates river.
Washington said they were targeting Daesh, but a New York Times investigation published earlier this month found that mostly women and children were killed.
*) Biden promises no new Covid-19 curbs in wake of Omicron panic
US President Joe Biden has warned Americans not to panic about the new Omicron variant, as global concern is growing over the spread of the heavily mutated strain of Covid-19.
Speaking at the White House, Biden said it was inevitable that the new variant would reach the US, but he also said the country has the tools necessary to protect Americans - particularly the approved vaccines and booster shots.
Biden said he was not considering any widespread lockdown, and that the country is making contingency plans with pharmaceutical companies if new vaccines are needed.
*) Myanmar junta court postpones verdict in Suu Kyi incitement trial
A Myanmar junta court has postponed giving a verdict in the incitement trial of ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The court adjourned the verdict "until December 6," to allow testimony from an additional witness, Dr. Zaw Myint Maung, according to a legal official.
The Nobel laureate faces three years in prison if found guilty of incitement against the military, as well as a catalogue of other charges that could see her jailed for decades.
*) Sexual harassment widespread in Australian parliament One in three people working in Australia's parliament have experienced sexual harassment, an independent inquiry into parliamentary workplace culture found.
The government-backed report found that more than half of the people who responded had experienced at least one incident of sexual harassment, bullying or actual or attempted sexual assault.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the findings were "appalling" and "disturbing" and called on parliament to clean up its act.
*) US warns of ‘other options’ to add pressure on Iran as nuclear talks resume
The United States has warned it is "prepared to use other options" including military force to ramp up pressure on Iran if nuclear talks collapse.
The US National Security Council's coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, Brett McGurk, issued the warning over the weekend, according to CNN.
McGurk said “military force to prevent” Iran “from obtaining a nuclear weapon” is “a very achievable objective”
International talks on Iran's nuclear programme will restart in Vienna on Monday with analysts foreseeing major obstacles to any speedy resumption of the 2015 nuclear deal.
*) Opposition candidate takes big lead in Honduras presidential election
Left-wing opposition candidate Xiomara Castro has taken a commanding lead in Honduras' presidential election, preliminary results showed.
With 16 percent of votes counted, former first lady Castro had taken almost 53.5 percent compared to ruling party's Nasry Asfura at 34 percent.
Castro, whose husband Manuel Zelaya was deposed in a coup in 2009, is hoping to become the first female president of Honduras.
*) EU border agency plane to monitor Channel migrant crossings
Ministers from several European countries have agreed to deploy a plane around the clock, to tackle what they call "migrant trafficking" in the English Channel.
The aircraft will monitor the area from France to the Netherlands, starting Wednesday.
The ministers met in France on Sunday, after 27 people died a few days earlier trying to cross the English Channel to Britain.
The British home secretary Priti Patel was disinvited from the meeting after Boris Johnson called on France to take back the people who crossed over to the UK.
*) African leaders call for reverse of Omicron-linked travel bans
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on countries to reverse scientifically "unjustified" travel bans linked to the discovery of the new coronavirus variant Omicron.
Dozens of nations have blacklisted the country and its neighbours since South African scientists flagged Omicron on November 25.
Ramaphosa's Malawian counterpart Lazarus Chakwera accused Western countries of "Afrophobia" for shutting their borders.
*) Louis Vuitton creative director dies of cancer at 41
One of fashion's most influential designers, Virgil Abloh has died from cancer at the age of 41.
Abloh was the first Black creative director for the world's biggest luxury brand Louis Vuitton.
The Ghanaian-American founded his own label Off-White in 2013.
He was also an important figure in the music industry, collaborating on album covers with artists like Kanye West and Jay-Z.
*) Worries grow as South Africa detects new Covid variant with many mutations
Scientists have raised the alarm over a newly found Covid variant in Southern Africa with multiple mutations.
Australia has launched an investigation into the new Covid variant while the United Kingdom has suspended flights from six African nations.
The scientists are calling the new variant 'the worst one yet'. It could be more easily transmissible, and possibly more resistant to current vaccines.
*) Solomon Islands leader blames foreign powers for fuelling crisis
In the Solomon Islands, rioters have torched buildings during the third day of protests against the government.
In the capital Honiara, police fired tear gas and warning shots to disperse the protesters.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has blamed the foreign powers for fueling the unrest in the country over his government's decision to switch alliances from Taiwan to China.
*) Dozens reportedly killed in Siberia coal mine accident
Arrests have been made in Russia, as the death toll from the Siberia coal mine accident surpassed 50 people.
According to regional authorities, there was a methane explosion caused by a spark. The mine then filled with smoke with 285 people inside.
Dozens have been hospitalised. One local news agency says three patients are in critical condition.
*) Ethiopia asks US to stop 'shameful fake news' on war with Tigray rebels
Ethiopia has accused the United States of spreading false information about security conditions in the war-hit country and warned such statements could harm ties.
It said the US government should refrain from disseminating what it called "shameful fake news and defamation regarding Ethiopia".
Washington once viewed Ethiopia as a vital security partner in the volatile Horn of Africa, but relations have soured over Ethiopia's year-long war against rebels.
And finally…
*) Protesters in Europe, Latin America seek end to violence against women
Thousands have marched through Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, London, and also in Guatemala and Honduras to mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
This year's slogan was “Enough” as hundreds marched through central Madrid on Thursday with some banners calling to put an end to gender-based violence.
Nearly one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence, mostly by someone they know, according to United Nations Women.
*) US jury finds three white men guilty of murdering Ahmaud Arbery
A US jury has found all three white men charged in the death of black man, Ahmaud Arbery, guilty of murder.
Travis McMichael, who shot Ahmaud Arbery, his father Gregory, and their neighbour William "Roddie" Bryan now face minimum sentences of life in prison.
The convicts had chased Arbery in their pickup trucks and shot him dead in the southern US state of Georgia in February last year.
*) Dozens of migrants and refugees loose their lives in English Channel boat disaster
British and French officials have traded blame after 27 migrants and refugees died when their dinghy deflated as they made a perilous crossing of the English Channel.
Wednesday's accident was the worst disaster on record involving migrants and refugees in the narrow seaway separating the two countries.
Human traffickers typically overload the dinghies, leaving them barely afloat and at the mercy of waves as they try to reach British shores.
*) UN seeks truce as Ethiopia's Abiy reaches frontline to fight Tigray rebels
The United Nations chief has called for an "unconditional and immediate" ceasefire in Ethiopia, where government forces are battling rebels from the northern Tigray region.
Antonio Guterres’ appeal came after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived at the frontline where government soldiers are fighting rebels.
International alarm has mounted over the escalating year-long conflict in Ethiopia, where Tigrayan rebels are feared to march on the capital Addis Ababa.
*) Germany’s centre-left-led alliance reach deal on new government
A centre-left-led alliance of parties has announced a deal to form Germany's new government.
The coalition will replace Angela Merkel's cabinet and put the Social Democrats (SPD) in charge for the first time in 16 years.
The alliance concluded a roadmap on Wednesday on plans for Germany's next four years that will install Finance Minister Olaf Scholz as chancellor.
And finally…
*) World honours Maradona on first death anniversary of 'Golden Kid'
The world marks the one-year anniversary of the death of Diego Maradona, regarded by some as the best player of all time.
Argentine club matches will mark a minute of silence and players will arrange themselves in a "10" formation on the pitch to honour Maradona's famous jersey number.
Two statues are set to be unveiled for the striker in the Italian city of Naples, where he spent part of his career.
*) UN reducing footprint in Ethiopia amid growing alarm
International alarm mounted over the escalating war in Ethiopia as Tigrayan rebels claimed to be edging closer to the capital Addis Ababa and more foreign citizens were told to leave.
The United Nations said it had ordered the immediate evacuation of family members of international staff.
France also advised its citizens to leave "without delay", following similar advisories by the US and the UK.
*) Biden taps US gas reserves as energy costs soar
US President Joe Biden is going to release emergency reserves of oil to address rising inflation in the world's largest economy.
The US is releasing 50 million barrels of oil in coordination with other major consumers of crude.
The unprecedented move should also help lower energy prices, which are up 250 percent since January.
Washington has been calling on the international oil cartel OPEC and its allies to raise production, to meet growing demand. But those appeals have been ignored.
*) 'Apple suing Israeli hacker-for-hire company NSO Group Tech giant Apple announced it is suing Israel’s NSO Group, seeking to block the world’s most infamous hacker-for-hire company from breaking into Apple products.
Apple said NSO Group's spyware, called Pegasus, had been used to attack a small number of Apple customers worldwide.
It's the latest blow to the hacking firm, which was recently blacklisted by the US Commerce Department and is currently being sued by social media giant Facebook.
*) HRW: Belarus, Poland violating human rights at border The Human Rights Watch said both Poland and Belarus have committed "serious human rights violations” against migrants on their border.
HRW researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 19 people, some of whom "had been pushed back, sometimes violently, by Polish border guards".
In Belarus, they said that "violence, inhuman and degrading treatment and coercion" by Belarusian border guards were "commonplace".
HRW added that this treatment "may in some cases constitute torture, in violation of Belarus's international legal obligations". And finally…
*) NASA launches spacecraft to slam into and 'divert' asteroid A NASA mission to deliberately smash a spacecraft into an asteroid to see if its course can be altered has blasted off from California.
The SpaceX rocket carrying the experiment lifted off early on Wednesday morning from Vandenberg Space Force Base, NASA TV's livestream showed.
The Double Asteroid Redirection Test or DART is a test run should humanity ever need to stop a giant space rock from wiping out life on Earth.
*) Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed vows to lead army 'from the battlefront'
The Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed has announced he will lead his army from the battlefront against advancing rebel forces, in a statement on social media.
His remarks come as rival Tigray forces close in on the capital Addis Ababa, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency earlier this month.
Thousands of people have already been killed in the war between government forces, and fighters from the northern Tigray region. *) Several killed in bus crash in Bulgaria
At least 45 people have been killed in western Bulgaria when a bus with North Macedonian plates caught fire on a highway, officials said.
There were children among the victims, and seven people with burns were rushed to hospital in the capital Sofia, local news reported. The cause of the accident has yet to be determined. *) Wisconsin driver to face homicide charges for Christmas parade deaths
The driver of the car that ploughed into a Christmas parade in the US state of Wisconsin will be charged with multiple counts of intentional homicide.
Five people were killed and 48 injured when the suspect drove an SUV into the crowd in Waukesha.
Police say he had left the scene of a domestic dispute minutes before, and that there is no evidence the incident was a terrorist attack.
*) Belarusian president calls for European powers to work with Minsk
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko says he does not want confrontation with Poland, but he says if the situation at the border remains the same, war will be “unavoidable.”
Lukashenko has called on European leaders to work with Minsk to solve the migrant crisis.
He proposed Germany take in two thousand migrants, and that the remaining five thousand be repatriated - a request Berlin has rejected.
Poland and its Western allies have accused Minsk of instigating the crisis.
And finally… *) Kevin Spacey ordered to pay $31M for ‘House of Cards’ losses
Kevin Spacey and his production companies must pay the studio behind “House of Cards” more than $30 million because of losses brought on by his firing for sexual misconduct.
A document filed in Los Angeles Superior Court requesting a judge's approval of the ruling says that arbitrators found that Spacey violated his contract's demands for professional behavior.
MRC, the studio behind “House of Cards,” had to fire Spacey, halt production of the show's sixth season, rewrite it to remove Spacey's central character, and shorten it from 13 to eight episodes to meet deadlines.
The 62-year-old Oscar winner's career came to an abrupt halt late in 2017 as the #MeToo movement gained momentum.
*) Several killed after SUV plows into Christmas parade in Wisconsin
At least 5 people died and more than 40 others were injured in the US state of Wisconsin after a vehicle drove into a busy Christmas parade in Waukesha.
US authorities confirmed the deaths in a statement.
Police said the numbers could change as many people transported themselves to hospitals. A person of interest was in custody but no details have been given on a possible motive. *) European cities hit with wave of protests against renewed Covid curbs
A fresh wave of protests has broken out in several European cities and in some French overseas territories over coronavirus restrictions. Police and protesters clashed in the Belgian capital Brussels, several Dutch and Austrian cities, and in the French Caribbean territory Guadeloupe. Europe is battling another wave of infections and several countries have tightened curbs despite high levels of vaccination, especially in the west of the continent. *) Protests in Sudan continue despite deal reached by military, civilian leaders A political agreement has been signed in Sudan which will see Abdalla Hamdok reinstated as prime minister following October's military coup.
Top general Abdel Fattah al Burhan signed the agreement on Sunday which guarantees a return to transitional civilian rule and the release of all political prisoners.
But many aren't convinced the agreement represents the demands of the Sudanese people, as anti-coup protests continue across the country. *) Chile heads towards polarising presidential runoff
Chile's far-right former congressman is on track to win the first-round in the country's presidential election
Early results show Jose Antonio Kast in the lead followed closely by leftist lawmaker Gabriel Boric.
The pair will likely face-off in a run-off election next month. Sunday's vote will not only determine the president, but also members of congress and regional councils.
The vote comes after years of tense protests, with Chileans demanding better living standards.
And finally... *) Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai tells IOC she is 'safe and well'
The International Olympic Committee says Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai told its president that she is safe and well, during a video call on Sunday.
Peng told Thomas Bach that she was at her home in Beijing, and asked that her privacy be respected.
Peng had not been seen or heard from since she accused the country's former vice-premier Zhang Gaoli of sexually assaulting her — prompting global concerns over her safety.
*) India’s Modi withdraws controversial farm laws
After more than a year of Indian farmers displaying massive street power, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repealed three highly controversial agricultural reform laws.
Farmers were against the laws as they would no longer be assured of a minimum price for their crops.
At the time, the government said the reforms were essential to modernise the nation but has now backed down ahead of elections in three heavily agrarian states.
*) Sudan's police chief denies role in protester deaths
Sudan’s police chief has defended his security forces after at least 15 people were killed by live fire at Wednesday's protests against last month’s coup.
Lieutenant General Khalid Mahdi Ibrahim said security forces only used legal means to contain protests.
Wednesday’s deaths brought the overall death toll since the coup to at least 39.
*) Belarus clears main refugee camps at EU border
Belarus has cleared the main camps where refugees were sheltering at the border with Poland.
Belarus state media said late on Thursday that the refugees sheltering in the forest had been taken to a warehouse away from the Polish border.
The EU has accused Belarus of deliberately creating the crisis by flying in refugees and forcing them to attempt illegal border crossings into Poland and Lithuania.
Minsk denies "orchestrating" the crisis and both sides have agreed to talks.
*) World Food Programme drivers released after weeklong detention in Ethiopia
All of the World Food Programme drivers and UN workers arrested by the Ethiopian government in the north have been released.
Ethiopia arrested 72 drivers in Afar province, on the only functional road leading into the conflict-and-famine-hit region of Tigray.
The arrests follow an escalation of conflict between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government and Tigray forces in early November – when the rebels threatened to besiege capital Addis Ababa.
*) Deforestation of Amazon surges to highest levels since 2006
The deforested area in Brazil's Amazon has reached a 15-year high, after a 22 percent jump from the previous year.
The Amazon lost 13,235 square kilometres of rainforest in the 12 months from August 2020 to July 2021, according to the National Institute for Space Research.
Brazil's Amazon had not recorded a single year with more than 10,000 square kilometres of deforestation in over a decade before Jair Bolsonaro’s term started.
*) UN envoy warns Afghan Taliban unable to thwart Daesh on its own
A UN envoy has warned that the Taliban has proven unable to prevent the growth of the Daesh Afghanistan affiliate.
Deborah Lyons told the UN Security Council that the terrorist group has grown from being in only "a few provinces and Kabul" to now being present "in nearly all" of the country”.
She said the group has dramatically increased attacks. These include 13 attacks in the second half of August, 38 in September and 48 the following month.
*) Sudan forces shoot dead anti-coup protesters
Sudan's security forces have shot dead at least 15 anti-coup protesters and wounded dozens more in the bloodiest day since the military's October 25 takeover.
The Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors said most of Wednesday's casualties had suffered gunshot wounds to the head, neck or torso.
At least 38 people have died in unrest in Sudan since the military seized power.
*) Merkel, Lukashenko agree on talks with EU on border crisis
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have agreed that Minsk and Brussels should discuss the crisis on the EU border.
The EU holds Belarus responsible for flying in and then transporting refugees to Poland's frontier, an accusation Lukashenko denies.
Thousands of refugees and migrants have been stuck at the border since November 8, and want to reach Germany or other western European countries.
*) Canada's British Columbia declares state of emergency
Canada's province of British Columbia has declared a state of emergency after devastating floodwaters and mudslides.
Officials said downpours in British Columbia this week trapped motorists in mudslides that left at least one person dead and four missing.
Thousands of people have been evacuated as unprecedented rainfall over two days caused rivers to overflow banks and flood entire communities.
*) Missing Chinese tennis star issues a statement but concerns deepen for her safety
Chinese media has issued what they said was a #metoo retraction by a Grand Slam doubles champion who accused a top politician of sexual assault.
But WTA Chair and CEO Steve Simon said that a statement attributed to Peng Shuai only raises his concerns "as to her safety and whereabouts.”
In a detailed social media post earlier this month, Peng said an ex-vice premier and member of the Communist Party forced her to have sex despite her refusals.
Peng went silent after her accusation was scrubbed from China's internet, with her retraction the first statement attributed to her since.
*) Poles fire tear gas, water cannon at migrants on Belarus border
Polish forces have fired tear gas and water cannon at refugees at the Belarusian border, sparking accusations from Belarus that Poland was trying to escalate the crisis.
Up to 4,000 refugees and migrants are camped out on the frontier between Poland and Belarus in increasingly dire conditions and freezing temperatures.
The European Union accuses Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko of orchestrating the crisis by luring people to the border to retaliate against the bloc's sanctions.
*)Tensions stabilised at Azerbaijan, Armenia border
Clashes on the Azerbaijan-Armenia border have ceased after both countries took steps to stabilise the situation.
A statement from the Russian Defence Ministry said the border is currently back to normal.
Azerbaijan had earlier said that the Armenian forces carried out “large-scale provocations” against the combat posts of the Azerbaijani army, injuring at least two soldiers.
*) Saudi-led coalition in Yemen kills scores of Houthis
The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has claimed that it killed 130 Houthi rebels in military operations in the past 24 hours.
It also destroyed 16 military vehicles, the coalition said.
But the Houthi rebel group maintains only 12 of its fighters were killed.
*) UN Palestinian refugee agency faces 'existential threat'
The UN agency for Palestinian refugees has fallen well short of its target to plug a 100 million dollar gap this year and secure long-term funding despite fresh pledges from donors.
UNRWA warned it was facing an "existential" threat as it urged the international community to commit to more stable financing at a conference in Brussels on Tuesday.
It said donors committed an extra $38 million for this year, leaving the agency some $60 million short.
The UN agency needs to find $800 million a year going forward.
And finally...
*) 'Harry Potter' stars, excluding J.K. Rowling, to reunite for TV special
"Harry Potter" stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint are reuniting with other cast members for a special 20th anniversary TV retrospective.
But "Harry Potter" author JK Rowling will not be among those making a personal appearance on the show.
The special will be broadcast on January 1st on the streaming platform HBO Max.
*) Biden, Xi try to tamp down tensions at virtual meeting
US President Joe Biden and China's Xi Jinping have traded strong warnings on the future of Taiwan during a virtual meeting held to settle an increasingly volatile relationship.
The leaders of the two superpowers agreed on the need to tread carefully amid mounting tensions and intense competition.
Biden raised concerns about China's practices in Tibet, Hong Kong and the Xinjiang region and Xi warned of Taiwan "red line", according to statements from both sides after the meeting.
*) Myanmar military charges Suu Kyi with fraud over 2020 elections
Myanmar's junta has charged ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi with electoral fraud in the 2020 polls that her party won in a landslide.
Suu Kyi was accused of "election fraud and lawless actions," state-run newspaper Global New Light of Myanmar reported.
Fifteen other officials, including former president Win Myint and the chair of the election commission, face the same charge.
*) Russia, Belarus signal willingness to de-escalate migrant crisis
Russia and Belarus have both signalled willingness to de-escalate the refugee crisis at the border with Europe after frantic diplomacy by European leaders.
French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed tensions on the Poland-Belarus border had to be defused, Macron's office said.
The same day, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko and German Chancellor Angela Merkel held a phone conversation about the refugee crisis and measures to prevent it from escalating.
The diplomatic huddles took place after the EU agreed to expand sanctions on Belarus, which Brussels accuses of causing the crisis by flying in refugees and pushing them to cross illegally into Poland.
*) UN relief agency for Palestinians is on verge of collapse
The UN Relief Agency for Palestinian refugees is holding a donor conference to make up a 100-million dollar shortfall.
Budget cuts have pushed the agency close to collapse.
The agency helps Palestinian refugees not only in the occupied territories but also in Jordan and Lebanon.
And finally...
*) US blasts Russia for space missile test that put ISS crew in danger
The United States has criticised Russia for conducting a missile strike that blew up one of its own satellites.
The strike created more than 1,500 pieces of space junk now "threatening" the seven astronauts aboard the International Space Station.
Washington said it was not informed in advance about the test, only the fourth ever to hit a spacecraft from the ground, and will talk to allies about how to respond.
Iraq to start repatriating citizens in Belarus
The Iraqi government is organising voluntary repatriations starting Thursday for its citizens stuck on the Poland-Belarus border amid a brewing standoff.
Iraq estimated 571 Iraqi citizens are in eight camps on the border between Belarus and Poland where thousands of refugees are trapped in freezing conditions.
Europe has accused Belarus of mounting "a hybrid attack" by flying in refugees and asylum seekers and pushing them to cross illegally into Poland.
*) Kenya president holds talks in Ethiopia as conflict worsens
Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has visited Ethiopia for security talks, amid global calls for a ceasefire in the Tigray region.
It was Kenyatta's second visit to Addis Ababa over the escalation in the year-long war in northern Ethiopia between the armed forces and the T-P-L-F.
Kenyatta's trip also preceded the 5-day visit from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal.
Thousands have died and more than two million people displaced in the fighting in Ethiopia since last November.
*) UK counter-terror police arrest multiple suspects after Liverpool car blast
British police have announced the arrests of three men after a taxi exploded in front of Liverpool Women's Hospital on Sunday, killing one person and wounding another.
The three men, aged 29, 26 and 21, were arrested in Liverpool's Kensington district under anti-terror laws.
The police said a male passenger in the car was declared dead at the scene, while the driver, also a man, was wounded and is in hospital in a stable condition.
*) Biden and Xi to hold virtual meeting amid global, regional tensions
US President Joe Biden and China's head of state Xi Jinping are holding a virtual meeting on Monday, amid strained relations between the two countries.
It will be their first direct encounter since a tense 90-minute phone call in September.
In a letter, Xi said he hoped the two leaders could work on the condition of "mutual respect," adding both nations will "only gain from co-operation, not confrontation."
And finally...
*) South Africa pulls support for Miss Universe candidate over Israel
South Africa's government has withdrawn support for Miss South Africa after it was unable to convince local organisers to boycott next month's Miss Universe pageant, which is taking place in Israel.
South Africa has long accused Israel of committing atrocities against Palestinians, likening their actions to Apartheid.
Officials asked organisers of the South African pageant to reconsider taking part in the global event but failed to persuade them as pageant organisers say the beauty contest is not political.
Contestants from 77 countries and territories will compete at the Miss Universe pageant in Eilat on December 12th.
*) Sudan's army chief appoints himself head of new ruling council
Sudan’s military ruler Abdel Fattah al Burhan has formed a new transitional council headed by himself to lead the country following last month's military coup.
The council includes representatives of rebel groups that reached a peace deal with the government last year, as well as regional Sudanese figures.
Last month’s takeover ended a power-sharing deal between the military and civilians that was meant to lead to elections in late 2023.
*) Ukraine to deploy thousands of guards for drills at Belarus border
Kiev has said that it would deploy thousands of border guards and security personnel to its border with Belarus.
The decision comes as EU blames Belarus for pushing migrants into the bloc via its Polish border in retaliation for sanctions against Lukashenko's government.
Polish authorities said they stopped at least two groups of migrants from crossing the border from Belarus overnight.
*) Russian air strike on Syria farm kills civilians
Russian air strikes have killed five members of a family in Syria’s opposition-held region Idlib.
The bombings targeted a farm in the country’s northwestern province, leaving three children dead, according to a Syrian opposition aircraft observatory.
Air strikes also targeted the town of Maarrat Misrin in northern Idlib where most refugee camps are concentrated.
*) US, Gulf states and Israel hold first joint naval drills
A year after normalising ties with Tel-Aviv, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have held their first joint naval exercise with Israel.
The US Navy, which also participated, said the five-day manoeuvres in the Red Sea began on Wednesday and are linked to the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal.
The US said the drills are intended to "enhance inter-operability between participating forces".
And finally...
*) Niantic kicks off Lightship to build AR App
Gaming company Niantic is releasing a platform for building what it calls “real-world metaverse” apps, stitching together the digital and the real world.
Called Lightship, the platform will allow mobile apps to identify whether a user’s camera is pointed at the sky or water.
It will also map the surfaces and depth of an environment in real-time, or place a virtual object behind a physical one.
*) EU accuses Belarus of 'trafficking' migrants toward border
The European Union has accused Belarus of state-sponsored human "trafficking” by luring desperate migrants to the Polish border – the edge of the EU.
Polish authorities estimate up to 4,000 migrants have gathered along its border with Belarus, where many are now stuck in makeshift camps in freezing weather.
One EU leader said the bloc was considering the idea of funding the construction of a wall on its eastern border, an idea that will face many humanitarian obstacles.
*) Taliban to enforce Islamic law in Afghanistan
The Taliban has announced the establishment of a military tribunal to enforce Islamic law in Afghanistan.
The group’s spokesperson said the tribunal has been formed following the command of Taliban supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada.
The military tribunal will have the authority to interpret Islamic rulings, issue decrees relevant to Islamic civil laws and jurisprudence in high-level cases.
*) China's leader Xi warns against 'Cold War' in Indo-Pacific
China's President Xi Jinping has warned against returning to Cold War-era tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
His remarks come amid growing tensions with Washington over Taiwan and after the US, Britain and Australia announced a new security alliance in the region.
Current tensions have been partially offset by a surprise deal between Beijing and Washington on climate.
Xi is expected to participate in an online meeting with other Pacific Rim leaders, including President Biden, on Saturday.
*) COP26: Countries launch plan for green shipping corridors
A 19-member coalition, including the UK and US, has agreed on creating zero-emission shipping trade routes between ports.
The "Clydebank Declaration" was launched at the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow and aims to establish at least six green corridors by 2025.
The corridors will require developing supplies of zero-emission fuels, the infrastructure required for decarbonisation and regulatory frameworks.
And finally...
*) Finland to let workers see colleagues’ salaries to close gender pay gap
Finland is planning a new law allowing workers to check what their colleagues are earning if they suspect a wage gap between men and women.
The bill has been criticised by workers' unions, which want more transparency, as well as big companies, which say it would create conflict in the workplace.
But the centre-left five-party coalition of Prime Minister Sanna Marin is pushing ahead to pass the bill before elections in April 2023.
*) Tensions rise in migrant standoff at Poland-Belarus border
Poland has reinforced its border with more riot police as Belarus encourages refugees and migrants to try to enter the EU from its eastern frontier.
The European Union has accused Belarus of trying to destabilise the bloc by encouraging migrants to enter illegally to retaliate against EU sanctions.
The bloc said it is close to imposing more sanctions on Belarus.
Poland reported many migrants attempted to cross overnight as thousands of people remain trapped in freezing conditions at the border.
*) UN working to secure release of staff detained in Addis Ababa
At least 16 United Nations staff members have been detained in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa.
The organisation says it is working with the government to secure their freedom.
The latest detentions follow the release of six other staff members, as tensions between the government and the UN have been high since the start of the war between the state and Tigrayan forces last year.
*) Afghan FM to meet Pakistani officials in first visit since Taliban takeover
Amir Khan Muttaqi, the interim Afghan foreign minister, will visit Pakistan for the first time since the Taliban retook power in Afghanistan.
A senior-level delegation led by Muttaqi is travelling to Pakistan on Wednesday, a spokesperson of Afghanistan's Foreign Ministry said.
The Afghan Taliban government recently helped facilitate a ceasefire between the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan and the TTP, the Pakistani Taliban.
*) Top UAE diplomat visits Syria for the first time in over a decade
The foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates has met with Syria’s widely shunned regime leader Bashar al Assad in Damascus.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan's visit is the first by a UAE foreign minister since Syria's war began a decade ago. It comes as some Arab states improve relations with the Assad regime.
During the meeting, the foreign minister "underlined UAE's keenness on ensuring the security, stability and unity of Syria," according to Emirati state media.
And finally…
*) 'Squid Game' director predicts second season of megahit series
The director of "Squid Game," the dystopian South Korean series on Netflix, expressed confidence that the wildly popular show will return for a second season.
Writer-director Hwang Dong-hyuk said in an interview that they are in the brainstorming stages for season two, with the basic storyline already in his head.
Actor Lee Jung-Jae, Hwang and others involved in the show, one of Netflix's biggest hits ever, attended a special Hollywood screening on Monday to celebrate its success.
*) Poland blocks 'mass attempt' by migrants to breach border with Belarus
Poland has blocked a bid by hundreds of migrants to enter the country from Belarus, warning of an "armed" escalation.
The European Union says President Lukashenko has encouraged the migrant flow in retaliation for existing EU sanctions imposed over Belarus's human rights record.
Both Poland and Lithuania have deployed more troops towards their borders with Belarus which claims it has not manufactured the crisis.
*) Poverty soars in blockaed Gaza
The poverty rate in blockaded Gaza has risen to 59 percent from 43 percent five years ago due to "very high unemployment and deteriorating social conditions".
A World Bank report said unemployment in Gaza stood at 45 percent.
Gaza was hit hard during 11-days of devastating conflict with Israel in May, adding to existing economic woes caused by the years-long blockade and Covid-19 restrictions, the report said.
*) US envoy returns to Ethiopia in bid to resolve ongoing conflict
The US Envoy for Horn of Africa is back in Ethiopia for talks on the escalating conflict between Tigrayan forces and the government.
Jeffrey Feltman is meeting with his African Union counterpart Olusegun Obasanjo who warned there is little time to reverse the crisis in northern Ethiopia.
Thousands of people are believed to have been killed since fighting in northern Ethiopia started a year ago, and more than two million have been displaced.
*) Six of Donald Trump's allies hit with subpoenas over insurrection
Six allies of former US president Donald Trump have been subpoenaed as part of an ongoing probe into the January 6 Capitol Hill riot.
A US House committee is investigating whether there was an effort by the Trump campaign to stop the certification of Joe Biden's election win.
Campaign manager Bill Stepien, adviser Jason Miller and security adviser Michael Flynn are all being looked into.
And finally…
*) SpaceX returns ISS astronauts to Earth after 200-day flight
A SpaceX capsule carrying four astronauts back to Earth after a busy six months on the International Space Station landed off the coast of Florida.
Slowed by the Earth's atmosphere, as well as four huge parachutes, the Dragon capsule was able to withstand the dizzying descent thanks to its heat shield.
The crew consisting of two Americans, a Frenchman and one Japanese astronaut conducted hundreds of experiments and helped upgrade the space station's solar panels.
*) US reopens borders to vaccinated visitors after 20 months
The United States has reopened its land and air borders to foreign visitors fully vaccinated against Covid-19, ending 20 months of restrictions on travel.
US borders were closed by the Trump administration after March 2020 to travellers from large parts of the world in response to the pandemic.
Lifting the travel ban will affect more than 30 countries, but entry into the US will not be unregulated.
US authorities will closely monitor travellers' vaccination status and still require many of them to present negative Covid-19 tests.
*) Polls close in Nicaragua with Daniel Ortega on track for fourth term
Nicaraguans have voted in presidential elections denounced by US President Joe Biden as a "sham.”
Polling stations closed after 11 hours of voting under the watchful eye of 30,000 police and soldiers. International observers were not allowed.
With seven would-be presidential challengers detained since June, long-term leader Daniel Ortega is assured a fourth five-year term.
*) Azerbaijan celebrates first anniversary of Karabakh victory
People in Azerbaijan are celebrating the first anniversary of "Victory Day" after last year's war with Armenia.
On November 8, 2020, Azerbaijani forces recaptured the historic city of Shusha in Karabakh from Armenian militias, bringing an end to fighting with Armenian forces.
Azerbaijan has started rebuilding the region but a permanent peace deal still seems a long way off, following 30 years of conflict that has cost tens of thousands of lives.
*) China's Communist Party starts four-day meeting
The top leaders of China's ruling Communist Party have started a pivotal meeting expected to further firm President Xi Jinping's grip on power.
Some 400 members of the party's powerful Central Committee gathered in Beijing for the four-day plenary.
State news agency Xinhua said Xi opened the meeting with a draft resolution that will set the stage for his expected third term in office.
And finally…
*) Elon Musk to use Twitter poll to sell 10% of his company's stock
People on Twitter have voted in favour of Tesla CEO Elon Musk selling about 10 percent of his stock in the company.
The multi-billionaire had asked his nearly 63 million followers on Twitter to help him decide the future of his Tesla holdings.
Musk says he will accept the result. Ten percent of the Tesla owner's stock is valued at about 21 billion dollars.
Tesla's shares fell about 9 percent in early trading on Monday as investors prepared for Musk's sale.
*) Several nations pledge to end overseas fossil fuel finance
The United States, Canada and 18 other countries have committed at the COP26 climate summit to stop public financing for fossil fuel projects abroad.
That would cover coal, oil and gas projects that are "unabated" – meaning that they burn fossil fuels without using technology to capture CO2 emissions.
The commitment starts by the end of next year, funnelling their spending into clean energy instead, but does not include major Asian countries responsible for the bulk of such financing abroad.
*) Sudan military orders detained ministers released amid global pressure
Sudan's top general has ordered the release of four ministers who were detained amid a coup last week.
Moez Hadra, a defence lawyer for the deposed officials, said they have yet to be freed.
Top generals and former civilian leaders are in tense negotiations seeking a solution to the crisis sparked by the military takeover.
*) Clashes leave hundreds dead in and around Yemen's Marib
At least 200 fighters have been killed and hundreds wounded in clashes between Yemen's government forces and Houthi rebels over the last two days.
Security officials from both sides have said that the clashes are taking place in and around the strategic central province of Marib.
Most of the casualties belonged to the Houthis, who have recently taken most of Marib's 14 districts as they advance towards the capital of the province.
*) UK becomes first country to authorise anti-Covid pill
Britain has granted conditional authorisation to the only pill shown to successfully treat Covid-19 so far, becoming the first country to approve the treatment from Merck.
The pill was licensed for adults who have tested positive for Covid-19 and have at least one risk factor for developing severe disease, such as obesity or heart disease.
Patients with mild-to-moderate Covid-19 would take four pills of the drug, called molnupiravir, twice a day for five days.
And finally…
*) ABBA return with new album after 40-year hiatus
Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! Swedish pop sensation ABBA has made a comeback with their new album "Voyage", nearly 40 years after they split up.
Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid have not released any music since they split in 1982, a year after their last album "The Visitors".
"Voyage" went live at midnight on Thursday in various time zones, to the delight of longtime fans worldwide.
*) Rebels say Ethiopia capital could fall within weeks
Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa could fall within "months if not weeks", an Oromo group allied with Tigrayan rebels has told AFP.
The Tigray People's Liberation Front has claimed significant gains in recent days.
Ethiopia’s prime minister urged civilians to rise up and “bury”the Tigray forces in a post that Facebook has removed over incitement of violence.
As fighting between rebels and Abiy Ahmed's government drags on, a joint UN-Ethiopia report reveals possible "crimes against humanity" by all sides.
*) Pentagon finds no misconduct in Afghanistan drone strike
A Pentagon review has concluded that the drone strike that killed Afghan children a few days before the US quit Afghanistan was not caused by misconduct or negligence.
It did not recommend any disciplinary action.
The review found breakdowns in communication and in the process of identifying the target of the bombing.
It concluded the mistaken strike happened despite prudent measures to prevent civilian deaths.
*) Global CO2 emissions for 2021 near record levels: report
Global CO2 emissions, caused mainly by burning fossil fuels, are expected to be just shy of the record set in 2019.
China's carbon pollution now accounts for nearly a third of global emissions, the Global Carbon Project reported. The report comes as the COP26 summit grapples for ways to beat back the threat of catastrophic warming.
Emissions from gas and highly polluting coal will grow more in 2021 than they fell in 2020 during the pandemic-driven economic slowdown, the report said.
*) International Criminal Court to probe abuses in Venezuela
The International Criminal Court is opening a formal investigation into allegations of torture and extrajudicial killings committed by Venezuelan security forces.
It’s the first time a country in Latin America is facing scrutiny for possible crimes against humanity from the court.
ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan said he was aware of Venezuela's political “fault lines” and “geopolitical divisions" but that his job was to uphold law, not settle scores.
And finally…
*) South African author Damon Galgut wins Booker Prize
South African author Damon Galgut has won the Booker Prize for "The Promise", a novel about a white family's failed commitment to give their Black maid her own home.
It was Galgut's third nomination for the $68,175 English language literary award.
Galgut, wrote his first novel at the age of 17 and has been nominated for the Booker Prize twice before.
*) Ethiopia declares nationwide state of emergency
Ethiopia has declared a nationwide state of emergency after rebel forces from the region of Tigray gained some territory and considering marching on Addis Ababa.
"The state of emergency is aimed to protect civilians from atrocities," state-affiliated media reported, refe rring to the Tigray People's Liberation Front.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres voiced concern on Tuesday about the state of emergency, reiterating his call for an end to hostilities and unrestricted humanitarian access.
*) COP26: Some 100 nations pledge to slash methane emissions
Nearly 100 countries have joined a US and EU pledge to cut emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, by 30 percent this decade.
It is the most significant climate commitment so far at the COP26.
The initiative can have a powerful short-term impact on global heating and followed an agreement to end deforestation by 2030.
*) Palestinian families reject offer by Jewish settlers
Palestinian families in Sheikh Jarrah in the occupied East Jerusalem have rejected a deal to delay their eviction by illegal Jewish settlers.
The offer made by Israel's Supreme Court earlier this month would have blocked any eviction and demolition order for at least the next 15 years.
But it would have forced the Palestinian families to acknowledge the Jewish settlers' ownership of the properties.
The families’ plight ignited protests and clashes earlier this year that eventually led to the 11-day Israeli siege on blockaded Gaza.
*) CDC recommends pediatric Covid-19 vaccine for children
The US Centers for Disease Control has approved a low-dose Covid vaccine by Pfizer for children between the ages of five and 11.
The FDA has authorised a 10-microgram paediatric dose of the Pfizer vaccine. The original shot given to those age 12 and older contains 30 micrograms.
In clinical trials, vaccine side effects were mild, self-limiting, and similar to those seen in adults, the US CDC said.
And finally…
*) Grammy-winning trumpeter performs in Istanbul
A performance by Grammy-winning jazz trumpeter Chris Botti has taken Istanbul back to a pre-pandemic era of big concerts and live music.
Botti's return to stage in Istanbul was part of a series of celebrations marking the opening of the Ataturk Culture Centre.
Botti was accompanied by a top ensemble which included Leonardo Amuedo on guitar, Chad Lefkowitz Brown on sax and Sy Smith, Veronica Swift and Jonathan Johnson on vocals.
*) Over 100 global leaders pledge to end deforestation by 2030
More than 100 global leaders have pledged to halt and reverse deforestation and land degradation by the end of the decade.
The agreement at the COP26 climate talks was underpinned by $19 billion in public and private funds to invest in protecting and restoring forests.
The Glasgow Leaders' Declaration on Forest and Land Use will cover forests totalling more than 33 million square kilometres.
*) China, Russia revive push to lift UN sanctions on North Korea
China and Russia are pushing the UN Security Council to ease sanctions on North Korea.
Both countries want to revive a 2019 attempt to remove a ban on Pyongyang's exports of statues, seafood and textiles and expand it to lift a refined petroleum imports cap.
North Korea has been subject to UN sanctions since 2006 over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
*) Six dead, 100 feared missing in Nigeria after collapse of high-rise
At least six people have been killed and 100 believed to be missing in Nigeria after a residential high-rise under construction in Lagos collapsed.
The luxury building collapsed on Monday, trapping workers under a pile of concrete rubble, witnesses said.
Around 100 people were reportedly at work when the building came crashing down.
*) France delays trade sanctions on the UK for a day
France has postponed planned trade sanctions on Britain for a day so both sides could work on new proposals to defuse their dispute over post-Brexit fishing rights.
France said it would restrict cross-Channel trade starting from Monday night, threatening to turn bickering over fish into a wider dispute between two of Europe's biggest economies.
But President Emmanuel Macron said the plan was on hold pending the outcome of renewed talks, after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Glasgow earlier on Monday.
And finally…
*) Iraq's Babylon arts festival back after almost two-decade hiatus
Showcasing traditional dance, music and arts, Iraq's Babylon International Festival has attracted thousands of fans for the first time in two war-scarred decades.
The festival, staged in what was the capital of the ancient Mesopotamian state of Babylonia, has drawn artists from dozens of countries as well as homegrown talent.
The last edition of the festival was held in 2002, the year before the US-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.
*) G20 nations back key climate goal as eyes turn to Glasgow
G20 leaders have failed to commit to a 2050 deadline for halting net carbon emissions.
Climate activists slammed the G20's "lack of ambition" as make-or-break UN climate talks opened in Glasgow.
The statement issued by the G20 big economies on Sunday called for "meaningful action" to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
But it contained few concrete actions and did not refer to a specific 2050 date to achieve net zero carbon emissions that scientists say is vital.
*) Japan’s ruling party wins clear majority in Sunday's election
In Japan, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has won a clear majority in Sunday's election, claiming 261 seats in the lower house.
The vote was seen as a major test for PM Fumio Kishida, who called the elections just 10 days after assuming office.
A former banker, Kishida has vowed to address wealth inequality and pushed for increased military spending.
*) Sudan's military ruler sacks country's public prosecutor
Sudan's army chief and coup leader Abdel Fattah al Burhan has fired the public prosecutor, according to state media.
That's as hundreds of thousands of people have been rallying nationwide, demanding a return to democratic rule. The death toll from the anti-military demonstrations now stands at 12.
The UN's envoy to Sudan has held talks with deposed prime minister Abdalla Hamdok to discuss mediation options.
*) Erdogan: Biden 'showed positive attitude' regarding F-16 jets
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said his US counterpart Joe Biden showed a "positive attitude" on the issue of modernising Turkey’s F-16 fighter jets.
Erdogan made the statement after meeting with Biden in Rome on Sunday.
In the meeting, Biden reaffirmed Turkey's importance as a NATO ally as well as its defence partnership with the US, the White House said in a statement.
And finally…
*) 'Dune' leads North America box office despite drop in ticket sales
Ticket sales of "Dune" lost 62 percent from its debut weekend but the sci-fi thriller still held its lead in the North American box office in its second weekend.
The movie has an estimated take of $15.5 million, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported on Sunday.
"Dune" follows a family in the distant future fighting for survival on a desert planet plagued by monstrous sandworms.
*) New street clashes rock Sudan's capital as UN slams coup
Sudanese security forces have clashed with protesters furious over a military coup that has derailed Sudan's transition to democracy.
At least 11 people have been killed, after a fourth consecutive day of street violence in Khartoum, medics say.
Meanwhile, the UN Security Council and US President Joe Biden called for a restoration of the civilian-led government toppled by the army.
*) Biden announces $1.75 trillion social spending plan
US President Joe Biden has announced a revised $1.75 trillion social spending plan that he is confident Democrats will support, ending weeks of wrangling.
Biden’s Build Back Better Act will be spent on education, childcare, clean energy and other social services but paid family leave and free two-year college were dropped. The president and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had pushed for a vote on the scaled back version of the bill, but progressives say they're not there yet.
*) France detains British trawler, fines boats amid deepening fishing row
French authorities have fined two British fishing vessels and detained one of them as a dispute over fishing licenses between the countries deepens. The French Sea Ministry said the trawler did not have a fishing licence but Britain's environment minister refuted it, arguing the European Union had granted one. It comes after France announced it would bar British fishing boats from some French ports from next week if no deal is reached with the UK over fishing licenses. *) Houthi missile attack kills over a dozen people in Yemen's Marib
At least 12 people have been killed and 20 others wounded in a missile attack carried out by Houthi rebels in Yemen's Marib province. Yemen’s Information Minister Muammar al Iryani said that Iranian-made ballistic missiles targeted a civilian settlement in Marib, destroying four homes and a mosque. The attack came as the Saudi-led coalition announced that it killed 95 Houthi rebels in an operation near Marib.
And finally…
*) Facebook rebrands itself 'Meta' to emphasize ‘metaverse’ vision
Facebook is rebranding itself as Meta in an effort to encompass its virtual-reality vision for the future, what it’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg calls the “metaverse.” Zuckerberg aims for the metaverse to be a new ecosystem where people will be able to interact, work and create products and content. Skeptics say the move could seek to divert attention away from the Facebook Papers, a leaked document trove that shows how the company failed to respond to warnings regarding the harms of its social network.
*) Security tightens grip in coup-hit Sudan as global pressure bites
Sudan’s security forces have made sweeping arrests of critics and protesters as they seek to stamp out opposition to this week's military coup.
Security personnel were seen firing tear gas and rubber bullets at dozens of protesters in Khartoum.
The international community has ramped up punitive measures. The World Bank blocked aid and the African Union suspended Sudan over Monday's power grab by the army.
*) Israel advances plans for over 3,000 settler homes in occupied West Bank
Israel has advanced plans to build more than 3,000 settler homes in the occupied West Bank.
That’s according to a military spokesperson who made the comments a day after the US forcefully criticised such construction.
Israel gave the final green light to build 1,800 settler homes in the occupied West Bank and initial approval for another 1,344.
*) Several Pakistani police killed by gunfire at rally of banned group
Three Pakistani police officers have been killed and 70 people wounded during a rally of the banned group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan.
Officials said that eight of those wounded were in critical condition and paramilitary troops in Punjab province had been called on to help manage the situation for the next 60 days.
The clash broke out at a rally of the banned TLP on a highway just outside the eastern city of Lahore, a Punjab police spokesman said.
*) Taiwan president confirms US troops training soldiers on island
A small number of US forces are training Taiwan's soldiers to increase the island’s defence capability.
President Tsai Ing-wen's comments to CNN confirm the presence of US troops on the self-governing island that China considers its own.
Tensions between Taiwan and China have escalated in recent weeks as Beijing raises military and political pressure.
*) Gun not thoroughly checked before Alec Baldwin fired fatal shot
Investigators in the US say a .45-caliber Colt revolver used on the set of the film "Rust" was not thoroughly checked before being given to actor Alec Baldwin.
Last week, Baldwin fired a live lead bullet in an accidental shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal in New Mexico.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said there was a complacent attitude toward safety on the set before the shooting.
*) Brazil Senate report backs criminal charges against Bolsonaro
A Senate committee has recommended Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro face a series of criminal charges over his government's Covid-19 response.
The committee suggested prosecutors put Bolsonaro on trial for charges ranging from inciting crime, to misuse of public funds and crimes against humanity.
Brazil has the world's second-highest death toll from the virus.
*) Protests grow larger in Sudan
Demonstrations against the military takeover of Sudan have brought much of the capital Khartoum to a halt with protesters calling for a return to civilian rule. The ousted prime minister Abdalla Hamdok and his wife are back at home, after being detained at the military chief's residence on Monday. Soldiers detained Hamdok, his ministers and members of Sudan's ruling council, who have been heading a transition to civilian rule after the 2019 overthrow of leader Omar al Bashir.
*) Turkish parliament approves cross border operations in northern Iraq, Syria
Turkey’s parliament has approved a motion that will extend Ankara's authority to launch cross-border military operations in northern Iraq and Syria for two more years.
The ruling allows Turkey to deploy troops and expand its missions in Iraq and Syria.
Turkey has long decried the threat from terrorists east of the Euphrates River in northern Syria, pledging military action to prevent the formation of a "terrorist corridor".
*) Colombia says 42,600 hectares deforested in Amazon in first half of 2021
Some 42,600 hectares of rainforest were destroyed in Colombia's Amazon across three of the Andean country's provinces in the first half of 2021.
That’s according to the government who says the figure represents a 34 percent decrease in deforestation across the provinces of Caqueta, Meta and Guaviare.
Deforestation in Colombia rose 8 percent to 171,685 hectares in 2020, driven mainly by cattle ranching and agricultural expansion.
And finally…
*) Pakistan sink New Zealand in World Cup 'grudge match'
Pakistan has beat New Zealand by five wickets in Sharjah to secure a second straight victory in the cricket T20 World Cup tournament.
The win came over a month after New Zealand's shock abandonment of their Pakistan tour due to an unspecified "security alert".
New Zealand in September ended its tour minutes before the start of the first one-day international in Rawalpindi.
*) Several killed during violent military coup in Sudan
Several people were killed during a violent military coup in Sudan while demanding the release of civilian leaders, including the prime minister.
Hundreds were also injured as soldiers opened fire on citizens who took to the streets to try and stop the takeover.
Sudan's top general declared a state of emergency and also dissolved the government. A move that sparked swift local outrage and international condemnation.
*) ASEAN summit gets under way without Myanmar
A summit of Southeast Asian leaders got underway without a Myanmar representative, after its junta leader was excluded for failure to follow a regional peace deal. Neither ASEAN’s chair Brunei, nor the bloc's secretary-general made a mention of the no-show in opening remarks at the virtual meeting. The ASEAN summit on October 15 excluded the junta chief who ousted a civilian government in February this year. *) Joint statement by 10 Western countries avert crisis with Turkey
A diplomatic crisis has been averted after the US and nine other Western countries, including France and Germany, backed down from their joint statement a week ago, demanding the release of a Turkish prisoner.
Turkey’s President Erdogan cautiously welcomed the move when the US Embassy in Ankara said "it maintains compliance with Article 41 of the Vienna Convention.”
Erdogan warned that those who do not respect Turkey’s sensitivities and its independence, cannot live in the country.
*) Over a dozen worshippers shot dead in Nigeria mosque
At least 18 worshippers have been killed by gunmen who attacked a mosque in northern Nigeria during early morning prayers.
The attackers, believed to be ethnic Fulani nomadic herders, were able to escape.
Nigerian police said the attack was linked to a conflict between villagers and Fulani herders.
And finally…
*) Japan's Princess gives up her royal title
Japanese Princess Mako has given up her royal title by marrying her university sweetheart.
The couple wed in a low-key ceremony in Tokyo, following years of controversy over their relationship.
The couple are expected to move to the US in the coming weeks to start their new life.
*) Sudan's military arrests civilian government members
Sudan’s Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok has been placed under house arrest by the military.
According to the information ministry, several members of the civilian government have also been arrested.
The coup attempt comes days after protests in support of civilian rule replacing a council that took over Sudan after the ouster of Omar al Bashir in 2019.
*) Colombia's most-wanted drug trafficker to be extradited to US
After more than a decade on the run, Colombia's most-wanted drug trafficker, Dairo Antonio Usuga, has been caught by authorities.
The deadly drug lord, also known as "Otoniel", evaded capture by bribing officials and making allies on competing sides.
While Otoniel's capture is a win for the world's top cocaine exporting country, the kingpin's absence may fuel more violence through power plays.
*) Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe's husband goes on a hunger strike
The husband of detained British-Iranian aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has gone on a hunger strike to demand her release.
Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been held in Iran since 2016 on spying charges. She recently lost an appeal to her sentence and faces a return to prison.
British authorities say they are "doing all they can" to help Nazanin get home. Richard Ratcliffe claims his wife has been imprisoned as leverage for the 550 million dollar debt the UK owes Iran.
*) Children are going to die' in Afghanistan, UN agency warns
Millions of Afghans, including children, risk death by starvation unless urgent action is taken.
World Food Programme's Executive Director David Beasley says 22.8 million Afghans face acute food insecurity and "marching to starvation" compared to 14 million just two months ago.
Beasley called for Afghanistan’s oversea's assets, frozen after the Taliban takeover in August, to be freed for humanitarian efforts.
And finally…
*) Vigil for cinematographer accidentally killed on set
A vigil has been held for the late cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, who was accidentally shot dead on a film set of "Rust'' last week.
US actor Alec Baldwin shot and killed Hutchins with a prop gun which he was told was not loaded. The prop gun also wounded the film’s director Joel Souza.
An investigation is ongoing and no charges have been filed.
*) Pakistan to keep the border open with Afghanistan to support bilateral trade
Pakistan will keep its border with Afghanistan open for longer hours to support bilateral trade and the new Taliban-led administration. The country's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi made the announcement after his visit to Kabul where he met several Taliban leaders. Qureshi said Pakistan will provide humanitarian aid worth at least $280 million to Afghanistan.
*) Russia reports record 1,064 Covid-19 deaths in the past 24 hours.
President Vladimir Putin this week approved a nationwide workplace shutdown in the first week of November, and the capital Moscow will reimpose a partial lockdown from October.
*) Turkey could expel 10 Western envoys over remarks on Osman Kavala case
Ankara is likely to expel ambassadors from the United States, Germany and eight other Western countries. This group of ambassadors recently made a joint statement and called for the release of jailed Turkish businessman Osman Kavala, which did not go down well with Ankara. The 10 envoys were summoned to the Turkish Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.
*) Late monsoon floods kill more than 150 in India and Nepal
More than 180 people have died in flooding across India and Nepal as heavy late monsoon rains triggered flash floods, destroyed crops and infrastructure and left thousands stranded. The north Indian state of Uttarakhand has been especially badly hit, with 88 confirmed deaths, officials say, while at least 99 have died in neighbouring Nepal. Police in Nepal said rescuers were looking for at least 40 people who have been reported as missing, sparking fears that the death toll could rise.
*) US Households Trump ally Bannon in contempt, seeks prosecution
US lawmakers have voted 229 to 202 to hold ex-president Donald Trump ally Steve Bannon in criminal contempt of Congress.
Bannon is accused of refusing to cooperate with a probe into the deadly January 6 attack on the US Capitol.
The House referral will now move to the Justice Department, which will consider an investigation and charges.
*) Actor Alec Baldwin fires prop gun killing woman on film set
Actor Alec Baldwin has fired a prop gun on a movie set in New Mexico, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza. The incident occurred on the set of the independent feature film "Rust'', the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office said in a statement. An investigation is ongoing and no charges have been filed yet.
*) Drone attack targets US military base in Syria
A drone attack has targeted a US military base near Syria's border with Iraq, US officials and a war monitor said.
A US official confirmed the attack on Al Tanf military base in Syria's southwestern Rif Dimashq governorate where US forces are deployed.
There were no casualties among American forces, the official told Anadolu Agency.
*) Russia, China, Iran agree to work with Taliban for 'regional stability'
Russia and Central Asia power brokers have agreed to work with the Taliban to promote security in the region.
They called on Afghanistan's new leaders to implement "moderate" policies and Moscow said official recognition would only come when the Taliban meets expectations on human rights and inclusive governance.
Russia hosted the Taliban for talks in Moscow, seeking to assert its influence in the region and push for action against Daesh fighters in Afghanistan.
*) Turkey signs energy, defence deals with Nigeria
Turkey and Nigeria have signed multiple bilateral agreements, extending from energy to defence.
Nigeria's President Buhari and Turkey's President Erdogan announced the signing of seven deals after a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in the capital Abuja.
The two sides signed agreements on defence, energy, mining and hydrocarbon as well as youth and foreign affairs cooperation.
*) Ethiopia govt claims strikes hit 'weapons site' in Tigray region
At least 9 people have been badly wounded in air strikes that hit Ethiopia's Tigray region.
Ethiopia's government said it targeted facilities to make and repair weapons, which a spokesman for the rival Tigray forces denied.
Ethiopian authorities said air force jets conducted air strikes on a Tigray rebel military training centre 80 kilometres outside Tigrayan capital Mekele.
And finally…
*) Trump to launch new social media network 'TRUTH Social'
Former US president Donald Trump has announced plans to launch his own social network platform called "TRUTH Social".
The platform is expected to beta launch for "invited guests" next month.
The platform will be owned by Trump Media & Technology Group, which also intends to launch a video-on-demand service that will feature "non-woke" entertainment programming.
*) Brazil's president accused of homicide in Covid response probe
The senator leading a probe into Brazil's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic has recommended that President Jair Bolsonaro be charged with homicide over government errors that led to the deaths of thousands.
Bolsonaro has dismissed the probe as politically motivated.
The document accuses Bolsonaro of turning down early offers to purchase vaccines, delaying Brazil's inoculation drive and costing an estimated 95,000 lives.
*) US says Taliban won't get access to Afghan central bank reserves
The Taliban will not be allowed to access Afghanistan's central bank reserves, which are largely held in the US.
US Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo told Senate it was "essential to maintain sanctions against the Taliban" but at the same time find ways for humanitarian assistance to get to the Afghan people.
The Taliban has called for the US to allow access to more than $9 billion of Afghan central bank reserves as the government struggles to contain a deepening economic crisis.
*) At least 46 dead after heavy rains, landslides in northern India
At least 46 people have died and several are missing after floods triggered by heavy rains hit northern India.
Uttarakhand state has seen incessant rains for the past three days, flooding roads, destroying bridges and causing landslides.
India's Met Department says rains are likely to recede in Uttarakhand on Wednesday but warns of heavy downpours in the northeast and south.
*) Turkey criticises EU report on its membership process
Turkey has criticised a European Commission report on Ankara's EU membership process, saying it once again reflects double standards towards the country.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry said the report overlooked the EU's responsibilities towards Turkey at a time when Ankara has revived high-level dialogue with the bloc.
Turkey also rejected the inclusion of "inconsistent and biased" Greek and Greek Cypriot arguments in the report.
The EU report said Ankara's bid to join the bloc had "come to a standstill".
And finally…
*) Facebook plans to change its name
Social media giant Facebook Inc is planning to rebrand the company with a new name that focuses on the metaverse.
The name change will be announced next week, The Verge reported, citing a source with direct knowledge of the matter.
Facebook did not immediately respond to the report.
🇺🇸 Trial for Ahmaud Arbery's murder case set to begin in the US
🇮🇳 Flash floods in southern India kill at least 25 people
🇹🇷 Turkey's president begins his four-day tour of three African countries
🕋 Muslim worshippers are back to shoulder-to-shoulder prayers in Mecca
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com
*) Deadly clashes erupt during Lebanon protest
Gunfire has killed at least six people and wounded 30 at a Beirut rally organised by Shia Hezbollah and Amal movements.
That’s according to Lebanon's interior minister who said the "exchange started with sniper fire, with the first casualty shot to the head".
Demonstrators were calling for the removal of a popular judge, who's leading the investigation into last year's port explosion that killed more than 200 people.
*) Turkey reiterates importance of inclusive government in Afghanistan
Turkey has reiterated the importance of government inclusiveness for Afghanistan's unity, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said.
This comes following a meeting in Ankara with a high-level delegation from Afghanistan's acting Taliban government.
Ankara encouraged other countries to engage with the Taliban who ousted Afghanistan's government in August, saying "engaging was not the same as recognising".
*) WHO: Only one in 7 Covid-19 cases in Africa being detected
Only one in seven Covid-19 infections in Africa are detected, meaning an estimated 59 million people may be infected in the continent, the World Health Organization says.
“With limited testing, we’re still flying blind in far too many communities in Africa,” said Matshidiso Moeti, regional director for the WHO.
The UN plans to increase rapid diagnostic testing in eight African countries with the goal of testing 7 million people in the next year.
*) At least 46 people killed in Taiwan building fire
At least 46 people were killed and dozens more injured in a massive fire in a 13-storey building in southern Taiwan.
Officials say the "extremely fierce" blaze was hard to control and destroyed several floors.
An investigation is under way and officials set up an independent commission to investigate the conditions at the run-down building which was home to many poor, older and disabled people.
And finally…
*) Adele makes music comeback with new single
British vocal powerhouse Adele made her highly-anticipated music comeback, releasing her first new record since her 2015 Grammy award-winning album "25".
The 33-year-old, known for her ballads about break-ups and regrets, teased new single "Easy On Me" last week with a short video clip.
The song is the first to be released from her upcoming fourth album "30", out in November.
*) Israel and UAE ministers meet in US
We begin in the US where Secretary of State Antony Blinken held three-way talks with his Israeli and the United Arab Emirates counterparts.
The trio discussed the progress made since the signing of last year's Abraham Accords and relations with Iran.
Blinken says Iran's responses to US willingness to return to nuclear talks have not been “encouraging” despite "time running short" for Tehran.
*) Turkish intelligence thwarts attempt to abduct Iranian soldier
Turkey's National Intelligence Organization and police have busted an Iranian espionage network in eastern Turkey.
An Iranian and a Turk were detained on charges of spying and are accused of plotting to kidnap and forcibly repatriate a former Iranian military official.
The eight-member network that included two Iranian agents were caught in a joint operation on September 24, security sources said.
*) Five killed in Norway bow-and-arrow attack
In Norway, at least five people were killed in a bow-and-arrow attack in the town of Kongsberg.
The Kongsberg police chief said there was "a confrontation" between officers and the assailant, a 37-year-old Danish suspect, but he did not elaborate.
The motive for the attack is not yet known but police say they haven't ruled out terrorism.
*) Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel begin hunger strike
At least 250 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel have begun a hunger strike to protest their relocation to isolation, officials said.
The hunger strike, led by the Islamic Jihad group, comes amid heightened tensions in Israeli detention facilities following the escape of six prisoners from a high-security prison.
All six were recaptured within a couple of weeks, but the escape embarrassed Israeli authorities and was hailed as a stroke of defiance by Palestinians.
And finally…
*) Star Trek's Shatner becomes world's oldest space traveler
Beam me up Bezos! 90-year-old actor William Shatner has officially become the oldest person ever to fly to space on a rocket.
The launch took place in Texas aboard Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos' 'Blue Origin' ship and saw Shatner and three others cross briefly over the official boundary of space.
"It was unbelievable," said Shatner, known to Star Trek fans as the daring Captain James Tiberius Kirk, a role he first played more than half a century ago.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, October 8th.
*) Taliban warn against isolating Afghanistan
The Taliban has warned against isolating Afghanistan, saying that similar policies failed in the past and “no one” wants that to repeat.
The Taliban’s UN nominee said the group is ready to engage with the international community and resolve issues through talks.
The UN has warned of a looming “humanitarian catastrophe” as the country requires urgent funding to meet basic needs after the Taliban takeover.
*) Greece ratifies controversial defence deal with France
Greek lawmakers have ratified a defence deal with France that includes a "mutual assistance clause" in case of an armed attack against either.
The five-year agreement was announced in Paris last week by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The pact seems to overlook the idea of collective defence which is a principal tenet of NATO, of which both Greece and France are members.
*) US official says special forces quietly training Taiwanese troops
US special operations forces have been quietly training Taiwanese troops for months, risking the ire of China.
A contingent of around 20 special operations and conventional forces has been conducting training for less than a year, a Pentagon official, who declined to be identified, said.
The official largely confirmed a Wall Street Journal report which said the training has been going on for at least a year, amid China's rising verbal threats against the US ally.
*) Israel judge's approval of 'quiet' Jewish prayer at Al Aqsa stirs outrage
An Israeli judge's conclusion this week that "quiet" Jewish prayer should be allowed at Jerusalem's Al Aqsa mosque compound has stirred outrage.
The Waqf Islamic Affairs Council called the ruling by Jerusalem Magistrates' Court judge Bilhha Yahalom an illegitimate "provocation”.
Even Israeli police have appealed the decision, which came in response to a petition by rabbi Aryeh Lippo, who last month was slapped with a two-week ban from the plaza after praying there.
And finally…
*) Tanzanian-born novelist Gurnah wins Nobel Literature Prize
Tanzanian-born novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah has won the Nobel Literature Prize for his portrayal of the effects of colonialism and the trauma of the refugee experience.
Gurnah, who grew up on the island of Zanzibar but arrived in England as a refugee in the 1960s to escape the revolution, is the fifth African to win the coveted prize.
"I am absolutely overwhelmed and proud. It was completely unexpected," Gurnah said.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, October 7th:
*) UN warns that Afghanistan's economy is on the verge of collapse
Afghanistan’s health system is failing and the economy is on the brink of collapse, the country’s director for the World Food Progamme has warned.
Mary-Ellen McGroarty said donor pledges and commitments “must urgently be turned into reality” before it is too late.
Nearly half the population, more than 18 million people, require aid assistance to survive, while conflict and insecurity have displaced more than 3.5 million, with nearly 700,000 uprooted this year alone, UN figures say.
In mid-August, the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in parallel with a US troop withdrawal from the country.
*) Earthquake in southern Pakistan kills more than a dozen people
A magnitude 5.7 quake strikes Pakistan’s southern Balochistan province, killing at least 20 people and wounding 200 others, officials say, warning death toll could rise.
The worst-affected area has been the remote mountainous city of Harnai, where a lack of paved roads and electricity has hampered the rescue effort.
Pakistan straddles the boundary where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, making the country susceptible to earthquakes.
*) Probe finds refugees face illegal pushback at Greece, Croatia borders
Migrants and refugees are suffering sometimes violent illegal pushback carried out by special police units at the EU's borders, especially Greece and Croatia, says Germany's Der Spiegel.
Videos of 11 pushbacks described by Der Spiegel allegedly show men beating refugees before bringing them back across the border into Bosnia-Herzegovina.
"Asylum-seekers' testimony is piling up in Greece, Romania, and Croatia, gathered by aid groups, lawyers, and journalists," the paper added.
*) Armed bandits kill more than a dozen in northwest Nigeria
Armed men have killed at least 18 people and set ablaze cars and shops in Nigeria's Zamfara state, two residents have said.
The attack comes as the government imposed a telecoms blackout as part of a security operation against groups of kidnappers.
Northwest Nigeria has been engulfed in crisis since late 2020 when groups of armed men began a spate of mass abductions from schools and other violent attacks on villages.
And finally…
*) Daniel Craig gets Hollywood Walk of Fame star next to former James Bond Roger Moore
Daniel Craig finally has got a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame, days before his last movie as James Bond opens in the United States.
The actor's pink and terrazzo star has been placed next to that of the late Roger Moore, who played Bond in seven movies from 1973 to 1985.
"It's an absolute honour to be walked all over in Hollywood," said Craig.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, October 6th:
*) British PM's envoy meets Taliban in Afghanistan
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's special envoy met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan to discuss the humanitarian crisis and battling terrorism.
Simon Gass, Johnson's high representative for Afghanistan, met Taliban leaders including Amir Khan Muttaqi and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Foreign Office said.
The Taliban have been courting foreign powers to help restart cash flows to the country, where civil servants and healthcare workers have not been paid for months.
*) 330,000 children victims of church sex abuse in France
Victims of abuse within France’s Catholic Church welcomed a historic turning point after a new report estimated that 330,000 children were sexually abused over the past 70 years.
The figure includes abuses committed by some 3,000 priests and an unknown number of other people involved in the church according to the report.
The study’s authors estimate 80 percent of the church’s victims were boys, while the broader study of sexual abuse found that 75 percent of the overall victims were girls.
*) Whistleblower urges regulation to tackle Facebook 'crisis'
A Facebook whistleblower told US lawmakers that the social media giant fuels division, harms children and urgently needs to be regulated. Frances Haugen, testifying to the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, accused the company of failing to make changes to Instagram after internal research showed apparent harm to some teens.
Haugen’s accusations were buttressed by tens of thousands of pages of internal research documents she secretly copied before leaving her job.
*) Third tanker carrying Iranian fuel to Lebanon reaches Syria
A third tanker carrying Iranian fuel for distribution in Lebanon has reached the Syrian port city of Baniyas, TankerTrackers.com reported on Twitter.
The Iran-aligned Hezbollah movement says the imports should ease a crippling energy crisis in Lebanon.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said last month the Iranian fuel shipments constitute a breach of Lebanon's sovereignty.
And finally…
*) Ancient Indonesian woman reshapes views on spread of early humans
Genetic traces in the body of a young woman who died 7,000 years ago indicate that mixing between early humans in Indonesia and those from faraway Siberia took place much earlier than previously thought.
Theories about early human migration in Asia could be transformed by the research published in the scientific journal Nature in August, after analysis of the DNA of the woman who was given a ritual burial in an Indonesian cave.
Scientists have until recently thought North Asian people such as the Denisovans only arrived in Southeast Asia about 3,500 years ago.
*) US resumes Afghan refugee flights after measles shots
Afghan refugees will soon be arriving again in the US after a massive campaign to vaccinate them against measles.
The measles outbreak, detected in 24 people, caused a three-week pause in evacuations.
Authorities have administered the vaccination to about 49,000 evacuees staying temporarily on American military bases and also others at transit points.
*) French clergy molested '216,000 victims' in 70 years
A report on sex abuse by Roman Catholic clergymen in France is set to say there have been an estimated 216,000 victims since 1950, a survivor who contributed to the dossier has said ahead of its publication.
An independent commission spent more than 2-1/2 years investigating sexual abuse in the Catholic Church in the country over the past seven decades.
In the run-up to the release of its findings, Commission head Jean-Marc Sauve said about 3,000 paedophile priests and clerics abused minors over the period.
*) Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp back online after massive outage
Facebook and its Instagram and WhatsApp services have returned online after a massive and lengthy outage that added to the social network's woes.
Facebook cited faulty configuration changes on its routers as the root cause of the nearly six-hour outage.
Security experts said the disruption could be the result of an internal mistake, though sabotage by an insider would be theoretically possible.
*) 'Pandora Papers' bring renewed calls for tax haven scrutiny
Calls grow for an end to the financial secrecy that has allowed many of the world’s richest and most powerful people to hide their wealth from tax collectors.
The outcry came after a report revealed the way that world leaders, billionaires and others have used shell companies and offshore accounts to keep trillions of dollars out of government treasuries over the past quarter-century.
The investigation, dubbed the Pandora Papers, was published on Sunday and involved 600 journalists from 150 media outlets in 117 countries.
And finally…
*) Global heating kills 14% of world's corals in decade
Global heating and also dynamite fishing and pollution have wiped out 14 percent of the world's coral reefs from 2009 to 2018, according to the largest ever survey of coral health.
The hardest hit were corals in South Asia and the Pacific, around the Arabian Peninsula, and off the coast of Australia, the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network reported.
The value of goods and services from coral reefs is about $2.7 trillion per year, including $36 billion in tourism, the report said.
*) Blast targets memorial service at Kabul mosque
We begin in Afghanistan’s capital Kabul where a fatal attack rocked the city’s second-largest mosque during a funeral. At least five people lost their lives at the Eid Gah Mosque where a memorial service was being held for the mother of a Taliban spokesman. Nobody has claimed responsibility for the attack, but the Taliban government blames Daesh.
*) North and South restore inter-Korea hotline
Seoul’s Unification Ministry said that officials from North and South Korea have exchanged messages over a cross-border communication channel. The hotline was restored on Monday after Pyongyang severed it in early August in protest against Seoul’s joint military drill with the US. Cross-border communication is expected to improve relations between the two rivals, despite the end of conflict in the early 1950’s.
*) ‘Pandora Papers’ expose hidden assets of politicians, govts, celebs
The largest international collaboration of journalists has produced a report called “The Pandora Papers”, based on an immense collection of leaked offshore data. Some of the leaked documents have revealed the secret wealth of politicians and billionaires around the world. Around 35 world leaders are named in the documents, including more than 300 public officials like judges, mayors, and generals in more than 90 countries.
*) Inquiry finds thousands of peadophiles operates in French churhes
A new research by the Catholic church in France has revealed more than 3,000 pedophiles have been operating in French churches since 1950. The commission investigating the scandal is set to officially release its report in the next few days, after taking around two years to finalise. The report attempted to quantify the number of offenders and victims, and also looked into institutional and cultural issues within the church which allowed pedophiles to work in the system. And finally…
*) Banksy’s famous balloon girl piece goes on auction
A version of British graffiti artist Banksy’s famous “Girl and Balloon” artwork by Christie’s, as the highlight of the London auction house’s upcoming sale. The two-part or diptych canvas depicts a small child letting go of a heart-shaped red balloon and was painted by the elusive wall dauber in 2005. It is expected to fetch up to 4.7 million dollars when it goes on sale on October 15.
*) US Democrats block Republican bid to cut benefits for Afghan refugees
The US Senate has narrowly defeated Republican-backed legislation that would have curtailed assistance for thousands of Afghans evacuated last month.
The voting underscores the deep divide over how the country should deal with a flood of Afghans desperate for new homes after the US withdrawal from their homeland.
President Joe Biden’s withdrawal order has ended the longest war in US history which led to Kabul's fall to the Taliban and an outflow of refugees to several countries.
*) Israel's foreign minister opens embassy on landmark visit to Bahrain
Israel's top diplomat Yair Lapid has begun a landmark visit to Bahrain where he opened the Israeli embassy one year after the US-brokered normalisation of ties.
Lapid met with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, in what Israeli media said was the first public meeting of a Gulf monarch with an Israeli official.
The UAE, Bahrain and Morocco became the first Arab states in decades to normalise relations with Israel last year, following negotiations spearheaded by former US president Trump.
*) North Korea fires newly developed anti-aircraft missile in latest test
North Korea says it has successfully fired a new anti-aircraft missile, the latest in a flurry of weapons tests by the nuclear-armed nation.
The new test comes even as Pyongyang pushes to reopen dormant communication channels with South Korea in a small reconciliation step.
Pyongyang is under multiple international sanctions over its weapons programmes, which have made rapid progress under Kim Jong-un.
*) Ethiopia expels seven senior UN staff for 'meddling'
Ethiopia says it would expel seven senior UN officials for what it called "meddling in the internal affairs of the country.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said he was "shocked" by the decision and expressed full confidence in his staff in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia's northernmost Tigray region has been mired in conflict since November, when Abiy sent troops to topple the regional ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front.
And finally…
*) A collection of artwork by Muhammad Ali heads to auction
A rare collection of sketches and paintings by American boxer Muhammad Ali is going up for auction in New York next week.
The 24-piece collection reflects Ali's interest in religion and social justice, but there are also some that picture him in the ring.
The former world heavyweight champion died in 2016 at age 74 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.
*) Republicans attack Biden over Afghan pullout
Republican lawmakers tried to pick apart President Joe Biden's defense of his withdrawal from Afghanistan during a second day of Congressional hearings with Pentagon leaders.
Republicans have accused him of lying about military commanders' recommendations to keep 2,500 troops in the country and playing down warnings of the risks of a Taliban victory.
They said Biden exaggerated America's ability to prevent Afghanistan from again becoming a safe haven for militant groups like al Qaeda.
*) More than 100 dead in Ecuador's latest prison violence
Clashes between rival gangs in an Ecuador prison have killed at least 116 inmates and injured nearly 80 others.
Violence occurred during the night at the Guayaquil prison complex.
Wednesday’s violence was the latest in a series of bloody prison clashes that have claimed the lives of nearly 200 inmates in the country so far this year.
*) Israeli settlers attack Palestinian village, wound toddler
Dozens of Israeli settlers have attacked a Palestinian village in the occupied West Bank, leaving several people wounded, including a Palestinian toddler.
Video of Tuesday's attack released by an Israeli rights group showed several settlers hurling stones at a cluster of homes and vehicles.
Israeli troops stood among the settlers but did not appear to be taking any action to stop them as Israeli police described it as a “friction incident.”
*) N. Korea's Kim condemns US dialogue offer as 'facade'
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has condemned a US offer of dialogue as a "facade" and accused the Biden administration of continuing a hostile policy against his country.
Talks between Pyongyang and Washington have been effectively at a standstill since the collapse of the HA NOY summit between Kim and then-president Donald Trump over sanctions relief.
Under Biden, the US has repeatedly offered to meet North Korean representatives while saying it will pursue denuclearisation.
And finally…
*) Judge suspends Britney Spears' father from conservatorship
Singer Britney Spears has been freed from her father and she could be freed entirely from court control within weeks.
Jamie Spears was suspended with immediate effect and replaced with a temporary conservator "in the best interests" of the singer, said Judge Brenda Penny, calling the present arrangement "untenable."
Spears' father has controlled her life for the past 13 years, under a legal arrangement the 39-year-old US singer has slammed as "abusive."
*) Top generals say they advised keeping troops in Afghanistan
Top US generals have said that they recommended keeping several thousand troops in Afghanistan, contradicting President Joe Biden.
In August, Biden said in an interview with ABC News that no military leader advised him to leave a small troop presence in Afghanistan.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley said the withdrawal was a "strategic defeat" that left the Taliban back in power.
*) North Korea says it test-fired new hypersonic missile
North Korea has successfully tested a new hypersonic gliding missile, the state media reported on Wednesday.
The missile was fired towards the sea off its east coast as Pyongyang called on the US and South Korea to scrap their "double standards" on weapons programmes to restart diplomatic talks.
The KCNA said the development of the weapon system increases North Korea's defence capabilities, describing the hypersonic missile as a "strategic weapon".
*) WHO chief sorry for sex abuse by Ebola workers in DR Congo
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has apologised after a damning report on allegations of rape and sexual abuse by workers sent to fight Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The report centred on accusations against local and international personnel deployed in the country to fight an Ebola outbreak from 2018 to 2020.
Tedros said two senior staff members have already been placed on administrative leave.
*) Kishida to become Japan's next PM after party vote
Former foreign minister Fumio Kishida has won a race to lead Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party.
He defeated popular vaccine chief Taro Kono in an unusually close race to succeed Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.
Suga had decided to step down after just a year in office.
And finally…
*) Royals join cast of new Bond film for glitzy London premiere
Britain's royals joined Daniel Craig, Lea Seydoux and the cast of "No Time to Die" on the red carpet for the new Bond film's world premiere.
The film, the 25th in the long-running series and Craig's last outing as 007, was initially due to be released in April 2020.
But the release of the movie was delayed multiple times due to the coronavirus pandemic.
*) North Korea 'fires suspected ballistic missile' into the sea
North Korea has fired at least one projectile into the Sea of Japan. That's according to officials in South Korea and Tokyo, who suspect the unidentified projectile may have been a ballistic missile.
The launch comes less than two weeks after North Korea tested a new railway-borne missile system. North Korea has defended the move saying no one can deny it the right to self defence and weapons testing.
Pyongyang is also calling on the US to give up what it calls a "hostile policy" towards North Korea. Washington has condemned the test.
*) SPD seeks alliance with Greens, Liberals for three-way coalition
Germany's Social Democratic Party fought hard to win Sunday's elections, but it will be just as tough forging a coalition.
The party's leader, Olaf Scholz, has the best shot of becoming the new chancellor, and he's got big shoes to fill.
Angela Merkel was one of the world's highest-profile political leaders during her 16 years in office. And she'll stay in the top job until a deal is done. The negotiations will be a complicated process.
*) Botched Nigeria air strike kills many fishermen – report
At least 20 fishermen have been killed accidently after Nigeria's military targeted a militant camp in the country's northeast, according to two security sources and locals.
A Nigerian fighter jet early on Sunday bombarded Kwatar Daban Masara in Lake Chad, which straddles Nigeria and neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon, the sources said on Monday.
The area is a bastion for the Daesh-affiliated Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The reports of casualties came less than two weeks after officials said another airstrike on a village killed nine civilians in Nigeria's northeast.
*) Israel 'won't allow' nukes to Iran; Tehran says Israel has hundreds of them
Israel's Prime Minister, Naftali Bennett, has addressed the UN General Assembly Monday, saying Iran has progressed too far in its nuclear program.
Bennett accused Tehran of seeking to dominate the Middle East under a 'nuclear umbrella'.
"Iran-phobia runs rampant at the UN," Iran's UN Ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi posted on Twitter.
Israel "is in no position to discuss our peaceful program when it has hundreds of nuclear warheads," he said, referring to Israel's widely believed status as the Middle East's sole nuclear-armed state.
And finally…
*)Disgraced singer R. Kelly convicted in sex trafficking trial
A federal jury in New York has convicted American R&B artist, R Kelly, of racketeering and sex trafficking.
The charges against him also include sexual exploitation of a child, bribery and kidnapping.
The verdict comes 13 years after Kelly was acquitted of child pornography charges at an Illinois state trial.
The musician will be sentenced on May 4th, and is said to be facing decades behind bars.
*) Social Democrats beat Merkel bloc in German vote
Germany's centre-left Social Democrats have narrowly won the general election, beating Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives.
Election officials said early Monday that a count of all 299 constituencies showed the Social Democrats won 25.9 percent of the vote with the Union bloc carrying 24.1 percent.
The environmentalist Greens came third with 14.8 percent followed by pro-business Free Democrats with 11.5 percent, making both parties potential kingmakers.
*) Israeli troops kill 5 Palestinians in occupied West Bank raids
Israeli troops conducted a series of raids in the occupied West Bank, killing five Palestinians.
The night raids were carried out in five different regions on Sunday, including the village of Beyt Anan near Ramallah and in towns of Jenin, local media reported.
Israel claimed that the wave of arrests targeted a Hamas cell that Israeli security forces had been following for several days.
*) Taliban asks airlines to resume international flights to Afghanistan
The Taliban in Afghanistan has appealed for international flights to be resumed, promising full cooperation with airlines.
The statement comes as the interim regime continues efforts to gain international acceptance.
The Taliban officials said the suspension has left many Afghans stranded abroad and is also preventing people from travelling.
*) Mass protest as Tunisia political crisis escalates
Hundreds of people took to the streets of Tunisia's capital to protest President Kais Saied's recent decrees bolstering the already near-total power he granted himself two months ago.
This includes the continuing suspension of Parliament’s powers as well as ending lawmakers' immunity from prosecution.
In July, Saied assumed executive authority in a move widely seen as a coup.
And finally…
*) 'Moulin Rouge!' wins big as Tony Awards return to Broadway
Broadway has finally honoured its best and brightest at the Tonys, with jukebox musical "Moulin Rouge!" bagging 10 trophies.
"Moulin Rouge!" won for best musical, best actor and best actor in a featured role, as well as a host of technical honours.
The last Tony Awards ceremony was held in 2019. The virus forced Broadway theatres to abruptly close on March 12, 2020, knocking out all shows.
*) Day 3 of UNGA: Leaders highlight disparity in Covid vaccine availability
The Covid-19 vaccine distribution inequity has come into sharper focus as many leaders of African countries spoke at the UN General Assembly.
South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa urged member states to support a temporary trade waiver to allow more countries to produce Covid-19 vaccines.
Other African leaders said it was "appalling" that while rich countries debate booster shot doses, many poor countries have only been able to vaccine 1 or 2 percent of their populations.
Namibia’s President Hage Geingob called the situation a "vaccine apartheid.”
*) Blinken sees unity on Taliban after meeting with Pakistan, China
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said he believes the world was united on pressing the Taliban after speaking with Pakistan, China and Russia.
Blinken met with his Pakistani counterpart, Shah Mehmood Qureshi Thursday, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
He also held talks with ministers of the four other veto-wielding Security Council members, including China and Russia.
*) Erdogan: US not 'acting honestly' with Turkey, ties at low point
Turkey's President Erdogan says the trajectory of ties with the US do not bode well and that Washington needs to "sort out" issues over Ankara's purchase of S-400 defence systems.
Relations between the two NATO allies struck a low point earlier this year when Washington sanctioned Turkey's defence industry.
According to broadcaster Haberturk, Erdogan said the two countries should work together as friends but he and US President Joe Biden had "not gotten off to a good start".
*) Catalan separatist leader Puigdemont arrested in Italy
Former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont has been arrested in Italy.
Puidgemont was accused of sedition after he helped organise a 2017 independence referendum, which Spanish courts ruled illegal.
He has since been living in self-imposed exile in Belgium, where he holds a seat in the European parliament. But the EU body voted to strip him of his immunity back in March.
*) Emporio Armani celebrates 40 years
Giorgio Armani has celebrated 40 years of his Emporio Armani line with a retrospective show at his Silos museum during Milan Fashion Week.
The preview for next spring and summer featured both menswear and womenswear, opening with denim suits in dark tones for her and in patchwork for him.
The brand also presented a new collection for youthful colourful dressers.
*) Taliban’s new UN envoy urges quick world recognition of Afghan rulers
The Taliban’s newly appointed envoy to the United Nations has urged quick world recognition of Afghanistan’s new rulers.
Earlier, the Taliban wrote to the UN requesting its new UN representative, Suhail Shaheen, be allowed to address the General Assembly currently underway in New York.
Meanwhile, attackers have struck Taliban vehicles in eastern Afghanistan, killing at least two fighters and three civilians in the latest violence since the group's takeover of the country in mid-August.
*) Ukraine president aide targeted in 'assassination attempt'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that an assassination attempt was made against him after his aide's car came under heavy gunfire.
The aide, Serhiy Shefir, survived unscathed but police said his driver had been wounded after more than 10 bullets hit the car near a village, just outside the capital Kiev.
In a recorded message from New York, where Zelenskyy joined the UN Assembly, he called the shooting a show of "weakness."
*) US donating 'historic' extra 500 million Covidvaccines
US President Joe Biden has promised to donate a "historic" extra 500 million vaccines to countries struggling to overcome the pandemic.
The pledge at a Covid-19summit of world leaders, held virtually from the White House, brings the total US commitment of donated vaccines to 1.1 billion — more than the rest of the world combined.
Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration has approved booster shots of Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine for senior citizens and others at high risk from the virus.
*) WHO blames air pollution for 7 million premature deaths a year
The World Health Organisation has strengthened its air quality guidelines, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health.
It said that air pollution causes seven million premature deaths a year, ranking its burden of disease on par with smoking and unhealthy eating.
The WHO's new guidelines recommend air quality levels for six pollutants, including ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
*) Somalia screens first film in three decades
Somalia is due to host its first screening of a movie in three decades under heavy security.
The National Theatre of Somalia's history reflects the tumultuous journey of the conflict-ravaged country, having been targeted by suicide bombers and used as a base by warlords.
The stage was set for the evening screening of two short films by Somali director Ibrahim CM, "Hoos" and "Date from Hell". It had never before screened a Somali film.
*) Joe Biden promises 'relentless diplomacy,' not Cold War
US President Joe Biden in his address to the UN General Assembly has pledged American cooperation through what he called a decisive decade for the planet.
Biden promised to increase climate financing for developing countries.
He also said his administration is moving away from the 'America First' foreign policy, and to an era where military might not be chosen over diplomacy.
*) Erdogan emphasises establishing a fair world order
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in his speech to the UN General Assembly, focused on security issues, the refugee situation and the climate crisis.
Erdogan also spoke about the coronavirus pandemic, saying the response over vaccines for poorer countries was a disgrace.
He suggested a shift in the current international hierarchy would help address many challenges.
*) UN agencies say expulsions may violate international law
The United Nations says the way US authorities have been handling Haitians at the Texas-Mexico border may violate international law, and constitutes forced returns.
Hundreds of Haitians have been deported to Haiti since Sunday, and thousands more have been detained.
They were among around 12,000 asylum-seekers camped out under a bridge that connects the US and Mexico.
There's been bipartisan criticism of the Biden administration, after images on social media showed border guards on horseback using reins as whips.
*) Magnitude 6.0 earthquake strikes Melbourne
A magnitude 6.0 earthquake has struck southeastern Australia.
People ran into the streets of Melbourne, the second largest city, after the tremor shook buildings there.
Video posted to social media shows buildings that were damaged. Melbourne's Seismology Centre says the earthquake lasted about 20 seconds.
And finally...
*) Juventus investigates fans who racially abused AC Milan’s Mike Maignan
AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan blasted those who racially abused him before his team's 1-1 draw with Juventus at the weekend.
Juventus confirmed that they had launched an investigation into the abuse, caught on a video which spread quickly on social media.
It showed an off-camera fan launching a stream of racist insults at the France international while he warmed up ahead of Sunday's match at Allianz Stadium.
*) Trudeau's Liberals win polls
Canada's ruling Liberal Party led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to form the next government, according to state media projections.
Trudeau's Liberals are projected to win most seats but it's still unclear if they will have a majority in parliament.
Polls show the Liberals leading in over 150 electoral districts with only a small fraction of votes counted. The party needs to win 170 seats to hold a majority.
*) President Erdogan vows to increase trade volume with US
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he hopes trade between Turkey and the US will increase five-fold.
It's currently at around 20-billion-dollars a year. Erdogan was speaking on Monday at the 11th Turkey Investment Conference in New York.
Earlier, he met with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the newly-opened Turkevi Center.
*) Biden meets Guterres ahead of his first UN speech as president
President Joe Biden met with the UN chief, ahead of his first speech at the General Assembly.
Biden has emphasised the importance of a strong partnership with the UN, saying no country can solve global problems alone.
And while there's been a lot of focus on the US's chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, Biden is expected to use his speech to try to move onto issues where he has more control.
*) Rwandan court finds 'Hotel Rwanda' hero guilty on terror charges
A Rwandan court has sentenced 'Hotel Rwanda film Hero' to 25 years in prison. Judges found Paul Rusesabagina guilty on terror related charges.
Rusesabagina has been accused of 13 charges, nine of them terrorism-related including funding a rebel group.
Last year, Rusesabagina admitted he had formed an armed group but denied any involvement in its subsequent actions.
And finally...
*) Volcano destroys homes, roads, businesses on Spanish island
At least 100 homes on a Spanish island have been destroyed by lava, flowing from a volcano. The lava is currently on route to the sea.
Authorities say more than 5,000 people have been evacuated from La Palma island so far.
No fatalities have been reported, but there are fears a cloud of toxic gas could form above the region once the lava reaches the sea.
Officials warn the volcano could remain active for the next few days.
*) US says Kabul drone strike killed 10 civilians, including children
A US drone strike in Kabul last month killed as many as 10 civilians, including seven children, the US military has admitted, apologising for what it called a “tragic mistake”.
The Pentagon had said the August 29 strike targeted a Daesh suicide bomber who posed an imminent threat to US-led troops at Kabul airport.
Emal Ahmadi, a survivor whose 10 family members were killed in the strike, has demanded those responsible be punished, saying Washington's apology was not enough.
*) French and UK defence ministers' meeting cancelled amid sub row
France has pulled out from a defence meeting with the UK as the rift deepens over a new security deal between the kingdom, US and Australia.
The two-day talks have been postponed from this week to a later date – that's according to a former British Ambassador.
France is frustrated over Australia signing the so-called Aukus deal with the US and UK, which will get Canberra nuclear-powered submarines.
This resulted in Australia cancelling a major weapons contract with Paris.
*) Early results show Putin party wins majority in the vote
President Vladimir Putin's party is on track to win a strong majority in a three-day parliamentary election, following a harsh crackdown on the opposition.
Most opposition politicians were barred from running as they were linked to jailed Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny.
Allies of Navalny planned to use an app to help voters find candidates to defeat United Russia but the app was removed by Apple and Google on election day.
*) Lebanon’s parliament is to vote on Mikati government
The Lebanese Parliament is voting on the Mikati government and will be discussing its draft programme and plans.
New Prime Minister Najib Mikati's government was formed on September 10th after a year of political deadlock that exacerbated a crippling economic crisis.
Mikati's government is already facing challenges, with Lebanon's Hezbollah unilaterally importing Iranian fuel at risk of international sanctions.
And finally...
*) 'The Crown' wins Emmy for best drama series
The Crown has won the best drama series at the Emmys, while Apple TV+'s “Ted Lasso” took best comedy series honours.
“The Crown” stars Olivia Colman and Josh O'Connor also won top drama acting honours, with Jason Sudeikis, star of “Ted Lasso" a winner on the comedy side.
This year's show was far from last year's Pandemmys that were shot from home, with guests in masks and plenty of hugs and kisses going around – but after presenting vaccine certificates.
*) HRW reports 'war crimes’ attacks on Eritrean refugees in Tigray
Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia's Tigray have suffered abuses ranging from executions to rape in what amount to "clear war crimes", Human Rights Watch says.
The rights watchdog says the Tigrayans distrusted them as they were the same nationality as occupying Eritrean soldiers, who in turn doubted the refugees' loyalty.
HRW said it had received credible reports that Eritrean troops killed 31 people in Hitsats, one of the two camps in Tigray where abuses were documented.
*) Google, Apple remove Navalny app from stores as Russian elections begin
Google and Apple have removed jailed Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny's tactical voting app from their stores, after Russia accused the tech giants of interference.
Russians are voting to elect a new parliament in a three-day vote starting on Friday.
The ruling United Russia party is expected to win despite a rating slump after the biggest crackdown on the Kremlin's critics in years.
Allies of Navalny, President Putin's fiercest opponent, planned to use the app to help voters find and support candidates to deal a blow to United Russia.
*) US defends nuclear sub deal with Australia
The US has defended its decision to share nuclear-powered submarine technology with Australia, rejecting criticism from both China and France.
China claims the new alliance, referred to as Aukus, damages regional stability, and jeopardises efforts to halt nuclear weapon proliferation.
But White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said the agreement is not aimed at China, although the US has mounting concerns about Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
*) Austria hears first lawsuit over virus outbreak in ski resort
The first civil lawsuit begins in a court in Vienna over a notorious outbreak of Covid-19 at the ski resort of Ischgl in March 2020, where thousands of people from 45 countries became infected.
The case is the first of 15 lawsuits filed by plaintiffs from Austria and Germany, accusing authorities of not responding quickly enough to Covid-19 outbreaks in Austrian resorts.
It is being brought on behalf of the family of a 72-year-old who died after contracting the virus in Ischgl.
*) New Van Gogh drawing discovered, set to go on display
A Vincent van Gogh drawing that has been hidden in a private collection for more than a century has gone on display for the first time at an Amsterdam museum.
The work titled "Study for 'Worn Out" depicts an old man sitting in a chair and was sketched by Van Gogh in November 1882 when he was just starting his career.
The owners of the drawing, a Dutch family which bought it in around 1910, asked the Van Gogh museum to authenticate it and experts confirmed that it was indeed a "new work" by Van Gogh.
*) Taliban denies reports of leadership row over make-up of govt
In Afghanistan, there have been reports of a row between Taliban leaders over the make-up of the new government.
Senior Taliban officials have told British media that two rival parties allegedly fought at the presidential palace, but the Taliban has officially denied this.
The group seized control of Afghanistan last month, and their new interim cabinet is made up of senior Taliban figures.
*) US, UK and Australia announce national security initiative
Leaders of the UK, Australia and the US have announced a trilateral security partnership that will allow for greater sharing of defence capabilities.
As part of the landmark security pact - dubbed AUKUS - Washington has agreed to help Australia acquire a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines.
While the leaders made no direct mention of China, the initiative is seen as a strategic move at countering a more assertive Beijing.
US President Joe Biden says AUKUS will strengthen stability in the Indo-Pacific.
*) Turkish, Azerbaijani air forces hold joint military exercise
Turkey and Azerbaijan have held joint military exercises in the Turkish city of Konya, as Ankara says it will continue to support its allies.
Eight combat aircraft, air defence systems and a large number of military personnel took part in the event called 'TURAZ Hawk 2021'.
National defense ministers of both countries have joined the military drill. Turkey supported Azerbaijan in its war with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh last year.
Azerbaijan liberated several cities and villages from the nearly three-decade occupation. The Turkish defense minister has said Turkey will continue to support its allies.
*) Both North and South Korea test-fire ballistic missiles
Tensions continue to escalate in the Korean peninsula as both North and South Korea test-fires ballistic missiles on Wednesday.
The US and the United Nations condemned Pyongyang's missile launch, saying that it threatens regional stability.
North Korean state news agency KCNA said the missiles were testing a new "railway missile system" and flew 800 kilometers before hitting a target at sea.
And finally...
*) Elon Musk's SpaceX venture launches Inspiration4 spaceflight
In a world first, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying only inexperienced civilians has launched into Earth's orbit.
After just over five months of training, the civilians blasted into space aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule.
The four Americans making the historic journey will be in Earth's orbit for three days at an altitude of 575 kilometres, further than any human has travelled since 2009.
*) Afghanistan facing humanitarian crisis month into Taliban rule
It has been a month since the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, seizing the capital Kabul with barely a fight.
Since the Taliban took over, it has announced an all-male interim cabinet and restarted operations at Kabul airport.
But the month has also been marked by a crippling cash crisis, an erosion of women's rights and reports of the Taliban pursuing revenge killings.
The UN has urged the international community to provide a “lifeline” of much-needed aid to Afghans, who also face famine, drought and poverty.
*) North Korea fires 2 ballistic missiles into eastern waters
North Korea has fired two ballistic missiles into waters off its eastern coast just two days after claiming to have tested a new missile.
Japan said the missiles landed outside its economic zone in the waters between Japan and the Korean Peninsula and did not cause damage.
Wednesday's launches came as China’s foreign minister was in Seoul to discuss nuclear negotiations with the North, making Pyongyang's provocation in front of its biggest ally highly unusual.
*) Palestinian prison escapee accuses Israel of torture upon recapture A Palestinian man who was recaptured after his escape from a high-security prison is being tortured by Israeli authorities, a lawyer has said.
Mohammed al Arida has severe wounds, shows signs of sleep deprivation and has not received any treatment, a lawyer affiliated with the Palestinian Prisoner Society said.
The Society will be talking to the four men recaptured after escaping on September 6.
*) Californians vote to keep Democratic governor
California's Democratic governor has defeated a recall aimed at kicking him out of office, spurred by mask mandates and Covid lockdowns.
Had Gavin Newsom lost the confidence vote, he would have most certainly been replaced by a Republican in a deeply Democratic US state.
The California recall, which turned on Newsom’s approach to the pandemic, mirrors America’s deep political and social divide over Covid.
And finally...
*) Pet influencers on the rise in Singapore
You may have seen them for years on your Insta feed, they have more followers than you but you can't help but stop and "aww" over them.
Pet influencers are real and have taken off in Singapore where strict Covid lockdowns further fueled their rise.
Sasha and Piper of the "Lomodoggies" Instagram account are one such influencer pair who earn thousands of dollars by posing with products.
Tapping into the pet influencer boom are their humans and also agencies who say business is thriving, because, who doesn't love a cute cat on their feed?
*)US to assess its ties with Pakistan over Afghanistan's future
The US will be looking at its ties with Pakistan to formulate the role Islamabad can play in Afghanistan's future, State Secretary Antony Blinken has said.
At a Congress hearing on Afghanistan, Blinken said some of Pakistan's interests – such as harbouring Taliban members – conflict with the US even as it cooperated on counterterrorism.
Blinken told lawmakers the Biden administration will be reassessing its relationship with Pakistan.
*) Israeli PM Bennett meets President Sisi in Egypt
Israel's Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi in the resort town of Sharm el Sheikh.
This is the first official trip by an Israeli head of government to Egypt in a decade.
The two discussed bilateral relations and efforts to revive the peace process. Bennett described the meeting as "very good.”
*) Biden visits a burning western US ahead of California election stop
US President Joe Biden is on a two-day visit across three Western states to survey the damage caused by wildfires.
He's calling for protection of the environment and mitigation of the damage caused by natural disasters.
Biden's trip aims to highlight his multitrillion-dollar legislation focused on renewing failing infrastructure, so the US is better able to cope with the changing climate.
*) South Korean antitrust agency fines Google $177M
South Korea's antitrust regulator has fined Alphabet Inc's Google 207 billion won (wahn), or 176.6 million dollars.
The regulator says Google abused its dominant market position to restrict competition in the mobile operating system market.
The Korea Fair Trade Commission investigated Google for allegedly preventing local smartphone makers from customising its Android OS.
The fine is the latest antitrust setback for Google in South Korea.
And finally...
*) Global Witness report says record number of activists killed
A record number of environmental and land rights activists were murdered last year, according to a report by the campaign group Global Witness.
At least 227 activists were killed around the world – the highest number recorded for a second consecutive year. The report called the victims "environmental defenders" killed for protecting natural resources.
Since the Paris Agreement on climate change was signed in 2015, the organisation says on average four activists have been killed each week.
*)Qatari FM meets Taliban leadership
Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani has met Taliban-appointed Afghan Prime Minister, Muhammad Hasan Akhund.
The Qatari delegation also met former president Hamid Karzai, as well as politician Abdullah Abdullah in Kabul.
Al Thani discussed concerted efforts to combat terrorist organizations that threaten Afghanistan's stability.
Qatar has been mediating talks between the Taliban, the US and the now-ousted Afghan government for years.
*) Iran allows IAEA to service nuclear monitoring cameras
Iran says it will allow the International Atomic Energy Agency to conduct nuclear monitoring through cameras.
IAEA's head Rafael Grossi met with officials in Tehran on Sunday.
Grossi says some of the most imminent issues have been addressed, and there's an understanding of cooperation with the new administration.
*) North Korea test-fires long-range cruise missile
North Korea has carried out successful long-range cruise missile tests over the weekend, according to local state media.
The missiles reportedly flew 1,500 kilometres before hitting their targets and falling into the country's waters.
The tests come amid a lengthy standoff between North Korea and the United States over denuclearisation.
The US has reacted to the tests, saying they pose threats to region and beyond.
*) Thousands demand impeachment of President Bolsonaro
Brazilians rallied on Sunday in major cities demanding the impeachment of President Jair Bolsonaro.
He's come under increased pressure in recent months over his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic and the economy.
Protests have intensified ahead of next year's presidential elections, with a recent poll indicating Bolsonaro will likely lose to former president Lula da Silva.
And finally...
*) Spears announces engagement with long-term boyfriend
Britney Spears is getting married to her boyfriend of five years, Sam Asghari.
The engagement comes days after her father Jamie Spears filed to end his control over the pop star's personal and financial life after 13 years.
Spears told a judge in June she wanted to marry Asghari and have a baby with him. Legally, Spears can get married, but her conservatorship must approve it as with other major life decisions.
*)UN: Afghanistan on brink of “universal poverty”
The UN Security Council says the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is getting worse in the country's rural regions.
The body met amid reports of rights abuse in the country since the Taliban took control.
Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai says it will take more than statements to ensure the Taliban respects the rights of women and girls.
*) US marks 20 years since 9/11 attacks
Saturday will mark 20 years since two planes flew into the World Trade Center buildings in New York City, killing nearly 3,000 people.
A third plane crashed into the Pentagon, causing a partial collapse of the building. The 9/11 attacks led to a drastic change in American foreign policy.
The US retaliation included bringing about regime change in Afghanistan and Iraq. But critics say the US approach has increased global instability.
*) US Biden and China's Xi hold first call in seven months
US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping have spoken for the first time in nearly seven months.
Chinese media described the call as “candid” while the White House says the pair spoke about managing competition and avoiding conflict.
Relations between Washington and Beijing have been at their lowest point in decades.
*) Turkey administers more than 100M Covid-19 vaccine doses
The number of Covid-19 vaccine doses administered in Turkey has now passed 100 million.
Turkey started its inoculation programme in January and it has been using the vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and the Chinese company Sinovac.
The health minister says this is a milestone in the country's fight against the virus.
And finally...
*) Raducanu to face Fernandez in all-teen US Open final
British 18-year-old Emma Raducanu has become the first qualifier to ever reach a Grand Slam final by defeating Greek 17th seed Maria Sakkari 6-1, 6-4 at the US Open on Thursday.
Raducanu, ranked 150th, became the youngest Grand Slam finalist since 17-year-old Maria Sharapova won at Wimbledon in 2004.
She advanced to Saturday's US Open final at Arthur Ashe Stadium against 19-year-old Canadian Leylah Fernandez.
*) Morocco’s ruling party suffers crushing defeat in elections
Morocco's ruling Justice and Development Party has suffered great losses in the parliamentary elections, according to preliminary results.
The PJD went from holding 125 seats to 12 in Parliament. The vote has seen the rise of the main liberal and centre-right parties.
The PJD has been in power since 2011 following pro-democracy protests.
*) Taliban forbid protests and, possibly, women sports
The new Taliban government is seeking to end protests in Afghanistan after days of heavy-handed assaults on protesters as well as journalists covering the demonstrations.
The minister has issued an order to end all protests unless demonstrators get prior permission, including approval of slogans and banners.
It’s unlikely the women who have been leading rallies demanding their rights from the hardline rulers will be allowed to protest under the rules.
Women will also be prohibited from playing sports, Australian media quoted the Taliban cultural commission as saying on Wednesday.
*) Afghan national flag carrier to resume international flights next week
Afghanistan's national flag carrier is preparing to resume international flights next week, its new president has said.
Rahmatullah Gulzad praised Qatari and Turkish technical experts for their assistance in getting Kabul airport operational in the shortest possible time.
The teams are still working on Kabul airport, he said, adding they will stay for another month to ensure that it meets international standards.
*) Libyan warlord Haftar hires American lobbyists to woo Biden
Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar has hired veteran American political insiders to lobby on his behalf with the Biden administration and Congress.
Haftar has paid a $40,000 retainer to former special counsel to president Bill Clinton, Lanny Davis and ex-Republican House lawmaker Robert Livingston.
A Foreign Agents Registration Act filing dated September 3 shows Haftar will pay some $960,000 over the course of six months.
And finally...
*) Confederate leader Robert Lee's statue removed in Virginia
The statue of the confederate general Robert E Lee has been taken down in the US state of Virginia.
The pro-slavery leader's monument was removed after a year-long battle. The figure had been towering over Richmond since 1890.
Memorials of confederate leaders had been increasingly targeted in the country's protests against racism.
*) Lafarge accused of paying off Daesh
France's highest court has ruled that cement giant Lafarge must be investigated again for complicity in crimes against humanity.
The company is accused of making payments to Daesh at the height of Syria's civil war, to keep their factories running.
It's facing several indictments, including financing terrorism and endangering life.
*) Taliban announce new government
The Taliban has announced a caretaker government and declared the country an Islamic Emirate.
The cabinet is led by Taliban co-founder Mohammad Hassan Akhund, while the Interior Ministry went to Siraj Haqqani, a man on the FBI's most wanted list.
There's no evidence of any of the inclusiveness pledged by the Taliban after their takeover of the country.
*) Guinea opposition leader hails military coup
Guinea's main opposition leader has welcomed Sunday's ousting of president Alpha Conde by the army.
He says the military made a historic act that completes the fight started by pro-democracy groups.
Meanwhile, the deposed president remains in military detention.
*) Boeing in more trouble over 737 MAX
A US judge has ruled that Boeing's board of directors must face a lawsuit from shareholders over two fatal 737 MAX crashes.
The FAA lifted a flight ban on the 737 MAX in November after a 20-month review.
Boeing was charged by the Justice Department with 737 MAX fraud conspiracy, and agreed to a $2.5 billion settlement to defer prosecution.
And finally...
*) Prisoners in Rome treated with Gelato
Prisoners in Rome were treated to tasty ice-creams during one of Italy's hottest summers on record.
The gelato was courtesy of Pope Francis, who sent 15,000 of the flavorful milky treats.
The pontiff's office also set up medical and bathing facilities for the homeless near the Vatican.
*) US officials look to Qatar for help with Taliban
US Secretaries of State and defence are in Qatar to seek support for the ongoing efforts to evacuate Americans and at-risk allies left behind in Afghanistan.
Antony Blinken and Lloyd Austin have met with Qatar's leaders to discuss a number of issues, including how to enhance security within Afghanistan.
Qatar has become the main mediator between Western countries and the Taliban since the group's takeover.
*) Taliban in full control of Afghanistan
Meanwhile, the Taliban says it has defeated the last pocket of resistance by taking control of Afghanistan's Panjshir Valley.
This means they've taken over the entire country just three weeks after capturing the capital, Kabul.
National Resistance Front leader Ahmad Massoud offered the Taliban a negotiated settlement to end the violence.
*) Israel carries out airstrikes on Gaza
Israel's Defence Force says it carried out several airstrikes in Gaza on Monday night.
Fighter jets hit locations in Khan Yunus.
The Palestinian health authority has not reported any immediate casualties or injuries.
*) UN warns of severe hunger in northern Ethiopia
The UN's World Food Programme is warning of severe hunger in northern Ethiopia.
It says a blockade on aid is bringing millions to the brink of famine.
The UN is unable to get aid into many areas because of checkpoints and the blowing up of crucial access bridges.
And finally...
*) Nasa's rover collects samples from Mars
NASA's Perseverance Rover has successfully completed collecting its first samples from Mars.
The samples are from the Martian Rock, a core from Jezero Crater.
The rocks are the first to be scientifically identified and sent back to earth from another planet.
*) Taliban says it takes Panjshir, last holdout Afghan province
Taliban says it has taken control of Panjshir province north of Kabul, the last holdout of anti-Taliban forces in the country. "With this victory, our country is completely taken out of the quagmire of war," chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid declared in a press conference. But the anti-Taliban force has vowed to carry on fighting, saying its retreat was a battle tactic. The Panjshir Valley is famed for being the site of resistance to Soviet forces in the 1980s and the Taliban in the late 1990s.
*) Shaky calm in Guinea after Conde's apparent ouster
Uneasy calm has returned to the streets of Guinea's capital Conakry, as its citizens await the announcement of a new government after the apparent overthrow of President Alpha Conde by an elite army unit which drew global condemnation. The special forces summoned Conde's ministers and heads of government institutions to a meeting, warning that failure to attend would be considered a "rebellion". The takeover in the West African nation that holds the world's largest bauxite reserves, an ore used to produce aluminium, sent prices of the metal skyrocketing to a 10-year high over fears of further supply disruption in the downstream market. There was no indication of such disruption yet.
*) Ida's death count rises while 600,000 still lack power
Hurricane Ida's death toll continues to rise, with many in the US northeast holding out hope for people missing in the floodwaters. Nearly 600,000 customers in Louisiana still lack power a week after the storm made landfall. Ida slammed into Louisiana on August 29 as a powerful Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 240 kmph.
*) Several Palestinians escape from high-security Israeli jail
Six Palestinian resistance fighters have broken out of a high-security Israeli prison in what Prime Minister Naftali Bennett called a grave incident. Israeli police and the military have started a search after the escape from Gilboa prison in northern Israel. Five of the escapees belong to Islamic Jihad movement and one is a former commander of an armed group affiliated with the mainstream Fatah party. Officials said the escapees appeared to have opened an hole from their cell toilet floor to access passages formed by the prison's construction.
*) 'Shang-Chi' smashes box office records with $71.4M debut
Disney's new "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" has scored an unexpectedly strong $71.4 million opening, industry observer Exhibitor Relations reported. The film enjoys the second biggest opening of this pandemic year, behind Marvel's "Black Widow," which had an $80 million opening.
*) Taliban close to forming new government in Afghanistan
Taliban is expected to announce a new government in Afghanistan. The announcement of a new administration could be made after Friday afternoon prayers, Taliban sources say. It's been almost three weeks since the group took control of the country, and many essential services and government institutions are still not functioning. The country faces an economic crisis as Qatar and Turkey try to restart operations at Kabul airport. *) State of emergency declared in New York and New Jersey
The northeast US has been hit by flash floods and a rising death toll, after record breaking rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Ida.
At least 45 people are now known to have died in the northeastern United States after heavy rain caused by the remnants of the hurricane led to flash flooding.
The storm was the 5th worst in US history and President Joe Biden says the event's ferocity shows the climate crisis has arrived.
*) Japan PM Suga won't seek re-election after year in office
Japanese Prime Minister Yoshide Suga says he will not run for re-election in September, stepping down from leading the ruling LDP. Suga has been in office for a year - taking over from Shinzo Abe, who resigned due to health issues. Suga's support ratings have dropped as the nation struggles with rising Covid-19 infections. National elections are due in Japan in October. *) S.Korea says it is developing more powerful missiles to deter N.Korea
South Korea is reportedly in the final stages of developing a ballistic missile that can carry a warhead of up to 3 tonnes.
This comes as the country unveiled budget proposals aimed at bolstering its defences against North Korea.
The missile would be the latest in a tit-for-tat conventional missile race between the two Koreas that is set to accelerate after Seoul and Washington agreed to scrap all bilateral restrictions on missile development.
And finally...
*) ABBA back after 40 years with new album
And yes here they go again - the return of ABBA - after 40 years of one of the most successful pop groups of all time.
ABBA are finally set to unveil a new 10-song album and a virtual stage show. Abba Voyage will be released in November, before a 'revolutionary' set of concerts where they will be represented by holograms in a show.
The quartet - who split up in 1982 - said they ended up back in the recording studio while working on the stage show.
*) Chaotic US withdrawal likely to 'collapse' Afghanistan's economy
The US credit rating agency Fitch says the economy of Afghanistan is on the edge of collapse two weeks after the Taliban captured Kabul. Afghanistan has about 10 billion dollars in funds but the group is unlikely to get access to them. Thousands in Kabul were queuing outside banks to withdraw cash, which led the Taliban to impose weekly limits on withdrawals. Food prices have gone up by 50 percent while fuel prices increased by 75 percent. *) Syrian regime, Russian forces agree to ceasefire in Daraa
A Russian-brokered ceasefire has come into force in Daraa province in southwestern Syria.
Regime forces have been attempting to retake control of the opposition-held area.
Daraa is part of a de-escalation zone, but armed groups and regime forces are accusing each other of thwarting ceasefire efforts.
*) Kashmiri resistance leader Syed Ali Geelani dies at 92
Kashmiri pro-freedom icon Syed Ali Geelani has been buried in a tightly controlled pre-dawn ceremony.
This comes as Indian authorities imposed a harsh lockdown across the troubled Himalayan region.
The uncompromising campaigner against Indian rule in Kashmir died late on Wednesday at the age of 92 following a long illness.
Geelani, the most outspoken critic of India who spent some 15 years in jail or under house arrest, had wanted to be buried at the Martyrs Cemetery in Srinagar. But Indian authorities rejected that request. *) Afghanistan's first cricket match greenlit since Taliban takeover
The Taliban has approved Afghanistan's first cricket Test since its takeover, raising hopes that international matches will continue as usual under their rule.
During its first stint in power, the Taliban banned most forms of entertainment - including many sports.
The Test match, to be played in Hobart from November 27-December 1, was scheduled for last year but was put off due to the Covid-19 pandemic and international travel restrictions.
And finally...
*) Cristiano scores 111th goal to break FIFA's men record
Cristiano Ronaldo has broken the record for the most goals scored in international men's football.
The 36-year-old scored two late headers against the Republic of Ireland in a world cup qualifying match.
Ronaldo breaks the record formerly held by Ali Daei of Iran, who scored 109 goals. Ronaldo is already the top scorer in club football's top tournament, the Champions League.
) Britain in talks with Taliban over safe passage of remaining nationals ) China's 'national security' data law comes into effect ) Deaths rise as southern US tallies Hurricane Ida damage ) Israel increases besieged Gaza's water quota, fishing zone *) Venice opens film festival with caution
Last US troops depart Afghanistan, ending America’s longest war, and Jon Stewart heads back to TV in September with a deep dive show
*) US military finishes withdrawal from Afghanistan
The US has completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan, ending America’s longest war and leaving behind a socially fractured and economically depressed country that's now under the control of the Taliban.
The withdrawal of American troops closes a chapter in military history likely to be remembered for colossal failures, and unfulfilled promises.
The completion of withdrawal comes as Washington faces criticism after a US drone strike killed ten civilians, including children, in Kabul.
Taliban, which staged a lightning-swift takeover this month, on Tuesday were celebrating the withdrawal of the last US troops with gunfire.
*) Syria regime shelling kills civilian in Daraa after talks collapse
Syrian regime forces have shelled opposition-held parts of a volatile southern city of Daraa, killing at least one person.
The attack on the flashpoint city comes as rebels killed four regime soldiers after Russia-backed talks to end the presence of opposition fighters in the area collapsed.
Daraa became known as the cradle of the uprising against Syria's Bashar al Assad that erupted in 2011.
*) Ida inflicts ‘catastrophic’ destruction on Louisiana
Rescuers comb through the catastrophic damage Hurricane Ida did to Louisiana.
The fierce storm has killed at least two people, stranded others in rising floodwaters and sheared the roofs off homes.
Ida knocked out power for all of New Orleans, with more than a million properties across Louisiana without power.
*) At least six Palestinians injured in live fire near Gaza border
At least six Palestinians have been injured by the Israeli military which used live fire and gas bombs to push protesters away from the Gaza border fence.
Hundreds of Palestinians demonstrated along the border, calling for an end to the 14-year Israeli-led blockade of the small coastal enclave.
Some protesters burned tyres and hurled rocks at Israeli soldiers.
And finally...
*) Jon Stewart returns to TV in September with deep dive show
Six years after he quit "The Daily Show," Jon Stewart is returning to television with a show that takes an in-depth look at current affairs.
Apple says "The Problem With Jon Stewart" will launch on its Apple TV+ streaming platform on September 30.
Stewart passed the mike to Trevor Noah in 2015 and has since made only infrequent public appearances.
Multiple rockets hit near Kabul airport as US and its allies rush evacuations, and Cristiano Ronaldo breaks Man City hearts.
*) Rockets fired at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport
US anti-missile defences have intercepted as many as five rockets fired at Kabul's airport with no casualties reported.
The US is rushing to end its longest war and evacuate remaining citizens and at-risk Afghans before Tuesday's deadline.
The mission became more dangerous after a Daesh-K suicide attack on Thursday killed 170 Afghans and 13 US troops at the airport.
On Sunday, the US said its second drone strike in a week blew up “multiple suicide bombers” from Daesh-K. An Afghan official said three children were killed in the strike.
*) Ida downs New Orleans power on deadly path through Louisiana
Hurricane Ida has knocked out power to all of New Orleans and inundated coastal Louisiana communities on a deadly path through the Gulf Coast.
Forecasters warned of flash floods and life-threatening storm surge as Ida continued its rampage Monday through Louisiana and Mississippi.
Ida has already been blamed for at least one death in Louisiana.
*) Scores killed in Houthi strikes on Yemen base, spokesman says
At least 30 soldiers have been killed and 60 wounded on Sunday in air strikes on a Saudi-led coalition military base in southwest Yemen.
The Houthis carried out several attacks using armed drones and ballistic missiles on al Anad military base, a southern forces spokesperson said.
Saudi Arabia became involved in Yemen's war in 2015 to quash a Houthi uprising. The ensuing conflict caused the world's worst humanitarian crisis.
*) Palestinian president, Israeli defence minister hold rare talks
Israel's defence minister has held talks with the Palestinian president in Ramallah, the first high-level meeting between the two sides in years.
Sunday's meeting between Benny Gantz and Mahmoud Abbas signalled a possible shift after limited communication between the Palestinian Authority and Israeli leaders in recent years.
Gantz's office said he told Abbas that Israel will take new measures to strengthen Palestine’s economy.
A Palestinian official said the leaders discussed possible steps, including demands for a halt in Israeli military operations in the occupied West Bank.
*)City fans disappointed as Ronaldo returns to Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to be back at Manchester United, breaking hearts at Man City after rumours fuelled hopes that the Portuguese star would pick them.
United agreed to a deal with Juventus on Friday to bring Ronaldo back to the club where he spent six seasons, winning eight major trophies plus his first Ballon d'Or.
News of Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford has sent the United support into a frenzy of excitement.
*) US, allies ask people to leave Kabul airport area over Daesh threat
More than 80 people have been killed in the twin explosions outside Kabul airport, officials at Afghanistan's Emergency Hospital have said.
The death toll can rise as many of the wounded were taken to other hospitals in the city.
Over 40 of the victims were Afghan civilians and at least 13 were US troops. Daesh's Khorasan affiliate has claimed responsibility for the attacks.
US-led coalition forces in Kabul are bracing for more such attacks while winding up their evacuation mission.
*) US flag flies at half-mast to honour Kabul attacks victims
The American flag has been lowered at half-mast in the US Capitol to honour the victims of the Kabul airport attacks.
Flags on all state buildings will be flown at half-mast Friday in memory of the service members and civilians killed.
US President Joe Biden vowed to carry on evacuating people fleeing Afghanistan. He also vowed to hunt down those responsible for the attack and make them pay.
*) Turkey's president Kabul blasts highlight Daesh danger
Speaking ahead of a trip to Bosnia, Turkey's President Erdogan has said that Daesh’s attack on Kabul airport shows how dangerous the terror group is in the region and world.
The Kabul airport blasts and Daesh involvement shows how crucial the security of Afghanistan is to the world, Erdogan said at a press conference.
Erdogan said Turkey's priority remains to evacuate our citizens willing to return after Thursday’s bombings killed at least 72 Afghans and 13 US troops.
*) Protests erupt amidst vote on new cabinet
Tensions flared in Lima ahead of Peru’s vote of confidence for the new Cabinet of leftist President Pedro Castillo.
Although confirmed a winner by 44-thousand votes, this week's Congress vote is a huge test for his presidency.
Before the vote, Prime Minister Guido Bellido reinforced the government's plans to lift Peru from the nation's most grave, political, social, environmental and health crises in decades.
- ) Tom Cruise shows off latest daredevil 'Mission: Impossible' stunt
Tom Cruise has presented what he called his most dangerous stunt ever in a clip from his upcoming "Mission: Impossible 7" movie.
Cruise, known for doing his own stunts, takes a motorbike ride down a ramp and off a giant cliff in Norway and lets go in mid-air before his parachute is released.
"Mission: Impossible 7," in which Cruise returns as spy Ethan Hunt, is due for release in May 2022 after a coronavirus-disrupted shoot in Italy, Norway and the UK of more than a year.
US and allies urge people to leave Kabul airport area over imminent Daesh threat, and man who appeared on Nirvana's "Nevermind" cover as a baby sues for “sexual exploitation”
*) US, allies ask people to leave Kabul airport area over Daesh threat
The US, UK and Australia have urged their citizens to stay away from Kabul's international airport, citing a terrorist threat.
Thousands of Afghans and foreigners are hoping to get evacuated before the August 31 deadline.
Despite fresh warnings, thousands of people desperate to flee the Taliban-controlled country have gathered at the gates of Kabul airport.
*) Sydney hospitals erect emergency tents as cases hit record
Australia's daily Covid-19 cases have topped 1,000 for the first time since the global pandemic began.
This comes as two major hospitals in Sydney set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients.
Sydney is struggling to stamp out a surge driven by the fast-spreading Delta variant despite two months under lockdown.
*) Boko Haram attack kills over a dozen soldiers in southern Niger
In Niger, at least 16 soldiers have been killed and nine wounded in an attack by Boko Haram militants.
Officials said hundreds of militants overran a military post in a region bordering Nigeria, where Boko Haram and Daesh are active.
The overnight attack comes only two months after some 6,000 people returned to Baroua having fled violence in 2015.
*) Israel targets protesters along Gaza security fence
At least 20 Palestinians in blockaded Gaza have been wounded after the Israeli army opened fire on them, medical sources and witnesses say.
The Palestinians were protesting near Gaza's border security fence against years of Israel's siege, demanding reconstruction after the 11-day conflict in May.
However, the protests were more muted than a weekend demonstration that left dozens wounded.
And finally ...
- ) Man featured on Nirvana cover as baby sues for 'sexual exploitation'
A man who was featured as a naked infant on the cover of Nirvana's "Nevermind" album is suing the band for sexual exploitation.
Spencer Elden was photographed by his father's friend in 1991 when he was four months old, naked in a pool reaching for a dollar bill on a fish hook.
The lawsuit claimed neither Elden nor his guardians "signed a release authorising the use" of the photograph, which it described as "commercial child pornography".
"Nevermind" featuring songs such as "Smells Like Teen Spirit" went on to sell 30 million copies.
*) Biden sticks to August 31 Afghan withdrawal deadline
President Joe Biden says the US is on pace to complete all its evacuations from Afghanistan by the end of the month.
Biden emphasises that reaching that goal remains dependent on cooperation from the new Taliban rulers.
He says staying in Afghanistan past the deadline would raise the “terror” threat against Americans and allied forces.
*) Algeria breaks off diplomatic ties with neighbouring Morocco
Algeria says it has snapped diplomatic ties with Morocco after accusing its neighbour of spying and supporting a separatist movement, a charge Morocco denies.
Relations between the two nations have deteriorated since last year when the issue of Western Sahara sovereignty flared up after years of comparative quiet.
Morocco regards the disputed territory as its own, while Algeria backs the independence movement there.
*) UN says millions one step away from famine in Yemen
The United Nations has warned that millions of people in Yemen are just a step away from famine.
Around five million in the country are facing imminent starvation and the crisis has been aggravated by Houthi rebels who have blocked the delivery of supplies.
The UN's Martin Griffiths told the Security Council that roughly two-thirds of the country's population relies on humanitarian aid.
*) Four years after mass expulsion from Myanmar, plight of Rohingya continues
It's been four years since Myanmar's military launched a deadly crackdown on the Rohingya minority living in Rakhine state.
Hundreds of thousands of people fled to neighbouring Bangladesh following the brutal campaign of violence.
The UN describes the Rohingya as one of the world's most persecuted minority groups, which has faced decades of discrimination and human rights abuses.
And finally ...
- ) Legendary Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts dies at 80
Charlie Watts, the drummer of the legendary rock'n'roll band the Rolling Stones has died at the age of 80.
Publicist Bernard Doherty said Watts passed away peacefully in a London hospital surrounded by his family.
He joined the Stones early in 1963 and ranked just behind Mick Jagger and Keith Richards as the group's longest lasting and most essential member.
*) NATO diplomat says Kabul evacuation continuing on war footing
Evacuations at Kabul airport are taking place on a "war footing", NATO says as foreign forces try to meet an August 31 deadline to leave Afghanistan.
Taliban officials have been briefed about the evacuation and logistics at the airport, a NATO official said.
The official stated better crowd management was still required even though the situation outside Kabul airport was relatively calmer.
*) Tunisia's president extends suspension of parliament
Tunisia's President Kais Saied has extended the suspension of parliament until further notice, a month after granting himself greater powers in what activists have called a "purge".
Saied also extended the suspension of parliamentary immunity, justifying his intervention as necessary to save Tunisia from collapse.
The Tunisian president has not yet appointed a new prime minister or announced a roadmap demanded by allies and key players.
*) Harris rebukes China in major speech on Indo-Pacific
US Vice President Kamala Harris has accused Beijing of continuing to "coerce" and "intimidate" in the South China Sea during her trip to Singapore.
She also pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo Pacific.
The area has growing importance to the Biden administration, which has made countering China’s influence globally a centrepiece of its foreign policy.
*) California firefighters battle a dozen large wildfires
More than 13,500 firefighters are working to contain a dozen large California wildfires that have forced thousands of people to flee to safety.
After an extensive review of fire damage, Governor Gavin Newsom requested a presidential major disaster declaration for eight counties.
The Caldor Fire, just 9 percent contained, has become the nation's number one priority for firefighting resources.
And finally ...
- ) Tokyo Paralympics to open as Japan battles virus surge
Tokyo's Paralympic Games will open as Japan battles a surge in Covid-19 cases.
The Games will officially be declared open on Tuesday evening by Japan's Emperor Naruhito but virus rules mean most of the stadium will be empty.
As a “sign of solidarity," Afghanistan's flag will be displayed at the opening ceremony even though the country's athletes were not able to get to Tokyo.
*) US evacuates 11,000 out Kabul airport over weekend
US President Joe Biden has once again defended his administration's decision to withdraw troops from Afghanistan.
Washington says it evacuated 11,000 vulnerable people out of Kabul airport this weekend – bringing the total number of US evacuations to 28,000.
Biden said there is a “long way to go” before everyone is evacuated with the US unable to ascertain an accurate headcount of its citizens there.
*) More countries clamping down on Afghan refugees influx
Meanwhile, more and more nations are concerned about an influx of Afghan refugees after the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.
On Sunday, Australia denied visas to 100 contractors guarding their Kabul embassy and Austria said it won't be taking in any more refugees.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said militants may leave Afghanistan by pretending to be refugees and then appear in his country.
Turkey has pressed on the EU to help fleeing Afghans as President Erdogan stressed his country cannot handle additional “migration burden.”
*) Cuba records one of highest Covid rates in western hemisphere
After recording one of the world's lowest Covid-19 rates last year, Cuba now has one of the western hemisphere's highest.
The island nation reported around 12-thousand cases in 2020 – that total has increased by 50 times so far this year.
Hospitals are struggling to respond to the rise in Delta variant cases because of a lack of medical supplies.
*) At least 22 dead in flooding in US state of Tennessee
Devastating floods in the US state of Tennessee have left at least 22 people dead and dozens missing, officials said in what they warned was a preliminary toll.
Tennessee was hit on Saturday by historic storms and flooding, dumping 38 centimetres or more of rain.
Rural roads, state highways and bridges were washed away as power outages affected thousands of people.
And finally ...
- ) Bitcoin jumps above $50,000 for first time since May
Bitcoin broke back above $50,000 on Monday for the first time in three months as investors piled back into the cryptocurrency on bargain-buying.
The unit climbed around two percent to $50,249.15, its highest since mid-May.
This came after it began tumbling on a range of issues including China's crackdown on cryptocurrencies and Elon Musk's concerns on the environmental impact of mining.
*) Over 18,000 people evacuated since Sunday from Kabul airport
More than 18,000 people have been evacuated from Kabul airport since the Taliban took over the Afghan capital, a Nato official said, declining to be identified.
At the airport, military evacuation flights continued but access remained difficult for many, with the US struggling to pick up the pace of American and Afghan evacuations.
On Thursday, Taliban insurgents fired into the air to try to control the crowds gathered at the airport’s blast walls.
*) Brazil's Bolsonaro blocking critics on social media
Human Rights Watch has accused Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro of violating the right to free speech by blocking critics on social media.
The group reported that at least 176 journalists, lawmakers, influencers, ordinary citizens and others deemed critical of the president have had their access to his accounts blocked, mostly on Twitter.
Bolsonaro, who has built his political brand largely around his fiery social media screeds, has around seven million followers on Twitter.
*) Two killed, five injured in Mogadishu suicide bombing
At least two people have been killed and five wounded after a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device inside a cafe in Somalia's capital.
The suicide bomber targeted a tea shop near a crowded junction in northern Mogadishu which was reportedly frequented by members of the Somali security forces as well as civilians.
The Al Qaeda-linked group Al Shabab claimed the attack through their news agency, according to the US monitoring group SITE.
*) Grace weakens to tropical storm after lashing Mexican Caribbean
Hurricane Grace grounded flights and forced tourists to spend the night in shelters on part of Mexico's Caribbean coastline before weakening to a tropical storm.
Grace made landfall before dawn as a Category One hurricane on the Yucatan Peninsula near the town of Tulum, famed for its Mayan temples.
The governor of southeastern Quintana Roo state said hundreds were evacuated and the storm passed the Riviera Maya coastline.
And finally ...
- ) Singapore opens its first ice cream museum
America's Museum of Ice Cream has launched its first international outlet in Singapore, providing some sweet distraction from the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Museum of Ice Cream said it planned to expand to more locations soon, the next opening in Austin, Texas.
Its flagship New York museum is wildly popular with social media influencers and frequently attracts celebrities.
*) Three dead after anti-Taliban protests in Jalalabad
Three people have been killed and more than a dozen injured after Taliban members opened fire during a protest against the group in Jalalabad.
Meanwhile, former president Ashraf Ghani said he hopes to return home, after fleeing to the UAE but Washington said he is "no longer a figure in Afghanistan."
US President Joe Biden said it was impossible to leave Afghanistan without chaos and that some soldiers may stay in Afghanistan past August thirty-first to evacuate Americans.
*) Haiti quake death toll rises to 2,189
The death toll from a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti has risen to 2,189 with 600,000 people in need of immediate humanitarian assistance, local civil protection authorities said.
Flooding and heavy rains over the past days interrupted efforts to search for survivors and help those left homeless or without food and water.
International aid workers said hospitals in the areas worst hit by the quake are mostly incapacitated and that there is a dire need for medical equipment.
*) Turkish President meets with UAE National Security Adviser
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held talks in Ankara with UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
They discussed bilateral and regional developments and UAE investments in Turkey, Turkey’s Communications Directorate said.
Turkey and UAE have been at loggerheads over regional issues, supporting opposite sides in the Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Mediterranean.
*) Greek firefighters battle growing forest blaze near Athens
Greek firefighters battled a wildfire raging through one of the last remaining pine forests near Athens, warning that homes could be at risk.
More than 500 wildfires have broken out in recent weeks across the country, ravaging swathes of forest and forcing the evacuation of thousands of people.
Like other countries across the Mediterranean region including Turkey and Tunisia, Greece has seen some of its highest temperatures in decades this summer.
And finally ...
- ) Rights groups urge Apple to scrap plans to inspect iMessages
More than 90 policy and rights groups around the world are urging Apple to abandon plans to inspect iMessages.
The tech company says it intends to scan children’s messages for nudity and the phones of adults for images of child sex abuse with its upcoming iOS 15 update.
Signatories are concerned that the capabilities will be used to censor protected speech and threaten privacy and security.
*) Taliban allowing 'safe passage' from Kabul in US airlift
The White House said the Taliban had promised that civilians could travel safely to the Kabul airport as the US military stepped up its airlift for Americans and Afghans.
A White House official said some 3,200 people have been evacuated by the US military so far.
Washington wants to complete the exodus before its August 31 withdrawal deadline.
*) Tropical storm halts Haiti quake recovery efforts
Haitian officials raised the death toll from a deadly weekend earthquake to 1,941 and the number of injured to 9,900.
Tropical Storm Grace has forced a temporary halt to rescue efforts, lashing the country with 38 centimeters of rain.
Officials said the magnitude 7.2 earthquake destroyed more than 7,000 homes and damaged nearly 5,000, leaving about 30,000 families homeless.
*) Iran ups uranium enrichment to 60
Iran has established a process to accelerate production of highly enriched uranium.
International Atomic Energy Agency director Rafael Grossi informed IAEA member states that Tehran was boosting capacity to enrich uranium up to 60 percent at its Natanz enrichment plant.
The move takes Iran closer to the 90 percent purity level needed for use in a nuclear weapon.
*) Investigators say Bolivia security forces committed 'massacres'
An independent group has accused Bolivia's security forces of carrying out "massacres" during social unrest around the disputed 2019 elections.
Clashes between rival supporters and opponents killed at least 37 people after Evo Morales won an unconstitutional fourth term as president in an election.
The report by the Interdisciplinary Group of Independent Experts also highlights political polarisation surrounding Morales’ changing of the constitution and racism against his Indigenous followers.
And finally ...
- ) Nuclear scientists hail US fusion breakthrough
Nuclear scientists using lasers have generated a huge amount of energy from fusion, possibly offering hope for the development of a new clean energy source.
Nuclear fusion is considered by some scientists to be a potential energy of the future because it produces little waste and no greenhouse gases.
It differs from fission, a technique currently used in nuclear power plants, where the bonds of heavy atomic nuclei are broken to release energy.
*) Biden defends US pullout from Afghanistan
President Joe Biden has deflected blame for the Taliban's stunning military takeover after the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.
He said US troops could not defend a nation whose leaders "gave up and fled," as did President Ashraf Ghani.
Kabul airport saw scenes of heartbreak on Monday as thousands of Afghans tried to flee Taliban rule, with at least seven people dying in the chaos.
*) UN chief urges world to open doors to Afghan refugees
The UN has asked the international community to let Afghan refugees in and not deport those who are taking the risk to get away from the country.
It is expected that in the coming months a wave of refugees will move towards Europe and the US.
Some countries are now calling for allowing in refugees but France has expressed concerns, vowing to work on preventing an influx of irregular Afghan immigrants to the EU.
*) Haiti quake revives anger over aid response in past disasters
Saturday's earthquake has revived anger in Haiti over international aid response to a devastating quake that hit the country 11 years ago.
Haitians took to social media to urge donors to send money directly to local charities, criticising what they saw as misuse of funds after the 2010 quake and a major hurricane in 2016.
Saturday's quake in the poorest country in the Americas killed at least 1,419 people and injured thousands more.
*) Zambia's new president vows 'better democracy’ after landslide win
Zambian president-elect Hakainde Hichilema has slammed the country's outgoing "brutal regime" while promising a "better democracy" in his debut address to the nation.
He pledged to foster rule of law and respect for human rights, liberties and freedoms.
Hichilema won more than 2.8 million votes against incumbent Edgar Lungu's 1.8 million in Thursday's election.
And finally ...
- ) Japan's Kaji, the "godfather of Sudoku," dies at 69
Maki Kaji, a puzzle enthusiast and publisher who was known as the "Godfather of Sudoku" has died at 69.
The cause of death was bile duct cancer.
Sudoku became popular outside Japan around two decades ago after overseas newspapers began printing it.
A world championship has been held annually since 2006.
*) Taliban in control of Afghanistan
The Taliban has taken over Afghanistan's capital Kabul and now controls almost all of the country after President Ashraf Ghani conceded the group had won the 20-year war.
The astonishingly quick collapse of the government, with the Taliban taking over the presidential palace on Sunday night, triggered fear and panic in the capital.
Thousands of civilians desperate to flee the country flooded Kabul airport, where at least five people were reported killed in gunfire amid the chaos.
*) Powerful earthquake kills over 1,200 people in Haiti
The death toll in Haiti from a 7.2-magnitude earthquake has climbed past twelve hundred, as crews desperately dig through collapsed buildings for survivors.
Neighbouring countries sent rescue teams, food, and medicine to Haiti where hospitals are overwhelmed by quake victims.
Officials said some 13,600 buildings were destroyed and over 13,700 damaged, trapping hundreds of people under rubble and leaving more than 5,700 injured.
*) Japan calls for massive evacuation amid heavy rains
Now to Japan, where almost two million people have been urged to evacuate their homes after torrential rain triggered floods across the country.
At least three people are presumed dead as heavy rains continue to flood streets and residences in the southern part of Japan.
Southwestern Japan has been swamped with rain since last week and the weather agency says the downpour is likely to continue in the coming days.
*) Zambia opposition leader wins presidential election
Business tycoon and opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema is the winner of the hotly contested presidential election in Zambia.
Official results showed Hichilema captured a landslide of more than 2.8 million votes against around 1.8 million for President Edgar Lungu.
Lungu, who has been in office for six years, tried to retain his mandate despite growing resentment about rising living costs and a crackdown on dissent.
And finally ...
*) ‘Suicidal reproducer’ mammal survives Australia fire
A rare, shrew-like Australian marsupial, whose males die en masse from stress after a ‘frenetic’ mating season, has survived devastating wildfires that scorched their habitat.
That’s according to scientists who feared for the future of a key population of silver-headed marsupials that were only formally identified eight years ago.
The animal lives a precarious life, dying before age one from the effects of an intense two-week mating season. Females rarely survive a third breeding season.
*) Taliban captures more key cities
Taliban militants are taking over major provincial capitals in Afghanistan at lightning pace.
By Friday morning, the insurgents were in control of 12 of Afghanistan's 34 provincial capitals, which it captured in a week.
US intelligence reports say capital Kabul will fall within 90 days and that a Taliban takeover of the entire country is all but certain.
*) Dangerous heatwave to hit Europe
Spain and Portugal are now bracing for a dangerous heatwave, after Italy reported Europe's highest temperatures.
Authorities warn temperatures could pass 44 degrees Celsius in some areas.
The North Africa-born heatwave has already caused deadly wildfires in Southern Europe, Greece, Turkey and Algeria.
*) Dixie Fire wreaks havoc in California
The Dixie Fire in California is quickly becoming one of the most destructive in the state's history.
Since mid-July, Dixie has destroyed around 1,000 buildings, and burned over 160,000 hectares.
Over 6,000 firefighters are battling the blaze and have successfully managed to contain 30 percent.
Meteorologists predict the wildfires will continue to burn into the winter season.
*) More soldiers deployed to enforce curbs in Sydney
More soldiers will begin patrolling the streets in Australia's Sydney from next week to help ensure compliance of lockdown rules.
More than 500 soldiers are already helping Sydney police enforce curbs at hotels and airports.
New South Wales state reported 390 new locally acquired cases of Delta variant, most in Sydney, which has been under lockdown for nearly seven-weeks.
And finally ...
*) Britney Spears gets control of her estate
Britney Spears' father has agreed to step down as conservator of her $60 million estate.
The 39-year-old pop star has been seeking to remove her father's control over her affairs.
A judge had deemed Spears unfit to care for herself, after her public mental breakdown in 2008.
*) Taliban deny targeting civilians
Taliban militant group denies it targeted and killed civilians during its offensive against Afghan troops.
The statement comes as the insurgents make rapid advances, and are now in control of 10 of the country's 34 provincial capitals.
The UN is warning of a humanitarian crisis, as tens of thousands flee their homes from conflict.
*) Dixie Fire rages across California
The largest wildfire in California's history has been raging across the US state for 27 days.
The Dixie Fire has already destroyed hundreds of residential and commercial structures.
Authorities say only 27 percent of the blaze is contained, with more than 5,000 firefighters working to extinguish it.
*) Protests against controversial media bill in Poland
Polish lawmakers in the lower house of parliament voted in favour of a highly controversial media ownership bill.
The legislation, which is expected to be defeated in the senate, means the country's largest remaining independent TV stations could lose their licenses.
Several protests were held against the vote, saying it's an attempt to silence critical broadcasters.
*) US moves a step closer to extraditing Assange
The US has won the right to challenge psychiatric evidence in the extradition case of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange.
Dozens of Assange supporters rallied outside the High Court in London.
The psychiatrist failed to add into evidence that Assange had fathered two children during the seven years he was holed up inside the Ecuadorian Embassy.
And finally ...
*) Chelsea beat Villareal in UEFA Super Cup
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa made two crucial saves in a penalty shootout to emerge the hero in his team's victory over Villareal in the UEFA Super Cup.
Extra time ended 1-1 at Belfast's Windsor Park before the match moved to a deciding penalty shootout, which Chelsea won 6-5.
Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel made the masterstroke tactical change by bringing Kepa on for the shootout, and adding yet another trophy to the Blues' collection.
*) Scores killed by wildfires in Algeria
At least 42 people have been killed by wildfires in Algeria.
The government has paid tribute to 25 soldiers who died after saving scores of people.
There have been blazes in at least 19 different locations across the country since Monday.
*) Biden: Afghan troops need to fight for their nation
US President Joe Biden says his country is committed to fully withdrawing from Afghanistan, and Afghan troops need to fight for their nation.
Biden's statement comes as Taliban militants seized a seventh provincial capital within a week.
A senior EU official told the media that the insurgents now control 65% of the country.
*) Lithuania to build anti-migrant fence on border
Lithuania's parliament voted in favour of building a metal fence on a border it shares with Belarus to stop non-EU migrants from entering.
The country says more than 4,000 migrants have entered illegally from Belarus this year.
Lithuania says the migrants fly into Belarus and are then allowed to cross the border into Lithuania illegally. Belarus denies being involved.
*) NY Governor Cuomo resigns
New York's Governor Andrew Cuomo has resigned over a series of sexual harassment allegations.
His deputy, Kathy Hochul will take over, to become the first woman to lead the state in its 233-year history.
Cuomo says his resignation will take effect in 14 days.
And finally ...
*) Covid pushes Emmy Awards outdoors
This year's Emmy Awards will be held outdoors on the Event Deck at LA LIVE, because of a surge in Delta cases.
Only a limited number of guests will be allowed to the ceremony, and will have to provide proof of vaccination.
The event will take place on September 19 with Cedric the Entertainer as host.
*) Taliban continues with offensive despite calls for peace
Taliban militants are escalating a nationwide offensive in Afghanistan after rejecting international calls for a ceasefire.
The insurgents have already seized six provincial capitals since Friday.
Civilian casualties are rising with the UN saying dozens of children have been killed in the last 72 hours.
*) Bombshell climate report says humanity has failed the Earth
A major UN report on climate change has set off warning bells that humans are changing the climate in unprecedented ways, and some of the damage is irreversible.
The report by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change says heatwaves, torrential rains and droughts will happen more frequently.
The report is being described as a code red for humanity, who need to stop using fossil fuels and focus on taking care of Earth.
*) Greek PM apologises for govt’s failure in responding to wildfires
The prime minister of Greece has publicly apologised for the government's failure in tackling wildfires that are burning across the country for an eighth day.
The country is now counting the high cost after homes, farms and livelihoods were destroyed.
More than 500 fires are burning across mainland Greece and some of its outlying islands, forcing the evacuation of hundreds of villages and thousands of people.
*) Prince Andrew sued for sexually abusing a woman three times
Britain's Prince Andrew has been sued for sexually abusing a woman three times, 20 years ago.
Virginia Giuffre who was 18 at the time, claims she was trafficked for sex by Jeffrey Epstein.
She's filed a civil complaint in New York accusing Prince Andrew of abusing her at the London home of Epstein's longtime associate, Ghislaine Maxwell.
And finally ...
*) Jury selection in R.Kelly trial begins
Jury selection for R.Kelly's trial began in a federal New York court.
The disgraced R&B singer faces a host of charges including racketeering, sexual exploitation of a child, kidnapping, bribery and forced labor, spanning from 1994 to 2018, across several states.
All jurors will remain anonymous and be escorted to and from court by US marshals.
*) Wildfires continue burning in Europe
Thousands of wildfires are raging across southern Europe, as heatwaves and droughts continue to fuel the blazes.
Firefighters are now racing to contain them before they devastate more land and communities.
Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Russia and countries in the Balkans are all badly affected.
*) Rwandan troops help retake Mozambican city from Daesh-linked group
Daesh-affiliated gunmen have been beaten by Rwandan forces and booted out of a town in Mozambique.
Mocimboa da Praia in gas-rich Cabo Delgado province, was the de facto headquarters of the militant group.
Since it began, the insurgency in the African country has left at least 3,000 dead and over 800,000 displaced.
*) Myanmar’s health system buckling under Covid wave
Hospitals are on the brink of collapse in Myanmar as a devastating third wave hits the country.
There's a large shortage of medical supplies and beds.
Human rights groups say the junta is putting more stress on the crippled healthcare system by directing resources to military-run hospitals.
*) Team USA finish Olympics with most medals
The Tokyo Olympics Games are over and Team USA came out as top finishers with 113 medals.
Going into the final day, second-place China had the lead with 88 medals, but US wins in women's volleyball, basketball and cycling catapulted them to the top.
Hosts Japan finished third with 58 medals.
And finally ...
*) PSG ready to welcome Lionel Messi to their club
Football superstar Lionel Messi is expected to arrive in Paris later today to finalise his move to PSG.
ESPN reports the 34-year-old will sign a two-year deal with an option for a third.
Messi on Sunday said goodbye to FC Barcelona, his club of over 21 years, in an emotional press conference.
*) Heatwave fans wildfires across Europe
Severe heatwaves, dry weather and hot winds are fanning wildfires across Europe.
Hundreds of thousands of hectares of land have burned in Italy, Spain, Greece, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Russia and Turkey.
Thousands of firefighters and volunteers backed by aerial support are still fighting these fires.
Forecasters say the hot weather will continue in these countries for at least another week.
*) Efforts continue to control forest fires in Turkey
Meanwhile, Turkey has contained 191 forest fires in more than 40 provinces over the last nine days.
Special equipment, crews and firefighting aircrafts have all been deployed by neighbouring and EU countries.
Up until Friday morning, firefighters were still trying to bring 13 blazes under control along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.
*) Raging Dixie fire leaves California town in ruins
In the US, families are picking up the pieces after a wildfire tore through California's Greenville leaving nearly every home and business in ruins.
The deadly Dixie Fire has been raging for three weeks, and is over 1,300 square km in size.
Firefighters are trying to outpace winds and dry conditions that have caused Dixie to grow so large.
*) US Covid-19 cases hits six-month high
Coronavirus cases have jumped dramatically in the US as the country records a six-month high, with case numbers up by over 43 percent.
The highly infectious Delta variant now accounts for the majority of new cases.
States with the lowest vaccination rates have the most cases, with Florida, Texas and Louisiana hit particularly hard.
And finally ...
*) Barcelona fail to give new deal to Leo Messi
Free agent footballer Lionel Messi has opened talks with other clubs because Barcelona has failed to give him a new contract.
The 34-year-old was expected to extend his time at the club by penning a new five-year deal.
Messi had even agreed to a salary reduction of 50 percent, but Barcelona failed to restructure financially in order to get the deal over the line.
*) UN concerned with safety of Afghan civilians
The UN says it's deeply concerned about the safety of tens of thousands of civilians in Afghanistan who are trapped by fighting between govt forces and the Taliban.
The insurgents have stepped up attacks in multiple provinces since US and NATO forces began withdrawing from the country.
Fighting has been particularly heavy around the city of Herat, near the western border with Iran, and Lashkar Gah and Kandahar in the south.
*) Kashmiris warned not to strike on annexation anniversary
Indian police are warning Kashmiri businesses not to take part in a shutdown to mark the second anniversary of India's annexation of the disputed Himalayan region.
Syed Ali Geelani, a 91-year-old pro-freedom leader, put the call out for today's mass action.
Two years ago, New Delhi unilaterally changed the semi-autonomous status of disputed Kashmir.
*) Tunisia’s Ghannouchi makes political turnaround
In an eyebrow-raising turnaround, Tunisia's Speaker of Parliament and opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi says he and his Ennahda Movement party support reform efforts by President Kais Said.
Last week, the president fired the prime minister and dissolved the government.
Many, including Ghannouchi, heavily criticised Said's actions, saying it amounted to a coup.
Ghannouchi now says he sees this an opportunity for the country.
*) Anti-govt protests in Ghana
Thousands have protested in Ghana, calling on the govt to improve the country's economy.
They're blaming the president for the economy's poor performance.
Protesters say rising prices and the coronavirus pandemic is making life very hard for citizens, especially the youth.
And finally ...
*) Parchment beats Holloway to gold in 110m men’s hurdles
Jamaican Hansle Parchment has beaten US world champion Grant Holloway to win gold in the men's Olympic 110m hurdles.
Parchment clocked 13.04s, with Holloway taking silver and another Jamaican, Ronald Levy, winning bronze.
The 31-year-old Jamaican made no mistake as he won the first global medal of his career.
*) Explosions rock Afghan capital
Multiple explosions and gunfire have rocked Afghanistan's capital Kabul, killing at least six people.
The first explosion was near the home of a minister while the second occurred a short time later.
Govt forces are battling Taliban insurgents across the country as they try to seize control of major cities.
*) Hot weather hampers firefighting efforts in Turkey
Eleven fires are still burning out of control in southern Turkey.
Firefighters and volunteers have been struggling as strong winds and hot temperatures stall their progress.
The EU has sent three firefighting planes, as support from the international community continues.
*) No justice a year after Beirut port blast
Today marks a year since a massive explosion killed 218 people and destroyed nearly half of Lebanon's capital.
Over 7,000 people were injured and many were left without limbs.
With political corruption rife, civilians don't know if justice will ever be served by the courts.
*) Inquiry finds NY Gov Cuomo sexually harassed 11 women
An investigation by the New York State Attorney General has found that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo sexually harassed multiple women and violated federal and state law.
The report reveals his office was a toxic environment for women.
Cuomo refuted the findings of the report and maintained his innocence.
And finally ...
*) McLaughlin sets new world record in women’s 400m hurdles
Sydney McLaughlin of Team USA smashed her own world record as she stormed to victory in the Olympic women's 400m hurdles final.
McLaughlin powered home in 51.46s, with Dalilah Muhammad claiming silver and Femke Bol taking bronze.
The 21-year-old’s blistering time bettered her world record set in Oregon in June, when she ran in 51.90s.
*) Taliban attacks Afghan provincial capitals
Afghan President Ashraf Ghani is blaming his country's deteriorating security situation on US and NATO troop withdrawal.
Assaults by the Taliban on provincial capitals are intensifying.
Thousands of civilians have been forced to flee their homes amid fears the cities could soon fall into the hands of the insurgents.
*) Hot weather hampering firefighting efforts in Turkey
Firefighters are still working tirelessly across Turkey to contain wildfires that are threatening towns and cities.
One of the worst-hit areas is Mugla, where four massive forest fires are still burning.
In Antalya, strong winds, searing temperatures and low humidity are hampering firefighting efforts.
*) Sheikh Jarrah families to wait another week for verdict
Israel's Supreme Court has failed to deliver a final verdict on the forced expulsion of Palestinians from their homes in Sheikh Jarrah.
Families must wait for another week to hear the final ruling on their appeal.
The case has become an international cause, with millions around the world voicing their support for the affected families.
*) Hundreds protest Pakistan lockdown
Hundreds of people rallied against the latest coronavirus measures in Pakistan's Karachi.
A new lockdown, which began over the weekend, is set to end on Sunday.
Authorities say they imposed tougher measures to curb a surge in new infections and fatalities, but demonstrators say their livelihoods are in jeopardy.
And finally ...
*) Boeing to launch uncrewed test flight to ISS
Boeing will attempt an uncrewed spaceflight to the International Space Station on Tuesday.
The aviation company's Starliner capsule will launch on an Atlas V rocket built by the United Launch Alliance.
If successful, the mission will entail a pick-up and drop off of cargo from the ISS.
*) Wildfires brought under control in Turkey
At least eight people have died as firefighters continue taking out forest fires across Turkey.
So far, 117 out of 125 fires have been brought under control.
Families who evacuated affected areas are now returning back to their homes.
*) Wildfires in Greece, Italy
Meanwhile, at least 300 firefighters are battling wildfires in the west of Greece.
Several villages have been evacuated as the fires burn through pine forests and olive groves.
And in Italy, more than 800 wildfires were recorded over the weekend, fanned by hot winds from a heatwave.
*) Iran accused of attacking oil tanker
The US and the UK are accusing Iran of carrying out a drone attack on an oil tanker that resulted in two deaths.
Last week, a drone targeted merchant tanker Mercer Street, killing two crew members, a Brit and a Romanian.
The tanker is managed by an Israeli company, and Tel Aviv says this was the reason the ship was targeted. Iran has denied any involvement. *) Zoom pays out $85M in lawsuit settlement
Video software firm Zoom has agreed to pay $85 million to settle a lawsuit in the US.
The company has been accused of violating users' privacy rights by sharing their personal data with Facebook, Google and LinkedIn.
It's also alleged that it allowed hackers to disrupt Zoom meetings in a practice called Zoombombing.
And finally ...
*) Italy’s Jacobs sprints to 100m glory
Italy’s Lamont Marcel Jacobs has won gold in the 100m sprint event at the Tokyo Olympics.
In a dramatic final, Britain's Zharnel Hughes was disqualified for a false start leaving a seven man field.
Jacobs won with a time of 9.80 seconds ahead of USA's Fred Kerley and Canada's Andre de Grasse.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, July 30th:
*) Syrian regime continues attack on Daraa
Syrian regime forces are attacking Daraa in the south, trying to regain control of some areas from opposition groups.
They're targeting populated areas with rockets and artillery fire, killing at least 15 Syrian civilians as regime soldiers reportedly defect during the fighting.
Activists have warned Daraa is facing a medical crisis after the regime destroyed the area's only medical centre on Wednesday.
*) Afghan forces repel Taliban attack on outskirts of Herat city
Afghan forces repelled a Taliban attack on the outskirts of Afghanistan's western city of Herat, officials have said.
The Taliban recently seized several districts around the city as well as two border crossings in the province along the frontiers with Iran and Turkmenistan.
The insurgents launched their assault in early May, soon after the US-led foreign forces began their final withdrawal which is now almost complete.
*) Biden orders tough vaccination rules for federal workers
US President Joe Biden has announced new pandemic requirements to boost Covid-19 vaccination rates for millions of federal workers and contractors.
Federal workers will have to sign forms attesting they’ve been vaccinated or comply with new rules on mandatory masking, weekly testing, and distancing.
US citizens will be given up to 100 dollars if they get jabbed, with Biden also urging the public to go back to wearing masks while indoors, even if vaccinated.
*) Turkey battles forest fires in country's south
Scorching heat and strong winds have fanned forest fires in southern Turkey, killing at least four people and hospitalising 58.
Nearly 2,000 firefighters battled the flames of 20 fires that erupted across six Turkish provinces in the last two days.
Dozens of houses have been damaged or destroyed in Antalya with farming lands also scorched.
And finally ...
*) Scarlett Johansson sues Disney over ‘Black Widow’ release
Scarlett Johansson is suing Disney for releasing the superhero movie "Black Widow" on streaming at the same time as in theatres, alleging a breach of contract.
Johansson was entitled to a percentage of box office receipts from the much-anticipated Marvel film, according to a lawsuit filed at the Los Angeles Superior Court.
The movie was originally due for a big-screen release in 2020 but was delayed multiple times due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
*) Residents flee as winds fan massive wildfire in southern Turkey
A massive forest fire in Turkey's Antalya has spread to the town of Manavgat, with at least one person reported dead.
The town mayor said flames had spread as far as the town centre, where many buildings were being evacuated.
Antalya Mayor Muhittin Bocek said the fire had started at four different points and four neighbourhoods had been evacuated as yet.
*) Peru's Castillo, in first speech as president, pledges to heal colonial wounds
Pedro Castillo said Peru's colonial wounds still ran deep and he would seek to heal them in his inaugural speech as president.
Colonial-era divisions that separated classes and races in Peru remained, Castillo said, speaking on the day that marked 200 years since the country declared independence from Spain.
He sought to calm fears among the business community, who had sought to portray him as a communist, vowing a "new deal with private investors."
*) Tunisian president replaces head of national TV
Tunisian President Kais Saied has fired the head of the national television station – one of two dozen officials sacked since Sunday.
Saied on Sunday invoked emergency powers to seize control of government, remove the prime minister and freeze Parliament in a move his foes have called a coup.
Mohamed al Dahach, Wataniya's CEO, was removed after he claimed the army forbade the station from inviting union and human rights representatives to a show. The army denied the accusation.
*) Cambodia imposes virus curbs along Thailand border over Delta fears
Cambodia has imposed a lockdown in eight provinces bordering Thailand to prevent the spread of the Delta variant of the coronavirus.
The lockdown bans people from leaving their homes, gathering in groups and conducting business. Border checkpoints with Thailand will also be closed except for emergencies.
Cambodia and Thailand managed to largely contain the virus for most of last year, but are facing stubborn outbreaks driven by the Delta variant.
And finally ...
*) Living up to the hype: Dressel wins 1st individual gold medal
At an Olympics where some of America's biggest stars have faltered, Caeleb Dressel lived up to the hype.
Dressel claimed the first individual Olympic gold medal of his career with two furious laps of the pool, winning the 100-metre freestyle over defending champion Kyle Chalmers.
As is his style, Dressel dove into the pool and came up with the lead.
*) Tunisia's biggest party ready for elections, warns against 'autocratic regime'
Tunisia's biggest political party, Ennahda, is calling for dialogue after President Kais Saied sacked the prime minister and suspended parliament.
Saied has been accused of launching a coup. But he says he's acting within Tunisia's constitution.
The party's top official said it is ready to go to early legislative and presidential elections while warning against delays as a pretext to maintain the status quo.
*) US police officers testify at first House hearing on Capital riots
A US House select committee has held its first hearing into the deadly attack on the Capitol building in Washington, DC on January 6.
At least five people were killed as a mob of former president Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the building.
Four police officers shared testimony of being attacked while trying to protect the building. Officer Daniel Hodges testified he had no doubt that the rioters were there to kill members of Congress.
*) Landslide kills Rohingya refugees at Cox' Bazar camp
At least six Rohingya refugees, including children, have been killed in a landslide that hit their camp in Bangladesh.
It happened at Cox's Bazar refugee camp, in which more than a million people reside.
Heavy monsoon rains have prompted Bangladeshi authorities to relocate thousands of Rohingya to safer areas.
*) Torrential rain triggers mudslides in towns around Lake Como
Extreme weather continues to grip Europe, this time Italy. Dozens of houses have been hit by mudslides and floods near Lake Como, the popular holiday hotspot.
Houses and villas were submerged in debris in the towns of Laglio, Cernobbio and Brienno.
Italian firefighters carried out more than 60 rescues in the area.
And finally ...
*) Vatican tries former senior cardinal on corruption charges
A landmark fraud trial of ten people has started at the Vatican. It includes a cardinal who was once a close ally of the Pope.
Cardinal Angelo Becciu is the most senior Vatican official to be tried for financial crimes after Pope Francis removed his immunity.
Becciu is accused of misusing Church funds causing the Vatican to lose millions of dollars.
*) Tunisia PM: Will hand over responsibility to whomever the president chooses
Dismissed Tunisian premier Hichem Mechichi has said he will hand over responsibility to whomever the president chooses.
His comments came as clashes erupted outside the army-barricaded parliament after President Kais Saied dismissed Mechichi and suspended parliament for 30 days.
Saied has now imposed a night curfew that will last for at least a month.
The Tunisian president says he's acting within the constitution in suspending parliament but his opponents say it's a coup.
*) Biden says US combat mission in Iraq to conclude by year-end
President Joe Biden has said the US combat mission in Iraq will conclude by the end of the year but will continue to assist Baghdad in its fight against Daesh.
The statement followed a strategic meeting between Biden and the Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al Kadhimi at the White House.
The US has additional concerns about an increase in attacks on its bases and troops in Iraq, assaults that have been linked to Iranian backed militias.
*) At least 57 migrants die in shipwreck off Libyan coast
At least 57 people drowned after a boat capsized off the Libyan coast near Khums, the UN's International Organization for Migration has said.
Survivors said at least 20 women and two children were among those who drowned, IOM spokesperson Safa Msehli said in a tweet.
Hundreds of thousands of people have made the perilous crossing in the last years, many fleeing conflict and poverty in Africa and the Middle East.
*) Koreas restore cross border communications, seek improved ties
North and South Korea said they have restored cross-border communications.
The North cut off all official military and political links with the South last June after activists allegedly sent anti-Pyongyang leaflets over the border.
The leaders of the two Koreas have exchanged letters since April to improve ties, the president’s office said, and agreed to restore the hotlines as the first step.
And finally ...
*) Britney Spears' new lawyer files to remove father's control
Britney Spears’ new attorney has petitioned to oust her father from the conservatorship that has controlled her life and money for 13 years.
Spear’s attorney requested in legal filings that the court replace Jamie Spears with a certified public accountant as the overseer of the singer's finances.
The judge will rule in late September on the bid to remove Jamie Spears from the control of an estate estimated to be worth $60 million.
*) Tunisian president suspends parliament, dismisses PM
Tunisian President Kais Saied says he will assume executive power after suspending parliament and sacking Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi.
Parliament Speaker Rached Ghannouchi said Saied's move is nothing but a "full-fledged coup" after soldiers at parliament did not allow him and other lawmakers to enter the building.
Saied's decision comes after violent protests against the government rocked several Tunisian cities amid a spike in Covid-19 infections and a worsening economy.
*) US offers further air support to Afghan troops amid Taliban offensive
The United States will continue to carry out air strikes in support of Afghan forces fighting the Taliban, a regional US commander has said.
US has drawn down troops in recent weeks, prompting an escalation in the Taliban's offensive as it takes rural districts and surrounds provincial capitals.
Meanwhile, the UN said nearly 2,400 Afghan civilians were killed or injured in May and June, warning of an "unprecedented" number of civilian deaths in over a decade.
*) Kidnappers in Nigeria release 28 schoolchildren
Gunmen in northwestern Nigeria who kidnapped 121 students at a high school in early July have released 28 of them, a school official has said.
The attackers stormed Bethel Baptist High School in Kaduna state on July 5, abducting students who were sleeping in their dorms.
Nigerian authorities have attributed the kidnappings to what they call armed bandits seeking ransom payments.
*) Evacuations ordered after two California wildfires converge into one
California's largest wildfire has merged with a smaller blaze and destroyed homes in remote areas where firefighters have limited access.
The Dixie fire gained ground over the weekend and was only 21 percent contained, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said.
Crews battling the California fire that incinerated more than 77,000 hectares are preparing for potential lightning storms triggered by smoke columns.
And finally ...
*) Early honours for Titmus in Olympic pool battle with Ledecky
The Olympics have finally begun.
Highlights from the 2020 Tokyo games so far include 13-year-old Momiji Nishiya winning the inaugural women's skateboarding gold.
Teen swimmer Ahmed Hafnaoui won gold for Tunisia at the 400-metre freestyle while Team USA were beaten by France in a huge Olympic basketball upset.
Meanwhile, organisers reported 16 new Olympics-related coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of cases to 148.
*) Tigray assault on Ethiopia's Afar causes heavy casualties, displacement
At least 20 civilians have been killed and tens of thousands displaced in clashes between rebels and pro-government forces in Ethiopia's Afar region.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into Tigray last November to oust the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front and fighting has dragged on.
Tigrayan forces have now mounted attacks in neighbouring Afar, marking an expansion of an eight-month-old conflict into a previously untouched area.
*) Pentagon: US carried out recent air strikes to repel Afghan Taliban
The US has carried out air strikes to back the Afghan army's bid to repel the Taliban, as international troops continue to exit Afghanistan.
Pentagon's confirmation of air strikes comes after a top general said the Taliban control half of all district centres.
On Thursday, US General Mark Milley warned that Taliban insurgents appear to have “strategic momentum” in the fight for control of Afghanistan.
*) Madagascar says it foiled bid to assassinate president, six arrested
Madagascar has foiled an attempt to assassinate President Andry Rajoelina, arresting at least six suspects, including two French nationals.
The country’s Public Security Minister said the arrests comprise "a foreigner, two dual nationals and three Madagascans."
Rajoelina was sworn in as president of Madagascar in 2019 after a hard-fought election and a constitutional challenge from his rival.
*) Troubled Tokyo Olympics set to open under Covid cloud
The most troubled Olympics in modern history are finally under way in Tokyo as more participating athletes contract Covid.
Friday's opening ceremony will take place with Japan's capital in a state of emergency.
After a one-year postponement, the Games are facing scandals over officials and fears that the global gathering of athletes will become a colossal super-spreader event.
And finally ...
*) Wolf Alice, Arlo Parks and Ghetts among Mercury Prize nominees
Singer-songwriters Arlo Parks and Celeste, rapper Ghetts and past winner Wolf Alice are among 12 acts in the running for this year's Mercury Prize.
First handed out to rockers Primal Scream in 1992, the annual thirty-four-thousand-dollar ($34,385) British music award shortlists 12 albums released in the United Kingdom in the past year.
Considered less mainstream than the annual BRIT Awards, it is open to all music genres.
*) US says Taliban has 'strategic momentum' in Afghanistan
The Taliban appears to have "strategic momentum" in its Afghanistan offensive but its victory is far from assured, US joint chiefs of staff chairman General Mark Milley has said.
Over the past few months, the Taliban has continued to seize more territory, with fighting intensifying since the withdrawal of most foreign troops.
But the insurgent group has none of Afghanistan's main cities, Milley told a press conference.
*) Cities in China submerged after several rivers burst their banks
At least 33 people have been killed by floods in central and western China. The amount of rainfall in some areas has been at levels expected only once every thousand years.
Zhengzhou city was the worst hit. Images inside a subway shared online in real-time showed water rise to passengers' necks.
At least a dozen people died before rescuers were able to cut survivors free from carriages.
*) Two more athletes test positive, 87 total cases recorded
In Tokyo, two more athletes in the Olympic Village have tested positive for Covid-19.
Organisers say 12 new cases have been recorded overall, bringing the total to 87.
Meanwhile, the opening ceremony show director has been fired after comments he previously made on the Holocaust surfaced.
*) US, Germany agree on completion of Russian gas pipeline
Washington has reached a deal with Berlin to allow the completion of a controversial pipeline that will take gas from Russia directly to Germany.
The agreement over the Nord Stream 2 pipeline means there will be no new US sanctions on any countries or companies working on the project.
US Congress has warned the pipeline could be used as leverage against European allies.
And finally ...
*) Weinstein pleads 'not guilty' to sex crimes charges in LA
Harvey Weinstein has pleaded not guilty to four charges of rape and seven of sexual assault in his second trial, this time in California.
The former Hollywood producer is accused of attacking five women between 2004 and 2013.
If convicted, the charges could bring a sentence of 140 years.
The convicted rapist was extradited to California from New York where he's serving a 23-year prison term for sexual assault and rape.
*) At least 12 killed in flooding in southwestern China
At least 12 people have been killed by floods in central China.
Torrential rain caused riverbanks to burst and left streets in dozens of cities submerged.
China’s military blasted a dam to release floodwaters threatening Henan, one of its most heavily populated provinces. More than 10-thousand people in Henan province have been evacuated.
*) Chancellor Angela Merkel promises government aid within days
German officials are under pressure to explain how one of the world's richest nations was so unprepared for last week's catastrophic flooding.
Chancellor Angela Merkel's cabinet will meet on Wednesday to approve a massive relief package to rebuild German regions destroyed in historic flooding and better protect them in future.
The disaster has claimed at least 196 lives across Europe, with many people still missing.
*) Former Trump aide arrested for acting in US as foreign agent
In the United States, a former key aide of Donald Trump has been arrested on charges of secretly acting as a foreign agent.
Tom Barrack is accused of illegally lobbying Trump on behalf of the United Arab Emirates.
The charges include failing to register as a foreign agent, conspiracy, and obstruction of justice.
*) Iran imposes six-day lockdown in Tehran as virus surges
Iran has rolled out its fifth lockdown in Tehran, reporting more than 27,000 new infections and 250 fatalities in the past 24 hours.
The surge is being driven by the highly transmissible Delta variant and a slow vaccine rollout.
A code red warning has been issued for Iran's capital, indicating almost all hospital beds are occupied.
And finally ...
*) Olympic Games kick off with softball in Fukushima
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics kicked off with a women's softball match between Japan and Australia.
The host nation beat the Aussies 8-1 in five innings.
The event took place two days before the official opening ceremony of Tokyo 2020 and was held without spectators due to pandemic related restrictions.
*) More than 30 killed in suicide attack in Baghdad's Sadr City
A suicide attack in Iraq's capital, Baghdad, has killed at least 35 people and wounded dozens more on the eve of the Muslim Eid al Adha festival.
The explosion hit a crowded market in Baghdad's Shia-majority suburb Sadr City, where shoppers were buying food for festivities.
At least seven children were among the dead in what appears to be the deadliest bombing in Baghdad in six months.
*) Suspected rocket attack on Afghan presidential palace: local media
At least two rockets were fired in Afghanistan's capital at the presidential palace ahead of a speech by President Ashraf Ghani.
The rockets, fired at around 8 am Afghanistan time were heard across the fortified Green Zone that houses the palace and several embassies.
There were no immediate reports of injuries. President Ghani and others in the vicinity continued with Eid prayers despite multiple loud explosions, TV channels reported.
*) Peru socialist Castillo confirmed president after battle over results
Pedro Castillo [castiyo] has been declared the winner of Peru's presidential election, defeating politician Keiko Fujimori by 44,000 votes.
The country's electoral authority released the official results on Monday evening, more than a month after the run-off election took place.
During his campaign, Castillo, a union leader and teacher, pledged to redraft the constitution and hike taxes on mining firms.
*)US, allies blame China for malicious hacks, Microsoft cyberattack
The US, UK and EU have accused China of carrying out a major cyber-attack earlier this year.
At least 30,000 organisations were affected globally in the attack targeting Microsoft Exchange servers. Western security services called the incident a smash-and-grab raid.
On Tuesday, Chinese authorities denied the accusations, calling them "groundless" and "irresponsible".
And finally ...
*) Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al Adha
Muslims around the world are celebrating the first day of Eid al Adha, with coronavirus restrictions still in place.
This eid or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is marked by communal prayers, social gatherings and, for some, the slaughtering of livestock to give meat to the poor.
But the holiday comes as many countries battle the Delta variant, prompting some to impose new restrictions.
*) Merkel tours 'surreal' flood scene, vows aid, climate action
Chancellor Angela Merkel has vowed aid and climate action after witnessing the devastation left by floods in Germany.
At least 180 people are confirmed dead and hundreds of others are still unaccounted for since Wednesday in the flood-ravaged region of western Germany.
Authorities in North Rhine-Westphalia say the floods are a "catastrophe of historic proportion".
*) Afghan-Taliban peace talks fail to reach breakthrough
Peace negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban insurgents ended on Sunday without a major breakthrough.
In a joint statement after talks in Doha, they pledged to expedite negotiations in their next face-to-face meeting but no date has been set.
Both sides have been convening on and off for months but Taliban insurgents have continued their violent offensive across Afghanistan, capturing several districts and border crossings.
*) Hundreds of people in Iraq protest against the killing of activists
Hundreds of people in Iraq have rallied across the capital, Baghdad. They're calling for accountability in the killing of demonstrators and activists.
According to the United Nations, more than 70 activists have been targeted since 2019.
Demonstrators are also demanding reforms to the justice system and the release of prisoners of conscience.
*)Corruption trial of former South African president to resume
South Africa's jailed ex-president Jacob Zuma is scheduled to attend a virtual courtroom for his corruption trial despite last week's deadly violence in the country.
Protests and looting began following his imprisonment for contempt of court. At least 200 people lost their lives in the recent riots.
Zuma is currently facing 16 charges including fraud, bribery and money laundering. The 79-years-old former leader pleaded not guilty.
And finally ...
*) Saudi Arabia stages second scaled-down hajj of coronavirus era
No foreigners are attending the Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj for a second year after Saudi Arabia restricted it to just citizens and residents.
The kingdom has also capped attendance to a maximum of 60,000 people in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Health authorities confirmed at a briefing on Sunday that not a single coronavirus case had been reported amongst the pilgrims.
*) Dozens die and more missing after floods in Germany, Belgium
More than 80 people have reportedly died after flash floods in Germany and Belgium, with dozens more feared missing.
The extreme weather has turned streams and streets into raging torrents, which have crushed houses and cars.
With more rain in the forecast, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel says her government will help in the rebuilding.
*) Pentagon: US military trained Colombian soldiers involved in Haiti hit
The hit squad involved in Haitian President Jovenel Moise's assassination had been hired via a shadowy Miami company, an initial probe has revealed.
The Pentagon also confirmed that some Colombian soldiers accused of involvement in the assassination had received US military training.
Haitian authorities said Moise was shot dead at his home on July 7 by a unit of assassins including 26 Colombians and two Haitian Americans.
*) Lebanon's PM-designate steps down after months of deadlock
Lebanon's Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri has stepped down after failing to form a government, nine months after being assigned the task.
He says the decision was made because of key differences with President Michel Aoun.
The news is a huge blow for the country, which is experiencing an almost complete economic meltdown.
*) Taliban agrees on ceasefire with Afghan officials in Badghis province
Governor of Afghanistan's Badghis province Hesamuddin Shams says "an indefinite ceasefire" had been negotiated with local Taliban leaders.
He added that no time frame had been set for a truce, which comes after the Taliban last week stormed the provincial capital Qala-e-Naw.
Meanwhile Pakistan has confirmed that theTaliban were in control of a key town on the Afghan side of the Spin Boldak-Chaman border crossing.
And finally ...
*) Dutch teen to fly Blue Origin’s first passenger spaceflight
An 18-year-old will become the youngest person to fly to space, with an aviation pioneer who will become the oldest at age 82.
Blue Origin said Oliver Daemen will be the first paying customer, but did not disclose the price of his ticket.
Daemen snagged the fourth and last seat on the space capsule after a $28 million auction winner stepped aside because of a scheduling conflict.
*) Failed July 15 coup in Turkey: A night to remember
Turkey marks an important victory for its people remembering the first time in the country's history that a military takeover failed and democracy triumphed.
Five years ago, on the night of July 15, renegade Turkish soldiers tried to topple President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, using combat planes and tanks.
Around 251 people, many of them civilians, were killed and at least 2,000 wounded, as the people stood up to defeat the FETO terror group’s coup attempt.
*) S.African govt plans troop surge to quell unrest -reports
South Africa plans to deploy up to 25,000 soldiers in two provinces that have suffered days of looting, arson and violence, its defence minister said.
Triggered by the jailing of ex-president Jacob Zuma last week, protests have widened into an orgy of looting and an outpouring of anger over the hardship and inequality.
More than 70 people have been killed in the unrest and hundreds of businesses have been wrecked causing food and fuel supplies to run short.
*) Afghan forces 'repel' Taliban from Pakistan border crossing: govt
The Taliban reportedly flew their flag on the Spin Boldak-Chaman border gate between Afghanistan and Pakistan after claiming to have captured the crossing.
Afghan authorities say Taliban’s claims of controlling the key border crossing are untrue and that an attack on Spin Boldak post had been repelled
Meanwhile, Tajikistan said that almost 350 Afghan refugees had crossed into the country, fleeing the assault in Afghanistan by Taliban fighters as foreign forces withdrew.
*) Mass grave of PKK/YPG victims found in northern Syria’s Afrin
At least 35 bodies of people killed by the YPG/PKK terrorists were found in the northern Afrin district of Syria, Turkey’s defence ministry said.
There is the possibility of recovering more bodies since excavations are still ongoing in the area that the YPG/PKK held until Turkish forces pushed them out in 2018.
Since 2016, Turkey has launched successful anti-terror operations across its border in northern Syria to prevent the formation of a terror corridor and enable the peaceful settlement of residents.
And finally ...
*) Britney Spears wins right to new lawyer in battle to remove dad
Britney Spears has won the right to choose her own lawyer to help her end a 13-year-long conservatorship.
A judge has ruled that Spears could appoint her own lawyer to help end a guardianship that the pop superstar has slammed as "cruelty."
Outside the courthouse, dozens of fans held a rally, chanting "Free Britney" and calling for the conservatorship to end.
*) Scores killed as rioting continues in South Africa
At least 100 people are dead and over a thousand arrested in South Africa where rioting continues for a fifth day.
Violence, looting, and arson is widespread across KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces despite the deployment of soldiers.
Protests were initially triggered by the jailing of former president Jacob Zuma, but turned into a riot against inequality and a lack of basic services and supplies.
*) Anti-government protests continue in Cuba
At least one person has died during anti-government protests in Cuba's capital Havana.
Demonstrations against food scarcity, medicine shortages, and a surge in coronavirus cases began on Sunday.
The Communist-run country's economy is suffering, but the government says the downturn is because of US sanctions.
*) Dozens protests after negligent fire at Iraqi hospital
Relatives of those who died in a hospital fire in Iraq have been protesting outside the facility, accusing authorities of negligence.
At least 108 people were killed and dozens injured after an oxygen tank exploded and flames engulfed a coronavirus isolation floor of al-Hussein Hospital.
At least 13 people have been arrested including the hospital manager and provincial health chief.
*) Lebanon police and protesters clash outside minister’s home
Police in Lebanon used tear gas and rubber bullets on protesters trying to storm the home of Interior Minister Mohammad Fahmi.
The protest was called by relatives of the victims of last year's Beirut port blast, which killed nearly 200 people.
They accuse Fahmi of zero accountability and of stalling a probe into the explosion.
And finally ...
*) Streaming services dominate Emmy nominations
This year's Emmy Awards nominations are in, and streaming services are in full control.
The Mandalorian and The Crown are tied with 24 nominations each, including Best Drama.
Other top contenders include The Boys, The Handmaid's Tale, and Bridgerton.
The Emmys will be held on September 29th.
*) South Africa deploys army to quell riots
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has deployed the army to quell ongoing riots, which he says could lead to medicine and food shortages.
At least 10 people are dead, and nearly 500 people have been arrested for looting malls and setting buildings and trucks on fire in Durban and Johannesburg.
The riots are in support of former president Jacob Zuma, who's serving a 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court.
*) Scores killed in Covid ward fire in Iraq
At least 60 people have been killed and dozens injured after a fire at Al Hussein hospital in Iraq's Al Nasiriya city.
The fire was reportedly caused by an oxygen tank explosion in the coronavirus isolation ward.
Hospital, health and civil defence managers were all suspended and arrested pending an investigation.
*) Aung San Suu Kyi facing more charges
Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi is facing four additional criminal charges.
Her legal team says they have little detail about the new charges.
She's currently on trial facing a number of charges brought on by the junta, who toppled her from power in a coup in February.
*) Cuba holds its largest anti-govt protests in decades
In a rare display of public anger, thousands of Cubans took to the streets for nationwide protests against shortages of food and other basic essentials.
The protests marked some of the biggest displays of anti-government sentiment in the country in decades.
Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis in decades, as it suffers the consequences of US sanctions imposed by the Trump administration.
And finally ...
*) Deep Dive Dubai opens to public
The world's deepest swimming pool for divers has opened in Dubai.
Divers can descend 60 metres to a sunken city-themed landscape and even play arcade games.
The pool has been verified by Guinness World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool for diving.
*) Alleged mastermind in Haiti assassination arrested
Police in Haiti arrested a man they believe to be the mastermind behind the assassination of president Jovenel Moise.
Police say 63-year-old Haitian national Christian Emmanuel Sanon hired 26 mercenaries and flew them into the country on his private jet to oust and replace the president.
The impoverished Caribbean island has been plunged further into crisis with an uncertain political future.
*) Anti-missile system installed at Kabul airport
Afghanistan has installed an anti-missile system at Kabul airport to repel potential rocket attacks by the Taliban insurgents.
The army has been countering a Taliban offensive with air strikes and a ground assault in 25 provinces as US troops withdraw from the country.
Afghan government troops have also retaken control of two border posts near Iran and Tajikistan.
*) Search for bodies in Florida collapse to take weeks
The total number of bodies recovered from the site of a collapsed condo in Florida has reached 90.
The 12-storey apartment block partially collapsed on June 24.
The bodies of at least 31 people are still missing.
*) Djokovic wins record-equaling 20th Grand Slam title
In a Wimbledon final that will go down in history books, Novak Djokovic secured his 20th Grand Slam to equal Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer's all-time men's record.
Djokovic beat Matteo Berrettini in four sets.
The world number one is now a step closer to completing the Golden Slam, with the Tokyo Olympics and US Open events still to come.
And finally ...
*) Italy beat England in Euro 2020 final
British fans are in mourning as football didn’t come home, but went to Rome!
Italy beat England 3-2 on penalties in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley to be crowned the new kings of European football.
It is Italy's first major trophy since the 2006 World Cup and would’ve been England’s first since the 1966 World Cup.
Biden declares end to US war in Afghanistan, and Tokyo bans spectators from the Olympics
*) Biden says US to leave Afghanistan on August 31
President Joe Biden has said the US military mission in Afghanistan will conclude on August 31.
Biden says it’s "highly unlikely" that one government will control Afghanistan after the US pullout, and urged Kabul to reach a deal with the Taliban.
The announcement comes as the Afghan forces fend off an offensive that has resulted in fighting in most of the country.
*) Egypt, Sudan urge UN action on Nile dam, Ethiopia says 'no'
Egypt and Sudan urged the UN Security Council to undertake “preventive diplomacy” and call for a legally binding agreement to resolve the Nile dam dispute with Ethiopia.
Addia Ababa insists the matter can be resolved by the African Union, and many council members agreed.
Egypt and Sudan say the dam poses “a threat” to people in downstream nations, while Ethiopia says the project is vital to the country’s development.
*) US citizens among several detained over Haiti leader's assassination
Two men believed to be US citizens are among 17 suspects arrested in connection with the assassination of Haiti’s President.
The leader was killed by gunmen at his home in a brazen attack that came amid deepening instability in the country.
Colombia’s government said six of the suspects were retired members of Colombia's army.
*) Parties to Syrian conflict hold main session of Astana talks
The 16th round of Astana talks on Syria's future has taken place in Kazakhstan.
The talks ended with a joint declaration to continue the fight against terrorists in the region.
Other topics of discussion included the situation on the ground, delivery of humanitarian aid, and the resumption of the Syrian Constitutional Committee in Geneva.
And finally ...
*) Sport bodies disappointed but accept Tokyo decision to ban spectators
Sport ruling bodies expressed their disappointment but also accepted Tokyo’s decision to ban spectators from the Olympics over Covid-19 fears.
Most Olympic competitions will happen in Tokyo, but a few events will be held outside the Japanese capital.
In other areas, organisers would decide on measures for spectators after discussions with each local governor.
Ex-South African president begins stint in prison, and England reach their first major tournament final in 55 years
*) Ex-South African president begins stint in prison
Former South African president Jacob Zuma has turned himself in to begin serving a 15-month prison sentence for contempt of court.
In a historic ruling, the country’s Constitutional Court last week handed down the sentence after Zuma snubbed anti-graft investigators.
His first application to halt his arrest was heard on Tuesday with the judgement reserved until Friday, while another plea with the Constitutional Court to reconsider and rescind its jail order will be heard next Monday.
*) Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, interim PM takes over
Gunmen have assassinated Haiti’s president and wounded his wife at their home.
The interim prime minister declared a state of emergency before taking charge of the country.
The killing comes amid deepening political and economic instability and a spike in gang violence.
*) Taliban, Kabul wrangle for control of Badghis province
Fighting between Afghan forces and the Taliban over control of Badghis province's capital city rages on.
Govt troops retook control of police headquarters and other key facilities as they cleared the city.
The militants have been advancing for weeks, in an offensive that has accelerated after the US and NATO pulled out from the country.
*) Trump announces anti-censorship lawsuit against tech giants
Former US president Donald Trump has unveiled a lawsuit against tech giants Facebook, Twitter and Google.
Trump was banned from Facebook and Twitter after his repeated false claims of 2020 election fraud fuelled the violent January 6 Capitol siege.
He is being joined in the suit by the America First Policy Institute who have invited thousands of citizens "de-platformed" from social media sites.
And finally ...
*) England survive Denmark scare to reach Euro 2020 final
England will play in their first major tournament final in 55 years after beating Denmark 2-1 in the Euro 2020 semifinals.
The defeat ends Denmark's fairytale run to the semis, the furthest they’ve been at a tournament since winning in 1992.
England will face a dominant and highly focused Italy on Sunday.
*) Hurricane Elsa hits US coast of Florida
Tropical Storm Elsa has been upgraded into a powerful Category 1 hurricane as it hits the US coast of Florida.
Packing winds of up to 120km/h, Elsa has drenched Tampa with heavy rains as it moves inland.
In addition to damaging winds and heavy rains, the US National Hurricane Center is warning of life-threatening storm surges, flooding and isolated tornadoes.
*) Afghan troops return from Tajikistan
Over 1,000 Afghan troops who fled to neighbouring Tajikistan are being brought back to rejoin the fight against the Taliban.
The militant group launched a mass offensive in May, and has taken control of a third of the country.
With US and NATO troops out of the country, and no peace plan in sight, the Afghan government is struggling to keep the Taliban at bay.
*) Astana talks on Syria set to continue
Guarantor states of the Astana peace process will meet for the 16th round of talks to discuss the future of Syria.
Development of a Syrian constitution and the current humanitarian situation will be high on the agenda at the meeting in Kazakhstan.
Nearly four million displaced Syrians are dependent on aid, which Russia is threatening to stop.
*) Norway’s KLP fund
Norway's largest pension fund has stopped investing in 16 companies because of their links to illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied West Bank.
The KLP fund says the companies are contributing to the abuse of human rights by supporting the expansion of Israel.
The companies were on a UN-published list of 112 companies that the UN says is complicit in violating human rights of Palestinians.
And finally ...
*) Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar dies at 98
Veteran Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar, also known as the 'King of Tragedy' for his inspiring roles, has died at the age of 98.
Kumar was hospitalised last week after complaining that he was struggling to breathe.
He's survived by his wife of more than 50 years, actress Saira Banu.
*) Taliban to present its own peace deal to Afghan government
The Taliban says it will present its own peace deal to the Afghanistan government next month, as it continues to gain more territory across the country.
The militant group has taken control of over 150 districts since launching a mass offensive in May.
Afghan troops have also lost key battles in the country's north to the Taliban since the withdrawal of US and NATO troops from the region.
Many government forces have fled to neighbouring Tajikistan while others have surrendered.
*) Hackers demand ransom in biggest cyberattack on record
A Russian-linked cybergang is demanding a $70m Bitcoin ransom after stealing data from hundreds of companies around the world.
The ransomware attack targeted US IT firm Kaseya, whose CEO says up to 1,500 companies are affected.
Among them are small businesses, schools and supermarkets.
*) Another mass student kidnapping in Nigeria
At least 26 Nigerian students have been rescued by police tactical teams.
They were among 140 who were kidnapped on Sunday night from a boarding school in the country's north west.
It's the fourth mass school kidnapping in Kaduna state since December.
*) Drone downed near US embassy in Baghdad
A drone laden with explosives has been intercepted and shot down by American forces near the US embassy in Baghdad.
The drone failed to reach the embassy compound, and no casualties were reported.
US interests in Iraq have been targeted 47 times by Iranian-backed militia groups since the start of the year.
And finally ...
*) England to lift Covid-19 restrictions, including mask wearing
British PM Boris Johnson has announced that most Covid-19 restrictions will be lifted from July 19 and that mask-wearing will become voluntary in England.
Over the past week, countries under the UK have had a combined average of just over 25,000 new infections a day, with almost all being the highly contagious Delta variant.
Johnson's announcement applies to England only and Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland say they will continue keeping restrictions in place.
*) Miami condo building demolished by controlled explosion
A controlled explosion has brought down the entire condo building in Miami which partially collapsed almost two weeks ago.
With Tropical Storm Elsa fast approaching, the building posed a threat to search efforts, so a decision was made to bring it down.
At least 24 people have been confirmed dead and 121 people are still unaccounted for, though hopes of finding anyone alive have diminished.
*) Elsa kills three after battering Caribbean
Meanwhile, Florida's governor has declared a state of emergency in 15 counties as Tropical Storm Elsa is set to hit the state late on Monday.
The storm has already battered the Caribbean leaving at least three people dead.
Many countries, including Cuba have ordered mass evacuations.
*) At least 50 dead after Philippines military plane crashes
At least 50 people were killed and 49 injured after a Philippines military aircraft crash landed.
The plane, carrying over 90 soldiers, reportedly missed the runway while trying to land in Sulu province.
Eyewitnesses say many soldiers jumped out of the aircraft before it hit the ground.
*) Taliban gains more Afghan territory as US prepares to fully withdraw
The Taliban are continuing to advance in northern Afghanistan and are gaining territory in Badakhshan province.
Several hundred Afghan soldiers have abandoned their posts and escaped to Tajikistan.
The Taliban have taken over at least 20 districts in the province in under 48 hours as the US moves to withdraw the last of its troops from the country after nearly 20 years.
And finally ...
*) Scientists create laser system that zaps away Covid
A group of UN-backed scientists together with an Italian tech firm have created a device that pulverises viruses and bacteria, using a laser.
The device forces air through a sterilisation chamber which contains a laser beam filter, but can only kill particles that are airborne.
The tech does not kill viruses and bacteria on surfaces, nor can it stop direct contagion when an infected person sneezes or talks loudly in the proximity of someone else.
*) Canada Day muted as country reckons with treatment of indigenous, other minorities
Multiple cities have scrapped Canada Day celebrations after the discovery of hundreds of unmarked graves at former indigenous schools. Since May, more than 1,000 unmarked graves have been found at former residential Catholic church-run schools in British Columbia and Saskatchewan.
The findings sparked a reckoning with the country's colonial past.
*) Biden consoles Surfside families as search operation resumes
US President Joe Biden and the first lady offered comfort to the families of those killed and missing in the condo collapse as they visited South Florida. Rescue-and-recovery efforts to the search for victims believed to be buried in the rubble resumed after a brief suspension over safety concerns. The 18 confirmed dead so far include two children, aged four and 10 as more than 140 others remain unaccounted for.
*) Ethiopia calls on Tigray forces to adhere to ceasefire as famine looms
Ethiopia’s Foreign Ministry says the government-declared ceasefire with rebel Tigrayan forces is a work in progress and needs both sides' commitment to work. The statement comes after Ethiopian troops left Tigray's regional capital Mekelle on Wednesday after months of fighting. The former rulers of Ethiopia's Tigray region, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), said on Monday they were back in control of the regional capital.
*) Trump Organisation, CFO indicted on tax fraud charges
Donald Trump’s company and its longtime finance chief were charged in what prosecutors called a “sweeping and audacious” tax fraud scheme.
Trump himself was not charged with any wrongdoing, but prosecutors noted he signed some of the checks at the centre of the case.
It is the first criminal case to come out of New York authorities' two-year investigation into the former president's business dealings.
And finally ...
*) Britney Spears' father remains in guardian role as case continues
A Los Angeles court has confirmed a months-old decision denying Britney Spears' request to eject her father from a guardianship that gives him control of her affairs.
The latest ruling is not related to Spears' impassioned plea in court last week to end what she has called an "abusive" conservatorship.
Jamie Spears has largely managed his daughter's finances and personal life since her highly public breakdown more than a decade ago.
Hundreds of deaths linked to historic heatwave in the Pacific Northwest, and US court overturns Bill Cosby’s sex assault conviction
*) Hundreds of deaths could be linked to Northwest heatwave
Chief coroner in Canada's British Columbia province says they've received reports of at least 486 “sudden and unexpected deaths” between Friday and Wednesday.
Normally, she said about 165 people would die in the Canadian province over a five-day period.
LaPointe said in a statement: “While it is too early to say with certainty how many of these deaths are heat related, it is believed likely that the significant increase in deaths reported is attributable to the extreme weather”
*) Syria aid: Turkey in talks with Russia, UNSC members as deadline looms
Turkish FM Cavusoglu and his Russian counterpart Lavrov have discussed the issue of continuing cross-border humanitarian aid to millions of Syrians in need.
Millions of people depend on the humanitarian aid currently funnelled from a single border crossing in Turkey into northwest Syria.
Cavusoglu said the mandate, which expires July 10, should be extended.
*) UN court convicts former Milosevic aides of war crimes in Balkan conflict
Two former Serbian spy chiefs in Slobodan Milosevic's regime have been convicted of war crimes in the last and longest-running trial at the UN tribunal over the 1990s Balkans conflict.
Jovica Stanisic, former head of Serbia's state security service, and his subordinate Franko "Frenki" Simatovic were sentenced to 12 years in jail. It is the first time that Serbian officials have been convicted by a UN court of involvement in crimes in Bosnia.
*) Death toll from Miami condo collapse rises as rescuers find more bodies
Six more bodies have been discovered in the rubble of a collapsed apartment building in Florida, authorities said.
The official death toll now stands at 18 after most of a building in the Miami-area town of Surfside suddenly collapsed early last Thursday.
The search for more than 140 people unaccounted for entered its seventh day, but hopes are dwindling that the rescuers would find anyone alive.
And finally
*) Bill Cosby freed from prison, sex assault conviction overturned
Pennsylvania’s apex court has overturned Bill Cosby’s sexual assault conviction after finding an agreement with a previous prosecutor prevented him from being charged in the case.
Cosby has served more than two years of a three- to 10-year sentence at a state prison near Philadelphia.
He had vowed to serve all 10 years rather than acknowledge any remorse over the 2004 encounter with accuser Andrea Constand.
Scores dead as record-smashing heatwave engulfs parts of Canada and US, and an injured Serena Williams ends her bid for Wimbledon glory in tears
*) Scores dead as record-breaking heat wave grips Canada, US
Scores of deaths have been reported in North America, as Canada recorded its highest ever temperature amid scorching conditions that extended to the US Pacific Northwest.
At least 134 people have died suddenly since Friday in Canada’s Vancouver area, with authorities linking the vast majority to the heat.
The deaths came as Canada set a new all-time high temperature record for a third day in a row Tuesday, reaching 121 degrees Fahrenheit (49.5 degrees Celsius) in Lytton, British Columbia.
*) Tigray rebels gain more ground despite the ceasefire
Rebel fighters in Ethiopia's war-hit Tigray seized control of more territory.
The move comes one day after retaking the local capital Mekele and vowing to drive all "enemies" out of the region.
The rebels' gains and militant rhetoric cast doubt on whether a unilateral ceasefire declared by the federal government would actually lead to a pause in the nearly eight-month-old conflict.
*) Israel opens first embassy in Gulf as Lapid visits UAE
Israel's top diplomat Yair Lapid has opened the Jewish state's first embassy in the Gulf during his trip to the UAE after ties were normalised last year.
He met with his Emirati counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi.
Since their US-brokered normalisation agreement was signed last September, the two countries have signed a raft of deals ranging from tourism to aviation and financial services.
*) South Africa’s Zuma gets 15 months’ jail for evading corruption inquiry
Former South African President Jacob Zuma has been sentenced to 15 months in jail for contempt of court over refusal to cooperate with a corruption inquiry.
Zuma was not in court for the ruling on Tuesday and has been ordered to hand himself over within five days to a police station.
This is the first time in South Africa’s history that a former president has been sentenced to prison.
And finally ...
*) Wimbledon ends in tears for injured Serena
Tennis great Serena Williams limped out of Wimbledon in tears after her latest bid for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles crown ended in injury.
She was leading 3-1 in the first set of her first-round match against Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus when she slipped and had to have her left ankle examined.
Williams returned from receiving medical attention but called it a day at 3-3 and walked off Centre Court in tears.
*) Tigray rebels vow to drive out ‘enemies’ despite ‘ceasefire’
The Ethiopian government has declared a unilateral ceasefire in the northern Tigray region.
But Tigrayan rebels have not acknowledged a ceasefire and have vowed to drive out "enemies" from their region.
This comes after rebel fighters from the Tigray People's Liberation Front retook the regional capital Mekelle from the interim government of the region in a surprise counteroffensive.
*) Death toll from Miami condo collapse rises as crews continue search
In the US, another body has been recovered from the rubble of a collapsed Florida condominium tower, bringing the death toll to 11 on the fifth day.
Some 150 people remained missing as of early Tuesday morning.
Miami-Dade authorities said their efforts were still a search-and-rescue operation but no one has been found alive since hours after the collapse on Thursday.
*) Pro-Iran militias attack US base in Syria after air strikes
Pro-Iranian militias exchanged fire with US troops in eastern Syria on Monday.
The escalation followed deadly US air strikes in Iraq and Syria the previous night.
US air strikes were the second such deadly raid on pro-Iran targets since President Joe Biden took office.
*) Ten million Australians in virus lockdown
About 10 million Australians have been ordered into lockdown as Covid-19 spreads across the country.
The three-day snap lockdown for Brisbane, starting on Tuesday evening, comes on top of similar orders imposed recently in Sydney, Perth and Darwin.
Australia has been broadly successful in containing virus clusters but is now battling flare-ups of the highly contagious Delta variant.
And finally ...
*) T20 World Cup to be moved from India to UAE
The Twenty20 World Cup will be moved to the United Arab Emirates from India due to the coronavirus.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India says it had told the International Cricket Council of its decision to host the event in the UAE in October and November.
Sourav Ganguly, president of BCCI, said the details were being chalked out.
*) US air strikes near Iraq-Syria border leave four dead
We start at the border of Iraq and Syria, where Iran-backed militias say four fighters died in US air strikes as Syrian regime media report that a child was also killed.
American forces targeted facilities used by Iran-backed factions near the Al Qaim border crossing with Syria.
It's the second time President Joe Biden has ordered attacks on the Iraqi-Syrian border.
This time, it's thought to be in response to drone attacks by militias against US personnel and facilities.
*) Exit polls show French far-right party defeat
Exit polls in France's regional elections show a defeat for Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally party amid a low voter turnout.
President Emmanuel Macron's Republic on the Move party also fared poorly and is on course to lose in all of France's 13 mainland regions.
Xavier Bertrand, of the northern region, has emerged as the conservatives' favourite to represent the party in next year's presidential election.
*) South Africa hardens lockdown curbs to combat Delta variant surge
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a tightening of Covid-19 restrictions for 2 weeks from Monday.
South Africa has seen a surge in infections in recent days, reporting 15 thousand new cases on Sunday.
Under the new measures, all gatherings will be prohibited, a curfew will be in place from 9 pm to 4 am, and the sale of alcohol will be banned.
*) At least seven killed, dozens of others wounded in Dhaka
In Bangladesh, at least seven people have been killed and dozens of others injured in an explosion in the capital Dhaka.
That’s according to authorities who also say the blast took place on the ground floor of a three-storey building in central Dhaka.
Police are investigating the cause of the blast but say it was likely caused by a gas line.
And finally ...
*) Belgium edges Portugal to reach Euro 2020 quarterfinals
Belgium held Cristiano Ronaldo scoreless and kept a first-half lead to beat Portugal 1-0 to advance to the quarterfinals of the European Championship.
Belgium, which has never before won a major football title, will next face Italy on Friday in Munich.
Meanwhile, Italy claimed a 2-1 victory over Austria in extra time to qualify for the quarterfinals on Saturday.
US evacuation of Afghan translators and their relatives could reach 50,000 people, and Oscars to honour Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May, Danny Glover
*) US to evacuate Afghan interpreters before military withdrawal complete
The United States is planning to evacuate vulnerable Afghan interpreters before the US military completes its withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The evacuation will include their family members for a total of as many as 50,000 people, said a senior Republican congressman.
The decision by Biden's administration risks creating a sense of crisis in Afghanistan, just a day before Biden meets Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.
*) UN urges Israel to halt building of settlements immediately
The United Nations has said Israel is flagrantly violating international law by expanding settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.
UN chief Antonio Guterres and Mideast envoy Tor Wennesland reported on implementation of a 2016 Security Council resolution that declared settlements have “no legal validity.”
Meanwhile, Israel’s new government advanced plans for 31 West Bank settlement construction projects days after coming into power.
*) More than 750 unmarked graves found at Indigenous school in Canada
A First Nation in Canada's Saskatchewan province has found the unmarked graves of 751 people at a now-defunct residential school, just weeks after a similar discovery in British Columbia rocked the country.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada needed to acknowledge its history of racism against Indigenous peoples in order to "build a better future.”
From the 19th century until the 1970s, more than 150,000 First Nations children were forced to convert to Christianity and not allowed to speak their native languages.
*) Many feared dead in Miami residential building collapse
Many people are feared dead after a wing of a 12-storey beachfront condo building collapsed in a town outside the US city of Miami, Florida.
At least one person was confirmed dead while dozens of residents got trapped under debris.
About half of the building's 130 units collapsed, Miami-Dade county mayor Daniella Levine Cava told a news conference.
And finally ...
*) Samuel L. Jackson, Danny Glover to receive honorary Oscars
The Academy Awards will present Elaine May, Samuel L. Jackson and Liv Ullmann with honorary Oscars and Danny Glover with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.
The honorary Oscars will be doled out in an untelevised ceremony on January 15 in Los Angeles.
They are awarded to honour extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences.
Calls grow to evacuate Afghans to Guam as US troops leave, and New Zealand beat India in World Test final
*) US urged to evacuate Afghan allies to Guam as troops leave
With US and NATO forces facing a September 11 deadline to leave Afghanistan, pressure is mounting to evacuate thousands of Afghans who have helped US forces.
Despite unusual bipartisan support in Congress, the Biden administration hasn't agreed to such a move.
Some have suggested Guam, the US Pacific island territory that served a similar purpose after the Vietnam War.
*) Air strike in Ethiopia’s Tigray kills dozens of people
An airstrike hit a busy market in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray village of Togoga, killing at least 51 people, health workers have reported.
Health workers added that soldiers blocked medical teams from travelling to the scene.
The alleged airstrike comes amid some of the fiercest fighting in the Tigray region since the conflict began in November.
*) Libya elections, removal of foreign forces agreed in Berlin talks
The second Libya conference has ended in Berlin with a final declaration stressing the need for holding elections on December 24 and withdrawal of all foreign forces and mercenaries.
The participants reaffirmed their commitments first made at the Berlin conference in January 2020.
Helped by the United Nations, Libya has over the past year made swift progress in addressing a decade of chaos and violence
*) Apple Daily goes to final print after arrests, asset freeze
Hong Kong's most vocally critical newspaper Apple Daily has said it is printing its last edition after a stormy year.
This comes after it was raided by police who froze their assets and its tycoon owner and other staff were arrested under a new national security law.
Its founder Jimmy Lai is facing charges under the new law for foreign collusion and is currently serving a prison sentence for his involvement in 2019 protests.
And finally ...
*) New Zealand trounce India to win inaugural World Test Championship
New Zealand have defeated India by eight wickets to win the inaugural World Test Championship final at Southampton.
Set a modest target of 139 in 53 overs, New Zealand finished on 140-2 with time to spare in a match extended into a reserve sixth day.
"It's a very special feeling," said New Zealand captain Kane Williamson at the presentation ceremony.
Afghanistan urges international community to push Taliban for talks and Croatia boots Scotland out to reach Euro 2020’s last 16.
*) Afghanistan accuses Taliban of worst violence in 2 decades
Afghanistan’s foreign minister has accused the Taliban of carrying out its worst violence in the past two decades as insurgents carry out a wave of offensives.
Mohammad Haneef Atmar urged the international community to pressure the group to honour a February 2020 agreement with the US to reduce violence and enter peace negotiations.
Atmar told the UN Security Council the community should set up a “mechanism” to monitor enforcement of the deal after the US troop withdrawal.
*) Khashoggi's assassins received paramilitary training in US
Four Saudis who participated in the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi received paramilitary training in the US under a contract approved by the State Department.
That’s according to a New York Times report which says training was provided by Tier 1 Group, which is owned by the private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management.
Khashoggi, a Saudi-born US resident who wrote for the Washington Post, was an outspoken critic of the Saudi leadership, with which he had once been close.
*) US seizes Iran-linked news sites
The US Justice Department has seized 33 Iranian government-controlled media websites.
Visitors to leading Iranian media sites were met with statements declaring the website "has been seized by the United States Government".
The websites were held by the Iranian Islamic Radio and Television Union, itself controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force.
Both IRTVU and IRGC have been placed on the US sanctions blacklist. them.
*) Catalan separatists eye freedom after Spain's Cabinet pardon
Nine Catalan separatist leaders jailed for sedition are eyeing freedom, after Spain’s Cabinet pardoned them.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez hopes the move would cease past confrontations with Catalonia's separatist-led regional government and open room for talks.
The separatists were convicted over a banned referendum in October 2017 that was marred by police violence.
And finally ...
*) Croatia advances at Euro 2020
Croatia has qualified for the last 16 of the Euro 2020 after defeating Scotland 3-1.
The Croatian side broke the deadlock when Nikola Vlasic scored in the 17th minute at Glasgow's Hampden Park.
Scotland exited the tournament in last place in the group with only one point.
*) Ethiopia votes in test for PM Abiy amid reports of abuses
Vote-counting is under way in Ethiopia's twice-delayed parliamentary elections as famine blights its war-torn Tigray region.
The vote is a test for Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, whose rise to power three years ago seemed to signal a break with decades of authoritarian rule.
But he has waged war in the Tigray region and his party has been accused of election abuses, while critics say violence is still prevalent and that freedoms are limited.
*) Iran president-elect refuses to meet Biden
Iran's President-elect Ebrahim Raisi says he will only allow nuclear talks if national interests are guaranteed in his first presser since winning last week’s elections.
Raisi ruled out meeting US President Joe Biden but said there were "no obstacles" to resuming diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia.
The hard-liner cleric won Friday's election in which more than half of voters stayed away after many political heavyweights were barred from running.
*) Belarus opposition head hails 'powerful' joint sanctions
The EU, US, UK and Canada have imposed coordinated sanctions on Belarus in response to “human rights violations” and “the violent repression of democracy”.
It follows the forced landing of a passenger jet in Minsk last month to arrest opposition journalist Roman Protasevich.
Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya said the sanctions sent a "powerful" signal to the regime of President Alexander Lukashenko.
*) Taliban takes control of key Afghan district
Taliban fighters have taken control of Imam Sahib, a key district in Afghanistan's northern Kunduz province and encircled the provincial capital.
The Taliban's gains came as the Pentagon reaffirmed the US troop withdrawal was still on pace to conclude by early September.
Dozens of districts have fallen to the Taliban since May 1, when US and NATO troops began their final departure from Afghanistan.
And finally ...
*) Argentina, Chile through to Copa America quarter-final
Argentina and Chile have booked their places in the Copa America quarter-finals.
Argentina logged its second win in three group matches played, beating Paraguay 1-0.
In the other match, Chile drew 1-1 with Uruguay to end the day with five log points.
*) EU: Iran nuclear deal talks closer to saving 2015 deal
The European Union has said that negotiators are closer to saving the Iran nuclear deal but sticking points remain.
The announcement from Enrique Mora of the European External Action Service comes a day after Ebrahim Raisi, a hardline judge, won Iran’s presidential election.
Sunday’s meeting was part of regular discussions aimed at bringing the US back to the 2015 pact and Iran back into compliance with curbs on its nuclear programme.
*) Ethiopia votes in greatest electoral test yet for Abiy
Ethiopia has begun voting in general elections, the greatest electoral test yet for Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Tigray's war and logistical issues mean ballots wouldn't be cast in more than 100 constituencies of the 547 across the country.
Abiy’s ruling Prosperity Party is widely expected to retain power as opposition groups accused it of harassment, manipulation and threats of violence that echo abuses of the past.
*) Libya reopens highway linking east and west
Libya’s unity government has reopened the coastal highway linking the country’s east and west, which remained closed for years due to fighting.
Interim Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah said the announcement was another key step in a UN-led peace process.
The highway connects the war-torn North African country’s border with Tunisia to its frontier with Egypt.
*) Armenian PM’s party wins snap parliamentary vote
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's party has won snap parliamentary elections with 53.9 percent of the vote.
His rival ex-president Robert Kocharyan's alliance received 21 percent of the vote, the election commission said.
Early elections were called by Pashinyan in a bid to ease public anger over a peace deal he signed with Azerbaijan in November.
And finally ...
*) Italy beat Wales, both advance to round of 16 at Euro 2020
Matteo # scored the only goal as Italy made its three wins out of three games at Euro 2020 by beating Wales 1-0, with both teams advancing to the last 16.
The win means Italy will play the runner-up from Group C in the next round, with Wales facing the team that comes second in Group B.
Italy extended their unbeaten run to 30 games with 25 wins and five draws, a feat last achieved under two-time World Cup winner coach Vittorio Pozzo between 1935 and 1939.
*) Israeli warplanes target besieged Gaza
Israel has launched air strikes on besieged Gaza for a second time this week. No injuries have been reported so far by Palestine's Health Ministry.
The army said it hit sites in both Gaza City and in Khan Yunis in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.
The Israeli army said the air strikes were launched after Palestinians in Gaza again launched incendiary balloons into southern Israel.
*) US to spend $3.2B on treatments for Covid-19, other viruses
The US is devoting $3.2 billion to speed the development of antiviral pills to treat Covid-19 and other viruses that could turn into pandemics.
The new programme will invest in “accelerating things that are already in progress” for Covid-19 but also in treatments for other viruses, said US expert Dr Anthony Fauci.
Health experts have called for a pill that patients could take themselves when symptoms first appear with some candidate drugs in the pipeline.
*) Iran election set to hand presidency to hardline judge
Iranians have begun to vote in a presidential election, which the ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi has been tipped to win.
Some analysts say electing a cleric will weaken Iran's international standing as the country tries to resurrect a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.
After a lacklustre campaign, turnout is expected to plummet to a new low in a country exhausted by a punishing regime of US economic sanctions.
*) N Korea to prepare for ‘both dialogue and confrontation’ with US
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said that the country should prepare for both dialogue and confrontation with the US.
This was Kim’s first direct comment on US President Joe Biden’s administration since the Democrat took office.
Kim has also emphasised the need to create a "favourable external climate" for the North's own initiatives.
And finally ...
*) Nadal pulls out of Wimbledon and Tokyo Olympics to prolong career
Rafael Nadal and Naomi Osaka are sitting out Wimbledon, leaving the oldest Grand Slam tournament without two of the sport's biggest stars.
Nadal announced on social media that he would also miss the Tokyo Olympics to rest and recover after listening to his body.
Osaka’s agent said the four-time Grand Slam champion does plan to head to the Summer Games after skipping Wimbledon for "some personal time".
*) Russia and US to launch nuclear arms control talks
US President Joe Biden says he and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin discussed in detail the steps to adopt arms control measures to reduce the risk of war.
Biden said diplomats and military experts from both countries will discuss the groundwork for future arms control and risk reduction measures.
Putin said that he and Biden agreed in a “constructive” summit to return ambassadors to their posts, lowering tensions.
*) Several arrested as Hong Kong police raid Apple Daily newspaper
Hong Kong police have arrested the chief editor and four other senior executives of the Apple Daily newspaper under the national security law.
Police said five executives were arrested "for collusion with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security".
It is the second time that Hong Kong's police force have conducted an operation on Apple Daily, with police arresting founder Jimmy Lai and other executives last year.
*) Myanmar village burned after fighting; residents blame security forces
Security forces set ablaze a village in central Myanmar after clashing there with people opposing the ruling junta.
At least two elderly people burned to death, several village residents said after the incident.
State television said the blaze at Kin Ma, a village of about 800 people in the Magway region, was caused by “terrorists”.
*) Iran presidential race narrows as more candidates drop out last minute
Iran’s presidential contest is heading toward a showdown between the country’s hard-line judiciary chief and moderate former Central Bank chief.
Ultraconservative lawmaker Alireza Zakani withdrew in the morning hours after reformist Mohsen Mehralizadeh had also thrown in the towel ahead of Friday's vote.
In the afternoon another ultraconservative, Saeed Jalili, also pulled out.
And finally ...
*) China dispatches first crew to new Tiangong space station
The first astronauts for China's new space station have blasted off for the country's longest crewed mission to date.
The trio launched on a Long March-2F rocket for the Tiangong station, where they will spend three months.
It is China's first crewed mission in nearly five years.
*) Israel launches air strikes on besieged Gaza
Israel has launched air strikes on besieged Gaza, the first such strike in the Palestinian enclave since a May ceasefire ended 11 days of war.
The strikes were the first under the new coalition government headed by Naftali Bennett, who took over after ousting former PM Benjamin Netanyahu.
Earlier, more than a thousand ultranationalist Israelis marched in Jerusalem's flashpoint Old City, triggering counterprotests and incendiary balloons launched from Gaza.
*) Fresh farmer-herder clashes in CAR claim more than a dozen lives
At least 14 people have been killed in a revenge attack by Chadian herders after a farmer killed a herder in the far north of the Central African Republic.
A Central African Republic prefect said Chadian herders went on a rampage, killing women and children and torching 66 homes as well as granaries.
The two groups have a long and troubled history in the northern region, where weapons abound and violence often flares after cattle destroy crops.
*) Dozens wounded in car bomb explosion in Colombia
A car bomb has exploded inside a military base used by the 30th Army Brigade in Colombia's border town of Cucuta, leaving 36 people wounded.
Colombia's defence minister said the country's last recognised guerrilla group, the National Liberation Army, is suspected to be behind the attack.
Cucuta is the capital of North Santander state, where criminal groups fight over drug trafficking routes and use the loosely patrolled border with Venezuela to smuggle fuel and weapons.
*) Oldest party wins most seats in Algeria voting
Algeria’s oldest party has won the most seats in weekend legislative elections, with a dismal turnout of 23 percent.
The National Liberation Front, or FLN, secured 105 of 407 parliamentary seats, according to the provisional results.
Independent candidates, including young people new to politics and many others who broke away from the FLN, placed second, winning a total of 78 seats.
And finally ...
*) France 1-0 win over Germany at Euro 2020
Title favourites France launched their Euro 2020 Group F campaign with a 1-0 victory over Germany.
The World champions had German defender Mats Hummels to thank for their win after he scored an own goal in the Group F match.
French fans flooded the streets in Munich and celebrated their win against Germany in the European Championship.
*) Beijing accuses NATO of exaggerating 'China threat theory’
Beijing has accused NATO of exaggerating the threat from China after the Western allies vowed to work together to counter "systemic challenges" posed by its policies.
NATO leaders made the commitment as US President Joe Biden renewed Washington's transatlantic ties at his first summit with the allies.
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his US counterpart Biden met on the sideline of the summit, where they discussed a new commitment to resolving the problems between their countries.
*) ICC seeks to probe Philippines' crackdown on drug crime
The ICC's chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, is seeking a full investigation into crimes against humanity during the Philippines' "war on drugs."
The Philippines left the ICC in 2019 after the court launched a preliminary examination into President Rodrigo Duterte's drug crackdown.
A presidential spokesperson said Duterte would not cooperate with the investigation as the country is no longer a member.
*) Covid-19 deaths in US pass 600,000 milestone
The United States has crossed the grim milestone of 600,000 Covid-19 deaths.
With 70 percent of US adults receiving at least one Covid jab, the vaccine rollout has slowed the pace of fatalities in the country.
It took 113 days to go from 500,000 total US deaths to 600,000 - the second slowest 100,000-death jump since the pandemic began.
*) Suspect charged in terror attack on Canada Muslims
Canada is pressing terrorism charges against a man accused of mowing down a Muslim family with a pickup truck in an attack.
Four members of the Afzaal family were out for a walk in London, Ontario on June 6 when a truck driver struck them on purpose.
Prosecutors said they were adding terrorism charges to four counts of premeditated murder and one of attempted murder levelled last week against 20-year-old Nathaniel Veltman.
And finally ...
*) US runner says tainted burrito led to test for banned substance
Record-setting American runner Shelby Houlihan says she has been banned for four years following a positive steroid test that she blames on a tainted pork burrito.
Houlihan tested positive for the steroid nandrolone in a test administered by the World Anti-Doping last year.
She posted on social media that she has since learned it has “long been understood by WADA that eating pork can lead to a false positive for nandrolone”.
*) G7 vows action on Covid vaccines and climate change
G7 leaders have vowed to start delivering one billion doses of Covid vaccines and step up action on climate change.
The leaders of the rich countries' club largely responded to US President Joe Biden’s push to regain the West’s cohesion after Donald Trump’s tenure.
The Group of Seven agreed to increase climate finance contributions and meet an overdue spending pledge of $100 billion a year to help poorer countries.
*) Naftali Bennett sworn in as Israel’s new prime minister
Israel's parliament has voted in favour of a new government to end Benjamin Netanyahu’s 12-year consecutive tenure as premier.
Ultra-nationalist Naftali Bennett will head the new cabinet for a little over two years before his centrist ally Yair Lapid takes over.
Palestinians described Bennett’s take over as “internal Israeli affairs”, saying they didn’t expect any positive changes from the post-Netanyahu government.
*) Erdogan: Turkey and US must leave troubles behind at NATO meeting
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said he and US President Joe Biden must use Monday’s meeting to move on from past troubles.
Erdogan said a wide range of issues, including a dispute over Turkey’s purchase of Russian air defence systems, will be discussed during the meeting.
Ties between the two NATO allies are strained over the US supporting YPG terrorists in Syria, harbouring FETO leader Fetullah Gulen, and removing Turkey from the F-35 jet programme.
*) New Zealand’s Arden criticises Christchurch film amid uproar
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden has criticised a planned movie about her response to the Christchurch attacks.
Ardern said the movie is poorly timed and focused on the wrong subject.
The US-backed film “They Are Us” sparked a backlash among New Zealand Muslims who slammed the project for pushing a “white saviour” narrative.
In 2019, a white supremacist gunman had killed 51 people and wounded 40 others at two mosques during Friday prayers.
And finally ...
*) Djokovic wins 19th Slam, beating Tsitsipas at French Open
Novak Djokovic has beaten Stefanos Tsitsipas in the French Open final to win his 19th Grand Slam.
Djokovic’s second trophy at Roland Garros moves him one major championship away from tying the men’s record of 20 Slams, shared by Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
Australian Open champion Djokovic’s win also puts him halfway to a calendar-year Grand Slam, something no man has accomplished since Rod Laver in 1969.
*) G7 nations expected to pledge 1B vaccine doses for world
When G7 leaders meet in Britain today, they are expected to expand global Covid vaccine manufacturing to provide at least one billion doses to the world.
Britain has committed to giving 100 million doses following the United States which says it will donate 500 million jabs to 92 countries.
The G-7 leaders have faced mounting pressure to share vaccines as inequities in supply become more pronounced.
*) Iran sends warships to Atlantic prompting US concerns
An Iranian destroyer and support vessel are now sailing in the Atlantic Ocean in a rare mission far from Iran.
Officials from the United States voiced concerns over the development as Iran’s state media stopped short of offering the vessels’ final destination.
However, US media reports, citing anonymous American officials, said the ships were bound for Venezuela.
*) Rebel missiles hit Yemen's Marib city, killing at least 8
At least eight people have been killed in the Yemeni city of Marib in what a minister said were missile and drone strikes launched by Houthis.
There was no confirmation from the Iran-aligned Houthi movement.
The US on Thursday announced sanctions on a smuggling network that generates millions of dollars for the Houthis to press them into peace talks.
*) Three Percenters militia members charged in US Capitol attack
US federal prosecutors have charged six members of right-wing militia group the Three Percenters with conspiring to attack the US Capitol on January sixth.
The indictment is the latest in a series of such charges arising from the Capitol riot led by former president Donald Trump's supporters.
The Three Percenters is a loosely organised anti-government group founded in 2008.
And finally ...
*) Microsoft putting Xbox games directly in TVs
Microsoft has said that it is working on software to let people play Xbox video games on smart TVs without needing consoles.
The news came as Microsoft and other video game heavyweights prepare to show off coming titles at an annual Electronic Entertainment Expo.
Video gameplay has surged during the pandemic, as people turned more than ever to the internet for entertainment.
Russia bans Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny’s political organisations and El Salvador becomes first country to use bitcoin in everyday life
NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, June the tenth.
*) Russian court bans opposition leader Navalny’s groups
A Moscow court has branded political organisations headed by jailed Kremlin critic Alexey Navalny as “extremist” and banned their work in Russia.
Navalny vowed to continue working to oppose the Russian authorities after the court order.
in an Instagram post from a penal colony outside Moscow, Navalny urged his supporters to change how they work after the ruling.
*) UN says 1 million children need support in Gaza
The United Nations’ top humanitarian officials have said that half of Gaza’s population, comprising one million children, are in need of critical support.
The UN and UNICEF representatives launched an appeal from Gaza for support for mental health, medical systems, schooling, and access for long-term development.
The officials were talking to the media after examining the damage caused by 11 days of Israeli aggression that killed 256 Palestinians, including 66 children.
*) Militants gun down mine-clearers in northern Afghanistan
To Afghanistan now, where militants have shot dead at least 10 mine-clearing workers.
Officials said that Taliban militants brought workers into one room and opened fire on them. The Taliban denied responsibility.
The attack came in the country’s northern province of Baghlan which has experienced heavy fighting during the past few weeks.
*) Albanian Parliament impeaches president over constitutional violations
The Albanian Parliament has impeached President Ilir Meta for violating the constitution and discharged him from the post.
A parliamentary investigation concluded that Meta violated 16 articles of the constitution during the April electoral campaign and also incited violence.
Meta denounced the investigation and impeachment attempt.
And finally ...
*) El Salvador becomes first country to use Bitcoin in everyday life
Bitcoin is to become legal tender in El Salvador, making it the first country to adopt a cryptocurrency for everyday use.
President Nayib Bukele said a majority of 62 out of 84 of the country’s lawmakers had approved the bill, which he proposed just last week.
The law would make mechanisms to help Salvadorans quickly convert payments they receive in bitcoins into dollars.
*) UN court upholds life sentence for ‘Butcher of Bosnia’ Mladic
A UN court has upheld the genocide and war crimes convictions of former Bosnian Serb military chief Ratko Mladic for the 1995 Srebrenica massacre.
Judges in The Hague ruled on the final appeal by the so-called “Butcher of Bosnia” against his 2017 conviction for the 1992-95 Bosnia war.
The verdict by five judges at the UN International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals is final and cannot be appealed any further.
Mladic was sentenced to life for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
*) Thousands hold vigil to remember Muslim victims of Canada terror attack
Several thousand mourners in Canada held a vigil to remember a Muslim family killed in a terror attack.
On Sunday, a man rammed his truck into the Afzaal family as they were out for a walk in London, Ontario, killing four.
Police confirmed they were targeted because of their religion.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed strong action, as the nation grieves the killing of four people.
*) Global sting nets hundreds of criminals tricked into using FBI-run app
A global operation involving an encrypted communication platform developed by the FBI has sparked raids and arrests around the world.
Police arrested more than 800 people worldwide in a global sting involving encrypted phones that the FBI had secretly planted in criminal organisations.
More than 32 tonnes of drugs were seized, along with 250 firearms, 55 luxury cars, and more than $148 million in cash and cryptocurrencies.
*) Israel to allow right-wing rally in occupied Jerusalem’s Old City
Israeli officials say they will allow a right-wing march in occupied Jerusalem’s Old City to go ahead next week under certain conditions.
The decision comes a day after police barred the event’s route, fearing it would ignite conflict between Israel and Palestine.
The parade celebrates Israel's occupation of East Jerusalem in 1967, which remains illegal under international law and was underway when Gaza’s 11-day siege began last month.
And finally ...
*) Macron slapped in face during visit to southeast France
French President Emmanuel Macron was slapped across the face by a man during a trip to southeast France.
Images showed Macron approaching a barrier to shake the hand of a man who then slapped the 43-old-year president, shouting “down with Macronia!”
Two people were arrested in connection with the incident.
*) Ontario Muslim family killed in anti-Islam hate crime
We start in Canada, where a man rammed his truck into a Muslim family of five, killing four members. Ontario officials confirmed the family was targeted because they were Muslim.
Ontario police identified the attacker as 20-year-old Nathaniel Veltman.
The extended family identified the deceased as Madiha Afzal, her husband Salman, their daughter Yumna, who was 15, and a 74-year-old grandmother.
Their 9-year-old son Faez is in the hospital with serious injuries.
*) Israeli police suspend right-wing march in occupied East Jerusalem
Israeli police have cancelled a pro-settler march by Jewish ultranationalists in occupied East Jerusalem after warnings it could reignite tensions that led to an 11-day bombardment of Gaza in May.
The parade celebrates Israel's occupation of East Jerusalem in 1967, which remains illegal under international law.
Prime Minister Netanyahu later asked the police to present him with a plan to ensure the contentious march can go ahead, local media reported.
*) Russia withdraws from Open Skies Treaty
President Vladimir Putin has signed a law that formalises Russia’s exit from the Open Skies arms control treaty.
The Kremlin said the US decision to withdraw from the treaty, that allows for mutual aerial observation, compelled Russia to follow suit.
The treaty was first proposed in 1955 by former US president Dwight Eisenhower to de-escalate Cold War tension.
*) US approves controversial Alzheimer's drug, first for AD in 20 years
The US has approved the first new drug for Alzheimer’s in nearly 20 years, ignoring warnings that the treatment does not help slow the disease.
The FDA approved the drug from Biogen based on “reasonably likely” benefits to Alzheimer's patients.
Biogen is expected to make billions off the drug, with shares on Monday closing up at $395.85 – their highest level in over six years.
And finally ...
*) France watchdog fines Google $267M for favouring own ads
France’s competition regulator has fined Google $267 million for favouring its own services for placing online ads at the expense of rivals.
The penalty is part of a settlement reached after three media groups accused Google in 2019.
Google later said it will test chances to its widely used online advertising services over the coming months following the French antitrust decision.
Train collision in Pakistan kills dozens and Mayweather dominates Youtuber Logan in exhibition match but no knockout
*) At least two dozen killed as passenger trains collide in Pakistan
More than 35 people in Pakistan have been killed and dozens more injured after two passenger trains collided in the south of the country.
The Millat Express derailed and the Sir Syed Express train hit it soon after in Ghotki district of Sindh province.
Villagers, rescuers and police were helping move the injured to hospitals, with 15 to 20 passengers still thought to be trapped in the wreckage of the Millat train.
*) Palestinian activist released after detention by Israeli forces
Israeli forces have released Palestinian social media activist Muna el Kurd after detaining her in a raid on her home in occupied East Jerusalem's Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood.
Her twin brother, Mohammed el Kurd, who later turned himself in at a police station after receiving a summons, was also released.
Muna and Mohammed belong to one of 27 Palestinian families who face eviction in Sheikh Jarrah.
*) Close to a dozen people killed as gunmen attack Nigerian town
Gunmen have killed at least 11 people in Nigeria, in a town in the country’s southeast.
Nigerian police said several buildings, including a traditional ruler’s palace, and vehicles were also set ablaze in the attack.
Ethnic violence remains common in Nigeria where more than 250 ethnic and linguistic groups live side by side.
*) Over 150 civilians massacred in Burkina Faso
Suspected militants have massacred at least 160 civilians in a village in Burkina Faso’s volatile north over the weekend.
The slaughter in the early hours of Saturday followed the slaying of 14 people late on Friday in the village of Tadaryat in the same region.
The government declared three days of mourning, saying the attackers killed civilians of all ages and set fire to homes and the main market.
And finally ...
*) Mayweather barely breaks sweat in exhibition with Logan Paul
Floyd Mayweather predictably dominated YouTube star Logan Paul in an eight-round exhibition fight at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Mayweather produced a typically slick performance, delighting the crowd despite the match ending without a knockout.
The fight was declared an exhibition rather than a licensed, professional bout, which meant there were no judges and the only way to triumph was to stop or knock out the opponent.
*) Hong Kong activist arrested for commemorating Tiananmen anniversary
Police in Hong Kong have arrested activist Chow Hang Tung for arranging a candlelight vigil to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the Tiananmen massacre.
Her arrest comes as Chinese authorities are quashing any event and discussion of its mass murder.
On June 4, 1989, China's army opened indiscriminate fire on student-led protesters in a crackdown that left thousands dead.
*) Israel eyes end of an era after Netanyahu foes strike deal
Israel's longest serving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he’s not leaving office without a fight.
He's lashed out at a newly formed coalition government which looks set to remove him and his Likud Party from power.
Netanyahu called on right-wing members of parliament to block the coalition's path to glory.
*) Denmark passes law to send asylum seekers abroad
Denmark has passed a law that allows for the relocation of asylum seekers to countries outside Europe.
The bill means refugees arriving on Danish soil can be sent to asylum centres in another country to have their cases reviewed there, and possibly be left there if the country is considered safe.
The UN has asked Denmark not to pursue such a policy.
*) France suspends joint military operations with Mali
France says it will suspend joint military operations with Mali, after the country's second coup in nine months.
The French Armed Forces Ministry says the decision was taken after consultation with Mali's authorities and would be reassessed in the coming days.
On Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron had threatened to pull troops out of Mali if the political instability there continued.
And finally ...
*) Supersonic passenger jet travel to make a return
America's United Airlines is bringing back supersonic passenger travel.
The company has penned a deal with aerospace company Boom Supersonic to buy 15 ultra-fast jets, which will cut transatlantic flying time by 50%.
The deal will mark the return of supersonic travel since the grounding of the Concorde in 2003.
*) Israeli opposition forms new coalition government
Israel's opposition leader, Yair Lapid, has moved closer to unseating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Likud party.
Lapid and nationalist Naftali Bennett made a deal with the United Arab List party.
This coalition could secure them enough votes in the Knesset to assume power.
*) 10,000 volunteers quit Tokyo Olympics of Covid-19 fears
Around 10,000 Tokyo Olympics volunteers have quit as Japan battles a fourth wave of Covid-19.
Organisers are battling persistent doubts over the Games with just 50 days to go until the opening ceremony.
Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto ruled out a further postponement and said a cancellation will only happen if most foreign athletes do not attend.
*) Brazilians bang pots in protest as another 2,500 die of virus
Pot-banging protests erupted across several cities in Brazil as the president addressed the nation.
This comes just days after protestors took to the streets across the country over Jair Bolsonaro's failure to handle the pandemic.
On Wednesday alone, almost 100,000 Brazilians tested positive for Covid-19 and over 2,500 died.
*) WHO gives Sinovac greenlight
The World Health Organization has approved China's Sinovac Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use listing.
A WHO emergency listing is a signal to national regulators of a product’s safety and efficacy and will allow the Sinovac shot to be included in COVAX, the global programme providing vaccines for poor countries.
The WHO's independent panel of experts recommended Sinovac's vaccine for adults over the age of 18 only.
And finally ...
*) NASA announces two new robotic missions to Venus
NASA has announced plans to launch two new scientific missions to Venus between 2028 and 2030.
It aims to study the atmosphere and map the Earth's closest planetary neighbour.
The project could provide answers on whether Venus is capable of hosting microbial life.
*) Biden: 'Hell was unleashed' in 1921 Tulsa massacre
Joe Biden has become the first sitting US president to visit the site in Tulsa, Oklahoma where hundreds of Black Americans were massacred by a white mob in 1921.
In an emotional speech, Biden said the legacy of racist violence and white supremacy still resonates.
Biden said the deadly January 6 attack on the US Capitol and efforts by a number of states to restrict voting were a continuation of the same problem.
*) India's frontline doctors face exhaustion, fear and death
Low pay, long shifts, and severe staff shortages has left many doctors on the frontlines of India's brutal pandemic surge near breaking point.
India’s Medical Association said more than 1,200 doctors died of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic, including some 500 in the last two months.
The pandemic has exposed structural weaknesses in India's healthcare system, particularly in the ill-equipped state hospitals.
*) AU suspends Mali after military coup, threatens sanctions
The African Union has suspended Mali's membership in response to last week's military coup and threatened sanctions if a civilian government is not restored.
The military arrested both interim president and prime minister last week and pressured them to resign.
Army colonel Assimi Goita who led the August coup and last week's revolt, was declared president on Friday.
*) NATO chief says exit from Afghanistan going well as deadly attacks continue
NATO's Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has announced that the military pullout from Afghanistan is going well.
His statement avoided references to the latest series of attacks that claimed 10 lives and plunged the country's capital Kabul into darkness.
NATO has helped provide security in Afghanistan for almost two decades but now believes the government is strong enough to stand on its own in the conflict-torn country.
And finally ...
*) Chinese man infected with rare bird flu strain
A 41-year-old man in China's Jiangsu province has been confirmed as the first human infected with a rare strain of bird flu known as H10N3.
Many different strains of bird flu are present in China and some sporadically infect people, usually those working with poultry.
There is no indication that H10N3 can spread easily in humans.
*) EU rights body tells Austria to withdraw controversial 'Islam map'
The Council of Europe is demanding that Austria remove a controversial so-called ‘Islam map’.
The online interactive map shows the locations of more than 600 mosques, Islamic associations, officials and their possible links aboard, which religious groups say is stigmatising Muslims there.
Local Muslim groups are preparing to sue the government if the controversial website is not immediately shut down.
*) IAEA concerned over undeclared nuclear sites in Iran
The UN nuclear watchdog says Iran has failed to explain the discovery of uranium particles at three sites across the country.
IAEA has also been banned by Iran from accessing satellite surveillance images from the country’s nuclear sites.
The situation could derail talks in Vienna aimed at reviving a 2015 nuclear accord between Iran and other world powers.
*) School's out for Myanmar students defying junta threats
Schools in Myanmar have reopened for the first time since the military seized power in a February coup.
However, teachers and students are set to defy the junta's call for full classrooms in a show of resistance. Four months of turmoil have followed coup, with over 800 people killed by security forces, and nationwide strikes crippling the economy.
*) Israel's Debkafile: UAE building air base on volcanic island off Yemen
The UAE is building a new air base on a volcanic island off Yemen that sits in one of the world's most crucial maritime chokepoints.
The report from an Israeli military intelligence website claims the base on Mayun Island will give UAE means to control oil tanker and commercial shipping through the Red Sea's southern chokepoint and up to the Suez Canal.
While no country has officially claimed the base, Yemeni officials confirmed that the UAE is behind the massive construction.
And finally ...
*) Pakistan TV host suspended for slamming military’s role in media censorship
Popular Pakistani TV host Hamid Mir was taken off air and suspended from Geo News for criticising the country’s military’s role in media censorship.
Mir is the latest target of an alleged military-backed media crackdown that started in the run-up to the 2018 election that brought PM Imran Khan to power.
Critics say the crackdown is part of a campaign to coerce Khan's opposition and silence critical voices in the media to prop him up as the military's protege.
Both the military and Khan deny the accusations.
*) Israel inches closer to new coalition government
Palestine Liberation Organisation say a new extremist right-wing Israeli government will only bring an escalation of violence against Palestinians.
It comes in response to far right Israeli nationalist Naftali Bennett helping centrist Yair Lapid form a new coalition which will push Benjamin Netenyahu out.
The PLO says crimes against Palestinians will continue with the new coalition and the blood of more innocent civilians will be on the hands of these right-wing extremists.
*) ECOWAS suspends Mali's membership after coup
The West African regional bloc ECOWAS has suspended Mali's membership in response to last week's coup.
West African leaders met for talks to resolve the political impasse in the country that saw President Ibrahim Boubacar ousted by the military.
The suspension from ECOWAS means the struggling country will not be able to benefit from trade with its neighbours.
*) Kidnappers abduct students from school in Nigeria
An armed gang has abducted scores of students from a school in northern Nigeria.
The kidnapping comes a day after 14 students from a university in the country’s northwest were freed after 40 days in captivity.
Armed groups are blamed for a series of recent raids on schools, and the abduction of more than 700 students since December.
*) Canterbury braces for flooding as heavy rain continues
New Zealand has declared a state of emergency in Canterbury as heavy rains put thousands of homes at risk of being flooded.
Hundreds of residents living along the Ashburton River have been evacuated.
Forecasters say the heavy downpour is a once in a 100 year event.
And finally ...
*) Copa America faces cancellation
South America's biggest football tournament, the Copa America, could be cancelled this year after it was left without a host country.
The tournament was scheduled to be played in both Colombia and Argentina between June 13 and July 10.
Colombia was dropped as co-host because of political unrest and Argentina because of a surge in Covid-19 cases.
With two weeks to go before kick-off, tournament organisers are still struggling to find a venue.
*)UN launches investigation into possible Israel, Hamas war crimes
The United Nations Human Rights Council has agreed to launch an international investigation into alleged crimes committed during Israel's 11-day assault on Gaza.
The independent investigation will have a broad mandate to look into alleged violations by all parties, including Hamas, in Gaza, occupied West Bank and Israel.
While Hamas welcomed the investigation, Israel rejected the resolution adopted by the Geneva forum and said it would not cooperate.
*) Macron asks Rwanda to forgive France but denies complicity in genocide
French President Emmanuel Macron has admitted to France's role in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda without formally apologising.
In a speech at Kigali Genocide Memorial in Rwanda, Macron said, "I have come to recognise our responsibilities."
Macron went on to say that France "was not complicit" in the genocide in which 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed.
*)UN aviation body to probe Belarus plane grounding
The United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organization will investigate the forced grounding of a Ryanair passenger plane in Belarus.
The aviation authority will produce an interim report by June 25 but regardless of the outcome, there is little scope to punish member states other than by suspending voting rights.
The UN probe will be a fact-finding investigation designed mainly to determine whether Belarus breached international aviation rules.
*) Hong King's Jimmy Lai, 7 others handed new jail terms over protest
Jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai is among eight activists who were handed new prison sentences over anti-China rallies.
The latest sentences were given over attending protests on the 70th anniversary of the founding of modern China.
Lai, who is 73, was given a 14-month sentence after pleading guilty to organising and participating in an unlawful assembly. He must now serve 20 months in several combined sentences.
And finally ...
*) Stephen Hawking's office and archive to get
From seminal papers on theoretical physics and scripts for "The Simpsons", the work of British scientist Stephen Hawking is going to be preserved.
Hawking, who gained international acclaim for his work on black holes, died in 2018 aged 76 after spending a lifetime probing the origins of the universe.
His vast archive of scientific and personal papers will go to the University Library in Cambridge, while the entire contents of his office, including his wheelchair, will be passed to the Science Museum Group.
*) Employee shoots, kills 8 at California rail yard
An employee opened fire at a California rail yard, killing eight people before taking his own life, authorities have said.
The shooting took place in two buildings that are part of a light rail facility for the Valley Transportation Authority.
A man wounded in the attack was in critical condition at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, a spokesperson said.
*) Mali’s transitional president resigns while in detention
Mali's interim president and prime minister have both resigned two days after they were arrested by the military.
President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane were taken to a military base outside the capital after a Cabinet reshuffle.
The intervention led by Colonel Assimi Goita has jeopardised Mali's transition back to democracy after a coup in August overthrew former President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.
*) Anti-election rallies in Syria as Assad seeks mandate
Thousands have hit the streets of Syria's Idlib in a boisterous rally against Wednesday's presidential elections.
Voting in Syrian regime-held areas of the war-torn country is set to give leader Bashar al Assad a fourth seven-year term and has been dismissed as a sham by Turkey, the Syrian opposition and Western countries.
Crowds in Idlib chanted against Assad, reviving slogans used in the early days of the uprising against him.
*) More than 150 feared dead in Nigeria boat accident
More than 150 people are feared drowned in northwest Nigeria after an overloaded boat sank in the Niger River.
The boat was travelling between central Niger state and Wara in northwest Kebbi state when it sank, National Inland Waterways Authority local manager Yusuf Birma told reporters.
President Muhammadu Buhari said the accident was "devastating" and offered his condolences to families.
And finally ...
*) Amazon to buy MGM, studio behind James Bond and 'Shark Tank'
Online shopping giant Amazon is buying MGM with the hopes of filling its video streaming service with more stuff to watch.
Amazon is paying $8.45 billion for MGM, making it the company's second-largest acquisition after buying grocer Whole Foods for nearly $14 billion in 2017.
The deal is the latest in the media industry that's aimed at boosting streaming services to compete against Netflix and Disney+.
*) George Floyd’s family urges police reform on anniversary of murder
The family of George Floyd has appealed for sweeping police reform on the anniversary of the Black man's death who was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer.
US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris hosted several of Floyd's relatives in the Oval Office after the family spoke to top lawmakers hoping for progress on police reform.
The legislation being considered to increase police accountability would be named after Floyd.
*) New grand jury seated for next stage of Trump investigation
Manhattan's district attorney has convened a grand jury that is expected to decide whether to indict former US president Donald Trump over possible crimes by him or by his company.
Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance has been investigating Trump’s pre-presidency business dealings for more than two years.
Vance’s office has said in court filings it was investigating criminal conduct at the Trump Organization, including tax and insurance fraud and falsification of business records.
*) Indian Covid-19 variant found in at least 53 territories – WHO
The coronavirus variant first detected in India has now been officially recorded in 53 territories, a World Health Organization report showed.
Additionally, the WHO received information from unofficial sources that the B.1.617 variant has been found in seven other countries, taking the total to 60.
The report said B.1.617 had shown increased transmissibility, while disease severity and risk of infection were under investigation.
*) Blinken announces US aid to Gaza, pledges to reopen Jerusalem consulate
Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged on an Israel-Palestine trip that the US will provide aid to help rebuild Gaza, with the clause that its Hamas government be excluded from the process.
Blinken said the US will reopen its Jerusalem consulate that served as its diplomatic channel to Palestinians.
The US pledged $75 million in development aid, over $5 million in immediate disaster relief for Gaza and $32 million to the UN Palestinian aid agency based there.
And finally ...
*) A year later, Krasinski's 'Quiet Place' ready to make noise
John Krasinski, whose “A Quiet Place Part II” is one of the biggest studio releases to open exclusively in cinemas this year, recently returned to the movies himself.
Krasinski screened the film for his in-laws in London, and the experience of being back in a cinema was unexpectedly moving.
The wait for “A Quiet Place Part II” has been as long as the pandemic. Last March, its release was imminent just as Covid-19 shut down US theatres.
*) Israel launches crackdown on Palestinians
Israel has launched a crackdown against hundreds of Palestinians who participated in recent protests against Israeli aggression, with a prison rights group saying more arrests are expected in coming days.
At least 1,550 Palestinians have so far been arrested over the past two weeks in Israel and the occupied West Bank.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is heading for the Middle East to meet with Israeli and Palestinian officials, among other regional leaders, in a bid to bolster calm in the region.
*) Sanctions imposed on Belarus for diverting plane
International condemnation of Belarus is growing, after authorities forced a passenger jet to land in Minsk, and arrested a journalist on board.
Many are calling it state piracy.
The EU has issued sanctions on Minsk, including banning Belarusian airlines from using EU airspace.
*) Mali junta detains senior state officials
Mali's interim president and other top officials have been arrested by the junta after a government reshuffle excluded some military officers.
Senior state officials have reportedly been detained at a junta base outside the capital Bamako.
The interim government was brought to power by a military coup in August last year.
*) Syrian tribes reject upcoming Assad-mandated elections
Tribes in northern Syria have rejected the upcoming presidential election set to be held in areas controlled by the Assad regime.
They say the elections are illegitimate, and violate the rights of the Syrian people to freely elect a government.
It's the first poll to be held since 2014, and is widely expected to keep Assad in power for a fourth term.
And finally ...
*) US Open line judges to be replaced by Hawk-Eye Live
Line judges will no longer feature at the US Open after the USTA will implement electronic line calling on all courts at the year's final Grand Slam.
Hawk-Eye electronic technology was also used at last year's US Open, apart from the Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong stadiums.
The tech was also deployed at the Australian Open, a move largely welcomed by players.
*) Ceasefire between Hamas and Israel still holding
A ceasefire between Hamas and Israel is holding for a fourth day as mediators spoke to all sides about extending the period of calm.
The 11-day brutal Israeli bombing campaign on the enclave killed at least 250 civilians and left thousands homeless.
The UN says 1,000 homes were destroyed and other crucial infrastructure badly damaged, leaving the enclave critically short on food and medical supplies.
*) Global outrage as Belarus diverts flight to arrest opposition activist
Belarus has forced a passenger plane carrying a wanted opposition activist to divert and land in its capital.
Dissident journalist Roman Protasevich was arrested after a Ryanair flight he was on was pulled from its Athens-to-Vilnius route by a Belarusian fighter jet and forced to land in Minsk.
The move provoked a furious outcry from world leaders who described it as an act of state terrorism ahead of an EU summit on Monday.
*) Covid-19 wave hits Japan's Osaka hard
Doctors in Japan's Osaka say the healthcare system is in danger of collapsing amid a huge new wave of coronavirus cases.
Hospitals are running out of beds, ventilators and other equipment.
Staff too are in jeopardy as only half of Japan's healthcare professionals have been vaccinated so far.
*) Thousands evacuated after Goma volcano erupts
Residents of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo are returning to their city a day after a volcano erupted.
At least 15 died and thousands fled when lava reached the city's outskirts and engulfed homes.
Mount Nyiragongo erupted on Saturday night and despite the presence of a scientific monitoring station, no advance warning was given to residents.
And finally ...
*) Shamed BBC journalist apologises over Diana interview
Martin Bashir, the BBC journalist who tricked Princess Diana into giving an explosive interview, has apologised to Princes William and Harry, but said claims linking his actions to her death were unreasonable.
A recent report found Bashir commissioned fake bank documents to lure the princess into giving an interview in 1995.
Prince William said the interview made a major contribution to her fear, paranoia and isolation during her final years.
*) Israel-Palestinian ceasefire comes into force
A ceasefire has been brokered between Israel and Hamas. The truce came into force early on Friday after 11 days of deadly fighting that pounded the besieged Palestinian enclave.
Celebrations were heard on Gaza's streets in the minutes after the truce began as cars honked their horns and some guns were fired in the air.
The ceasefire appeared to be holding on Friday morning.
*) Biden signs bill to counter spike in anti-Asian hate crimes
US President Joe Biden has signed the Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act to curtail a dramatic rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
The legislation passed the Senate by a vote of 94-1 in April and the House of Representatives by 364-62 earlier this month.
Reports of violence against Asian Americans spiked since the start of the pandemic last year, a rise that activists and police say was fed by comments from former president Donald Trump.
*) Argentina returns to strict Covid-19 lockdown
Argentina's President Alberto Fernandez announced a strict countrywide lockdown for the first time this year.
The announcement came after more than 35,000 coronavirus infections were reported in Argentina for the third consecutive day and the death toll skyrocketed.
The measures will last from Saturday until May 31 but workers of essential activities will be exempted.
*) CNN: Trump Justice Department seized reporter phone records
The Justice Department under the Trump administration secretly obtained the 2017 phone records of a CNN correspondent, the network has said.
The revelation comes two weeks after The Washington Post disclosed that the Justice Department seized phone records of three of its journalists who covered the Russia investigation.
CNN said Justice informed Pentagon correspondent Barbara Starr in a May 13 letter that it had obtained phone and email records.
And finally ...
*) Microsoft announces retirement of Internet Explorer
Microsoft is retiring Internet Explorer, the browser it created more than 25 years ago, now largely abandoned for Google's Chrome or Apple's Safari.
"We are announcing that the future of Internet Explorer on Windows 10 is Microsoft Edge," the company said in a blog post on Wednesday, referring to its other browser.
Microsoft said that as of June 15, 2022, Internet Explorer will be retired and no longer be supported by the company.
*) Hamas official predicts ceasefire soon but Israel-Gaza fight goes on
A senior Hamas official predicted a ceasefire within days even as Israeli warplanes carried out new air strikes and Palestinians fired more rockets.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rebuffed US President Joe Biden's call for a "de-escalation" on the path to a ceasefire.
At least 228 Palestinians have been killed since Israel started its relentless bombardment of Gaza on May 10, Palestinian health officials say.
*) House backs commission on January 6 Capitol riot
The US House of Representatives has voted to create an independent commission on the January 6 insurrection at the US Capitol.
Democrats say an independent investigation is crucial to uncover what happened on the day Trump supporters smashed into the Capitol to try and overturn President Joe Biden's victory.
The commission would make recommendations by the end of the year for securing the Capitol and preventing another insurrection.
*) US: Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine can be stored in refrigerator for a month
The US Food and Drug Administration has authorised storage of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine at standard freezer temperatures for up to one month.
The change is especially important for global and remote US facilities that have poor transport and storage infrastructure.
In February, the US health agency approved the storage and transportation of the vaccine at standard freezer temperatures for up to two weeks instead of ultra-cold conditions.
*) Gaza's health system buckling under repeated wars, blockade
Gaza’s already feeble health system is being brought to its knees by the fourth war in just over a decade.
Hospitals have been overwhelmed with waves of dead and wounded from Israel’s bombardment as vital medicines are rapidly running out in the tiny enclave.
Two of Gaza’s most prominent doctors were killed while its only virus testing lab was damaged by an air strike and forced to relocate with fewer supplies.
And finally ...
*) Bitcoin struggles for footing on worries over China, leverage
Bitcoin and other digital assets in Asia are recovering marginally from four-month lows but remain weighed down by concerns over tighter regulation in China.
Bitcoin, the biggest and most popular cryptocurrency, rose slightly to $38,072 (thirty-eight thousand and seventy-two dollars) after plunging 14% to its lowest since late January.
Bitcoin had been under pressure for almost a week after a series of tweets from carmaker Tesla's chief Elon Musk, chiefly his reversal on Tesla accepting bitcoin as payment.
*) Israeli troops attack Palestinian protesters
At least four people have been killed and 160 others injured as Palestinians staged protests across the occupied West Bank against Israel’s illegal occupation.
The IDF incited violence by using tear gas and stun grenades to disperse peaceful protests.
People had gathered at multiple flash points to show their anger against Israel's illegal occupation of Palestinian territories and its bombardment of Gaza.
*) Israel’s bombardment of Gaza continues
Meanwhile, Israel continues with its land, sea and aerial assault on Gaza for a 10th day.
The attacks in the region since last Monday have killed at least 220 Palestinians and left tens of thousands homeless.
The UN says 450 buildings have been destroyed, including 40 schools, six hospitals, nine primary-care health centres and Gaza’s only Covid-19 testing lab.
*) India halts vaccine exports of domestic virus crisis
India says it will resume major exports of Covid-19 vaccines in October.
It's diverting the shots for domestic use as it struggles to deal with a devastating outbreak crisis.
The total number of infections has surged past 25 million, and the death toll is more than a quarter of a million.
*) Activists urge athletes to boycott Beijing Games
Human rights activists are calling for athletes to boycott next year's Winter Olympics in China.
Separate discussions around the world are taking place between the Olympic Committee, governments, NGOs and sport bodies to highlight China's violation of human rights in Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region.
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi supported the move by calling for a diplomatic boycott of the Games.
And finally ...
*) Google, Samsung team up to challenge Apple
Google and Samsung are teaming up on a joint software platform for smartwatches and other wearables to challenge market leader Apple.
The combination of Google's Wear with Samsung's Tizen will create a large ecosystem allowing all device markets to use the platform.
The move was announced at Google's developer conference in California.
*) Israel continues its relentless bombardment of Gaza
Israeli missiles and artillary shells continue raining down on Palestinian civilians in Gaza for a ninth consecutive day.
Since the latest Israeli attacks began last Monday, over 200 Palestinians have been killed, including 61 children.
Despite a global outcry and international pressure against Israel's brutal aggression in the region, it does not seem to be slowing down.
Gaza is now facing critical shortages of food, medical supplies and fuel, with the UN and other NGOs asking for urgent support to provide much needed aid.
*) Biden calls for ceasefire in Palestine
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has expressed his support for a ceasefire during a phone call with Israel's PM.
Biden has so far resisted joining other world leaders and some members of his own Democratic party, in calling for an immediate truce in the fighting.
Ironically, Biden's administration on Monday also approved the potential sale of $735 million worth of precision-guided weapons to Israel.
*) Monster Cyclone Tauktae hammers India's west coast
Over 200,000 people have been evacuated in India's state of Gujarat as tropical Cyclone Tauktae makes landfall.
The storm has already battered the country's western coastline, killing at least 16 people.
The storm is set to be the worst in the state in over 20 years.
*) Record 5,000 migrants illegally cross into Spanish island via Morocco
At least 5,000 migrants, about 1,000 of them minors, illegally crossed into Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco.
Spain says the scale of the record influx, which comes at a time of high tension between Madrid and Rabat, is unprecedented and could yet rise.
The migrants reached the enclave by swimming or walking at low tide from beaches in neighbouring Morocco a few kilometres to the south.
And finally ...
*) Ariana Grande ties the knot
Pop star Ariana Grande married her real estate agent fiance Dalton Gomez at her home in Los Angeles.
She announced her engagement to Gomez in a December Instagram post.
The couple were seen for the first time together in public in a charity music video during the coronavirus lockdown.
*) Israel pounds Gaza as death toll soars to 200
Israel has bombarded Gaza with artillery and air strikes but stopped short of a ground offensive in the conflict.
Israeli aggression has claimed almost 200 Palestinian lives, including at least 60 children, and has wounded over 1,200 people.
Israel's attacks on Gaza follow weeks of violence against Palestinians amid spiking tensions in occupied East Jerusalem during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.
*) Calls for renewed peace talks as ceasefire ends in Afghanistan
A three-day ceasefire has ended in Afghanistan amid calls for renewed peace talks between the government and the Taliban.
The Taliban says negotiating teams from both sides met briefly on Saturday in Doha and renewed their commitment to finding a peaceful end to the war.
The US has been pressing for accelerated talks as it withdraws the last of its 2,500 to 3,500 soldiers.
*) UNICEF urges richer countries to fill Covax vaccine supplies
UNICEF says the world's seven richest countries and the EU could help close the world's vaccine gap by sharing just 20 percent of their June, July and August stocks with the Covax scheme for poorer nations.
The UN agency estimates a global supply shortfall of 140 million doses by the end of May and about 190 million by the end of June.
The disruption in supply was caused by India after it curbed exports of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which were pledged to Covax, to be used by the country as it battles the deadliest wave in the world.
*) Poll: Over 80% of Japanese oppose Olympics this year
A new poll shows that most of Japan's population is opposed to their country hosting the Olympics this year.
The latest survey comes after Japan expanded a coronavirus state of emergency on Friday as the nation battles a fourth wave.
The weekend survey found 43 percent of people want the Games cancelled, and 40 percent want a further postponement.
The games are scheduled to start in under 10-weeks.
And finally ...
*) Barcelona win women's Champions League for first time
Barcelona became the first Spanish side to win the women's Champions League with a stunning performance to thrash Chelsea 4-0 in Sweden on Sunday.
In a ruthless offensive display, Barcelona's attackers sliced through Chelsea's defence to build a 4-0 first-half lead.
During their campaign, Barcelona eliminated Man City in the quarters and PSG in the semis.
*) Israel pounds Gaza as death toll soars past 100
Israel has bombarded Gaza with artillery and air strikes but stopped short of a ground offensive in the conflict.
Israeli aggression has claimed more than 100 Palestinian lives, including 31 children, and wounded 621 people.
In another potential escalation, at least three rockets were fired from southern Lebanon toward Israel overnight.
Israel's attacks on Gaza follow weeks of violence against Palestinians amid spiking tensions in occupied East Jerusalem during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.
*) Muslims celebrate Eid al Fitr amid coronavirus measures
Eid al Fitr, the holiday marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is being celebrated worldwide under the shadow of the coronavirus.
Traditionally, Eid is a three-day celebration marked by large family festivities and mass prayers.
But this year many could only celebrate at home with immediate family. Special prayers were held in a limited manner while adhering to anti-virus measures.
*) India's Covid cases above 24 million as mutant spreads across globe
The number of infections in India climbed above 24 million amid reports that the highly transmissible mutant first detected in the country was spreading across the globe.
The Indian B.1.617 variant of the virus has been found in cases in eight countries of the Americas, including Canada and the US.
According to health ministry data, India recorded 4,000 deaths and 343,144 infections in the last 24 hours.
*) Two climbers die of exhaustion on Mount Everest descent
Two climbers from the US and Switzerland have died on Mount Everest, the first fatalities of this year's season, expedition organisers in Nepal have said.
On average around five climbers die every year on the world's highest peak.
But in recent seasons, Everest has seen a surge in the number of climbers, leading to overcrowding that has been blamed for multiple deaths.
And finally ...
*) 'Friends' reunion to air May 27, with slew of celebrity guests
The long-awaited "Friends" cast reunion will be broadcast on May 27 and will feature a slew of celebrity guests including Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, and K-Pop band BTS.
"Friends: The Reunion" was originally supposed to have been filmed more than a year ago but was repeatedly delayed by the coronavirus.
"Friends" was one of the most popular TV shows of the 1990s and found new life on streaming platforms.
*) Death toll rises to 67 from Israeli attacks against Palestinians
Israeli forces continue to bomb the Gaza enclave, killing at least 67 people, including 17 children, since the start of recent hostilities.
Israel's attacks on Gaza follow weeks of violence during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan against Palestinians in occupied East Jerusalem.
One of the major catalysts behind Palestinian protests in recent weeks were the threatened expulsions in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of occupied East Jerusalem, which Israeli settlers are trying to take over via a court case.
*) Afghan forces launch operation to recapture Taliban-held district
Afghan security forces have mounted an operation to recapture a key district that the Taliban seized just before a three-day ceasefire.
Taliban insurgents killed and captured Afghan soldiers, forcing troops to retreat from Nerkh district, which is close to the capital Kabul.
Violence has intensified in the country since Washington missed a May 1 deadline, agreed with the Taliban last year, to withdraw all of its troops.
*) Largest US fuel pipeline begins reopening after cyber attack
US largest fuel pipeline has restarted operations days after it was forced to shut down by a gang of hackers.
The disruption of Colonial Pipeline caused panic-buying and long lines at petrol stations in the Southeast, draining supplies at thousands of stations.
Colonial Pipeline said that it would take several days for deliveries to return to normal
*) Iran’s former president Ahmadinejad to run again in June election
Iran's former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has registered to run again for the presidency.
President from 2005 to 2013, Ahmadinejad had to stand down at the end of two consecutive terms as per Iran's constitution.
Ahmadinejad's tenure was marked by fiery rhetoric against Israel and deep tensions with the West, most notably over Iran's nuclear programme.
And finally ...
*) Nadal opens bid for 10th Italian Title with victory over Sinner
Rafael Nadal has opened his attempt to win a 10th Italian Open title with a straight-sets victory over teenager Jannik Sinner to advance to the third round.
Nadal won through 7-5, 6-4 in just over two hours to bring his record to 16-1 in his opening matches in Foro Italico.
The 20-time Grand Slam winner next plays 13th seeder Canadian Denis Shapovalov for a place in the quarter-final.
*) Israel carries out hundreds of air strikes in Gaza, killing at least 35
The death toll has risen to 35 in Gaza as air strikes by Israel leave a trail of destruction in the blockaded Palestinian territory.
Those killed include 12 children and two women.
Violence has flared once again at Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem where Israeli forces fired rubber bullets on Palestinians gathering after morning prayers.
Tensions soared last week as Israeli police used rubber bullets and stun grenades against Palestinians congregating at the Mosque during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
*) Several children killed in school shooting in Russia’s Kazan
A gunman has attacked a school in Kazan, the capital of Russia’s republic of Tatarstan, killing nine people and leaving 21 others wounded.
Of the dead, seven were schoolchildren. Officials said the attacker, identified as a 19-year-old, was arrested.
While school shootings are relatively rare in Russia, there have been several violent attacks on schools in recent years, mostly carried out by students.
*) Macron party head warns candidate in headscarf won't get party support
French President Emmanuel Macron's party head has threatened to withdraw support for a candidate in upcoming regional elections after she was pictured with a headscarf.
Stanislas Guerini said candidate Sara Zemmahi "wearing ostentatious religious symbols on a campaign document is not compatible with the values of LREM".
A proposal by French senators might soon deny the freedom for women to wear hijab in public spaces.
*) Death toll from Colombia protests climbs to 42
At least 42 Colombians have been killed in protests against the government of President Ivan Duque since April 28.
The protesters, initially against proposed tax reforms, are now demanding the government take action to tackle poverty, police violence and inequalities.
The tax reform bill has since been withdrawn,but the protests have continued despite a forceful response by police.
And finally ...
*) Manchester City confirmed Premier League champions again
Manchester City have become Premier League champions after Manchester United crashed to a 2-1 defeat against Leicester.
Pep Guardiola's side are 10 points clear of second-placed United and have wrapped up the title with three games to spare.
It is the third time Blue Skies manager Pep Guardiola has won the Premier League title with the City.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, May 11th:
*) Israel kills 24 Palestinians in Gaza as resistance announces operations
Israeli strikes have killed at least 24 Palestinians, including nine children, in Gaza after Israel’s raid on Al Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem.
Palestinian resistance factions in Gaza announced Operation Al Quds Sword in response to Israeli violence at Al Aqsa compound, the third holiest site of Islam and the holiest site of Judaism.
More than 700 people have been wounded in raids by Israeli forces in Jerusalem and across the occupied West Bank in the past 24 hours.
*) UN finds evidence of Daesh genocide against Yazidis
A UN team investigating atrocities in Iraq has said it found “clear and compelling evidence” that Daesh committed genocide against the Yazidi minority in 2014.
Special Adviser Karim Khan told the UN Security Council that the militant group successfully developed chemical weapons and used mustard gas.
The team also reported war crimes against predominantly Shia unarmed cadets and personnel from Tikrit Air Academy who were captured by the group in June 2014.
*) Dozens dead after boat capsizes in Nigeria
At least 30 people drowned in Nigeria after an overloaded boat capsized in Tijana village of Munya district.
The boat, carrying 100 local traders, split in two after smashing into a stump during high winds on its return from a market on Saturday.
Sixty-five passengers have been rescued with the help of local divers.
*) Bodies of suspected Covid-19 victims found in Indian river
More than 150 bodies suspected to be Covid-19 patients who died of the virus have been found dumped in India's northern river Ganges.
The bodies, found by horrified residents, were floating in the river and some dumped on the banks in northern Bihar state, according to media reports.
India's total Covid-19 caseload now stands at over 22.6 million, with more than 246,000 deaths.
And finally ...
*) 40th death anniversary of reggae legend Bob Marley
Today marks the 40th death anniversary of reggae legend Bob Marley. He died of cancer in 1981.
The year 2021 also marked the death of the last surviving member of the original Wailers, Bunny.
The group in the 1960s helped transform reggae, with its heavy bass lines and drums, into a global phenomenon with untold impact.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, May 10th:
*) Israel vows to restore calm as top court postpones hearing on forceful evictions
Hundreds of Palestinians were injured after Israeli security forces stormed the Al Aqsa mosque on the fourth day of heightened tensions, medics say.
Police were seen firing gunshots and grenades at Palestinians hours before a planned march by hardline Israeli nationalists to commemorate Israel’s occupation of the city.
Recent tensions were sparked by planned evictions of Palestinians from the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood in East Jerusalem.
*) Families bury victims of Afghan school blast
Relatives of those killed in a horrific bombing outside a girls’ school in the Afghan capital have buried their loved ones.
The explosion rocked the west Kabul district of Dasht-e-Barchi on Saturday as residents were out shopping ahead of next week's Eid al Fitr.
Officials said the death toll from the bomb attack has risen to 68 as doctors struggle to provide medical care for 165 injured victims.
*) Myanmar’s Suu Kyi set to appear in court
Deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi is set to appear in court two days after the military junta declared opposition politicians as terrorists.
Over the weekend, Myanmar's junta labelled a shadow government of lawmakers and politicians ousted in a February coup as terrorist groups.
The government of national unity was established by elected legislators who were barred from taking their seats when the military seized power.
*) Cyberattack on US pipeline is linked to criminal gang
A cyberextortion attempt that has forced the shutdown of a vital US pipeline was carried out by a criminal gang known as DarkSide.
Top US fuel pipeline operator Colonial Pipeline shut its entire network after a cyber attack on Friday that involved ransomware.
The incident, one of the most disruptive digital ransom operations ever reported, drew attention to how vulnerable US energy infrastructure is to hackers.
And finally ...
*) Escaped big cat sparks fear in China
A leopard is at large in eastern China after escaping from a safari park with two fellow big cats.
Residents of the city of Hangzhou first reported seeing a leopard on the loose on Friday.
The safari park only acknowledged the escapes after the news went viral.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, May the 7th:
*) Germany opposes US-backed proposal to waive patents on Covid-19 jabs
The EU says it is willing to discuss a US-backed proposal to waive patent rights for Covid-19 vaccines.
But the bloc's largest economy, Germany, says while it supports the goal of a worldwide supply of vaccines, the main factors in mass production are capacity and quality control, not patents.
US President Joe Biden’s administration announced on Wednesday support for a global waiver on intellectual property protection for vaccines to accelerate efforts to stop the pandemic.
*) India’s coronavirus cases hit another daily record
India has reported yet another record rise in new coronavirus cases with over 414,000 infections. Over 3,900 people died of the disease in the last 24 hours.
The South Asian nation's cases tally now stands at 21.4 million, second only to the United States while its total fatalities have soared past 230,000.
Demand for medical oxygen has increased, with lockdowns reinstated in several cities and states.
*) Pressure mounts on Israel to abandon settlement expansion plans
Tensions are high in occupied East Jerusalem, where Palestinians are trying to prevent people from being evicted from their homes.
At least 13 Palestinian families are facing eviction after an order by an Israeli court, which Palestinians fear is part of an ongoing effort by settlers to illegally take their homes.
In a joint statement, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK have urged Israel to reverse its decision to advance settlement construction in the Har Homa E area.
*) Colombia calls for dialogue with protest leaders
Colombia's government has invited protest leaders to a dialogue to calm tensions following over a week of deadly protests against President Ivan Duque.
Thousands of Colombians have taken to the streets to express anger over the government's policies on health, education and inequality.
At least 24 people have died in clashes between protesters and security forces while hundreds more have been injured.
And finally ...
*) Golden Globes voters approve changes on diversity, ethics after racism row
The Hollywood Foreign Press Association that awards the Golden Globes has voted for sweeping reforms after Hollywood slammed it for its poor record on diversity.
Association approved a package of reforms, including boosting membership by 50 percent, adding more Black journalists and lifting limits on who gets admitted.
The Golden Globes are second in importance only to the Oscars in Hollywood's film award season.
*) Israel's Yair Lapid gets mandate to form new government
Israel's president has chosen Yair Lapid, a centrist politician and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strongest rival, to try to form a new government.
While Lapid faces a difficult task, he now has the chance to make history by ending the reign of Netanyahu, who is Israel’s longest-serving prime minister.
The parliamentary elections held on March the 23 ended in deadlock for the fourth time in the past two years.
*) India reports record Covid-19 cases, deaths
India has reported more than 400,000 coronavirus infections over the last 24 hours, while deaths rose by a record 3,980.
The South Asian nation's cases tally has surged past 21 million, second only to the United State. India’s death toll now stands at over 230,000.
India’s Supreme Court has ordered the government to submit a plan to meet New Delhi hospitals’ oxygen needs as the city’s health system buckles under Covid surge.
*) Hong Kong dissident Joshua Wong jailed for Tiananmen protest
Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong has been handed an additional 10-month sentence after he pleaded guilty to taking part in the Tiananmen protest last year.
The annual vigil marking Beijing's deadly 1989 crackdown of protests was banned for the first time in Hong Kong last year.
Wong is already serving a 13-and-a-half-month jail sentence for attending a protest during the 2019 unrest.
*) G7 hits out at China, Russia over rights abuses after London talks
G7 foreign ministers have criticised both China and Russia, casting the Kremlin as malicious and Beijing as a bully at their summit held in London.
There was, however, little concrete action mentioned in the communique that would worry either Chinese President Xi Jinping or Russian President Vladimir Putin.
On the coronavirus pandemic, the G7 pledged to work with industry to expand the production of affordable Covid-19 vaccines.
And finally ...
*) US backs waiver of Covid vaccine patents
The Biden administration has joined calls for more sharing of Covid-19 vaccine technology to help speed the end of the pandemic
This shift puts the US alongside many in the developing world who want rich countries to do more to get doses to the needy.
US announced its position amid World Trade Organization talks about a possible temporary waiver of its protections that would allow more manufacturers to produce the life-saving vaccines.
Daily News Brief for Wednesday, May 5th:
*) Netanyahu loses mandate to form Israel government
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has failed to meet a deadline to put together a new governing coalition.
Netanyahu, who is on trial over corruption charges, had a 28-day window to secure a coalition following the March 23rd vote.
His failure to form the new government has raised the possibility that his Likud party could be pushed into the opposition for the first time in 12 years.
*) India reports record rise in Covid-19 deaths
India's coronavirus deaths have risen by a record 3,780 in the last 24 hours a day after it crossed the grim milestone of 20 million infections.
The country has witnessed scenes of people dying outside overwhelmed hospitals and funeral pyres lighting up the night sky.
India on Tuesday announced the suspension of its Indian Premier League after players and staff at three clubs tested positive for Covid-19.
*) Mexico president vows full probe after scores die in metro accident
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has promised an investigation to find those responsible for the deaths in a fatal metro accident.
An elevated section of the Mexico City metro collapsed onto a busy highway late on Monday, killing at least 24 people and injuring at least 79 others.
The collapse is one of the deadliest episodes in the history of the city’s subway system, which is among the world's busiest.
*) Far-right crime hits record high in Germany
Germany has seen a big jump in politically motivated crimes and offences committed by far-right supporters.
Far-right offences were up nearly 6 percent in 2020 from the previous year and accounted for more than half of all politically motivated crimes.
German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer said these offences represent the highest level since police started collecting such data in 2001.
And finally ...
*) Japan considers longer state of emergency
The Japanese government is considering extending a coronavirus-driven state of emergency, a move that could cast doubt on the planned Summer Olympics.
Officials were leaning toward an extension of the measures in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures beyond May 11 as the country battles a surge in cases.
The government is expected to make an official decision to this effect as early as Friday.
Daily News Brief for Tuesday, May fourth:
*) India’s Covid cases soar past 20 million
India's total Covid caseload has soared past 20 million as the pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the country's hospitals.
In the past 24 hours, India added over 357,000 cases while the deaths rose by more than 3,400 to over 222,000 (two hundred and twenty two thousand). Many believe the true numbers to be much higher.
India’s ferocious new wave has been blamed on government failure and new virus variants.
*) Biden quadruples Trump refugee cap after delay backlash
US President Joe Biden has formally raised the nation's cap on refugee admissions to 62,500 this year after facing bipartisan blowback for his delay.
The change follows backlash from allies over Biden's earlier decision to keep his predecessor Donald Trump’s cap of 15,000 refugees.
The programme is only for refugees selected by US security and intelligence agencies from United Nations camps around the world.
*) Fresh protests called against Colombia tax reform
Protesters in Colombia have called for a new mass rally after 19 people died and more than 800 were wounded in five days of protests against tax reform.
The office of Colombia's human rights ombudsman said 846 people were injured in the protests that began across the country late last month.
Authorities have detained over 400 people, and the government has deployed the military in the worst-affected cities.
*) Several dead in Myanmar parcel bomb blasts
Blasts from at least one parcel bomb in Myanmar have killed five people, including an ousted lawmaker and three police officers opposing military rule.
Since the country’s coup, Myanmar has seen an increasing number of explosions, some of which targeted government offices or military facilities.
The latest blasts were in a village in the southern central part of Myanmar in Western Bago.
And finally ...
*) Mexico apologises to indigenous Maya for centuries of abuse
The Mexican government has offered an official apology to the indigenous Mayan people for “terrible abuses” committed against them since the Spanish conquest.
President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador presented the apology as part of a series of events this year marking the 500th anniversary of the conquest.
His government also recognised the racism and neglect that continue to afflict the ethnic minority.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, May 3rd:
*) Chad junta names transitional government
Chad’s military junta that took power last month after the death of veteran leader Idriss Deby has named a transitional government.
The so-called Transitional Military Council says it will restore democracy to the poor Sahel country within 18 months after what the opposition called an "institutional coup".
Deby's 37-year-old son Mahamat, the country's new leader, named 40 ministers and deputy ministers, including members of opposition parties.
*) Clashes across Afghanistan as US troops withdraw
Fighting between Afghan forces and the Taliban across several provinces has left more than 100 insurgents dead in the past 24 hours.
The clashes occurred as Afghanistan took control of US military base Camp Antonik in southern Helmand province.
The remaining 2,500 US troops began pulling out from Afghanistan on Saturday under a new September deadline given by President Joe Biden.
*) Niger troops killed, missing after ambush
At least 16 Niger soldiers have been killed and another is missing after an ambush on a patrol near the Mali border.
Officials said the raid in the Tahoua region occurred during the funeral of the army commander whose patrol was attacked.
It is unclear which group carried out the attack as the area is overrun by militants with links to al Qaeda and Daesh.
*) Myanmar death toll rises as defiant protests continue
Security forces in Myanmar opened fire on protesters in Yangon on Sunday, killing eight people, three months after a coup plunged the country into crisis.
Over the last 36 hours, there have been reports of rocket attacks and bombing in central provinces with at least 11 explosions reported in Yangon.
Wars with ethnic minority rebels in frontier regions in the north and east have intensified significantly since the coup.
And finally ...
*) Man Utd vs Liverpool postponed after fans storm ground
A football match between Manchester United and Liverpool has been postponed, after about 200 fans broke into Old Trafford before kick-off.
Fans are demanding the long-time American owners of Manchester United – the Glazer family – sell the club over the Super League controversy.
The club had said it was going to join a controversial European Super League, angering both the players and fans.
A stampede at a pilgrimage in Israel has killed at least 44 people and LAPD police arrest five suspects in theft of Lady Gaga’s bulldogs
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, April 30th.
*) Israel pilgrimage stampede kills at least 44 people
A massive stampede at a densely packed Jewish pilgrimage site has killed at least 44 people in northern Israel.
The incident occurred at the tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai in Mount Meron, where mainly ultra-Orthodox Jews flock to mark the Lag B’Omer holiday.
Closed last year due to coronavirus restrictions, this year's pilgrimage was expected to be a celebratory event for Israel.
*) India posts record daily rise in Covid-19 cases of 386,452
The first US emergency aid has arrived in India as it grapples with a devastating surge in Covid-19 cases.
The Covid-ravaged country posted another record daily rise of more than three-hundred-and-eighty-six thousand (386,000) new cases and more than 3,400 deaths.
The country is in deep crisis, with hospitals and morgues overwhelmed, and an oxygen shortage that is expected to continue well into May.
*) Pentagon preparing for Taliban attacks during US withdrawal
The Pentagon is preparing for possible Taliban attacks on US and coalition forces as they withdraw from Afghanistan.
All US and other foreign forces were to have departed Afghanistan on May 1 under last year’s deal between the Taliban and the Trump administration.
President Joe Biden decided the final but delayed withdrawal by September 11. The Taliban see the delay as a violation of the agreement.
*) Kyrgyzstan says death toll in clashes with Tajikistan rises to 13
Kyrgyzstan has said it evacuated 11,500 people in the aftermath of border clashes with Tajikistan that claimed 13 lives.
Kyrgyzstan's health ministry said the country had suffered 134 casualties "including 13 fatalities", with two of the injured in a serious condition.
Fighting between the two countries began on Thursday as their militaries exchanged fire at the border over a water source, with a ceasefire announced the same day.
And finally ...
*) Five charged in violent abduction of Lady Gaga's bulldogs
In Hollywood, police have arrested five people over the February abduction of Lady Gaga’s two bulldogs and the shooting of a dog walker during the theft.
Four of the suspects are known street gang members, while the fifth was the woman who said she had found the dogs and safely returned them for a reward.
The two bulldogs were dropped off unharmed at an LAPD station on February 26 and delivered to the musician's representatives two days after they were snatched.
And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, April 29th:
*) Biden marks 100 days in office with address to joint Congress
US President Joe Biden has marked his one hundred days in office with a commitment to turn around the economy in a country hit hard by the virus pandemic.
In his first address to Congress, Biden said more new jobs have been created in the country in his first 100 days than by any other president on record.
Biden said, "We're in a competition with China and other countries to win the 21st Century.”
*) Ghani offers to share power with Afghan Taliban to end war
Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani has offered a share in power to the Taliban, provided the militant group stops fighting.
Ghani said lessons must be learned from the bitter experiences of the past and applied to the peace process.
Afghanistan is witnessing an escalation in violence since the US announced it will withdraw American troops by September.
*) US indicts 3 on hate crime charges in death of Ahmaud Arbery
US prosecutors have charged three white men in Georgia with federal hate crimes and attempted kidnapping in last year's killing of Ahmaud Arbery.
Travis McMichael and his father, Gregory armed themselves, chased and fatally shot the 25-year-old Black man with the help of a third man, William Roddie Bryan.
The three men, currently in jail, were charged with one count of interference with civil rights and attempted kidnapping.
*) Brexit saga ends with EU trade deal vote
The European Parliament has overwhelmingly ratified the EU's post-Brexit trade deal with Britain.
In the final tally, 660 members of European Parliament voted in favour of the zero-tariff and zero-quota trade deal and five against, with 32 abstentions.
The vote formally draws a line under the Brexit saga which saw Britain and Europe seal a divorce deal that bitterly divided the UK.
And finally ...
*) Michael Jordan's rookie season sneakers up for sale
A pair of red sneakers worn by NBA legend Michael Jordan at the start of his Chicago Bulls career is expected to fetch over $100,000 at a Sotheby auction.
Jordan's shoes are the star lot among 13 pairs from former NBA stars, including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Patrick Ewing, Stephen Curry and Scottie Pippen.
Jordan played 13 seasons with the Bulls, winning six championships and is currently the owner of the Charlotte Hornets.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, April 28th:
*) US orders its embassy staff to leave Afghanistan
The US has ordered a significant number of its embassy staff in Kabul to leave Afghanistan as the military escalates troop pullout from the country.
The US State Department said it instructed all personnel to depart unless their jobs require them to be physically in the country.
It also said US citizens should not travel to Afghanistan and those who are there and are willing to depart should leave as soon as possible.
*) Somali president calls for elections to ease tensions
Somalia's President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed has called for elections after the extension of his mandate by two years sparked a crisis in the country.
His decision came after the opposition and government exchanged gunfire on Sunday in an eruption of long-simmering tensions sparked by the delay of February elections.
The international community has repeatedly called for elections to go ahead, threatening sanctions.
*) India’s Covid-19 deaths cross 200,000 mark
India’s cumulative death toll since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic has crossed the 200,000 mark.
On Wednesday, the South Asian country reported another daily record of over 3,000 deaths and more than 360,000 cases.
Many experts and media outlets have said the true number of people dying from Covid-19 in India is being suppressed or undercounted by the government.
*) MBS seeks ‘good relations’ with Iran
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has said he seeks "good relations" with the kingdom's arch-nemesis Iran.
The two countries cut ties in 2016 after Iranian protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shia cleric.
The crown prince said Riyadh was also working with regional and global partners to find solutions to what he called Tehran's "negative behaviour".
And finally ...
*) Samsung heirs to pay billions, donate Picasso works to settle tax bill
The heirs to South Korea's Samsung group have announced plans to pay more than 10 billion dollars and give their Picasso and Monet artworks to settle a tax bill.
Lee Kun-hee, the late Samsung Electronics chairman died last October at the age of 78, leaving an estimated 19.6 billion dollars in assets.
South Korea has stringent inheritance tax laws and high rates, resulting in a hefty bill for the family.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, April 27th:
*) US to share its hoarded stash of 60M AstraZeneca vaccines
The White House has said the US will share with the world its hoarded stash of 60 million AstraZeneca vaccines doses.
Critics have accused Washington of hoarding a vaccine it has not authorised and will likely not be required to vaccinate Americans.
The AstraZeneca hoarding issue rose to the fore after India's catastrophic virus surge that has overwhelmed its healthcare system.
*) Rebel group overruns Myanmar army base near Thai border
A prominent ethnic rebel group has attacked and captured a military base in eastern Myanmar near the Thai border.
The Karen National Union (KNU), a vocal opponent of the coup in Myanmar, announced overrunning the base after weeks of clashes with the military along the eastern border.
Residents reported hearing gunfire and explosions in Karen state near the Salween River, along Myanmar's border with Thailand.
*) HRW report accuses Israel of committing apartheid crimes
Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of pursuing policies of apartheid and persecution against Palestinians amounting to crimes against humanity.
Human Rights Watch said its report was not aimed at comparing Israel with apartheid-era South Africa but rather at assessing "whether specific acts and policies" constitute "apartheid" as defined under international law.
Tel Aviv rejected the report that was released weeks after the ICC said it will investigate war crimes in Israeli-occupied areas of West Bank and Gaza.
*) Rocket attack in Afghanistan wounds scores of children
A rocket hit the provincial governor's compound in Afghanistan's eastern Kunar province during a religious ceremony, wounding at least 16 children.
Officials said three Afghan security force members and religious affairs officials were also wounded in the attack blamed on Taliban militants.
Fighting between the Afghan government and Taliban increased after peace talks failed to progress despite international calls to reduce violence.
And finally …
*) RARES pays $1.8M for Kanye's old Nike Air Yeezy 1s
A pair of Nike Air Yeezy 1s worn by rapper Kanye West has sold for $1.8 million, triple the previous record for sneakers.
The shoes beat the record held by a pair of Nike Air Jordan 1s which sold for $615,000 in August 2020 at a Christie's auction.
West wore the black high top Yeezys at the 2008 Grammy Awards as he performed "Hey Mama" and "Stronger."
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, April 26th:
*) Global pledges of help for Covid-stricken India
The US has led international pledges of support for India as the country’s coronavirus crisis grows.
The Indian healthcare system is struggling to cope with an unprecedented surge in cases and shortfalls in oxygen supplies.
India set a global record for a rise in daily coronavirus cases for a fifth straight day, with over 352,000 new infections as the death toll rose by a record 2,812 to reach more than 195,000 fatalities.
*) Police remove east Jerusalem barricades after violent protests
Israeli police allowed Palestinians to gather at the staired plaza outside Damascus Gate in Israeli-occupied east Jerusalem after days of clashes.
The flashpoint site is a traditional gathering spot for Palestinians during the fasting month of Ramadan but had been barricaded by Israel since April 13.
Israel's latest decision to remove the barriers could help calm tensions after security forces injured dozens of protesting Palestinians.
*) Ankara summons US envoy over Biden's 1915 remarks
Turkey’s foreign ministry has summoned the US Ambassador in Ankara to protest President Biden's statement on the Armenian events of 1915.
On Saturday, Biden followed through on a campaign promise to recognise the events that began in 1915 as "genocide."
Turkey rejects the use of the word, saying both Turks and Armenians were killed and has called for a joint history commission to investigate.
*) Indonesia says missing submarine found, all 53 crew killed
A missing Indonesian submarine has been found, broken into at least three parts, at the bottom of the Bali Sea, with all 53 crew members killed.
The 44-year old KRI Nanggala-402 had gone missing during an exercise last week, prompting a large-scale search operation joined by several countries.
Indonesian Navy chief of staff Yudo Margono said the crew were not to blame for the tragedy and that the vessel did not experience a blackout, blaming "forces of nature".
And finally …
*) 'Nomadland' wins big at Oscars as Zhao makes history
US road movie "Nomadland" emerged as the big winner at the Oscars with three major prizes, including a history-making award for director Chloe Zhao.
Zhao's drama was honoured for best picture, director and actor for Frances McDormand, who now is in elite company with her third Academy Award.
The unorthodox Oscars ceremony was moved from a Hollywood theatre to a glammed-up downtown train station to abide by strict Covid-19 protocols.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, April 23rd:
*) Biden opens climate summit with impressive pledges
US President Joe Biden has pledged to cut domestic carbon emissions in half by the year 2030.
He made the announcement when he opened a two-day virtual climate summit with world leaders.
Biden urged other nations to take decisive action and hopes his move will spur China and other big polluters to speed up efforts of their own.
*) Israeli police and Palestinians face off in Jerusalem
Israeli police have injured at least 32 Palestinians during clashes in occupied East Jerusalem.
The clashes occurred after police blocked off Damascus Gate, a traditional outdoor gathering spot for Palestinians during Ramadan.
Meanwhile, far-right Jewish group Lahava fueled tensions by holding a protest and chanted, “Arabs get out!”, near Damascus Gate.
*) Al Sharpton delivers eulogy at Daunte Wright funeral
It was an emotional farewell in Minneapolis, at the funeral of Daunte Wright, an Black man who was shot by a white police officer last week.
Civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy and spoke about continuing the fight for justice and change in the US, to prevent future killings by police.
Former officer Kim Potter, who killed Wright, has been charged with second-degree manslaughter.
*) Putin ready to resolve issues with Ukraine
Russia's President Vladimir Putin says he's ready to talk to his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to try and repair their relations.
Moscow announced it will withdraw some of its soldiers who've been involved in military drills near Ukraine's border.
There've been weeks of rising tensions there with Ukraine worried about another possible Russian invasion.
And finally …
*) Elon Musk reveals rules for $100M CO2 removal challenge
Elon Musk is offering inventors the largest incentive prize in history.
A cool $100 million to anyone who can develop ways to fight global warming by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere or ocean.
The prize money was announced in January, but the rules of the project were made on Thursday, which was Earth Day.
Participants of the XPRIZE Carbon Removal project will have four years to come up with a plan or invention to sequester carbon for at least 100 years.
*) Israel retaliates to missile fired from Syria
A surface-to-air missile fired from Syria has exploded near Israel's Dimona nuclear reactor.
Israel retaliated by targeting Iranian militia positions across the border.
Tensions are high between Israel and Iran over a recent surge in sabotage attacks, some of which the arch-foes have blamed on each other.
*) IOC: Taking a knee at Olympics will be punishable
Athletes who take a knee or lift a fist against racial inequality will be punished during the Olympics in Tokyo.
This is according to the International Olympic Committee, who say it will keep its ban on political protests inside stadiums, at ceremonies and on podiums.
Many are disgusted by the IOC's draconian stance and are calling for the rule to be changed against the backdrop of the Black Lives Matter movement.
*) Indonesian submarine still missing
Indonesia's navy has asked Singapore and Australia to help search for a submarine that went missing after a training exercise.
So far, an oil spill was found near the vessel's last known location.
Officials suspect the vessel, carrying 53 sailors, has sunk to a depth of 600 to 700 metres.
*) Syria loses its rights at OPCW
Syria has been stripped of its privileges and voting rights at the global chemical weapons watchdog.
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons found the Syrian regime guilty of repeatedly using poisonous gas during the civil war.
The draft was proposed by 46 nations, including the US, UK and France.
And finally …
*) Tiny Icelandic town preps for Oscars
The tiny Icelandic town of Husavik, made famous by the hit comedy, "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga," is now preparing for the Oscars.
The film's power ballad, "Husavik (My Hometown)," was nominated for Best Original Song, and has fired up the town with excitement.
A red carpet has been rolled out on the main street and schools and shops will close to give residents a chance to watch the Academy Awards show live.
*) Derek Chauvin found guilty of George Floyd’s murder
Former police officer Derek Chauvin has been found guilty of murdering George Floyd, and could spend decades in prison.
The jury deliberated less than 11 hours before finding Chauvin guilty of all three charges against him: second-degree murder, third-degree murder and manslaughter.
The incident sparked a worldwide movement against racism, police brutality, and calls to reform the way police operate in the US.
*) Xi to attend Biden’s climate crisis summit
China's President Xi Jinping will attend a US-hosted virtual climate crisis summit at the invitation of US President Joe Biden.
Beijing and Washington have been at odds over a number of issues including human rights and China's economic influence over other countries.
Biden has also invited a large group of world leaders to the summit marking Washington's return to lead the fight against climate change.
*) EMA: J&J vaccine can be used with warning on label
European Medicines Agency has lifted a suspension imposed on Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccines, and says it can be used with a warning on the label.
The drug regulator’s investigation found a link between the vaccine and a rare blood-clotting condition in adults.
It reiterated that the overall benefits of the jab outweigh the risks.
*) Super League in ruins as all six English clubs pull out
All six English clubs have dramatically abandoned plans to join a European Super League, imploding the breakaway project within 48 hours of it being announced.
It comes after escalating backlash from their supporters and warnings from the UK government that legislation could be introduced to thwart them.
The project was created to rival the UEFA Champions League and give massive financial certainty to the 12 clubs involved.
And finally …
*) New Yorkers fly high after getting their jabs
New Yorkers were flying high after they were given a free marijuana joint with their Covid-19 jabs.
Activists celebrating the recent legalisation of recreational pot in New York state, were handing out free doobies to those with proof of vaccination.
In recent weeks many companies have launched various incentives across the US in an attempt to counter vaccine hesitancy.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, April 20th:
*) Jury in Derek Chauvin's murder trial begin deliberations
A verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former cop who's accused of killing George Floyd, is expected soon.
The jury will now deliberate over Chauvin's innocence or guilt after attorneys from both sides rested their cases.
Floyd's death sparked mass demonstrations in and outside the US against police racism and brutality.
*) ASEAN bloc under pressure to end crisis in Myanmar
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and his predecessor Ban Ki-moon have urged the ASEAN bloc to help find a peaceful solution to the crisis in Myanmar.
Pressure is on the bloc, which is hosting Myanmar's junta leader at its annual summit this weekend.
The junta is ramping up its efforts to quell mass anti-coup protests against its ousting of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, with at least 737 civilians killed and the press increasingly under attack.
*) US: Military build-up near Ukraine larger than 2014
The US has called on Moscow to reverse its build-up of forces along its border with Ukraine.
The Pentagon says the stationing of 100,000 troops there is larger than what Russia sent to annex the Crimean Peninsula in 2014.
Tensions between Moscow and Kiev have been rising amid the military build-up and clashes in eastern Ukraine between the army and pro-Russian separatists.
*) Victims file a case in Sweden over Syrian chemical attacks
Lawyers representing victims of chemical weapons attacks in Syria have filed a criminal complaint with Swedish police.
According to the complaint, the Syrian regime used chemical weapons in attacks on the opposition-held towns of Ghouta in 2013, and Khan Sheikhoun in 2017.
Swedish authorities could join France and Germany to jointly investigate the use of chemical weapons in Syria.
And finally …
*) NASA's Mars helicopter takes its historic first flight
NASA successfully flew its Ingenuity helicopter on Mars, the first powered flight on another planet.
The triumph, hailed as a Wright brothers moment, saw the mini 1.8kg copter hover at 3 meters above the ground for 39 seconds.
Ingenuity's goal is to prove its tech works and can help scientists develop aircrafts that can explore celestial areas that are harder to access by land.
*) Russia expels 20 Czech diplomats in tit-for-tat move
Relations between Russia and Czech Republic are unravelling amid a diplomatic spat.
Russia is expelling 20 Czech diplomats in response to a similar move by Prague which expelled 18 Russian diplomats.
The Czech Republic says it has linked Russian intelligence to a blast in an ammunition depot some 300 km east of Prague, a charge Moscow denies.
*) Greece, Israel ink record defence agreement
Israel and Greece have signed their biggest-ever defence procurement deal.
The agreement includes a $1.65 billion contract over a 22-year period for a training centre for the Hellenic Air Force by Israeli defence contractor Elbit Systems.
The training centre will be modelled on Israel's flight academy and will be equipped with 10 M-346 training aircraft produced by Italy's Leonardo.
*) Australia, New Zealand open quarantine-free travel bubble
Joy marks the reopening of Australia and New Zealand's travel bubble after a year, as families reunite and the tourism sector looks for a boom.
Television footage showed hundreds of passengers crowding the international departure terminals at Australian airports.
New Zealand was previously enforcing 14-day quarantines for arrivals from Australia over concerns about sporadic coronavirus outbreaks there.
*) Hardline religious party frees 11 Pakistani police hostages
Eleven Pakistani police officers seized by supporters of a now-banned hardline religious group have been released after government negotiations.
The officers were taken hostage on Sunday by supporters of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) during violent protests in Lahore as part of their effort to get the French ambassador expelled.
The TLP, backed by religious political parties, has called for a nationwide strike in Pakistan.
And finally …
*) Top 12 European clubs launch breakaway league, splitting football
A group of 12 European clubs have split football by announcing plans to walk away from the Champions League to create a breakaway competition.
The creation of "Super League" has drawn an angry response from fans and players alike as governing body UEFA threatens to ban the teams from domestic and international competition.
The seismic move to shake up the world’s biggest sport is partly engineered by the American owners of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United.
*) US imposes fresh sanctions on Russia
The US has imposed new sanctions on Russia after accusing Moscow of launching a massive cyber attack last year, and interfering in November's presidential election.
Moscow denies all the allegations and says it will respond.
The US is also expelling some staff from Russia’s embassy in Washington, and placing targeted sanctions on individuals and entities in Russia.
*) Chicago release video of police killing 13-year-old
Footage from a police body camera has been released, showing a policeman shooting and killing a 13-year-old boy in Chicago last month.
Police say Adam Toledo was shot after running down an alley with a gun in his hand, and had ignored an officer's request to stop and drop the weapon.
The lawyer representing Toledo's family denies the teen was carrying a gun.
*) French MPs approve controversial security law
France's parliament has passed a security bill extending police powers.
The legislation gives police more power, while limiting the publication of images and video of officers performing their duties.
The law was passed despite criticism from civil rights activists, who fear it protects police brutality and threatens efforts to denounce it.
*) Pfizer: Third Covid vaccine dose needed within a year
Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla says people will likely need a third dose of his company's Covid-19 vaccine within a year of being fully vaccinated.
He added that annual vaccinations against the coronavirus may also be required.
His statement comes after Pfizer researchers said they did not know how long their vaccines will provide protection against the coronavirus as variants keep mutating.
*) Cuban zoo welcomes birth of endangered Bengal tigers
Zookeepers at Cuba's National Zoo in Havana are celebrating the birth of a litter of Bengal tigers, among them a rare white cub.
This birth comes after two decades of trying to breed the endangered animals.
Thousands of Bengal tigers once roamed the forests of Bangladesh, India and Nepal, but numbers have dwindled due to poaching and deforestation.
*) Ex-cop charged in shooting of Black motorist
Kim Potter, the white cop who shot and killed Black man Daunte Wright, has been arrested and charged with second degree manslaughter.
Minneapolis has been roiled by nightly protests after Potter appeared to have mistaken her gun for her Taser when she killed Wright on Sunday.
Meanwhile, protests are also continuing in major US cities against police brutality against people of colour.
*) Derek Chauvin’s defence team face quagmire
Staying in Minneapolis, Derek Chauvin’s defence team will continue presenting their case.
Their latest witness, the former chief medical examiner for the state of Maryland, testified that George Floyd's heart problems and drug use contributed to a sudden heart attack that caused his death.
The defence team, who’ve taken a knock in the trial so far, face a crucial decision over whether to put Chauvin on the witness stand.
*) Denmark halts use of AstraZeneca vaccine
Denmark has halted the use of the AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine, becoming Europe's first country to do so.
It's because of concerns about rare cases of blood clotting among recipients.
The move could delay Denmark's vaccination programme by several weeks.
*) Houston Rockets works with FBI after being hit by major cyberattack
The Houston Rockets basketball team's internal systems have been hacked.
Bloomberg reports that the Babuk hacking group claims to have stolen 500GB of data, including contracts, non-disclosure agreements and financial data.
The Rockets have roped in the FBI to investigate the cyberattack.
*) NFT art fetches $16.8M at Sotheby's
An NFT piece by digital artist Pak has sold for a whopping $16.8M at a Sotheby's online auction.
The Sotheby's sale had a complex structure, including a series of digital cubes which collectors could buy for $500 to $1,500 each, receiving a number of NFTs based on how many cubes they owned.
Last month, an NFT piece sold for $69.3M at Christie’s, in the first sale ever by a major auction house of a piece of art that does not exist in physical form.
*) US to withdraw all troops from Afghanistan by September 11
President Joe Biden says the US will withdraw all troops from Afghanistan by September 11, almost 20 years after the war began.
Biden's decision would miss a May 1 withdrawal deadline that his predecessor Donald Trump had agreed to with the Taliban.
Hours after the announcement, the Taliban said the group will not attend any summit on Afghanistan's future until all foreign forces leave the country.
*) Minnesota officers resign two days after Daunte Wright shooting
The Minnesota police officer who fatally shot Black motorist Daunte Wright during a traffic stop and the city's police chief have resigned.
The resignations came after the city council passed a resolution to dismiss both police personnel over the death by “mistake” that triggered protests.
Tensions have soared in the community, already on edge amid former cop Derek Chauvin's ongoing murder trial over George Floyd’s death last year.
*) Pakistan forces try to clear sit-ins by protesters
Pakistani forces fired tear gas at baton-charged supporters of a religious party after five people died in earlier demonstrations that turned violent this week.
Protests erupted on Monday in major cities across the country after police arrested Saad Rizvi, the leader of the Tehreek-e-Labiak Pakistan.
Rizvi was taken into custody hours after the TLP threatened the government with protests if they did not expel France’s ambassador over depictions of Islam’s Prophet Muhammad.
*) US pauses use of J&J vaccine over rare blood clots
Health authorities in the US have called for an immediate pause in the use of the Johnson and Johnson single-dose coronavirus vaccine.
The joint decision, by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control, comes after a rare disorder involving blood clots was reported in six people.
Almost seven million Americans have received the Johnson and Johnson shots and one suspected death has been reported from clots linked to the jab.
*) A photo of Turkey’s Van lake wins NASA competition
A photograph of Lake Van in eastern Turkey has won a NASA photo competition.
The photo, depicting the lake with its swirling cerulean and azure waters, was captured by astronaut Kate Rubins from space.
The Tournament Earth competition gathered 32 participants and featured more than two decades of snapshots taken by astronauts.
Curfew in Minneapolis after police killing of Black man, and Muslims begin fasting month of Ramadan amid coronavirus pandemic
NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday, April 13th.
*) Curfew imposed in Minneapolis after police killing of Black man
A curfew has been imposed in Minneapolis after protests erupted over the police killing of a Black man some 16 km from where George Floyd died last year.
A cop shot dead 20-year-old Daunte Wright on Sunday during a traffic stop, later claimed she "mistakenly" used her gun instead of a taser.
Police bodycam footage shows the officer shouting "Taser! Taser! Taser!" but then, instead, firing a gun at the victim.
*) ‘Protecting Libya's sovereignty Turkey's top goal’
President Erdogan says Turkey will support Libya’s Government of National Unity just as it did for the previous government.
Erdogan made the statement after receiving Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh for a two-day visit to Turkey.
Dbeibeh stressed Libya’s keenness to enhance relations with Turkey and hoped for cooperation in security reforms as well as combating terrorism and cross-border crime.
*) Japan to release contaminated Fukushima water into sea
Japan says it will release massive amounts of treated radioactive water from the tanks of the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.
The move prompted anger from activists and fishing communities as well as concern from neighbouring countries including China and South Korea.
The water is stored in tanks at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant since its 2011 meltdown after a massive earthquake and tsunami.
*) OPCW: Syrian regime used chemical weapons Saraqeb attack
A global chemical weapons watchdog says the Syrian regime dropped chlorine bombs in the rebel-controlled city of Saraqeb in February 2018.
The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons says a dozen people were treated for symptoms consistent with chemical poisoning.
There was no immediate comment from the Syrian regime but Damascus and its ally Russia have repeatedly denied using chemical weapons in the war.
And finally …
*) Muslims begin observing Ramadan for second time in pandemic
The Muslim fasting month of Ramadan has begun across several countries as much of the world grapples with an intense new coronavirus wave.
A time for fasting, worship and charity, Ramadan is also when Muslims congregate for prayers and gather around for meals to break their fast.
But hopes of many Muslims of a better Ramadan than last year have been dashed because of curbs imposed due to the pandemic.
*) Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident
Iran has vowed to exact revenge against regional arch-foe Israel which it blames for Sunday's incident at Natanz nuclear site.
Iranian authorities described the incident as an act of "nuclear terrorism".
Israeli public radio and other media outlets quoted intelligence sources as saying Mossad was behind a cyber attack on Iran's Natanz facility.
The sabotage comes a day after the launch of new centrifuges at the site.
*) Arauz admits defeat to Lasso in Ecuador presidential election
In Ecuador, socialist economist Andres Arauz has conceded defeat to conservative former banker Guillermo Lasso after a presidential election run-off.
Lasso received more than 52 percent of the vote and defeated Arauz.
His victory comes as Ecuador grapples with a health and economic crisis due to the coronavirus pandemic.
*) US: There will be consequences if Russia acts aggressively
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned Russia there would be consequences if Moscow acts aggressively towards Ukraine.
Blinken's statement comes as the Kremlin says certain conditions of the Minsk Protocol must be met before peace talks can go ahead with Kiev.
Fighting has intensified in recent weeks between Ukraine's army and pro-Russia separatists, with Russian troop build-up raising concerns of major escalation.
*) Myanmar security forces killed more than 700 since February 1
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borell says China and Russia are blocking attempts to implement an arms embargo in Myanmar.
More than 700 people have been killed by security forces since the military snatched power from the government in February.
China and Russia are the largest suppliers of weapons to Myanmar where the junta continues to crack down on anti-coup protesters.
And finally …
*) Hideki becomes first Japanese man to win a major tournament
Hideki Matsuyama has become the first Japanese man to win a major golf championship with a one-shot Masters victory.
He overpowered Will Zalatoris, his closest challenger, at Augusta National in his 33rd major championship appearance.
Matsuyama held off the field that included Xander Schauffele and debutant Zalatoris to win the Masters by one stroke.
*) Medical experts deal big blow to Derek Chauvin’s defence
Medical experts asserted that Derek Chauvin killed George Floyd by kneeling on his neck long enough to cut off his oxygen.
Doctors Martin Tobin and Bill Smock testified that a lack of oxygen led to brain damage and caused Floyd's heart to stop.
The damaging testimony has ripped a big hole in the defence's theory that Floyd died because of his issues with drugs.
*) Biden attempts to tackle US gun violence
President Joe Biden branded US gun violence an epidemic at a ceremony to unveil his first attempt at getting the problem under control.
With Congress unable to agree on broad new gun regulations, Biden announced six measures that he said will help slow down the crisis.
The new measures include a move to crack down on homemade firearms that lack serial numbers and tightened regulations on pistol-stabilising braces.
*) Israel will not cooperate with ICC war crimes probe
Israel has formally decided not to cooperate with an International Criminal Court investigation into war crimes committed in Palestinian territories.
The ICC's chief prosecutor last month opened an investigation into incidents in the Israeli-occupied territories.
Palestinians called the move a rare opportunity to hold Israel accountable for what they call serious and longstanding violations of international law.
*) Violence erupts again in Northern Ireland despite pleas for calm
Authorities in Northern Ireland sought to restore calm after Protestant and Catholic youths in Belfast hurled bricks, fireworks and petrol bombs at police and each other.
The often violent protests that began last week stemmed from the unionist community, leading to joint condemnation from political leaders in the British province.
Unionists are angry over apparent economic dislocation due to Brexit and existing tensions with pro-Irish nationalist communities.
And finally …
*) Mike Pompeo joins Fox News
Fox News has hired former US secretary of state Mike Pompeo as an on-screen contributor and political pundit.
The conservative cable network has hired other members of the Trump orbit in recent months, including his daughter-in-law Lara Trump and former White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany.
Pompeo says he intends to give viewers a candid, no-nonsense look at geopolitics and international relations.
*) US to repair ties with Palestine
The US has announced it will resume financial support for the UN agency that supports Palestinian refugees.
The aid package, worth more than $230 million, will go toward humanitarian, economic and security assistance.
The move is aimed at repairing Washington's ties with the Palestinians after the Trump administration cut the funding.
*) US reviews child migrant cases at the Mexican border
The US is reviewing the cases of 5,600 migrant children to determine if they were separated from their families at the Mexican border by the Trump administration.
President Joe Biden is aiming to build a comprehensive database of families that were separated under Trump's zero-tolerance migration policy.
Biden issued an executive order in February, which aims to reunite children taken away from their parents.
*) Australian politicians no longer exempt from sexual harassment rules
Australia is overhauling its sexual harassment laws to make members of parliament, judges and public servants accountable for their actions.
The move aims to quell public anger over parliamentary sex abuse scandals.
MPs, judges and public servants are currently exempt from anti-harassment rules that apply to other Australian workplaces, though they can still face criminal prosecution for sexual assault.
*) Authorities close investigation into Tiger Woods crash
The LA County Sheriff's Department has closed its investigation into the accident that injured golfer Tiger Woods.
In a concluding report, the department said Woods may have hit the accelerator instead of the brake before his accident.
The black box of the SUV showed the car was moving at 135 to 140km/h before it crashed, which is double the speed limit.
And finally …
*) Rare Superman comic sells for record $3.25M
A mint 1938 comic book that introduced Superman to the world sold for a record $3.25 million during a ComicConnect.com online auction.
The comic showed readers the origins of Superman, how he came to Earth from Krypton and moved around as Clark Kent.
It's estimated only about 100 copies of Action Comics #1 exists today but in varying conditions.
*) President Erdogan says Turkey's ultimate goal is full EU membership
Turkey’s President Erdogan held talks with top officials in Ankara on a range of issues including the refugee crisis, trade, visa liberalisation, and a revamp of ties.
President Erdogan told EU Commission head Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council chief Charles Michel, that Ankara's ultimate goal is to attain full membership into the bloc.
The EU Commission says it will soon make a proposal to Turkey to ensure the flow of funding for refugees.
*) Iran says initial talks with world powers ‘constructive'
Iran says negotiations aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal are heading in the right direction.
Top diplomats from all the signatories to the original agreement are in Vienna for talks.
While Iran says it will not directly negotiate with the US until all sanctions are lifted, Washington hopes to rejoin the accord abandoned by the Trump administration in 2018.
*) US says Ukraine needs to be more free for NATO membership
The US says it will support Ukraine's candidacy for NATO membership-- but only if the country becomes more stable, democratic, prosperous and free. Ukraine’s president asserts that a spot in NATO could discourage Russian aggression on its border.
But Moscow calls the assertion hostile, and warned any presence of NATO troops will worsen the situation.
*) UN says death toll from clashes in Darfur at least 56
At least 56 people were killed in clashes in Sudan’s Western Darfur, prompting the government to impose a state of emergency in the region.
The UN says almost 4,000 people have fled to neighbouring Chad, amid the recent escalation of violence.
The clashes are the latest in a resurgence of violence, since the signing of a peace agreement late last year and the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers.
And finally …
*) Mrs. Sri Lanka contest ends in onstage drama
A beauty contest in Sri Lanka ended in onstage drama, with the winner reporting head injuries.
After being awarded the Mrs. Sri Lanka title, Pushpika De Silva had her crown seized moments later by its 2019 winner, Caroline Jurie.
Jurie took the microphone and said there’s a rule which says participants must be married, not divorced. She then attempted to remove the crown from the winner’s head.
Organisers say there’s no such rule and kept De Silva as the new winner.
*) Kneeling on Floyd's neck violated policy, ‘values’ says police chief
Minneapolis police chief Medaria Arradondo testified in the Derek Chauvin murder trial, saying the former cop violated policy during George Floyd's arrest.
Arradondo said the use of force against Floyd was reasonable during the "first few seconds" of his arrest but that it should have ended quickly.
Floyd’s May 2020 death in police custody had sparked protests against racism and police brutality across the US and around the world.
*) Royal court: Prince Hamzah pledged loyalty to King Abdullah
Jordan's royal court says former crown prince, Hamzah bin al Hussein, has signed a letter pledging allegiance to King Abdullah.
The king had reportedly asked an uncle to settle the dispute with his half brother.
Prince Hamzah is accused of conspiring with foreign elements in an attempt to destabilise the country's security, and was placed under house arrest.
*) Officials expect death toll in Indonesia, East Timor to rise
The death toll from floods in Indonesia and in neighbouring East Timor has risen to more than 150, with dozens more missing, following a cyclone.
Authorities recorded 130 deaths in a cluster of remote islands near East Timor.
Search-and-rescue teams are also racing to find more missing people by using diggers to clear mountains of mud and debris.
*) Hundreds of inmates freed after gunmen attack prison
More than 1,800 inmates escaped from a prison in southern Nigeria after a heavily armed gang attacked the facility.
The attackers used explosives and engaged in a gun battle with police before freeing the inmates.
No group has claimed responsibility for the coordinated jail break.
And finally …
*) Prayer vigil held outside NY hospital for rapper DMX
Supporters and family of rapper DMX chanted his name and offered up prayers outside a New York hospital, where he remains on life support.
The 50-year-old was admitted on Friday following a heart attack.
The cause of the heart attack is not known but DMX has long suffered with drug addiction.
*) Wave of arrests over plot to destabilise Jordan
Jordan's government says it has foiled a plot against the kingdom involving Hamzah, the half-brother of King Abdullah.
At least 16 suspects were arrested and were accused of sedition and working with foreign parties to undermine the security of the country.
US, Gulf allies and the Arab League were quick to stress their support for King Abdullah's pro-Western government.
*) Former Malaysian PM appeals 1MDB conviction
Former Malaysian PM Najib Razak is appealing his conviction on corruption charges and a 12-year jail term linked to the multi-billion-dollar 1MDB scandal.
In July, Najib was sentenced to prison, and fined nearly $50 million, after he was found guilty of money laundering.
At least six countries have opened investigations into the scandal, which implicates high-level officials and major financial institutions.
*) Thousands buy Covid-19 vaccines in Pakistan
Thousands of Pakistanis are queuing up to spend $80 on the two-shot Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine.
Last month, the country allowed the private sector to import vaccines and sell it to the public.
Despite the cost and government issuing free jabs, the vaccines are almost sold out and are being bought largely by young people.
*) Landslides kill scores in Indonesia
Flash floods and landslides in Indonesia's Flores Island and neighbouring East Timor have killed dozens of people and displaced many more.
Several are also reported missing after homes were buried in mud.
Indonesia's weather agency says a tropical cyclone is approaching, which could bring more rain and floods.
And finally …
*) Tom Brady’s rookie card sells for record amount
The so-called Holy Grail of Tom Brady's rookie cards sold for a record $2.25 million at auction to an anonymous buyer.
The sale comes two months after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback picked up his seventh NFL Super Bowl title.
Last month, another card from Brady's rookie season fetched $1.32 million in an online auction.
*) Myanmar shuts down wireless internet
Myanmar's junta has shut down wireless internet across the country in its attempt to quell anti-coup protests.
This comes as the UN Security Council strongly condemned the junta for using lethal force against anti-coup protesters.
Rights groups say over 530 protesters have been killed since the February coup that has seen mass resistance.
*) Chauvin defence relying on Floyd’s drug abuse
The trial of Derek Chauvin, a former police officer charged with murdering George Floyd, continues in Minneapolis.
On day four, jurors heard from Floyd's girlfriend who spoke about their opioid addiction, two paramedics who arrived on the scene and from one of Chauvin's supervisors.
The narrative of the defence relies on linking Floyd's drug abuse to his death.
The Black man's death was ruled a homicide at the hands of police months ago.
*) Egypt demands over $1B in damages from Suez blockage
Egypt wants over $1 billion in damages for helping move the MV Ever Given vessel from the Suez Canal.
The country's Suez Canal Authority based the amount on revenue losses, the cost of equipment, and payment for the 800 rescuers who helped.
It's not clear who will foot the bill as the Japanese owners are suing the Taiwanese operators of the Panama-flagged ship in London.
The six-day blockage threw global supply chains into disarray.
*) WHO slams EU's slow vaccination campaign
The World Health Organization has criticised the slow pace of Covid-19 vaccine rollouts in Europe as it braces for a fourth wave.
Vaccination drives in many European countries have experienced delays, and infections are on the rise.
The WHO says vaccines are the best way out of the pandemic, and that countries may have to reintroduce lockdowns to compensate for the delay in jabs.
And finally …
*) Ash Barty storms into Miami Open final
World number one Ashleigh Barty has booked a spot in the Miami Open final with a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Elina Svitolina.
The Australian, who won the tournament in 2019, is trying to make her first successful defence of a WTA title.
She'll either face Bianca Andreescu or Maria Sakkari for the title on Saturday.
*) Veteran Hong Kong activists convicted over huge rally
A Hong Kong court has found seven veteran anti-Beijing activists guilty of organising and participating in an unauthorised mass protest.
These include 82-year-old barrister Martin Lee and media tycoon Jimmy Lai. Two others previously pleaded guilty.
Some 1.7 million people marched in the August 18, 2019 rally in opposition to an extradition bill.
*) UN envoy says Myanmar on verge of 'civil war'
The UN envoy for Myanmar has warned of civil war and an imminent "bloodbath" as the junta continues to repress anti-coup protests.
The envoy has requested the Security Council take action amid the escalating crisis.
More than 520 people have died in daily rallies since the military overthrew elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi in February.
*) Floyd footage from police body cameras played for first time
In the US, the jury in former cop Derek Chauvin's murder trial watched footage from multiple police body cams, showing how events unfolded in George Floyd's killing.
The videos include the moment of Floyd's arrest at gunpoint for allegedly passing a fake $20 note and his pleas that he “can't breathe” as he is pinned down by officers.
Footage also show Floyd crying and resisting as cops force him into the car, saying he is claustrophobic and has anxiety.
*) Brazil cemeteries hold night funerals to accommodate all burials
Brazil is suffering its worst moments of the coronavirus pandemic. It's now recording nearly 4,000 daily deaths, as infections rise due to new variants.
Authorities say they've been forced into night-time burials to clear a backlog of bodies.
Nearly 320,000 people have died in Brazil of Covid-19, the second-highest death toll in the world after the US.
And finally …
*) North Macedonia shock Germany as France, England grind out wins
Germany suffered a stunning 2-1 home loss to North Macedonia in World Cup qualifiers.
Napoli midfielder Eljif Elmas secured victory for North Macedonia in Duisburg, scoring five minutes from time to give his country a second win from three Group J matches.
In the night’s other results, defending champions France edged past Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-0 and England beat Poland 2-1, a side missing injured striker Robert Lewandowski.
Witnesses continue to testify in George Floyd’s murder trial and Oscars plan Europe venues for nominees over pandemic fears
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Wednesday, March 31st.
*) 'It wasn't right', witness to Floyd death tells court
The teenager who captured the viral video of George Floyd's death said that she knew at the time "it wasn't right".
Darnella Frazier, 18, was among the witnesses who gave emotional testimony at the high-profile trial of former police officer Derek Chauvin who had killed Floyd.
Chauvin, 45, was charged with murder and manslaughter for his role in Floyd's May 25, 2020 death, which had triggered global protests against racism and police brutality.
*) Myanmar junta deepens violence with new air attacks in east
The military launched more air strikes in eastern Myanmar after earlier attacks forced thousands of ethnic Karen to flee into Thailand amid further escalating violence two months after the junta seized power.
The Karen National Union, the main political body representing the Karen minority, said the air strikes were the latest case of Myanmar's military breaking a ceasefire agreement and that it would have to respond.
*) Hundreds of migrants set out from Honduras, dreaming of US
A few hundred Honduran migrants set out for the Guatemalan border before dawn in hopes of eventually reaching the United States. But relatively few arrived at the official border crossing and likely decided to cross at the numerous blind points along the border to avoid detection. Other recent caravans have been broken up by Guatemalan authorities and this relatively small one appeared to dissolve before reaching the Guatemala border. *) Macron, Merkel discuss vaccine cooperation with Putin
French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed possible cooperation on vaccines with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Macron and Merkel also told Putin to respect political opponent Alexey Navalny's rights and preserve his health, the French presidency said in a statement. The three leaders in a joint video conference, also discussed the situation in Ukraine, Belarus, Libya, Syria and agreed to coordinate efforts on returning Iran to its nuclear deal that was breached by the US. And finally …
*) Oscars plan UK, France venues for nominees over pandemic travel fears
Next month's pandemic-affected Oscars ceremony will include venues in the United Kingdom and France for international nominees unable to travel to Los Angeles. Oscars presenters will remain at the previously announced main location in downtown Los Angeles' Union Station, just a short drive from Hollywood. The Academy Awards had faced growing criticism after producers earlier this month said no video calls would be allowed for those unwilling or unable to attend in person. OUTRO: And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com.
*) Cargo ship that blocked Suez Canal is freed
A giant cargo ship that was blocking Egypt's Suez Canal for almost a week has been freed.
The MV Ever Given is now heading towards the Bitter Lakes area of the waterway, where it will undergo an inspection.
Authorities say traffic in the channel has resumed, but the backlog of 422 ships is expected to be cleared in a couple of days.
*) Trial of ex-cop accused of killing George Floyd begins
The first day of testimony in the trial of the white former cop accused of killing George Floyd has ended in Minneapolis.
The prosecution and the defence started off with their opening arguments and the graphic video footage of the killing was shown to jurors.
Floyd's death last May reignited Black Lives Matter protests across the US and the world.
*) Myanmar death toll from junta crackdown passes 500
Over 500 people have been killed by Myanmar junta's brutal crackdown on protests since the coup in February.
The grim toll comes as the US suspends a trade pact with Myanmar and the UN chief is calling for a united global front to put pressure on the military to stop their atrocities.
However, daily anti-coup rallies are still continuing despite being met with tear gas, rubber bullets and live rounds.
*) EU urges Greece to investigate refugee pushbacks
The EU's top migration official is urging Greece to investigate reports of refugee pushbacks.
Ylva Johansson visited asylum facilities on Samos and Lesvos after allegations of illegal deportations by Greece.
She says the absence of a European solution to the refugee crisis is unacceptable.
And finally …
*) VW to change its name in the US
German carmaker Volkswagen will reportedly change its name in the US.
It's apparently swapping the 'K' for a 'T' as it invests heavily in electric cars.
The new name will be Voltswagen.
*) Container ship blocking Suez Canal successfully refloated
The stranded container ship in the Suez Canal has been successfully refloated and is undergoing initial inspections before being moved.
Maritime services provider Inchcape announced the breakthrough.
About 15 percent of the world’s cargo transits through the canal, where the MV Ever Given got struck last week, halting shipping traffic.
*) Dozens killed in besieged Mozambique gas town
Mozambican security forces are still battling a Daesh-linked rebel group in some areas of Palma for a fifth day.
Dozens of people were killed after the militant group laid siege to the strategic gas-rich town in Cabo Delgado province.
Hundreds of besieged people, both local and foreign nationals, have been rescued.
*) Myanmar security forces shoot at mourners at funeral
Myanmar security forces opened fire at mourners at a funeral on Sunday. There were no reported casualties.
At least 114 people were shot and killed during anti-coup protests on Saturday, marking the deadliest day since last month's military putsch.
Several nations and the UN condemned the junta for using lethal force against peaceful demonstrators.
*) Trial of white man accused of killing George Floyd set to begin
The trial of the man accused of killing George Floyd is set to begin in Minneapolis.
The former white cop is facing murder charges over the incident, that's sparked months of protests over police brutality and racism.
Opening arguments will begin at 1400 GMT in a heavily guarded Minneapolis courtroom for a trial expected to last about a month.
And finally …
*) Turkish-made mobile games see huge success in US
Turkish mobile game developers are being tapped by foreign investors after enjoying success on the US games market.
Six of the 10 most downloaded games in the US are made in Turkey.
Hunter Assassin by Izmir-based Ruby Games was the fifth most downloaded game in the world in all game categories.
*) More protests in Myanmar against military coup
In Myanmar, anti-coup protests continue to rock the country despite the military reportedly shooting dead nine demonstrators a day earlier.
The US and Britain imposed sanctions on companies controlled by the military in a bid to increase pressure on the junta over the February 1st coup.
Myanmar has been rocked by almost daily protests since the army overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government.
*) Biden sees Afghan withdrawal this year but not by May deadline
US President Joe Biden has said that he would not meet a deadline to pull out all troops from Afghanistan by May 1st as part of a Taliban deal.
He, however, said that his administration would likely end America's longest war within the year.
Asked whether he envisions US soldiers still in Afghanistan in 2022, Biden said: "I can't picture that being the case."
*) UN warns of `alarming' crisis in Ethiopia's Tigray region
A UN official has warned of an ongoing crisis in Ethiopia’s conflict-torn Tigray region, where an increasing number of people are fleeing violence.
Deputy UN aid coordinator Wafaa Said says there have been over 500 confirmed rapes, with women reporting attacks by armed actors, gang rape and rape by family members under the threat of violence.
After spending two months in Tigray, she said the impact of the crisis isn’t fully known because of communication blackouts and lack of access.
*) Israeli political deadlock confirmed as vote count ends
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his allies do not have the necessary parliamentary seats to form a majority coalition.
The official results from Tuesday's vote show that Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party and his natural allies have won 52 seats in the 120-seat Knesset,
Party negotiations have begun and if no one manages to find at least 61 seats, an unprecedented fifth election will be held in little over two years.
And finally …
*) New York Times 'NFT' article sells for $563,000
A New York Times columnist has sold one of his articles in digital form for $563,000 dollars.
Keven Roose's article entitled "Buy This Column on the Blockchain" was aimed at trying to test the market to see what sort of items sell as "NFTs".
A non-fungible token or NFT is a digital object, such as a drawing, piece of music, or video, with a certificate of authenticity created by blockchain technology.
*) Myanmar activists plan new street protests after silent strike
Myanmar’s anti-coup activists plan to resume street demonstrations a day after silent strikes left towns deserted across the country.
The junta is facing fresh outrage after a seven-year-old girl was shot dead by police raiding her home.
The regime is struggling to quell nationwide protests against the February 1 ouster and arrest of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
*) UN confirms report on Saudi threat against Khashoggi investigator
The United Nations has confirmed the accuracy of published remarks of Agnes Callamard that she was threatened by a senior Saudi official.
Callamard said a Saudi official had threatened she would be "taken care of" if she was not reined in following her investigation into the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
The UN human rights office said it had informed Callamard about the threat as well as UN security and authorities.
*) Haftar militia commander wanted by ICC shot dead in Libya
In Libya, gunmen have assassinated a mid-tier leader of the militia of warlord Khalifa Haftar. He was wanted by the ICC for war crimes.
Military sources said Mahmoud al Werfalli was shot on Wednesday from a car outside a hospital in Benghazi.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack that comes after a transitional government took power last week with the job of leading the country.
*) Cavusoglu, Blinken plan broader talks after first in-person meeting
Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has said that he and his US counterpart Antony Blinken plan to hold a more comprehensive meeting in either the US or Turkey.
Cavusoglu's remarks come after a brief huddle with Blinken on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels.
Describing the meeting as constructive, Cavusoglu said they extensively discussed Afghanistan, eastern Mediterranean, Syria, Iraq and the fight against terrorism.
And finally …
*) Biden's rescue pet returns to White House after more training for life as a first dog
US President Joe Biden's pet dog Major is back to the White House after an incident prompted a round of training to help acclimate him to life as a first dog.
"Champ and Major are here at the White House," said White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki referring to the president's two German Shepherds.
The president adopted Major from the Delaware Humane Society in 2018 after serving as vice president under former president Barack Obama.
*) Exit polls indicate no clear winner in Israeli election
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may have to struggle again to form a coalition after the fourth election in the country in two years.
Exit polls indicated Netanyahu and his religious and nationalist allies fell short of the parliamentary majority required to form a new government.
That raised the possibility of an unprecedented fifth consecutive election later this year.
But the result may still be significant for Netanyahu, who's facing corruption charges.
*) Ethiopia’s leader admits rape, looting committed in Tigray war
Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has acknowledged for the first time that rape and looting were committed in the Tigray region war.
He also admitted that troops from neighbouring Eritrea were involved in the conflict in the Tigray region as concerns grow over a humanitarian crisis.
The prime minister's admission comes after months of denial from Addis Ababa and Asmara.
*) Sri Lanka rejects UN scrutiny over crimes against Tamils during civil war
Sri Lanka has rejected a United Nations’ move to preserve evidence of war crimes in the country.
Sri Lanka’s foreign minister said the money allocated for the effort would be better spent on housing for the poor.
The resolution adopted by the UN Human Rights Council called for a $2.8 million budget to collect and preserve evidence of war crimes for future prosecutions.
*) Biden urges action on gun control after Colorado mass shooting
US President Joe Biden has called on lawmakers to pass stricter gun control laws after the Colorado mass shooting.
Biden’s two-month-old administration faces increased pressure to fulfil promises on gun regulation.
Any effort to move the US toward greater gun control has historically been difficult with his fellow Democrats in favour and Republicans largely opposed.
And finally …
*) Banksy painting sells for $23 million at charity auction in UK
A Banksy painting portraying nurses as superheroes has raised millions of dollars for British health charities.
The artwork called Game Changer sold at an auction on Tuesday for $19.85 million dollars.
It's the highest price ever for a Banksy painting.
*) Saudi Arabia offers ceasefire plan to Yemen rebels
Saudi Arabia has proposed a ceasefire to end Yemen's devastating war, including the reopening of air and sea links.
The Houthi rebels say Saudi Arabia's new peace plan does not meet their precondition on lifting the blockade on Sanaa airport and Hudaida port.
The Saudi-led coalition entered Yemen's civil war in 2015 to defeat the Houthi rebels in their fight with the country’s government.
War monitors say the conflict has killed some 130,000 people, with tens of thousands dying of disease and starvation.
*) Scores killed in second militant attack in southwest Niger this week
At least 137 people have been killed in the deadliest violence to strike Niger in recent memory after gunmen ambushed villages near the Mali border.
The violence comes amid a dangerous escalation in attacks after the election of Niger's new president, Mohamed Bazoum, several weeks ago.
He is due to take office on April 2nd amid a rapidly deteriorating situation in Niger, long destabilised by militants in neighbouring Mali.
*) Multiple dead in Colorado supermarket shooting
In the United States, a gunman has killed at least 10 people, including a police officer, at a grocery store in Colorado.
Police officials confirmed that one injured suspect is in custody, and is being provided with medical treatment.
The motive of the attack is still being investigated.
*) Polls open in fourth Israeli election in two years
Israel has begun voting in its fourth election in less than two years, with the nation still divided over whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deserves to remain in office.
Polling stations are open across Israel and in the occupied West Bank.
Some 6.5 million registered voters are set to deliver a result that could prolong the worst period of political gridlock in the country's history.
And finally …
*) Istanbul stray dogs get own starring roles in new documentary
Stray dogs from Turkey’s city of Istanbul are set to feature in a documentary called "Stray".
The documentary’s Hong Kong-born director Elizabeth Lo says she has been fascinated with a 2004 law in Turkey that protects stray animals from cruelty.
The feature depicts the life of dogs in Istanbul through the eyes of three pups who roam its streets searching for food and bonding with humans.
*) New South Wales braced for more flooding, rains
Australian authorities will evacuate thousands of people from flood-affected suburbs in Sydney's west, which is set for its worst flooding in 60 years.
Around 18,000 people had been evacuated from flooding in New South Wales by Monday.
Emergency services fear up to 54,000 people could be displaced with rain forecast to continue until Wednesday.
*) Myanmar activists plan new protests after weekend bloodshed
Myanmar activists plan fresh protests despite reports of security forces killing more people at anti-coup demonstrations over the weekend.
The plan includes a call for vehicle convoys to drive through intersections honking horns with occupants raising three-finger anti-coup salutes.
The nation has been locked in crisis since the elected government was overthrown by the military.
*) Canadian Kovrig's trial on espionage charges begins in China
The trial of Michael Kovrig, who has been held in China for more than two years on espionage charges, is under way in Beijing.
China arrested Kovrig and fellow Canadian Michael Spavor in December 2018, soon after Canadian police detained Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies.
Beijing insists the detentions are not linked to the detention of Meng, who remains under house arrest in Vancouver.
*) India sees worst Covid-19 cases and deaths in months
India reported its most Covid-19 cases and deaths in months on Monday, on the first anniversary of a chaotic nationwide lockdown.
Indian authorities reintroduced some curbs to slow the spread of the virus as it recorded 46,951 new infections and 212 deaths.
India's total cases surpassed 11.65 million, the highest in the world after the United States and Brazil.
And finally …
*) Ravers feel the music at socially distanced silent disco in Barcelona
Barcelona has found a way to get around Covid-19 curbs on clubs by holding outdoor silent raves in some of the city’s best-known locations.
On Sunday, people welcomed the first day of spring by putting on their headphones and busting some moves at Mar Bella beach along Barcelona’s famous seafront.
What started off as a fun meet-up between friends has grown into a regular Sunday morning event, the Tribu Silent Disco.
*) US, Russia ties hit new low as Putin mocks Biden over ‘killer’ comment
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that US President Joe Biden’s remarks about him reflect the United States' own past and current problems.
Putin’s statement came a day after Biden was asked in an interview whether he thought Russian President is a killer and he said, “I do.”
Putin pointed at the US atomic bombing of Japan and its past history of slaughtering Native Americans, arguing that the painful legacies weigh on the United States.
*) US, China spar in first face-to-face meeting under Biden
Top Chinese and US diplomats have clashed at the start of the first, high-level, in-person talks between the Biden Administration and Beijing.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said China's actions threaten the rules-based order that maintains global stability.
While China said Washington uses its military force to suppress other countries.
The bilateral talks continue in the US state of Alaska.
*) EU countries to resume using AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine
Several European nations, including Germany and France, will resume using the AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine.
That's after investigations by the World Health Organization and the European Medicines Agency concluded the shot is safe and effective.
Countries around the world had suspended use of the vaccine after some people who'd received it reported experiencing blood clots.
*) Myanmar junta tightens grip, builds bribery case against ousted Suu Kyi
Myanmar's ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi has faced fresh corruption charges from the ruling junta.
Suu Kyi’s lawyer has dismissed the charges as "groundless" but the allegations could ensure she would never be able to return to politics.
Scores of people have died in protests calling for the Myanmar military to reinstate the civilian rule following the February 1 coup.
And finally …
*) Climate change could cut 63 countries' credit ratings by 2030 – study
A new study by a group of UK universities has predicted that 63 countries could see their credit ratings cut because of climate change by 2030.
Researchers looked at a "realistic scenario" known as RCP 8.5, where carbon and other polluting emissions continue rising in coming decades.
The hardest-hit countries included China, Chile, Malaysia, and Mexico which could see six notches of downgrades by the end of the century.
*) Blinken: US considering pressure, diplomatic options on North Korea
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says both pressure and diplomatic options are on the table for dealing with North Korea on the issue of denuclearisation.
Blinken was speaking after a meeting with his South Korean counterpart in his debut trip to Asia as US secretary of state.
North Korea, on the other hand, says it will ignore a US offer for talks unless it withdraws its hostile policy.
*) Nine dead in Afghan military helicopter crash
Nine Afghan security force members have been killed in a helicopter crash in central Afghanistan.
An air force source and a provincial official said that the helicopter was hit by a rocket while taking off.
In a separate incident, three people were killed and 11 wounded after a roadside bomb targeted a bus carrying Afghan government employees in Kabul.
*) UN says Covid-19 likely to become 'seasonal' disease
Covid-19 appears likely to develop into a seasonal disease, the UN has said, cautioning against relaxing pandemic measures simply based on meteorological factors.
In its first report, an expert team examined potential meteorological and air quality influences on the spread of Covid-19.
Modelling studies anticipate that transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, "may become seasonal over time".
*) Tanzanian president dies of heart failure, aged 61
Tanzania's president John Magufuli (John Magu-fuli) has died, aged 61, following weeks of speculation about his health and whereabouts.
Magufuli (Magu-fuli) hadn't been seen in public for over two weeks.
State media made the announcement, saying he died of heart failure to counter speculations that he might have contracted the coronavirus.
And finally …
*) Covid-19 reinfection rare but more common in older people – study
A new study says that the majority of people who have had Covid-19 are protected from reinfection for at least six months.
But elderly people are more prone to reinfection than younger people. That's according to a new study in The Lancet medical journal.
The study found that people over the age of 65 had only 47 percent protection against repeat infection, compared with 80 percent protection for younger people.
*) UN says at least 149 people have been killed
The United Nations says at least 149 people have been killed in Myanmar since the military coup last month, with some groups giving a higher toll of at least 180.
During a briefing in Geneva, the UN human rights spokesperson called on the military to stop killing and detaining protesters.
Myanmar's security forces have used live ammunition at protests where thousands of people have been calling for the reinstatement of civilian leadership.
*) US police arrest suspect in series of massage parlour shootings
A 21-year-old man has been arrested after shootings at three massage parlours in the US state of Georgia left at least eight people dead.
Robert Aaron Long was arrested in the south of Atlanta just hours after the attack.
Four of the victims were killed at Young's Asian Massage while four women were found dead at the Gold Massage Spa and Aroma Therapy spa.
*) UN warns of 'dramatic' deterioration in Yemen conflict
The United Nations has warned that Yemen is speeding toward famine with a dramatic escalation in the ongoing conflict.
UN officials say the Houthi rebels' offensive on Marib province is displacing and putting even more civilians at risk.
The conflict in Yemen has resulted in one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.
*) France's Sarkozy on trial again after graft conviction
Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy is set to go on trial over claims of illicit financing for his failed 2012 re-election bid.
This comes just two weeks after a landmark conviction against the 66-year-old for corruption.
Sarkozy has denied any wrongdoing, saying he is the victim of a vindictive judicial system that he confronted while in power between 2007 and 2012.
And finally …
*) Uber to give UK drivers worker rights after court defeat
Uber has announced that more than 70,000 of its drivers in the UK will be granted employee status.
The move comes after the Britain's Supreme Court upheld a ruling last month that drivers of the app should be classified as workers and not independent contractors.
Uber says its drivers will now have access to paid vacation and a pension scheme and that they will earn no less than the minimum wage.
*) Death toll in weeks of Myanmar protests passes 180
More than 180 people have been killed by Myanmar security forces in weeks of protests against the military coup.
At least 20 people were killed on Monday, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners said.
On Sunday, 74 people were killed in the bloodiest single day so far.
Demonstrators are calling for the release of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, whose court hearing has been postponed until later this month.
*) Top US diplomat Blinken makes overseas debut with visit to Japan, Korea
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for deeper economic ties with Japan as he and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin use their first trip abroad to solidify Asian alliances against China and North Korea.
Their visit to Tokyo follows a virtual summit of leaders of the United States, Japan, Australia and India.
The trip comes at a time when the region is facing mounting pressure from China and threats from North Korea's ballistic missile programmes.
*) WHO vaccine experts to meet on AstraZeneca vaccine concerns
WHO safety experts are expected to meet and discuss concerns over AstraZeneca's coronavirus vaccine as the jabs get halted in several countries over blood clot fears.
Germany, Italy and France joined others in suspending the shot on Monday, dealing a blow to global immunisation as infection rates surge.
The WHO, European Medicines Agency and AstraZeneca insist the shot is safe and that there is no link between the vaccine and reported blood clots.
*) Covid-19 'most discriminatory crisis' for women
The head of UN Women has called the Covid-19 pandemic “the most discriminatory crisis” that women and girls have ever experienced.
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka [Pumzeelay Mlambo-Ng-cuka] pointed to women losing jobs far more often than men, rising domestic violence, and more women being pushed into living on less than $1.90 dollars a day this year.
She said the WHO’s latest report shows the highest rates of intimate partner violence in the past 12 months.
And finally…
*) Messi equals Xavi's Barcelona appearance record
Lionel Messi scored a spectacular double the same night he equalled Xavi Hernandez's appearance record for Barcelona.
The Argentinian inspired Barca's 4-1 victory over La Liga basement club Huesca on Monday.
Messi has now tied Xavi's 767 games in all competitions for Barca.
*) Martial law imposed in parts of Myanmar city after deadly day
Myanmar's ruling junta has declared martial law in two densely populated townships of Yangon city.
This comes after security forces killed at least 38 demonstrators on Sunday, the deadliest day of unrest since the military coup on February first.
Ousted elected leaders are calling for united resistance to the military regime.
*) Syria's brutal war enters its 11th year
Syria is marking ten years since the start of a civil war in which over 500-thousand people have lost their lives.
The war started with a local uprising on March 15, 2011 in the southern province of Daraa, mostly driven by students.
But Bashar al Assad's violent crackdown on the movement soon turned into full scale war, displacing more than 12 million Syrians.
*) Netherlands halts use of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine
Dutch health officials have suspended the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine for two weeks after several European countries reported "possible side effects".
More than 10 other countries, including Thailand and Denmark, suspended their rollouts of the AstraZeneca jabs over concerns about blood clots.
But AstraZeneca says its vaccine is safe and UK and EU drug regulators say the coagulation issue is unrelated.
*) Women across Australia march against sexual violence and inequality
Thousands of women are marching across Australia against gender-based violence in the country.
The women are calling for sweeping action and an investigation into several sexual assault allegations in Australian politics.
Organisers of the rally have rejected the offer of a "closed-door" meeting with Prime Minister Scott Morrison.
And finally…
*) Beyonce breaks record for most Grammy wins by female artist
The 2021 Grammys have proved girls "run the world" with Queen B making history by becoming the most awarded singer and female artists bagging a range of top awards.
Beyonce also became the most awarded female artist after her fourth win on Sunday night notched her 28 golden gramophones.
Taylor Swift won her third album of the year for “Folklore” and Billie Eilish took home record of the year for “Everything I wanted”.
"I Can't Breathe" by R&B artist HER won song of the year. It was written in response to Black Lives Matter protests in the US last summer.
Biden sets May 1st target to make all adults eligible for Covid-19 shots, and Beeple sells digital artwork for nearly $70M
NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, March 12th.
*) Biden aims to make vaccine accessible to all adults by May 1
US President Joe Biden says that all adult Americans will be eligible to get a Covid-19 vaccine by May 1.
Biden made the announcement as he signed into law a $1.9 trillion dollar relief package that he said will help defeat the virus.
The US has been the worst-affected country by the pandemic with close to 30 million infections and more than 543,000 deaths.
*) Myanmar junta kills more protesters, adds Suu Kyi accusation
Anti-coup protesters are on the streets in Myanmar once again, despite deadly violence a day earlier where 12 protesters were reportedly shot dead by security forces.
The Southeast Asian country has been roiled by protests since last month’s coup toppled elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s government.
The UN has warned the junta is likely committing "crimes against humanity" in its attempt to stay in power with more than 60 people killed in crackdowns.
*) Denmark, Norway, Iceland halt AstraZeneca jab despite EU safety assurance
Denmark, Norway and Iceland have temporarily suspended the use of AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine over concerns of blood clots in receiving patients.
UK and EU drug regulators have said the blood clotting is unrelated to the vaccine and falls within normal population rates.
As of March 9, 22 cases of blood clots were reported among over 3 million people vaccinated in the European Economic Area.
*) Pakistan to block TikTok over indecency complaint
Pakistan will block the popular social media app TikTok after a court order over a complaint that it runs indecent content.
A TikTok representative in the country says strong safeguards were in place to keep inappropriate content off the platform.
TikTok has been one of the most-downloaded apps in the South Asian nation after WhatsApp and Facebook.
And finally…
*) Artist Beeple sells digital artwork for nearly $70M
A digital collage by American artist Beeple sells for a record $69.3 million dollars at Christie's auctioneers.
The piece, titled “Everydays: The First 5,000 Days," is now the most expensive ever non-fungible token or NFT.
The sale of the work put Beeple in the top three most valuable living artists, tweets Christie's.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, March 11th.
*) Amnesty International says Myanmar army uses battle tactics against protests
We start in Myanmar, where Amnesty International says the military has been using battlefield weapons and lethal force against anti-coup protesters.
The rights group says it verified over 50 videos from the crackdown and that many of the documented killings amounted to extrajudicial executions.
Amnesty has also accused army units equipped with battlefield weapons of involvement in atrocities against Rohingya Muslims.
*) Japan mourns victims of 2011 earthquake, nuclear disaster
Japan is marking 10 years of the Fukushima disaster in which a powerful earthquake and deadly tsunami pummelled a nuclear plant.
The disaster killed nearly 20,000 people. Over 160,000 residents had to flee to escape radiation.
A minute's silence was observed across the country at 2:46 pm, the precise moment a 9.0 magnitude quake hit off the northeast coast on March 11, 2011.
*) Dozens killed in Indonesia after bus falls into ravine
In Indonesia, a tourist bus has plunged into a ravine on the main island of Java, killing at least 27 people and injuring 39 others.
The bus carrying 66 passengers was returning to the town of Subang from a pilgrimage site in West Java.
Police are still investigating the cause of the accident but survivors say the vehicle's brakes had apparently malfunctioned.
*) Thousands of nurses dead since WHO declared coronavirus a pandemic
At least 3,000 nurses have been killed by Covid-19 so far, according to the global nurses' federation report.
It comes as the world marks a year of the WHO declaration of the coronavirus as a pandemic.
Nurses federations warn of an impending exodus of health workers who have been traumatised by the pandemic.
And finally…
*) Hundreds of thousands take a holy dip in India
Tens of thousands of Hindu devotees have gathered for Kumbh Mela in northern India despite coronavirus restrictions.
The government has limited the gathering and made negative Covid-19 test certificates compulsory.
Hindus believe bathing in the Ganges river will cleanse their sins and bring them salvation.
*) Myanmar forces raid compound of protesting rail workers
In Myanmar, security forces have raided a compound of railway workers on strike against the military junta.
The railway staff in Yangon are part of a civil disobedience movement that has disrupted public services.
Myanmar has been experiencing strikes and deadly protests since the military coup replaced Aung San Suu Kyi in February.
*) Biden to meet allies in first 'Quad' summit
US President Joe Biden will hold the first-ever joint talks with the leaders of Australia, India and Japan, boosting a four-way alliance tipped to rival China.
This will be one of Biden's first summits. The president vowed to revive US alliances in the wake of Donald Trump's divisive policies.
The meeting of the so-called "Quad" comes amid rising tensions between US and China.
*) UAE in world's top 10 tax havens
The UAE is in the world's top ten tax havens for the first time.
A new report says OECD nations account for more than two-thirds of "global corporate tax abuse."
According to the Tax Justice Network, UAE rose in the rankings after multinationals in South Africa and the US routed $218 billion in funds to the gulf monarchy.
*) China launches Covid-19 passport system for travel
China has launched a system of virus passports to kickstart international travel.
Chinese citizens can download and use the certificates to enter and exit the country.
It is unclear how China’s scheme would work internationally as it is not mandatory and is only available for Chinese citizens.
And finally…
*) Bangladesh TV hires country's first transgender news anchor
In Bangladesh, a television station has hired the country’s first transgender news anchor.
Tashnuva Anan Shishir, who previously worked as a rights activist and actor, debuted on Boishakhi TV on International Women’s Day.
It was an emotional moment for Shishir, who cried after reading the three-minute news bulletin amid applause from her colleagues.
Myanmar’s anti-coup demonstrators hold overnight protests in defiance of curfew and International Women’s Day marked with rallies around the world
*) Myanmar protesters defy curfew to support trapped students
Anti-coup demonstrators in Myanmar’s biggest city Yangon have held their first overnight mass protest in defiance of an 8 pm curfew.
The incident-free protest was in support of an estimated 200 students trapped by security forces in a neighbourhood.
The country has been in turmoil since the February coup triggered mass protests against the military junta, which has responded with an intensifying and violent crackdown.
*) Death toll from accidental explosions in Equatorial Guinea rises
The death toll from a series of blasts at a military camp in Equatorial Guinea has risen to 98, with hundreds wounded.
Blamed on negligence, the blasts devastated buildings at the military compound and houses in surrounding residential areas.
The incident comes as the country, an oil producer, is suffering a double economic shock due to Covid-19 and a drop in the price of crude oil.
*) Brazil judge clears ex-leader Lula to run again in 2022
The Brazil Supreme Court has overturned graft convictions against former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
The move could allow the popular politician to run in the 2022 presidential election.
Lula was convicted of corruption in 2018. He was released the following year but was still barred from office.
*) UN urges Yemen’s Houthis to allow access to injured migrants
The UN migration agency has urged Yemen’s Houthi rebels to allow access to refugees and asylum-seekers injured in a fire at a detention centre in the capital.
The blaze killed at least eight people and injured more than 170 migrants, 90 of whom were in critical condition.
The centre held around 900 migrants and is run by the Houthi rebels who have controlled Sanaa since the start of Yemen’s conflict in 2014.
And finally…
*) Thousands take to streets on Women’s Day
Women across the world marked International Women's Day 2021 to denounce gender violence and inequalities.
Though marches took place in many countries despite pandemic restrictions, the Women's Day events were more subdued.
People all over the world were asked to "put their hand up" and show they will choose to challenge, [#ChooseToChallenge] a hashtag that was quick to trend on social media.
*) Unions in Myanmar set for strikes against junta
Anti-coup protesters have gathered across Myanmar, answering a trade union call for a strike following a weekend of night raids and arrests
The country has been in turmoil since February's military coup ousted elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, triggering mass protests against the junta.
The police and military have responded with an increasingly brutal crackdown, with more than 50 people killed and nearly 1,800 arrested.
*) Swiss voters narrowly back ban on full-face veils in public
Swiss voters have narrowly approved a proposal to ban face coverings, both the niqabs and burqas in public.
Official results show 51.2 percent of voters, and a clear majority of federal Switzerland's cantons, supported the proposal.
The decision has been hailed by supporters as a move against extremists but branded sexist and racist by opponents.
*) EU regulator urges caution on Sputnik V vaccine
A senior European Medicines Agency official urges EU members to refrain from granting national approvals for Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine.
EMA managing board head Christa Wirthumer-Hoche said there is no data on the Russian-made shot about vaccinated people.
She also warned Sputnik V has not been reviewed according to EU standards for quality, safety and efficacy.
*) Meghan and Harry open up about royal hostility in Oprah interview
Meghan and Prince Harry have opened up about walking away from royal life in an explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Meghan Markle accused the British royal family of racism, lying and pushing her to the brink of suicide.
Her husband Prince Harry said felt "really let down" by his family over the situation.
And finally…
*) International Women’s day
Marches to mark International Women’s Day have kicked off in countries across Asia, with rallies in Japan, China, Thailand. Indonesia and India.
UN's day for women was first observed in 1975.
Events are expected to take place across the world amid the Covid-19 pandemic which is reversing gains women have made at the workplace and in their homes over the last decade.
*) Myanmar hit by new protests as junta's UN pick quits
People in Myanmar are out on the streets once again to join anti-coup demonstrations as military rulers face tussles over diplomatic loyalties overseas, the threat of a global arms embargo, and frozen US funds.
This comes a day after the US slapped more sanctions on the country. Myanmar saw its worst violence since last month's coup after security forces killed at least 38 people on Wednesday.
But it hasn't stopped thousands continuing to rally – calling for a return to democracy.
*) Large quakes spark Pacific-wide tsunami threats
Authorities in New Zealand have lifted tsunami evacuation orders triggered by multiple Pacific quakes in the northeast.
The National Emergency Management Agency says everyone who evacuated can now return to their homes.
Earlier, thousands of people on the east coast of North Island were evacuated to higher ground.
*) China boosts 2021 defence spending by 6.8%
China has increased its defence spending by 6.8 percent, amid high government debt and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
A national budget report issued on Friday said China will spend $210 billion on national defence in the coming year.
That's up from the 6.6 percent increase last year to $180 billion, the lowest percentage increase in at least two decades.
*) Pope Francis embarks on four-day visit to Iraq
Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Iraq on Friday. It will be the first visit by a head of the Roman Catholic Church to one of the oldest Christian communities in the world.
It's also the Pontiff's first trip abroad since the pandemic started.
The March 5-8 trip is expected to provide a spiritual boost to Iraq’s Christians while furthering the Vatican’s bridge-building efforts with the Muslim world.
And finally…
*) Banksy takes credit for prison artwork
Street artist Banksy has claimed responsibility for a painting on the wall of a former British prison that once held playwright Oscar Wilde.
The artwork shows a prisoner escaping on a rope made of bedsheets tied to a typewriter.
The elusive artist confirmed he was responsible in a video posted on his Instagram account.
The footage shows the artist carrying out the painting, and parodies the cult instructional videos of late US artist Bob Ross.
*) Protests continue in Myanmar after bloodiest day since coup
Protestors remain defiant in Myanmar a day after the deadliest police crackdown since the coup.
Security forces have killed dozens of pro-democracy protesters weeks after a military coup in the country. Those on the streets are demanding the restoration of their democratically-elected leaders.
Meanwhile, Aung San Suu Kyi remains in detention and ousted president Win Myint is facing new charges.
*) Australia PM rejects calls for probe into Porter rape allegation
Australia's attorney-general Christian Porter is accused of raping a 16 year-old-girl in 1988.
The woman died by suicide last year after she went to the police who closed their investigation into the matter.
The 50-year old former prosecutor denied the allegation and said he would not be standing down from Cabinet.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has expressed support for his attorney-general.
*) US House approves 'George Floyd' police reform bill
The US House of Representatives have passed a bill banning controversial police tactics and easing the way for lawsuits against officers violating suspects' constitutional rights.
Democrats pushed the "George Floyd Justice in Policing Act" through the House with 220 votes, with the support of only one Republican.
The shocking killing was caught on video and sparked mass protests across the nation in the midst of the 2020 election.
The act cleared the House last year but was blocked in the Republican-led Senate.
*) Pakistan PM Khan to seek vote of confidence after election setback
Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will seek a vote of confidence in parliament after the government's finance minister lost a Senate bid.
Local media reports suggested the ruling PTI and its allies gained ground in Senate, possibly enough for a majority.
However, an election official announced Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost the seat he was contesting.
And finally…
*) SpaceX Starship blows up after test flight landing
SpaceX's latest Starship prototype rocket exploded just minutes after landing in Texas.
It was the third such attempt by US business magnate Elon Musk's rocket destined for the moon and Mars.
The rocket reached its target altitude of 10 kilometres. It demonstrated a few complex manoeuvres mid-air, made a soft touchdown moments before it became consumed in a fireball.
The reason for the explosion is still unknown.
*) Envoy, junta make rival claims over Myanmar's UN seat
Myanmar's military junta and the envoy have launched contradictory claims over who represents the country at the United Nations.
Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun broke with the junta before the General Assembly on Friday in an emotional plea for help to restore ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The next day, the junta said the envoy had been sacked, but on Monday, Kyaw Moe Tun sent a letter to the president of the UN General Assembly to say that he still holds the post.
*) Saudi Arabia makes Covid-19 vaccine mandatory for Hajj
Saudi Arabia's health ministry has ruled that only vaccinated people will be allowed to attend the Hajj this year, Saudi newspaper Okaz reported.
Riyadh stakes its reputation on its guardianship of Islam’s holiest sites in Mecca and Medina and its peaceful organisation of the Hajj.
In 2020, the kingdom reduced the number of pilgrims to around 1,000 to prevent the spread of the virus, after barring Muslims abroad from the rite for the first time in modern times.
*) UN envoy says Turkey cannot shoulder Syria's tragedy alone
The international community cannot leave the Syria tragedy on Turkey's shoulders, Turkey's UN envoy Feridun Sinirlioglu has said.
The Syrian war is nearing its 10th anniversary, on March 15th.
With 5 million Syrians living on its borders, Turkey is protecting 9 million Syrians in total, the UN envoy said.
*) China to focus on tech autonomy at this year's Congress
Chinese leaders have been shifting focus from the coronavirus back to long-term goals of making China a technology leader at this year's highest-profile political event.
The ruling Communist Party will use the National People's Congress,a gathering of 3,000-plus delegates, to showcase economic and social plans.
In October, party leaders declared that making China a self-reliant "technology power" is this year's economic priority.
And finally…
*) Japan billionaire offers eight free seats to Moon trip
Japanese billionaire is throwing open a private lunar expedition to eight people from around the world.
Online fashion tycoon Yusaku Maezawa in 2018 became the first man to book a spot aboard the lunar spaceship being developed by SpaceX.
On Wednesday, he revealed on Twitter he was not planning to go alone.
"I'm inviting you to join me on this mission. Eight of you from all around the world," he said.
*) Kidnappers release all schoolgirls abducted from Nigeria's Zamfara
All 279 Nigerian students kidnapped from their boarding school in Zamfara state have been released.
Authorities initially said 317 girls were abducted by hundreds of gunmen from the school in remote Jangebe village on Friday.
But Zafara Governor Dr Bello Matawalle confirmed that the total number of female students abducted and released is 279.
*) US urges Saudi Arabia to disband force behind Khashoggi killing
The US State Department has urged Saudi Arabia to disband an elite unit that Washington sanctioned over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
A declassified US report concluded Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman approved the killing of Khashoggi. However, the US has not sanctioned him.
The Biden administration is trying to tip the balance of power towards Washington in its ties with the kingdom, a longtime US beneficiary and benefactor.
*) WHO says world won’t vanquish virus this year
The World Health Organization has warned that it is unrealistic to think the world will be done with Covid-19 pandemic by the end of this year.
The coronavirus pandemic has killed over 2.5 million people and infected 115 million globally.
Meanwhile, Turkey has lifted weekend lockdowns in low-and medium-risk cities.
*) Armenia PM says ready for early elections
Armenia’s embattled Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan says he is ready to hold early elections to end the country's political crisis.
Pashinyan has been under fire for his handling of last year’s disastrous war with Azerbaijan, facing calls for his resignation by the military's top brass.
With Pashinyan accusing the military of an attempted coup, political uncertainty is threatening to set off a power struggle in the ex-Soviet republic.
And finally…
*) Police search Barcelona clubs offices, make several arrests
Spain's police have raided the offices of football club Barcelona and arrested several people, six days after the club’s presidential elections.
Local media said one of those arrested was former club president Josep Maria Bartomeu.
The raids were reportedly carried out in connection with last year’s “Barcagate” that saw a smear campaign against club players and officials.
*) More deaths in Myanmar as police disperse protestors
We start in Myanmar, where protests against the February 1 coup continue in defiance of a crackdown by security forces that killed at least 18 people on Sunday.
The latest use of force on protesters has been the bloodiest action so far following the ouster of Aung San Suu Kyi last month.
International condemnation of the coup has been fierce and calls for an international response continues to grow as violence escalates.
*) Trump calls for GOP unity, hints at run for 2024 election
In the US, former President Donald Trump has called for unity in the Republican Party.
Speaking at a conservative political conference, the former US president took the stage for the first time since leaving office.
He hinted at another run for the White House in 2024 and repeated false claims that the Democrats stole the 2020 election.
*) Deadly twin explosions strike Somali capital
At least three people were killed as two explosions rocked Somalia’s capital Mogadishu within a span of a few hours on Sunday.
Police said a roadside bomb targeted a deputy army commander who remained unhurt but three others were killed and several others wounded.
A second explosion a few hours later targeted another local official but there were no injuries reported.
*) Dozens of Hong Kong activists detained on charges of subversion
Dozens of Hong Kong activists charged with conspiracy to commit subversion are appearing in court for their hearing.
Forty-seven people have been charged under the new national security law imposed on the semi-autonomous territory by mainland China.
The activists are accused of organising and participating in an unofficial primary poll last year which authorities call a plot to “overthrow the government”.
And finally…
*) ‘The Crown’, ‘Schitt’s Creek’ win top honours at Golden Globes
A very socially distanced 78th Golden Globe Awards ceremony was held in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and a continued furore over diversity.
Drama "Nomadland" and satire "Borat Subsequent Moviefilm" won big for movies in the bicoastal ceremony.
The much-binged Netflix British royal drama "The Crown'' led the television honours along with Canadian "Schitt's Creek".
*) US bombs Iranian militia facilities in Syria
The US Air Force has bombed facilities run by Iranian-backed militant groups in Syria.
The Pentagon said the strikes were in retaliation for a rocket attack against US forces in Iraq earlier this month.
This was the first military action undertaken by the Biden administration.
*) Armenian PM in stand-off with military
Armenia's prime minister is in a stand-off with his country's military, accusing the Armed Forces of an attempted coup.
On Thursday, the army chief called on Nikol Pashinyan to resign.
The PM responded by firing the commander and calling his own supporters onto the streets of capital Yerevan.
The political turmoil is a result of Armenia's defeat against Azerbaijan in last year's war in Nagorno-Karabakh.
*) Pakistan, India agree to ceasefire along Kashmir border
India and Pakistan have agreed to observe a ceasefire along the disputed border of Kashmir.
In a joint statement, the military chiefs of the countries have agreed to calm tensions in the Himalayan region.
The Line of Control has witnessed increased military exchanges in recent months.
*) Former US Olympics gymnastics coach kills himself after being charged
Former US Olympics women's gymnastics coach John Geddert committed suicide hours after he was charged with human trafficking and abuse of athletes in his care.
Geddert owned an elite training facility in Michigan, where convicted sex offender Larry Nassar served as the gym doctor.
He faced 24 charges that could have carried years in prison had he been convicted.
And finally…
*) Gorilla and two lions test positive for Covid-19 in Prague
A gorilla and two lions have tested positive for Covid-19 at the Prague Zoo in the Czech Republic.
Zoo director Miroslav Bobek says the lions have a cold and cough and the gorilla is tired and has no appetite.
He added that the animals were mostly likely infected by staff, and other animals will now be tested.
*) New coronavirus variant identified in New York City
A new coronavirus variant has been discovered in New York City.
Columbia University researchers say it shares some similarities with the more transmissible South African variant.
It was first identified in samples collected in New York in November, and by mid-February represented about 12% of cases
*) Australia passes law to make tech giants pay for news
Australia has passed a law requiring social media platforms to pay media outlets for the content they generate.
US tech giants Facebook and Google have objected to the law.
Google is already making deals with local news companies, while Facebook has resumed talks with the lawmakers.
Britain and Canada say they are planning similar laws.
*) Myanmar junta in talks with Thailand, Indonesia
Talks with Myanmar's junta-appointed foreign minister resume in Thailand's Bangkok.
Indonesia is leading regional efforts to broker an end to three weeks of deadly unrest triggered by a military coup.
It comes as the international community ramps up pressure on the junta to cede its power back to the democratically-elected government.
*) US designer Alexander Wang faces new sexual assault allegation
A New York fashion student has become the latest person to accuse US designer Alexander Wang of sexual assault.
Keaton Bullen told the BBC that Wang assaulted him at a nightclub in August 2019.
Lawyer Lisa Blooms says she represents 11 men who claim to be victims of the designer.
Some of her clients are considering pursuing charges while others, civil claims.
And finally…
*) Holloway breaks world indoor record for 60-metre hurdles
US athlete Grant Holloway has broken the world record for indoor 60-metre sprint hurdles that had stood for 27 years.
He clocked 7.29 seconds and took 0.01 second off the previous record set by Colin Jackson in 1994.
Holloway's win at the event in Madrid secured him overall victory in the World Athletics Indoor Tour.
Tiger Woods seriously injured in car crash, and UNSC told climate change is a real threat to global security
*) Tiger Woods seriously injured in crash on steep LA-area road
World golf legend Tiger Woods has suffered multiple leg injuries and underwent surgery after a car crash.
Woods had to be cut from the wreckage by firefighters after his SUV rolled over on a steep Los Angeles road known for accidents.
No other vehicles were involved in the crash.
*) Gang riots in Ecuador prisons kill at least 62
At least 67 prisoners have died during riots at three facilities in Ecuador.
800 police officers, including tactical units, have been deployed to regain control of the prisons.
Authorities say the riots were a result of fights between rival gangs and an escape attempt.
*) Vaccine makers tell Congress US supply will surge soon
Covid-19 vaccine makers told US Congress that supplies will soon begin to surge due to an expansion in manufacturing.
Executives from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson said they will be able to supply enough vaccines to fully inoculate 130 million people in the US by the end of March.
The drugmakers also reaffirmed their commitments to supply more than enough doses necessary to vaccinate all Americans by the end of July. *) Cliff-top cemetery collapses in Italy
A cliff-top cemetery in the Italian Riviera has collapsed sending 200 coffins into the sea.
Eleven caskets were pulled out during recovery operations.
Authorities say it may take some time to find all the coffins as parts of the cliff surrounding the landslide are still unstable.
And finally…
*) UNSC told climate change is a threat to global security
British naturalist Sir David Attenborough has warned that climate change is the biggest security threat ever faced by the human race.
Addressing the UN Security Council, Attenborough said it was time for world leaders to match their words with actions.
The warning comes ahead of November's COP26 climate summit which will serve as a deadline for countries to renew their commitment to deeper emission cuts.
US Covid-19 deaths top 500,000 mark, and NASA releases audio recordings from Mars
*) Covid-19 deaths in the US top 500,000 mark
The US has passed the grim milestone of 500,000 coronavirus-related deaths and is also nearing 29 million infections.
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris held a moment of silence at the White House to remember the victims.
Biden also ordered the US flag there to be flown at half-staff and said it was a heartbreaking moment for the country.
*) EU warns of sanctions for military as protests continue
Anti-coup protesters in Myanmar gather for another day of demonstrations against the military junta.
It comes after the EU warns that army-owned companies and generals may face tough sanctions after the military coup.
On Monday, the US sanctioned two more military officials.
*) El Chapo’s wife arrested in US
The wife of Mexican drug lord Joaquin ‘El Chapo' Guzman has been arrested at Washington DC's main airport on international drug trafficking charges.
The US Department of Justice says Emma Aispuro was taken into custody for participating in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine, meth, heroin and marijuana for importation into the US.
She's also accused of helping her husband escape from a Mexican prison in 2015.
*) Dozens of Boeing 777 planes grounded after engine failure issue
US aircraft manufacturer Boeing is recommending grounding all 777-model planes with the same type of engine that experienced failure over Denver on Saturday.
It says operations should be suspended until further inspections are carried out.
United Airlines and Japan's two main carriers have already stopped using planes with the same engine.
And finally…
*) NASA releases audio recordings from Mars
NASA scientists reveal first audio recordings from Mars, recorded by the Perseverance rover.
The rover landed on the Red Planet last week on a mission to find signs of life.
The recording was of a gust of wind.
Myanmar anti-coup protesters gather for mass strike in defiance of junta threat, and a prominent Greek theatre director has been arrested on rape charges
*) Myanmar gripped by strike as anti-coup protests build
Protesters have gathered in Myanmar’s biggest city despite the ruling junta’s veiled threat to use lethal force over the call for a general strike.
Three weeks after seizing power, the junta has failed to stop daily protests that are seeking a reversal of the coup and release of leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The ominous signs of potential conflict also drew attention outside Myanmar, with the US reiterating that it stood with the people of Myanmar.
*) Iran, IAEA thrash out 'temporary solution' ahead of deadline
The UN nuclear watchdog chief has announced a "temporary solution" to allow Iranian facility inspections to continue after days of talks with officials.
Under the temporary agreement, Tehran will for "three months record and keep the information of some activities and monitoring equipment", Iran's Atomic Energy Organization said.
US President Joe Biden, European powers and Tehran recently step up efforts to salvage the 2015 nuclear deal from which Donald Trump had withdrawn.
*) US aviation body orders extra inspections of some Boeing 777s
The US Federal Aviation Administration has ordered United Airlines to conduct extra inspections of some Boeing 777 passenger jets.
The announcements came a day after a United Airlines flight suffered catastrophic engine failure, scattering debris across a Colorado community.
Japan’s regulators also ordered Japan Airways and All Nippon Airways to stop operating a combined 32 aircraft with the same engine.
*) Violent attack as Niger's voters select a new president
At least seven poll workers were killed during Niger's presidential vote when their vehicle struck a landmine.
Three others were severely injured in the explosion which occurred in Gotheye village in the Tillaberi region in the country’s west.
The attack happened while polling was almost over in the second round of the country’s presidential elections.
And finally…
*) Prominent Greek theatre director arrested on rape charges
Greek police have detained a prominent theatre director on charges of rape, adding momentum to the "MeToo" movement shaking the country's arts establishment.
Dimitris Lignadis is reportedly accused of rape by two men who were minors when the events occurred in 2010 and 2015.
Lignadis has denied any wrongdoing and turned himself into police after a prosecutor issued an arrest warrant.
*) US ready to join talks on Iran nuclear deal
The US says it's ready to join talks with Iran to return to the 2015 nuclear deal.
The country’s State Department says it would accept an invitation to the EU-led meeting of the participants in the original agreement.
The US also began easing strict travel limits on Iranian diplomats in New York accredited to the UN.
*) Myanmar protests focus on junta's economic support
Nationwide anti-coup protests continue in Myanmar, with demonstrators focused on wearing down the army's economic support.
Daily calls for civil disobedience have resulted in a civil servants strike and the closure of all private banks.
Protesters want the international community to act with tough economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure.
*) Danger far from over as US freezes under deadly winter storms
Power has been restored to some US states hit by a deadly winter weather system that brought record-busting cold to the southern and central United States.
But the crisis is far from over as many in the South lack safe drinking water.
Over four dozen people have died from a week of historic winter storms. *) Rich nations stockpiling more Covid-19 shots than they need
A new report by advocacy group ONE campaign has found that wealthy countries will have over a billion more Covid-19 vaccines than they need, leaving poorer nations scrambling for leftovers.
The group says rich nations should share the excess doses to supercharge a global response to the pandemic.
A failure to do so would deny vaccinations to billions and would prolong the pandemic, it added.
And finally…
*) NASA's Perseverance rover successfully lands on Mars
NASA's Perseverance rover has successfully landed on Mars.
The rover is there to hunt for signs of life on the red planet.
Perseverance is a car-sized rover equipped with a helicopter drone among its high-tech instruments.
*) Millions without electricity as second icy storm moves across US
Texas, the energy capital of the US, is without power for a third day as large parts of the country remain in the middle of a deadly winter storm.
At least 28 people have died and more than a 100 million Americans remain under weather warnings.
Forecasters say another storm is on its way as an Arctic air mass moves across east Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Maryland.
*) Protester shot as rallies continue in Myanmar
One protester in Myanmar’s Mandalay has been shot and injured after security forces opened fire on protesters.
The military has also issued arrest warrants for six celebrities for encouraging mass rallies.
On Wednesday, tens of thousands of protesters blocked streets in the country's largest city Yangon, as a show of rejection to the army's claim that people overwhelmingly supported its coup.
*) US charges three North Koreans in $1.3B hacking spree
The US has charged three North Korean computer programmers with a massive hacking spree.
It was aimed at stealing more than $1.3 billion in money and cryptocurrency, affecting companies from banks to Hollywood movie studios.
The indictment alleges the hackers stole money while working for North Korea's military intelligence services.
*) Facebook blocks Australians from sharing news on its platform
Facebook has blocked Australian users from accessing news on its platform.
The move comes as a proposed law in Australia would force tech giants like Facebook and Google to pay publishers for the content reposted from news outlets.
Facebook says the law misrepresents the relationship between the platform and publishers.
And finally…
*) Fresh clashes in Spain over rapper's arrest
Police in Spain clashed with thousands protesting for the release of jailed Spanish rapper Pablo Hasel.
His case has caused widespread controversy with many saying it’s a dangerous assault on free speech.
The singer insulted the monarchy and accused police of brutality and murder in a series of tweets.
*) French lawmakers approve controversial 'anti-separatism' bill
France's controversial anti-separatism bill has survived a crucial vote in the lower house of parliament.
The proposed law is widely criticised by the Muslim community, who say it will impose restrictions on almost every aspect of their lives.
President Emmanuel Macron says he's trying to protect France's secular values through the bill that will now be debated in the senate.
*) Plunging temperatures cause road chaos, power emergency
Millions are without power as a winter storm grips the southern and central US with record-low temperatures.
At least 20 people died in Texas, Kentucky and Missouri.
The storm is carrying heavy snow and freezing rain and prompted warnings for Canada and Mexico.
*) UN warns of possible escalation in Myanmar violence
The UN is warning of a possible escalation in violence in Myanmar as demonstrators gather to protest the military coup.
Protesters aim to show the army's assertion of widespread public support for seizing power and holding new elections was false.
The military also filed new charges against ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi, in a move that drew condemnation from the US, the UN and the UK.
*) US urges Houthi movement to halt advance on city of Marib
The US is urging Yemen’s Houthis to halt their offensive in Marib and engage in a UN-led peace process.
The offensive on Yemen government’s last northern stronghold is sparking fears of a new humanitarian crisis.
Marib has served as a sanctuary for around a million Yemenis who fled violence in the capital Sanaa in 2014.
And finally…
*) Italy's Mount Etna shoots lava into night sky, after leaping into action
Europe's most active volcano Mount Etna has erupted several times, shooting lava and spewing ash into the sky.
The volcanic activity at the popular tourist destination was expected and posed no danger to the surrounding villages.
The eruptions that are spectacular to watch at night also prompted authorities to shut down a nearby airport.
*) Turkey summons US envoy over conditional condemnation
Ankara has slammed US reaction to the PKK terror group’s execution of 13 Turkish citizens in northern Iraq.
The bodies of hostages were found in a cave following an anti-terror operation by Turkish Armed Forces.
The US State Department issued a conditional condemnation following the attack, which Turkish officials described as a “joke”.
*) Dozens killed, hundreds missing in DRC boat accident
At least 60 people have died after a passenger barge carrying more than 700 sank in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Some 300 survivors were found near the scene of the accident in the Congo River.
Efforts are being made to find more than 240 people who are still missing.
*) Rockets strike near US base in Iraq
A rocket attack at a US-led military base in northern Iraq has killed a civilian contractor and wounded five other people, including a US service member.
Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said the US will support Baghdad in investigating and holding accountable those who are responsible.
It was the most deadly attack to hit the US forces in Iraq in almost a year.
*) Protests continue despite increasing crackdown in Myanmar
Myanmar’s army has deployed extra troops around the country to intensify the crackdown on anti-coup protests.
The internet was also blocked for a second night in a row, prompting condemnation from the UN.
Myanmar's citizens continue to defy the military and protest the coup which overthrew leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
And finally...
*) Jaguar cars go fully electric from 2025
Indian-owned Jaguar plans to go fully electric from 2025.
The company hopes the move will help turn around the fortunes of the 86-year-old luxury brand, which has struggled in recent years.
Previously British owned, Jaguar was bought by India’s Tata Motors during the global financial crisis of 2008.
*) Myanmar junta shuts down internet
Myanmar has cut down internet service and deployed troops around the country in signs of a feared crackdown on anti-coup protests.
The junta has escalated efforts to quell a civil disobedience campaign that demands the return of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi.
The military has instructed journalists in the country not to cover the coup protests that are continuing to expand across Myanmar.
*) PKK terrorists kill 13 Turkish citizens in N Iraq
Turkish forces have found the bodies of 13 Turkish nationals murdered in a cave in northern Iraq.
Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar says PKK terrorists executed all 13 hostages before they could be rescued in an operation.
Akar says all terrorists in the cave were killed by Turkish forces.
*) Senate acquits Trump of inciting Capitol attack
US Senate has acquitted former president Donald Trump of the charge of inciting last month's Capitol riots.
Seven Republicans joined all Democrats in the most bipartisan impeachment vote ever, but it fell far short of the 67 votes needed for Trump's conviction.
The trial of the deadly January 6 riots has left a divided nation to come to terms with the violence sparked by Trump's defeated presidency.
*) Several killed in DRC militia attack
At least 11 civilians, including a 10-year-old girl, have been killed in a militant attack on northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Local officials said fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces attacked the town of Ndalya. Three soldiers also died in the ambush.
The UN says 468 deaths in the country’s east were attributed to the ADF in the second half of 2020, including 15 children.
And finally...
*) Bitcoin pulls back from brink of $50,000
Bitcoin has pulled back from a record high and other cryptocurrencies have slipped.
The crypto market saw a decline, as investors took profits from a record-breaking rally that has pushed Bitcoin close to $50,000.
Bitcoin fell as much as 5.6 percent to under $46,000 in Asian trading hours after posting a record peak of $49,715 on Sunday.
*) Prosecutors conclude arguments in Trump impeachment trial
Prosecutors gave their final arguments in Donald Trump's impeachment trial, warning he could do it again if not convicted.
They called on senators to use their common sense to convict Trump for inciting the US Capitol insurrection.
A two-thirds majority in an evenly split 100 member senate is needed to convict the former president.
*) Snap lockdown imposed in Australia's Victoria state
A five-day lockdown has been imposed in Australia's state of Victoria to stop an outbreak of the hyper-infectious UK strain of Covid-19, which leaked from a quarantine hotel.
Some 5 million people will have to remain indoors for five days, except for a limited number of permitted activities.
The Australian Open grand slam tennis tournament, which began in Melbourne this week, will be allowed to continue without fans.
*) US piles sanctions on Myanmar army leaders
The US has slapped more sanctions on the leaders of Myanmar's army.
The US Treasury Department blocked US assets and transactions with 10 military officials held responsible for the February 1 coup.
Demonstrations condemning the ousting of Aung San Suu Kyi have largely been peaceful, although security forces this week used tear gas, water cannons and rubber bullets on protesters.
*) China bans BBC after its report on Uighur minority
China has banned Britain's BBC World News after the channel's report on Beijing's treatment of the Muslim Uighur minority.
The decision came just days after Britain revoked the broadcast license of China's CGTN for breaking UK law.
The relations between the two countries are strained by China's introduction of a security law in Britain's former colony, Hong Kong.
And finally...
*) Jazz legend Chick Corea dies at 79
Chick Corea, a towering jazz pianist who pushed the boundaries of the genre, has died aged 79.
Corea died of a rare form of cancer, which had only been recently discovered.
During his career, Corea won 23 Grammy Awards, produced dozens of albums and played alongside Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock.
*) Trump trial video shows danger of Capitol riot
Prosecutors at Donald Trump's impeachment trial showed chilling new security video to recount the Capitol insurrection.
The video showed a mob of rioters breaking into the Capitol, smashing windows and doors and searching menacingly for Mike Pence and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, as police begged on their radios for help.
Prosecutors detailed how Trump did nothing on January 6th to stop the attackers, despite those around him urging him to call them off.
*) Biden in call with China's Xi raises human rights, trade
US President Joe Biden spoke about trade and Beijing's crackdown on activists in Hong Kong during a phone call with China's Xi Jinping.
Biden also pressed Xi on Beijing's human rights abuses against Uighur and ethnic minorities, and its actions toward Taiwan.
Xi told Biden that China and the US should manage their disputes in a constructive manner, unlike his predecessor.
*) Prominent Saudi women’s rights activist released from prison
One of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent political activists has been released from prison.
Loujain al Hathloul, who pushed to end a ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia, was arrested in 2018 and sentenced to almost six years in prison under a broad counterterrorism law.
Her early release comes as Joe Biden vows to reassess the US-Saudi partnership and stand up for human rights and democratic principles..
*) Red Cross: Tens of thousands could die from starvation in Tigray
The Ethiopian Red Cross Society warns that tens of thousands could starve to death in the country's conflict-hit Tigray region.
The situation worsened after Ethiopian forces launched a military offensive there three months ago.
Nearly 4 million of Tigray's roughly 6 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
And finally...
*) Tokyo 2020 president to resign over sexist comments
Yoshiro Mori, the president of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics organising committee, will resign after publicly making sexist remarks.
The 83-year-old complained that Olympic committee meetings were dragging because competitive women in attendance talked too much.
His comments resulted in the resignation of over 400 Olympic volunteers and protests calling for him to step down.
*) US Senate votes to proceed with impeachment trial
US Senators in Donald Trump's historic second impeachment trial have agreed to consider the case.
The vote to proceed was 56 to 44, including six Republican senators.
Trump is accused of inciting the deadly riot at the US Capitol on January 6th.
His defence lawyers argued it was unconstitutional to convict a president on impeachment charges after he'd left office.
The New York Times is reporting Trump was unhappy with his lawyers' defence tactics, which included praise for the arguments of the House impeachment managers.
*) Thousands protest for fifth day in Myanmar, defying military orders
In Myanmar, thousands continue to protest the February first military coup for a fifth consecutive day.
Civil disobedience continued despite demonstrations turning violent the day before, leaving four people injured, including one in critical condition. Dozens have also been arrested.
Meanwhile, the military junta raided the headquarters of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi's NLD party in Yangon.
*) Rescue teams search for survivors after India glacier collapse
Rescue teams in India continue searching for survivors after part of a glacier collapsed in the northern state of Uttarakhand.
The incident on Sunday triggered flash floods and landslides that killed at least 32 people. Another 170 are still missing and feared dead.
Rescue efforts are focused on several sites, including a tunnel where dozens of hydropower plant workers are possibly trapped.
*) Turkey unveils National Space Programme
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has unveiled Turkey's national space programme.
Erdogan said the programme's primary objective is to embark on the country's first mission to the moon by 2023.
The first stage of the mission would be “through international cooperation,” while the second stage would utilise Turkish rockets, Erdogan said.
And finally...
*) Ethiopia’s Tsegay sets new world indoor record in 1,500 metre
Gudaf Tsegay of Ethiopia has set a new 1,500-metre indoor world record by finishing in 3 minutes 53.09 seconds at a meet in northern France.
A world bronze medalist, Tsegay followed the fast tempo set by the pacemaker and held on to prevail over Britain’s Laura Muir and her teammate Melissa Courtney-Bryant.
Tsegay took more than two seconds off the previous record set by fellow Ethiopian Genzebe Dibaba in 2014.
*) US Senate leaders announce rules for impeachment trial
US Senate leaders from both parties have agreed on the rules for former President Donald Trump's impeachment trial on Tuesday.
The trial will begin with a debate and vote on whether it's even constitutional to prosecute the former president and opening arguments would begin on Wednesday.
Senate Democrats say Trump incited his supporters to riot at the US Capitol on January the sixth as lawmakers were certifying Joe Biden's 2020 election win.
Trump’s lawyers have called the entire procedure unconstitutional...because Trump is no longer president.
*) Myanmar protesters vow to disobey ban on gatherings
In Myanmar, protests are showing no sign of ending, despite curfews and bans on big gatherings.
The civil disobedience call affects hospitals, schools and government offices across the Southeast Asian country as the movement continues to grow for the fourth day in a row.
Myanmar's military leader says the coup against Aung San Suu Kyi's government was justified as her victory in the November poll was unfair.
*) Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai remains in prison
Hong Kong's top court has extended media tycoon and Beijing critic Jimmy Lai's stay in prison.
Lai has been in custody since December the third, except for a week when he was granted bail.
Now, the court has ruled that his release on bail last year was based on a misinterpretation of national security rules.
*) Teams search for survivors of Himalayan glacier collapse in India
In India, search and rescue teams are looking for survivors after part of a glacier collapsed in the northern state of Uttarakhand on Sunday.
The incident triggered flash floods and landslides that killed at least 26 people. Another 170 are still missing.
Rescue efforts are focused on several sites, including a tunnel where dozens of hydropower plant workers are reportedly trapped.
And finally...
*) Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes agree on a one-year contract
Lewis Hamilton has signed a one-year deal with Mercedes for the 2021 season but the Formula One team's boss indicated it could be his final season in the car.
The agreement ends the British driver's long-running contract saga with the dominant Silver Arrows ahead of the start of the new campaign in Bahrain.
Hamilton has won more races, pole positions and podiums than any other driver in the sport's history.
*) US won't lift sanctions on Iran
Joe Biden says the US will not lift sanctions on Iran until it stops enriching uranium beyond the limits set in the 2015 nuclear deal.
Biden's comments follow those by Iranian cleric Ali Khamenei, who says Tehran will only rejoin the deal if the US rescinds sanctions.
The deal has been hanging by a thread since Donald Trump decided to withdraw from it in 2018 and reimpose sanctions on Tehran.
*) Nationwide anti-coup protests continue in Myanmar
Thousands are taking a stand against the military coup in Myanmar with nationwide rallies.
They're demanding the release of leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other top politicians who were arrested.
The nationwide protests are the biggest since the 2007 Saffron Revolution.
*) Scores missing after Himalayan glacier bursts
At least 14 people were killed after a glacier burst, triggering a massive avalanche and heavy flooding in northern India.
Rescue workers are now racing to find scores of people still missing, and feared dead.
Footage on social media shows water gushing towards a small hydroelectric dam, sweeping away nearly everything in its path.
*) South Africa suspends use of AstraZeneca’s vaccine
South African health officials have suspended the rollout of AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine.
The decision comes after a study found the vaccine offers only limited protection for the more contagious variant there.
Vaccines developed by Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer-BioNTech will be used instead.
And finally...
*) Tampa Bay Buccaneers win the Super Bowl
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have won the NFL Super Bowl after beating the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9.
The 43-year-old quarterback Tom Brady, won a coveted seventh Super Bowl, as he steered his team to victory.
Brady was also named Super Bowl’s Most Valuable Player or MVP for the fifth time in his career.
*) Biden lays out US foreign policy plan
US President Joe Biden has outlined his foreign policy vision in a speech at the State Department.
His main points were to end US support in Yemen's war, putting China and Russia on notice, and raising the cap for refugees allowed into the US.
He says his administration will begin rebuilding alliances and re-engaging the world.
*) UK begins trial to test mixing of vaccines against variants
The UK has launched a trial to mix existing vaccines to fight thousands of mutations of the virus.
People taking part in the trial will get the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab first, followed by the Pfizer-BioNTech shot.
Researchers say at least 4,000 variants exist, including the fast-spreading UK, South African and Brazilian strains.
*) Health workers start anti-coup protests in virus-hit Myanmar
Medical workers across Myanmar began a civil disobedience protest against Monday's military coup.
Wearing red ribbons, the medics declared they won't work for the army government.
Myanmar's fragile health system is now facing the perfect storm of the pandemic and the coup.
*) US House punishes extremist Republican over conspiratorial views
Extremist QAnon supporting Republican House Member, Marjorie Taylor Greene, has been kicked off her two committee assignments.
The Democratic-controlled chamber voted in favour of the motion, along with a few Republicans who crossed party lines.
Before the vote, Greene expressed regret for some of her statements, but stopped short of issuing an apology.
And finally...
*) Strict measures for slimmed-down Super Bowl
The stage is set for Sunday’s NFL Super Bowl being held in Florida's Tampa, where Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take on Kansas City Chiefs.
This year’s slimmed down event will have high-level security measures and strict protocol because of the pandemic.
Capacity for the game has been slashed by two thirds, with inoculated health workers getting 7,500 tickets, 14,500 being sold via a lottery and 2,000 seats for VIP suites.
*) Canada designates the Proud Boys as a terrorist entity
The Canadian government has designated the Proud Boys group as a terrorist entity noting they played a pivotal role in the insurrection at the US Capitol.
The Proud Boys is a far-right, male chauvinist extremist group known for engaging in violent clashes at political rallies, and Canada is the first country to designate them as a terrorist entity.
During a September presidential debate, Donald Trump urged them to “stand back and stand by” when asked to condemn them by a moderator.
*) EU sends top envoy to Moscow as Navalny controversy grows
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell jets to the Kremlin over the jailing of Alexey Navalny and a crackdown on protesters.
The visit has drawn criticism from some European capitals worried Moscow will spin it as evidence Brussels is keen to return to business as normal.
the former Spanish foreign minister said: "It is when things are not going well that you must engage."
*)Facebook disrupted in Myanmar as UN chief warns coup must fail
Facebook services in Myanmar have been disrupted, days after the army seized power.
The Facebook disruption came as Myanmar saw its first street protest against this week's army coup, images on social media showed.
Myanmar plunged back into direct military rule when soldiers detained de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, later charging her over possession of illegal walkie-talkies.
*) UK, EU to intensify efforts to fix North Ireland's post-Brexit woes
Britain and the European Union have agreed to work "intensively" to resolve post-Brexit problems plaguing Northern Ireland, after border checks on goods were suspended this week.
The commitment was made at talks between senior UK minister Michael Gove, EU Commission Vice-president Maros Sefcovic and Northern Irish leaders.
It follows British demands for "rapid action" from the bloc and Prime Minister Boris Johnson renewing criticism of its role in the province.
And finally...
*) With ‘Mank’ and ‘The Crown,’ Netflix dominates Globes noms
After a year where the pandemic nearly emptied cinemas, Netflix has dominated nominations for the 78th Golden Globe Awards.
David Fincher's “Mank" lead film nominees with six nods and “The Crown” topped all television series.
Netflix led with a commanding 42 nominations, with 22 coming in film categories and 20 in television. No other studio came close.
*) Russian court jails Kremlin critic Navalny, sparking Western outcry
A Moscow court jailed the Kremlin's most prominent critic, Alexey Navalny, for nearly three years, triggering fierce condemnation from the West and calls for his release.
Britain, France, Germany, the United States and the European Union denounced the ruling.
Navalny's supporters called for more demonstrations over the decision, after thousands joined nationwide protests against his arrest over the last two weekends.
*) US says Myanmar military takeover constitutes coup, reviewing aid
The US will conduct a review of its foreign assistance to Myanmar after determining that the military takeover this week constituted a coup.
President Joe Biden has threatened new sanctions against the generals who seized power in Myanmar.
At the request of the White House, top US military officer Army General Mark Milley attempted to call Myanmar’s military following the coup but he was unable to connect, a US official said.
*) 71 homes destroyed as Australia bushfire rages near locked-down Perth
At least 71 homes have been destroyed in a bushfire raging out of control near Australia's fourth-biggest city, Perth, authorities said.
As the blaze moved towards more densely populated areas, Western Australian fire commissioner Darren Klemm urged residents to act swiftly to escape the potentially deadly blaze.
No deaths or serious injuries have been reported so far.
*) EU nations cautious over AstraZeneca on people over 55
Belgium said it won’t administer the AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to people over 55, questioning its effectiveness.
Health authorities in France, Germany and other countries have raised concerns that the company didn’t test the vaccine in enough older people to prove it works for them.
“We don’t have enough info to be sure to say that it is good for the elderly,” Belgian Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke said.
And finally...
*) Jeff Bezos to step down as Amazon CEO
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos says he would stand aside later this year as chief executive of the company.
Bezos said he will transition to the role of executive chair in the third quarter, handing over the CEO role to Andy Jassy, who heads Amazon Web Services.
In a letter to Amazon employees, Bezos said he would "stay engaged in important Amazon initiatives" but will pivot towards philanthropic initiatives.
*) Myanmar coup mastermind on US blacklist
The man in charge of Myanmar is on a US blacklist for serious human rights abuses against Rohingya Muslims.
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who masterminded Monday's coup, is also known for leading troops into the northwestern Rakhine region.
The army is accused of conducted ethnic cleansing operations by burning people in their homes and committing other atrocities that displaced 700,000 Rohingya.
The UN fears the coup will worsen the plight of some 600,000 Rohingya Muslims still in the country.
*) Iran hints at way to bridge nuclear deal impasse
Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarf is proposing a solution which will see the 2015 nuclear deal restored.
Speaking to CNN, he said EU officials can help choreograph the actions that Washington and Tehran need to take.
This comes as both parties say they are open to diplomacy, yet hesitant to take the first step.
*) US to resume deportations of asylum seekers
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency is set to resume the deportations of asylum seekers.
That's after a Trump-appointed Texas judge ruled against the 100-day suspension ordered by President Joe Biden.
This marks the first action in a legal decision taken by Trump loyalists, intended to obstruct the Biden administration's agenda.
*) Al Shabab terrorists killed after hotel attack
A huge snowstorm has brought chaos to the US East Coast.
The National Weather Service issued storm warnings from Virginia to Maine, as heavy snow mixed with wind gusts of up to 80km/h spurred blizzard-like conditions along the eastern seaboard.
New York declared a state of emergency and almost all flights were cancelled at airports in New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Washington.
And finally...
*) SpaceX aims for a civilian trip into orbit
SpaceX is aiming to launch an all-civilian mission into Earth's orbit later this year.
The trip is being led by tech billionaire Jared Isaacman, who plans to raffle off the remaining three spots to the public.
All crew members will receive commercial astronaut training by SpaceX on the Falcon 9 launch vehicle and Dragon spacecraft.
*) Myanmar military seize power via bloodless coup
Myanmar’s military has taken control of the country after staging a bloodless coup.
The nation's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other senior figures from the ruling party have been arrested.
The army was in a power-sharing agreement with the civilian government, but claimed voter fraud in recent elections which gave San Suu Kyi another term.
The commander of the armed forces, Min Aung Hlaing is now in charge.
*) South Africa receives first batch of vaccines
The first 1 million Covid-19 vaccine doses are being delivered to South Africa.
The country has recorded the most coronavirus infections and deaths on the African continent with more than 1.4 million cases and over 41,000 deaths.
There is now a more virulent strain of the disease in the country that is desperate to begin rolling out the vaccine.
*) Russian police arrest over 5,000 in Pro-Navalny rallies
Russian authorities have arrested more than 5,000 people at nationwide anti-government rallies.
Tens of thousands of people took to the streets in support of opposition leader Alexey Navalny for a second consecutive weekend, despite the Kremlin’s efforts to curb protests.
Supporters of Navalny are demanding his release from jail.
*) Al Shabab terrorists killed after hotel attack
Al Shabab terrorists who attacked a hotel in Somalia's capital Mogadishu, have been shot and killed by security forces.
Police say the heavily-armed gunman stormed the Afrik Hotel after a suicide car bombing at the hotel's entrance.
At least nine people were killed and several others injured in the bombing.
And finally...
*) Captain Tom Moore being treated for Covid-19
The UK's favourite centenarian fundraiser, Captain Tom Moore, has been hospitalised after testing positive for COVID-19.
The 100-year-old veteran of World War II was given a knighthood after raising millions of pounds for the National Health Service.
According to his daughter, Sir Tom was being treated for pneumonia before testing positive for Covid-19.
*) US ready to prosecute Pakistani man acquitted of Daniel Pearl's murder
The US is prepared to prosecute the man acquitted by Pakistan's top court for the murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the decision to acquit Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh "is an affront to terrorism victims everywhere."
He said Washington expects Pakistan to review its legal options to "ensure justice is served."
*) Novavax Covid-19 vaccine 89 percent effective in UK trial
Novavax says its coronavirus vaccine has shown 89.3 percent efficacy in preventing Covid-19 in a trial conducted in the UK.
The company said the vaccine is nearly as effective in protecting against UK’s more highly contagious variant.
A mid-stage trial in South Africa shows it did not work as well against the variant there, with 60 percent efficacy among people who did not have HIV.
*) Class action lawsuit filed against Robinhood online brokerage
GameStop and AMC Entertainment are at the centre of a market battle between small investors and Wall Street.
Amateur investors massively drove up GameStop and others' shares in a plan coordinated on Reddit, squeezing hedge funds that bet on the struggling firms to tank.
Hours later, Robinhood, the trading app where individual investors were buying shares, halted trading of the viral stocks.
Now Robinhood is in the line of fire from angry customers, and politicians, and is facing a class-action lawsuit.
*) Biden signs orders reversing Trump policies on Obamacare, abortion funding
US President Joe Biden has reopened the online health insurance marketplace for people who cannot obtain coverage through their employers.
The new special enrollment period will begin on February 15 and run through May 15.
His administration will also review policies that curb abortion counselling, and make it harder for people to access Medicaid.
And finally...
*) Cicely Tyson, groundbreaking award-winning actor, dead at 96
Cicely Tyson, the pioneering Black actor who gained an Oscar nomination for her role in “Sounder,” has died at age 96.
Tyson's death was announced by her family who did not provide additional details.
She gained fame in the early 70s when Black women were starting to get starring roles.
*) Biden pauses Trump policies as Blinken takes diplomatic helm
The Biden administration has paused or “put under review” a wide range of Trump-era foreign policies.
The administration placed temporary holds on several big-ticket arms sales to the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he’s looking urgently at a terrorism designation against Yemen’s Houthis and a review on US-Russia relations.
*) New protests as Polish court seals divisive abortion ruling
New anti-government protests have broken out in Polish cities after the country's top court confirmed it will further tighten the nation’s anti-abortion law.
Termination of pregnancy will now be allowed only if the woman's health is threatened or if the pregnancy is the result of a criminal act.
Thousands gathered outside the court building in Warsaw responding to calls for fresh protests by women’s groups.
*) Amnesty raps France over weapons used against Lebanon protesters
Amnesty International has urged Paris to halt weapons sales to Lebanon, saying the French arms were used to quell peaceful demonstrations.
French-manufactured rubber bullets, tear gas grenades and launchers have been used repeatedly since the start of an anti-government protest in Lebanon.
Amnesty said its findings were based on analysis of more than 100 videos of protests in Beirut, as well testimonies and medical records collected by researchers on the ground.
*) Brazil's Covid-19 response worst, New Zealand's best – study
Brazil's handling of the coronavirus pandemic has been ranked the world's worst, while New Zealand topped the class.
Sydney's Lowy Institute assessed almost 100 countries on six criteria, including confirmed cases, deaths and testing metrics.
Aside from New Zealand – Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand, Cyprus, Rwanda, Iceland, Australia, Latvia and Sri Lanka made the top 10 for their responses.
And finally…
*) Oscar-winning, 'irreplaceable' Cloris Leachman dies at 94
Cloris Leachman, an Oscar-winner for her portrayal of a lonely housewife in ‘The Last Picture Show,’ has died at 94.
Leachman died in her sleep of natural causes at her home in California with her daughter Dinah Englund at her side.
Messages of condolences from fans and colleagues poured out on social media.
*) UN accuses Yemen govt of money-laundering
A new UN report is accusing Yemen's government of corruption by running a sophisticated money laundering scheme.
The report, filed with the UN's Security Council, says the Central Bank of Yemen laundered nearly $500 million which was intended to strengthen food security.
The report also says the Houthis diverted some $1.8 billion of state money in 2019 to fund their war efforts.
*) US senators sworn in to prepare for impeachment trial
US senators were sworn in preparation for Donald Trump's impeachment trial.
Republicans immediately challenged the proceedings, which they say is unconstitutional, as Trump is no longer in power.
Trump is charged with inciting an insurrection on Capitol Hill earlier this month that ended in 5 deaths. The trial is expected to start in two weeks.
*) Biden signs executive orders for racial equity
US President Joe Biden has signed executive orders to promote racial equity and help end systemic racism and xenophobia.
Biden signed four executive orders:
- Ending the government's use of private prisons
- Bolstering anti-discrimination enforcement in housing
- Underscoring a commitment to Native-American tribal sovereignty
- Condemning discrimination against Asian Americans and Americans of Pacific Island descent that has risen during pandemic
*) Over 100,000 dead from Covid-19 in UK
The UK is now the first in Europe to record more than 100,000 deaths from Covid-19.
It follows a surge in cases last month after restrictions on social mixing were relaxed for Christmas.
The UK now joins the US, Brazil, India and Mexico with the highest coronavirus death tolls.
And finally…
*) US Army loosen restrictions on female hairstyles and grooming
Female US soldiers can let their hair down, and flash a little nail colour under new rules being approved by the Army.
Army leaders are loosening restrictions on various grooming and hairstyle rules.
The changes, which also expand allowances for earrings, hair highlights and dyes, are particularly responsive to women of various ethnicities.
The new regulations take effect in late February.
*) Trump impeachment article goes to Senate
An article of impeachment against Donald Trump has been delivered to the US Senate.
The House of Representatives has charged Trump with inciting the deadly insurrection at the Capitol earlier this month.
The trial is scheduled to start in two weeks as leaders of both parties agreed to a short delay to give Trump's team and House prosecutors time to prepare.
*) McConnell offers support for power sharing with Democrats
US Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell says he's in support of a power-sharing agreement with Democrats.
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and McConnell are at odds over Republican demands that Democrats promise to protect the filibuster, which requires a 60-vote supermajority to advance most legislation.
*) Second night of riots in Netherlands over curfew
Rioters looted shops and ransacked supplies for a second day as they again clashed with police in several cities across the Netherlands.
Protests and riots began after the government announced a new daytime curfew, the first since World War II.
The lockdown will be in effect until February 10.
*) Anger grows over virus lockdown in Lebanon
At least 30 people were injured in Lebanon's Tripoli after anti-curfew protesters clashed with security forces.
The protests were triggered by a total lockdown put in place to curb the spread of Covid-19.
The country of 6 million has seen over 280,000 cases and 2,404 deaths from the virus.
And finally…
*) New Patagonian dinosaur may be largest yet
Paleontologists in Argentina say they've found what could be the largest dinosaur to have ever roamed the planet.
The Titan-o-saur was a plant-eating dinosaur about 35 metres long which existed around 98 million years ago.
Experts realised the significance after piecing the vertebrae and pieces of bone together.
*) Netherlands anti-curfew protests spark clashes with police, looting
Anti-lockdown protests turned to riots in the Netherlands, prompting police to use tear gas, water cannons and dogs to disperse thousands.
At least 55 were arrested after chaos erupted in the country's main cities against the implementation of a new daytime curfew, the first since World War II.
It was the worst violence to hit the country since the pandemic began. The lockdown will be in effect until 10 February.
*) Taiwan reports second day of incursions by Chinese air force
Taiwan has reported a second day of incursions into its airspace by 12 Chinese Air Force fighters jets.
China claims Taiwan as its territory and has increased military activity near the island in recent months.
Meanwhile, the US military has sent the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier into the South China Sea for what it says is to ensure freedom of the seas.
*) Portugal president wins election
Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has won a second term in office after winning an election with 61 percent of the vote.
Rebelo de Sousa, a centre-right moderate, will serve a five-year term that will be his last due to term limits.
Socialist candidate Ana Gomes came second with 13 percent but close behind in third was Andre Ventura, a newly arrived right-wing populist who won 12 percent.
*) Thousands evacuated as storm makes landfall in Mozambique
Mozambique is reeling from Cyclone Eloise, which made landfall early on Saturday.
Nearly 7,000 people have been displaced, while some 130,000 hectares of crops destroyed by heavy downpours.
Forecasters are warning of widespread flooding and strong winds as the storm heads inland.
And finally…
*) SpaceX sets another world record
SpaceX has set another world record.
A Falcon 9 rocket carried 143 satellites into orbit on a jam-packed rideshare.
That's the most satellites launched by a single rocket.
The devices are owned by several companies, each paying at least a million dollars to send their tech into space.
*) Death toll climbs in twin suicide attack in Baghdad
At least 32 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in two suicide bombings in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.
It's believed that two assailants detonated their explosive vests in an outdoor market. It's the first such attack in the city's commercial area in several years.
The bombings come amid heightened political tensions as Iraq looks to have early elections in October.
*) Biden orders masks, travel clampdown in new war on Covid
US president Joe Biden has signed a series of executive orders aimed at bringing the coronavirus pandemic under control.
Working with top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci, Biden has asked people to wear a face mask for the first 100 days of his presidency.
New quarantine rules for those arriving in the US have also been introduced.
*) Turkish foreign minister meets EU counterpart in Brussels
After a year that produced numerous disagreements between Turkey and the EU, the signs for 2021 are more encouraging.
EU's Chief of Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell says the atmosphere between the two countries has improved.
Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu is currently in Brussels, meeting officials from the EU and also NATO.
*) Opposition leader Bobi Wine's lawyers barred from seeing him
Lawyers for Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine have been blocked from seeing him a week after he was placed under house arrest.
Security forces have been surrounding Wine's home in the capital Kampala since last week's election. President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner, but Wine rejected the results.
Officials say Wine can only leave his home under military escort because his presence threatens public safety.
And finally…
*) Japan refutes report of Olympics cancellation
Japan's Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga says his government is determined to go ahead with this year's delayed Tokyo Olympics.
His comments follow a report in The Times newspaper which claimed the government's focus is now on securing the games for Tokyo in the next available year, which is 2032.
The International Olympic Committee has said there is 'no Plan B' and It's also 'fully committed' to starting the Tokyo Games on schedule.
*) Newly sworn-in president takes US back to agreements revoked by Trump
US President Joe Biden has returned the country to the international climate agreement, suspended a ban on Muslims entering the US, and issued a series of other executive orders on his first day in office.
Within his first hours on the job, Biden made good on several campaign and post-election pledges.
Some of the president’s decisions can be seen as modest, but experts warn there still could be legal challenges.
Biden's choices are in stark contrast to former president Donald Trump's actions, as the former president took America out of global deals and challenged allies at home and abroad over policies.
*) Biden pledges to vaccinate 100 million people in 100 days
President Biden has pledged to vaccinate 100 million people in 100 days.
His bold statement comes after the United States passed the somber milestone of 400,000 deaths from the virus and recorded more than 24 million infections.
The new president also proposed a 1.9 trillion dollar Covid-19 relief package, which White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki says will be based on an assessment of people's specific needs.
*) Kamala Harris's ancestral village celebrates in India
Celebrations over the inauguration extend all the way to Kamala Harris's ancestral village in India.
The new vice president’s maternal grandfather is believed to have been born in a village near the southeast coast, more than a century ago.
Harris, who was born to an Indian mother and a Jamaican father, visited the village when she was five.
Harris becomes the first woman, first Black American and first Asian American to win for Vice President.
*) Police use tear gas on ongoing anti-Moise rallies
Police in Haiti have used tear gas in clashes with protesters demanding the resignation of President Jovenel Moise.
One woman was reported to have been shot in the arm and others were wounded by rubber bullets during the violence.
Opposition leaders organising the ongoing protest movement are pushing for Moise to step down in early February as Haiti's economic and social woes deepen.
Moise has said his term will end in February 2022 and that he is open to dialogue with the opposition.
And finally…
*) Last heir of Ottoman Empire dynasty dies at 90
The last surviving heir of the House of Osman, the royal dynasty that once ruled the Ottoman Empire has died at age 90 in Syria.
Prince Dundar Abdulkerim Osmanoglu passed away at a hospital on Monday in the Syrian capital Damascus, where he had been receiving treatment, his family said in a statement.
Osmanoglu was the grandson of Prince Mehmet Selim Efendi, son of Abdulhamid II, the legendary Ottoman sultan credited with prolonging the survival of the Ottoman Empire.
*) Trump pardons ex-strategist Steve Bannon, dozens of others
We begin in the US, where President Donald Trump has pardoned former chief strategist Steve Bannon as part of a late flurry of clemency action benefitting over 140 people, including rap stars and former members of Congress.
The pardons and commutations were announced in the final hours of Trump's White House term.
The last-minute clemency follows separate waves of pardons over the last month for Trump associates convicted in the FBI’s Russia investigation, as well as for the father of his son-in-law.
*) A dozen troops removed from inaugural duty after vetting
With the US's Capitol tightly locked down ahead of Joe Biden’s inauguration, the FBI has removed a dozen members of the National Guard from duty.
Two were removed for having expressed anti-government sentiment on their social media. The rest were removed for other reasons, which were not linked to extremism.
More than twenty-five thousand members of the National Guard have been deployed in Washington following the storming of the Capitol building by Trump supporters earlier this month.
*) US determines China committed genocide in Xinjiang region
The Trump administration has accused China of committing “genocide and crimes against humanity” over its repression of Uighur Muslims in the Xinjiang region.
Outgoing US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made the announcement.
China has been widely condemned for keeping more than a million Uighur Muslims in what have been described as “concentration” camps.
Beijing insists they are vocational training centres designed to stop Uighur Muslims turning to extremism.
*) EU aims to have 70 percent of its population vaccinated by summer
The European Union says member states should vaccinate at least 70 percent of their adult populations by this summer to control the coronavirus pandemic.
But officials have yet to say how they plan to boost capacity. The EU has so far secured more than 2-point-3 billion doses for its population of 450 million.
But only two developers have received regulatory approval. Meanwhile, the EU commission says it's working to develop vaccination certificates that will allow travel within the bloc.
And finally…
*) Netflix tops 200 million subscribers amid growth in pandemic
Netflix has said its global subscriber rolls crossed 200 million at the end of 2020.
It has also projected it will no longer need to borrow billions to finance its broad slate of TV shows and movies.
The world's largest streaming service had raised $15 billion through debt since 2011.
*) Magnitude 6.4 quake hits Argentina
An earthquake of magnitude 6.4 has shaken western and central Argentina and parts of neighbouring Chile.
The US Geological Survey reported that the epicentre was near the town of Pocito, in San Juan province, about 1,000 kilometres from capital Buenos Aires.
The US Tsunami Warning System said no tsunami warning has been issued for the earthquake and no casualties or significant damage have been reported.
*) Guatemala troops, police break up Honduran migrant caravan
Guatemalan security forces have broken up a caravan of some 4,000 Honduran migrants trying to reach the United States.
Migrants who are desperate to escape poverty, unemployment, gang and drug violence are hoping for a better life in the US under the leadership of Joe Biden.
They are planning to reach Guatemala and then Mexico, walking all the way to the United States.
*) Biden to prioritise legal status of immigrants after inauguration
President-elect Joe Biden plans to unveil an immigration bill on day one of his administration.
The bill will provide an eight-year path to citizenship for an estimated 11 million people living in the US without legal status.
With the bill, Biden will keep his campaign promise to Latino voters and other immigrant communities.
*) Hundreds of youths clash with police in Tunisia
Hundreds of young Tunisians have clashed with police in cities across Tunisia, throwing stones and gasoline bombs in the capital, Tunis.
Tunisia has seen the new wave of street clashes since the north African country marked the 10th anniversary of its revolution last week.
The young people take the streets to protest the country's deep social and economic crises.
And finally…
*) Michelin awards first star to a vegan restaurant in France
A vegan restaurant in the French southwest has won a Michelin Guide star.
ONA, which stands for “animal-free origin”, is the first vegan restaurant in France to win a star.
The restaurant also won a green star, which Michelin introduced only last year to reward establishments with a strong record for ethical practices.
*) FBI screens troops ahead of US inauguration
We start in the US where the FBI is screening National Guard members to make sure they do not pose a security risk during President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration on Wednesday.
Security officials have raised alarms over rising threats since the January 6 insurrection at the US Capitol by pro-Trump rioters.
Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy said the Guard members are also getting trained to identify potential insider threats.
*) Trapped Chinese workers in gold mine still alive
Miners trapped underground in eastern China for more than a week after a blast at a gold mine have managed to send up a note to rescuers.
Twelve workers have been trapped since a blast occurred in a gold mine near Qixia city in eastern Shandong province last week.
The note said four of the workers were injured and that the condition of others was deteriorating because of a lack of fresh air and water.
*) China economy grows in 2020 despite pandemic
The Chinese economy has grown 2.3 percent in 2020 despite the coronavirus pandemic.
The Asian giant became the only major economy in the world to avoid a contraction last year.
Growth in the three months ending in December rose to 6.5 percent over a year earlier, up from the previous quarter’s 4.9 percent.
*) Aid effort intensifies after Indonesia quake
Rescuers have intensified their work to find those buried in the rubble after a magnitude 6.2 earthquake hit Indonesia’s Sulawesi Island.
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency reported 70 people died in the hardest-hit city of Mamuju and 11 in the neighbouring district of Majene.
Nearly 800 people were injured, with more than half of them still receiving treatment for serious injuries.
And finally…
*) Wheelchair climber attempts to scale Hong Kong skyscraper
Paraplegic athlete Lai Chi-wai has become the first in Hong Kong to climb more than 250 metres of a skyscraper while strapped into a wheelchair.
Lai could not make it to the top of the 300-metre-tall Nina Tower due to safety concerns but his feat raised money for spinal cord patients.
The event clocked more than $670,600 in donations.
*) Quake hits Indonesia’s West Sulawesi
At least seven people have died and hundreds more injured after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia’s province of West Sulawesi.
Officials say more than 3,000 people were left displaced as the tremors damaged at least 60 homes and flattened some large buildings.
Rescuers were searching for a dozen patients and staff who were trapped under the rubble of a collapsed hospital.
*) Deadly attacks on civilians in eastern DRC
At least 46 civilians have been killed in an attack by suspected militants on a village in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Local security forces have been dispatched to the village in Irumu territory to investigate, provincial interior minister Adjio Gidi said by phone.
He blamed the Allied Democratic Forces for the raid, an armed group that is accused of carrying out a string of massacres in the region.
*) US rejects UN officials plea to reverse Yemen's Houthis terror designation
Top UN officials have been urging the US to roll back its decision to designate Yemen's Houthis a foreign terrorist organisation.
But the Trump administration has doubled down despite warnings that it would push the country into a large-scale famine and waylay peace efforts.
The US said the step is the right move if they want the political process to move forward.
*) Turkey begins Covid-19 vaccine rollout
More than a quarter of a million health workers have received the Sinovac Covid-19 vaccine on the first day of Turkey’s national rollout campaign.
The campaign is seen as key to reducing the spread of the virus that has killed more than 23,000 people in the country.
Turkey has acquired three million doses of CoronaVac with more shipments expected in the coming months.
And finally…
*) Lady Gaga, J Lo to perform at Biden inauguration
Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez will take the stage at Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony in Washington next week.
It appears Hollywood is back and eager to embrace the new US president-elect after many big names stayed away from President Trump’s inauguration.
The primetime TV special hosted by Tom Hanks will also include other performers like Justin Timberlake, Jon Bon Jovi, Demi Lovato and Ant Clemons.
*) Trump impeached for a second time
The US House of Representatives has voted 232-197 to impeach Donald Trump over last week’s Capitol riots. The articles of impeachment will now be sent on to the Senate for trial.
The Senate, currently not in session, won’t hold a trial before January 20, when Democrat Joe Biden will be sworn in as president.
Trump will, however, face a Senate trial after leaving office, and, if convicted, would be barred from seeking the presidency again in 2024.
*) Israel launches major air strikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria
Israeli air strikes on east Syria have killed at least 57 people, in the deadliest strikes since the start of the conflict.
Syrian regime media said that Israel struck sites in Al Bukamal, a border town on the Euphrates river, as well as Deir Ezzor.
Those killed include at least 14 Syrian regime forces, 16 Iraqi militia fighters and 11 Afghan members of the pro-Iran Fatimid Brigade, according to a war monitor.
*) Ugandans lose voice, digital rights in pre-poll blackout
Ugandans head to the polls for a general election that pits President Yoweri Museveni against leading opposition candidate Bobi Wine.
The 76-year-old incumbent has rebuffed calls to step down after 34 years in power while authorities imposed an internet blackout on the eve of the polls.
With promises to end corruption, create jobs and invest in public services, Wine has captured the hearts of many Ugandans in his clash with Museveni.
*) WHO fact finding mission arrives in Wuhan
An international team of experts from the World Health Organisation has arrived in China to probe the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The team will investigate how the virus spread from animals to humans but the WHO has warned the public to keep expectations 'very low.'
China granted permission to the team earlier this week, just days after the WHO chief criticised Beijing for holding up the mission, after some delays.
And finally…
*) Tesla asked to recall 158,000 cars over safety-related defect
US road safety regulators have asked Tesla to recall 158,000 cars in America because of a safety-related defect.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the defect has been found in certain 2012 through 2018 Tesla Model S cars and 2016 through 2018 Model Xs.
The agency said that a problem with the cars' display screen and related failures result in loss of rear view camera and other safety-related functions.
*) US House votes on resolution to remove Trump by 25th Amendment
House Democrats in the US have voted to urge Vice President Mike Pence to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove President Donald Trump from office.
But Pence has rejected it, telling the House Speaker he doesn't believe the resolution is in the best interests of the nation.
The House is now looking to impeach Trump for a second time on Wednesday.
*) Erdogan: Turkey hasn't given up on becoming EU member
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey is still committed to joining the European Union.
Speaking at a meeting with EU ambassadors in Ankara, the Turkish president said Turkey still sees its future with Europe.
Erdogan also said Turkey is ready to set a "positive agenda" with the EU, using a long-term perspective to help get relations with the bloc back on track.
*) Some 9,000 children died at Irish church-run homes in 1920-90s
Around 9,000 children died in Ireland's "mother and baby homes", where unmarried mothers were regularly separated from their infant children.
That's according to a report from Ireland's Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes that studied the homes over 76 years.
Religious orders and the Irish state dictated the running of the homes which housed unmarried pregnant women, lacked partner and family support, and faced social stigma.
*) Billionaire Republican donor Sheldon Adelson dies at 87
Billionaire casino magnate and donor to Republican and Jewish causes Sheldon Adelson has died of cancer at 87.
He was known for his tireless advocacy for Israel and right-wing causes, and for his impassioned opposition to the Palestinian cause.
One of the richest men in the world, Adelson was a prominent supporter of Trump and well-known in the American business community.
And finally…
*) WWF: Forest loss ‘hotspots’ bigger than California
The world has lost tropical forests equivalent to the size of California over a 13-year period, according to a new report by World Wide Fund for Nature.
More than 43 million hectares of forest were cleared in 24 deforestation hotspots across Asia, Latin America and Africa between 2004 and 2007.
Swathes of forest continue to be flattened each year, as biodiversity-rich areas are cleared to create space for livestock and crops.
*) US designates Cuba as state sponsor of terror
We begin in the US where the Trump administration has announced it is returning Cuba to the US list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The designation is one of several last-minute foreign policy moves that Trump’s administration is making before leaving office on January 20th.
On Saturday, the US also designated Yemen's Houthi rebels as a terrorist group.
*) Twitter suspends thousands of QAnon accounts
Staying with the US, Twitter says it has suspended more than 70,000 accounts linked to the QAnon conspiracy theory following the attack on the US Capitol.
Amazon also said it was removing some QAnon products from its online marketplace due to a prohibition on offensive items or other inappropriate content.
The bans come as the Pentagon says 15,000 National Guard troops will be deployed for Joe Biden's January 20 inauguration amid fears of more violence.
*) Netanyahu orders new Israeli settlement in West Bank
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given the go ahead for the construction of 800 new homes for settlers in the occupied West Bank.
The announcement came ahead of this month’s inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, who is critical of Israeli settlement policies.
All Jewish settlements in the West Bank are regarded as illegal by much of the international community.
*) Qatar-Saudi Arabia direct flights resume after thaw
A Qatar Airways jetliner has landed in Saudi Arabia, completing the first direct flight from Doha to Riyadh since a 2017 Riyadh-led boycott.
The resumption of direct flights came after Saudi Arabia reopened its borders and airspace with Qatar last week.
Qatar Airways tweeted that services to Jeddah and Dammam would resume later in the week.
And finally…
*) Gorillas at San Diego Zoo test positive for Covid-19
At least two gorillas at California's San Diego Zoo have caught the coronavirus.
It is believed to be the first outbreak among such primates in captivity.
California’s governor said two primates began coughing last week and tested positive for the virus, while a third is showing symptoms.
*) Democrats in Congress kick off efforts to drive Trump from office
Democrats in Congress will begin their drive to force President Donald Trump from office in the aftermath of the deadly Capitol riots.
The move kicks off a week of legislative action that could end with a vote that would make him the only president in US history to be impeached twice.
Last week, thousands of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, where lawmakers were certifying President-elect Joe Biden's election win.
*) Indonesia intensifies search for crashed plane's black boxes
Indonesian divers are searching the waters of Jakarta as they hunt for the black boxes from the passenger jet that crashed over the weekend.
The Boeing 737-500 jet, which was carrying 62 people, disappeared minutes after taking off from Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, during heavy rain.
Authorities said signals from the boxes were detected between Lancang and Laki islands in the Thousand Island chain just north of Jakarta's coast.
*) New coronavirus variant detected in Japan
The Japanese Health Ministry has found a coronavirus variant in people arriving from Brazil that’s different from the ones in Britain and South Africa.
The variant was found in airport tests carried out on a man in his 40s, a woman in her 30s and two teenagers.
Japan is working with other nations, the WHO and medical experts to analyze the new version of the virus.
*) US to designate Yemen's Houthis as foreign terrorist group
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the United States will designate Yemen's Houthi rebels as a terrorist group.
The move could complicate President-elect Joe Biden administration's efforts to restart diplomacy with Iran, which has ties to the movement.
The rebel group controls much of Yemen and is already under US sanctions.
And finally…
*) Turkish WhatsApp users quit app after WhatsApp update
Turkish users are taking a quick flight from messaging app WhatsApp to other alternatives after it forced many users to agree to new privacy rules.
Telegram, Signal - recommended by Elon Musk and BiP - developed by Turkish mobile network giant Turkcell are among the users’ favourites.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s media office and Turkey’s defence ministry also said they are quitting WhatsApp and shifting their groups to Bip.
*) Trump finally concedes to Biden
US President Trump has finally conceded election defeat to Joe Biden and also condemned his supporters for their deadly raid on congress.
It comes as chaos on Capitol Hill led to resignations in the Trump administration and calls for the president’s impeachment.
The siege of the Capitol building left four protesters and one police officer dead.
Now, an increasingly isolated Trump has promised to participate in a transition to the new administration on January 20.
*) Air strike, suicide bombing hit southern Afghanistan
At least 23 civilians and security forces have been killed in separate attacks in southern Afghanistan.
A suicide bomber killed six security forces near a military base in southern Uruzgan province, while an airstrike in Helmand province killed at least five people.
In northern Kunduz province, Taliban fighters stormed a military checkpoint killing at least 12 security personnel.
*) WhatsApp to share data with Facebook
WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook, has announced a change in its privacy policy which will allow Facebook to access user data.
Over 2 billion users will be presented with "an ultimatum" on February 8th to either accept the new privacy policies or delete their accounts.
WhatsApp had assured users that their data would remain private when Facebook acquired it in 2014.
*) Pfizer study suggests vaccine works against virus variants
New research has shown that Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine can protect against a mutation found in two highly contagious variants of the virus spreading in UK and South Africa.
The variants share a common mutation – a slight alteration of the spike protein coating the virus that could be responsible for greater transmissibility.
The not-yet peer-reviewed study by Pfizer and scientists from the University of Texas Medical Branch indicated the vaccine was effective in neutralising virus with the mutation of the spike protein.
And finally…
*) Turkey launches fifth-generation satellite
Turkey's new communications satellite that has been launched from the US-based company SpaceX at Cape Canaveral in Florida.
With Turksat 5A in service, Turkey will add the Middle East and Africa to its coverage area, the country’s transportation minister said.
Turkey will launch another communication satellite, the Turksat 5B, in June.
*) Mob storms US Capitol as Trump accused of 'coup'
We start in the US, where Donald Trump's supporters stormed a session of Congress to certify Joe Biden's election win, triggering unprecedented chaos and accusations the president was attempting a coup.
At least four people died in the ensuing violence as supporters gathered outside Capitol Hill with a demand to overturn the presidential election results.
In surreal scenes, Trump supporters stormed the Capitol building, smashed windows and forced lawmakers into hiding.
Social media platforms Facebook and Twitter temporarily blocked Trump's accounts for what they call inflammatory posts during the chaos.
*) Some 2.2 million displaced by fighting in Ethiopia’s Tigray
Around 2.2 million people have been displaced within Ethiopia’s Tigray region since fighting erupted there in November last year.
That’s according to an official in the interim administration in Tigray appointed by the federal government.
Ethiopia's government restricted access to Tigray after fighting flared between its troops and the TPLF, a political party governing the province.
*) Covid-19 claimed lives of over 600 journalists
The coronavirus has taken the lives of 600 journalists since March 1 last year, a press freedom organisation says.
The Press Emblem Campaign said that 303 deaths were from Latin America.
Some 145 deaths were recorded in Asia, with 94 in Europe, 32 in North America, and 28 in Africa.
*) WikiLeaks founder Assange denied bail in UK
A court in the UK has denied bail to Julian Assange, ruling he must stay in a British prison.
The judge is the same one who blocked the Australian's extradition to the US a few days ago.
The founder of Wikileaks has been incarcerated at London's Belmarsh Prison since April 2019.
And finally…
*) Bitcoin hits new record high, breaks above $35,000
Bitcoin has broken a new record, rising to a high of thirty-five thousand, eight hundred and seventy-nine dollars ($35,879).
The rise extends a rally that has seen the digital currency increase in value by more than 800 percent since mid-March.
Bitcoin's advance has reflected expectations it will become a mainstream payment method.
*) Gulf Arab leaders sign declaration to ease rift with Qatar
Gulf Arab leaders have ended a three-year blockade against Qatar.
In a symbolic sign of warming relations, the Saudi crown prince embraced Qatar's emir after he arrived for a regional summit.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt cut ties with Qatar in 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism and being close to Iran, an accusation Doha denied.
*) Ballot counting underway in Georgia ran-off election
Democrats have claimed a major victory in the Georgia run-offs where candidate Raphael Warnock has declared he's won a seat in the US Senate.
On the second senate seat, Democrat Jon Ossoff and his Republican challenger David Perdue are still in a neck and neck contest.
Republicans only need one seat to retain their majority, but Democrats need to win both.
The outcome could change how the incoming Biden administration works with lawmakers.
*) Dozens of Hong Kong activists arrested
Hong Kong police have arrested more than 50 opposition lawmakers and activists under its national security law.
The new security law criminalises acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and collusion with foreign powers to intervene in the its affairs.
In recent months, Hong Kong has jailed many activists including Joshua Wong and Agnes Chow for their involvement in anti-Beijing protests.
*) Iran issues Interpol notice for Trump's arrest
Iran has issued a second arrest warrant for US President Donald Trump and 47 other US officials over last year’s killing of general Qasem Soleimani.
Iran has also requested Interpol to issue a red notice for their arrest, a request comes two weeks before Trump has to leave the White House.
Interpol said it does not consider requests for a red notice that are deemed to be motivated by political or military concerns.
And finally…
*) Premier League sees record number of Covid-19 cases
The English Premier League has announced that a total of 40 individuals have tested positive for Covid-19.
Since the new season kicked off, 171 individuals in the English top-flight have tested positive for the virus in 19 rounds of testing.
The league did not name the people who tested positive but said they will self-isolate for 10 days.
*) Saudi Arabia to lift Qatar embargo
Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE and Bahrain are reopening their airspace and land and sea borders to Qatar after three years.
Riyadh and its allies launched the blockade in 2017, accusing Doha of supporting extremist groups and having warm ties with Iran.
A senior Trump administration official said that an agreement to end their dispute is to be signed in Saudi Arabia.
*) UK judge refuses US extradition of Assange
A British judge has rejected a US’ request to extradite Julian Assange to face espionage charges over the publication of secret US documents.
District Judge Vanessa Baraitser said that Assange was likely to commit suicide if sent to the US.
Lawyers for the government said they would appeal the decision, as the Department of Justice will continue to seek the WikiLeaks founder’s extradition.
*) Iran prepares for drone exercise as tensions rise in region
Tensions are brewing in the Middle East ahead of the administration change in Washington.
Iran recently announced that it had begun enriching uranium up to 20 percent in violation of Tehran's 2015 nuclear pact with six major powers.
Citing threats from Iran, the Pentagon said it was reversing the decision to bring back aircraft carrier USS Nimitz home from the Gulf.
*) Pakistan provincial court bans virginity tests on rape victims
A top provincial court in Pakistan has outlawed virginity tests on rape victims, a longstanding practice in the country.
Critics of the tests, including an invasive "two-finger test”, had filed petitions in the eastern city of Lahore in a bid to have them outlawed.
The World Health Organization has said there is no scientific merit to the examinations and considers them a human rights violation. And finally…
*) Alibaba founder disappears, fueling speculation about his whereabouts
Alibaba founder Jack Ma’s absence from public view has raised more questions after the Wall Street Journal reported that China aimed to take a bigger role in his empire.
Jack Ma has not appeared in a public setting since a late October forum in Shanghai where he blasted China’s regulatory system in a speech.
Chinese regulators have zeroed in on Ma's businesses since his October speech, including launching an antitrust probe into Alibaba.
*) Leaked call reveals Trump pressured Georgia election official
US President Donald Trump has attempted to influence the results of the November 3 presidential election, according to a Washington Post report.
The newspaper published a recording of a telephone call Trump had with election officials in the state of Georgia.
Trump is heard pressuring Georgia's secretary of state to "find" enough votes in an attempt to overturn the state's election result.
*) Gunmen kill 11 Shia Hazara coal miners in Pakistan
Gunmen have killed at least 11 miners from Pakistan’s minority Shia Hazaras in Balochistan province.
The attack took place early on Sunday morning near a coal mine in the Mach area of Balochistan's Bolan district.
Initial investigation revealed the attackers identified the miners as being from the Hazara community before taking them away for execution.
*) India's approval of homegrown vaccine criticised over lack of data
India's emergency-use approval of a locally developed vaccine has faced criticism.
Industry experts and opposition lawmakers said the step was taken without publishing efficacy data for the coronavirus vaccine by Bharat Biotech.
India also approved the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine which is being produced locally for poorer countries but has banned its export until local demand has been met.
*) Israeli prosecutors spell out charges against Netanyahu
Israeli prosecutors have released an amended indictment spelling out detailed corruption charges against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
It is alleged there were 315 incidents of Walla news agency being asked to make its coverage more favourable for Netanyahu and his family.
The prosecutors said there were indications that Netanyahu was personally involved in 150 of those incidents.
And finally…
*) Over two-millennia-old Aphrodite temple discovered in Turkey
A team of Turkish scientists and archaeologists have discovered the 2,500-year-old remains of an Aphrodite temple in Turkey’s Urla-Cesme peninsula.
Aphrodite is an ancient goddess from Greek mythology associated with passion, beauty, pleasure and procreation.
The first traces of the temple were discovered back in 2016 and were announced to the world by a journal article.
*) New year, same dilemmas
It is officially 2021 but 2020's problems are still looming.
This year, Britain will learn to go it alone after ending nearly 50 years in the EU common market.
And US President Donald Trump's first term is ending, paving the way for a Biden presidency and a raft of policy changes.
This will all be under the shadow of the Covid-19 pandemic as rich countries begin vaccine rollouts but that relief remains elusive to most poor countries.
*) Brexit comes into effect
We can all stop complaining about long quibbling Brexit negotiations now because the UK has now officially exited the European Union.
Britain is no longer bound by EU rules as new policies on trades, travels, immigration, and security co-operation come into effect.
The immediate consequence is an end to the free movement of more than 500 million people between Britain and the 27 EU states.
*) UN ends peacekeeping mission in Sudan’s Darfur
On to another exit, the United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur has ended after 13 years of peacekeeping in the Sudanese region.
The phased withdrawal of some 8,000 of the UN’s armed and civilian personnel will begin in January and be completed within six months.
UN troops entered the area after fighting erupted in 2003 between ethnic minority rebels and the Arab-dominated government, killing 300,000 people.
*) US to move aircraft carrier out of Mideast amid Iran tension
To the Middle East now, where the United States has decided to move its aircraft carrier out of the region.
The decision comes two days after the US military flew strategic bombers over the Gulf as a show of force against Iran.
Washington said the bombers were meant to deter Tehran from American or allied targets in the region.
And finally…
*) World ushers in New Year in shadow of pandemic
Hello, 2021. This New Year’s Eve was celebrated like no other, with Covid-19 pandemic restrictions limiting crowds.
After a grinding year that has seen at least 1.8 million people die from the virus, fresh waves of infection have sparked renewed lockdowns globally.
But China’s Wuhan, where the virus first appeared last year, saw thousands gather to ring in the new year.
Daily News Brief for Thursday, December 31st:
*) Brexit is finally real
We begin in the UK where a Brexit deal with the EU has been granted the royal assent by the queen and support by Britain's parliament.
The deal, which is now enshrined in British law, comes into effect at 11pm London time on the 31st when the UK finally leaves the EU's single market.
The deal delivers control over UK law, money and borders and trade deals, but business and travel with Europe will involve more red tape.
*) Deadly blast hits Yemen’s Aden
Explosions have hit an airport in Yemen’s southern city of Aden, as the newly formed government arrived from Saudi Arabia.
At least 26 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the blast that occurred as hundreds gathered at the airport to greet the delegation.
The cabinet members were unharmed and taken to the city's presidential palace.
*) Iran to pay $150,000 to each family of Ukraine crash victims
Iran has announced that it will pay $150,000 to each family of those killed in the accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane on January 8.
Kiev called the move "unacceptable", arguing the compensation amount should be the subject of negotiations.
Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 crashed shortly after taking off from Tehran, killing all 176 people aboard.
Tehran admitted three days later that its forces mistakenly shot down the Kiev-bound plane after firing two missiles, amid US-Iran tensions.
*) Argentina legalises abortion
Argentina’s Senate has passed a bill legalising elective abortion after a marathon 12-hour session, clearing its final hurdle to become law.
Abortion will now be legal up to the fourteenth week of pregnancy, and will be legal after that period in cases of rape or danger to the mother’s life.
Argentina is the largest Latin American country to legalise abortion in a region where the Catholic Church has held cultural and political sway for centuries.
And finally…
*) Brazil prosecutors look into alleged Neymar New Year bash
Football star Neymar is in hot water over reports that he is organising a New Year's Eve party at his Brazillian home despite the coronavirus pandemic.
Brazilian prosecutors are investigating the claims and asked Neymar to clarify any health measures in place and the number of guests.
Sources close to the striker said he was not planning on hosting a party at his pad near Rio de Janeiro.
*) First batch of China's Sinovac vaccines arrives in Turkey
A plane carrying the first batch of Covid-19 vaccines made by China’s SinoVac has arrived in Turkey.
The Turkish Airlines plane carrying three million doses of vaccines for 1.5 million people landed at Esenboga Airport in capital Ankara. Turkey's Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said that the first 20 million doses of 50 million ordered from Sinovac will be delivered during December and January. *) Trump’s $2,000 checks stall in Senate as GOP blocks vote
President Donald Trump's push for bigger $2,000 Covid-19 relief checks has been blocked by the Republican-controlled Senate. The roadblock mounted by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell may not be sustainable as pressure mounts. The issue to raise relief cheques from $600 for millions of Americans is a rare occasion that has not only divided the Republicans but put Trump on the same side as the Democrats.
*) Turkey, UK ink to extend free-trade deal
Turkey and the United Kingdom have extended their free-trade deal, days before Brexit, to keep up the existing flow of goods.
The trade ministers of two countries signed the agreement in a televised video conference call.
Turkish Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan said the deal will take effect on January 1, 2021, ensuring a quick transition after the existing deal ends.
*) Magnitude 6.4 earthquake hits Croatia
A strong earthquake has hit Croatia that left at least seven people dead and injured several others causing considerable damage to roofs **(rooves like hoof/hooves--British pronunciation) and buildings. The tremor was felt as far afield as Vienna while the damage was concentrated in and around Petrinja, a town at the south of capital Zagreb. The GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences said the quake hit at a depth of 10 kilometres. And finally…
*) Boeing 737 MAX returns to US skies
The first commercial flight of a Boeing 737 MAX has taken off in the US following its grounding in the aftermath of two deadly crashes. Boeing struggled through 20 months that the plane was barred from skies globally, a situation made worse by the Covid-19 pandemic. The planemaker has sought to reassure the public over the aircraft's safety after it was cleared by US regulators in November to resume flights.
Fate of President Donald Trump's $2,000 Covid-19 relief cheques now rests with GOP-led Senate, and drones could soon be making commercial delivery of packages in the US
*) US House approves $2,000 Covid-19 relief bill
The US House has voted overwhelmingly to increase Covid-19 relief cheques to $2,000, sending the bill to the GOP-controlled Senate.
The new measure, long-backed by the Democrats, would provide more money to low-income Americans only.
By sending the measure to the Senate, Democrats are using the rare point of agreement with Trump to advance the proposal, or at least put Republicans on record against it.
*) Telecom towers targeted in Indian farmer protests
Protesters in India have attacked more than 1,500 masts of companies that they believe have profited from new farm laws at their expense.
Tens of thousands of farmers have been demonstrating near the capital New Delhi to protest new laws implemented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.
Farmers leaders say the reforms will lead to a takeover of the agriculture business by Indian conglomerates.
*) Three French soldiers killed in Mali
At least three French soldiers were killed in Mali after an improvised explosive device hit their armoured vehicle.
France has more than 5,000 troops deployed in West Africa to help fight militant groups there as part of Operation Barkhane.
Militants, who were forced from power in northern Mali after a 2013 French-led operation, now launch frequent attacks in the region.
*) Saudi court hands jail sentence to women's rights activist
A Saudi terrorism court has sentenced prominent women's rights activist Loujain al Hathloul to five years and eight months in prison.
Hathloul has been held since 2018 after being arrested along with at least a dozen other women's rights activists.
The court suspended two years and 10 months of her sentence.
And finally…
*) US to allow small drones to fly over people and at night
Small drones will be allowed to fly over people and at night in the United States.
Most drones will need to be equipped so they can be identified remotely by law enforcement officials.
Drones are the fastest-growing segment in US transportation, and the latest move will potentially give a boost to commercial use of the machines.
*) Trump signs Covid-19 relief bill
US President Donald Trump has averted a government shutdown, by finally signing a $2.4 trillion package that includes Covid-19 relief funding.
The White House says the Senate will now begin a process for a vote to increase direct payments to jobless Americans to 2,000 dollars.
The bill's signing comes after confusion and uncertainty over whether those out of work would be able to pay their rent and buy groceries.
*) Central African Republic votes under threat of violence
Voters in the Central African Republic have participated in general elections held by a government under attack by rebels.
Militias hostile to President Faustin-Archange Touadera*, who is seeking a second term, have recently stepped up attacks over perceived vote-rigging.
Tensions rose after the Central African Republic's constitutional court rejected several candidacies, including that of former president Francois Bozize.
*) GCC discusses steps to resolve Qatar dispute
Saudi Arabia's King Salman has told the Gulf Cooperation Council to invite all members, including Qatar, to its summit in Riyadh on January fifth.
The invitation comes amid hopes the three-year-long dispute between Saudi Arabia and its allies and Qatar may be settled.
Earlier this month, Kuwait said that progress had been made between the Saudis and Qataris towards resolving the dispute.
*) Niger votes in historic elections
Elections in Niger over the weekend are expected to seal, for the first time, a peaceful handover between elected presidents.
A smooth transition would be a ray of hope rare for a country that has seen several coups and faces poverty and deadly violence.
Some 7.4 million Nigeriens were registered to vote to elect legislators and the successor to President Mahamadou Issoufou.
And finally…
*) Ronaldo crowned player of the century
Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has been named player of the century at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards.
Beating out Barcelona's Leo Messi and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, Ronaldo was voted best player of the 2000s by a 23-person jury.
The five-time UEFA Champions League winner led the Portugal national team to win their first-ever major title, the UEFA Euro 2016.
*) UK, EU strike a Brexit trade deal
British and EU negotiators have agreed on a new free trade deal after marathon talks in Brussels.
The deal will come into force on January 1st, and averts the potential chaos of tariffs and quotas.
Last-minute negotiations between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen included haggling over fishing quotas.
*) UK finds second Covid-19 variants linked to South Africa
A new, potentially more transmittable, variant of the virus that causes Covid-19 has been found in Britain in cases linked to South Africa.
Britain said that two people infected with the new variant are contacts of cases who travelled from South Africa.
Scientists in South Africa believe the variant is more infectious and could hit younger people.
Meanwhile, Italy’s national carrier Alitalia has resumed flights from London after shutting the route down for several days.
*) Trump throws pandemic relief into doubt
Now to the US, where disputes between lawmakers over the 900-billion-dollar coronavirus relief package are threatening to shut down the government.
Congress approved the package on Monday but President Trump refused to sign it, demanding higher stimulus cheques for Americans.
Trump’s demand for $2,000 cheques for most Americans was swiftly rejected by House Republicans, throwing a massive virus relief and government funding bill into chaos.
*) Pakistani court orders release of man charged in Daniel Pearl killing
A Pakistani court has ordered that the man charged in the 2002 murder of American journalist Daniel Pearl be freed.
The order from Sindh High Court overturned a Supreme Court decision in September that Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh should remain in custody.
Sheikh was sentenced to death and three others were sentenced to life in prison for their role in the murder of the Wall Street Journal reporter.
And finally…
*) Coronavirus dampens Christmas joy in Bethlehem and elsewhere
Christmas has arrived but the coronavirus has put a damper on festivities.
Celebrations in Europe are scaled back this year as virus infections surge across the continent with a new variant that may be more contagious.
Subdued scenes were repeated across the world as festive family gatherings and packed prayers were pared back or cancelled.
*) President Trump grants clemency to more allies
US President Donald Trump has issued a new raft of pardons for allies, this time granting clemency to 26 people.
The pardons that include Trump’s former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and associate Roger Stone have sparked fresh outrage.
Also on the list was Charles Kushner, the father of Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, who was convicted of tax evasion in 2005.
*) Announcement of UK-EU trade deal expected Thursday morning
After months of painful, stuttering talks, UK and EU negotiators appear on the brink of reaching a post-Brexit trade deal.
An official from the bloc said the announcement on the deal is expected on Thursday morning with negotiations still going through the details.
The front pages of several British newspapers already proclaimed victory for Prime Minister Boris Johnson in the quest for a pact.
*) Fire breaks out in Bosnia migrant camp
A migrant camp in northwestern Bosnia has been destroyed in a blaze that a UN official blamed on former residents.
There were no injuries reported since the UN migration agency had earlier withdrawn residents from the camp for winter refurbishing.
The Lipa tent camp near the Croatian border once housed 1,200 migrants and had been criticised by rights groups over its squalid conditions.
*) More than 100 killed gunned down in Ethiopia
Gunmen have killed more than 100 people in the latest massacre along ethnic lines in western Ethiopia.
The attack in Benishangul-Gumuz region occurred a day after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited the region and spoke about recent massacres.
Ethnic tensions are a major challenge as he tries to promote national unity in a country with more than 80 ethnic groups.
And finally…
*) Facebook bans Australian celebrity chef over virus misinformation
Facebook has banned Australian celebrity chef and conspiracy theorist Pete Evans for repeatedly spreading misinformation about the coronavirus.
With more than a million social media followers, Evans had been an influential promoter of conspiracy theories about the pandemic.
Facebook said it would not "allow anyone to share misinformation about Covid-19 that could lead to imminent physical harm".
*) US President Trump pardons 15, including Republican allies
US President Trump has pardoned 15 people, including some Republican allies and ex-government contractors convicted in a 2007 massacre in Baghdad.
He also pardoned his 2016 campaign adviser George Papadopoulos, who was convicted of lying to federal investigators probing Russian meddling in the 2016 election.
Despite speculation, though, the list excluded members of Trump's own family, his personal attorney Rudy Giuliani and the president himself.
*) Morocco signs deals with Israel cementing normalisation
Moroccan and Israeli officials have signed several deals, as the two countries normalise diplomatic relations.
A US-Israeli delegation earlier arrived in Rabat from Tel Aviv on the first direct commercial flight between Israel and Morocco.
Morocco followed the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Sudan to normalise ties with Israel.
*) Israel to hold snap election in March
Meanwhile, in Israel, the parliament has been dissolved after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Benny Gantz failed to reach a deal on a national budget.
The deadlock has triggered a snap election, to be held in March. It will be Israel's fourth general election in the last two years.
Netanyahu has been the target of regular protests over corruption charges and his handling of the pandemic.
*) Russia confirms sending 300 soldiers to CAR
Rebels in the Central African Republic (CAR) have seized Bambari, the country's fourth-largest city.
At the Central African Republic's request, Russia and Rwanda sent military personnel to support the troubled country ahead of elections.
Russia confirmed it has sent 300 military instructors to the country at the request of its leadership to help counter a surge in rebel violence.
And finally…
*) Google to feature song on homepage for first time
Google will feature a song on its homepage for the first time.
Commissioned by the tech giant, the Peter CottonTale-produced “Together” features Chance the Rapper, Cynthia Erivo and the Chicago Children’s Choir.
It will land on Google's homepage December 23 and is also featured in Google’s “Year in Search 2020” campaign.
*) US Senate passes $900B Covid-19 relief bill
The US Congress has passed a $900 billion Covid-19 aid bill that combines virus-fighting funds with financial relief for individuals and businesses.
The relief package sped through the House in a matter of hours with Senate following soon after, sending the bill to President Donald Trump.
Before the bill was passed, President-elect Joe Biden received his first dose of Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine in Delaware.
*) UK isolated over new virus strain
More than two dozen countries from India to Argentina have suspended flights from the UK to contain a faster-spreading variant of Covid-19.
Global stocks along with oil prices and the pound have fallen after the UK reported the new strain.
Some countries also banned flights from South Africa after it said last week that a new virus mutation may be responsible for a surge in infections.
*) Al Jazeera journalists targeted by spyware
Dozens of journalists at Al Jazeera have had their mobile communications intercepted by sophisticated electronic surveillance.
That’s according to cybersecurity watchdog Citizen Lab after a months-long investigation.
The news outlet said it approached the watchdog after receiving suspicious messages on a device used to contact people for comment.
The hack reportedly used Pegasus spyware developed by Israel's NSO Group.
*) Tech giants battle Israel’s NSO
Some Big Tech companies are battling Israeli hacking company NSO in a US court, calling the firm's tools "powerful and dangerous."
NSO says that, because it sells digital break-in tools to police and spy agencies, it should benefit from "sovereign immunity".
But the tech giants argue that awarding sovereign immunity to NSO would lead to a proliferation of hacking technology among foreign governments.
And finally…
*) Jupiter and Saturn say hello
Jupiter and Saturn have come within the planetary kissing range in an intimacy that will not occur again until 2080.
Despite appearances, the two gas planets were actually more than 730 million kilometres apart.
This "great conjunction", as it is known to astronomers, is a celestial phenomenon not seen in 397 years.
*) Countries bar arrivals from UK over new virus strain
A slew of countries worldwide have banned arrivals from the UK over a new highly infectious coronavirus strain.
Among the countries banning arrivals are Turkey, several EU nations, Canada, Chile and Argentina.
Scientists first discovered the new variant – which they believe is 70 percent more transmissible – in a patient in September.
Experts say the UK mutation is "very unlikely" to be resistant to current vaccines.
*) US Congress reaches deal on virus stimulus package
US lawmakers have agreed on a nearly $900 billion Covid-19 relief package for millions of Americans.
The package includes aid for vaccine distribution and logistics, extra jobless benefits and a new round of $600 stimulus cheques.
The much-awaited deal comes after months of partisan debate and finger-pointing as well as last-minute negotiations.
*) Ethnic parties are the winner in Bosnia's Mostar
Early results of the local election in the Bosnian town of Mostar show most votes going to Croat and Bosniak parties.
A coalition of multi-ethnic moderate parties, the BH Bloc, won enough votes to act as a kingmaker in the future 35-member city council.
Croat and Bosniak communities in the town have been separated since the end of the civil war in the mid-1990s.
*) Abduction of school students foiled in Nigeria
Gunmen in Nigeria abducted more than 80 school students on Saturday but the pupils were rescued by security forces soon after.
The bandits on Saturday night abducted four people and stolen a dozen cows in Katsina state when they ran into the schoolchildren who were going home.
The foiled abduction comes less than two days after the release of 344 schoolboys, who were kidnapped in the same state last week.
And finally…
*) Denmark to exhume minks culled over coronavirus
Four million minks culled in Denmark over a coronavirus strain will be dug up next year to prevent pollution.
That’s according to the government who has faced criticism for its management of the "mink crisis".
If lawmakers agree, the mink carcasses will be dug up and burned in six months once the risk of infection has completely passed.
*) Kidnapped Nigerian schoolboys released
More than 300 schoolboys kidnapped by Boko Haram, have been released in Nigeria.
The boys are now on their way home, with 17 of them rescued during a military operation.
The incident has sparked outrage in the country with many saying the government isn't doing enough to protect its people from the terror group.
*) Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine gets US approval
The US Food and Drug Administration advisory panel has endorsed the emergency use of Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine.
The company will initially rollout close to 6 million doses across the country this weekend.
The approval comes as California sets new records for Covid-19 infections and hospitalisations.
*) Denmark defines rape as sex without explicit consent
Denmark has strengthened its rape laws by criminalising sex without explicit consent.
The law will now specify that sexual consent must be given voluntarily, and as an expression of an individual’s free will through words or action.
Under the old legislation, prosecutors had to show the rapist had used violence or attacked someone who was unable to resist.
*) Cyclone Yasa weakens after hitting Fiji
Cyclone Yasa has killed at least two people and destroyed dozens of homes in Fiji.
Officials say the devastation wasn’t as widespread as they had initially feared.
Yasa is weakening as it moves southeast over some of Fiji’s outer islands.
And finally…
*) Sony pulls Cyberpunk from PS stores
Sony is pulling Cyberpunk 2077 from PlayStation stores around the world, citing customer satisfaction.
It comes after complaints of bugs, compatibility issues and even health risks in the open-world, action-adventure game.
It’s reportedly one of the most expensive video games ever made, costing developer CD Projekt RED $330M.
*) Another grim Covid-19 millstone for US
The US records another grim milestone after 3,700 people died of Covid-19 in the last 24 hours.
The country has been experiencing a major surge in infections for over a month now, with some 113,000 people being hospitalised.
Health officials fear the situation will become even more dire following end of year celebrations, including the Christmas holidays.
*) WHO issues Covid-19 warning to Europe
The World Health Organization says Europe will face another Covid-19 surge early next year.
It's advising people to wear face masks and maintain distance where possible during the holidays.
As a second wave sweeps over the continent, many countries have once again introduced tough measures to curb the spread.
*) Covid-19 infections in Brazil top 7M
Things are not getting any better in Brazil after its Covid-19 cases passed the 7 million mark.
Over 180,000 people have died from the virus there.
Brazil has the third highest number of infections in the world after the US and India.
*) Snow storm to hit US east coast
America's east coast is facing its biggest snow storm in years, with at least 50 million people likely to be affected.
Up to 60cm of snow is expected to fall along the eastern seaboard.
The heaviest hit areas are expected to be Maryland and Pennsylvania.
New York City officials say winds of up to 80km/h are expected in the city, along with 30cm of snow.
And finally…
*) Chang’e 5’s back home after its mission to the moon
Chinese lunar probe Chang'e 5 is back on Earth, and has brought back rocks, soil and debris from the moon.
The capsule landed in Inner Mongolia earlier this morning.
Two of the Chang’e 5’s four modules set down on the moon on December 1st, and collected about 2kg of samples by scooping them up from the surface and by drilling 2m into the moon’s crust.
*) Biden starts nominating his cabinet picks
Joe Biden has nominated Pete Buttigieg as secretary of transportation and plans to pick former Michigan governor Jennifer Granholm as his energy secretary.
Biden also plans to pick Gina McCarthy, a former Environmental Protection Agency head, as the White House climate tsar.
All three will be central to Biden’s plan to quickly cut climate-damaging petroleum emissions.
*) Nigerian authorities in talks with kidnappers of schoolchildren
Local authorities in Nigeria say talks are underway with kidnappers who seized hundreds of students, an attack claimed by Boko Haram.
At least 333 boys are missing after heavily armed men attacked their boarding school in the town of Kankara.
More than 100 gunmen on motorcycles stormed the rural school, forcing students to flee and hide.
*) US indicts Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard on sex trafficking charges
Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard has been charged in the US with sex trafficking and racketeering.
Canadian police arrested Nygard in Winnipeg for crimes that targeted dozens of women and underage girls over a quarter-century in three countries.
Acting US Attorney Audrey Strauss says since 1995, Nygard has been using his influence to "recruit and maintain" victims in the US, Canada and the Bahamas.
*) Poor nations might not have access to Covid-19 vaccine until 2022
At least a fifth of the world's population may not have access to a Covid-19 vaccine until 2022, a study shows.
Countries including the US, UAE and Britain have already begun rolling out immunisation programmes, reserving more than half of 2021’s potential doses.
The study estimates that up to 40% of vaccines from leading manufacturers might be available for low- and middle-income countries.
And finally…
*) Australian watchdog sues Facebook over 'misleading' VPN app
Australia's consumer watchdog has launched legal action against Facebook alleging the social media giant "misled" thousands of citizens.
It’s accusing Facebook and its partners Facebook Israel and Onavo of misleading people by collecting user data from a free VPN service advertised as private.
*) Azerbaijan, Armenia exchange prisoners as part of peace deal
Azerbaijan and Armenia have exchanged prisoners more than a month after a peace deal was signed to end fighting over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.
A plane with some of the captives landed in Azerbaijan on Monday afternoon.
Armenia Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Avinyan announced that 44 prisoners returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan.
*) 'Democracy prevailed': Biden aims to unify divided nation
Joe Biden says US democracy proved "resilient" against Donald Trump's "abuse of power" after the Electoral College confirmed him as the next president.
Biden said Trump and his allies "refused to respect the will of the people, the rule of law, and refused to honour our Constitution."
California, the most populous US state, put Biden over the 270 votes needed to win the Electoral College.
*) Turkey to take necessary steps after US sanctions over S-400
Turkey says it will respond to US sanctions on the purchase of S-400 air defence missiles from Russia.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry said that Washington’s one-sided sanctions were beyond understanding.
The ministry called on the US to “turn back as soon as possible from this bad mistake,” adding that Ankara was ready for dialogue and diplomacy.
*) Ghislaine Maxwell proposes $28.5M bail package, proclaims innocence
Ghislaine Maxwell has proclaimed her innocence and proposed a $28.5 million bail package in a renewed effort to be freed from jail this year.
The British socialite is facing criminal charges for helping late financier Jeffrey Epstein trap girls he then sexually abused.
Maxwell said she has been married since 2016, and that she and her husband would post a $22.5 million bond, secured by all their assets, toward bail.
And finally…
*) A Lim Kim rallies from 5 down to win US Women’s Open
A Lim Kim has won the US Women's Open in her first appearance at Champions Golf Club's Cypress Creek course in Houston.
Kim notched birdies on the final three holes to surge to the lead and ultimately win the weather-interrupted championship.
Overcoming a five-shot deficit to win, Kim tied the largest final-round comeback in Open history, becoming the seventh player to do so.
*) Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine shipments begin in historic US effort
The first of many freezer-packed Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine vials have been delivered to 145 distribution sites across the US.
Another 425 sites are expected to receive it on Tuesday and the remaining 66 on Wednesday.
The rollout of the vaccine ushers in the biggest vaccination effort in US history, one that health officials hope the American public will embrace.
*) US agencies hacked, Russia a possible culprit
Staying in the US... hackers believed to be working for Russia have reportedly been monitoring internal email traffic at the Treasury Department.
The hackers also gained access to an agency that decides internet and telecommunications policy.
The breach triggered a National Security Council meeting at the White House over the weekend.
*) UK and EU extend Brexit talks after ditching deadline
Britain and the EU will return to the negotiating table on Monday after agreeing to abandon a Brexit trade deal deadline.
Both say they're willing to go "the extra mile" to find a last-minute trade deal.
The announcement suggests the two sides may have made progress on the issues of fair competition and access to fishing in UK waters, ahead of a December 31st deadline.
*) Deadlock in talks between Indian farmers and govt
For more than two weeks, tens of thousands of farmers in India have been protesting the government's new agriculture laws.
Demonstrators intensified their efforts on Sunday after six rounds of talks between union leaders and government officials failed.
Farmers say the reforms allow private companies to dominate the industry and demand the laws be repealed.
And finally…
*) Chinese spacecraft begins journey back to Earth
China's Chang'e 5 [CHAANG-ER] lunar probe has begun its three-day journey back to Earth.
The capsule is bringing back rocks, soil and debris from the moon.
China has set up labs to analyse the samples for age and composition to better understand the moon's origins.
*) Israel and Morocco normalise relations
Israel and Morocco agree to normalise relations, in a deal brokered by the US.
It makes Morocco the fourth Arab country to strike a deal with Israel since August.
As part of the deal, the US agreed to recognise Morocco’s claim over the long-disputed Western Sahara region.
*) US FDA advisory panel approves use of Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine
Pfizer-BioNTech's Covid-19 vaccine has been given the green light by a US Federal Drug Administration advisory panel.
A final decision from the regulatory body is expected within the next few days.
The FDA usually follows the recommendation of the committee.
*) Lebanon PM and former ministers charged over Beirut blast
Lebanon's outgoing PM and three former ministers have been charged with negligence over August's port explosion in Beirut.
A fire triggered the detonation of more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, causing an explosion that killed hundreds of people.
The charges were based on verified written communication, warning the officials about the dangerous stockpile of explosive material.
*) UN food agency receives Nobel Peace Prize
The UN's World Food Programme has received the Nobel Peace Prize.
Executive director David Beasley was awarded the medal and diploma in Rome.
The UN agency is the largest humanitarian organisation battling famine, and feeds tens of millions of people every year.
And finally…
*) Disney+ streaming plans goes into hyper-speed
Plans for Disney+ move into hyperspeed after it presents its massive plans.
Over the next few years, Disney will stream 10 “Star Wars” series spin-offs, 10 Marvel series, and 15 live-action Pixar movies and series.
With 86.8M subscribers worldwide, the company predicts it could reach between 230-260 million by 2024.
*) Tax probe launched into Joe Biden’s son
Joe Biden's son, Hunter, says he’s under investigation for his tax affairs.
Prosecutors have been examining whether Hunter and his associates violated tax and money laundering laws in their business dealings with foreign countries, including China.
President Donald Trump targeted Hunter throughout the election campaign for using his father's political connections.
*) UN says Ethiopia's conflict has 'appalling' impact on civilians
The UN says Ethiopia's situation has been spiraling out of control with appalling impact on civilians and urgently needs outside monitoring.
But Ethiopia is rejecting calls for independent investigations into the deadly fighting in its Tigray region, saying it doesn’t need a babysitter.
The UN announced a new agreement with Ethiopia on much needed humanitarian aid.
*) Albanians protest over fatal police shooting of man breaking Covid curfew
Clashes broke out in Albania’s Tirana as hundreds protested over the fatal police shooting of a 25-year-old man who had breached a coronavirus curfew.
Protesters threw stones and flares at police, the interior ministry, the Tirana city hall and the main government buildings.
They also tried to force their way into the ministry and the government complex that includes the PM’s office.
*) Concerns over allergic reactions to Covid vaccine rise in US and UK
Britain's medical regulator warns that people with a history of serious allergic reactions shouldn’t get the Covid-19 vaccine from Pfizer-BioNTech.
This comes as investigators look into whether two reactions on the first day of the UK’s vaccination programme were linked to the shot.
Pfizer and BioNTech said they were working with investigators to better understand each case and its causes.
And finally…
*) US sues Facebook for ‘predatory’ conduct
Facebook could be forced to sell its assets, such as WhatsApp and Instagram, after the US and 48 of its states, filed two antitrust lawsuits against the company.
The social media giant is accused of abusing its market power to crush smaller rivals.
New York Attorney General Letitia James is among those calling on courts to break up the trillion dollar-company.
*) Biden vows 100M vaccines in his first 100 days
Joe Biden has pledged to distribute 100 million vaccine doses in his first 100 days in office.
Biden made the announcement after introducing his administration's coronavirus response team.
He's also pushing Congress to approve more funding to distribute a vaccine.
US regulators have confirmed the Pfizer/Bio-N-Tech vaccine is 95 percent effective, paving the way for it to be approved for emergency use.
*) UK, EU leaders to meet as post-Brexit deal nears deadline
British PM Boris Johnson will meet with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to make a last-minute push for a Brexit trade deal.
Talks are blocked over the issue of fair competition, with UK refusing to accept a mechanism that allows the EU to retaliate swiftly if European firms are at a disadvantage.
If Britain leaves the EU single market in three weeks without a trade deal, the delays that travellers and freight will face at its borders with the EU, will be compounded by import tariffs that will drive up prices.
*) Ethiopia admits shooting at UN team visiting Tigray
Ethiopia has admitted that its troops fired at and briefly detained United Nations workers in the restive Tigray region.
The UN team was reportedly trying to visit a refugee camp on Sunday when the incident occured.
Ethiopia says the humanitarian workers ignored instructions to avoid the area and allegedly broke through two military checkpoints before being stopped at a third.
*) New York court orders CIA to turn over Khashoggi records
A federal court in New York has ordered the CIA to turn over their records relating to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Khashoggi, a columnist for the Washington Post, was murdered in 2018 in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.
In October, Khashoggi's fiancee Hatice Cengiz filed a lawsuit in the US against Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other Saudi nationals accusing them of direct involvement in his killing.
And finally…
*) PSG v Basaksehir UEFA match suspended over racist abuse by official
Tuesday's Champions League match between PSG and Istanbul Basaksehir in Paris, was suspended over an alleged racial slur.
The incident involved Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo and a fourth official.
UEFA has launched a 'thorough investigation' into the incident.
*) Report shows how NZ mosque attacker eluded detection
New Zealand's PM Jacinda Ardern has apologised for the country's security agencies' failure to prevent last year's Christchurch terror attacks.
A newly released report shows New Zealand's security agencies were almost exclusively focused on the Muslim community as a threat and failed to enforce proper checks on firearm licenses.
At least 51 Muslims were killed at two mosques in the attack carried out by a white supremacist.
*) Fauci on coronavirus in US
US infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci is warning that the worst period of pandemic will strike over the next month.
For the past two weeks, almost 3,000 Americans a day have died from the coronavirus and over 105,000 are in critical condition in hospital.
Fauci says he fears that Christmas gatherings will compound the crisis.
*) Britain begins rollout of Covid-19 vaccine
Britain has started rolling out the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, becoming the first Western country to do so.
Older care home residents, their carers, those over 80 years of age and frontline health workers are the first to be inoculated.
Britain is using hospitals, large vaccination centres and community medical centres to distribute the vaccine.
*) Brexit trade talks
UK PM Boris Johnson will meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels in a bid to break a deadlock in Brexit trade deal talks.
Both leaders have agreed to ask their chief negotiators to prepare an overview of the remaining issues.
The leaders will later discuss the differences during a physical meeting this week.
And finally…
*) Breakdancing to debut at 2024 Paris Olympics
Breakdancing is one of four new sports that will debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games.
The other three approved by the Olympic committee are skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing.
The 1970s street dancing sport has over a million participants worldwide.
*) EU, UK resume Brexit trade talks in search of breakthrough
The EU has resumed talks with the UK in Brussels in a bid to salvage a Brexit trade deal.
Three contentious issues remain on the agenda:
Fishing rights, fair competition guarantees, and ways to solve future disputes.
Both sides hope they can secure a deal that governs almost $1 trillion of trade per year.
*) Britain ready to rollout Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine
The first batches of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines have arrived at hospitals in the UK.
Britain is getting set to become the first country to roll out the vaccine.
After approving its use, the government says the first doses will be administered on Tuesday to frontline healthcare workers and those over 80
*) Venezuela counts votes after parliamentary elections
Vote counting is under way after Venezuela's parliamentary elections.
The vote was boycotted by the opposition who say the poll was neither free nor fair.
The contest is for representatives in the National Assembly, which the opposition won control of five years ago.
*) Talks to end Gulf blockade on Qatar resume
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan says an end to the Gulf blockade on Qatar is in sight.
Kuwait and the US, are mediating talks between rivals Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
All parties expressed optimism that a resolution could be reached to the Gulf row that has seen Riyadh and its allies boycott Doha for over three years.
And finally…
*) Animal lovers in Turkey rescue fox after accident
Animal lovers from the Turkish city of Van have helped get a red fox back on his feet.
The animal lost the use of his hind legs after being hit by a car.
But he's now able to wheel himself around with a specially-built cart.
The fox will continue his recovery under the watchful eye of local vets.
*) Bangladesh moves ahead with Rohingya refugee relocation
Authorities in Bangladesh have started sending Rohingya refugees to an isolated island in the Bay of Bengal.
More than 1,600 refugees boarded seven Bangladeshi naval vessels in the port of Chittagong for the trip to Bhashan Char island.
Human rights groups have called for a halt to the process with the UN voicing concern that refugees should be allowed to make a “free and informed decision” about whether to relocate.
*) Azerbaijan: Nearly 2,800 soldiers killed in Karabakh fighting
Azerbaijan has said nearly 2,800 of its soldiers were killed during its conflict with Armenian forces over Nagorno-Karabakh.
The Defence Ministry in Baku said "2,783 servicemen of the Azerbaijani armed forces were killed" in the war. Some 100 soldiers are still missing.
Yerevan had earlier announced that 2,317 Armenian troops died during the conflict.
*) Egyptian rights activists freed after global pressure
Egyptian authorities have released three members of a leading human rights organisation following widespread international criticism.
Security services detained three staff members of the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights after the group gave a briefing to senior diplomats on November 3.
The detentions triggered a broad campaign by international rights activists pressuring Egypt to release the three.
*) Israel warns Iran may attack Israeli targets abroad
Israel has warned that Israeli targets abroad could come under attack by Iran, urging its citizens to avoid travel to the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.
Iran’s clerical and military rulers have blamed Israel for the killing of its top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, threatening revenge.
Israel has neither confirmed nor denied responsibility.
And finally…
*) Warner Bros to stream all of its 2021 flicks
The Warner Bros [WARNER BROTHERS] studio will debut all of its 2021 movies in cinemas and on the HBO Max streaming service on the same day.
The movies, which are expected to include "Godzilla vs. Kong" and "The Suicide Squad", will be available on HBO Max for one month starting on the day of their cinema release.
Warner Bros [WARNER BROTHERS] executives said the strategy was prompted by the coronavirus pandemic which limited trips to the cinema.
*) UK first nation to roll out Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine
The UK has become the first country to approve a clinically authorised Covid-19 vaccine.
Some 800,000 doses are due to arrive in the coming days. The Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine will be rolled out as early as next week.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson says it will take time for everyone to be vaccinated, but care homes, the elderly and the most vulnerable will get priority.
*) President Trump recasts claims of voter fraud
US President Donald Trump has released a video on Twitter, once again claiming voter fraud in last month's presidential election.
Trump refused to concede in his speech. But he has already lost legal battles over the results in several states.
The video comes a day after US Attorney General William Barr said there was no evidence of widespread voter fraud.
*) Afghan government and Taliban reach breakthrough deal
The Afghan government and Taliban have announced a breakthrough deal to move forward with peace talks.
The agreement allows negotiators to move on to other issues, including a much needed ceasefire amid continuing conflict.
After 19 years of war, it is the first written agreement between the sides and has been welcomed by the UN and US.
*) Israeli lawmakers approve preliminary bill to dissolve parliament
Israel could be heading for its fourth election, in less than two years, after lawmakers passed a preliminary vote to dissolve parliament.
The bill was put forward by the opposition but backed by Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition partner Benny Gantz.
Gantz has accused Netanyahu of deliberately delaying budget agreements to hold onto power.
Wednesday's vote requires further readings before a new election is called.
And finally…
*) Historic Liberia war crimes trial to open in Switzerland
A former warlord will become the first Liberian to face a war crimes trial over alleged atrocities during the country's 1990s civil war.
Alieu Kosiah, who was arrested in Switzerland in 2014, will be on trial in Switzerland on Thursday.
He stands accused of murder, rape and a string of other crimes during the first of Liberia's back-to-back civil wars, which together killed some 250,000 people between 1989 and 2003.
*) Hong Kong activists jailed for 2019 protests
Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong has been sentenced to 13.5 months in prison.
Wong, along with activists Agnes Chow and Ivan Lam, pleaded guilty to several charges over anti-Beijing protests outside police headquarters last year.
Chow received a 10-month sentence, while Lam will spend 7 months in jail.
The protests began in opposition to a proposed extradition bill with China.
*) US attorney general refutes election fraud claims
US Attorney General William Barr says there's no evidence of fraud in the US presidential election.
Barr has been one of the closest allies of US President Donald Trump.
His comments make him the most high profile figure within the administration to argue that the election was fair.
*) Swedish mother arrested for locking up her son for 28 years
Police in Sweden have arrested a 70-year-old mother for keeping her son locked up inside their apartment for 28 years.
The man, now 41-years-old, is alleged to have been kept under lock and key since he was 13.
He was found by a relative who had alerted authorities.
According to the relative, the man could barely walk, had almost no teeth and limited speech ability.
*) More refugees flee conflict in Tigray region
Ethiopians are continuing to flee the Tigray region, despite the government claiming victory there.
Hundreds have entered Sudan via the Tekeze river, which separates the two east African nations.
Many say they feared for their lives and decided to take shelter in Sudan.
And finally…
*) Chinese spacecraft lands on the moon
A Chinese spacecraft landed on the moon to bring back lunar rocks to Earth for the first time since the 1970s.
Chang’e 5 landed at 1500 GMT after making a powered descent from its orbiter.
It's the latest venture by China's space programme that has a spacecraft en route to Mars and aims to land a human on the moon.
*) Iran says satellite-based attack killed scientist remotely
A top Iranian security official says the assassination of a nuclear scientist was carried out solely with electronic devices and without anyone present.
Mohsen Fakhrizadeh's funeral was held on Monday in Tehran.
The government has accused Israel of his death, with Iranian General and Chief of Security Ali Shamkhani saying it was a satellite-based attack that caught the country off-guard.
*) Trump suffers another crushing defeat
US President Donald Trump's hopes of overturning the results of the 2020 election appear to be fading.
Two more states, Arizona and Wisconsin, have certified votes for President-elect Joe Biden.
Meanwhile, Joe Biden is set to formally announce former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen as his pick for Secretary of the US Treasury.
*) France to rewrite controversial police security bill
France has given in to days of protests over its controversial police security bill, and agreed to completely rewrite the proposal.
The bill would have strengthened government surveillance tools and curbed the public's right to film police officers in action.
On Saturday, tens of thousands of people held rallies across the country, saying the bill will curb freedom of the press and reduce police accountability.
*) UK retailer Topshop faces closure
UK retail giant Topshop is among several brands facing closure, after its parent company, The Arcadia Group, collapsed into administration, putting 13-thousand jobs at risk.
Falling sales due to the pandemic have been blamed for the company's financial troubles.
Arcadia is owned by British billionaire Sir Philip Green.
And finally…
*) Destruction of Amazon rainforest hits highest level in 12 years
The destruction of Brazil's Amazon rainforest has hit its highest level in 12 years, according to Brazil's national space agency.
Deforestation in the Amazon has increased by almost ten percent since last year.
The area lost between July 2019 and August of this year is 11,000 square kilometres – roughly twice the size of Rio de Janeiro.
*) Tigray hospitals overwhelmed and running short of supplies
Hospitals in Ethiopia's Tigray are overwhelmed and running dangerously low on supplies, a day after PM Abiy Ahmed claimed military victory there.
The Red Cross says health workers in capital Mekelle are struggling with shortages of food and medical supplies, including body bags.
Hundreds have been killed and thousands displaced since the conflict began nearly four weeks ago, with the UN urging for humanitarian access as soon as possible.
*) Iran’s top nuclear scientist buried
Iran’s top nuclear scientist has been buried in Tehran.
Mohsen Fakhrizadeh was assassinated on Friday in an ambush on a highway.
The country has vowed to avenge his murder, which it blames on Israel.
Tel Aviv has denied responsibility.
*) Biden picks all-women press team
US President-elect Joe Biden will have an all-women senior communications team, a first for the White House.
Biden campaign press chief Kate Bedingfield will serve as communications director for the oval office.
Four of the seven top communications roles at the west wing will be filled by women of colour.
*) More bushfires as Australia records hottest November
Australian states of Queensland and New South Wales are battling to contain dozens of bushfires brought on by hot weather.
The country is currently experiencing its hottest November on record, with temperatures passing 45 degrees Celsius.
Australian scientists say climate change will continue to exacerbate bushfires, droughts and cyclones in the country.
And finally…
*) F1 driver miraculously escapes fireball crash
French Formula 1 driver Romain Grosjean has miraculously survived a high-speed crash at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
The Haas racer tore into half and was engulfed in flames as it speared through protective barriers at 250 kph.
Grosjean escaped with only light burns to his hands and ankles, thanks to the car's modern safety systems.
The sport's heroic rescue team are also being praised after they braved the fire to get Grosjean to safety.
*)Trump says he'll leave if Electoral College seats Biden
President Donald Trump has said he will leave the White House if the Electoral College formalises Democratic rival Joe Biden's victory.
Trump spent his Thanksgiving renewing baseless claims that “massive fraud” and crooked officials in battleground states caused his election defeat.
Biden won the November 3 presidential election with 306 Electoral College votes to Trump's 232.
*) Vaccine deliveries to begin next week in US
Staying in the US, President Trump has said that delivery of the coronavirus vaccine would begin next week and the week after.
Speaking to US troops overseas to mark Thanksgiving, he said the vaccine would initially be sent to front-line workers, medical personnel and senior citizens.
In the meantime, millions of Americans took to the skies and the highways ahead of Thanksgiving despite warnings to stay home to prevent Covid-19 from spreading.
*) Australia to discharge 13 soldiers after Afghan war crimes probe
Australia’s army has moved to discharge 13 soldiers following a report that points to their involvement in war crimes in Afghanistan.
Army chief Rick Burr said administrative action notices have been served to terminate their service in two weeks' time unless they successfully appeal.
A years-long investigation last week reported that Australia's elite special forces "unlawfully killed" 39 civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan.
*) Burkina Faso President Kabore secures re-election
Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore has won re-election, according to preliminary results.
Kabore won over 57 percent of the vote, as the official tally from the electoral commission showed. He needed over 50 percent to avoid a second round.
Some analysts had expected a closer contest but poor turnout due to the violence may have helped Kabore.
And finally…
*) Museum to record Londoners' Covid dreams
The Museum of London has announced a project to collect the dreams of Londoners during the coronavirus pandemic.
The "Guardians of Sleep" project aims to document the impact of the Covid-19 crisis through the collection of dreams that would be orally narrated.
It will also explore what insight dreams might offer into mental health and ways of coping with external stresses, especially in times of crisis.
*) Trump pardons ex-aide Flynn, who pleaded guilty of lying in Russia probe
US President Donald Trump has pardoned his former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn.
Flynn had twice pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI during the investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.
Trump tweeted his decision and wished Flynn a happy Thanksgiving, drawing condemnation from the Democrats.
*) Ethiopian forces surround Tigray's capital Mekelle as ultimatum expires
In Ethiopia, a 72-hour deadline given by the government for Tigray fighters to surrender has expired.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has issued a warning to the Tigray People's Liberation Front to lay down its arms, or face an assault on Mekelle.
Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed in the ongoing fighting in the country’s Tigray region and thousands have been displaced.
*) Cyclone Nivar tears down power lines, trees in India
A severe cyclone has slammed into India's southern coast, uprooting trees and power lines but there have been no immediate reports of loss of life.
Cyclone Nivar made landfall near the city of Puducherry in the southern state of Tamil Nadu with winds of up to 130 km per hour.
Tens of thousands of people were evacuated from low-lying areas of Tamil Nadu ahead of the storm's landfall.
*) Football icon Diego Maradona dies of heart attack
One of the greatest footballers of all time, Diego Maradona has died at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack.
In Buenos Aires, heartbroken fans of Maradona gathered to mourn the soccer legend's death, laying flowers and singing chants.
Three days of national mourning have been declared in Argentina and his body will lie in state at the presidential palace in Buenos Aires.
And finally…
*) Six of Pakistan's squad positive for coronavirus – New Zealand Cricket
Six members of Pakistan's touring cricket squad have tested positive for Covid-19 in New Zealand, throwing preparations for the series into turmoil.
All six have been moved into quarantine and the team's exemption to train while in isolation has been temporarily revoked, according to New Zealand Cricket.
Pakistan are due to play three Twenty20 internationals and two tests from December 18.
*) Coronavirus has infected over 60 million people globally
The number of coronavirus cases has surpassed the grim milestone of 60 million cases worldwide.
Covid-19 has killed more than 1.4 million people across the world since the outbreak of the pandemic in January.
The United States is the worst affected country in terms of caseload, followed by India and Brazil.
*) UN chief calls for de-escalation of tensions in Tigray
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region, calling for a de-escalation of tensions.
The appeal comes as an Ethiopian human rights organisation accused a Tigrayan Youth Group of killing as many as 600 civilians earlier this month.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has given the Tigray People's Liberation Front until Wednesday night to surrender.
*) Biden presents security and foreign policy team
US President-elect Joe Biden has formally introduced the first round of nominations for his new cabinet.
His picks include secretary of state, national security advisor, homeland security secretary, intelligence chief, UN ambassador and climate change envoy.
This all comes after US President Donald Trump suffered further setbacks in his efforts to overturn the results of the election with claims of fraud.
*) Hundreds protest clearance of migrant camp by police
In France, hundreds have demonstrated in Paris against violent treatment of migrants at a camp by police.
They were filmed overturning tents, using tear gas to disperse crowds and hitting people with riot shields.
France's Interior Ministry has also launched an investigation into clashes that broke out on Monday after police cleared the migrant camp.
And finally…
*) Scores of pilot whales dead in New Zealand stranding
Almost 100 pilot whales have died in a mass stranding on New Zealand's remote Chatham Islands.
At least 69 whales had already died by the time wildlife officers reached the beach. Over two dozen pilot whales were euthanised.
The causes of mass stranding remain unknown despite scientists studying the phenomenon for decades.
*) Trump finally agrees to Biden transition - but still not conceding
US President Donald Trump has inched closer to admitting election defeat, noting that it was time for the government agency to ease White House transitions to "do what needs to be done".
This comes after the General Services Administration said it was finally lifting its unprecedented block on assistance during the transition.
Before the announcement, Biden had pushed ahead with plans for his cabinet, and nominations for key positions came in.
The nominations include Antony Blinken for Secretary of State and John Kerry for the climate envoy on the National Security Council.
*) UN calls for civilians to be protected after PM's ultimatum
The UN Security Council will be holding its first meeting on Ethiopia in an attempt to mediate between the conflict in the dissident Tigray region.
The global organisation has urged Ethiopian officials to ensure the safety of civilians as the army prepares for an attack in the capital of Tigray.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced a deadline for the rebels to surrender but the Tigray People's Liberation Front has vowed not to give up.
*) Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine 'up to 90 percent effective'
Oxford University and pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca have announced their coronavirus vaccine can be up to 90 percent effective.
It is cheaper to produce than its rivals Pfizer and Moderna and can be stored at normal refrigeration temperatures.
This makes it ideal for mass production and distribution with up to 3 billion doses of the vaccine expected to be produced by 2021.
*) Turkish court resumes trial of 20 Saudi suspects in absentia
A Turkish court will resume the trial in absentia of 20 Saudi suspects, accused of murdering Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul’s Saudi consulate.
The first hearing was held in Istanbul back in July.
Prosecutors are seeking life sentences for all accused of the 2018 murder.
And finally…
*) China launches mission to bring back material from moon
China’s Chang'e 5 lunar probe has been launched from the Wenchang Space Centre.
It's on a mission to collect rock samples from the moon, which scientists hope will help them learn more about its origins and formation.
If successful, China will be only the third country to have retrieved samples from the Moon, following the US and the Soviet Union in the 60s and 70s.
*) Prominent Hong Kong activists plead guilty
Prominent Hong Kong activists Joshua Wong, Ivan Lam and Agnes Chow have pleaded guilty over their involvement in last year's protests.
Hong Kong was convulsed by seven straight months of violent anti-Beijing rallies in which millions took to the streets last year.
Beijing and local authorities refused demands for free elections and responded with a widening crackdown against protesters.
All three activists were remanded into custody pending a sentencing hearing on December 2.
*) Top Republicans urge Trump to concede election
Several Republican lawmakers are urging US President Donald Trump to concede the election.
Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie is calling Trump's legal team an embarrassment after they alleged election fraud but provided no evidence to support their claim.
Several states also overturned legal requests from Trump's team to discredit Joe Biden's win.
*) Covid-19 vaccine could be rolled out in US in December
Some good news for our US listeners: coronavirus vaccinations could be distributed in America by December 11.
Pfizer and its partner BioNTech requested emergency regulatory authorisation on Friday.
Distribution of the vaccine will begin 24 hours after approval by the US Food and Drug Administration.
*) G20 leaders pledge to help struggling countries
This year's G20 Summit, held virtually by Saudi Arabia, has ended with a pledge to do what's necessary to help poorer countries with coronavirus tests and treatment.
Many developing countries have been plunged into economic turmoil because of the virus.
G20 leaders also endorsed a plan to extend a freeze in debt payments from struggling countries.
And finally…
*) Taylor Swift named Artist of the Year at AMAs
Taylor Swift has been named Artist of the Year at the American Music Awards for a record sixth time.
She did not show up at the Los Angeles ceremony though, saying that she is re-recording her early tracks after her catalogue was sold.
Swift beat Justin Bieber, Post Malone and Roddy Ricch for the coveted award and also won Favorite Music Video and Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist.
US reports record one-day high in new Covid-19 infections and 'Shuggie Bain' writer Douglas Stuart wins Booker Prize
*) US registers record single-day rise in new Covid cases
The US has reported a world record of more than 200,000 new cases of Covid-19 in a single day.
The world's worst-hit country also reported 2,239 fatalities – the highest death toll since May – with citizens urged to stay home for Thanksgiving.
The pandemic has infected more than 57 million people and claimed at least 1.3 million lives around the world.
*) Ethiopia's latest air strike reportedly hits Tigray university
Rebel forces have alleged that air strikes by Ethiopian federal forces targeted a university injuring several students in the northern Tigray region.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched a military campaign in the northern region in response to what he says were attacks by the Tigray People's Liberation Front.
The two-week-old conflict has since killed hundreds, sent 36,000 refugees into Sudan and worsened a humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa.
*) Biden condemns Trump's 'irresponsible' fight
US President-elect Joe Biden says that incumbent President Donald Trump's challenge of the election results is "totally irresponsible".
The incumbent US president has refused to accept his loss in the presidential race despite his opponent getting over six million more votes.
Meanwhile, Georgia has confirmed Biden as the winner in the state after completing a hand audit of nearly 5 million ballots.
*) Deaths mount after Bobi Wine arrest triggers unrest in Uganda
At least 16 people have been killed in clashes between Ugandan security forces and supporters of detained opposition leader Bobi Wine.
The violence also left at least 45 people injured, which comes two months before a presidential election in the country.
Opposition candidate Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi was arrested for allegedly violating coronavirus measures at his rallies.
And finally…
*) 'Shuggie Bain' writer Douglas Stuart wins Booker Prize
Scottish author Douglas Stuart has won the 2020 Booker Prize for his acclaimed debut novel "Shuggie Bain”.
The 44-year-old writer won the prestigious $66,000 award for his first published novel, which is the product of a decade of work.
He was the only UK-born author on a US-dominated list of six finalists for the prize, which is open to English-language novels from around the world.
*) US coronavirus death toll hits 250,000
US coronavirus deaths have passed a quarter of a million people as New York announced it would close schools to battle a rise in infections.
US states and cities are imposing a raft of new restrictions, including home confinement and the closure of indoor dining as cases soar across the country.
The second wave of the pandemic has forced many countries across the world to return to stricter measures to curb the virus spread.
*) Storm Iota kills dozens in Central America
Iota's death toll rises to 30 after the storm unleashed mudslides and left thousands homeless across Central America.
Iota made landfall in Nicaragua as a "catastrophic" Category 5 hurricane on Monday, but its remnants will continue to be deadly through Thursday.
The US National Hurricane Center warned of "life-threatening flash flooding" across portions of Central America, due to heavy rainfall.
*) Australian troops unlawfully killed Afghan civilians
A shocking report into war crimes by elite Australian troops has found evidence that soldiers unlawfully killed 39 Afghan prisoners, farmers and civilians.
Defence Force Chief General Angus Campbell admitted there was credible evidence his special forces were involved in the killings.
Campbell said the illegal killings began in 2009, with the majority occurring in 2012 and 2013.
*) Both sides in Ethiopia's conflict claim military successes
Both sides in Ethiopia's raging internal conflict have claimed military successes, creating a muddied picture of fighting.
The Tigray region's refugee crisis amplified as Sudan reported 36,000 people had streamed across its borders to escape the violence.
The fighting began in the region after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed launched a military operation against Tigray’s local forces two weeks ago.
And finally…
*) 'Wonder Woman 1984' to debut in theaters and on HBO Max
The much-delayed superhero sequel "Wonder Woman 1984" will premiere on HBO Max and in theaters simultaneously from Christmas Day in the US.
The decision to release the movie on the Warner Bros’ streaming platform represents a gamble for a film which cost a reported 200 million dollars.
Before the coronavirus pandemic, blockbuster movies ran only on the big screen for a theatrical window of 90 days.
*) Ethiopia’s PM vows ‘final and crucial’ offensive in Tigray
Ethiopia's prime minister says a "final and crucial" military offensive will soon be launched in the restive northern region of Tigray.
The UN has warned of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the region as over 27,000 refugees have fled to Sudan amid escalating unrest.
Other aid agencies are reporting people are going hungry in Tigray as there is very little food left to buy even if locals do have the purchasing power.
*) Iota, weakened but deadly, rips through Central America
Fierce winds and floodwaters have raged through Honduras as Hurricane Iota batters the region, leaving at least six people dead in Nicaragua.
The storm has unleashed torrential rain with damaging winds, causing damage to infrastructure and forcing more than 80,000 from their homes.
Hurricane Iota comes just two weeks after devastating tropical storm Eta hit the region.
*) Turkey's Parliament approves troop deployment to Azerbaijan
The Turkish parliament has approved a bill to deploy peacekeepers to Azerbaijan.
Russia has previously said Turkish troops would be joining them in Nagorno-Karabakh to oversee a ceasefire deal between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Ankara says the decision to send in peacekeepers will bring more stability to the region.
*) Trump fires top US election cybersecurity official via Twitter
US President Donald Trump has, in a tweet, fired the director of the federal agency that vouched for the reliability of the 2020 election.
Chris Krebs had declared the November 3rd election as “the most secure in American history”.
Trump has repeatedly refused to concede defeat to Democrat Joe Biden, claiming the voting and count was replete with fraud without offering any evidence.
And finally…
*) FIFA Club World Cup to be held in Qatar in February
The FIFA Club World Cup, originally planned for December, will now be held from February 1 to February 11 in Doha, Qatar.
Organisers from FIFA say the tournament will bring together six continental champions from across the world.
FIFA did not state if supporters would be able to attend any of the games as the coronavirus pandemic continues to grip the world.
*) More than 1 million kids in US test positive for Covid-19
The number of US infants, children and teens diagnosed with Covid-19 has exceeded the one-million mark, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
The number of infected children was just over 1 million on November 12.
The data, based on reports from state health departments, shows at least 6,333 pediatric hospitalisations and 133 deaths since May.
*) Ethiopia launches air strikes outside Tigray capital
Ethiopia has carried out "precision led and surgical air operations" outside of Tigray's capital Makelle.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said a three-day ultimatum to surrender issued to Tigray forces and allied militias is now over, as a near two-week long conflict with defiant local leaders continues to flare.
African leaders have tried to kickstart talks in Ethiopia's internal conflict as fighting in Tigray region has reportedly killed hundreds of people.
*) Maximum Category 5 Hurricane Iota roars ashore in Nicaragua
Hurricane Iota has made landfall in Nicaragua as a "catastrophic" Category 5 hurricane, threatening to deliver heavy rains and fierce winds.
Authorities have been rushing to evacuate thousands of people from coastal areas of Nicaragua and Honduras in the immediate path of the hurricane.
The storm has already left one person dead as it swept the Colombian Caribbean island territory of Providencia, where it caused widespread damage.
*) Trump to order troop cuts in Afghanistan, Iraq
US President Donald Trump is expected to cut a significant number of US troops in Afghanistan and a smaller number in Iraq in his final days of his presidency.
The plan would run counter to military commanders' advice over the past year, while still falling short of Trump's much-touted goal to end America's long wars.
There are 4,500 to 5,000 troops in Afghanistan and more than 3,000 in Iraq.
And finally…
*) SpaceX capsule with 4 astronauts reaches space station
After a long 27-hour ride, SpaceX has docked with the International Space Station.
The Crew Dragon spacecraft left Cape Canaveral in Florida on Sunday, with three Americans and one Japanese astronaut on board.
The four astronauts are on a six-month journey to the ISS. This is SpaceX's second crewed mission for NASA.
*) Azerbaijan extends Armenian pullout deadline from Kalbajar
Citing humanitarian grounds, Azerbaijan has agreed to extend the deadline for Armenian forces and illegal settlers to withdraw from Kalbajar until November 25.
Both sides reached a deal earlier this month to end weeks of hostilities with Armenia to return Kalbajar and other districts under its illegal occupation.
Kalbajar was exclusively populated by ethnic Azerbaijanis before they were forced out by Armenians in the war that followed the end of the Soviet Union.
*) Ethiopia’s Tigray leader confirms firing missiles at Eritrea
The leader of Ethiopia’s Tigray region Debretsion Gebremichael has confirmed his forces fired missiles at neighbouring Eritrea’s capital.
The strikes mark the expansion of the deadly conflict, between the Ethiopian federal government and forces loyal to the northern Tigray region, across an international border.
The offensive against Eritrea came on the same day the ruling party in Tigray, claimed rocket attacks on two airports in a separate region of Ethiopia.
*) Israel advances plans in east Jerusalem settlement
Israel's Housing Ministry opened up tenders for thousands of new homes in the Givat Hamatos area of Jerusalem.
International law recognises the West Bank and East Jerusalem as "occupied territories" and considers all Jewish settlement-building activities there illegal.
The move may test ties with the US President-elect Joe Biden, who could take a firmer tack against Israel’s illegal settlements.
*) Peru's Interim President Merino resigns
Peru's interim president Manuel Merino has resigned after violence during crackdown on protests.
Merino stepped down immediately after the Peruvian congress asked him to resign in an emergency Congress session.
Thousands of people staged days-long protests against Merino following the impeachment and ouster of his predecessor Martin Vizcarra on corruption allegations.
And finally…
*) Hamilton takes seventh F1 title with a win in Turkey
Britain's Lewis Hamilton has won the Turkish Grand Prix with Mercedes to earn a record- equalling seventh Formula 1 world championship.
Ferrari great Michael Schumacher is the only other driver with seven titles to his name.
Turkey was hosting a Grand Prix for the first time since 2011 with the 14th round of the 2020 F1 season held in Istanbul.
*) US election officials find 'no evidence' of lost or changed votes
US officials responsible for election security have found "no evidence" that votes were lost or changed in the presidential election.
They rejected claims made by President Donald Trump that fraud and lost ballots led to his loss to Democrat Joe Biden in last week's election.
The election officials across the country are currently "double-checking" their state and local results prior to certifying the numbers.
*) Dozens of migrants drown after boat breaks down off Libya coast
At least 74 migrants have drowned after their Europe-bound ship broke down off the coast of Libya.
The International Organization for Migration said the boat was carrying over 120 migrants, including women and children.
Only 47 people were rescued while 31 bodies have been retrieved as the search for the remaining victims continues.
*) Hong Kong anti-Beijing legislators hand in resignations
Hong Kong's legislature conducted a session empty of anti-Beijing lawmakers after the bloc said they would resign en masse.
The opposition legislators later began submitting their resignations to protest the expulsion of four other lawmakers.
The four disqualified lawmakers had urged foreign governments to sanction China and Hong Kong over Beijing’s crackdown on dissent in the territory.
*) Amnesty: Scores of civilians killed in 'massacre' in Ethiopia's Tigray
Amnesty International has said that scores of civilians were killed in what it called a "massacre" in Ethiopia's Tigray region.
Witnesses blamed it on forces backing the local ruling party in its conflict with the federal government.
More than 11,000 people have fled to neighbouring Sudan since the November 4 launch of military action against the Tigray People's Liberation Front party.
And finally…
*) US won't enforce TikTok ban following court ruling
The US government has decided against enforcing a ban on Chinese-owned social media sensation TikTok.
The decision comes following a federal court’s ruling issued in the national security case involving the video app owned by China-based ByteDance.
The Trump administration contends the personal data collected by TikTok on 100 million Americans could be obtained by China's government.
*) Russia deploys peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh
The first group of Russian peacekeepers has been deployed to the Karabakh conflict zone hours after the ceasefire deal.
The deal came after significant advances by Azerbaijani forces that prompted the Armenian-backed leader of Nagorno-Karabakh to say it was impossible for them to carry on.
Several ceasefires announced over the past six weeks crumbled almost immediately but the current agreement appeared to be holding.
*) Libya talks reach election breakthrough - UN
United Nations-led talks on Libya’s future have decided to hold elections within 18 months.
Libya has been in chaos since 2011 and divided since 2014 between rival factions in east and west.
The internationally recognised Government of National Accord holds power in the capital Tripoli, while warlord Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army holds sway in the east.
*) US warns of more China sanctions over Hong Kong moves
The United States has warned of further sanctions against China after the ousting of four anti-Beijing lawmakers.
National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien said the US would continue to identify and sanction those responsible for extinguishing Hong Kong's freedom.
The US has imposed sanctions on four more officials accused of curbing freedoms in Hong Kong.
*) Iran enriched uranium 12 times over limit set in 2015 deal - IAEA
The United Nations nuclear agency has reported that Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium is now more than 12 times the limit set in a 2015 deal.
The report said that as of November 2, Iran's total enriched uranium stockpile was almost 2443 kilogrammes.
The 2015 nuclear deal allows Iran only to keep a stockpile of 202.8 kilogrammes.
And finally…
*) New PlayStation hits market ready for battle with latest Xbox
Sony's PlayStation 5 goes on sale just two days after rival Microsoft released its newest Xbox.
Currently, the PS5 is only available in Australia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, North America and South Korea.
Gamers elsewhere will have to wait until November 19 to purchase it.
*) Erdogan: Turkey, Russia to supervise Karabakh truce
Turkish President Erdogan says Ankara and Moscow will jointly supervise the implementation of a ceasefire between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev called the deal a defeat for Armenia.
Turkish President Erdogan's office said the deal offered a chance "for a just and lasting peace in the region."
*) US records new high of over 200,000 coronavirus cases
The United States has far exceeded its previous daily record of new Covid-19 cases, adding over 200,000 cases in 24 hours.
The world’s most affected country by the pandemic saw 1,535 more deaths as it struggles to contain the spread of the virus.
For a week now, the number of new infections in the US has trended at over 100,000 each day.
*) Biden calls Trump's failure to concede 'an embarrassment'
US President-elect Joe Biden has called President Donald Trump's refusal to concede his election defeat an "embarrassment."
A week after the US election, Trump has remained holed up inside the White House, filing lawsuits alleging voter fraud.
The Democrat signalled that despite attempts by Trump to stymie his transition to power he was increasingly a president in waiting.
*) France and Germany call for EU border reform after terrorist attacks
Germany and France say the European Union must reform the open-border Schengen area in light of recent terrorist attacks.
The attacks over the past weeks in Nice and Vienna involved assailants who moved freely between Schengen countries.
The discussion about harsher security measures comes as the bloc’s executive has been making efforts for a “fresh start” on immigration.
And finally…
*) Istanbul will host Formula 1 after nine years
Turkey is once again set to host the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Istanbul after nine years, but this time with no live spectators due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Round 14 of the season will take place at the Intercity Istanbul Park in Tuzla district, located in the city's Asian side on November 15.
The circuit's length is 5.3 kilometres and drivers will have to complete 58 laps.
*) Armenia accepts defeat in fight over occupied Azerbaijan territories
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has admitted defeat by signing a deal with Azerbaijan and Russia to end the conflict in occupied Karabakh.
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev announced a Turkish and Russia joint peacekeeping mission in Karabakh and said the pact also includes the return of Agdam, Kalbajar and Lachin areas to Baku.
The announcement was followed by celebrations on the Azerbaijanian side and anti-government protests in Armenia some of which reportedly turned violent.
*) Pfizer vaccine trial success signals breakthrough in pandemic battle
Pfizer Inc's experimental Covid-19 vaccine is more than 90 percent effective based on initial trial results, the drugmaker said.
Mass roll-outs, which need regulatory approval, will not happen this year.
Pfizer and German partner BioNTech SE said they can roll out up to 50 million doses this year if the US grants authorisation of its emergency use.
*) Refusing to concede, Trump blocks cooperation on transition
President Donald Trump has blocked government officials from cooperating with President-elect Joe Biden’s team on a presidential transition.
Few Repubilcan lawmakers have acknowledged Biden's victory or even condemned Trump's firing of Defence Secretary Mark Esper.
Meanwhile, Attorney General William Barr has authorised the Justice Department to probe unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud.
*) Storm Eta kills dozens in hard-hit Honduras
At least 57 people have died and eight others are missing in Honduras following Tropical Storm Eta.
After striking Nicaragua as a Category 4 hurricane and killing nearly 70 people from Mexico to Panama, the storm moved into the Gulf of Mexico.
Eta also caused flooding in the Florida Keys and poses a serious threat across Southern Florida in the US.
And finally…
*) McDonald's launching meatless 'McPlant' burger
Fast food giant McDonald's announced it was launching a new plant-based burger named the "McPlant".
The brand had fallen behind in the market to rival Burger King, which was the first to launch a vegetarian "Whopper" burger in April 2019.
Other chains like Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks have also dipped their toes in the plant-based market as consumers become more aware of their health.
*) US President-elect Joe Biden begins transition period
US President-elect Joe Biden has taken the first steps towards moving into the White House in 73 days.
A transition website launched by Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris lists four priorities: Covid-19, economic recovery, racial equity and climate change.
Meanwhile, incumbent President Donald Trump plans to file a string of lawsuits in the coming week, over what he says was election fraud.
*) Azerbaijani army frees city of Shusha from Armenian occupation
The city of Shusha has been retaken by Azerbaijan after 28 years of occupation by Armenian forces.
Shusha which was occupied by Armenian forces on May 8, 1992, has critical importance in liberating Nagorno-Karabakh.
It is located on the road to Khankendi, the region's largest city.
*) Attack on Iraqi army post in Baghdad kills at least 11
Unidentified gunmen have killed at least 11 people and wounded eight others including soldiers in an attack on an Iraqi army post in Baghdad.
The assailants in four vehicles attacked the post in the city's Al Radhwaniya district using grenades and automatic weapons, police sources said.
Security sources and medics said that the attack was carried out by Daesh but there was no immediate claim of responsibility from the group.
*) Ethiopia reshuffles top officials as Tigray conflict grows
Ethiopia’s PM Abiy Ahmed has replaced his army chief as he sought to defend a growing military action against the country's defiant Tigray region.
Abiy replaced army chief General Adem Mohammed with his deputy Berhanu Jula, as well as the country's foreign minister, federal police commissioner and head of intelligence service.
The move comes as scores of soldiers were reportedly wounded in a five-day-old conflict in the country's northern Tigray region
And finally…
*) Iconic quiz-show host Alex Trebek dies at 80
Alex Trebek, whose decades as host of the quiz show "Jeopardy!" made him one of the most popular fixtures on American television, has died at the age of 80 years.
Trebek had waged a very public fight against pancreatic cancer for nearly two years but continued taping his programme until recently.
His death was announced on Twitter by the "Jeopardy!" account.
*) White House race narrows as Biden and Trump eye five states
US President Donald Trump has again claimed without offering evidence that Democrats were trying to steal the presidential election as Joe Biden appeared to move closer to victory.
As Americans wait for the outcome, Trump said he would "easily win" the race against Joe Biden without the alleged illegal votes.
In response to lawsuits filed by Trump, two judges denied bids to stop the vote count in Philadelphia and Michigan.
*) US daily Covid-10 cases hit new record, topping 120,000
The United States has reported a daily record of over 120,000 coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, according to a tracking portal.
While deaths remain lower than their worst levels in the spring, Thursday was also the third day in a row that fatalities were above a 1,000.
Meanwhile, the United Nations is set to hold a special session in December focused on international coordination to fight the pandemic.
*) Libyan parliamentarians meet for peace talks in Morocco
Libyan politicians from rival administrations have met for the latest round of peace talks in Morocco.
Thursday’s talks follow a UN-backed ceasefire agreement signed last month with an intention to reach a political solution to the country's conflict.
Negotiators are pushing parallel efforts to broker peace, with the military section of talks taking place this week for the first time on Libyan soil.
*) Storm Eta causes devastation in Central America
Storm Eta has killed more than 50 people in Central America with torrential rains and catastrophic flooding.
The storm turned the streets into waist-high water channels, spreading damage across Honduras and Guatemala.
Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez said speedboats and helicopters would be sent to rescue people in inaccessible areas.
And finally…
*) Star Wars toys discovered in trash net $525,000 for UK couple
A British couple has found a treasure trove of Star Wars memorabilia worth five hundred and twenty-five thousand dollars in trash bags.
They inherited the trashed collection from a dead neighbour in Stourbridge town in the West Midlands.
Among the treasure was a Star Destroyer Commander, one of only two known examples still to be in its original packaging, which sold for $42,000.
Joe Biden leads US election results and Rafael Nadal wins 1,000th match in an empty and silent stadium
*) Biden in lead as anxious Americans await US election results
Votes are still being counted in key states in the US presidential election, with Democrat challenger Joe Biden leading the race to win the required 270 electoral college votes.
Incumbent President Donald Trump’s re-election bid has been aided by winning a series of key battleground states early including Florida, Ohio and Iowa.
Former Vice President Biden is on the other hand projected to flip the battleground states of Arizona, Michigan and Wisconsin.
The outcome of the US presidential election will become clearer by Thursday night
*) Azerbaijan says it has retaken seven more villages from Armenian occupation
Azerbaijan says it has retaken seven more villages in Jabrayil, Zangilan and Gubadli from Armenian occupation in Nagorno-Karabakh.
Turkish Defence Ministry said Azerbaijan's military had shot down another Armenian Su-25 fighter jet, taking the total number of downed Armenian jets to seven.
Meanwhile, Azerbaijan Presidential Aide Hikmet Hajiyev has accused Armenia of "continuing to use white phosphorus projectiles on civilians, villages.”
*) Ethiopia edges towards civil war, deploys army to Tigray
Ethiopia’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has ordered his military to confront the country’s Tigray regional government.
The move follows accusations against the region's Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) of carrying out a deadly attack on an Ethiopian military base.
The deployment to confront the well-armed TPLF raises concerns that one of Africa’s most populous and powerful countries could plunge back into war.
*) Beijing bars arrivals from UK, Belgium due to second Covid-19 waves
China has defended a ban on non-Chinese arrivals from Britain, Belgium and the Philippines as a guard against a resurgence of the coronavirus.
Covid-19 first emerged in China’s Wuhan late last year, but Beijing has largely brought its own outbreak under control while the virus continues to rage around the world.
The pandemic has infected more than 48.5 million people and claimed more than 1.2 million lives globally.
And finally...
*) Rafael Nadal wins 1,000th match in an empty and silent stadium
Tennis great Rafael Nadal has become the fourth man to reach 1,000 match wins.
He reached his milestone amid a cathedral-like silence in a 20,000-seater stadium in Paris left completely empty because of the coronavirus pandemic.
There was only a fist bump from Feliciano Lopez, after Nadal beat him 4-6, 7-6, 6-4 in a subdued atmosphere.
US vote count under way with both Trump and Biden predicting victory and legendary Argentine football icon Diego Maradona undergoes successful brain surgery
*) Results of US election still awaited
The results of the US election are still awaited with vote counting under way and no clear winner so far.
Both incumbent Republican President Donald Trump and his Democrat challenger Joe Biden have predicted a win.
Trump has made fraud allegations, without any proof, and said he would approach the US Supreme Court to resolve the matter while Biden's campaign says their lawyers are on standby for such an attempt.
*) Search-and-rescue efforts completed in Turkey's quake-hit Izmir
Turkey's disaster agency says all search-and-rescue efforts are over in Izmir province after last week’s deadly earthquake.
The massive earthquake on Friday caused dozens of buildings to collapse and sent seawater surging into the streets along the coast in Izmir.
The death toll in Turkey's Aegean region has risen to 114 with 137 victims still receiving treatment, while 898 have been discharged from hospitals.
*) Probe into Vienna terror attack continues
The investigation into Vienna's terror attack has expanded to Switzerland and North Macedonia.
The assailant, a 20-year-old Austrian-North Macedonian dual citizen, was killed by police after the Daesh-claimed attack, which left four people dead and 22 wounded.
Police in Vienna searched 18 properties including the suspect's apartment, detaining 14 people associated with the assailant over the attack.
*) Indian police arrest, charge firebrand TV station founder Arnab Goswami
Indian police said they arrested firebrand television news anchor Arnab Goswami and charged him with abetment to suicide.
Police said the charges against Goswami are linked to the 2018 deaths of interior designer Anvay Naik and his mother, which police determined to be suicide.
Goswami is known for aggressively backing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his nationalist policies during his nightly shows, often shouting down opponents.
And finally...
*) Maradona undergoes successful brain surgery: doctor
Argentine football great Diego Maradona has undergone successful brain surgery on a blood clot, his personal doctor has said.
Dr Leopoldo Luque said Maradona has an accumulation of blood between a membrane and his brain.
Luque, who is a neurologist, said the problem was likely caused by an accident, but Maradona said he doesn't remember the event.
Vienna terror attack leaves three dead and several wounded, and Johnny Depp loses his high-stakes libel case against The Sun newspaper
*) Austria hit by ‘repulsive terror attack’
Three people, including one attacker, have been killed in central Vienna in what Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has described as a "repulsive terror attack."
Police said there was "one deceased person" and several injured, including one police officer.
The attacks on late Monday were carried out by "several suspects armed with rifles," said police, adding that there had been "six different shooting locations."
*) Trump, Biden lawyers on standby for election results
Election Day in the US is finally under way with some 98 million people already having voted.
But signature matches, late-arriving absentee votes, drop boxes, secrecy envelopes...
These issues have already sent Democratic and Republican lawyers to court and victory for Donald Trump or Joe Biden might require a legal battle.
*) Turkey's Izmir death toll rises past 100
The death toll from an earthquake in the Aegean Sea has risen to at least 102, Turkey’s disaster management agency has said.
The massive earthquake on Friday caused dozens of buildings to collapse and sent seawater surging into the streets along the coast in Izmir.
Rescue work continues with a renewed sense of hope after a three-year-old child was found alive under rubble 91 hours after the temblor.
*) Argentina expects 10 million doses of Russian Covid-19 vaccine
Argentina is expecting 10 million doses of Russia's main experimental Covid-19 vaccine between December and January, as infections continue to climb in the South American country.
The vaccine, known as Sputnik V, is given in two doses and could begin arriving as early as next month, the Argentinian government said in a news release.
The price of the Russian vaccine would be "more or less average" compared with others.
And finally...
*) Johnny Depp loses UK libel case over ‘wife-beater’ article
Johnny Depp has lost his high-stakes libel case against The Sun tabloid newspaper for labeling him a “wife beater”.
In a decision widely cheered by campaigners against domestic abuse, Justice Andrew Nicol said the defendants proved during the trial in London that their allegations against Depp were "substantially true.”
Depp’s lawyers said it would be “ridiculous” if the actor didn't appeal the decision.
*) Turkey's Izmir death toll rises past 80
The death toll from an earthquake in the Aegean Sea has risen to at least 83 with nearly 1,000 people injured in Turkey's Izmir province.
The magnitude 6.8 earthquake on Friday caused dozens of buildings to collapse and sent seawater surging into the streets along the coast.
Rescue work continues with hopes to save those still trapped under debris.
*) Trump, Biden make last-ditch effort to woo voters
The race to the White House nearly comes to a close with presidential candidates Donald Trump and Joe Biden making their final push to woo voters.
Biden appealed to Black supporters to vote in-person during a pandemic that has disproportionately affected their communities.
Meanwhile, the White House clashed with the top virus doctor Anthony Fauci after he warned that the US is "in for a whole lot of hurt."
*) New coronavirus curbs spark exasperation, anger in Europe
Exasperation over new Covid-19 curbs grow as European nations opt for fresh lockdowns and restrictions aimed at halting galloping infections and deaths.
France, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Italy and the UK are among countries imposing restrictions.
The novel coronavirus has infected more than 46 million people worldwide, with at least 1.2 million deaths
*) Muslims continue France protests as Macron tries to manage fallout
Muslims in Pakistan, India and Lebanon have continued demonstrations against French President Emmanuel Macron who tried to calm their anger.
President Macron in an interview defended freedom of speech but said he understood the shock Muslims felt at caricatures depicting the Prophet Muhammad.
While many people on social media criticised the French president for failing to apologise for offending Muslims, others hailed his interview as a success of the protest and boycott campaigns.
And finally...
*) Veteran journalist Robert Fisk dies aged 74
Veteran journalist, author and commentator Robert Fisk has died of a suspected stroke in the Irish capital, Dublin.
The British foreign correspondent was known for covering the Lebanese civil war, the Russian invasion of Afghanistan, the Iranian revolution, and the Iran-Iraq War.
He also became controversial for his take on the ongoing conflict in Syria and his criticism of US and Israel policies.
*) Man kills at least one woman in church knife attack
A knife attacker has killed three people, slitting the throat of at least one woman, at the Basilica of Notre-Dame church in the French city of Nice.
Investigators found two unused knives in the assailant’s bag and the prosecutor said police who shot him had "without any doubt prevented an even higher toll".
French anti-terror authorities have opened an investigation into the Nice attack.
*) Record-breaking early voting in US election tops 80 million
More than 80 million Americans have cast ballots in the US presidential election, setting the stage for the highest participation rate in over a century.
The record-breaking pace, 58 percent more than the total 2016 turnout, reflects an intense interest in the vote.
Many people voted by mail or at early in-person polling sites amid concerns that Covid-19 could spread at busy Election Day voting places.
*) Putin seeks Turkey's hand in settling Karabakh conflict
Russia's president has said Armenia and Azerbaijan should resolve the conflict over occupied Nagorno-Karabakh via the Minsk Group.
Vladimir Putin said a resolution will be possible when the conflicting parties find a "balance of interests", based on proposals from the Minsk Group which Turkey is a part of.
Three ceasefires have failed to hold between Armenia and Azerbaijan since fresh clashes broke out in September over the occupied territory.
*) ADF militia kills at least 19 in eastern DR Congo
At least 19 people have been killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo by militants from the Allied Democratic Forces.
The attack happened overnight in the remote eastern village of Baeti.
The administrator of Beni territory in North Kivu province confirmed the death toll, saying houses had been burnt and people were still missing.
And finally...
*) Instagram to introduce try and stop spread of fake election news
Instagram is prepping for the November 3 presidential election by making it harder for users in the US to receive misinformation about the polls.
For users in the United States, Instagram will temporarily remove the "Recent" tab from hashtag pages starting Thursday.
Instagram said it is taking the step to reduce the real-time spread of potentially harmful content that could pop up around the election.
Thursday, October 29, 2020
TEASE: Anti-France rallies held in several Muslim countries as backlash against President Macron widens and Manchester United, Barcelona and PSG score Champions League wins
NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, October 29th.
*) Anti-France rallies continue as Macron backlash widens
Demonstrators gathered in several Muslim countries against French President Emmanuel Macron's stance on caricatures denigrating Prophet Muhammad.
The anti-France protests were held in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Mali and the occupied West Bank.
Meanwhile, leaders of Turkey and Pakistan called on other countries to take a stance against recently increasing anti-Islam attacks.
*) Deadly Armenian missile strike hits Azerbaijan's Barda
Azerbaijan said an Armenian missile strike on its Barda district near the Nagorno-Karabakh frontline killed 21 civilians and wounded 70 others.
Yerevan has denied carrying out an attack, which is the deadliest reported assault on civilians since new fighting broke out a month ago.
A ceasefire announced by the US earlier this week has failed to take hold as both sides accuse each other of violations.
*) Europe introduces new measures to curb virus, India cases surge
France, Germany, Czech Republic and a number of European countries have imposed drastic measures to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Meanwhile, India’s number of infections has crossed 8 million and the country is expected to overtake the US to have the most infections in coming weeks.
The pandemic is surging worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of new daily infections, taking the global caseload past 44 million, with nearly 1.2 million deaths.
*) 16 dead, dozens missing in Vietnam landslides after typhoon
At least 16 people have been killed and dozens of others remain missing after landslides triggered by a typhoon hit central Vietnam.
Typhoon Molave knocked down trees, tore roofs off homes and brought heavy rain to an area already badly affected by weeks of flooding.
Around 50 people were reported missing across two villages in Quang Nam province, while a search team is battling to reach the site.
And finally...
*) ManU, Barcelona and PSG score Champions League wins
Marcus Rashford is again the star for Manchester United in the Champions League with a hat-trick in a 5-0 thumping of RB Leipzig
On the other hand, Barcelona put their off-field troubles to one side to win 2-0 away to a Juventus side deprived of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Meanwhile, PSG got their campaign up and running by beating Istanbul Basaksehir 2-0 in Turkey, but lost Neymar to an adductor injury in the first half.
*) Armenia, Azerbaijan keep fighting despite ceasefire deal
Fighting over the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh has raged unimpeded by a US-brokered ceasefire.
Azerbaijan accused Armenia of striking the Barda region with rockets, killing four civilians, including a two-year-old girl, and wounding 13 others.
Armenia's Defence Ministry rejected the accusations while conceding that Azerbaijani forces had “made advances in some directions”.
*) Blast at religious school in Pakistan kills several students
A bomb blast at a seminary in Pakistan’s northwestern Peshawar city has killed at least eight people and wounded 136 others.
Police said initial investigations suggest the bomb went off minutes after someone left a bag at the seminary.
Although militant violence in Pakistan has fallen during the past few years, there has been a recent increase in attacks on security forces.
*) Second night of clashes in Philadelphia after police kill Black man
Clashes between protesters and police in Philadelphia have continued for a second night after the latest police shooting of a Black man in the US.
Police said Walter Wallace Jr, 27, was wielding a knife and ignored orders to drop the weapon before officers fatally shot him.
Lawyer for the victim's family said his clients had called for an ambulance to get him help with a mental health crisis, not for police intervention.
*) Tanzania votes for president amid fears of violence, fraud
Tanzanians have headed to the polls for a presidential election that the opposition warns is already deeply compromised by manipulation and deadly violence.
Internet services slowed down ahead of the election, with more than 29 million people registered to vote.
Meanwhile, the ACT Wazalendo opposition party accused police of shooting dead nine people in the semi-autonomous region of Zanzibar.
And finally...
*) Barcelona president Bartomeu resigns to join 'European Super League'
Josep Maria Bartomeu has resigned as Barcelona president along with his board of directors.
Bartomeu left with a bombshell admission that he had accepted a proposal for the club to play in "a future European Super League".
Bartomeu's departure comes following mounting pressure from fans and his public falling-out with Lionel Messi.
*) Erdogan urges people to boycott French products
Turkey’s President Erdogan has called for a sweeping public boycott of French-made goods.
Decrying rising anti-Muslim sentiment in Europe, he called on European leaders to stop what he said was a "hate campaign" led by his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron against Muslims.
He said hostility to Islam and Muslims has become state policy in some European countries, a policy which enjoys support at high levels.
*) Barrett confirmed by Senate for Supreme Court, takes oath
Amy Coney Barrett has been confirmed to the Supreme Court as the 115th justice just days before the US election.
President Donald Trump's choice to fill the vacancy of the late liberal icon Ruth Bader Ginsburg potentially opens a new era of rulings on abortion, the Affordable Care Act and even his own election.
The Senate was deeply divided, with Republicans overpowering Democrats in the vote to install Trump’s nominee.
*) Hurricane Zeta threatens Mexico's Caribbean coast
Mexican authorities have warned residents and tourists to shelter indoors as a hurricane barrels toward its Caribbean coast.
Zeta strengthened from a tropical storm into a Category 1 hurricane, packing maximum sustained winds of 130 kilometres per hour, the US National Hurricane Center said.
Zeta could hit the Yucatan Peninsula on Monday night, the NHC said.
*) Virus antibodies decline rapidly among Britishers during summer
Covid-19 antibodies have declined rapidly in the British population over the summer.
A study suggests protection after coronavirus infection may not be long-lasting, raising the prospect of waning immunity in the community.
Scientists at Imperial College London found that antibody prevalence fell from 6 percent of the population around the end of June to just 4.4 percent in September.
And finally...
*) Moon holds more water in more places than ever thought
The moon’s shadowed, frigid nooks and crannies may hold frozen water in more places and larger quantities than previously suspected.
The presence of water on the moon’s sunlit surface has been confirmed for the first time, scientists said.
More than 40,000 square kilometres of lunar terrain have the capability to trap water in the form of ice, a team led by the University of Colorado’s Paul Hayne found.
*) Violations reported after ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh
Azerbaijan has said that Armenia had violated a new US-announced ceasefire that went into effect on Monday morning.
Baku said the Armenian Army had targeted the Azerbaijani military in the Safiyan village of Lachin from the direction of Lachin city.
It was the third truce attempt in a month since fighting began over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.
*) Turkey's Erdogan slams Macron over his anti-Islam stance
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has intensified his criticism of French President Emmanuel Macron’s comments on Islam.
France had earlier recalled its ambassador to Turkey, following President Erdogan's initial remarks that Macron needed mental help.
Erdogan made those remarks after Macron accused Muslims of 'separatism' and described Islam as 'a religion in crisis.'
*) Majority of Chileans vote to ditch Pinochet-era constitution
Chileans have overwhelmingly voted to change the country's dictatorship-era constitution.
With 94 percent of the votes counted, more than 78 percent of Chileans decided to replace the country's constitution that was drafted in 1980 during the Augusto Pinochet military dictatorship.
The referendum was called in the wake of mass protests against inequality in the country.
*) Iraqis mark one year since protests left more than 500 dead
Demonstrations in Iraq’s capital Baghdad turned violent as thousands of people marked one year since the start of anti-government protests.
Protesters hurled rocks as police fired tear gas canisters and used water cannons to block demonstrators from bridges leading to the Green Zone.
Protesters also marched in several southern cities, including Najaf and Basra. Around 600 people have been killed since protests started.
And finally...
*) Oxford Covid-19 vaccine trials produce robust immune response in elderly
Early results from tests for a coronavirus vaccine show it produces a robust immune response in elderly people, the group at highest risk.
A Financial Times report said the vaccine developed by the University of Oxford, in collaboration with AstraZeneca Plc triggers protective antibodies and T-cells in older age groups
The report added that positive immunogenicity tests do not guarantee that the vaccine will ultimately prove safe and effective in older people.
*) Mute button brings civility to final US presidential debate
A mute button is all it took to bring civility to the final US presidential debate in Tennessee.
Donald Trump and Joe Biden interrupted each other far less frequently, even as they clashed on issues ranging from Covid-19 to climate change.
Candidates will now hit the campaign trail to muster up as much support as they can ahead of the November 2 election.
*) US hosts Azerbaijan, Armenia for talks to end conflict
Talks between the US, Azerbaijan and Armenia on occupied-Karabakh get underway in Washington later today.
The meeting comes as Baku liberated more territory along the border with Iran from Armenian control.
Yerevan says it sees no possibility of a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
*) Saad Hariri named as Lebanon's prime minister-designate
Saad Hariri has been named as Lebanon's new prime minister-designate, a year after he was toppled by mass anti-government protests.
Hariri won the backing of a majority of parliamentarians during meetings with President Michel Aoun.
If successful, he faces the country's deepest crisis since the civil war, with the economy in tatters and widespread distrust of the ruling elite.
*) US sanctions Iranian groups for alleged election meddling
The US Treasury has slapped new sanctions on five Iranian entities, including the Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The treasury said the groups had worked to "sow."
This as the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security said a Russian state-sponsored hacking group was also targeting US government systems.
And finally...
*) Paul McCartney to release solo album in December
Singer Paul McCartney will release his ‘McCartney III’ album in December.
The ex-Beatles star says it's a new collection of stripped-back songs all written, performed and produced by him, 50 years after his first solo album.
It joins two other albums, ‘McCartney’ and ‘McCartney II,’ both created by the 78-year-old at critical times in his life.
*) Turkey says it will send troops to help Azerbaijan if requested
Turkey's Vice President Fuat Oktay says Ankara will not hesitate to send soldiers and provide military support for Azerbaijan if asked.
Earlier, Armenia's prime minister Nikol Pashinyan said he saw no possibility of a diplomatic solution with Azerbaijan at this stage over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Ankara has vowed full solidarity with Baku and insists Yerevan should withdraw from Azerbaijan's lands.
*) US accuses Iran of sending emails intimidating American voters
Russia and Iran have obtained US voter information and acted to influence public opinion ahead of the November 3 election.
US Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe has said Iran sent "spoofed" emails to Americans "designed to intimidate voters, incite social unrest and damage President Trump."
He said Iran had also distributed a video that implies that people could send in fraudulent ballots, including from outside the United States.
*) Sudanese police fire tear gas to disperse protesters
At least one protester is dead after Sudanese security forces fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of people at demonstrations in the capital Khartoum.
People are protesting to put pressure on the government to improve economic conditions and push ahead with reform.
The rallies came just days after President Donald Trump announced the US would remove Sudan from its list of state sponsors of terrorism.
*) Nigerian soldiers fire at protesters, at least two hit
Soldiers opened fire on Nigerians protesting against police brutality in Lekki in Lagos, shooting at least two people.
The condition of the two people shot was not immediately clear.
Amnesty International says at least 15 people had been killed since the protests began.
And finally...
*) Three-man US-Russian crew returns to Earth from ISS
An American astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts touched down on the Kazakhstan steppe, completing a 196-day mission.
NASA astronaut Chris Cassidy and Russians Anatoly Ivanishin and Ivan Vagner landed around 150 kilometres southeast of Zhezkazgan city.
NASA and Roscosmos reported that they were in good condition.
*) Azerbaijan: Global sanctions should be imposed on Armenia
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has urged the international community to impose sanctions on Armenia.
In a televised speech, Aliyev said that the Armenian army is involved in "massacres" of civilians.
Aliyev expressed resolve in retaking Azerbaijani territories occupied by Armenian forces.
*) Nigeria security forces 'kill protesters' amid curfew
In Nigeria, several demonstrators have been killed by security forces in the city of Lagos.
A 24-hour curfew was imposed to quell the protests, with soldiers opening fire on those who defied the curfew, as Amnesty International and others have reported.
Protests over police brutality have been raging for more than a week across the country.
*) Khashoggi’s fiancee sues Saudi crown prince for murder in US court
Hatice Cengiz, the fiancee of murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has filed a lawsuit in the US against the Saudi crown prince, alleging he ordered the hit.
Cengiz filed the federal lawsuit against Prince Mohammed bin Salman with the help of a human rights organisation which Khashoggi founded.
They're accusing him of ordering Khashoggi's killing to permanently silence his calls for democratic reform in the Arab world.
*) Mixed results for arthritis drug as Covid-19 treatment
A trio of new studies published in JAMA Internal Medicine examining the efficacy of an arthritis drug against Covid-19 have shown inconsistent results.
The drug tocilizumab has been used by doctors since the start of the pandemic with the hope of tamping down an abnormal immune response known as a "cytokine storm”.
The risk of death at 30 days stood at 28 and 38 percent among tocilizumab-treated and non-tocilizumab-treated patients respectively.
And finally...
*) NASA spacecraft lands on asteroid Bennu to grab sample
After a four-year journey, NASA's robotic spacecraft Osiris-Rex has briefly touched down on asteroid Bennu's boulder-strewn surface.
The mission is to collect at least 60 grams of surface samples that scientists hope will help unravel the origins of our solar system.
This precision operation is taking place 330 million kilometres from Earth.
*) Mics to be muted in US presidential debate to stop interruptions
The US Commission on Presidential Debates has changed the rules for Thursday's final debate.
Both candidates, President Donald Trump and Democratic rival Joe Biden, will have their microphones muted while their opponent answers questions.
Trump's campaign has challenged the format of their upcoming debate.
*) Azerbaijan accuses Armenia of violating the new ceasefire
Azerbaijan has accused Armenia of attacking a cotton factory with artillery, but Armenia denies Azerbaijan's accusations.
UN Security Council members called on both to respect a new ceasefire during a meeting on Monday.
The council held closed-door discussions on the fighting, at the UN headquarters in New York.
*) US charges Russians in cyberattacks on Ukraine, French elections, and Olympics
US federal prosecutors have charged six Russian intelligence officers, accusing them of widespread, global cyberattacks.
The cyberattacks targeted a French presidential election, the Winter Olympics in South Korea and American businesses.
The indictment said all defendants are current and former officers in the Russian military intelligence agency known as the GRU.
*) US to remove Sudan from state sponsors of terrorism list
US President Donald Trump says his administration is close to an agreement with Sudan to remove the country from Washington's list of states that support terrorism.
The announcement comes after the new Sudanese government agreed to pay more than $330 million in compensation to American victims.
The deal could also help Sudan establish diplomatic relations with Israel.
And finally...
*) New “Sesame Street” podcast aims to help children’s education
“Sesame Street” is launching a podcast to help educate kids.
“The Sesame Street Podcast with Foley & Friends” is an offering on Audible that gives some screen-free educational entertainment to kids.
The podcast is led by 6-year-old exuberant Foley, “the sound-maker monster.”
*) Azerbaijan retakes 13 more villages under Armenian occupation
Azerbaijan says it has freed 13 more villages in the Jabrayil region from Armenian occupation.
Meanwhile, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has condemned attacks from both Azerbaijan and Armenia on populated areas.
Guterres wants both sides to abide by a new humanitarian truce and resume negotiations without delay.
*) Rallies held across France in tribute to beheaded teacher
Thousands of people gathered in cities across France to pay their respects to a history teacher, who was stabbed and decapitated on Friday.
Police say the teacher had received threats after showing his secularism class cartoons of Prophet Muhammed.
The attacker, an 18-year-old Chechen refugee, was shot and killed by police. Eleven others have also been arrested.
*) TRNC PM wins presidential election
Ersin Tatar has won the presidential run-off in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Tatar got 52 percent of votes, defeating his rival Mustafa Akinci.
The main issue during the election campaign has been the long-stalled reunification talks with the Greek Cypriots.
While Tatar favours a two-state solution, Akinci insists on reunification.
*) Chile anniversary rallies turn violent
Tens of thousands of people gathered in Chile's capital Santiago to mark the first anniversary of mass protests.
Demonstrators banged on pots, calling for a "yes" vote in next week's referendum over whether to scrap the country's dictatorship-era constitution.
But Sunday's peaceful rallies devolved by nightfall into riots and looting, with police firing tear gas and using water cannons to disperse the crowds.
And finally...
*) New Zealand's next parliament to be its most diverse ever
New Zealand’s next parliament is set to be the most inclusive ever.
It includes female candidates, indigenous Maoris, and MPs of African and Sri Lankan descent.
Forty-year-old PM Jacinda Ardern is feted globally as a progressive leader, who is a champion for women’s rights, equality and inclusivity.
*) Trump, Biden replace debate with rival Town Hall meetings
US President Trump and his Democratic opponent Joe Biden held rival town halls on competing TV networks as a replacement for their second debate.
Trump was grilled by NBC News in Miami, and on ABC News, Joe Biden answered questions in Philadelphia.
Even though the candidates didn't appear together, there were still the same issues, insults, and revelation.
And with less than three weeks to go until the election, there are still some voters who haven't made up their minds.
*) Azerbaijan says eight more villages have been liberated from Armenian forces
Azerbaijan has retaken control of 51 villages in the disputed occupied Karabakh region.
President Ilham Aliyev says he believes the conflict can be solved with dialogue.
Relations between the two former Soviet republics have been tense since 1991, when the Armenian military occupied the Karabakh region, an internationally-recognised territory of Azerbaijan. *) Protesters demand release of leaders in Bangkok
Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters in Thailand gathered in Bangkok in defiance of a government order.
They are calling for the release of at least 20 activists who were arrested in a sweeping crackdown by police.
Demonstrators are demanding the ouster of the prime minister and a reform of the extensive powers of the monarchy.
*) Mexico says ex-defence minister arrested in US
Former Mexican Defence Minister Salvador Cienfuegos has been arrested in the US on undisclosed charges.
Cienfuegos headed the defence ministry of former President Enrique Pena Nieto.
Under his watch, the Mexican army was accused of frequent human rights abuses.
And finally...
*) Twitter service restored following global platform outage
Twitter has been restored after an internal technical problem caused a global outage.
According to downdetector.com, users on every continent reported being unable to use the platform for at least two hours.
The company said there was no evidence of a security breach or hack.
*) Turkey favours permanent solution to Karabakh row
Turkey's President Erdogan has told his Russian counterpart Putin that Ankara is in favour of a permanent solution to the conflict over occupied Karabakh.
The two leaders discussed the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict in a phone call on Wednesday.
The conflict continues despite an agreed ceasefire days ago. Baku claims Armenia is sending additional troops and firepower towards the border.
*) More than 20 protesters arrested in Thailand
Thai police have arrested more than 20 people under sweeping new emergency measures after Wednesday's protests demanding constitutional reform.
Activists say a handful of high-profile leaders were among those detained.
Protesters in Thailand have pledged to defy a government ban on mass demonstrations, with more protests expected on Thursday.
*) Trump, Biden to compete over air time with simultaneous town halls
US President Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Biden will participate in duelling town halls tonight instead of clashing face-to-face in their second debate.
This follows Trump's refusal to participate in a virtual debate instead of the in-person event after he contracted Covid-19.
Both candidates visited battleground states this week, with Trump holding rallies in Florida, Pennsylvania and Iowa and Biden travelling to Ohio and Florida.
*) FDA approves Regeneron's drug for Ebola virus treatment
FDA has approved Regeneron Pharmaceuticals' triple antibody cocktail as the first Ebola virus treatment, raising hopes for similar drugs being developed for Covid-19.
Regeneron's Inmazeb, an intravenous drug, was approved for adults and children.
The drugmaker is in talks with the FDA about an emergency use authorisation for its experimental dual antibody cocktail for Covid-19.
And finally...
*) Facebook shuts NZ party page before polls
Facebook has shut down the page of conspiracy-embracing political party Advance New Zealand just two days away from a general election.
The newly formed Advance NZ Party's page was taken off because of "repeated violations" of Facebook's policy on misinformation about the virus.
Facebook's action against a registered political party during an election campaign is unprecedented in New Zealand.
Facebook has also limited the distribution of a New York Post article critical of US presidential nominee Biden.
*) Baku accuses Armenia of 'war crimes' for ceasefire violation
Hundreds of people have been killed as the fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia escalates yet again.
The two countries are battling over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but is under Armenian occupation.
The deadly clashes have now spilt over into surrounding areas despite calls for the two nations to honour a Russian-brokered ceasefire.
*) Kyrgyzstan parliament approves new week-long state of emergency
Kyrgyzstan's parliament has approved a week-long state of emergency in the country's capital, Bishkek.
It includes a curfew, a ban on rallies and travel restrictions. The decree also enables troops to be sent to the capital to enforce the measure.
It comes amid continued protests over a disputed parliamentary election.
*) Amy Coney Barrett dodges questions on healthcare, abortions
US President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee has evaded questions about her views on several key issues.
On day two of her Senate confirmation hearing, Amy Coney Barrett refused to be drawn into a debate about abortion and healthcare.
If she passes the committee hearing, the full Senate will vote on whether to confirm her appointment.
Democrats fear Barrett would favour Republicans in any politically sensitive cases that come up before her.
*) Trump, Biden hold presidential campaigns in swing states
President Donald Trump and Democratic rival Joe Biden are taking their election campaigns to two swing states as the race to the White House heats up.
Trump's second campaign rally since his bout with Covid-19 is taking place in Pennsylvania.
Meanwhile, Biden is in Florida. Political analysts believe a win there would more or less ensure him the presidency.
And finally...
*) Apple unveils new iPhones for faster 5G wireless networks
Apple has launched its next-generation iPhone 12, with faster 5G connectivity. But the network speed it promised may not be available to Americans.
The issue lies with America's mobile carriers. Most of them aren't totally up to speed on their 5G nationwide rollouts.
The giant is already running behind rivals Samsung and Huawei, who are already onto their second 5G models with faster networks in South Korea and China.
*) Trump back on campaign trail
US President Donald Trump's doctors confirmed he has tested negative for Covid-19.
The announcement comes as Trump returns to the campaign trail in Florida with just three weeks to go until the presidential election.
Trump told the rally that he feels powerful and that he's no longer infectious.
*) Russia pushes Armenia and Azerbaijan to stick to ceasefire
Azerbaijan and Armenia are accusing each other of violating a Russian-brokered ceasefire amid fresh outbreaks of fighting.
Russia's Foreign Minister has been holding talks with his Armenian counterpart, and says Moscow is pushing both countries to comply with the agreement.
The fighting has also spread to civilian areas outside occupied Karabakh.
*) Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim ready to become PM
Malaysia's opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has met with the king, to prove he has enough support to replace the current prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin.
Ibrahim says he has secured the needed majority, but it will be up to the king to appoint him.
This follows months of political uncertainty and the collapse of the governing coalition.
*) Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine trial paused
Johnson & Johnson has temporarily paused its Covid vaccine trial after a volunteer became sick with an unexplained illness.
The patient's health is being assessed by both the company's physicians and an independent board.
The company said pauses are normal in big trials like this, which has over 60,000 patients.
And finally...
*) Peru's Machu Picchu reopens for just one tourist
The majestic Machu Picchu has reopened, but for just a single visitor.
26-year-old Jesse Katayama became the only person in the world to visit the ancient site.
He had been stranded in the country and appealed to the local tourism authority, which agreed to give him special permission to visit the Incan city.
*) Trump claims his now immune to coronavirus
US President Donald Trump has told his Twitter followers that he's now immune to the coronavirus.
Trump tweeted that he'd been given a clean bill of health after his diagnosis more than a week ago.
But Twitter flagged the tweet saying it had violated rules against spreading misinformation about Covid-19.
*) Armenian attack on Azerbaijani city leaves several dead
Azerbaijan's president has accused Armenia of committing war crimes.
The accusation comes after the city of Ganja in Azerbaijan was hit by an Armenian missile strike.
The attack killed at least nine civilians and violated a humanitarian ceasefire between the two countries.
*) Study shows coronavirus can survive on items up to 28 days
Australian scientists say the novel coronavirus can survive on everyday items for up to 28 days if left in a cool and dark place.
During a longevity test, scientists found that virus survival rates decreased as conditions became hotter.
The virus seems to survive longer on glass, steel and plastic, and for shorter periods on porous surfaces such as cotton.
*) Bangladesh considers introducing death penalty for rapists
The government in Bangladesh will hold a special meeting today to consider introducing the death penalty for rapists.
It comes after eight days of protests around the country against a surge in sexual violence against women.
The demonstrations were sparked by a video of a group of men stripping and sexually assaulting a woman for almost 30 minutes in the southeastern district of Noakhali.
And finally...
*) LA Lakers win 17th NBA title
The Los Angeles Lakers have won their 17th NBA Championship title after beating Miami Heat 106 to 93 in game six of the Playoffs.
LeBron James was named MVP after adding 28 points to Sunday's game.
The team dedicated the win to former player Kobe Bryant and his daughter, who both died in a helicopter crash earlier this year.
US President Donald Trump has rejected a virtual debate with Biden, and all eyes are on 2020 Nobel peace prize
*) US President Trump vows not to do a virtual debate with Biden
US President Trump has said the new virtual format announced by the Commission on Presidential Debates was not acceptable to him.
Trump returned to work in the Oval Office just six days after testing positive for coronavirus despite warnings that his return could put others at risk.
The president said he might try to do a rally on Saturday night, probably in Florida.
*) Azerbaijan continues operation to save territories in occupied Karabakh
Russia has said the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia have accepted its invitations for talks in Moscow today.
The Kremlin’s invitation followed reports of fresh clashes in the ongoing military conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
The recent fighting, which flared on September 27, has increased concerns about the security of pipelines that carry natural gas and oil to Europe.
*) US imposes sanctions on major banks in Iran
Washington has slapped fresh sanctions on Iran’s financial sector, targeting 18 banks to further shut Tehran out of the global banking system.
US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the action would “stop illicit access to US dollars”.
According to Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, the US wants to starve Iran’s population and choke their remaining channels for food and medicine.
*) FBI foils plot to kidnap Michigan governor
The FBI has said it’s thwarted a plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and forcibly depose its government.
At least 13 people, including seven men associated with the Wolverine Watchmen militia group, have been arrested for the alleged plots.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer accused US President Trump of encouraging extremist groups that targeted her.
And finally...
*) World Food Programme wins Nobel peace prize
The UN World Food Programme has won the 2020 Nobel peace prize.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee said a total of 211 individuals and 107 organisations entered the race.
The 2019 peace prize went to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for his efforts to resolve the border conflict with neighbouring Eritrea.
Azerbaijan's foreign minister to meet international mediators over Karabakh conflict and two women scientists win Nobel chemistry prize.
*) Azerbaijan top diplomat to meet international mediators
The recent military conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over occupied Karabakh has entered its second week.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov will meet the leaders of OSCE’s Minsk Group in Geneva to discuss the issue.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin ruled out intervention in the conflict as it does not fall within the scope of Moscow's pact with Armenia.
*) Kamala Harris and Mike Pence spar at vice presidential debate
Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has made history by becoming the first Black women to stand on a vice presidential debate stage.
US Vice President Mike Pence and Harris faced off in a strikingly less contentious debate than last week’s presidential square up.
The two sparred on Covid-19, taxes, economy, the trade war with China and climate change.
Election Day is less than four weeks away and millions of Americans are already casting ballots.
*) Greek court rules Golden Dawn operating as criminal organisation
A Greek court has found neo-Nazi Golden Dawn party guilty of operating as a criminal organisation.
The court’s landmark ruling said seven of the party’s former lawmakers, including party leader Nikos Michaloliakos, are guilty of leading a criminal organisation.
Police used tear gas and a water cannon as clashes broke outside the courthouse in Athens at an anti-fascist rally after the ruling.
*) Russia puts Belarus opposition leader on its wanted list
Russia has placed Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on its wanted list.
Tikhanovskaya faces charges in Belarus over allegedly making public calls to harm the country’s security, according to Russian news agency RIA.
The 38-year-old took refuge in Lithuania following her claim to have beaten long-running leader Alexander Lukashenko in the August election.
And finally...
*) Two women win Nobel chemistry prize for gene-editing tool
Emmanuelle Charpentier of France and Jennifer Doudna of the US have won the Nobel chemistry prize for their work on CRISPR, a gene-editing technique.
The two researchers can change the DNA of animals, plants and microorganisms with extremely high precision using the tool.
Charpentier and Doudna are the first all-women team and the sixth and seventh women to receive the Nobel prize in chemistry.
*) Armenia reportedly assaults Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline
Azerbaijan has said its forces thwarted an Armenian missile attack on the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline.
The BTC pipeline delivers Azerbaijani light crude oil through Georgia to Turkey’s Mediterranean port of Ceyhan for export via tankers.
Azerbaijan described the attack that took place amid the ongoing conflict around the occupied Karabakh region as a “terrorist act”.
*) Trump halts virus stimulus talks until after election
US President Donald Trump has called off talks on a new stimulus plan to boost the coronavirus-ravaged economy until after the election.
Meanwhile, virus cases in Trump’s inner circle have been rising ever since the US president announced he was infected last week.
The Pentagon said that top US military leaders are under self-quarantine after a senior Coast Guard official tested positive for the coronavirus.
*) Kyrgyz opposition faction claims state power in rift with allies
Kyrgyzstan's opposition faction has said it was assuming all state powers and dissolving parliament in a rift with its former allies.
Opposition groups took control of most of the government apparatus on Tuesday after storming buildings during protests over the October 4 parliamentary election.
Unrest over the vote killed at least one person and left almost 700 injured.
*) Deadly car bomb strikes Syria’s Al Bab
A car bomb has killed at least 14 people, mostly civilians, in the northern Syrian city of Al Bab.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility but investigators are considering the possibility that the YPG/PKK terror group might be behind the attack.
Last month, an attack on a Turkish Red Crescent vehicle in Al Bab killed a member of the aid agency and wounded another.
And finally...
*) Deep ocean is a sink for 14 million tonnes of microplastics
The world’s sea floor is littered with an estimated 14 million tonnes of microplastics, according to Australia’s national science agency.
“Plastic pollution that ends up in the ocean deteriorates and breaks down, ending up as microplastics,” study lead Justine Barrett said.
Marine plastic pollution affects ecosystems, wildlife and human health.
*) Trump returns to White House after a three-night stay in hospital
US President Donald Trump is back at the White House after being discharged from the hospital for coronavirus.
Trump, diagnosed with the virus on Thursday, hasn't had a fever in more than 72 hours and his oxygen levels are normal.
Don't be afraid of Covid-19, Trump said after his return from the hospital about the disease that has killed more than 209,000 people in the US.
*) Early voting in the US is set to begin in New Mexico and Ohio
In the US, early voting for the 2020 presidential election is set to begin in New Mexico and swing state Ohio.
Voters can cast their ballots in-person at county elections offices and other locations ahead of the November 3 election.
This comes a day after California and Idaho opened their polls and already more than 28 million ballots have been requested.
*) Amidst allegations of vote rigging in Kyrgyzstan, angry protestors free former president
Rioters in Kyrgyzstan have freed ex-president Almazbek Atambayev from prison, while protesting the results of a parliamentary election.
They've occupied the presidential palace and parliament buildings in the capital, Bishkek, over allegations of vote-rigging in Sunday's election.
Only four parties out of 16 passed the seven percent threshold for entry into parliament, and three of them have close ties to President Sooronbay Jeenbekov.
*) NATO calls on Azerbaijan and Armenia to cease fire
NATO has urged Azerbaijan and Armenia to agree on an unconditional ceasefire as the conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region spreads.
The two countries accuse each other of attacking civilian areas with dozens killed or injured.
Turkey labelled Armenia's attacks on Azerbaijan "war crimes" as rocket and missile strikes target densely populated Azerbaijani cities.
And finally...
*) Hundreds of thousands chained up over mental health
Human Rights Watch has reported that hundreds of thousands of men, women and children with mental health conditions are living chained up in roughly 60 countries.
Without support or awareness, families or institutions often shackle people against their will, leaving them in a small space.
Leading up to World Mental Health Day on October 10, the report focuses on almost 800 interviews with people suffering from psychosocial disabilities in countries like China, Nigeria and Mexico.
*) Trump takes car ride to greet his supporters outside hospital
US President Donald Trump sparked criticism after taking a car ride to greet his supporters outside the hospital while being treated for Covid-19.
Doctors treating Trump said he's recovering well from the virus, and is on a course of medication that includes the anti-inflammatory drug Dexamethasone.
White House doctors said the president could be discharged as early as today.
*) Armenia attacks Ganja city in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan's second largest city Ganja, is under heavy attack by Armenian forces as clashes in the occupied Karabakh region continue.
The defence ministry says at least one person was killed and 32 others were injured in Ganja city.
Azerbaijan called the move provocative, and an attempt to escalate the conflict.
*) Turkey’s President Erdogan and Libya’s Sarraj meet in Istanbul
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with Libyan President Fayez al Sarraj in Istanbul where they discussed bilateral and regional developments. Turkey reiterated its priority to ensure stability in Libya. Erdogan also welcomed the UN's certification of the Delimitation of Maritime Jurisdiction agreement signed by the two countries. *) Anti-govt protests in Belarus continue
Police in Belarus used water cannons to disperse crowds during the latest round of demonstrations in the capital, Minsk.
Thousands turned up to protest against the disputed re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.
Demonstrators are also calling on authorities to free political prisoners, and stop arbitrary detentions.
And finally...
*) Pets get blessed in Philippines on World Animal Day
Coronavirus-wary animal owners in the Philippines had their pets blessed in a drive-through ceremony in celebration of the feast of Saint Francis. The animals were sprinkled with holy water by a Catholic priest in Manila. Organisers and participants said this year's unusual blessing was held in honour of animal rights and welfare.
*) Trump and First Lady Melania tested positive for coronavirus
Donald Trump and his wife Melania have tested positive for the coronavirus.
Trump, who has spent much of the year downplaying the threat of the virus, says they both are in quarantine.
Trump tested positive hours after his senior aide Hope Hicks came down with Covid-19 after travelling with the president several times this week.
*) Azerbaijan liberates key points amid border clashes
Azerbaijan says its army has pushed Armenian forces out of some critical points in occupied areas.
Its Defence Ministry says the Armenian army were forced to withdraw from strategic points.
Armenia has announced its willingness to engage with the OSCE to re-establish a ceasefire in occupied Karabakh, where fighting has been raging since Sunday.
*) Turkey, Greece agree on deconfliction mechanism in East Med
Turkish and Greek military delegations have reached a "common understanding" to ease tensions in the eastern Mediterranean.
A NATO statement said the agreement between Turkey and Greece included a hotline to avoid incidents at sea and in the air.
A series of talks are on the books, after a phone call between President Erdogan and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
*) Thousands of US-bound Honduran migrants cross into Guatemala
Thousands of mostly Honduran migrants bound for the US have surged across the border into Guatemala.
The migrants defied coronavirus restrictions and pushed past two lines of Guatemalan soldiers at the border crossing to continue north.
Guatemalan Migration Institute officials said some 3,000 people had crossed the border without submitting to a Covid-19 test.
And finally...
*) Lebanese artists in overdrive to restore Beirut's beauty
Lebanese stained glass expert Maya Husseini is one of several artists starting to restore artworks destroyed by the blast that ripped through Beirut.
The massive explosion at the capital's port on August 4 ravaged dozens of Beirut's most cherished heritage buildings.
In neighbourhoods near the port, the race is on to cover up 100 heritage buildings before the autumn rain.
*) Azerbaijan, Armenia no closer to ending clashes
Fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh has entered the fifth day.
Turkey says the only solution is for Armenia to end its occupation while Russia and France urge the two neighbours to negotiate over the decades-old conflict.
More than 100 people – including civilians – have been killed in the clashes that flared up on Sunday.
*) US to slash refugee admissions to new low
The US intends to allow only 15,000 refugees to resettle in the country in the 2021 fiscal year.
The State Department said the proposal reflects the Trump administration’s prioritising of the “safety and well-being of Americans, especially in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.”
The US cut the refugee cap to 18,000 last year but only roughly half that many refugees were let in as increased vetting slowed arrivals.
*) Anger after Indian police cremate gang-rape victim
Protests have erupted in India after the family of a 19-year old, who was gang-raped, said her body was cremated without permission.
The young woman, who was a Dalit, the lowest caste in the Hindu caste system in India, was brutally attacked two weeks ago and left severely injured.
She died of her injuries on Tuesday. Her alleged attackers have been arrested but there's anger over how the case is being handled.
*) Security tight in Hong Kong ahead of expected National Day protest
Security is tight in Hong Kong with a heavy police presence seen on the streets ahead of an expected China National Day march by anti-Beijing protesters.
The People's Republic of China celebrates its founding on October 1 but in Hong Kong, it has become a day of grievance for its anti-Beijing residents.
Protests in Hong Kong have been outlawed for most of this year over coronavirus and after a strict security law was implemented in June.
And finally...
*) Thracian sun disc discovered in northwest Turkey
Archaeologists have discovered a 3,500-year-old sun disc in Turkey's northwestern Suakacagi village.
This particular sun disc is considered to be of importance because it was found at the altar of a Thracian temple and points to the west, possibly signifying the September and March equinoxes.
The sun disc and the nearby settlements are believed to date back to the late bronze age, or early iron age.
*) Biden and Trump trade heated barbs in first US presidential debate
Joe Biden and Donald Trump exchanged heated barbs and attacked each other's competence and credibility during the first 2020 US presidential debate.
The debate covered several topics, including coronavirus, racism, the Supreme Court, economy and healthcare.
The moderator often had a hard time keeping the candidates on topic as the two men competed for a slim slice of undecided voters.
*) UN fears Armenia-Azerbaijan clashes will spiral into all-out war.
The UN Security Council fears ongoing clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia could spiral into an all-out war.
After an emergency session, the council demanded that fighting stop immediately.
Tensions between the two former Soviet nations flared on Sunday over the disputed Karabakh border region.
*) UK and Canada impose sanctions on Belarus
The UK and Canada are the first western powers to impose sanctions on Belaraus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son and senior officials.
Both countries also issued travel bans and froze assets belonging to the men.
The Belarus government is accused of rigging the presidential election that secured Lukashenko a sixth consecutive term in office but launched the country into a political crisis with widespread protests.
*) Disney will lay off around 28,000 employees
Walt Disney will lay off around 28,000 employees after the business was hit by the pandemic.
The redundancies will mostly happen at US theme parks, where ticket sales have stalled as most parks remain closed.
The company says about two-thirds of laid-off employees will now work part-time.
And finally...
*) The Emir of Kuwait dies at 91
The Emir of Kuwait, who had been receiving medical treatment in the US, has died at the age of 91.
Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah was known for his efforts in shaping Kuwait's modern foreign policy.
His half brother, Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf al Ahmad al Sabah, has been named his successor.
*) Fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia continues
Fighting continues between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the disputed border region of Karabakh.
Early on Tuesday, the neighbouring countries engaged in the fiercest round of attacks in more than a quarter of a century.
The Azerbaijan Defence Ministry said Armenian forces attempted to recover lost ground by launching counterattacks but failed.
*) Police clash with pro-abortion rights protesters in Mexico
Hundreds of women have marched through Mexico's capital to demand a nationwide legalisation of abortion.
Police used pepper spray on demonstrators and shields to block them from marching to Mexico City's central plaza.
Feminist groups have started taking a more hardline stance against violence against women in Mexico where ten women are murdered every day.
*) Amnesty accuses France of using ‘vague laws’ to crack down on protests
Rights group Amnesty International is accusing France of using "vague laws" when cracking down on anti-government and anti-police brutality protests.
The group published a report saying French authorities are resorting to "overly broad laws to arrest and prosecute thousands of protesters who did not commit violent acts."
Amnesty's report said many peaceful protesters have been fined, arrested and prosecuted.
*) Trump and Biden to face off in first US presidential debate
Millions of Americans are expected to tune in to the first customary televised presidential debate.
President Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Joe Biden will face off on Tuesday night in a contest pundits predict will get personal.
With the election only five weeks away, the two contenders will have the opportunity to present their rival visions of the nation's future to voters.
And finally...
*) Milan fashion week celebrates Black designers
Black designers have presented collections at Milan's fashion week to raise awareness of the lack of diversity in the industry.
The five designers are part of a group called “Black Lives Matter in Italian Fashion,” inspired by the international movement against racial injustice.
The event "We are Made in Italy" is a virtual show of the first fashion week since the coronavirus pandemic began.
*) India coronavirus cases pass 6 million
India now has over 6 million coronavirus cases, according to government data.
The country is now on course to pass the US with the highest number of infections in the world.
The Asian country has also recorded close to 100,000 deaths.
*) Azerbaijan and Armenia clash over disputed Karabakh region
The international community is calling for an end to fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Azerbaijan says Armenian forces opened fire on the frontlines of the occupied Karabakh region, but Armenia says it was Azerbaijan that attacked first.
The two former Soviet countries have long been in conflict over a border dispute, with clashes intensifying in recent months.
*) US Judge blocks Trump administration’s TikTok ban
A US federal judge has suspended the government's ban on TikTok.
The popular app had sought a preliminary injunction to allow it to remain available on US app stores.
The White House had called the app a national security threat over its alleged ties with the Chinese government.
*) New wildfire in California’s wine country
In the US, firefighters are battling a new wildfire that broke out in California's Napa County.
As fires continue to rage across the state, the new fire is spreading at a dangerous speed after already burning through more than 400 hectares.
Thousands of residents have been evacuated from the area.
And finally...
*) Trump could face tax trouble in New York
US President Trump has paid no federal income taxes in 10 of the past 15 years, according to a report on his tax returns published by the New York Times.
The report says Trump paid just $750 in taxes in 2016, and again during his first year in office.
Trump denies the allegations as he fights a subpoena which will allow prosecutors full access to his tax records.
*) Fatah and Hamas agree to hold first Palestinian elections since 2006
Rival Palestinian groups Fatah and Hamas have agreed to hold the first parliamentary elections in nearly 15 years.
Leaders from the two sides have been meeting in Istanbul, and have agreed to hold a poll within six months.
The last Palestinian elections were held in 2006 when Hamas won by an unexpected landslide.
The fresh talks are seen as an attempt by Palestinians to present a united front as Arab states normalise relations with Israel.
*) Fighting leaves dozens of Taliban insurgents dead in Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, security forces have killed at least 65 Taliban militants in an intense battle in the east of the country.
The Taliban stormed a military headquarters in Paktika province but were driven back and suffered heavy losses in a counterattack, according to police.
The violence comes as Taliban and Afghan government negotiators meet in Doha in an attempt to end 19 years of war.
*) Louisville arrests at least 24 at Breonna Taylor protests
At least 24 people have been arrested in Louisville, Kentucky in the second night of protests over the lack of criminal charges in the police killing of Breonna Taylor.
More than 1,000 people defied a curfew to protest, with some seeking refuge in a church.
Heavily armed police surrounded the church, with helicopters overhead, but the demonstrators were released around 11 pm.
*) Anti-Beijing activist Joshua Wong arrested in Hong Kong
A Hong Kong court has charged anti-Beijing activist Joshua Wong over taking part in an unauthorised gathering in October and violating a mask ban.
His arrest follows the implementation of China's national security law in the territory almost three months ago.
Wong is out on bail and is due back in court at the end of this month.
And finally...
*) Rio de Janeiro delays 2021 Carnival parade over coronavirus
Rio's world-famous carnival parade has been delayed for the first time in a century.
Officials say the spread of Covid-19 in Brazil has made it impossible to hold the event safely.
A decision about carnival street parties is yet to be announced. Brazil is the third worst-hit country in the world with more than 4.6 million coronavirus cases.
*) New EU migrant plan abandons refugee quotas for ‘mandatory solidarity’
The European Union's executive has proposed a contentious plan to provide a better welcome for refugees fleeing the Middle East and Africa.
The plan, slammed by refugee rights groups, asks EU states to volunteer to either take in refugees or provide logistical support to countries allowing them in.
Intended for 2023, the plan also aims to ease the load on Mediterranean shore countries that see the most migrant arrivals.
*) Louisville officers shot during Breonna Taylor protests
A grand jury has decided that police officers who shot into Breonna Taylor's apartment and killed her will not be prosecuted for her death.
Hours after the grand jury's decision, authorities said two Louisville officers were shot and wounded in protests expressing anger over the killings of Black people.
The 26-year-old Black woman has since become a rallying cry for the Black Lives Matter movement.
*) Petrol tanker explosion in Nigeria kills killing dozens
At least 28 people have been killed after a fuel tanker crashed in Nigeria’s central state of Kogi.
The incident took place on the Lokoja-Abuja highway after a loaded petrol tanker lost control and rammed into a number of vehicles.
Occupants of the 10 vehicles involved were killed including a family that was crushed to death when the tanker fell on their car.
*) UN and Britain to co-host climate summit on December 12
The UN and Britain will co-host a global climate summit on December 12, the fifth anniversary of the landmark Paris Agreement.
The announcement comes days after China said it would attempt to go carbon neutral by 2060.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for swift action, saying “the climate emergency” is here and there is “no time to waste.”
And finally...
*) 70 whales have been rescued from Australia’s worst mass beaching
Australian authorities have said that 70 pilot whales have been rescued so far from the country’s worst mass stranding.
The number of rescues had been estimated at 50 late Wednesday, but 20 more came to light on Thursday.
An estimated 470 whales were found stranded on the shore and sand bars along the remote west coast of Tasmania.
*) Turkey and Greece agree to resume eastern Mediterranean talks
Turkey and Greece have agreed to resume talks aimed at addressing their contested maritime claims in the eastern Mediterranean and Aegean.
A statement from Turkish President Erdogan's office said both countries were ready to restart talks after four years.
The Greek Foreign Ministry said the two NATO allies will resume “exploratory talks” at a brief meeting in Istanbul.
*) World powers clash, virus stirs anger at virtual UN meeting
World leaders have convened electronically for an unprecedented high-level UN meeting, where China and Iran clashed with the US and officials raged over the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Turkish President Erdogan criticised how “countries were left on their own” at the onset of the pandemic.
He also called for the restructuring of the UN Security Council.
The UN chief urged unity in tackling the towering problems of Covid-19, the “economic calamity” it unleashed and the risk of a new Cold War between the US and China.
*) Saudi Arabia to lift ban on Umrah pilgrimage next month
After a seven-month pause due to coronavirus concerns, Saudi Arabia will allow residents to undertake the Muslim Umrah pilgrimage beginning on October 4.
The kingdom will only allow 30 percent of the revised capacity to perform the pilgrimage.
But starting November 1st, the kingdom will allow visitors from countries deemed safe to perform Umrah at 100 percent of the revised capacity.
*) Pakistani court sentences two to death over 2012 factory arson
Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Court has sentenced two former political party activists to death for starting the country’s deadliest industrial fire in 2012.
The blaze at the Baldia garment factory killed more than 260 workers.
The court ruled that the two workers from Pakistan's MQM party started the fire because the factory owners didn't give in to their extortion demands.
And finally.
*) Tesla cheaper battery and cheaper three years away
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has said his company aims to achieve a new Tesla model priced at $25,000 within the next three years.
This would be a dramatic markdown from Tesla's cheapest car, the Model 3, that usually ends up costing more than $40,000.
Investors slashed $50 billion from Tesla market value as Musk's announced shied away from "a done deal."
*) Global stocks wobble amid coronavirus fear
World equity markets have suffered heavy losses as investors reacted to mounting fears of a second coronavirus wave.
Crude oil prices plunged over expectations of less demand just as more supply from Libya became available.
The banking sector has also been rocked by a media probe that revealed massive sums of dirty money had flowed for years through some of the world's largest banks.
*) US slaps new sanctions on Iran amid EU defiance
The United States has renewed what it calls "previously terminated UN sanctions" on Iran's Defence Ministry and demanded that European powers follow suit.
The US has said the action was taken because Iran failed to uphold its nuclear deal commitments and the UN Security Council failed to extend an arms embargo on Iran.
However, the United Nations has said it is not up to Washington to make that decision.
Police release footage after officers shoot 13-year-old boy
Staying in the US, where police have released footage showing a 13-year-old boy with autism was shot by officers after his mother asked for help getting him to the hospital
The videos show Salt Lake City officers chasing the boy down an alley after they arrive at his home, then yelling at him to get on the ground.
The boy collapses after a series of shots ring out, moaning, “I don’t feel good. I don’t feel good.”
He survived but suffered broken bones and pierced organs.
*) EU fails to agree on Belarus sanctions
European Union foreign ministers have failed to impose sanctions on Belarus officials suspected of election fraud.
Around 40 people linked to irregularities in the August 9 elections would be the subject of asset freezes and travel bans if the sanctions pass.
Several EU countries want Belarus President Lukashenko on the sanction list, but others prefer to gradually ramp up pressure on him by adding names.
And finally,
*) Rescuers continue bid to save stranded whales in Australia
A challenging operation has been launched in Australia to rescue hundreds of stranded whales off the island of Tasmania.
Up to 90 whales have died and another 180 more are still stranded.
About 60 people, including volunteers and local fish farm workers, are battling cold, wet conditions to save them.
*) HSBC's Hong Kong shares plummet after reported illicit activity
Global banks in Hong Kong, including HSBC and Standard Chartered, have been transferring trillions of dollars in illegal funds for nearly two decades.
Leaked reports by the US Treasury's Financial Crimes watchdog FinCen show bank staff moved funds to unknown owners registered in offshore havens.
Although HSBC denied the claims, their Hong Kong shares have dropped to their lowest since 1995, with Standard Chartered’s shares also falling.
*) Woman arrested over suspicion of sending ricin letter to Trump
A woman suspected of sending a letter with poison to the White House has been arrested and is expected to face federal charges.
The envelope containing ricin appeared to have originated in Canada and was intercepted before it reached the White House.
The unnamed suspect was taken into custody by US Customs and Border Protection officers at the New York-Canada border.
*) Democratic candidate Joe Biden calls for Justice vote delay
Joe Biden has lashed out at US President Trump for wanting to replace the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s seat on the Supreme Court before presidential elections.
Biden has urged senators to delay a vote for a new Justice until after elections in November, and so far two Republican senators have agreed.
"A warrior for gender equality" in the US, Ginsburg was 87 when she died on Friday following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
*) Several killed in Mumbai building collapse
At least eight people have been killed in Mumbai in India after a three-storey residential building collapsed.
A disaster agency official said up to 25 people were believed to be trapped in the ruins since dawn on Monday.
The cause behind the collapse is still unknown but faulty building construction and unregulated urban planning are common in the region.
And finally,
*) History made at first virtual Emmy Awards ceremony
The 72nd Emmy Awards have taken place online due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The awards ceremony was hosted by comedian Jimmy Kimmel from a virtual studio in Los Angeles and nominees dialled in from their homes.
Twenty-four-year-old "Euphoria" star Zendaya made history, becoming the youngest woman to win Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
*) Dozens killed in Afghanistan clashes despite hope for ceasefire
Fierce fighting between government forces and the Taliban has left dozens killed in Afghanistan even as the two sides continue peace talks in Qatar.
Overnight clashes erupted in three districts of Nangarhar province when Taliban fighters attacked several checkpoints of Afghan forces.
The violence occurred hours after the Afghan government delegation to the peace talks in Doha said they hoped to reach a ceasefire.
*) East Med: Direct Erdogan, Mitsotakis talks a possibility ahead of EU summit
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again stressed the importance of talks with Greece over the dispute in the eastern Mediterranean.
Erdogan's remarks came after Turkish and Greek military delegations continued diplomatic talks to ease tensions at the NATO headquarters in Brussels.
A Greek official has said that direct communication between the Turkish president and Greek prime minister would soon be possible.
*) India asks China to withdraw soldiers from disputed border region
India has urged China to completely disengage their forces from the border region of Ladakh.
India’s defence minister Rajnath Singh has said that China has amassed troops and weapons in Ladakh in violation of agreements reached in the 1990s.
He said that was not acceptable and that India is seeking a peaceful resolution through talks. *) Hurricane Sally: Gulf Coast braces for second round of flooding
The southern United States is bracing for a second round of flooding in the wake of Hurricane Sally, which has left a trail of devastation in the Gulf Coast.
Officials say Orange Beach in Alabama will remain closed for 10 days as the area sustained significant damage and extensive power outages.
The hurricane is believed to have caused at least one death in Alabama.
And finally, *) Former model Amy Dorris accuses Trump of sexual assault
A former model has accused US President Donald Trump of sexually assaulting and groping her at the US Open tennis tournament in 1997.
Amy Dorris told Britain's The Guardian that Trump sexually assaulted her in his VIP suite at the US Open tennis tournament in New York.
Trump, who has earlier faced more than a dozen allegations of sexual misconduct, denied the claims via his lawyers.
*) Over 30 million people have been infected with Covid-19
Coronavirus has now infected more than 30 million people worldwide, according to the Worldometer tracker.
The United States has the highest number of Covid-19 infections, followed by India, Brazil and Russia.
More than 945,000 people have died from the virus so far, while over 21 million have recovered from the disease.
*) Libyan Prime Minister announces plan to resign next month
The head of Libya’s internationally recognised government Fayez al Sarraj has announced his intention to resign by next month.
Sarraj says he wants to hand over power to a new administration in October amid talks on ending the country’s conflict.
His resignation could add to political uncertainty in Tripoli or even infighting among the rivals in the coalition. *) Hurricane Sally drenches US Gulf coast, trapping hundreds
Hurricane Sally has slammed into the US Gulf coast, bringing catastrophic flooding to areas in Florida and Alabama.
One person has been killed and one other is missing after Sally made landfall as a Category Two storm overnight.
Extensive damage has been recorded as wind speeds hit 165 kilometres per hour. *) West African leaders give Mali’s military junta an ultimatum
The Economic Community of West African States has demanded the appointment of a civilian president without delay or negotiations in Mali.
During a meeting on Tuesday, West African leaders told Mali's junta they have one week to appoint a leader or an embargo will be imposed on the country.
The embargo by neighbouring states will begin at midnight September 23, according to Colonel Major Ismael Wague. And finally, *) Highly anticipated Sony PlayStation 5 gets launch date
Sony has said its next-generation PlayStation 5 console will launch in November, squaring off against Microsoft rival Xbox.
The new PlayStation 5 gaming system will be priced at roughly $500, but will also have a cheaper option that does not include a disk drive, priced at $400.
The pricing announcement sets the stage for a year-end showdown between Xbox and PlayStation as players continue to flock to gaming consoles.
*) Palestinians slam UAE, Bahrain deals with Israel
The Palestinians have slammed deals between Israel and two Gulf Arab states, calling them a "treacherous stab in the back".
The Palestinian reaction followed a signing ceremony at the White House in Washington that formalised Israel's ties with the UAE and Bahrain.
The Palestine Liberation Organization, the Palestine Liberation Front and Fatah all condemned the deals as agreements of "dependency, protection, and obedience with the occupation state".
*) Greece ready for eastern Mediterranean talks with Turkey
Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis says he's ready to enter exploratory talks with Ankara “immediately” over the eastern Mediterranean.
Turkey and Greece have been at loggerheads over maritime zones in the eastern Mediterranean which are potentially rich in natural gas.
The latest standoff began after Turkey deployed the Oruc Reis research vessel and warships to Mediterranean waters on August 10.
*) Japan elects Suga as new PM after Abe resigns
Japan’s parliament has elected Yoshihide Suga as the country’s new prime minister.
Suga was elected head of the ruling Liberal Democrat Party following the resignation of Shinzo Abe and his cabinet.
Abe announced last month that he was stepping down due to health problems.
*) Hurricane Sally threatens Gulf Coast
Hurricane Sally is moving toward the US Gulf Coast, possibly bringing with it "extreme, life-threatening" flash floods.
Sally has strengthened to a Category 2 storm and threatens massive flooding in Alabama and Mississippi.
Authorities in the coastal Alabama city of Gulf Shores warned of life-threatening conditions and ordered a curfew.
And finally,
*) Turkey's flying car completes its first test flight
Turkey's first domestically produced flying car Cezeri [jezerie] has successfully completed its first test flight.
The car is named after Ismail al Jazari, a renowned 12th-century Muslim engineer and polymath.
It's expected to take an estimated 10 to 15 years for the car to hit the roads.
Bahrain and the UAE set to sign normalisation deal with Israel at the White House, and scientists find potential life on Venus.
*) Normalisation deal between Israel, Bahrain and the UAE
Delegates of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Israel are meeting in Washington to sign a normalisation deal.
The Palestinian Liberation Organization has condemned the move by UAE and Bahrain, calling it a "stab in the back".
The deal has been welcomed by another Gulf country, Oman, leading many to believe it may be the next in line.
*) President Trump and Joe Biden clash over cause of wildfires
President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden have clashed over the cause of the deadly wildfires ravaging the US west coast.
Trump has dismissed climate concerns and blamed "poor forest management" as the cause.
In response, Biden called Trump a "climate arsonist" whose reelection would be catastrophic for the environment.
*) Turkish Red Crescent aid worker killed in vehicle attack
A Turkish aid worker was killed, and two others wounded, in an attack on their vehicle by masked assailants in northern Syria.
The vehicle, which bore the Red Crescent emblem, was attacked between Syria's Al Bab and the Turkish border town of Cobanbey.
The Turkish Red Crescent said the two workers who were wounded were not in a critical condition.
*)Blast kills several in Syria’s Afrin
Staying in Syria, at least nine people have been killed and 43 injured in a truck-bomb blast in Syria’s opposition-held Afrin city.
Afrin was largely cleared of YPG/PKK terrorists by Turkey in 2018 in anti-terror Operation Olive Branch.
Local security sources say YPG/PKK terrorists continue to carry out attacks but do not claim responsibility as they end up harming civilians.
And finally,
*) Life on Venus is a possibility
Scientists have discovered potential signs of life in the atmosphere around Earth's neighbouring planet Venus.
Telescopes in Hawaii and Chile spotted signs of phosphine gas in the clouds of Venus, hinting at the possible presence of microbes.
The discovery doesn't yet satisfy the “extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence" standard established by the late Carl Sagan.
US wildfire death toll rises past 30, and Oracle set to purchase TikTok.
*) California wildfires continue to burn West Coast
Wildfires torching the US West Coast have killed at least 35 people.
The fires have been burning for three weeks, spreading from California to Oregon.
Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated with dozens missing.
*) Belarus protests continue for 5th consecutive weekend
Tens of thousands of people have protested in Minsk for the fifth consecutive weekend to demand President Alexander Lukashenko’s resignation.
Approximately more than 100,000 people marched in Minsk on each of the past four weekends after Lukashenko’s disputed election victory.
The Belarusian president is set to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Sochi.
*) Turkey says France is inflaming tensions in eastern Mediterranean
Turkey says France’s President Emmanuel Macron is inflaming tensions between Ankara and Athens.
Comments by Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar follow France's push for EU sanctions on Turkey.
Tensions in the region have been high since Turkey resumed energy exploration in the eastern Mediterranean after Greece and Egypt signed a controversial maritime delimitation deal.
*) Bahrain opposition rejects Israel normalisation deal
Opposition groups in Bahrain have rejected a decision by the Gulf state to normalise relations with Israel.
The accord between Israel and Bahrain follows a US-brokered deal between the UAE and Israel to form diplomatic ties.
Bahrain's opposition has called on the region to resist the Israel pact, throwing support behind the Palestinian cause.
And finally,
*) Oracle to buy TikTok
Bytedance has rejected Microsoft's bid to buy TikTok's US operations, reportedly choosing Oracle as a buyer or "technology partner".
Bytedance was in talks with Microsoft ever since President Donald Trump threatened to shut down the Chinese-owned app last month.
TokTok's parent company hopes a deal with Oracle will allow the app to be spared from a US ban and appease Beijing at the same time.
*) Mass evacuations underway as wildfires gut US west coast
US firefighters are in a race against the clock to save lives and homes in the states of Washington, Oregon and California.
Half a million people have been evacuated in Oregon where wildfires are burning towns to the ground.
The death toll now stands at 15 and is expected to rise further.
*) China, India agree to disengage thousands of border troops
China and India have agreed to de-escalate tensions on their disputed Himalayan border.
The foreign ministers of both countries vowed to take steps to restore peace and maintain the status quo at a high-level diplomatic meeting in Moscow.
Border clashes which started in June, have seen dozens of soldiers killed on both sides.
*) EU countries take in refugees displaced from Lesvos
Thousands of refugees on the Greek island of Lesvos spent the third night in the open after the country's largest camp burned down. The Netherlands, Germany and France agreed to take in hundreds of refugees, while other EU states will take in around 400 minors.
The Moria camp was home to over 12,000 refugees from Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
*) Lebanon launches investigation into Beirut port fire
Lebanon has launched an investigation into a huge warehouse fire at the port of Beirut.
The massive fire started in a building that stored cooking oil, and it took firefighters hours to get under control.
There are no casualties and the cause of the fire is being investigated.
And finally,
*) Serena Williams knocked out of US Open
Serena Williams is out of the US Open after being beaten in the semifinals by Victoria Azarenka.
Williams was hoping to win her 24th Grand Slam to equal the world record held by the greatest player of all time, Margaret Court.
Williams says her focus is now on achieving the milestone at Roland Garros later this month.
Hundreds detained in Belarus as tens of thousands march against leader Lukashenko and Typhoon Haishen passes through Korea with less-than-expected damage.
*) Tens of thousands march against Lukashenko in Belarus, hundreds detained
Tens of thousands of protesters have participated in peaceful marches in Belarus, demanding the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko.
Sunday's demonstration in Minsk attracted over 100,000 people. Protests also took place in other major cities.
Lukashenko has refused to quit after his disputed re-election, turning to Russia for help to stay in power.
*) Erdogan calls on EU to take an impartial stance on east Med
Turkey says the EU's stance on the eastern Mediterranean conflict between Ankara and Athens will be a test of the bloc's sincerity.
Turkey's President Erdogan has told European Council President Charles Michel that provocations by European politicians will not help find a solution.
Erdogan's statement followed Michel's comments on the EU exploring a "carrot and stick" approach to Turkey at the upcoming EU Council meeting.
*) India overtakes Brazil by 70,000 Covid-19 cases
India has overtaken Brazil as the second worst-hit country by Covid-19 with over 4.2 million infections.
Setting another daily record with new 90,802 cases, India has the fastest-growing caseload in the world.
Globally, the novel coronavirus has infected more than 27.3 million people, causing the death of some 887,000 people.
*) Libya's rival governments meet for talks in Morocco
Delegates representing Libya's government and warlord Khalifa Haftar have met for talks in Morocco more than two weeks after the two sides announced a ceasefire.
Dubbed the "Libyan Dialogue", the talks brought together five members of the Tripoli-based government and five of the Tobruk parliament loyal to Haftar.
The meeting on Sunday was held at the initiative of Morocco at the coastal town of Bouznika, south of Rabat.
And finally,
*) Typhoon Haishen heads to Korea after hammering Japan
Powerful Typhoon Haishen has made landfall in South Korea after slamming into Japan's southern islands with record winds and heavy rains.
The storm prompted evacuation warnings for millions in Japan but appeared to pass through South Korea without major damage or casualties.
However, it left around 476,000 households without electricity, raising fears of heatstroke for those left without air conditioning.
*) NATO tries to broker Turkey-Greece talks over eastern Mediterranean
Greece says it has not agreed to talks with Turkey on eastern Mediterranean tensions after NATO announced both neighbours were on board.
Earlier, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said both countries had agreed to enter "technical talks" designed to avert a broader conflict.
A Greek frigate collided with a Turkish frigate in August and the two NATO members staged rival war games in the energy-rich but contested region last week.
*) Brazil’s coronavirus cases pass the 4 million mark
Brazil has recorded more than 4 million confirmed coronavirus cases, with 43,773 new cases and 834 deaths in the last 24 hours.
The world is witnessing a surge in the number of virus cases in recent weeks.
The coronavirus pandemic has killed more than 873,000 people, infecting some 26.4 million around the world.
*) Trump insults US WWI troops as ‘losers’ - reports
A new report has surfaced detailing multiple instances of President Trump referring to US troops buried in a French WWI cemetery as “losers” and “suckers” for getting killed in action.
The US president denied the allegations, calling The Atlantic article “totally false".
Critics took the opportunity to point to Trump’s denigrating comments about late senator John McCain, who was captured in Vietnam.
*) Facebook to ban new political ads on cusp of US election
Facebook has said it will ban new political advertising in the week before the US presidential election.
The social media giant vowed to fact-check premature claims of victory, as CEO Mark Zuckerberg warned of a “risk of civil unrest” after the vote.
If a candidate tries to declare himself the winner before a final tally, Facebook will add a label to their posts directing users to official results.
And finally,
*) Pulse raises hope of survivor one month after Beirut blast
Rescue workers are digging through rubble in a wrecked district of Lebanon's capital in search of possible survivors a month after the mega blast.
Search operations resumed early on Friday for survivors after a pulse and other signs of life were detected using a sniffer dog and scanners.
Lebanon is marking one month since the Beirut blast that killed 191 people and wounded thousands.
*) Suspected accomplices of Charlie Hebdo attackers on trial
Fourteen alleged accomplices to the gunmen who attacked French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo in 2015 have gone on trial.
The attack by homegrown militants Said and Cherif Kouachi had come after Charlie Hebdo published cartoons depicting Prophet Mohammad.
The assault that claimed 12 lives sparked a series of attacks on French soil, including by Daesh-inspired "lone wolves".
*) US court: Surveillance programme exposed by Snowden was illegal
An appeals court has ruled that the US National Security Agency's domestic eavesdropping operation exposed by Edward Snowden was illegal.
The court found US intelligence leaders who publicly defended the programme were not telling the truth and in violation of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.
NSA contractor Snowden fled to Russia in the aftermath of the 2013 disclosures and is facing US espionage charges.
*) US sanctions war crimes court prosecutor
The US has slapped sanctions on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court over an Afghanistan war crimes investigation.
The US has had long-standing issues with the ICC over a number of cases including probes into allegations of Israeli war crimes against Palestinians.
The Hague-based tribunal called the restrictions on ICC officials a "serious" attack against the rule of law.
*) Typhoon pummels South Korea
A powerful typhoon has ripped through South Korea’s southern and eastern coasts with tree-snapping winds and flooding rains
South Korea’s weather agency said Typhoon Maysak weakened to a tropical storm that was east of North Korea around midday.
The typhoon knocked out power to more than 270,000 homes and left at least one person dead.
And finally,
*) Venice Film Festival opens with tribute to coronavirus victims
The Venice Film Festival has opened with a tribute to those who lost their lives to the novel coronavirus.
The festival is the first major international entertainment event to take place in person since Covid-19 shuttered theatres and halted production.
Celebrities arrived on the island of Lido in face masks to a less glamourous red carpet, but organisers hope the films will take centre stage.
*) Turkey slams US decision to lift arms embargo on Greek Cypriots
Turkey says US decision to partially lift an arms embargo on Greek-administered Cyprus poisons hopes for peace in the eastern Mediterranean.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has announced restrictions on the sale of non-lethal defence articles and services to Cyprus would be waived.
Washington placed restrictions in 1987 to encourage efforts to unify the divided island and avoid an arms race there.
*) Trump brands Kenosha protests ‘domestic terror’
US President Donald Trump has branded anti-racism protests in Kenosha as acts of "domestic terror" by violent mobs.
Kenosha is the latest US city to see mass protests after a police shooting of an unarmed Black man.
Trump has been attempting to divert focus during his re-election campaign from his widely criticised coronavirus response to law enforcement.
*) Egypt to try ex-student for sexual assault in #MeToo case
Egypt is going to try a former student of an elite university on charges of sexual assault of three minors.
Public Prosecutor Hamada el-Sawy said the former student is also charged with blackmailing and sexually harassing the women, who were minors at the time.
The accused was arrested in July after the allegations against him went viral, resulting in a #MeToo movement firestorm on social media.
*) Macron: Lebanon leaders promise crisis cabinet in 15 days
Lebanon's leaders have pledged to form a crisis cabinet within two weeks to push forward with key reforms.
The announcement was made during French President Emmanuel Macron's second visit to Beirut since a deadly explosion there killed more than 180 people.
He attended muted celebrations marking the centenary of Greater Lebanon, shortly after political leaders settled on a new prime minister.
And finally,
*) ‘Game of Thrones’ creators join ‘Star Wars’ director for Netflix series
The creators of "Game of Thrones" are teaming up with a "Star Wars" director and Brad Pitt for a Chinese sci-fi series for Netflix.
Liu Cixin's book trilogy "The Three-Body Problem" will become an international series for the streaming giant.
The team from "Game of Thrones" will be joined by Rian Johnson, who directed "The Last Jedi," and Brad Pitt's Plan B Entertainment company.
*) First direct Israel-UAE flight lands in Abu Dhabi amid deal
The UAE and Israel have opened their doors to a wide range of business opportunities after the US-brokered agreement to normalise relations.
El Al plane, flying from Israel, carried a high-ranking US and Israeli delegation to Abu Dhabi in the first-ever direct commercial passenger flight between the two countries.
The UAE is the first Arab country to establish full diplomatic relations with Israel in more than 25 years.
*) Sudan government and rebel groups agree peace deal
Sudanese leaders and rebel commanders have agreed on a peace deal, a crucial step towards ending 17 years of conflict.
The deal covers key issues around security, land ownership, transitional justice, power sharing, and the return of people who fled their homes.
It also provides for the dismantling of rebel forces and the integration of their fighters into the national army.
*) Macron starts Lebanon trip by meeting iconic Lebanese diva
French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting Lebanon on a two-day trip to try and push leaders there towards reform
The French president, who was recently accused of neocolonialism towards Lebanon, is making his second visit to the country following the Beirut blast.
Donors from around the world had demanded an overhaul of the country's financial and political system in order to release the billions of dollars in aid.
*) Hamas, Israel agree to truce in Qatar-brokered deal
Hamas and Israel have agreed to end a weeks-long escalation of unrest along the volatile Israel-Gaza fence.
Under the deal, brokered by Qatari, Hamas would end the launching of incendiary balloons, and Israel would end air strikes.
Israel has bombed Gaza almost daily since August 6, in response to incendiary balloons and rare rocket launches from across the border.
And finally,
*) Facebook threatens ban on Australians sharing news in battle over media law
Facebook has threatened to block users and media organisations in Australia from sharing news stories.
It comes in response to Australian government’s plan to force Facebook and Google to pay struggling local news organisations for content or pay millions of dollars in fines.
The measures would also force transparency around the closely guarded algorithms that tech firms use to rank content.
*) Israel PM: 'Many more' secret talks with Arab leaders on ties
Israel is in secret talks with several Arab states after striking a US-backed deal with the UAE, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has said.
His statement on Israel's normalisation of ties with Arab and Muslim leaders comes on the eve of Tel Aviv's first commercial flight to the UAE.
The flight is carrying a US-Israeli delegation led on the US side by White House advisor and Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner.
*) India's Covid-19 case surge continues
India has reported more than 78,500 new cases of Covid-19, slightly fewer than the worldwide record of one-day infections it set the previous day.
The world's second-most populous country has more than 3.6 million confirmed cases with close to 65,000 fatalities.
India is relaxing restrictions on schools, public transport and shops despite the virus surge to protect its economy.
*) State police returning to Portland following deadly shooting
US President Donald Trump and Mayor Ted Wheeler have blamed each other after a man was shot in Portland amid race protests.
It is unclear whether the shooting is related to clashes between Trump supporters and people protesting against police brutality.
Portland has become a flashpoint in Black Lives Matter protests since unarmed Black man George Floyd was killed by police in May.
*) Montenegro's ruling party ahead in vote
In Montenegro, President Milo Dukanovic's Democratic Party of Socialists has narrowly beaten the alliance of mainly Serb nationalist parties.
Despite the win, it's the ruling party's worst performance since the establishment of the multi-party system in 1990.
The political parties now need to seek coalition partners as none secured the 41 deputies needed in the 81-seat parliament.
And finally,
*) MTV dedicates VMA show to 'true hero' Chadwick Boseman
MTV dedicated the Video Music Awards event to Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman, who died from colon cancer last week.
Host Keke Palmer said Boseman was “a true hero, not just on-screen but in everything he did.”
The show included performances that highlighted the hardships of a year marked by protests over systematic racism.
*) Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to resign over health problems
Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will resign over health problems.
Officials in his party and local media reported his decision after speculation about Abe’s health over two visits to a hospital recently.
He has battled the chronic disease ulcerative colitis for years.
*) Trump to impose tariffs for US companies leaving country
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on any company that leaves the US to create jobs elsewhere.
He said in his presidential nomination acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention that “Joe Biden’s agenda is Made in China. My agenda is Made in the USA.”
Trump has spent much of his first term waging a trade war against China over its trade practices, technology transfer and industrial policies.
*) Hurricane Laura leaves six dead in Louisiana
At least six people have been killed in Louisiana by Hurricane Laura, the most powerful storm to make landfall in the US state.
Hurricane Laura struck the coast of Louisiana early on Thursday as a Category 4 storm, the second-highest on the wind scale.
It has since been downgraded to a tropical storm.
*) Montenegro election tests pro-Western ruling camp
Montenegro is holding a parliamentary election marked by the coronavirus outbreak and ongoing tensions with Serbia.
Accused by rivals of spinning a web of clientelism and corruption, the ruling party could struggle to form a majority after Sunday's race.
Analysts and opinion polls ahead of the vote suggest the ruling party will win most votes but not enough to govern alone.
And finally,
*) NBA playoff games halted over racial injustice
An unprecedented NBA walkout over racial injustice postponed a second day of the playoffs although players pledged to finish the postseason.
They are still angry and emotional after the shooting of Jacob Blake, a Black man, by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
NBA spokesman Mike Bass said the league hoped to resume on Friday or Saturday.
*) Christchurch mosque gunman sentenced to life without parole
New Zealand mosque gunman Brenton Tarrant has been sentenced to life in prison without parole for killing 51 Muslim worshippers last year.
During sentencing Judge Cameron Mander told Tarrant: "It was brutal and beyond callous. Your actions were inhuman."
Crowds outside the courtroom were cheering and singing the national anthem to celebrate justice served.
*) Erdogan: 'No concessions' in east Mediterranean row
Turkey says it will make "no concessions" in the eastern Mediterranean, warning Greece to avoid taking steps that could lead to its "ruin."
Turkey's President Erdogan said the country will take whatever is rightfully its own in the Mediterranean, as well as the Aegean and the Black Sea.
His remarks came as Greece announced plans to extend its territorial waters along its western coastline with Italy.
*) Hurricane Laura makes landfall in US
Hurricane Laura has made landfall in Louisiana as a category 4 hurricane.
The US National Hurricane Center has called Laura "extremely dangerous"
The hurricane, packing maximum sustained winds of 150 miles per hour, is located about 64 km east of Port Arthur, Texas.
*) NBA postpones schedule after Bucks boycott over Jacob Blake
NBA has postponed its playoff games after the Milwaukee Bucks boycotted their game in protest against the police shooting of Jacob Blake.
The basketball league said all three scheduled games would not take place on Wednesday.
The Milwaukee Bucks' dramatic boycott follows outrage across the league after the latest police shooting of the unarmed black man by US police.
And finally,
*) TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer quits
TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer has quit the company as tensions soar between Washington and Beijing over the Chinese-owned video platform.
Mayer's resignation comes days after TikTok filed a lawsuit challenging a crackdown by the US government over claims the app spies on Americans.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order giving Americans 45 days to stop working with TikTok's Chinese parent company ByteDance.
*) Israel strikes Hezbollah positions after troops shot at from Lebanon
Israel's army has conducted air strikes on Hezbollah observation posts in Lebanon in response to fire from across the border directed at its troops.
An Israeli Army spokesperson earlier said there was a security incident on the border that is being investigated.
People in several Israeli border towns were asked to stay at home and avoid any outdoor activities.
*) Turkey says ready for talks with Greece with 'honest' EU mediation
Turkey has warned Greece against escalating tensions in the eastern Mediterranean or it will not hesitate to do "what is necessary.”
Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkey wants to solve the issue through dialogue and diplomacy but without preconditions.
German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas met with his counterparts in Greece and Turkey on Tuesday in a bid to de-escalate tensions between the NATO countries. ) Sentencing hearing under way for Christchurch attacker The sentencing hearing of the Australian man behind the mass shooting at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand in 2019 has entered its third day. Families of victims are asking the judge to apply the maximum sentence. Brenton Tarrant has already pleaded guilty to 51 counts of murder, 41 counts of attempted murder and a terrorism charge. ) Lawyer says Blake paralyzed, protests erupt for third night Jacob Blake, the Black man shot multiple times by police in Wisconsin, is paralysed, and it would “take a miracle” for him to walk again. Blake’s family attorney has called for the officer who opened fire to be arrested and others involved to lose their jobs. Blake’s shooting ignited protests with some demonstrations in Wisconsin devolving into unrest. Gunshots could be heard in one Kenosha neighbourhood where residents carrying long guns and other weapons could be seen in the streets. And finally, *) US court rejects Roman Polanski's bid to rejoin Academy Roman Polanski's legal battle against his expulsion from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was thrown out by a Los Angeles judge. "The Pianist" and "Rosemary's Baby" filmmaker fled the US in 1978 after admitting to the statutory rape of a 13-year-old girl. Polanski was expelled from the Los Angeles-based Academy after which he filed a petition to force the Oscars-awarding body to reverse its decision.
*) Republican party formally nominates Trump
US Republicans have formally nominated President Donald Trump as their candidate for November's election.
Day one of the Republican National Convention ended with speakers highlighting US economic growth despite millions left jobless by the pandemic.
Trump, who was at the convention, doubled down on his claim that the Democrats would try to steal the election.
*) Sentencing hearing continues for Christchurch attacker
In New Zealand, a sentencing hearing for Brenton Tarrant is in its second day.
Survivors and family members of Christchurch attack victims have been providing statements in what's expected to be a four-day hearing.
The court was told the white supremacist planned to burn down the mosques and had aimed to kill far more than the 51 people he shot dead.
*) Wisconsin deploys National Guard after shooting of Black man
The National Guard has been deployed in Kenosha, Wisconsin following protests over a police shooting of a Black man on Sunday.
Jacob Blake, 29, was listed in stable condition following surgery after being shot multiple times in the back.
Video footage of the shooting has sparked demonstrations, leading to authorities imposing an evening curfew on Sunday.
*) Gaza registers first cases outside quarantine centres
Gaza has announced a lockdown after the first Covid-19 cases outside quarantine areas were registered.
Four cases were detected in a refugee camp in central Gaza.
The previous 100 cases were all reported in quarantine centres where new arrivals have to stay for 21 days before being allowed to leave. And finally,
*) Trove of 1,000-year-old gold coins unearthed in Israel
Israeli archaeologists have discovered hundreds of gold coins, from more than a thousand years ago.
The discovery was made by teenagers volunteering at an excavation site near Tel Aviv.
The collection is made up of 425 pieces of pure gold, and dates back to the Abbasid dynasty.
The coins are an extremely rare find and the owner’s identity is still a mystery.
*) Sentencing of Christchurch mosque shooter begins
A New Zealand court has begun a four-day sentencing hearing for the terrorist who killed 51 people at two mosques in Christchurch last year.
Brenton Tarrant pleaded guilty to 51 charges of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and one charge of committing a terrorist act.
The Australian faces life imprisonment, a sentence never before imposed in New Zealand.
*) Trump approves plasma treatment for Covid-19
US President Donald Trump has authorised the FDA to use blood plasma from recovered coronavirus patients to treat the infected.
Trump says plasma treatment is safe and decreases the rate of mortality.
While experts believe the treatment could work, they say it needs further study to assess its efficacy.
*) Israeli PM accepts deal to extend budget deadline
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted a deal to postpone the national budget deadline by 100 days.
Netanyahu and his coalition partner, Benny Gantz, had faced a Monday midnight deadline to reach a compromise.
The deal avoids sending the country to its fourth election in less than two years.
*) Tropical Storm Laura pummels Caribbean At least 10 people have been killed after Tropical Storm Laura ripped across the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.
Laura has hit the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Cuba.
The storm is forecast to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane as it moves towards the US.
And finally,
*) Bayern Munich crowned Europe’s champions
Bayern Munich have been crowned champions of European football.
The German side beat French outfit PSG 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League final.
This is the sixth time Bayern have claimed the coveted title, with midfielder Kingsley Coman scoring the winner.
*) Joe Biden accepts Democratic presidential nomination
Joe Biden promises to end the "darkness" of Donald Trump's presidency, officially accepting the Democratic presidential nomination.
In his speech, Biden said the country needs a leader who will unite Democrats, Republicans, and everyone in between.
He dug into Trump's failure to protect Americans, their businesses and healthcare during the coronavirus pandemic.
*) Steve Bannon pleads not guilty in border wall scheme
US President Donald Trump's former advisor Steve Bannon has pleaded not guilty to charges of fraud and is out on $5 million bail.
The charges are connected to an online campaign to raise millions of dollars to build the president’s signature wall on the US-Mexico border.
Bannon and three other men have been accused of conning hundreds of thousands of donors and keeping some money for themselves.
*) Manchester bomber's brother gets 55 years
The brother of the Manchester Arena suicide bomber has been sentenced to at least 55 years in prison.
Hashem Abedi helped his sibling, Salman, plan the attack that killed 22 people attending an Ariana Grande concert in 2017.
The attack was the deadliest in Britain since the 2005 London transport suicide bombings which killed 52 people.
*) Second wave of locusts threatens Kenya's crops
Huge swarms of locusts are destroying crops across East Africa this year, and it’s the worst such plague Kenya has seen in seven decades.
Food insecurity in the country has worsened, and the UN warns another wave is coming and it could be more destructive.
As a new generation of locusts begins to take flight, the livelihoods of millions in the region are at stake.
And finally,
*) Germany introduces new dog-walking law German dog owners are being forced by law to take their pets for a walk twice a day for an hour.
With almost one in five homes owning a hound, the new Animal Welfare Dog Regulation also sets limits on the transportation of farm animals in hot weather.
All 16 federal states will be responsible for enforcing the rule, but it remains unclear how.
*) Kamala Harris accepts historic vice president nomination
Kamala Harris has made history by accepting the Democratic nomination for vice president on the third night of the Democratic National Convention.
Harris is the first Black and South Asian woman to run on a presidential ticket.
Her running mate Joe Biden officially accepted the nomination for president on Tuesday.
*) Mali’s powerful protest leader quits politics
Mali's most influential protest leader has quit politics after Tuesday’s military coup.
Mahmoud Dicko’s spokesperson says he made the decision after a meeting with coup leaders, who promised fresh elections within a "reasonable" time.
Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita resigned and dissolved parliament this week after mutinying soldiers detained him at gunpoint.
*) Belarus leader warns of tough new steps against protesters Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has threatened to bring criminal charges against opposition leaders amid protests against his recent electoral win.
Lukashenko called on his security services to be tougher on demonstrators.
The EU has rejected the Belarus election results after opposition called for the bloc’s support.
*) North Korea to unveil new economic plans in rare meeting North Korea will hold a rare political congress in January where leader Kim Jong-un will announce a new five-year plan.
State media says the plan aims to develop the country’s dismal economy ravaged by US-led sanctions and the coronavirus pandemic.
The ruling Workers’ Party of Korea last convened for a full congress in 2016 after a gap of 36 years.
And finally,
*) California wildfires chase people from their homes
Dozens of wildfires continue burning across northern parts of California, forcing residents to evacuate.
Authorities declared a statewide emergency and deployed the National Guard to fight the flames.
California is in the middle of a historic heatwave, with Death Valley recording the highest temperature on Earth on Sunday.
*) Mali coup leaders promise fresh elections after Keita’s ouster
Soldiers in Mali who forced President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita’s resignation say they will enable a political transition towards fresh elections.
Calling themselves the National Committee for the Salvation of the People, the leaders of the military coup pledged to stabilise the country.
Keita resigned and dissolved his government hours after soldiers seized him from his home.
The coup follows months of anti-government protests against corruption and worsening security in the West African country.
*) Democrats officially nominate Biden to take on Trump
US Democrats have formally nominated Joe Biden as their presidential candidate, uniting behind his bid to defeat President Donald Trump.
The second night of the Democratic National Convention featured elder statesmen and rising stars from the party as well as prominent Republicans.
Biden has run for the presidency twice before and is now cemented as the embodiment of the Democrats’ desire to defeat Trump this fall.
*) Hezbollah member found guilty in Hariri killing
A UN-backed tribunal has found a Hezbollah member guilty of assassinating Lebanon’s former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in a truck blast in 2005.
Salim Ayyash was convicted and three others accused were acquitted in absentia.
The tribunal said there was no evidence that the Hezbollah leadership or Syrian government were involved in the assassination.
*) US Senate exposes Trump 2016 campaign links to Russia
A US Senate investigation has found that Russia launched an aggressive effort to interfere in the 2016 presidential election on behalf of Donald Trump.
The Senate report says associates of the Republican candidate were in touch with the Russians throughout the campaign, eager to benefit from their help.
It found that President Putin personally directed Russian efforts to hack accounts affiliated with Democrats and leak information damaging to Hillary Clinton.
And finally,
*) UN dedicates World Humanitarian Day to Covid-19 health workers
The UN is honouring frontline health workers who risk their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic and other emergencies.
It marked World Humanitarian Day by remembering 125 aid workers killed in 2019 and hundreds of others wounded or kidnapped.
The UN’s Secretary General says humanitarian workers are stretched like never before.
*) Democrats kick off national convention
The race for the White House has begun in earnest with the virtual Democratic National Convention’s launch.
The latest polls show Joe Biden leading over President Donald Trump by a narrow gap.
Biden will formally accept the Democratic nomination for president alongside his running mate Kamala Harris on Thursday.
*) Opposition protests continue in Belarus
The president of Belarus has been heckled by state workers at a factory in Minsk, as they called for him to resign.
Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled for 26 years, has refused to step down despite allegations that his re-election was rigged.
As daily opposition protests continue, Lukashenko says Belarus will not have new elections [quote] “until you kill me” [end quote].
*) Coronavirus spreading quickly in South Korea capital
South Korea warns of a looming crisis in its capital after reporting its biggest coronavirus outbreak in six months at a church.
More than 300 people, including a pastor, are infected, and dozens of others are apparently too afraid to get tested. The church has been shut down and sealed off as officials warn of a large-scale outbreak if the current situation is not contained.
*) Afghanistan talks stalled by prisoner release delay
The Afghan government says it will not release the last 400 Taliban prisoners until the insurgent group frees more captured soldiers.
The decision defies a ruling by the traditional council last week, further delaying intra-Afghan talks being sought by the US.
The talks were laid out in a peace deal signed between the US and Taliban in February, but have now been postponed indefinitely.
And finally,
*) US Death Valley looks to record for world’s highest temperature
California’s Death Valley may have seen the hottest day on Earth ever, with a temperature of 54.4 degrees Celsius.
Sunday’s reading is being verified by the US National Weather Service.
The last record was in 1913, when a weather station in the same area recorded 56.7 degrees Celsius.
Many such records have been set over the years but their validity has been disputed because of old equipment and inexperienced observers.
*) Opposition protesters host historic rally in Belarus
Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko is rejecting calls for fresh elections, despite massive rallies calling for him to end his 26-year rule.
Over 100,000 opposition protesters gathered for the country’s largest rally in capital Minsk.
Fearing he could lose power, Lukashenko has struck a deal with Russia for military assistance, should the need arise.
*) Gunmen attack hotel in Somalia’s Mogadishu
At least 15 people were killed after gunmen attacked a hotel in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu.
Security forces say militants stormed the Elite Hotel and took hostages after detonating a car bomb outside.
All the attackers were killed, before dozens of people who were trapped inside the hotel were rescued.
*) New Zealand postpones election after virus return
New Zealand’s general election is postponed to October 17 as the country deals with another Covid-19 outbreak.
The government has reimposed restrictions to curb the spread of the virus.
New Zealand has 78 active cases.
*) Anti-government protests draws thousands in Thailand
Anti-government protests in Thailand drew more than 10,000 people.
It was the largest political demonstration the country has seen in years as a pro-democracy movement gathers steam.
Student-led groups are holding daily protests across the country for the past month to denounce Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha and his military-aligned administration.
And finally,
*) Crews battle California wildfire amid heatwave
Massive wildfires continue to threaten homes in northern parts of California.
US officials triggered evacuation orders across three counties.
Firefighters from bordering Nevada have been called in to help contain the fires.
Netanyahu talks of 'history' but Palestinians call UAE-Israel deal 'betrayal' and world's oldest captive alligator celebrates 83 years in Serbia
*) Netanyahu calls Israel-UAE deal 'history' but Palestinians call it 'betrayal'
The United Arab Emirates has become the first Gulf Arab country to normalise relations with Israel.
US President Trump announced the accord, which drew strong criticism from Palestinians.
President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas both denounced the agreement.
*) Afghan authorities release 80 of final 400 Taliban prisoners
Kabul has begun releasing the final 400 Taliban prisoners, the last hurdle in launching long-delayed peace talks between the two warring sides.
Authorities said the release of a group of 80 inmates would "speed up efforts for direct talks and a lasting, nationwide ceasefire".
Both sides have said they are ready to begin talks in Qatar within days of the prisoners being freed.
*) UN experts demand Beirut explosion probe
UN human rights experts have demanded a swift, independent investigation into the catastrophic Beirut explosion.
They cited deep concern about irresponsibility and impunity in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Lebanon's parliament approved a two-week state of emergency in Beirut, giving the army greater powers to suppress protests.
*) Turkey warns against attack on Oruc Reis vessel
Turkey's President Erdogan said the only solution to the dispute over energy exploration in the eastern Mediterranean is dialogue.
Tensions between NATO allies and regional rivals Greece and Turkey over offshore oil and gas exploration rights have recently escalated.
His statements come after a Turkish research vessel began surveying for energy resources in contested areas of the eastern Mediterranean.
And finally,
*) World's oldest captive alligator celebrates 83 years in Serbia
Belgrade’s Muja, the world's oldest captive alligator, is celebrating his 83rd birthday.
While his exact hatch date is not known, the reptile arrived in Belgrade this week in August of 1937 from a German zoo.
He officially became the world's oldest captive alligator when Moscow zoo's famous Saturn, born in 1936, died in May.
Kamala Harris lashes out at Trump in debut appearance as Biden’s running mate, and Microsoft returns to phone business with folding Androids
This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Thursday, August 13th.
*) Joe Biden and Kamala Harris vow to rebuild America post-Trump
US Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden and running mate Kamala Harris have launched their White House bid, vowing to end the Trump presidency.
Harris, the first Black or Asian woman on a major ticket, ripped into President Trump’s handling of the pandemic, racial injustice and a ravaged economy.
Trump, who earlier called Harris a “fine choice” for vice president, now says he doesn't think she's right for the role.
*) Mauritius says almost all oil removed from damaged Japanese ship
Nearly all remaining oil from a damaged Japanese ship has been removed from off the coast of Mauritius.
The MV Wakashio began leaking oil after it struck a reef and went aground off the Indian Ocean island’s southeast coast on July 25.
The ship leaked about 1,000 tonnes of oil threatening the island nation's tourism sector that’s already hurt by the coronavirus pandemic.
*) US State Secretary defends Saudi arms sales after watchdog report
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said his department did everything by the book with regards to arms sales to Saudi Arabia in 2019.
His comments follow a US watchdog report that found the Saudi-UAE arms sale failed to assess threats to civilians.
The report concluded that Washington had skirted laws regulating arms sales to evade concerns about civilian casualties in the war in Yemen.
*) Police find 148 migrants in trucks in North Macedonia
North Macedonian police have discovered 148 migrants crammed into trucks in two separate operations in the country’s central and northern parts.
A majority of migrants, including 29 children, are from Pakistan while others are from Afghanistan, India, Egypt, Iran and Syria.
At least two suspected smugglers, men from North Macedonia, have been arrested.
And finally,
*) Microsoft returns to phone business with folding Android device
Microsoft has announced the Surface Duo, a new Android-powered dual-screen smartphone that will arrive in stores on September 10.
The Surface Duo, retailed at $1,399, folds close like a book and has two traditional screens separated by a hinge but synchronised to work together.
The tech giant has largely abandoned its historic practice of tying all of its products back to its Windows operating system.
*) Joe Biden picks Kamala Harris as running mate
Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has picked Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate.
Harris makes history as the first Black woman and first Asian-American to compete on a major US presidential ticket.
Biden’s choice acknowledges the vital role Black voters will play in his bid to defeat President Donald Trump.
*) Putin declares Russia is first to develop Covid-19 vaccine
Russia has become the first country to approve a coronavirus vaccine and declare it ready for use.
President Vladimir Putin said one of his daughters had been inoculated with the vaccine which Russia says went through all the necessary tests.
However, scientists have been sounding the alarm over rolling out the vaccine before final-phase trials.
*) At least three killed in violence in India over blasphemous post
At least three people were killed in India's Bengaluru after police opened fire on locals protesting a Facebook post they deemed blasphemous.
The relative of a lawmaker was arrested after he had posted a derogatory statement about Prophet Muhammed.
Police also arrested over 100 people for arson after they set fire to police cars as thousands protested outside the police station.
*) EU threatens sanctions on Belarus over elections
The EU is threatening Belarus with sanctions over Sunday’s presidential election that the bloc declared neither free nor fair.
Belarus went to the polls against a backdrop of large-scale opposition protests against autocratic president Alexander Lukashenko’s rule.
Street protests that broke out after the electoral commission declared Lukashenko the winner were met with a forceful crackdown.
And finally,
*) Google to turn smartphones into earthquake detectors
Google is adding an earthquake alert system to smartphones in California.
Android phones will receive alerts from an early-warning system that uses signals from hundreds of seismometers across the state.
People living elsewhere with smartphones powered by Google's Android are also invited to join the crowd-sourced network to detect temblors.
*) Lebanon’s government resigns after Beirut blast
Lebanon's government has resigned in the aftermath of public anger over the blast in Beirut that killed at least 200 people and injured some 6,000 others.
Announcing the resignation, Prime Minister Hassan Diab blamed previous governments for the catastrophe.
Since October, protestors have been demanding the departure of the entire leadership over corruption, incompetence and mismanagement.
*) One killed during second night of protests in Belarus
At least one man has been killed during protests in Belarus as demonstrators clashed with police for a second night after a disputed election.
Alexander Lukashenko claimed a sixth term in an election the opposition says was rigged.
Police used rubber bullets, stun grenades and tear gas as demonstrators fought back with stones and fireworks, building makeshift barricades in chaotic scenes of defiance.
*) Blast in Pakistan kills at least five people
At least five people have been killed and 10 others injured after a motorbike bomb attack on an anti-drug force near the Afghan border in Pakistan.
The attack in Balochistan comes more than a week after Pakistani troops clashed with labourers demanding the reopening of Pak-Afghan border crossing.
So far, no group has claimed responsibility.
*) Egypt holds Senate election
Egyptians head to the polls to elect members of a newly formed Senate, with results expected next Wednesday.
The public will elect two-thirds of the 300-strong Council of Senators, with the rest to be appointed by President Abdel Fattah el Sisi.
The senate election comes more than a year after the restoration of parliament’s lower chamber, which was dissolved in 2014.
And finally,
*) Alarming data from Brazil’s Amazon fires
Preliminary data indicates that deforestation in Brazil's Amazon could be at a 14-year high.
The Amazon lost 9,205 square kilometres of vegetation in the last 12 months, according to data from Brazil’s space agency.
The 34 percent increase in deforestation was largely due to a surge in fires during August and September last year.
*) Unprecedented public rage in Lebanon grows after blast
Two ministers in Lebanon have resigned over a deadly blast that has unleashed unprecedented public rage against the country's ruling class.
Protesters and police are in running battles in Beirut, the capital, for a second day.
It comes as world leaders pledged $300 million to rebuild the country, but only on the condition that the government commits itself to the political and economic reforms demanded by the people.
*) Hong Kong media tycoon arrested under controversial security law
Hong Kong authorities have arrested media tycoon Jimmy Lai and several other people, under Beijing’s controversial new national security law.
Lai, whose media company publishes local paper Apple Daily, is an outspoken critic of Beijing, which accused him of colluding with foreign forces.
Violators of the law face a jail term of up to 10 years, or life imprisonment for serious offences if found guilty.
*) Clashes after exit polls suggest win for Lukashenko
Protesters in Belarus clashed with the police after polls closed in Sunday's presidential election.
Protests erupted after exit polls suggested incumbent Alexander Lukashenko, who’s seeking a sixth term in office, won about 80 percent of votes.
His main opponent Svetlana Tikhanouskaya apparently only won six percent, in an election the opposition said was rigged.
*) Global Covid-19 cases surpass 20M mark
Over 20 million people around the world are now infected with Covid-19.
The pandemic has also killed almost 740,000 people. The US is the worst affected country followed by Brazil, India, Russia and South Africa.
And finally,
*) Saudi Arabia to begin human trials with Chinese Covid-19 vaccine
Saudi Arabia will soon begin human trials coupled with placebo treatment on 5,000 volunteers.
The vaccine is developed by China’s CanSino, which is also in talks with Russia, Brazil and Chile for more human trials.
Researchers who tested the vaccine recently say it appears to be safe and is inducing an immune response in most human subjects.
Police clash with anti-government protestors enraged by Beirut explosion and Mexico bans junk food to combat childhood obesity
*) Police clash with protestors enraged by explosion in Lebanon
Lebanese security forces fired tear gas to disperse dozens of anti-government demonstrators angered by the deadly blast in Beirut.
Already suffering from prolonged political and economic crises, public anger has been mounting after the explosion.
Aid from around the world also began flowing into the country following the blast that killed at least 149 people and injured 5,000 others.
*) Rajapaksa brothers win by landslide in Sri Lanka's election
Sri Lanka’s powerful Rajapaksa brothers secured a landslide victory in the country’s parliamentary elections.
The ruling group won a two-thirds majority enabling it to restore full executive powers to the presidency.
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa is likely to be sworn in the same position by his younger brother, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
*) India coronavirus cases pass two million
India’s official coronavirus case tally passed two million after a daily jump of more than 60,000 infections.
The South Asian giant becomes only the third country to reach the figure, after the United States and Brazil.
The rate of infection in the world’s second-most populous country also appears to be increasing.
*) Trump order targets Chinese internet giants TikTok, WeChat
US President Donald Trump ordered sweeping restrictions against Chinese-owned social media giants TikTok and WeChat.
The twin executive orders, which take effect in 45 days, bars anyone under US jurisdiction from doing business with the owners of TikTok or WeChat.
Trump's order cites a threat to "national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States."
And finally,
*) Southern Mexico state bans junk food sales to children
Legislators in southern Mexico have approved a ban on selling high-calorie snack food to children to combat high rates of childhood obesity.
The UN Children’s Fund considers childhood obesity to be a health emergency in Mexico, as children get 40 percent of their total caloric intake from junk food.
A Mexican government health survey found that 75 percent of Mexican children were overweight or obese in 2018.
*) Port officials under house arrest over deadly Lebanon blast
Several of Beirut’s port officials are under house arrest over Tuesday's deadly explosion.
At least 135 people are dead and thousands injured as Lebanon’s government vows to hold those responsible to account.
Initial investigative findings point to inaction and neglect around the storage of 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate in a Beirut port warehouse.
*) US to push UN to extend Iran arms embargo
The US says it will push the UN Security Council to extend an arms embargo on Iran.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will table the resolution at the council meeting next week, where it needs nine out 15 votes to make it happen.
The embargo is part of the nuclear deal that Iran signed in 2015, but the US pulled out of it three years later.
*) Brazil’s Covid-19 death toll nears 100,000
The death toll in Brazil from Covid-19 is fast approaching 100,000.
The country reported 1,437 deaths in its daily figures release, bringing the total to 97,256.
Brazil has over 2,8 million infections as it struggles to contain the world's worst outbreak after the US.
*) Japan marks 75th anniversary of Hiroshima atomic bombing
Hiroshima is marking the 75th anniversary of the world’s first atomic bombing.
On August 6, 1945, the US dropped a bomb nicknamed “Little Boy” above Japan’s Hiroshima, killing around 140,000 people.
It was followed by a second bomb three days later in Nagasaki, killing another 75,000 people.
And finally,
*) Instagram moves to fill void if TikTok gets banned in US
Instagram is moving quickly to fill the void if TikTok gets banned in the US.
It introduced its new Reels feature which works like TikTok, where users can create 15-second videos using effects and music.
The US is threatening to ban China-based TikTok and is giving the company until mid-September to work out a takeover deal with Microsoft or find another suitor.
*) Death toll expected to rise after explosion in Lebanon
Lebanese rescue workers are digging through rubble looking for survivors of a powerful explosion at a warehouse in the capital, Beirut.
At least 100 people were killed and nearly 4,000 injured, with officials expecting the death toll to rise.
Lebanon’s government has called for an urgent meeting to find out why 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate had been stored for six years at a port warehouse without any safety measures.
*) Kashmir under strict lockdown on anniversary of lost autonomy
Today marks one year since India revoked Kashmir's autonomy.
New Delhi imposed a strict two-day curfew ahead of the one-year anniversary, which locals have called to be marked as a #BlackDay.
Kashmir is technically split between India and Pakistan, but both countries claim the entirety of the Himalayan region as their own.
*) Anti-govt protests continue in Zimbabwe despite crackdown
Anti-government protests in Zimbabwe continue despite a crackdown.
Several high-profile people have been arrested during protests, including a member of the opposition party, an award-winning writer and several prominent journalists.
Tensions have been rising over Zimbabwe's 700 percent inflation rate, which has made it impossible for people to meet their basic needs.
*) Storm Isaias pounds US East Coast
Tropical Storm Isaias continues to bring high-speed winds and torrential rain as it moves up the US East Coast.
The storm has killed at least six people and knocked out power to hundreds of thousands people from New York to North Carolina.
Isaias slammed into the coast of North Carolina on Monday with hurricane strength, before being downgraded to a tropical storm.
And finally,
*) SpaceX completes test flight of Mars rocket prototype
SpaceX has successfully completed a test flight for its future Mars rocket ship.
The so-called hop test lasted for under a minute and claimed a distance of 150 metres before landing.
Previously, several prototypes had exploded during testing.
SpaceX founder Elon Musk said after the test that journeys to Mars were now looking real.
Daily News Brief for Tuesday, August 4:
*) WHO: There may never be a 'silver bullet' to defeat coronavirus
The World Health Organization is warning there is no "silver bullet" for the coronavirus crisis despite the rush to find a vaccine.
There are more than 18.4 million confirmed infections around the world and close to 700,000 people have died.
Renewed case surges and fresh clusters are being reported just as countries are starting to lift restrictions and rebuild their economies.
*) Israel strikes Syrian military bases in Quneitra
Israel's military says it has struck several military outposts of the Syrian regime forces near the capital Damascus.
This comes a day after Israel said it killed four men for planting explosives near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
Tensions have been high between Damascus and Tel Aviv after an apparent Israeli strike killed a Hezbollah fighter in Syria two weeks ago.
*) UN: North Korea 'probably' has miniature nuclear warheads
A confidential UN report says North Korea has “probably” developed nuclear devices to fit ballistic missiles.
The interim report was submitted to the UN Security Council North Korea sanctions committee by independent experts monitoring UN sanctions.
It said several countries believe North Korea's recent nuclear tests have likely helped it develop tiny miniaturised nuclear devices.
*) Pompeo aides subpoenaed over probe into Saudi arms deal
Four former aides to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have been subpoenaed for obstructing the probe into an $8 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia.
The aides are accused of resisting interviews with a US State Department Inspector General Steve Linick, who was investigating arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in 2019.
Democratic lawmakers say Pompeo wanted Linick out of the State Department.
And finally,
*) Google unveils cheaper Pixel smartphone as virus curbs spending
Google has unveiled a new, more affordable Pixel 4a smartphone
At a starting price of $349, the Pixel 4a is about half that of the flagship model and a $50 discount from a cheaper version released last year.
Google also said it would launch models tailored for super-fast 5G networks later this year.
At least 20 dead in Daesh-claimed assault on Afghan prison and NASA astronauts return home in first splashdown in 45 years
*) Deadly jailbreak in Afghanistan as Daesh militants battle Afghan forces
An attack on a prison in Afghanistan holding hundreds of Daesh members raged on Monday after at least 21 people died in fighting overnight.
More than 75 prisoners escaped as Afghan security forces battled Daesh militants in Jalalabad, officials said.
The attack began late on Sunday when a suspected Daesh suicide bomber slammed his explosive-laden vehicle into the prison entrance.
*) Global virus cases top 18 million as curfews come back
New Covid-19 cases continue to surge as officials across the world consider stricter measures to stymie the spread of the virus.
Covid-19 has claimed more than 687,000 lives and infected more than 18 million people since it first emerged in China late last year.
As some countries struggle to rein in their first outbreak, others where the disease abated are now trying to avert a second wave.
*) New arms shipments arrive for Haftar forces: Libyan army
Russian-made cargo planes have delivered new military shipments to warlord Khalifa Haftar’s militia, according to the Libyan Army.
The cargo planes made seven flights between Sirte, Jufra airbase and Benghazi, a military spokesman for Libya’s UN-backed government said.
The general said Russian aircraft flew in ammunition and mercenaries to support Haftar's militia.
*) Microsoft says it will keep exploring TikTok purchase
Microsoft has decided to continue talks with TikTok to purchase the Chinese video app's US operations.
Microsoft said it took the decision after discussions with US President Donald Trump.
Trump has threatened to ban TikTok in the United States over security concerns.
And finally,
*) NASA astronauts return home in 1st splashdown in 45 years
America's first crewed spaceship to fly to the International Space Station in nearly a decade has returned safely to Earth.
It was the first splashdown by US astronauts in 45 years, with the first commercially built and operated spacecraft to carry people to and from orbit.
The mission, carried out jointly by SpaceX and NASA, clears the way for another SpaceX crew launch as early as next month and possible tourist flights next year.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, July 31st:
*) US President Trump floats delayed elections
President Trump has drawn a rare GOP rebuke for floating a delay in US presidential elections over Covid-19 and unsubstantiated voter fraud claims.
Trump’s Republican party abruptly dismissed the idea, saying polls “should go forward” as planned.
The date of the US election is enshrined in federal law and would require an act of Congress to change.
*) At least 18 killed in Afghanistan bombing
At least 18 people, including Afghan security forces personnel, have been killed in a suspected car-bombing in eastern Afghanistan.
The attack happened on Thursday, hours before a three-day ceasefire was to begin in the country for the Muslim festival of Eid al Adha.
Violence has continued to plague Afghanistan even after US-brokered peace talks between the Taliban and a government-mandated committee.
*) Protests continue in Israel
Demonstrations outside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's official residence are continuing, calling for him to step down.
The protests have been going on for the past few weeks, sparked by what critics see as the government's failure to handle the coronavirus crisis.
Netanyahu has also come under growing criticism for staying in office while on trial for corruption.
*) Belarus accuses Russians, president’s critics of plotting unrest
Belarus authorities say they've arrested 33 Russian nationals who they accuse of being mercenaries to disrupt next month’s presidential election.
But Russia says the group of men who were detained outside of the capital Minsk are wrongly accused and are demanding an explanation.
President Lukashenko is seeking a sixth term and has accused Russia of trying to force Belarus to abandon its post-Soviet independence.
And finally,
*) Mars rover runs into technical trouble after blast off
NASA's latest rover Perseverance has launched for Mars, blasting off from Florida on schedule.
Its mission is to look for evidence of ancient life on the Red Planet.
The spaceship appeared to run into technical difficulties after the launch, NASA confirmed, adding it was running on safe mode for the time being.
*) Tech titans under fire in Congress over monopoly allegations
Tech giants have “too much power” and need to be regulated.
That was the conclusion of Washington lawmakers after they grilled the CEOs of Google, Facebook, Amazon and Apple virtually at a congressional hearing.
Despite the committee’s concerns over privacy, competition and the content allowed online, there were few new revelations or major confrontations.
*) China's Sinopharm to test potential Covid-19 vaccine in Brazil
Chinese drug company Sinopharm and Brazil’s Parana state have agreed to launch the fourth major Covid-19 vaccine trial in the country.
They will seek regulatory approval in the next two weeks, the Brazilian partners said.
Sinopharm's candidate vaccine is already being tested in the United Arab Emirates with 15,000 volunteers.
*) US to withdraw around 12,000 troops from Germany
The US will be withdrawing nearly 12,000 troops from Germany, with plans to reposition almost half of them in Europe.
US President Trump accused Germany of taking advantage of the US and being “delinquent” in paying the two percent NATO fee.
Pentagon officials say the plan is costly and will take years to execute while US lawmakers fear it will weaken the military against Russia.
*) US federal forces to start conditional pullout from Portland
Staying with US troop pullouts, the Trump administration has agreed to withdraw federal forces from the US city of Portland.
Oregon Governor Kate Brown said the forces would begin their phased pullout on Thursday.
But a Homeland Security official indicated that officers will withdraw only if local police can ensure the federal courthouse will be secured.
Trump's administration earlier this month sent the federal tactical teams to intervene after weeks of protests against racism and police brutality.
And finally,
*) Scientists solve mystery of the origin of Stonehenge megaliths
Scientists have solved a mystery about Stonehenge, determining the place of origin of many of the megaliths that make up the monument in Wiltshire, England.
Geochemical testing indicates the sandstone megaliths share a common origin about 25 km away at a site called West Wood.
This is thanks to a core sample that had been kept in the United States for decades.
*) US sees biggest daily rise in Covid-19 deaths since May
We start in the US, where the coronavirus has claimed more than 1,300 lives in the past 24 hours, the country’s biggest rise in Covid-19 deaths since May.
Six US states, including Arkansas, California, Florida, Montana, Oregon and Texas, each reported an increase in the number of fatalities.
Texas passed the 400,000 mark, while California health officials said the Latin American community accounted for more than half of its cases.
*) Select group of Muslims begins Hajj pilgrimage
A select group of Muslim pilgrims has begun the annual Hajj after Saudi authorities limited the number of worshippers attending the annual event in an attempt to prevent a Covid-19 outbreak.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is usually one of the world's largest religious gatherings.
But this year, only up to 10,000 people already residing in the kingdom will take part, a tiny fraction of the 2.5 million pilgrims that attended last year.
*) Barr defends Trump's crackdown on Portland protesters
US Attorney General Bill Barr has strongly defended sending federal law enforcement officers to quell protests in Portland.
He rejected allegations that he was trying to boost President Donald Trump's re-election prospects.
At a hearing of the House Judiciary Committee, Barr rejected Democrats' claims that the Trump administration was stifling peaceful protests against racism.
*) Turkey ready to address F-35 issue with US
Turkey says it is ready to address US F-35 concerns after Washington suspended Ankara from the joint fighter jet programme.
Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said that the US should review its suspension decision, which was made after Turkey’s procurement of Russia's S-400s.
Turkey bought Russian missile defence systems after talks with the US on the patriot defence system broke down after the Obama administration refused to sell them to Turkey.
And finally
*) The Emmy nominations are out
HBO's dystopian superhero drama 'Watchmen' and the 1960s comedy 'The Marvelous Mrs Maisel' lead the Emmy nominations list.
'Watchmen' scored 26 nods, including best limited series, while Amazon Studio's 'The Marvelous Mrs Maisel' got 20.
Netflix led all platforms with a record 160 nominations for shows. Winners will be announced on September 20 during a ceremony.
*) Former Malaysian PM Najib covicted of all 7 charges over 1MDB
Former Prime Minister Najib Razak has been found guilty in his first corruption trial over the multibillion-dollar looting of the 1MDB investment fund.
The court’s ruling came five months after a new government took power with Najib's Malay party, the biggest bloc in the alliance.
His party's shocking election ouster in 2018 was driven by public anger over the 1MDB scandal.
- ) Hezbollah: Israel's claims of border clashes 'completely false'
Lebanon's Hezbollah group has denied involvement in combat at the Lebanon-Israel border.
The denial follows Israel’s claim that it had repelled an attempt by the group to penetrate its territory.
Hezbollah said Israeli claims "are not true at all, and an attempt to invent illusive victories."
*) New Zealand suspends extradition treaty with Hong Kong
New Zealand has suspended its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over China's passing of a sweeping new national security law for the semi-autonomous territory.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters said the new law went against commitments China had made to the international community.
New Zealand is the final member of the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance to take such action after the US, Australia, Canada and the UK.
*) Pfizer, BioNTech begin late-stage study of vaccine candidate
German biotech BioNTech and US drugmaker Pfizer have said they would begin a pivotal global study to evaluate their lead Covid-19 vaccine candidate.
If the study is successful, the companies could submit the vaccine for regulatory approval as early as October.
This would put the companies on track to supply up to 100 million doses by the end of 2020 and 1.3 billion by the end of 2021.
And finally
*) Action-thriller 'Tenet' to debut internationally from August 26
Hollywood director Christopher Nolan's thriller 'Tenet' will debut in cinemas in over 70 countries starting August 26.
The movie was earlier delayed several times by the coronavirus pandemic.
According to Warner Bros. the film will open in select US cities on Labour Day on September 7.
Daily News Brief for Monday, July 27th:
*) US closes consulate in Chengdu
We begin with the ongoing political spat between the US and China.
Washington has closed its consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu.
The retaliatory move follows the US-ordered closure of China’s consulate in Houston, Texas.
The two world powers have been sparring over a range of issues, including trade, technology, security and human rights.
- ) Australian regulators sue Google
Australia's consumer watchdog is suing Google, alleging that it broke consumer laws.
Australia's competition regulator says Google did not explicitly get consent or properly inform consumers about personal information in Google accounts being used for targeted advertising.
The move comes as US and European lawmakers step up their focus on how tech companies treat user data due to privacy concerns.
*) Bomb blast in Syria’s northeast
A deadly bombing in northeastern Syria has left five civilians dead and at least 20 others wounded.
Turkey’s defence ministry said the YPG terror group was responsible for detonating the explosive in a busy marketplace in Ras al Ayn.
The city was largely cleared of the group last year during the Turkish-led Operation Peace Spring.
*) Hurricane Hanna batters Texas coast
Hurricane Hanna has left a trail of destruction along the Texas coast and continues to threaten the area with torrential rains.
It downed power lines, overturned tractor-trailers and even toppled part of the US-Mexico border wall.
The storm had come ashore on Saturday afternoon as a Category 1 hurricane.
And finally
*) Juventus win ninth Serie A title
Juventus has claimed its ninth Serie A title in a row, following a 2-0 win over Sampdoria.
Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring deep into the first half stoppage time with his 31st league goal of the season
Federico Bernardeschi added the second as Juve moved seven points clear of Inter Milan.
*) China orders closure of US consulate
We begin with the political rift between the US and China.
Beijing has ordered the closure of the US consulate in Chengdu in a growing spat.
It comes a day after the US ordered the closure of China’s consulate in Houston, Texas.
Tensions between the two nuclear powers have been soaring amid an array of conflicts ranging from trade to accusations of spying.
- ) Trump cancels Florida rally
US President Donald Trump has announced the cancellation of the Republican party’s national convention in Florida.
It comes after the number of Covid-19 cases in the US crossed four million.
The convention was relocated after North Carolina enforced strict social distancing restrictions.
*) Thousands of Israelis protest against Netanyahu
At least 50 people have been arrested in Israel’s West Jerusalem.
Thousands of people gathered to protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his corruption cases and handling of the pandemic.
Police used water cannons to try and break up the demonstrations.
*) Hagia Sophia opens for Friday prayers
In Turkey, President Recip Tayyip Erdogan has formally opened the Hagia Sophia ahead of Friday prayers in Istanbul.
He unveiled a nameplate on Thursday that reads “Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque”.
Prayers will be held inside the building for the first time in 86 years since it was converted into a museum.
And finally
*) Costa Rica reopens borders
Costa Rica is reopening its borders and welcoming tourists from the EU, the UK and Canada starting next week.
It will be operating five flights a week after four months of denying any international visitors.
Americans are still banned from entering the country.
*) Washington orders Chinese consulate closure
We begin in the US, where Washington has ordered the closure of the Chinese consulate in Texas within 72 hours.
The State Department said it was to protect US intellectual property but China has condemned the move, calling it political provocation, and is threatening retaliation.
The US and China are sparring over issues ranging from trade to the pandemic to China's policies in Hong Kong and the treatment of Uighurs.
- ) Trump announces surge of federal agents to combat crime
US President Donald Trump has allowed federal law enforcement agents to be dispatched to cities facing challenges with violent crime.
Originally launched in Kansas City, Operation Legend will expand to include Chicago and Albuquerque.
The Trump administration is already facing major criticism and multiple lawsuits over the recent show of federal force in Portland, Oregon.
*) Several killed in Afghanistan air strikes
Air strikes by security forces in eastern Afghanistan have killed at least 45 people, including civilians and Taliban members.
The governor of Adraskan district said at least eight civilians were among the dead.
The botched air strikes have prompted Afghanistan's defence ministry to launch an investigation into the reports of civilian casualties.
*) Turkey, Russia agree to push for Libya truce
Turkish and Russian delegations have met in Ankara, where they agreed to consider creating a joint working group to develop a lasting ceasefire in Libya.
Both sides agreed that a Libyan-led and UN-facilitated political process will help resolve the conflict instead of military action.
Ankara and Moscow also called on stakeholders to take measures ensuring safe humanitarian access and delivery of urgent assistance to those in need.
And finally
*) Liverpool lift EPL cup
Liverpool lifted the Premier League trophy for the first time in 30 years after last month’s thrilling 5-3 win over Chelsea.
Crowds lit flares and cheered as fireworks were set off at the stadium despite a police dispersal order over fears of the spread of coronavirus.
Liverpool have dominated the league this season, bagging 96 points in 37 league matches.
*) Global Covid-19 cases surpass 15 million
Global coronavirus cases have passed the 15 million mark and killed over 616,000, according to tracking websites.
Over 9 million people have recovered from the virus as global efforts pick up pace to develop a vaccine to treat Covid-19 patients.
The five countries with the highest number of infections are the US, Brazil, India, Russia and South Africa.
- ) UK government failed to probe Russian 'meddling'
The British government largely turned a blind eye to possible Russian interference in the 2016 Brexit referendum, a parliamentary report says.
The report set out that the government did not know if Russia intervened in the votes out of a lack of curiosity.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab rejected the claims, saying Russia is a top national security priority.
*) US accuses Chinese hackers in targeting of Covid-19 research
The US Justice Department has charged two Chinese nationals who allegedly hacked firms working on a Covid-19 vaccine.
Hackers are accused of targeting firms in California, Maryland and Washington and stealing millions of dollars worth of trade secrets.
The charges are the latest in a series of aggressive Trump administration actions targeting China.
*) Sudan’s Bashir has his day in court
Sudan's former president Omar al Bashir’s trial over a military coup that brought him to power more than three decades ago has begun.
Bashir and 27 other men face the death penalty if convicted of plotting the 1989 coup that ousted a democratically elected government.
Bashir was ousted amid a popular pro-democracy uprising last year after several months of unprecedented, youth-led street demonstrations.
And finally
*) Indian cricket board seeks IPL in UAE
Organisers of India's Premier League are looking to hold the cricket tournament in the UAE.
Seized upon the postponement of the Twenty20 World Cup, the organisers are seeking government permission to stage the event from September.
The IPL is the Indian cricket board's main revenue earner and stands to lose more than $500 million if this year's tournament does not go ahead.
*) EU leaders agree on budget and virus recovery package
After four days of talks, EU leaders have agreed on a financial aid package of more than 850 billion dollars with a budget of two point one trillion dollars.
The discussions took an intense turn as leaders accused each other of deliberately hampering the talks.
The coronavirus has killed around 135,000 EU citizens, plunging its economy into an estimated contraction of 8.3 percent this year.
- ) Egypt’s parliament to send troops to Libya
Egypt’s parliament has voted in favour of sending troops to Libya.
Egypt supports warlord Khalifa Haftar whose illegal militia is facing UN-backed government forces that are set to retake the city of Sirte.
On Saturday, Italy, France and Germany threatened sanctions on any foreign actors who violate the arms embargo on Libya.
*) Oxford Covid-19 vaccine trial shows potential
The race for a coronavirus vaccine has ratcheted up after the first human trial of a vaccine showed some promise.
The vaccine from AstraZeneca and University of Oxford prompted no serious side effects and triggered antibody and T-cell immune responses.
At least 150 possible vaccines are in various stages of development, with US’ Pfizer and China's CanSino Biologics reporting positive developments.
*) Trump threatens to replicate federal response in Portland
US President Trump says he wants to replicate a heavy-handed federal crackdown on protests against racial inequality in Democrat-run cities.
Trump’s statement comes amid growing alarm over the treatment of protesters in Portland, Oregon.
Camera footage appears to show unmarked officers seizing demonstrators from city streets seemingly at random and whisking them away in vehicles.
And finally
*) Polar bears may be extinct by 2100
Climate crisis is starving polar bears into extinction and they could all but disappear within the span of a human lifetime, research says.
Polar bears in 12 of 13 sub-populations analysed in the research will have been decimated within 80 years by the pace of change in the Arctic.
This scenario foresees Earth's average surface temperature rising 3.3 degrees Celsius above the preindustrial benchmark.
*) EU leaders bicker over virus recovery package
EU leaders have failed so far to reach an agreement on the details of a 850-billion dollar coronavirus recovery fund.
Richer states want strict conditions attached to the funds but this has been rejected by Italy and Spain, both hard-hit by Covid-19.
Sunday's session ended on early Monday morning, and will resume later in the afternoon.
- ) Syria holds parliamentary elections
Syrians have begun voting to elect a new parliament, as the country grapples with international sanctions and war.
Without any real opposition, regime leader Bashar al Assad's Baath ruling party and its allies are expected to take most of parliament's 250 seats.
These are the third such polls since the war began nine years ago and come amid a crippling economic crisis.
*) South Africa virus death toll tops 5,000
South Africa's death toll from the coronavirus has passed the 5,000 mark with more than 364,000 confirmed cases.
The country’s health minister has appealed to South Africans to adhere to health regulations to curb the spread of the virus.
South Africa is now the fifth worst-affected country globally with its peak expected over the next few weeks.
*) Protests in India over rape, murder of teenage girl
Protests in eastern India have erupted over the alleged gang rape and murder of a teenage girl.
The girl went missing on Saturday and was found dead on Sunday, less than a kilometre from her home in West Bengal, local media says.
Protesters have blocked a highway and set police vehicles and public buses on fire.
And finally
*) UAE probe heads for Mars
A UAE spacecraft blasted off from Japan on a journey to Mars on the Arab world’s first interplanetary mission.
The unmanned probe named Al Amal – Arabic for Hope – will help provide a picture of the Mars’ atmosphere throughout the Martian year.
Amal is set to reach Mars in February 2021, the year the UAE celebrates 50 years since the country’s formation.
*) UK, US and Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine trials
Britain, the United States and Canada have accused Russia-linked hackers of targeting labs in their countries conducting Covid-19 vaccine research.
The three governments said a hacking group called APT29 was "almost certainly" linked to Russian intelligence.
London also said that "Russian actors" sought to disrupt UK’s general election in 2019 but Russia has rejected the claim as "groundless".
- ) Fresh clashes at Azerbaijan-Armenia border after brief respite
Azerbaijan and Armenia have accused each other of shelling military positions and villages after a brief ceasefire in border clashes.
The Azeri defence ministry said one of its soldiers died, while Armenia's defence ministry said a civilian was wounded in an Azeri drone strike.
The clashes that began on Sunday have so far killed 16 soldiers from both sides and one civilian.
*) Libya denounces Egyptian president's threats
Libya has slammed the Egyptian president over his comments suggesting Cairo could arm Libyan tribes against the UN-backed government.
Libya’s foreign ministry accused Sisi of once again blatantly interfering in Libyan affairs.
Since April 2019, attacks by warlord Khalifa Haftar’s militias in capital Tripoli and other parts of Libya have killed over 1,000 people, including civilians.
*) Judges rule Shamima Begum can return to UK for citizenship case
British judges have allowed UK-born Shamima Begum to return to the country to challenge the government's removal of her citizenship.
Begum was one of three east London schoolgirls who travelled to Syria in 2015. She then married a Daesh militant.
Britain stripped her of citizenship on security grounds as its domestic intelligence agency considered her a security threat.
And finally
*) Real Madrid clinch 34th La Liga title with game to spare
Real Madrid have clinched a record-extending 34th La Liga title with one game to spare by beating Villarreal 2-1 at home.
Real have 86 points after 37 games, seven more than deposed champions Barcelona who were beaten 2-1 at home to Osasuna.
Karim Benzema scored twice to give Madrid its 10th consecutive league victory.
*) Twitter accounts of Apple, Musk, Gates, others hit in major hack
The official Twitter accounts of Joe Biden, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Apple and many other influential US figures and entities were hijacked in a Bitcoin scam.
The fake tweets offered to send $2,000 for every $1,000 sent to an anonymous Bitcoin address.
Twitter responded by disabling the ability to tweet from validated and verified accounts for about two hours while working on fixing the issue.
*) Pompeo downplays possibility of summit with North Korea
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has downplayed the possibility of another summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.
Pompeo said Trump will only engage if there are real prospects of progress.
Repeated statements from Pyongyang have said Trump will no longer get high-profile meetings that he could pass off as foreign policy achievements.
*) Brazil's Bolsonaro tests positive for coronavirus, again
Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro has announced he still has the coronavirus after undergoing a new test the day before.
Bolsonaro said he is not experiencing symptoms and that his use of the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine was working.
The far-right president, whose anti-mask and anti-lockdown statements have caused much of the public to ignore coronavirus measures, first tested positive a week ago.
Pro-EU party claims win in North Macedonia polls
North Macedonia's pro-EU Social Democrats have declared victory after official election results showed a razor-thin win over nationalist rivals.
Wednesday’s vote was the first parliamentary election since the Social Democrats added "North" to the Balkan country's name last year.
Lacking an outright majority with only some 35.8 percent of the vote, the Social Democrats face tough coalition talks to form a government.
And finally
*) Banksy coronavirus graffiti removed from London tube The London Underground has removed British street artist Banksy's latest work on coronavirus. Banksy posted a video on social media in which he was seen in a boiler suit spray-painting stencils of his iconic rats inside a train, with one sneezing blue droplets. Transport for London said the work was removed due to the company's strict anti-graffiti policy but appreciated the spirit of Banksy’s message.
Turkey marks fourth anniversary of failed July 15 coup and … can dogs smell coronavirus?
*) Turkey commemorates July 15th coup anniversary
Turkey is marking the fourth anniversary of the deadly July 15 coup attempt by the Fetullah Gulen Terror Organisation.
At least 251 Turkish people were killed and close to 2,200 others were injured as unarmed citizens poured into the streets againts the putsch.
Ceremonies marking the resistance are expected to take place across the country with speeches by officials, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
*) Trump signs bill, order rebuking China
China has promised a “firm response” to US President Donald Trump's order that ended Hong Kong's special status.
While signing the order earlier, Trump made it clear his step was in retaliation to Beijing’s imposition of a new security law on the former British colony.
Trump’s administration has recently stepped up pressure on China on multiple fronts, including their response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
*) Death toll ticks up in Azerbaijan, Armenia border clashes
At least 11 troops and a civilian were killed in a third day of fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia, taking the three-day toll of clashes to 16.
Both countries blame each other for the worst outbreak of hostilities that began on Sunday on the border between the two South Caucasus nations.
Azerbaijan said it has lost 11 servicemen and one civilian in three days of fighting and Armenia said four of its troops were killed on Tuesday.
*) Covid-19 restrictions return in Hong Kong and India, eased in China
Lockdowns are being reimposed in parts of India as the country’s coronavirus caseload approaches one million.
India trails only the US, which has more than 3.5 million infections, and Brazil, which has 1.9 million cases.
Meanwhile, China, where the virus first originated in 2019, is further easing restrictions on domestic tourism after reporting no new local cases in nine days. And finally
*) Chile trains dogs hoping they can sniff out Covid-19 symptom
Police in Chile have been training dogs to detect people who might be infected with the novel coronavirus by sniffing their sweat.
Fernando Mardones, a Universidad Catolica professor of veterinary epidemiology, says there is evidence dogs can detect tuberculosis, parasite infections and even the early stages of cancer.
France and the UK run similar programmes that employ canines as bio detectors.
WHO boss slams 'mixed messages' from leaders on coronavirus and Modern slaves? UK study finds there are thousands
*) WHO boss slams 'mixed messages' from leaders on coronavirus
The World Health Organization's chief has slammed government leaders for eroding public trust by sending mixed messages on the coronavirus.
Without calling out specific politicians, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, “too many countries are headed in the wrong direction".
However, he acknowledged complete lockdowns were difficult for many governments, given the economic and social consequences.
*) Azerbaijan and Armenia blame each other for border clashes
At least four Azeri soldiers were killed and several others including Armenian soldiers were wounded in clashes at the Azerbaijan and Armenia border.
The fighting occurred around Tavush region in northeast Armenia with each side accusing the other of encroaching on territory.
The clashes were far from Nagorno-Karabakh, a breakaway territory which has been the cause of conflict between the two former Soviet republics for decades.
*) UN: Air strike in northwest Yemen kills 7 children, 2 women
An air strike in northwest Yemen has killed seven children and two women in Hajjah province, the United Nations reported.
Houthi rebels accused the Saudi-led coalition of striking civilian targets.
The Saudi-led coalition said it would investigate the strike “to consider the possibility of an accident.”
*) US accusations on South China Sea unjustified – China
China has described a US rejection of its maritime claims in the South China Sea as completely unjustified.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s statement deliberately distorted facts.
Pompeo earlier said the US considers all Chinese maritime claims outside its internationally recognised waters to be illegitimate.
And finally
*) UK has 100,000 modern slaves but most go undetected
Britain is home to at least 100,000 modern slaves, 10 times more than the official estimate, according to a new study.
Justice and Care, an anti-slavery charity, and The Centre for Social Justice say the real number could be even higher.
The new study warns that the coronavirus pandemic will likely push more people into forced labour at car washes and brothels.
*) UAE behind oil blockade as Libya halts oil exports again
Libya’s National Oil Corp has said that the United Arab Emirates has instructed its illegal militias to disrupt oil output and exports.
The NOC said Libya’s oil exports had resumed on July 10 but Haftar’s militias reimposed a blockade on exports on July 11 and stepped back from talks.
The allegations follow a statement by warlord Khalifa Haftar, saying output would continue to be interrupted if certain conditions were not met.
*) Millions of children affected by school closures
The British-based charity Save the Children has warned that the measures to curb Covid-19 have caused an "unprecedented education emergency."
It said some 10 million children who were shut out of schools face the risk of never going back to class.
The charity added that some 1.6 billion young people, or around 90 percent of the world's entire student population, couldn’t go to school and university in April.
*) Over 600,000 Hong Kongers cast 'protest' vote against new security laws
Hundreds of thousands of people have voted in an unofficial primary election in Hong Kong.
The polls will decide the strongest anti-Beijing candidates to contest Legislative Council elections in September.
Many people see the level of participation as a guide to popular opinion in the city of 7.5 million people.
*) Poland's Duda ahead by tiny margin in presidential run-off
Poland’s incumbent Andrzej Duda is leading by a small margin against his rival Rafal Trzaskowski in the presidential election, an exit poll showed.
Duda, a right-wing populist and close ally of US President Donald Trump, stands at 50.4 percent in the poll by Ipsos published after Sunday’s polls.
But the poll has a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points. Official results are expected today.
And finally
*) West Indies beat England as international cricket returns
International cricket has returned from the Covid-19 lockdown with West Indies beating England by four wickets in the first Test at Southampton.
Jermaine Blackwood made a superb 95, giving West Indies 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The second and third tests will be played in Manchester without fans present in the stadium due to Covid-19 restrictions.
*) US Covid-19 cases rise by record 60,565 in single day
The United States has reported at least 60,565 new Covid-19 cases, a new daily record increase.
For the third day in a row, US deaths climbed by more than 800, the highest level seen since early June. The pandemic has infected more than 12 million people across the world and killed over 557,000. *) US sanctions Chinese officials over Uighur rights The US has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials in the first major course of action to stop abuses against the Uighur Muslim minority.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the sanctions will target several senior government officials. The move is likely to further add to tensions between Washington and Beijing. *) Singaporeans go to polls amid virus pandemic Singaporeans wearing masks and gloves are set to cast their ballots for a general election under the cloud of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Voters could be seen standing far apart due to virus fears at polling stations, which resulted in long queues.
Covid-19 has pushed Singapore’s economy towards its worst-ever recession, making saving jobs the focus of the election.
*) North Korean leader’s sister says Kim-Trump summit unlikely The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has said she doesn’t expect her brother to meet US President Donald Trump this year. Kim Yo-jong said there’s no reason for the North to give Trump access to high-profile meetings when it’s not being substantially rewarded in return. She is seen as her brother’s closest confidant and has been recently confirmed his top official for inter-Korean affairs. And finally
*) Johnny Depp denies beating actor Amber Heard
Johnny Depp has denied all claims of domestic violence brought forth by actor Amber Heard, his ex-wife.
The “Pirates of the Caribbean” star is suing British tabloid The Sun for a 2018 article that claimed he was a “wife-beater”.
Both Depp and Heard were in court as lawyers for The Sun questioned him about allegations of violence during the couple’s time together.
Russia's bid to reduce cross-border aid to Syria fails at UN and Facebook busts networks tied to Bolsonaro staff and a Trump ally
*) Russia's bid to reduce cross-border aid to Syria fails at UN
Moscow's attempt to halve humanitarian aid deliveries from Turkey to Syria was voted down at the UN Security Council.
In the absence of a veto, Russia needed nine votes to get its resolution passed but received only four votes. Seven countries voted against it and four abstained.
Russia and China earlier vetoed a resolution to extend cross-border aid into Syria from Turkey.
*) Foreign interference in Libya reaching 'unprecedented levels' UN chief Antonio Guterres has warned the conflict in Libya has entered a new phase "with foreign interference reaching unprecedented levels".
Guterres added the United Nations would continue working with the parties to reach a ceasefire and resume a political process.
The oil-producing country descended into chaos after the NATO-backed overthrow of leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.
*) Virus cases jump in worst-hit trio US, Brazil and India
The US, Brazil and India account for more than 60 percent of new cases, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.
The three worst-affected countries reported 59,000, 45,000 and 25,000 new cases of Covid-19, respectively, in the last 24 hours.
Some 12.1 million people have contracted Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic, with more than 4.5 million currently infected.
*) Heavy rain devastate Japan
Japanese emergency services and troops are scrambling to reach thousands of homes cut off by catastrophic flooding and landslides.
Torrential rains in the country have claimed dozens of lives and caused widespread damage during the past week.
Japan is in the middle of its annual rain season which often results in damaging floods and landslides. And finally
*) Facebook busts networks tied to Bolsonaro staff, Trump ally
Facebook has suspended fake accounts linked to Trump ally Roger Stone, Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro and networks in Canada, Ecuador and Ukraine.
The accounts had violated Facebook rules against divisive political messages online and deceptive activity.
There was no evidence the politicians themselves had operated the accounts.
Russia and China veto UN extension of cross-border aid into Syria's northwest and Beatles' drummer Ringo Starr marks 80th birthday at online gig
*) Russia and China veto extension of cross-border aid into Syria's northwest
Russia and China cast vetoes to block the UN Security Council from extending its approval of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey for a year.
Russia, a close ally of the Syrian regime, circulated a draft resolution to authorise the delivery of aid through a single crossing point from Turkey for six months.
Tuesday’s vote was the 15th time that Russia has used its veto since the start of the conflict in Syria in 2011, and the ninth for China.
*) Demonstrators storm Serbian parliament in protest over weekend lockdown
A group of opposition supporters stormed the Serbian parliament building in Belgrade to protest the government's handling of the Covid-19 crisis
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said stricter measures, including a lockdown of Belgrade, were needed to counter the rise in Covid-19 cases.
Opponents blame the increase on the government and say people should not have to pay the price for another lockdown.
*) US formally notifies UN on WHO withdrawal by July 2021
The Trump administration has formally notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the World Health Organization.
The pullout will take effect on July 6, 2021, meaning it could be rescinded under a new administration or if circumstances change.
President Donald Trump had earlier vowed to terminate US participation in the WHO, blaming it for its response to the coronavirus pandemic and accusing it of bowing to Chinese influence.
*) China opens Hong Kong headquarters for its secret police
China has opened a new office for its intelligence agents to operate openly in Hong Kong for the first time under a tough new security law.
The new base is located in a converted hotel overlooking the city's Victoria Park, a location that has hosted anti-Beijing protests for years.
Beijing imposed a new security law on Hong Kong last week targeting acts of subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion.
And finally …
*) Beatles drummer Ringo Starr marks 80th birthday
Ringo Starr recently held an online 80th birthday bash with a little help from his celebrity friends in aid of causes, including Black Lives Matter.
Fans hoping for a virtual reunion between Starr and fellow surviving Beatle Paul McCartney were left a little disappointed.
Normally, Starr marks each passing year with live performances that include fellow musicians and fans, but the pandemic forced a rethink this time.
Britain announces sanctions against human rights offenders, and Native American groups ask the NFL to force Redskins to change name
*) UK unveils sanctions against human rights abusers
Britain has announced economic sanctions against human rights offenders from Russia, Saudi Arabia, Myanmar and North Korea.
The 49 individuals and organisations have been sanctioned under a new regime targeting people who violate human rights.
After Brexit, the UK implemented its own version of the US Magnitsky Act, allowing it to ban or seize assets of individuals guilty of rights abuses.
*) Social media platforms respond to Hong Kong security law
Social media giants including Facebook, WhatsApp, Google and Twitter have said they will block Hong Kong's request for user data.
The move comes as the companies study the ramifications of China’s national security law enacted in the former British colony last week.
TikTok also said it is stopping its popular video snippet-sharing app from working in Hong Kong due to the "recent events."
*)Australia's Victoria state reimposes coronavirus curbs
Australia's second-most populous state of Victoria is reimposing stay-at-home restrictions in Melbourne and another regional area.
The restrictions on more than 5 million people come after a record daily rise in coronavirus infections.
Australia has been among the world's most successful countries in containing its outbreak, having registered 8,755 cases and 106 deaths.
*) Prominent Iraqi analyst shot dead in Baghdad
Gunmen in Baghdad shot dead a well-known former government adviser and political analyst near his home.
Hisham al Hashemi appeared regularly on Iraqi TV and his expertise was sought out by government officials, journalists and researchers.
Government officials described the murder as a targeted killing but did not point the finger at any particular group.
And finally…
*) Native American groups ask the NFL to force Redskins name change
Several Native American leaders and organisations have asked the NFL to force Washington Redskins owner to change the team name immediately.
A letter sent to the NFL commissioner had asked the league to cease the use of Native American names, imagery and logos.
The letter put specific importance to Washington as its team name is called a “dictionary-defined racial slur” by Native American advocates and experts.
With nearly 700,000 coronavirus cases, India is the third worst-hit country, and first-ever online Paris Fashion Week clicks off
*) With nearly 700,000 coronavirus cases, India is third worst-hit country
India takes over Russia with the world's third-highest number of Covid-19 cases, at nearly 700,000, as the outbreak shows no sign of slowing.
Health ministry data showed more than 23,000 new cases reported in the past 24 hours, down slightly from Sunday's record increase of almost 25,000.
There have been almost 20,000 deaths in India since the first case was confirmed in January.
*) Governing HDZ party wins parliamentary vote with 68 seats
Croatia's governing party, the Croatian Democratic Union, or HDZ, has come out on top in parliamentary elections.
Official results gave the HDZ 68 seats in the 151-seat parliament. That's after around 60 percent of votes were counted.
But, it puts the party short of a majority government, and another ruling coalition will have to be formed. The Social Democratic Party and its allies secured 43 seats.
*) Libya’s High Council of State condemns attack on air base
Libya's UN-recognised government has condemned air raids against a strategic air base in the country's west.
Defence Minister Salah Namrush said the blitz was carried out by a "foreign air force" and Tripoli would respond "in the right place and at the right time."
The Libyan army had captured the base, located 125 kilometres from the capital, Tripoli, from warlord Khalifa Haftar's illegal militia in May.
*) With 180 refugees, Ocean Viking told to dock at Italian port
Italy will allow a rescue ship to dock at one of its ports, a week after the vessel found itself stranded in waters south of Sicily.
All 180 migrants, including children and a pregnant woman, aboard the Ocean Viking were rescued in June and have been tested for Covid-19.
They'll be placed under quarantine upon their arrival at a Sicilian port.
And finally…
*) First-ever online Paris fashion week clicks off
The first-ever online Paris Fashion Week clicks off with the world of glitzy runway shows thrown into an existential crisis by the coronavirus.
Paris haute couture and men's fashion weeks have been rolled into one, with labels making films to showcase their clothes.
The pandemic prompted an unprecedented bout of soul searching within the industry and led usually conflict-averse designers to call for a revolution that puts a brake on its frantic pace.
*)US Congress passes bill to sanction China over Hong Kong
The US Congress has approved a bill chiding China over its crackdown in Hong Kong as the city’s residents hold protests against a “national security” law.
Once the bill is enacted, the US will sanction groups that undermine Hong Kong’s semi-autonomous status, including police for crackdowns on protesters.
China's cabinet has already appointed Zheng Yanxiong [Chan Yen Sion] as the director of the mainland's new national security agency in Hong Kong.
*)US Covid-19 numbers reach record highs, employment improves
The US has recorded more than 53,000 new Covid-19 cases in 24 hours, setting a new record for the third day in a row.
Florida is a key focus for public health experts who are worried about a surge in southern and western US states.
US unemployment is at one of its worst points since the Great Depression despite dropping to 11.1 percent in June from 13.3 percent in May.
*)UK court sides with Guaido in Venezuela gold dispute
A British judge has refused to give Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro control of nearly $2 billion in gold sitting in a Bank of England vault.
Britain does not recognise Maduro as Venezuela’s president, instead acknowledging opposition politician Juan Guaido as the cash-strapped country’s leader.
Maduro has demanded the gold to help his financially troubled nation fight the coronavirus pandemic.
*)Ghislaine Maxwell, longtime pal of Epstein, facing jail for sex crimes
Ghislaine Maxwell, the former girlfriend and associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has been arrested.
She faces charges of luring underage girls so that Epstein, who died in jail last year, could sexually abuse them.
The arrest is the latest twist in the mystery of Epstein, who went from teaching high school maths to a high-flying lifestyle with powerful connections.
And finally…
*)Social media to face EU broadcasting rules on harmful content
Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and other social media will be subject to EU broadcasting rules on hate speech and harmful content.
The non-binding guidelines by the EU Commission apply to social platforms where audiovisual content is seen as an essential but not principal part of their business.
EU countries, which have until September 19 to implement the rules, will have the final say on the list of companies.
*) HK lawmaker: China's national security law 'evil'
Hong Kong’s legislators have spoken out against China's new national security law for the semi-autonomous city.
The small group of lawmakers said the bill undermines the city's independent judiciary and stifles freedoms.
Fernando Cheung, a moderate, described the law as "evil" – many opponents in Hong Kong use this phrase to express their dissent.
Meanwhile, Australia is considering offering visas to Hong Kong citizens threatened by the security bill.
*) US cases hit 52,000 in one day, buys up Covid-19 drug
The US has seen a record number of new coronavirus cases – more than 52,000 in one day.
More than half of new US cases every day come from Arizona, California, Florida and Texas, home to 30 percent of the population.
In the meantime, Washington announced it has purchased 92 percent of all remdesivir production by Gilead laboratory until the end of September.
*) Palestinians in West Bank protest annexation plans
Thousands of Palestinians protested against Israel's plan to annex the Jordan Valley and all of Israel's far-flung West Bank settlements.
Originally set for July 1 by Prime Minister Netanyahu, the annexation plan for occupied West Bank did not begin on Wednesday.
The delay cast further uncertainty over whether Israel will ultimately follow through on the controversial annexation initiative.
*) Hagia Sophia is Turkey's internal affair
A Turkish court is set to decide whether the Hagia Sophia will be converted into a mosque.
The Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque is currently a museum in Istanbul.
Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy has said the fate of Hagia Sophia is an internal matter after a US statement requested Turkey to maintain it as a museum.
And finally…
*) Sheeran, Stones back call to aid UK live music
Around 1,500 acts like Ed Sheeran, Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones are asking the UK to save the live music industry from collapsing because of the coronavirus.
They cited new research showing that live music added $5.6 billion to the British economy and supported 210,000 jobs across the country last year.
UK’s live music has been one of its biggest social, cultural, and economic successes, the artists wrote in a letter to the culture minister.
*)Israel says annexation of occupied West Bank unlikely on Wednesday
Israel's foreign minister has said in an announcement that the proposed annexation of occupied West Bank land was unlikely on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu set July 1 as the date from which it can begin implementing US President Trump's controversial Mideast proposal dubbed “Deal of the Century”.
Palestinians have rejected the Trump plan calling it the “slap of the century”. But they say they are willing to discuss alternatives with the Israelis.
*)Hong Kong makes first arrest under new national security law
Hong Kong police have made their first arrest under the new security legislation and warned of punishment for anti-Beijing material.
Riot police used pepper spray to arrest at least two people, while one metro station was closed as hundreds of protesters gathered for an annual rally.
Police earlier banned the rally, citing the law for the first time.
*)Russians set to back reforms allowing Putin to extend rule
Russians are casting their ballots this week in a vote on constitutional reforms that could prolong President Putin's hold on power.
Putin proposed the changes in January and they were quickly approved by Russia's two houses of parliament and regional lawmakers.
A nationwide vote to approve the reforms planned for April was postponed as Russia registered a surge in coronavirus infections.
*)Slaying of Ethiopian singer sparks protests, leaving at least 10 dead
At least 10 people were killed and more than 80 wounded after the killing of a popular singer triggered blasts and protests in Ethiopia's capital and the surrounding Oromiya region.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called the killing of musician Haacaaluu Hundeessaa "an evil act" in a televised address.
Police said several suspects have been arrested, without giving more details, except that Hundeessaa was targeted.
And finally…
*)Facebook boots far-right network and boosts original news
Facebook has disrupted a "violent US-based anti-government network" and vowed to give original news priority.
The decision comes as Facebook faces an advertiser boycott that has morphed into a global digital activist campaign aimed at curbing hateful and toxic content.
The disrupted network was loosely affiliated with the "Boogaloo" movement, whose followers have appeared at recent protests while heavily armed, the company said.
*)China passes controversial Hong Kong security law
We start in China, where the parliament has passed a controversial national security legislation for Hong Kong. State media is expected to publish details of the law soon.
The law comes in response to last year's often violent anti-China protests in Hong Kong.
The legislation is aimed at curbing subversive, secessionist and terrorist activities as well as foreign intervention in the city’s affairs.
*)Hong Kong activists quit democracy group Demosisto
Hong Kong activists Joshua Wong, Nathan Law, Jeffrey Ngo and Agnes Chow ended their involvement with Demosisto party, founded by leaders of the protests in 2014.
The move comes hours after China passed a sweeping national security law for the city.
Wong said he would be a “prime target” of Beijing’s new law. All four activists said they would continue to campaign in a personal capacity.
*)White House aware of intelligence on Russian bounties on US troops
President Donald Trump received a written briefing about alleged Russian bounties offered to Taliban militants to kill US troops as early as February.
Notes on bounties were included in a written version of the president's daily briefing in late February, The New York Times reported, citing two officials.
Trump has denied being informed of the assessment, while the White House said the claim had been kept from him.
*)Maduro gives EU ambassador 72 hours to leave Venezuela
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has given the head of the European Union mission in Caracas 72 hours to leave the country.
The move follows the bloc’s announcement of financial sanctions against 11 Venezuelan officials.
The EU said the Venezuelan officials are "responsible for acting against the National Assembly's democratic functioning."
And finally…
*)TikTok denies sharing Indian user data with China
TikTok denied sharing Indian user data with the Chinese government after New Delhi banned the popular app.
The company said user privacy is very important to them and would never share any such information even if asked in the future.
TikTok is owned by China's ByteDance and was one of 59 Chinese mobile apps banned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.
*)Mississippi removes Confederate symbol from its flag
Mississippi's legislature voted on Sunday to remove the controversial Confederate symbol from the state flag.
Protesters across the US have torn down dozens of Confederate statues and symbols of racism in recent weeks.
Civil rights leaders say it serves only to intimidate Black people and has nothing to do with honouring the state's history.
*)Gunmen attack Pakistani stock exchange
Gunmen have attacked the Pakistani stock exchange building situated in the heart of Karachi’s financial district.
Karachi police say at least four attackers have been killed in Monday’s attack. Local media reported at least two civilian casualties with multiple injuries.
The assailants attacked the building with grenades and guns, local media reported.
*)Poland's Duda, rival Trzaskowski face tight run-off
Voting has ended in Poland's presidential election.
Exit polls show President Andrzej Duda has won the majority of votes but has fallen short of a first-round victory.
The elections could reshape Poland’s tense relationship with the European Union.
Duda has pledged to maintain the status quo of more conservative Catholic values, while his main challenger Rafal Trzaskowski presented himself as progressive.
*)Vietnam grounds Pakistani pilots over licence concerns
Vietnam's aviation authority said it had grounded all Pakistani pilots working for local airlines.
This comes after concerns from global regulators that some pilots may have been using "dubious" licences.
The suspension will be in effect until further notice from the authority, which is coordinating with Pakistani authorities to review pilot profiles.
*)Starbucks joins companies in pausing social media ads
Starbucks will pause advertising on all social media platforms as it explores the best ways to help stop the spread of hate speech, the company said in a statement.
Starbucks said it will "have discussions internally and with media partners and civil rights organisations to stop the spread of hate speech."
The statement said though Starbucks is pausing advertising, it is not joining the "Stop Hate For Profit" boycott campaign kicked off earlier this month.
*)US health officials estimate 20M Americans have been infection
US officials estimate that 20 million Americans have been infected with the coronavirus since it first arrived in the United States
Officials have long known that many cases are being missed because of gaps in testing.
About a dozen states are seeing worrisome increases in cases as the Trump administration faces accusations of ignoring the spike.
*)Big explosion near Iran's capital Tehran
An explosion has taken place at an Iranian gas storage facility in an area which houses a sensitive military site near the capital Tehran.
A defence ministry spokesman said the explosion took place in the "public area" of Parchin as opposed to the military site.
The fire was brought under control and there were no casualties.
*)Police reform bill clears US House, heads for Senate showdown
The US House of Representatives has approved a controversial Democratic police reform bill, sending the measure to the Senate.
The bill opposed by President Donald Trump, would mandate concrete changes in law and policy to rein in police misconduct.
The bill follows George Floyd's death in Minneapolis police custody which sparked worldwide protests against racism and police brutality.
*)Mexico tops 25,000 coronavirus deaths and 200,000 cases
Mexico now has more than 25,000 Covid-19 deaths and 200,000 cases, the government has said.
Despite an increase in new cases and deaths, the government began gradually reopening the economy on June 1.
The capital Mexico City is still under a strict lockdown with more than 77,000 cases there and in its greater metropolitan region.
*)Liverpool clinches Premier League title after 30 years
Liverpool fans gathered at Anfield football stadium at night to celebrate the club's first Premier League title in 30 years.
Chelsea's 2-1 win over Manchester City confirmed the Reds as champions in England's Premier League for the 19th time.
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp dedicated the win to the fans and took a moment to recognise the part played by former players and managers in building the club.
*)UN, Arab league Israel to drop annexation plans
UN, European and Arab powers have all warned Israel that its imminent plan to annex Palestinian land would deal a major blow to peace.
The US, at a UN meeting, declined to criticise the move which comes off the back of President Donald Trump’s Middle East plan.
Arab League secretary general Ahmed Aboul Gheit warned the annexation could ignite “a religious war in and beyond” in the Middle East.
*)Trump says US moving troops to Poland
US President Donald Trump and his Polish counterpart, Andrzej Duda, have met at the White House, saying they look forward to signing a defence cooperation agreement.
Trump has promised to send US troops from Germany to Poland, a move he says sends a strong message to Russia.
Duda is the first world leader to visit the US since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.
*)Beijing officials declare outbreak ‘under control’
China has reported 19 newly confirmed cases of coronavirus amid mass testing in Beijing.
Authorities have raced to contain the outbreak, which has been linked to the largest wholesale food market in Beijing.
The city increased its daily testing capacity to 300,000 from 100,000 per day in early June and has tested nearly 3 million people since.
*)Three men indicted in Ahmaud Arbery case
A prosecutor in Georgia has indicted three men on murder charges in the killing of another black man.
Ahmaud Arbery was shot while running in a suburban neighbourhood in February.
It was only when a video of the killing went viral on social media at the beginning of May that the investigation began in earnest.
*)Smaller Toronto film festival plans virtual red carpets
The Toronto film festival is going ahead in September despite the coronavirus pandemic, organisers announced.
However, the red carpets will be virtual and far fewer movies will be premiered.
North America's largest film festival usually screens 300 to 400 feature and short films from dozens of countries each year.
*)Warring Libyan factions get ready for battle
Warring factions in Libya are mobilising to seize Sirte amid calls for de-escalation.
Ankara's backing helped the internationally recognised government drive warlord Khalifa Haftar’s militias from Tripoli and the northwest.
Libya’s deputy defence minister says Turkey has been coordinating action with the US, which took early action in confirming Russian air support for Haftar.
*)North Korea suspends military retaliation against South
North Korea has decided to suspend military action plans against South Korea, the official KCNA news agency reported.
A report suggested North Korean troops were taking down propaganda loudspeakers recently reinstalled in a tit-for-tat move at the fortified border.
Tensions between the rival Koreas has risen over Pyongyang's objections to defector groups in the South sending propaganda leaflets into the North.
*)China, India agree to disengage forces after deadly clash
China and India have agreed to reduce tensions a week after clashes on the disputed Himalayan border left 20 Indian troops dead in brutal hand-to-hand fighting.
The military commanders reached an agreement in their first meeting since the June 15 confrontation, the countries said on Tuesday.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said the two sides had an in-depth exchange of views over necessary de-escalation measures.
*)Washington makes face masks mandatory as infections surge
Washington’s governor has ordered residents to wear face masks in public after the US recorded a 25 percent rise in coronavirus cases last week.
Arizona, California, Mississippi and Nevada have all reported a record numbers of new Covid-19 cases.
The virus is now taking hold in rural areas in the US, including Arizona and Texas.
*)Twitter slaps warning on another Trump tweet
Twitter has slapped a warning on a tweet by US President Donald Trump in which he threatened "serious force" against BLM protesters in the US capital.
This is the second time Twitter has used a warning label on the president’s tweets which it said violated policy against abusive behaviour.
Trump posted the message after anti-racism protesters on Monday set up a "black house autonomous zone", barricading streets near the White House.
*) BLM protesters try to pull down Andrew Jackson statue
Black Lives Matter protesters tried to pull down a statue of former US president Andrew Jackson near the White House.
Clashes erupted after police used pepper spray to disperse demonstrators.
Activists have long criticised Jackson for signing the Indian Removal Act, in which thousands of people were driven from their land by the US government.
*) Employees want Google to stop doing business with police
More than 1,600 Alphabet Inc employees are petitioning its Google unit to stop doing business with US police departments.
The workers expressed disappointment with Google not joining millions who want to reform and defund police departments.
Google has faced internal criticism in the past over sales and partnerships involving the US military, as well as foreign governments.
*) Italy, Germany, US seek Libya ceasefire after Egypt threat
Italy, Germany and the US are pushing for a ceasefire and de-escalation of tensions in Libya.
It comes after Egypt warned the Libyan government it would send its military to help warlord Khalifa Haftar.
The UN said the last thing the country needs is more conflict.
*) South Africa cases surge past 100,000
South Africa says it has over 100,000 coronavirus cases, the highest number of infections reported in Africa.
The total number of virus-related deaths is inching closer to 2,000.
Despite the grim figures, data shows that 52.6 percent of virus patients have made full recoveries.
And finally…
*) Golden Globes postponed
Next year's Golden Globes awards ceremony has been postponed to February 28.
It comes as Hollywood scrambles to adjust to the coronavirus pandemic.
Earlier this month, the Oscars were postponed by eight weeks to April 25.
*) Global coronavirus infections surpass 9 million
As most countries around the world lift lockdown measures, the number of cases has surged past 9 million.
The biggest increase was from North and South America with over 116,000 new infections in the last 24 hours.
The death toll in Brazil, the world’s second hardest-hit country, rose to over 50,000.
*) Libya: Egypt’s military threat is a declaration of war
Libya's UN-backed government says it considers Egypt's threat of military intervention a declaration of war.
Libya's parliament is calling on the government to be ready to respond to any aggression from Egypt.
On Saturday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi said attacks against warlord Khalifa Haftar's militias could trigger direct military intervention by his country.
*) Noose found in stall of Bubba Wallace at Alabama NASCAR race
A noose was found in the garage stall of Black driver Bubba Wallace at a NASCAR race in Alabama.
This comes less than two weeks after he successfully pushed the stock car racing series to ban the Confederate flag at its tracks and facilities.
NASCAR launched an immediate investigation and says it will do everything possible to find out who was responsible and eliminate them from the sport.
*) Reading stabbing suspect was on MI5's radar
Reports say a Libyan man arrested in connection with the deadly stabbing attacks in Reading was on M15’s radar.
Three people were killed and another three injured in Saturday's attack, which was classified as an act of terrorism.
Khairi Saadallah was investigated by British security services over concerns that he was planning to travel abroad to join a militant group.
And finally…
*) Ring of Fire eclipse rewards viewers with perfect solar halo
Skywatchers across parts of Asia and Africa were left breathless by the dazzling Ring of Fire solar eclipse on the longest day of the year.
The moon did not completely cover the sun in this unique annular eclipse.
A ring of sunlight shone around the outer edges, rewarding viewers with a perfect solar halo.
*) China releases 10 Indian soldiers after deadly border clash
Three days after a deadly border clash, China has released 10 Indian soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel and three majors, Indian media said.
The Hindu newspaper said the release came after an agreement following major general-level talks between the two sides.
At least 20 Indian soldiers were killed on Monday in hand-to-hand fighting with Chinese troops along their disputed Himalayan border.
*) Australian PM warns of state-based cyber attack
In Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his country is under a broad cyberattack from a "state-based actor".
He said the attacker is targeting government, public services and businesses, but declined to name the culprit.
Morrison would not name the state, amid speculation that the cyberattacks were part of Australia’s increasingly hostile rift with China.
*) New Zealand shooting kills cop
A New Zealand police officer was killed and another seriously injured after they were shot during a routine traffic stop in Auckland city.
An urgent police hunt has begun for the suspect who fled the scene after the shooting.
Schools and daycare centres near the scene of the shooting were on lockdown. The shooter also injured a civilian when fleeing by car.
*) US top court blocks Trump bid to end DACA programme
The US Supreme Court has rejected President Donald Trump’s effort to end a major programme that protects young immigrants from deportation.
The programme protects 650,000 young immigrants who had made their way into the US without documents as children.
The court rejected the Trump administration’s arguments that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA programme is illegal.
And finally…
*) Warner Records signs Black Lives Matter protest singer
A 12-year-old has been signed by Warner Records after his song on growing up as a black American boy went viral.
Keedron Bryant’s song “I Just Wanna Live” will be released on Friday, the Juneteenth holiday marking the end of slavery in the US.
The song was written by his mother Johnnetta Bryant after she saw the video of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, being killed by US police.
Atlanta police officer charged with Rayshard Brooks murder and Eiffel Tower to reopen after Covid-19 lockdown
*)Atlanta police officer charged with murder for shooting black man
A white police officer has been charged with murder for killing 27-year-old Rayshard Brooks in Atlanta, officials announced.
US prosecutors said that the black man posed no threat when he was gunned down.
The killing had sparked new demonstrations against police brutality and came in the wake of similar protests in response to George Floyd’s police killing.
*)Sino-India border tensions
India is holding funerals for some of its 20 soldiers killed in hand-to-hand fighting with Chinese troops along their disputed Himalayan border.
Both sides have agreed to de-escalate the situation but blame each other for the deadliest clash between them since 1967.
The United Nations urged both sides “to exercise maximum restraint”.
*)Trump hits back at Bolton over scathing book
US President Donald Trump has dismissed a book written by his former adviser John Bolton.
In the book, Bolton says the president was driven by political calculations when making national security decisions and that Trump had even told Beijing to proceed ahead with Uighur detentions.
Trump later signed a bill for sanctions against Chinese officials involved in the repression of Uighur Muslims.
*)UN elects veteran Turkish diplomat as General Assembly president
The UN General Assembly elected former Turkish Ambassador Volkan Bozkir to be its president ahead of the 75th General Debate in September.
In a secret ballot vote Bozkir, who was unopposed for the post, received 178 ballots in support as 11 nations abstained.
Greece, the Greek Cypriot Administration and Armenia had asked for a vote rather than electing him by consensus.
And finally…
*)Eiffel Tower to reopen with new measures
The Eiffel Tower is preparing to welcome back visitors on June 25 after the Covid-19 lockdown.
Amid concerns about infection, visitors will not be able to go any higher than the second floor and can only initially go up the monument via staircase.
Managers said they hoped to get operations fully back to normal later in the summer.
India says 20 soldiers killed in border skirmishes with China, and steroid hailed as 'major breakthrough' in Covid-19 treatment
*)India says 20 soldiers killed in violent stand-off with China
The Indian Army says at least 20 of their soldiers were killed in a clash with Chinese troops along the two countries’ disputed Himalayan border.
The “violent hand-to-hand scuffles” took place in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh, part of India-administered Kashmir.
Both sides accuse each other of starting the deadliest clash between the nuclear-armed neighbours for more than four decades.
*)Turkey launches operation against PKK terror group in Iraq
The Turkish military has launched a ground operation – dubbed Claw-Tiger – against the PKK in northern Iraq.
The operation aims to remove the threat of PKK terrorists re-grouping in the region.
This comes a day after another major operation, Claw-Eagle, eliminated more than 80 PKK positions in northern Iraq.
*) Trump's executive order bans chokeholds with exception
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order introducing police reforms, including a conditional ban on officers using chokeholds.
The order calls for de-escalation training, better recruitment and sharing intel about officers with a history of bad behaviour.
The move comes in response to weeks of nationwide protests following the police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man in Minneapolis.
*)US imposes new sanctions on Assad regime
A new set of US sanctions against the Syrian regime and its supporters has come into effect, drawing criticism from Russia and China.
During a virtual meeting held by the UN Security Council, the US envoy said the move aims to push the regime towards a United Nations-brokered peace deal.
The nine-year-old Syrian war has killed some 400,000 people and displaced another ten million.
And finally…
*)Steroid hailed as 'major breakthrough' in Covid-19 treatment
The WHO and UK scientists are hailing a readily available drug as a new breakthrough treatment for severely ill Covid-19 patients.
Initial results from trials show steroid Dexamethasone can reduce mortality in patients requiring oxygen or ventilator support.
A WHO statement said it was "looking forward to the full data analysis in the coming days".
Beijing warns new Covid-19 outbreak 'extremely severe' and UEFA to complete Champions League with 'Final Eight' tournament
*)Beijing warns new Covid-19 outbreak is 'extremely severe'
Beijing says the situation in China’s capital is "extremely severe" as a new outbreak of coronavirus cases prompts mass testing and lockdowns.
There are now over 100 confirmed cases, making the outbreak the most serious in China since February.
The outbreak has been traced to the city's largest wholesale food market and officials have since put several neighbourhoods under lockdown.
*)Trump to halve US troops in Germany, a key NATO ally
US President Donald Trump says he wants to halve the number of troops in Germany because Berlin has fallen behind in its contributions to NATO.
Trump says another reason for his decision is how badly Germany treats the US as a trading partner.
There are 52,000 US troops stationed in Germany and Trump wants to redeploy 25,000 of them.
*)North Korean army 'fully ready' for action against Seoul
North Korea says its army is "fully ready" to take action against the South.
The threats come after South Korea was accused of allowing defectors to send anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets across the border.
Top North Korean military officials say they’ve been studying an action plan to re-enter zones currently demilitarised under a 2018 inter-Korean pact.
*)Seattle City Council votes to bar gas, spray
Seattle City Council has voted unanimously to ban police from using tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets and several other crowd control devices.
It comes after officers repeatedly used them on mostly peaceful Black Lives Matter protests against racism and police brutality after the death of George Floyd.
The vote follows a federal court ruling which temporarily banned the same devices.
And finally…
*)UEFA to complete Champions League with 'Final Eight' tournament
UEFA is set to complete the Champions League with a 'Final Eight' tournament held over 11 days in Lisbon.
The competition will resume with the second leg of the last 16 games played at the scheduled venues.
The plan allows for quicker completion of the season but does mean the competition will have six fewer games, which will cost UEFA broadcast revenue.
*)Turkey launches new counter-terrorism operation against PKK
Turkey has launched Operation Claw-Eagle in northern Iraq against PKK terrorists.
The counter-terrorism operation allows Turkey to defend its borders and its people by destroying PKK hideouts and supply lines in the mountainous region.
The PKK has been using northern Iraq as its de-facto base after launching its decades-long armed campaign against Turkey.
The group is designated as a terror group by Turkey, US and EU.
*)Autopsy declares Rayshard Brooks killing a homicide
The killing of Rayshard Brooks has been declared as a homicide. Atlanta's police chief resigned over the shooting and the white cop who killed Brooks was fired.
Brooks' killing has boosted already powerful global #BlackLivesMatter protests against racism and police brutality which reignited with the killing of George Floyd.
*) More lock downs as Beijing scrambles to contain new Covid-19 outbreak
China’s capital Beijing is trying to contain a new outbreak of coronavirus which originated from a food market.
Over 70 new cases were reported as a partial lockdown was reimposed across large parts of the city.
Other cities in the country are also warning their residents not to travel to the capital.
*)Philippine court finds news site chief guilty of libel
Award-winning journalist critical of Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, was convicted of libel and sentenced to jail.
The verdict against Rappler CEO Maria Ressa is being called a major blow to press freedom.
The verdict stems from a 2012 article that linked a wealthy businessman to murder, drug dealing, human trafficking and smuggling.
And finally…
*)Old man hit with $1.1M medical bill after beating Covid-19
A 70-year-old US man who beat #Covid19 got a heart-stopping surprise after leaving the hospital... a whopping $1.1 million medical bill!
Michael Flor spent 62 days in the hospital and received a 181-page bill after he was discharged.
Thankfully, he’s covered by a government insurance programme for the elderly, and does not have to pay a cent.
US President Trump announces plans for modest policing changes and Microsoft joins Amazon and IBM in banning face-recognition software sales to police
*)Anti-racism protests force US states to consider reforms
Opposed to major reforms, US President Donald Trump has announced modest plans for an executive order on policing.
The move follows nationwide protests against racism and police brutality, triggered by the police killing of unarmed black man George Floyd.
Trump has said the order will advise police departments to adopt national standards for the use of force.
*)Syria's Assad sacks PM over worsening economy
Syrian regime leader Bashar al Assad has removed Prime Minister Imad Khamis amid an economic crisis and renewed protests in the country.
The pound has plunged to record lows, adding to the hardship Syrians face as war continues to devastate the country.
The economic crisis has triggered a rare outbreak of anti-Assad protests in regime-held areas.
*)Libya government captures Haftar's main supply line
Libya's UN-backed government says it has gained control of a 350-km-long main supply line used by warlord Khalifa Haftar’s militia.
Meanwhile, the UN has expressed horror over the reported discovery of mass graves in Tarhuna city after it was seized from Haftar’s forces.
Libya’s government recaptured Tarhuna last Friday as part of an ongoing operation against the warlord.
*)ICC says US sanctions ‘unprecedented attack’
The International Criminal Court has slammed US sanctions on its staff investigating possible war crimes by American forces in Afghanistan.
An executive order by President Trump authorised the blocking of assets of the ICC employees in the US and their entry into the country.
The ICC said Trump’s move amounted to threats and coercion and were "an unacceptable attempt to interfere with rule of law".
And finally…
*)Microsoft bans face-recognition sales to police
Microsoft joins Amazon and IBM to become the third big tech company this week to ban sales of facial recognition software to police.
The tech giants are stepping back from law-enforcement using their systems that faced criticism for misidentifying people with darker skin.
Ongoing protests following the death of George Floyd have focused attention on racial injustice and how police use technology to track people.
George Floyd's brother urges Congress for police reforms and stolen Banksy work recovered in Italy
*)George Floyd's brother urges Congress to pass police reform
The brother of George Floyd, whose killing by police sparked worldwide protests against racism, made an emotional plea to Congress to "stop the pain" as US lawmakers consider sweeping police reforms.
Philonise Floyd said his brother "didn't deserve to die over $20" in what he called a lynching.
He urged lawmakers to fix law enforcement problems, including systemic racism.
*)Mass graves found in Tarhuna after illegal militia retreat
Libya's UN-backed government has discovered another mass grave from an area retaken from warlord Khalifa Haftar’s militia.
The number of bodies found in Tarhuna, south of Tripoli, hasn't been made public yet, but officials say decomposition could interfere with identifying the remains.
Libya’s government recaptured Tarhuna last Friday as part of an ongoing operation against Haftar.
*)Syrian currency plummets and prices of food items soar
Hundreds of Syrians in the regime-run city of Suwayda took to the streets for a fourth day to protest against a decaying economy.
Food prices have doubled to an all-time high, the country is facing a fuel crisis and the value of its currency has plummeted to a record low.
The economic crisis is hitting the country hard and forcing citizens to take drastic measures to keep their families fed.
*)Egypt's female TikTok influencers in state's crosshairs
Egyptian women with thousands of followers on popular social media app TikTok have become the latest target of state authorities.
They’re accusing influencers of spreading immorality by posting satirical clips and encouraging other women to join and earn by getting more views.
Human rights groups say the situation shows how the conservative society is wrestling with the rapid rise of modern communications technology.
And finally…
*)Stolen Banksy work recovered in Italy
Italian police have retrieved artwork by Banksy, which commemorates victims of the November 2015 Paris terror attacks.
The piece was stolen from France’s Bataclan concert hall and was found in an abandoned Italian farmhouse.
The work is an image of a girl in mourning painted on one of the emergency doors of the Parisian venue.
George Floyd laid to rest and Pakistan battles locusts by turning them into chicken feed
*)George Floyd laid to rest
George Floyd was fondly remembered at his funeral as 'Big Floyd', a father, brother, athlete and neighbourhood mentor.
But he will always be remembered around the world as a catalyst for change after his death sparked a global reckoning over police brutality and racism.
More than 500 mourners packed a Houston church on Tuesday where the service took place before he was entombed next to his mother.
*)EU urges immediate ceasefire in Libya
The European Union is urging all parties involved in Libya's conflict to end violence and engage in peace talks.
The EU also called for the withdrawal of all foreign forces that are supplying mercenaries and military equipment.
The UAE and Russia are supplying weapons to warlord Khalifa Haftar's illegal militia.
*)Australia could be coronavirus-free by July
Australia is on course to be coronavirus-free by July, according to their health department.
The state of New South Wales has already announced the removal of restrictions on community sports.
The country logged an increase of seven cases overnight, bringing total nationwide cases to 7,274.
*)US theatre world accused of exploiting and excluding people of colour
Top celebrities signed their name on an open letter to the US theatre world decrying racism.
Viola Davis, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Cynthia Erivo joined some 300 actors and playwrights by saying theatres had exploited, excluded and diminished people of colour.
The signatories complained of tokenism, prioritising white theatre for white audiences and a failure to make promised changes in programming or leadership.
And finally…
*)Pakistan battles locusts by turning them into chicken feed
Chickens in Pakistan are feasting on captured locusts under an initiative to combat swarms that are threatening food supplies in the country.
The government is expanding a pilot project where villagers earn cash to gather locusts, dry them, shred them and add the powder into poultry feed.
Farmers are struggling as the worst locust plague in 25 years wipes out entire harvests.
*)George Floyd to be buried in Houston
The African American whose death has inspired a worldwide reckoning over racial injustice will be buried in Houston later today at 1600GMT.
George Floyd, who was 46 when he was killed by a white policeman, will be laid to rest next to his mother during a private service.
A public memorial service was held on Monday in Houston, where he grew up, and was attended by some 6,000 people.
*)Hong Kong marks a year since anti-Beijing protests erupted
Hong Kong is marking a year since anti-Beijing protests erupted.
Mass arrests, coronavirus bans on gatherings and a looming national security law is keeping a lid on any return to citywide unrest.
Seven months of massive and often violent rallies kicked off on June 9 last year when as many as one million people took to the streets to oppose a bill allowing extraditions to mainland China.
*)Haftar's illegal militia bombs field hospital in northwest Libya
Libya’s UN-backed government continues to take territory occupied by warlord Khalifa Haftar's illegal militia.
Government forces are advancing on the city of Sirte after taking control of all the warlord's former outposts in the west.
On Monday, Turkish President Erdogan said Turkey and the US were approaching a new era in ties over the handling of the situation in Libya.
*)Brazil accused of manipulating coronavirus data
Brazil has reported 679 new deaths from Covid-19 as controversy grows over the country's official data amid allegations of political manipulation.
Brazil's health ministry removed data from its website over the weekend and stopped releasing cumulative figures.
Brazil's death toll now stands at over 37,000, the world's third-highest.
And finally…
*)Fossil of 2 million-year-old frog found in Argentina
Argentine palaeontologists have uncovered fossilised remains of a rare species of frog which lived two million years ago.
The fossil was discovered 44 metres underground during the digging of a well in San Pedro.
Despite the fossil's size, it was possible to identify the frog because these amphibians have a unique structure where the upper arm meets the elbow joint.
*)New Zealand says coronavirus eliminated
New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has declared her country coronavirus-free with the recovery of the last known patient.
All measures will be lifted starting Tuesday, except for border controls, in the southwestern Pacific island nation of over 4.8 million people.
New Zealand has won praise for its handling of the pandemic, which involved a strict seven-week lockdown that ended last month.
*)Minneapolis council vows to dismantle police department
A veto-proof majority of the Minneapolis City Council has pledged to phase out the police department to create a new way to ensure public safety.
It comes as a sign that the Black Lives Matter protests following the police killing of George Floyd are having a major impact.
The Minneapolis council has not yet formally discussed defunding or reimagining its police force, but its president, Lisa Bender, says a majority were in support.
*)Tropical Storm Cristobal makes landfall in Louisiana
Tropical Storm Cristobal made landfall in southeastern Louisiana, bringing strong winds, heavy rains and the threat of damaging storm surges.
The US National Hurricane Center has issued a storm surge warning for the area from the mouth of the Mississippi River to Ocean Springs.
President Donald Trump said he would be signing an emergency declaration for Louisiana, freeing up federal aid.
*)Former Argentinian president accused of spying on journalists
Argentina's intelligence agency says the administration of previous President Mauricio Macri spied on over 400 journalists.
Dozens of foreign journalists appeared on a list to be investigated in relation to the G20 and WTO summits held in Buenos Aires in recent years.
Around 100 academics, businesspeople and prominent figures from civil society are also on the list.
And finally…
*)New tennis tournament in France aims for a younger audience
A new digitally-friendly tennis tournament in southern France can change the way tennis is viewed.
The Ultimate Tennis Showdown aims to appeal to a younger audience in order to grow its fanbase community.
Matches will be streamed live and viewers will have access to all the emotional rawness that goes on in a game and will also include on-court coaching.
BlackLivesMatter protests continue across major cities in the US and South Africa dehorns rhinos to curb poaching surge.
*)Mass protests in aftermath of George Floyd's death continue in US
Hundreds of mourners joined an emotional memorial service in Minneapolis for George Floyd, the black man killed by police last week.
The crowd stood in silence for eight minutes and 46 seconds – the same length of time that officer Derek Chauvin spent with his knee on Floyd's neck.
Largely peaceful demonstrations also took place later in cities from coast to coast.
*)Brazil's official coronavirus death toll higher than Italy's
Brazil's Covid-19 death toll surged past 34,000 to become the third-highest in the world, surpassing Italy's tally.
Experts say undertesting in Brazil means the real numbers are probably much higher.
The novel coronavirus has infected more that 6.6 million people around the world, with 3.2 million recoveries and more than 390,000 deaths.
*)Libyan army takes full control of capital Tripoli
The Libyan Army has retaken control of the country's main airport and announced the complete liberation of the capital Tripoli.
Tripoli's forces have now moved into another city to the southeast, the last stronghold for warlord Khalifa Haftar in western Libya.
Meanwhile, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced an increase in support for Libya's internationally recognised leader Fayez al Sarraj.
*)Madeleine McCann assumed dead, German prosecutor says
Madeleine McCann, the British girl who disappeared in Portugal in 2007, is assumed to be dead.
A German prosecutor said that an imprisoned German child abuser is the murder suspect.
The three-year-old's disappearance had sparked an international search, including celebrity appeals for information.
And finally…
*)South Africa dehorns rhinos to curb poaching surge
South Africa has dehorned dozens of rhinos in three popular game parks to prevent poachers taking advantage of the post-Covid-19 tourism slump.
Dehorning is controversial, especially as it makes male rhinos vulnerable in fights.
But they are not essential for survival, and, like fingernails, they grow back.
Daily News Brief for Thursday, June 4th:
*) Additional charged filed against policemen in Floyd case
The Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on the neck of George Floyd until he died will now be charged with second-degree murder.
Three other officers will face charges of aiding and abetting second-degree murder.
The police killing of the African American man triggered widespread protests in the US and several other countries, including Greece where firebombs were lobbed at the US Embassy.
Thousands took to the streets in London to demand justice for Floyd.
*) Covid-19 pandemic surges in South America
Brazil hit another grim coronavirus record, 1,300 deaths in 24 hours, which pushed the national death toll to over 32,000.
Mexico also reported its highest toll in one day so far, with close to 1,100 virus deaths.
Peru and Chile recorded more than 4,000 infections each on Wednesday, despite the former implementing strict early measures.
*) Hong Kong lawmakers to vote on China national anthem bill
A Hong Kong legislative debate on a national anthem bill was suspended after anti-China lawmakers protested, one of them dropping a pot of pungent liquid in the chamber.
The bill proposes criminal charges for disrespecting China’s national anthem.
A final vote on the bill is expected later on Thursday as people in Hong Kong mark the bloody 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown by China.
*) UN office denounces human rights violations in Philippines
The UN human rights office has called on the Philippine government to end police violence targeting suspected drug offenders.
Tens of thousands of suspects may have been killed by the Philippine police with “near impunity” since mid-2016, according to the UN report.
The report also called on the Philippines to disband private and state-backed paramilitary groups operating in the country.
And finally…
*) Facebook signs licencing deal with century-old Indian music label
Facebook has signed a global licencing deal with one of India’s largest music labels – Saregama.
The partnership will allow users to choose from a large catalogue of Bollywood music for Facebook and Instagram posts.
Shares of Saregama India Limited shot up 20 percent on the deal.
Daily News Brief for Wednesday, June 3rd:
*) Minneapolis police face civil rights probe over Floyd death
The US state of Minnesota has launched a civil rights investigation of the Minneapolis Police Department after the killing of George Floyd.
The investigation aims to identify short-term ways to address the police department's history of racial discrimination.
Unarmed black man George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis police custody, sparked global protests as demonstrations continue across the US.
*) Brazil Covid-19 death toll crosses 30,000
Brazil has crossed 30,000 coronavirus deaths, overtaking France and Spain as the disease rips through the South American country.
Figures released by the health ministry showed some 1,200 deaths in the past 24 hours, as well as over 28,000 new infections.
The overall number of cases –– over 550,000 –– makes Brazil the second most affected country by the crisis after the United States.
*) Hong Kong debates national anthem bill
Hong Kong lawmakers are set to resume a debate over a controversial bill that would make disrespecting China's national anthem a criminal offence.
The ban comes on the heels of China's plan to directly impose another set of laws on Hong Kong which would crack down on secession and dissent.
The move has drawn international condemnation and revived anti-government demonstrations in the former British colony.
*) Mumbai braces for cyclone
The streets of Mumbai are emptying as Cyclone Nisarga heads for India's megacity Mumbai.
The cyclone is expected to make landfall between the coastal region of Maharashtra and Gujarat states, with winds up to 120km per hour.
Maharashtra and Gujarat have evacuated more than 100,000 people from coastal areas, especially those staying in slums and makeshift houses.
And finally…
*) Social media, music world go dark for #BlackOutTuesday
Major stars muted themselves on social media on #BlackOutTuesday to amplify black voices in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Instagram and Twitter accounts were full of black squares posted in response to the killing of George Floyd by a white police officer in the US.
Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Radiohead, Coldplay, Kelly Rowland and the Beastie Boys were among celebrities who participated in Black Out Tuesday on social media.
Daily News Brief for Tuesday, June 2nd:
*) Trump threatens to deploy military to quell US protests
US President Donald Trump has threatened to send in the military if governors do not stamp out #BlackLivesMatter protests.
The protests were triggered by the death of George Floyd, who died when a white police officer pressed his knee into the black man’s neck.
His announcement came as police forced back peaceful demonstrators with tear gas so he could walk to a nearby church and pose with a Bible.
*) Brazil registers over 11,000 cases in 24 hours as cities reopen
Brazil’s health ministry has confirmed more than 11,000 new cases of the coronavirus and over 600 new deaths in the last 24 hours.
Some of Brazil’s hardest-hit cities, including Manaus and Rio de Janeiro, are reopening despite a national tally of some 529,000 infections and 30,000 deaths.
The World Health Organization says four of the 10 countries showing the highest number of virus cases in the last 24 hours were in South America.
*) Libyan warlord Haftar agrees to ceasefire talks – UN
Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar has agreed to the resumption of ceasefire talks with the UN-backed government.
This was announced by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya on Twitter.
Libya's UN-recognised government has been under attack by Haftar's militants since April 2019, with more than 1,000 people killed in the violence.
*) Plane carrying Iranian scientist jailed in US has taken off – Zarif
Iran's foreign minister says a plane had taken off from the US carrying Iranian scientist Sirous Asgari after his apparent release from a US prison.
Asgari, a materials science professor, was accused by a US court in 2016 of stealing trade secrets while on an academic visit to Ohio.
He was acquitted in November.
And finally…
*) Zimbabwean film industry makes Netflix debut with ‘Cook Off’
Zimbabwean movie “Cook Off”, a romance about a struggling single mother who finds love during a cooking competition, has premiered on Netflix.
Zimbabwe often makes headlines for its economic woes and political crises, but producer Joe Njagu said the film sought to project a different image.
The low budget film was shot in 2017 but very few people in Zimbabwe had heard of it despite the fact that it had won several awards at
Unrest overshadows peaceful #BlackLivesMatter protests for another night in the US, and SpaceX’s astronaut-riding Dragon arrives at the ISS.
*)US protests against police brutality continue despite curfews
US police fired tear gas outside the White House late on Sunday as anti-racism protesters voiced fury at police brutality against mostly black Americans.
At least 40 cities were put under curfew as #BlackLivesMatter protests continued for the sixth consecutive day, following the death of George Floyd.
Throughout the country, police used tear gas, pepper spray and flash grenades to disperse crowds and members of the press.
Some 4,100 people have been arrested since the start of protests.
*)Brazil passes 500,000 Covid-19 cases
The number of novel coronavirus cases in Brazil, the second-worst hit country after the US, has crossed the half-million mark.
Confirmed cases in South America have surged past one million.
The virus has infected more than 6.2 million people around the world, with a death toll of close to 374,000.
*)Thousands face homelessness in Greece refugee relocation push
Thousands of recognised refugees in Greece are about to lose the temporary homes they were given under an asylum seeker scheme.
Authorities are relocating more than 11,200 people out of their homes on the mainland to make room for others living in dismal island camps.
The step follows the Greek government’s decision to reduce the period refugees get to keep their accommodations from six months to only one month.
*)At least 50 die in Burkina Faso attacks blamed on militants
At least 50 people have died over the weekend in Burkina Faso in a string of attacks that officials have blamed on militants.
An aid convoy ambush in the northern town of Barsalogho saw at least 10 people killed.
Another attack on a livestock market in the east of Burkina Faso claimed 25 lives.
And finally…
*)SpaceX’s astronaut-riding Dragon arrives at space station
SpaceX has delivered two astronauts to the International Space Station for NASA on Sunday after a historic lift-off.
The SpaceX Dragon capsule pulled up to the station with test pilots Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken on board, no assistance needed.
This is the first time a privately built and owned spacecraft has carried astronauts to the orbiting lab in nearly 20 years.
Brazil sees record increase in daily coronavirus cases and a cat in France might be the first known pet feline to survive Covid-19
*)Brazil registers record increase in daily Covid-19 cases
Brazil has registered a new record in Covid-19 cases and more than 1,000 dead in a 24 hour period, according to official figures from Thursday.
With over 438,000 cases, Brazil is second to the US in confirmed infections but its testing rate is 12 times lower.
The lack of widespread testing in Brazil has led some experts to believe the country’s actual number of cases could be higher.
*)Minneapolis burns over racially charged killing of George Floyd
Peaceful rallies gave way to a third night of arson and vandalism in Minneapolis, US, as protesters raged over the death of a black man.
George Floyd was seen on video gasping for breath as a white police officer knelt on his neck, a cop with many complaints and reprimands against him.
Authorities in the US city have acquired reinforcements from the National Guard as they brace for fresh protests over the racially-charged killing.
*)China parliament adopts plan to impose security law on Hong Kong
China’s parliament has endorsed plans to impose a national security law on Hong Kong that critics say will destroy the city’s freedoms.
The law, once enacted, will punish secession, subversion of state power, terrorism and acts that endanger national security.
Hundreds of people were arrested in Hong Kong on Wednesday as thousands protested against pro-China law.
*)Trump escalates war on Twitter, social media protections
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to scrap a law that protected social media companies.
If enforced, the action would upend decades of precedent and treat internet platforms as "publishers" potentially liable for user-generated content.
With the move, Trump aims to rally supporters after he lashed out at Twitter for applying fact checks to claims he made in two of his tweets.
And finally…
*)French cat survives coronavirus infection
A nine-year-old cat in France is the first known case of a pet having recovered from the coronavirus.
There have only been a handful of other known cases globally, with infected owners being the likely source of the disease.
There are no known cases of humans getting infected from their pets.
*) US Covid-19 death toll tops 100,000 as new hotspots emerge
More than 100,000 people have died of Covid-19 in the US, the highest death toll in the world.
The pandemic has infected more than 5.7 million people in the world as countries struggle to contain the virus.
South America, the Indian subcontinent and Africa are now emerging as new areas of concern, with 118,000 coronavirus cases across the 54 nations of Africa.
*) China parliament adopts plan to impose security law on Hong Kong
China’s parliament has endorsed plans to impose a national security law on Hong Kong that critics say will destroy the city’s freedoms.
The law, once enacted, will punish secession, subversion of state power, terrorism and acts that endanger national security.
Hundreds of people were arrested in Hong Kong on Wednesday as thousands protested against pro-China laws.
*) Protests continue over US police killing black man
Demonstrators have filled the streets of Minneapolis for a second night to protest the death of an unarmed black man in police custody.
George Floyd died after being pinned down to the ground as a police officer drove his knee into Floyd's neck for nearly seven minutes.
Prosecutors say they have called in the FBI to help investigate the case, which could involve a federal felony and civil rights violation.
*) US ends waivers for nations in Iran nuclear deal
The US says it is ending waivers in sanctions clauses for nations that remain in the Iran nuclear accord.
The waivers allowed Russian, Chinese and European companies to continue work on Iran's nuclear facilities.
Trump’s administration has been applying maximum pressure on Tehran since the US abandoned the 2015 Iran deal two years ago.
And finally…
*) SpaceX, NASA delay mission over lightning fears
SpaceX's landmark launch carrying two NASA astronauts to the International Space Station has been postponed due to poor weather.
The first crewed mission to blast off from American soil in nearly a decade is the first-ever manned space flight facilitated by a private company.
Another attempt will be made this weekend.
*) Brazil leads daily virus deaths for fifth straight day
Brazil has reported the highest daily coronavirus death toll in the world, with 1,039 people killed.
It is the fifth straight day the country has topped the list as its daily death toll surge past that of the US.
Brazil has recorded more than 391,000 infections. The US still has by far the highest number of Covid-19 cases in the world, with over 1.68 million people infected.
*) Hong Kong police fire tear gas at protesters
Hong Kong police have fired pepper ball rounds and tear gas at protesters in the city's commercial district.
The protests erupted ahead of a debate in the legislature over a law that bans insulting China's national anthem.
If the bill passes, any person who insults the anthem could face jail time of up to three years or a fine of more than 6,000 dollars.
*) Four Minneapolis officers fired after death of black man
Four police officers in the US state of Minnesota have been sacked for the death of a black man in police custody.
The move came hours after a bystander’s video showed the man pleading that he could not breathe as a white officer knelt on his neck.
Protesters filled the intersection in the street where Floyd died and called for justice.
*) Child labour, marriages on rise in Yemen – UN agency
The UN refugees agency says rising numbers of families are resorting to begging, child labour and marrying off children as Covid-19 spreads in Yemen.
The UNHCR provides cash assistance programmes to some one million those who rely on the money for food, medicine and shelter in Yemen.
Last week, the UN said the country’s healthcare system “has in effect collapsed”.
And finally…
*) JK Rowling publishes new fairy tale for kids
British author JK Rowling has published the first chapters of a fairy tale about a monster known as the Ickabog online during coronavirus lockdown.
The Ickabog is the writer’s first children story that is not linked to Harry Potter.
Rowling announced on Twitter that further chapters will be published every weekday until July 10.
Countries past their peak continue to ease Covid-19 restrictions, and human vaccine trials start in Australia
*)Countries lift Covid-19 restrictions
We start with the pandemic as several countries, including Japan, Germany, Greece,Italy and Spain, ease restrictions.
In the US, where the coronavirus death toll is nearly 100,000, Americans headed en masse to beaches and parks for Memorial Day weekend.
Latin America and Southeast Asia are slowly taking over as Covid-19 hotspots, with a massive uptick in cases in Brazil, India and Pakistan.
*)Hong Kong leader defends security law
Defending China’s proposal, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says Beijing’s national security law will not infringe on the city’s rights and freedoms.
China earlier unveiled plans for national security legislation for Hong Kong that it says aim to tackle secession, subversion and terrorist activity.
Protesters responded by taking to the streets, saying the proposed law goes against Hong Kong’s "one country, two systems" governance formula.
*)Afghanistan frees 100 Taliban prisoners as Eid truce holds
Afghanistan has freed 100 Taliban prisoners as part of the government’s response to a ceasefire offered by the insurgents to mark Eid al Fitr.
The government plans to release up to 2,000 Taliban inmates as a “goodwill gesture” in response to the ceasefire offer.
Violence has escalated since Washington signed a deal with the Taliban to withdraw all US forces from Afghanistan by 2021.
*)Venezuela celebrates docking of Iranian fuel tanker
Venezuelan authorities celebrated as the first of five Iranian tankers loaded with gasoline docked in the South American country.
The tankers are delivering badly needed fuel to the crisis-stricken nation that sits atop the world’s largest oil reserves.
The shipments are arriving in defiance of sanctions imposed by the US against both nations.
And finally…
*)Novavax begins human trials with potential Covid-19 vaccine
US vaccine company Novavax has begun testing a prospective Covid-19 vaccine in Australia.
The company will inject 131 volunteers in the first phase of testing the safety of the vaccine and looking for signs of its effectiveness.
Novavax said animal testing suggested the vaccine is effective in low doses.
Hong Kong protesters slam China’s proposed security law, and first SpaceX astronauts break new ground for style
*) Hong Kong protesters slam China’s proposed security law
Hong Kong protesters rallied over the weekend against Beijing’s plans to impose a new national security law in the former British colony.
Police fired tear gas and water cannons at protesters and arrested more than 180 people during demonstrations which rocked the financial hub.
Protesters say China’s proposal goes against “the one country, two systems” framework.
Hong Kong’s security chief says the territory needs the law to tackle “terrorism”, referring to the protests.
*) Muslims celebrate Eid with social distancing
Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al Fitr to mark the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting.
But in most places, celebrations have been overshadowed by the coronavirus pandemic.
Restrictions and social distancing measures limited Eid traditions and many people were unable to travel home for celebrations.
*) Covid-19 pandemic continues its spread
India is now among the ten countries with the most coronavirus cases, with its confirmed infections nearing 139,000.
In Brazil, confirmed Covid-19 cases have risen past 360,000 over the weekend, second only to the US.
The pandemic has infected more than 5.5 million around the world, killing more than 345,000 people.
*) Russian fighters leave Libya after retreat of Haftar militia
A local mayor in Libya said Russia’s Wagner Group has left the country after the retreat of warlord Khalifa Haftar’s militia.
Salem Alaywan, the mayor of Bani Walid town, said fighters were flown out of western Libya to Jufra on three airplanes.
Haftar’s militias have recently suffered a string of setbacks while fighting Turkey-backed forces of the UN-recognised government in Tripoli.
And finally…
*) SpaceX’s first astronauts breaking new ground for style
The first astronauts to be launched by SpaceX are breaking new ground for style.
Nasa astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken will have hip spacesuits, gull-wing Teslas, and a sleek rocketship, all of it white with black trim.
Wednesday’s will be the first astronaut launch from Nasa’s Kennedy Space Center since 2011.
*) Brazil suffers record 1,188 daily coronavirus deaths
Brazil has confirmed a record of 1,188 daily coronavirus deaths, taking its total fatalities past 20,000.
Brazil now has more than 310,000 cases, the world’s third-highest number of infections after the US and Russia.
Most of the country's 27 states are under lockdown but many Brazilians are taking their lead from President Bolsonaro who is anti the restrictions.
*) Hong Kong activists call for protest against new security laws
In Hong Kong, activists have called for a protest march against China’s plans to impose national security legislation in the financial hub.
Beijing is moving to impose new national security legislation after last year's unrest which plunged Hong Kong into turmoil for months.
The introduction of Hong Kong security laws is on the agenda of the Chinese parliament, which begins its annual session today.
*) Libyan army continues advance against Haftar militia
Forces loyal to Libya's internationally backed government have recaptured the strategic town of Mizdah south of the capital, Tripoli.
The UN-backed government is now preparing to retake the city of Tarhuna, which has been a stronghold for warlord Khalifa Haftar's illegal militia.
If the government retakes control of Tarhuna, Haftar will lose his hold over western Libya.
*) Khashoggi family forgives his murderers
The family of murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi says they have forgiven the people who killed their father.
The family’s decision effectively grants clemency to five convicted people on death row based on Saudi law.
Khashoggi's fiancee Hatice Cengiz says nobody has the right to pardon the men who killed and dismembered the journalist in Istanbul in 2018.
And finally…
*) Cher tweets joy as Pakistan decides to free elephant Kaavan
Cher has joined Pakistanis in celebrating a court’s decision to free a lonely elephant named Kaavan.
Outrage over the treatment of Kaavan went global with after it emerged he lived in chains at a zoo in the country’s capital Islamabad.
A high court ordered wildlife officials to consult with Sri Lanka to find Kaavan a “suitable sanctuary” within 30 days after, three decades of torture.
*) Brazil coronavirus outbreak worsens
We start in Brazil, which saw its worst single-day spike in Covid-19 cases on Wednesday – nearly 20,000 new infections.
With more than 291,000 cases and 18,000 deaths, Brazil has become the world’s third hardest-hit country by the pandemic after the US and Russia.
The total number of global coronavirus cases surged past five million on Wednesday.
*) UN envoy urges Israel to abandon annexation threats
UN's Middle East envoy Nickolay Mladenov says Israel must abandon its threat to annex parts of the occupied West Bank.
"The dangerous prospect of annexation by Israel of parts of Occupied West Bank is a growing threat," Mladenov told the UN Security Council.
His remarks came after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced he is ending "all agreements" with Israel and the US over the plan.
*) Cyclone leaves deaths in India and Bangladesh
Cyclone Amphan has slammed into coastal India and Bangladesh, killing at least 22 people.
Up to eight people have died in Bangladesh as India’s West Bengal state saw at least 12 fatalities.
At the moment, Cyclone Amphan’s damages are impossible to assess accurately; most of the deaths appeared to be a result of collapsing walls and drowning.
*) Michigan dam failure displaces thousands
More than 10,000 residents have evacuated their homes in the US state of Michigan after two dams failed following heavy rain.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency in Midland County, the site of the breached dams.
The National Weather Service warned of life-threatening flash floods and urged people in the area to seek higher ground immediately.
And finally…
*) Global warning turns Antarctica's snow green
“Green snow” caused by blooming algae is expected to spread in the Antarctic Peninsula with increases in global temperatures.
Researchers combined satellite imagery with on-the-ground observations to detect the current extent of green algae in the continent.
They identified more than 1,600 separate green algae blooms on snow across the peninsula, with a combined surface area of 1.9 sq km.
Brazil suffers record daily coronavirus deaths, and Dutch farm worker contracts Covid-19 from mink
*)Brazil suffers record coronavirus deaths
Brazil's daily Covid-19 death toll jumped to a record 1,179 as President Jair Bolsonaro doubled down on chloroquine as a possible remedy.
The pandemic has killed at least 17,971 people and infected more than 270,000 others in Brazil, according to the Health Ministry.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said he is considering a travel ban from Brazil.
*)Palestinian leader Abbas ends 'all agreements' with Israel, US
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas ended “all agreements,” including security coordination with Israel and the United States.
The move comes in response to Israel's plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank, which he said would ruin chances for peace in the Middle East.
The Palestinian leader also turned over responsibility of occupied territories back to Israel.
*)Haftar militias pull out of parts of Libya's Tripoli
Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar's illegal militia said it was retreating from parts of the capital, Tripoli.
The militia's pull out follows its loss of control over Watiya airbase to the UN-backed government in western Libya earlier this week.
Since then, the Libyan army has taken control of Badr, Tiji and Al Asabia towns.
*)Eight Afghan soldiers die fighting off Taliban attack on key city
At least eight Afghan soldiers were killed while repelling a fierce Taliban attack on Kunduz city in northern Afghanistan.
Officials said three civilians and 40 Taliban fighters were killed while 50 others were wounded in the assault.
In a separate incident in the north of Kabul, gunmen opened fire on worshippers at a mosque, killing at least seven people and wounding 12.
And finally…
*)Dutch farm worker contracted coronavirus from mink
A Dutch farm worker contracted the coronavirus from mink, the country's agriculture minister told the parliament in a letter.
Carola Schouten acknowledged that earlier advisories from her office, who alleged people could infect animals, but not the other way around, were wrong.
Outbreaks on mink farms in the Netherlands were first reported in April.
Trump threatens permanent freeze of WHO funding, and Rio launches pet delivery service for residents in isolation
*)Trump threatens permanent freeze of WHO funding
President Donald Trump has threatened to permanently stop funding to the WHO and reconsider US membership of the body.
Trump suspended US contributions to the WHO last month, accusing it of promoting China's "disinformation" about the coronavirus outbreak.
The UN-specialised agency is leading a global initiative to develop safe and effective vaccines, tests and drugs to prevent, diagnose and treat Covid-19.
*)Air strikes target militia escaping key base
Libyan air strikes are targeting militants loyal to warlord Khalifa Haftar after they fled a key airbase retaken by the government, Anadolu news agency reported.
The Libyan army on Monday retook the strategic Al Watiya airbase, which was under Haftar’s control since 2014.
A Libyan official said the government’s regaining control of the airbase was the end of Haftar's “coup plot”.
*)Limited data on US coronavirus vaccine shows early promise
Early data from Moderna’s coronavirus vaccine shows it produced protective antibodies in eight healthy volunteers.
The results from a safety trial in March offer an early glimmer of hope that the vaccine could provide protection against the virus.
Moderna expects to start a larger late-stage trial for the vaccine in July.
*)Lesotho premier steps down over wife's alleged murder
Lesotho's embattled Prime Minister Thomas Thabane announced his resignation over his first wife's alleged murder.
The announcement ends months of political uncertainty gripping the African kingdom since he was accused of being an accomplice in the murder.
His coalition was disbanded in parliament last week, and a new government is due to be installed on May 22.
And finally…
*)Rio delivers pet companions to Brazilians in isolation
An animal shelter in Rio de Janeiro has launched a pet delivery service for residents who seek a furry friend to pass the long days in isolation.
Rio's undersecretary for animal welfare Roberto de Paula said the demand for animal companions has been surging.
The shelter has delivered more than 50 pets since early April.
*) Is Brazil becoming the world’s next Covid-19 hotspot?
Brazil is becoming a new epicentre for novel coronavirus infections, as its number of cases pass 241,000 and deaths top 16,000.
The Latin American nation is now among the world’s top five countries with the highest number of Covid-19 cases.
The pandemic has so far infected more than 4.8 million people worldwide and killed over 316,000.
*) Car bomb kills at least five in east Afghanistan
In Afghanistan, a car bomb targeting an intelligence service base has killed at least five people and wounded 40 others.
The Taliban-claimed attack in Ghazni province comes hours after President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing deal.
The agreement ends a bitter months-long feud that plunged the country into a political crisis.
*) Deaths from coronavirus-like symptoms surge in Yemen's Aden
Yemen’s medics have reported a surge in the number of deaths at least five times higher than normal in the port city of Aden.
This has ignited fears that Covid-19 is spreading unhindered in the port city of the war-torn country.
Six years of war against the Houthi rebels have left Yemen’s authorities ill-equipped to control the spread of Covid-19.
*) Iran complains to UN over US threat on Venezuela shipment
Iran has complained to the United Nations over possible measures the United States could take against an Iranian fuel shipment to Venezuela.
Iran also summoned the Swiss ambassador in Tehran, who represents US interests in the Islamic Republic.
Tehran’s reaction follows reports that the US was considering steps in response to Iran's shipment of fuel to crisis-stricken Venezuela.
And finally…
*) Jordan's first Air Jordan sneakers sold for record $560,000
NBA legend Michael Jordan's autographed sneakers from his rookie season have fetched a record $560,000 in an online auction.
Like most of Jordan's basketball shoes, they are a mismatched pair, size 13 on the left and size 13.5 on the right.
The shoes were sold by collector Jordan Geller, the founder of the sneaker museum Shoezeum in Las Vegas.
*) 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.
Taliban bomb attack kills five in Afghanistan and online games trend as venues for concerts
*)At least five people die in Afghanistan bombing
At least five people have been killed in a bomb blast in Afghanistan's Gardez city.
The Taliban-claimed truck bombing comes a day after President Ashraf Ghani ordered the military to “resume operations against the enemy”.
Afghanistan is experiencing a spike in terror attacks, a potential setback to peace plans in the war-ravaged nation.
*)Coronavirus 'may never go away' – WHO
The coronavirus that causes Covid-19 could become endemic like HIV, the World Health Organization warned.
“This disease may settle into a long problem, or it may not," WHO emergencies expert Dr Mike Ryan said at an online briefing.
Though the world has some control over how it copes with the disease it requires a massive effort, he said, if a vaccine is found.
*)Clashes in Kashmir after troops kill civilian in 'cold blood'
Soldiers fatally shot a young man at a checkpoint in India-administered Kashmir, triggering fresh protests against New Delhi.
India's paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force said the man was driving a car and ignored signals to stop at two checkpoints.
The victim's uncle, a police officer who was also travelling with him, said his nephew was killed by troops in "cold-blooded" murder.
*)French parliament adopts controversial online hate speech bill
French lawmakers approved a controversial bill to ban hate speech on social media, a measure dismissed as censorship by detractors.
The law obliges platforms and search engines to remove offensive content within 24 hours or risk a fine of up to $1.35 million.
Critics say the proposal will make Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple the custodians of freedom of expression.
And finally…
*)In pandemic times, the gaming world is becoming a (concert) stage
With concerts on hold amid coronavirus lockdowns, the trend of artists becoming animated performers is gaining momentum.
The ultra-popular video game Fortnite morphed rapper Travis Scott into a massive psychedelic spaceman performing in a celestial dreamscape.
According to the platform, more than 27.7 million unique players participated in the show’s premiere and four encore presentations.
Offensive operations to resume in Afghanistan and Twitter employees might work from home forever
*)Afghan forces to resume offensive after infants, mourners attacked
Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani has ordered the country’s security forces to resume offensives after attacks on a hospital and a funeral.
At least 40 people, including newborn babies and nurses, were killed in two separate attacks in Kabul and Nangarhar province.
The Daesh terrorist group has claimed responsibility for both attacks.
*)Turkey lambasts joint declaration on Eastern Mediterranean
Ankara criticised a declaration signed by Greece, Egypt, France, the Greek Cypriot administration and the UAE over Turkey’s activities in the Eastern Mediterranean and in Libya.
Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Hami Aksoy said the five countries were pursuing regional chaos and instability in the area.
He added that they were sacrificing Libyans’ hope for democracy for the reckless aggression of dictators.
*)US virus expert warns of dangers as countries reopen
Top US health official Anthony Fauci warned that ending lockdowns too quickly could trigger uncontrollable new outbreaks.
Opening up continues despite the toll spiking in some of the world's most populated countries, with Brazil, Russia and the US all reporting bad news.
Concerns were compounded by Fauci's warning to Congress that a run of 14 days with drop in cases was a vital first step before lifting lockdowns.
*)FBI accidentally reveals Saudi diplomat linked to 9/11
The FBI accidentally disclosed the name of a Saudi diplomat suspected of aiding two Al Qaeda hijackers in the 9/11 attacks.
Mussaed Ahmed al Jarrah was mistakenly named in a declaration by an FBI official in response to a lawsuit by families of 9/11 victims.
Al Jarrah was a mid-level Saudi foreign ministry official assigned to the Saudi embassy in Washington, DC in 1999 and 2000.
And finally…
*)Twitter says many employees may work remotely 'forever'
Twitter says it has told its employees that they will be allowed to permanently work from home.
The social media giant also said it is unlikely to open its offices before September.
The company said it was among the first to move to telework as a result of the health crisis and that it will continue to adopt that policy indefinitely.
South Korea, China and Germany begin easing Covid-19 restrictions despite small upticks in cases and museum in London aims to remember life under lockdown
*)As restrictions ease, governments worry Covid1-9 second wave
Countries are struggling to strike a balance between public and economic health as they reopen aspects of life closed to counter Covid-19.
South Korea, Singapore and China are looking at setbacks in their fight against the novel coronavirus after loosening restrictions.
In Europe, France and Spain are enjoying a relaxation of restrictions, as Britain faces a longer lockdown after clocking the world’s second-highest Covid-19 death toll.
*)At least 19 dead as Iranian vessel hit by friendly fire
An Iranian destroyer mistakenly shot and sank a second Iranian vessel, killing at least 19 people and injuring 15 others.
A missile was fired from the Jamaran and accidentally struck the Konarak during a naval exercise in the Persian Gulf.
The Konarak, a general purpose vessel, had been putting targets out in the water for other ships to fire upon.
*)Anti-government rallies resume in Iraq
Anti-government rallies seeking early polls and accountability have resumed in Iraq ending months of relative calm.
Clashes between security personnel and protesters were reported just days after Prime Minister Mustafa al Kadhimi's government came to power.
The protests first erupted in October, demanding an end to corruption and unemployment and an overhaul of the ruling class.
*)Poland parliament speaker gets 14 days to set polling date
Poland's top electoral body gave the speaker of parliament 14 days to set a new date for presidential elections.
The election must be held within 60 days of this announcement, or by late July, according to the resolution by the State Electoral Commission.
The voting was initially scheduled for last week but was suspended amid debate over how it could be done during the pandemic.
And finally…
*)London museum preserves lockdown life
The global coronavirus pandemic is still raging but museums are already gathering testimony and objects to remember life under lockdown.
The Museum of London has launched an appeal for Londoners to donate items that reflect their lives during the outbreak.
Items collected so far include a makeshift rattle used to accompany the weekly "clap for carers" across the country.
*)Ahmaud Arbery’s killers arrested
A white ex-police officer and his son have been arrested for murdering unarmed black jogger Ahmaud Arbery in the US state of Georgia.
The arrest was made after a video emerged showing 25-year-old Arbery was hunted down while he was jogging and shot to death by the pair on February 23.
Voices from around the world joined Arbery's family in calling the killing a lynching and demanded the pair be convicted.
*)Case against former Trump aide dropped
The US Department of Justice has dropped its criminal case against President Donald Trump's former national security advisor, Michael Flynn.
Flynn was seeking to withdraw his 2017 guilty plea in which he admitted lying to the FBI about conversations with Russia's ambassador to the US.
He was one of several former Trump aides caught up in Robert Mueller's inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 US election.
*)Italy condemns attack by Libyan warlord
Italy has condemned an attack on Libya's capital Tripoli by warlord Khalifa Haftar.
His militia fired rockets at the city's port, its international airport and a coastal road where Italy's embassy is located.
*)At least over five civilians were killed in the attack.
UN appeals for $6.7B to help poor countries fight Covid-19
The UN is calling on governments, companies and billionaires to contribute to a $6.7 billion fund to help vulnerable countries fight the coronavirus.
It warns that failure to help could lead to a hunger pandemic, famine, riots and more conflict.
UN humanitarian chief Mark Lowcock said the peak of the pandemic isn’t expected to hit the world’s poorest countries for another three to six months.
And finally…
*)Supermoon brings brightness to an Earth filled with sadness
The last Supermoon of 2020 rose to provide a stunning spectacle.
The phenomenon occurs when a full moon is within 10 percent of its closest distance to Earth.
If you missed it, the next Supermoon will rise again in summer 2021.
*)Trump: Coronavirus worse for US than Pearl Harbor, 9/11
US President Donald Trump says fallout from the coronavirus pandemic has hit America worse than Pearl Harbor and 9/11.
Trump again lashed out at China, saying the global crisis could have been prevented.
The US has over 1.2 million Covid-19 cases and more than 74,000 fatalities so far.
*)Venezuela’s Maduro says US plotted to overthrow him
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro appeared on national TV, showing the passports of two US mercenaries accused of being part of an attempted coup.
Venezuelan state TV also showed one mercenary saying he was instructed to seize control of Caracas airport and take Maduro to the US.
The US has denied involvement and says it will do everything it can t secure the release of its citizens.
*)Iraq lawmakers approve new government
Mustafa Kadhemi took office as Iraq's new prime minister after breaking months of political deadlock.
Kadhemi will begin his term without a full cabinet after several ministerial candidates were rejected.
Former PM Adel Abdul Mahdi resigned last year during widespread anti-government protests.
*)Kenya floods kill at least 194
Floods and landslides killed nearly 200 people in western Kenya and displaced 100,000, while damaging critical infrastructure.
High water levels at two dams forced the evacuation of villagers at risk, officials said.
Kenya's meteorological department says heavy rain is expected to continue in already hard-hit areas in coming weeks.
And finally…
*)Banksy honours frontline nurses in new piece
Banksy’s new artwork was unveiled on the wall of a corridor of University Hospital Southampton in south England.
It shows a boy in dungarees playing with the figurine of a nurse in a superhero cape.
The painting was also verified by the anonymous street artist on his Instagram account.
*)Trump pushes for reopening US even as daily death toll spikes
President Donald Trump is pushing for economic reopening as the daily US death toll spiked.
Trump made these comments during a visit to a mask-making factory in Arizona where he was seen not wearing a mask.
And in the latest sign of the Trump administration slowing down its fight against Covid-19, the White House is set to disband the emergency task force handling the outbreak.
*)Turkey sends medical aid to Ramallah and Gaza to fight virus
Turkey has sent medical supplies to Palestine to help in its fight against Covid-19.
The Palestinian Health Authority received test kits and other equipment which will be sent on to Ramallah and Gaza.
Turkey has sent Covid-19 assistance to almost 60 countries since the start of the outbreak.
*)Philippines closes leading network critical of Duterte
The Philippine government has ordered the country's largest TV network to shut its doors.
Media giant ABS-CBN signed off on Tuesday evening and now awaits licence renewal by a parliament dominated by President Duterte's supporters.
Duterte has repeatedly threatened ABS-CBN’s franchise, after the channel angered him by refusing to air his campaign commercials in 2016.
*)Somalia investigates Kenya aid plane crash
Somalia has launched an investigation into a Kenyan plane crash in the southern part of the country, killing all six people on board.
The plane was carrying coronavirus aid supplies when it crashed in Baidoa, Somalia on Monday.
Somali officials declined to speculate on the cause of the crash, but a witness at the airfield said the plane appeared to have been shot down.
And finally…
*)Movie star Tom Cruise set to shoot feature film in space
Tom Cruise is heading into orbit for his most ambitious project yet, the first ever feature film set in space.
NASA confirmed the plan to send Cruise to the International Space Station.
Tweeting about the project, NASA administrator Jim Brindestine said there is a need for more popular media about space to inspire future generations.
Cruise is rumoured to be in talks with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk to make the film.
*)Italy eases lockdown as global toll crosses 250,000
Life has somewhat resumed in Italy after millions of people were allowed to return to work amid lockdown-easing measures.
Under the new rules, 4.5 million Italians can clock back in, relatives can reunite and more importantly for some, cafes will reopen for takeaway services.
Even as many countries partially lifted their lockdowns after successfully quelling the spread of the virus, the global death toll from Covid-19 climbed past 250,000.
*)Turkey's Erdogan announces first steps past coronavirus
Turkey will gradually take new steps to start post-coronavirus normalisation, the nation’s president announced.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan said travel restrictions will first be lifted from seven cities, namely Antalya, Aydin, Erzurum, Hatay, Malatya, Mersin and Mugla.
The country will also reopen hair salons and shopping malls on May 11.
*)New York Times leads the way at 2020 Pulitzers
The New York Times picked up the most awards as the 2020 Pulitzer Prize winners were announced virtually on Monday night.
The Times collected three awards, including for an investigative report into New York City’s taxi industry and for a series on Russian President Putin.
Amongst other winners, Reuters took home the breaking news photography award for Hong Kong protest pictures and The Washington Post for explanatory reporting on the effects of extreme temperatures on the planet.
*)Venezuela says two US citizens among those nabbed after beach raid
Venezuelan security forces arrested eight people, including two alleged US citizens, following a beach invasion.
The raid aimed at capturing socialist President Nicolas Maduro.
A video of a detained Venezuelan saying two US citizens were among those nabbed was posted on Twitter and broadcast on local TV.
And finally…
*)Nicolas Cage to star in 'Tiger King' series
Nicolas Cage will star in a scripted television series about flamboyant Tiger King zookeeper Joe Exotic, Cage’s publicist said.
The Oscar-winning US actor will also executive-produce the show, a wildly popular docuseries that recently shot to fame.
"Tiger King" has been viewed a reported 34 million times in just 10 days following its release in March.
*)New Zealand reports no new Covid-19 cases
New Zealand has recorded no new cases of the coronavirus for the first time since March 16.
Last week the Pacific nation ended a strict lockdown that helped contain the outbreak.
The death toll remains 20 while the number of infected people stands at 1,487, 86 percent of them now recovered.
*)Pompeo backs Trump on virus coming from China lab
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is backing his boss’s claims that the Covid-19 virus originated in a lab in China’s Wuhan.
But their claims contradict the US intelligence community’s findings – that there is no evidence the virus was man made or genetically modified.
The Wuhan claims come amid reports President Donald Trump ignored warnings in January from top US spy agencies that Covid-19 could become a global pandemic.
*)Venezuela foils attack by boat on main port city
Venezuela says it foiled an attempt by a group of armed men to invade the country by boat on Sunday.
Authorities say eight of the attackers have been killed. Two attackers have been arrested and are being interrogated.
Socialist party chief Diosdado Cabello says the attack was carried out by neighbouring Colombia with US support to oust President Nicolas Maduro.
*)Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
Amnesty International says journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent.
A new report by the rights group highlights 37 cases of journalists detained as part of the government's crackdown on press freedoms.
Many of the journalists are charged with spreading false news or misusing social media under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law, expanded to include dissent.
And finally…
*)Broadway struggles to weather Covid-19 crisis
New York's Broadway theatres fear the show will not go on without public funding to weather the Covid-19 crisis.
Celebrated theatres around Times Square normally make around $33 million a week in tickets sales.
Now, nothing.
Many theatre professionals are on jobless benefits and it seems they will only get back to work if Broadway reopens in September as planned.
*)Trump says evidence ties virus to Wuhan lab
US President Donald Trump has launched another blistering attack on China, blaming it for the coronavirus pandemic.
Trump claims he's seen evidence linking the virus to a lab in Wuhan and that an investigation into its origin is underway.
Hours earlier, the US National Intelligence agency contradicted conspiracy theories, saying the virus was not man-made or genetically modified.
*)Countrywide protests in Lebanon set to continue
Lebanon says it's seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund to tackle rising inflation.
More anti-government demonstrations are expected across the country over the economic crisis, which has deepened because of the coronavirus.
In Tripoli, people are defying lockdown restrictions to protest and to go to work.
*)South Africa allows some businesses to reopen
Around 1.5 million South Africans have returned to work as some restrictions are relaxed across the country.
Shops will be reopened and restaurants will be able to provide take away service.
The country has the highest number of cases on the continent and was under a strict lockdown for over a month.
*)Millions in China travel for Labour Day holiday
More than 100 million people in China are expected to travel across the country for the five-day labour day holiday.
China relaxed its quarantine measures as its coronavirus cases dwindle.
The relaxation means travellers won't need to quarantine themselves for two weeks when they return.
And finally…
*)Animal adoptions rise in Moscow
Staff at Russia's Odin Animal Shelter say 78 dogs and cats have been adopted.
The shelter started an online promotion during Moscow's coronavirus lockdown.
Many new owners say they had always wanted a pet but had only managed to find the time to welcome a new animal into their homes during the lockdown.
*)US says remdesivir shows ‘clear-cut’ effect in treating coronavirus
For the first time since Covid-19 killed more than 220,000 people, one drug is giving doctors some hope of improving outcomes in Covid-19 patients.
Covid-19 patients who took the antiviral remdesivir recovered about 30 percent faster than those on a placebo, results from a clinical trial showed.
The New York Times reported US drug regulators may announce their decision to allow emergency use of the drug as soon as this week.
*)Khalifa Haftar’s illegal militia halts fighting in Libya after setbacks
A militia loyal to Libya's warlord Khalifa Haftar announced a unilateral ceasefire for the month of Ramadan after suffering military setbacks.
A militia spokesman said the ceasefire came at the request of the international community and "friendly countries".
There was no immediate response from the UN-backed government in Tripoli to the militia's ceasefire declaration.
*)Germany designates Lebanon’s Hezbollah a 'terror organisation'
Germany has banned Hezbollah activity on its soil and designated it a terrorist organisation.
"Interior Minister Horst Seehofer has banned the terrorist organisation Hezbollah in Germany," a ministry spokesman said on Twitter.
Germany had previously distinguished between Lebanon group Hezbollah's political arm and its military units.
*)Number of Covid-19 patients who recovered exceeds 1 million
More than one million people have recovered from the coronavirus worldwide, according to US-based tracker Worldometer.
The US, which has the most cases, also has the highest number of recoveries, followed by Spain and Germany.
Covid-19 has infected more than 3,200,000 people and killed over 228,000 since the first known outbreak started in China’s Wuhan in 2019. And finally…
*)New York's homeless flock to empty subway trains
New York leaders have pledged to take action as homeless people shelter in subway trains abandoned during the coronavirus crisis. * Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered the transportation authority to scrub trains daily so essential workers can commute without worries of infection.
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced partially closure of stations to allow authorities to remove the homeless and connect them with shelters, though it is unclear if any have space to take in more people.
*)US Covid-19 death toll surpasses that of Vietnam war
The US coronavirus death toll has crossed 59,000 on Tuesday; that’s more than the number of American lives lost in the Vietnam War.
US military involvement in Vietnam killed at least 58,220.
In addition to exceeding the Vietnam War toll, the US toll for Covid-19 also tops the number of annual deaths from the flu in recent years.
*)Suicide bomber kills three, wounds 15 in Kabul
A suicide bombing in Kabul province, not far from Afghanistan's capital, has killed three people and wounded 15.
The suicide bomber was among civilians when he detonated his explosives in Char Asiab district of Kabul.
A UN report this week said violence in Afghanistan has gone up in the first three months of 2020 after the signing of the Taliban-US peace deal.
*)Bomb blast in Afrin kills at least 40 people
At least 40 civilians were killed, including 11 children, when a bomb detonated on an oil tanker in the northern Syrian town of Afrin on Tuesday.
The YPG/PKK attack occurred in a crowded area in Afrin’s centre, Turkey’s Defence Ministry said on Twitter.
Turkey's military and allied Syrian opposition forces seized Afrin from the YPG in March 2018 in a major military offensive.
*)US panel wants India on religious freedom blacklist
A US government panel has called for India to be put on a religious freedom blacklist after a "drastic" downturn under PM Narendra Modi.
Its annual report said India should join the ranks of "countries of particular concern" which are subject to sanctions if they do not improve.
It called on the US to impose punitive measures, including visa bans, on Indian officials who also provide funding to groups that incite hate speech.
And finally…
*)Coronavirus brews trouble for tea amid disrupted supply
The coronavirus outbreak is causing a rare stir in the usually staid global tea market, with labour lockdowns stifling supplies.
Just five countries – China, India, Kenya, Sri Lanka and Vietnam – account for 82 percent of global tea exports.
However, strict restrictions to contain the coronavirus pandemic have disrupted the key leaf-picking season.
*)Cases in US cross 1M mark
Covid-19 cases in the US crossed the one million mark.
More than 56,000 people have died from the virus in the country.
Many US states continue to ease restrictions in a bid to reopen their economies despite the spiralling crisis.
*)Turkey sends medical aid to US
Turkey has sent medical equipment to the United States to help in its efforts to combat Covid-19.
A Turkish military cargo plane left for the US carrying 500,000 surgical masks, 40,000 hazmat suits and other gear.
Turkey has so far delivered aid to at least 57 countries to help fight the pandemic.
*)Hundreds protest in Lebanon over ailing economy
Clashes erupted in Lebanon as hundreds protested over a deteriorating economy.
The army said several bank branches were set on fire, and a molotov cocktail was tossed at a military vehicle.
The Red Cross said it had transported three people to the hospital and treated others at the scene.
*)US admits to killing civilians during Somalia air strike
The US military has admitted to killing two civilians and injuring three others during an air strike in Somalia last year.
According to US Africa Command, the strike was carried out against Al Shabab terror group in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region.
The civilian deaths, AFRICOM said, occurred as a result of US or Al Shabab munitions that exploded during the strike.
And finally…
*)Michelle Obama's book tour to air on Netflix
Michelle Obama’s tour to promote her best-selling 2018 memoir “Becoming”, has been turned into a documentary film for Netflix.
It's a behind-the-scenes look at the former first lady’s 34-city tour and will be released on May 6.
Former US president Barack Obama and Michelle signed a multimillion-dollar deal in 2018 to produce content for Netflix.
*)More US states reopen economies
More US states are gradually easing lockdowns, despite warnings from health officials that it could cause a second wave of Covid-19 infections.
The decision comes as over 26 million people in the US seek unemployment protection across several states.
Meanwhile, New York says hospitalisations and new cases continue to decline across the state.
*)New Zealand eases restrictions
New Zealanders will be allowed to go fishing, surfing, hunting and hiking this week for the first time in more than a month as the country begins to ease restrictions.
Around 400,000 people will return to work, but shops and restaurants will remain closed as social restrictions remain in place.
The country implemented the strictest lockdown in the world which helped stop the spread.
*)Italy to ease lockdown measures on May 4
Italy will also ease its lockdown on May 4.
It comes as the country recorded its lowest daily death toll since mid-March.
Factories, building sites, parks and restaurants will reopen and limited family visits will be allowed, but schools will remain shut.
*)Israel to annex parts of occupied West Bank in coming months
Israel is confident it will get US approval to annex large parts of the occupied West Bank in the coming months.
Palestinians are expressing outrage at Israel's plans to further consolidate its control on land it has been occupying since 1967.
Israel will hold cabinet discussions on extending its sovereignty to dozens of settlements deemed illegal under the international law.
And finally…
*)Former Pakistan women's cricket captain retires
Former Pakistan women team's captain Sana Mir retired from international cricket over the weekend.
Mir’s earned numerous accolades and titles throughout her career, such as the most successful female spinner in ODI history.
The 34-year-old is one of only nine women cricketers to have taken 100 wickets and scored 1,000 runs in ODI matches.
US House passes a $484B Covid-19 stimulus bill against job losses and a bullied eight-year-old boy gets mail – from Tom Hanks
*) US House passes $484 bln stimulus as job losses soar
The US Congress unanimously passed a $484 billion stimulus for coronavirus spending.
Covid-19 has so far claimed almost 50,000 lives and one out of six jobs in the US, the world's worst-affected country.
Around 26.4 million US workers have filed for jobless claims since mid-March.
*)German court opens first Syria torture trial
A German court has opened what lawyers say is the first trial for war crimes by Syrian regime leader Bashar al Assad’s agents.
Charges of torture and sexual assault were read out against two suspected members of Assad's security services.
Campaigners hailed the process as a first step towards justice for thousands of Syrians tortured in regime facilities.
*)Ramadan begins amid coronavirus lockdown
Islam's holiest month Ramadan begins today, or on Saturday in some countries, amid the coronavirus pandemic.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast during the day and then congregate for prayers and communal meals at night.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, millions of Muslims won’t be able to travel to home for Eid al Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan.
*)Experimental virus drug Remdesivir failed in human trial
The experimental coronavirus treatment Remdesivir has failed in its first randomised clinical trial, according to results released inadvertently.
A draft summary went online briefly on the World Health Organization website and was later deleted.
But Gilead Sciences, the company behind the medicine, disputed how the post had characterised the findings, saying the data showed a "potential benefit".
And finally…
*)Tom Hanks writes to bullied boy called ‘Corona’
A bullied Australian boy named Corona gets mail – from Tom Hanks. Hanks and Rita Wilson, his wife, contracted Covid-19 in Australia when the eight-year-old boy, Corona De Vries, sent a letter asking after their health.
The boy wrote he was upset because kids at school called him the “coronavirus”.
Hanks responded with words of encouragement, typed out on a Corona bran typewriter which he gifted the boy.
WHO says ‘coronavirus will be with us for a long time’ and as people stay home, Earth turns wilder and cleaner
*)Coronavirus will be with us for a long time – WHO
The World Health Organization says the world has 'a long way to go' in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that most countries were still in the early stages of tackling the pandemic.
Some countries that thought they had the new coronavirus under control were witnessing a resurgence in cases, he said.
*)Trump says US will destroy Iranian gunboats if they ‘harass’ US ships
President Trump instructed the US Navy to "shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea".
The order came one week after small armed Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps speedboats reportedly swarmed around US Navy and Coast Guard ships in the northern Gulf.
While such encounters had only occasionally occurred a few years ago and had since stopped, this incident comes at a time of increased tensions between the two countries.
*)Dismissed US vaccines agency chief questions decision
The dismissed head of the US vaccine agency has accused President Donald Trump’s administration of unfair treatment.
Doctor Rick Bright believes he was demoted on Tuesday for opposing the chloroquine treatment promoted by President Donald Trump.
In a statement, he said he was against promoting drugs by companies with political connections.
*)Russia’s Wagner used chemical weapon, Libya says
Russian private military contractor Wagner had carried out a chemical attack in Libya, Tripoli's interior minister said.
Fathi Bashagha said Wagner mercenaries used nerve agent against forces of Libya’s GNA in southern Tripoli.
Russia’s Wagner Group is one of the most controversial groups among mercenaries backing warlord Khalifa Haftar in Libya..
And finally…
*)As people stay home, Earth turns wilder and cleaner
As people across the globe stay home to stop the spread of the new coronavirus, the air has cleaned up, albeit temporarily.
Coyotes, pumas and other wildlife on urban streets are becoming video social media staples.
Pollution-filled big cities around the globe are seeing a decrease in nitrogen dioxide, smog and tiny particles.
*)World is at risk of famines of 'biblical proportions'
The UN says the world is at risk of widespread famine of “biblical proportions” due to the coronavirus pandemic.
More than 250 million are at risk of suffering from hunger, the report said.
The crisis could be the worst humanitarian catastrophe since World War II, the UN's food relief agency says, warning urgent action is needed before people starve.
*)US immigration suspension to last 60 days
President Donald Trump will stop immigration to the US for the next 60 days for those seeking permanent entry.
Trump hailed the move as putting Americans first as unemployment numbers surge.
Economists warn the unemployment rate could reach historic highs this month.
*)Lebanon to farm cannabis to export
The Lebanon Parliament has approved the farming of cannabis, but only for medicinal use.
Lawmakers say the plan is to export medicines produced from the plant in a bid to earn revenue to boost their ailing economy.
Citizens have been protesting against dire economic straits as the country sees double-digit inflation.
*)Iraq relaxes restrictions for Ramadan
With Ramadan a few days away, Iraq has relaxed some restrictions a month after a Covid-19 lockdown.
Some shops and businesses were allowed to reopen to allow people to prepare for Islam's month of fasting.
A curfew will still be in place overnight Sunday through Thursday and for 24 hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
And finally…
*)50th anniversary of Earth Day
Today is Earth Day, designed to raise public awareness about the environment and inspire action to protect it.
The first Earth Day took place in 1970 when on April 22, millions in the US took to the streets to protest environmental ignorance and demand a new way forward.
Activists are urging the 50th anniversary be observed through apps, webinars and digital campaigns, in line with coronavirus restrictions.
*)Trump to temporarily suspend immigration to US
President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to temporarily suspend immigration to the US.
He says this is in effort to stop the spread of Covid-19.
His decision is despite the coronavirus disease killing more than 42,000 people in the US, more than any other country in the world.
*)US oil prices bounce back
US crude oil prices rebounded after falling below zero dollars for the first time in history.
The price of crude that would be delivered in May is now hovering at around one dollar a barrel.
The Covid-19 outbreak has caused the biggest supply and demand disparity in history, leaving the world without enough capacity to store it.
*)Brazil's president defends joining anti-lockdown protests
Brazil's president says he wants social isolation policies to end this week, a day after he defied stay-at-home orders to attend an anti-lockdown protest.
Jair Bolsonaro says he wants lockdown restrictions peeled back and supports military intervention.
His comments go directly against Brazil’s health ministry, which expects the peak of the pandemic between May and June.
*)Virgin Australia collapses
Virgin Australia has become the first commercial airliner to collapse under the coronavirus pandemic.
It entered voluntary administration and is seeking new investors or buyers after failing to secure a government bailout package.
Meanwhile, Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson is hoping to secure a UK government bailout for Virgin Atlantic.
And finally…
*)No celebrations as Britain's Queen Elizabeth turns 94
Britain's Queen Elizabeth has turned 94 today.
But the coronavirus lockdown means there will be little fanfare to mark the occasion, with all events being cancelled.
Royal events are traditionally marked by ceremonial gun salutes, but the queen cancelled these and other celebrations, citing current circumstances.
*)At least 16 killed in Canada's deadliest shooting rampage
A man disguised as a police officer went on a shooting rampage at a petrol station in Canada's Nova Scotia, killing at least 16 people.
Officials say the shooter is also dead, and a police officer was among those killed.
It's the deadliest mass shooting in Canada’s history, according to authorities.
*)Protesters in several US states call for lifting lockdowns
Protesters in several US states held rallies against Covid-19 measures which have shuttered businesses and decimated the economy.
The US is the current epicentre of the pandemic, with over 763,000 infections and more than 40,000 deaths.
The protesters are demanding restrictions be lifted and governors reopen economies that have been shut down.
*)HRW accuses Burkina Faso of killing of 31 unarmed civilians
Human Rights Watch says Burkina Faso's security forces allegedly executed 31 unarmed detainees in the northern town of Djibo.
Calling for an official inquiry, the rights group said the executions took place under the pretense of a counterterrorism operation.
Human Rights Watch says the actions of the Burkina Faso security forces may amount to war crimes and could fuel further atrocities.
*)Planet Earth gets some much-needed rest during lockdown
As the coronavirus pandemic proves deadly for humans, an unexpected outcome is playing out for planet Earth.
Environmental conditions have improved since Covid-19 shut down factories, cancelled flights and closed borders as countries attempt to contain the virus.
Smog that covered cities like New Delhi, Milan, Beijing and Madrid has also cleared.
And finally…
*)‘The times they are a-changin’ handwritten lyrics on sale
Bob Dylan's handwritten lyrics for 'The times they are a-changin' are up for sale for $2.2 million.
Auctioneers say the private sale is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The track is considered as one of the most iconic protest songs of the 1960s.
*)China’s Wuhan revises coronavirus death toll and case numbers
China's Wuhan, where the virus causing Covid-19 is believed to have emerged, has revised its death toll from 1,290 to 3,860.
The number of infections has also been increased to just over 50,000.
China’s state media explained the revision was due to medical facilities being overwhelmed at the peak of the outbreak.
*)Global economies take a hammering
Covid-19 continues to devastate global trade as major economies remain shut.
A record 22 million people applied for unemployment aid in the US, the world's largest economy, since the start of the outbreak.
China, the world’s second-largest economy, is seeing its first economic contraction since the 1990s.
*)Fire kills 14 people at refugee camp in northeast Nigeria
In Nigeria, at least 14 people were killed and dozens injured in a fire at a camp for internally displaced persons.
The camp hosts more than 30,000 civilians who fled Boko Haram attacks.
President Muhammadu Buhari described the fire at the camp as "extremely horrifying".
*)Facebook to warn users who ‘like’ coronavirus hoaxes
Facebook will soon let you know if you’ve shared or interacted with coronavirus misinformation on its platform.
The move is the latest in a string of aggressive efforts by the social media giant to stop an outbreak of viral falsehoods.
Other measures taken by Facebook, Google and Twitter include stricter rules, altered algorithms and thousands of fact checks.
And finally…
*)ISS crew returns from space after more than 200 days
Three astronauts have returned after 205 days to an Earth very different from the one they left last year.
The International Space Station crew lifted off long before the coronavirus pandemic changed life on Earth as they knew it.
The Soyuz capsule landed in Kazakhstan after a three-hour-long journey.
*) Nearly 400 Rohingya rescued, dozens die after two months at sea
Almost 400 Rohingya Muslims have been rescued after being adrift on a boat for two months.
The boat, which had failed to reach Malaysia, was rescued by the Bangladesh Coast Guard.
More than two dozen refugees on board had died of starvation.
*) Libya announces 10-day curfew starting Friday
Libya's internationally-recognised government has announced a 10-day curfew to contain the spread of Covid-19 amid civil war.
Only people wearing masks will be allowed out to buy essentials in a limited number of hours every day starting this Friday.
Prime Minister Fayez al Sarraj has also accused warlord Khalifa Haftar and his illegal militia of using the pandemic to launch a new armed offensive.
*) Costa Rican farmers donate crops to struggling families
Farmers in Costa Rica have been hit by a halt in exports due to flight and trade restrictions.
But instead of destroying their crops due to the drop in demand, the farmers are donating them to families in need.
Volunteers help distribute the produce to people left unemployed or whose working hours have been reduced due to Covid-19 restrictions.
*)Ecuador launches door-to-door health and food programme
Ecuador has launched a door-to-door health and food delivery programme as part of its efforts to give aid to those affected by shutdowns.
Government workers have delivered food to residents in the port city of Guayaquil.
The city is the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in South America.
And finally…
*) Taiwan social distancing app gives proximity alerts to users
Social distancing in Taiwan could get a bit easier thanks to a new app.
Government has developed an app that uses Bluetooth to alert people if they are too close to someone else.
It is currently being tested and will be available next month.
*)Global Covid-19 infections beyond 2 million
Two million people around the world are now infected with Covid-19. Separately, around half a million have fully recovered.
Over 126,000 people have died from the disease, which first broke out in Wuhan, China.
*)South Korea heads to the polls
Polls have opened in South Korea for the parliamentary elections.
Authorities are taking measures for a safe voting process amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Temperatures of voters will be checked and they are required to wear masks and gloves while maintaining a metre distance between each other.
*)IMF warns of global financial crisis
The UN said last month that workers around the world could lose as much as $3.4 trillion in wages by the end of 2020.
The International Monetary Fund forecasts the global economy will experience its steepest downturn since the Great Depression.
Its calculations show a three percent contraction in global growth this year, with a five percent growth rate in 2021.
*)Saudis get closer to buying Newcastle United
Saudi Arabia, fronted by British financier Amanda Staveley, has moved closer to buying English football club Newcastle United.
Media reports state the Saudi group will take an 80 percent shareholding stake should the deal go through.
Media also reported that the asking price of $428.6 million has now dropped to $378.33 million.
And finally…
*)Global event to celebrate coronavirus workers
Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez and Oprah Winfrey will join a global telecast on April 18 that will recognise efforts of frontline workers.
The "One World Together At Home" event will also include appearances by major sports stars, dozens of singers, actors and social media influencers.
The event will be broadcast on multiple international television networks.
*)Trump and governors face-off over reopening of economy
A row has broken out between US President Donald Trump and state governors over when to end lockdowns and re-open the economy.
Trump says he will make the decision, not the governors.
Meanwhile, Trump also went on an offensive over his health adviser’s assessment that the US could have done more to contain the virus outbreak.
*)IMF to provide debt relief to 25 countries
The International Monetary Fund has announced immediate debt relief for 25 low-income countries so they can fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Afghanistan, Yemen, Haiti and many African countries are among the first to benefit from the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust.
The IMF is also pushing to raise the amount available for relief to $1.4 billion to help poor countries divert funds to the health emergency.
*)Benny Gantz fails to form new Israeli government
The deadline has passed for Benny Gantz to form Israel’s next government.
It is believed the next likely step is for President Reuven Rivlin to ask the Knesset to nominate a candidate to become prime minister.
After being appointed as the speaker of the parliament last month, Gantz said he would seek an emergency unity alliance with Benjamin Netanyahu and his Likud Party, but there’s no news of any agreement.
*)Wildfires burn in Chernobyl exclusion zone
Emergency services in Ukraine are still battling wildfires that have been burning in the Chernobyl exclusion zone for more than a week.
More than 300 firefighters have been deployed, aided by water-bombing aircraft.
There are fears the fires could send toxic clouds across Europe.
And finally…
*)Panthers make McCaffrey highest-paid running back in NFL history
Carolina Panthers have made Christian McCaffrey the highest-paid running back in NFL history.
The $16-million-a-year deal eclipses Ezekiel Elliott's contract with the Dallas Cowboys that is worth $15 million per season.
The extension keeps 23-year-old McCaffrey tied to the Panthers through the 2025 season.
*)Fauci says US could have saved more lives with earlier action
Covid-19 has now killed and infected more people in the US than anywhere else in the world.
Top US infectious diseases expert, Dr Anthony Fauci, says more lives could've been saved if social distancing measures were introduced earlier.
The coronavirus disease has infected more than 560,000 people and killed just over 22,000 in the US.
*)Top oil producers agree on deal to cut output
Opec and oil-producing nations have come to an agreement to protect the oil price being hammered by Covid-19.
The deal will see only 10 million barrels produced per day for May and June, which is the biggest cut in Opec’s history.
The oil market is in deep crisis with Covid-19 and Saudi Arabia and Russia failing to agree on an emergency plan.
*)Tornadoes, storms hit US south
Strong storms pounded the US south, killing at least six people in Mississippi.
Up to 300 homes and other buildings were also damaged in Louisiana.
The US National Weather Service say strong winds were sweeping through other parts of Mississippi, and a tornado was spotted near the Alabama state line.
Mississippi declared a state of emergency after several tornadoes had struck the state.
*)Alarm over dozens of migrants missing in Mediterranean
Europe's coast guard agency is looking for a dinghy believed to be carrying dozens of migrants when it went missing after setting sail from Libya.
The UN’s refugee agency says it's very worried about the fate of what could be 85 migrants lost at sea.
A total of four boats left Libya, with one reaching Italy, the other two still at sea and a fourth missing.
And finally…
*)Medics gifted with Spring’s first tulips in Crimea
Spring has sprung in the northern hemisphere with flowers blooming in gardens everywhere.
But a beautiful exhibition of tulips at Yalta Botanical Gardens in Crimea didn't get an audience because of Covid-19 restrictions.
Staff decided to cut the flowers and give them to medics on the frontlines of the pandemic.
UN chief calls for Security Council unity over virus pandemic and a three-man crew successfully docks at the International Space Station
*) UN chief calls for Security Council unity over pandemic
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the Security Council to display unity as it met to discuss the global coronavirus pandemic.
Security Council members met through video conference after weeks of disagreements, especially between the US and China.
The virus has claimed more than 95,000 lives across the globe and infected more than 1.6 million people.
*)Spy chief named Iraq's third PM-designate this year
Iraqi President Barham Saleh has nominated spy chief Mustafa Kadhemi as the country's third prime minister-designate this year.
The move came moments after Kadhemi's predecessor, Adnan Zurfi, withdrew his candidacy due to "internal and external reasons".
Iraq is facing a budget crisis brought on by the collapse in world oil prices and the spread of Covid-19.
*)UN urges governments to tackle recession, scrap debt payment
More than 60 UN agencies and international organisations urged governments to tackle recession and scrap debt payment over the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Billions of people live in countries teetering on the brink of economic collapse", according to a UN task force.
In response to the crisis, global financial markets have witnessed heavy losses and intense volatility over the last month, it said.
More than one in 10, or close to 17 million US workers, have lost their jobs in just the past three weeks.
*)EU finance ministers agree on coronavirus rescue deal
EU finance ministers have agreed on a 550-billion dollar rescue deal for European countries hit hard by the coronavirus epidemic.
The bloc, meanwhile, put aside demands from Italy and France for pooled borrowing.
The breakthrough came after the Netherlands softened its position on demanding that any country in need deliver on governance targets.
And finally…
*)Three-man crew successfully docks at space station
Three astronauts flew to the International Space Station, leaving behind a planet overwhelmed by a virus pandemic.
There was little fanfare and no family members at the launch site to bid the Russian and American astronauts farewell.
But there was no social distancing as the astronauts floated into the space station one by one and embraced the three crew members already there.
*) Coronavirus pandemic continues its run
The US recorded its deadliest day yet from the novel coronavirus, with close to 2,000 deaths in a single day.
The virus has claimed more than 88,000 lives across the globe and infected more than 1.5 million people.
Some countries have started to contemplate an exit strategy and think about easing of restrictions imposed to curb the virus.
*) Saudi-led coalition declares coronavirus ceasefire in Yemen
The Saudi-led coalition fighting the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen announced that its forces would begin a ceasefire starting today.
The move could pave the way for the first direct peace talks between the two sides that have been at war for more than five years.
The two-week ceasefire came in response to UN calls to halt hostilities amid the coronavirus pandemic.
*) Taiwan protests WHO leader's accusations of racist campaign
Taiwan has protested accusations from the head of the World Health Organization that it condoned racist personal attacks on him.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had accused Taiwan's foreign ministry of being linked to a months-long campaign against him.
He added that since the emergence of Covid-19, he has been personally attacked, including receiving death threats and racist abuse.
*) Sanders drops US presidential bid, making Biden likely nominee
US Senator Bernie Sanders has suspended his presidential campaign.
The decision comes after the Democratic party’s establishment lined swiftly up behind rival Joe Biden.
The announcement clears the way for Biden to become the Democratic nominee to challenge incumbent Donald Trump in November.
And finally…
*) Elmo, Lin-Manuel Miranda team up for 'Sesame Street' special
"Sesame Street" is to air a special episode next week to reach out to young children who are confused about being stuck at home during the pandemic.
"Hamilton" creator Lin-Manuel Miranda and actors Anne Hathaway and Tracee Ellis Ross will be celebrity guests in the 30-minute episode.
In the show, the Muppets will find new ways to play and learn together through songs, games and silly dance breaks.
*)China lifts Wuhan travel ban
China’s Wuhan city, the first coronavirus epicentre, has ended a two-month lockdown after reporting only three cases in the past 21 days.
The rest of the world, however, is still scrambling to contain the virus, which has infected more than 1.42 million people and killed over 82,000.
With the exception of Germany, Europe is seeing somewhat of a downward trend in virus deaths. In the US, the death toll continues on an upward spike, with 12,500 deaths.
*)Boris Johnson spends second night in intensive care
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spent a second night in intensive care battling the coronavirus.
The prime minister's spokesman said his "condition is stable and he remains in intensive care for close monitoring".
The virus has infected more than 55,000 people across the UK and killed nearly 6,200 and health data experts say the worst is yet to come.
*)UN strikes back at Trump over WHO criticism
US President Donald Trump, who initially scoffed at the threat coronavirus posed, has accused the World Health Organization of getting it all wrong.
He said the WHO has been “very China-centric” and threatened to put a stop to US contributions to the body.
The UN rejected the criticism of the agency, saying the WHO has done “tremendous work” on Covid-19.
*)Taliban breaks off talks with Afghan government
The Taliban has pulled negotiators out of talks with the Afghan government over a prisoner swap.
The government has responded by accusing the Taliban of “making excuses” and sabotaging the peace process.
The two foes have been holding talks in Kabul since last week to try to finalise the prisoner exchange and pave way for "intra-Afghan" peace talks.
And finally…
*)Supermoon rises on a world battling Covid-19
The largest supermoon of 2020 rose in the night sky over countries and cities under lockdown over the deadly pandemic.
Stargazers still enjoyed the emergence of what is also referred to as a pink moon.
Supermoons occur when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth. It just so happens that this was also the last full moon of the year.
*)UK PM in intensive care as virus deaths slow in Europe
Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spent the night in intensive care after his Covid-19 symptoms intensified.
Johnson asked his Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to take charge where necessary.
Europe’s hardest-hit countries have reported declines in virus-related deaths and over in the US, deaths in New York appear to be stabilizing.
*)UN Security Council to hold first coronavirus talks
The UN Security Council will hold its first meeting on the coronavirus pandemic on Thursday.
It's not yet clear what form the meeting will take or what it could accomplish.
Last week, the UN General Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution calling for international cooperation in the fight against Covid-19.
*)Australian court quashes cardinal's sexual abuse convictions
Australia's highest court has unanimously cleared ex-Vatican treasurer George Pell of child sex abuse crimes.
Pell has been serving a six-year sentence on convictions of sexually assaulting two boys in 1996 in Melbourne.
The court found there was reasonable doubt surrounding the testimony of the main witness.
*)Cyclone hits Vanuatu amid coronavirus shutdown
Tropical Cyclone Harold has made landfall on the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu amid a state of emergency over coronavirus.
The cyclone approached Sanma province as the country bunkered down for the Category 5 storm.
There have been no reports of injuries so far.
And finally…
*)JK Rowling recovers from coronavirus symptoms
"Harry Potter" author JK Rowling says she has recovered from a suspected case of coronavirus after two weeks of illness.
Rowling shared a video of a breathing technique recommended by doctors that she said had helped her manage her worst symptoms.
Rowling last week announced “Harry Potter and the philosopher’s stone” would be free online throughout April to help children through the boredom of lockdowns.
US readies for Covid-19 pandemic’s 'Pearl Harbor' moment and a tiger tests positive for the disease
*)US braces for 'hardest' week
The novel coronavirus has infected virtually every corner of the planet, turning life upside down for the majority of humanity.
It has killed nearly 70,000 people with 1.275 million confirmed cases
The US with more than 335,000 cases has been hardest hit followed by Europe’s Spain, Italy, Germany and France.
*)Rwanda finds genocide grave
A mass grave which could contain about 30,000 bodies has been unearthed in Rwanda.
It is believed to be from the 1994 genocide in which 800,000 ethnic Tutsi, and Hutus who tried to protect them, were killed.
The country on Tuesday will mark the 26th anniversary of the genocide, primarily carried out by Hutu militias.
*)Turkey to minimise troop movements in Syria
Turkey said it would minimise its troop movements in operation zones in neighbouring Syria in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
Troops deployed in Syria can enter and exit the operation areas with the army chief’s permission only, the country’s defence ministry said.
Turkey launched Operation Peace Spring on October 9 to eliminate YPG/PKK terrorists from northern Syria east of the Euphrates River.
*)Vanuatu braces for Cyclone Harold
Tropical Cyclone Harold, which claimed 27 lives as it swept through the Solomon Islands, is bearing down on the Pacific nation of Vanuatu.
Vanuatu's meteorology service said the cyclone was packing winds of up to 235 kilometres per hour, prompting red alerts in some provinces.
Officials warned residents to expect flash flooding and said ships should stay in port or risk facing huge swells on the high seas.
And finally...
*)Bronx zoo tiger tests positive for coronavirus
A tiger at New York's Bronx Zoo has tested positive for Covid-19 after developing a dry cough.
Nadia, a four-year-old Malayan tiger, is believed to have contracted the virus from a caretaker who was asymptomatic at the time.
There have been a handful of reports that animals couldn’t pass the virus to human beings but could test positive if exposed by humans.
*) Global Covid-19 cases cross one million mark
The coronavirus has infected more than one million people globally, with the death toll increasing at an alarming speed in Spain, Italy and the US.
The US reported the world’s highest virus death toll in a single day after 1,169 people died yesterday, taking the total number of fatalities to more than 6,000.
The outbreak has also put millions of people out of work, including 10 million in the US.
*) Twitter removes thousands of accounts over misinformation
Twitter has taken down thousands of accounts with links to Egypt, Honduras, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and Serbia.
It said the accounts were removed because they violated its policies and were a targeted attempt to undermine public dialogue.
Some of the accounts were being used to amplify messages critical of Iran, Qatar, and Turkey.
*) Myanmar camps face 'catastrophe' from virus
Human Rights Watch has warned hundreds of thousands of displaced people in Myanmar face a “health catastrophe” amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
The warning comes amid growing calls from the international community for an end to fighting in the southeastern nation.
Myanmar has confirmed only 16 cases of infection and one death, but experts say the true figure could be far higher in the impoverished country.
*) World Games postponed to 2022
The 2021 World Games have been delayed by a year to avoid clashing with the newly rescheduled Tokyo Olympics.
The World Games, held every four years, were scheduled to take place in Alabama in the US in 2021, but are now postponed to July 2022.
Tokyo 2020 Olympics organisers decided last month to reschedule the event over the coronavirus outbreak.
And finally...
*) China's Shenzhen bans consumption of cats, dogs
China’s city of Shenzhen has banned the consumption of dogs and cats from next month.
The city says dogs and cats have developed a close connection with humans over the centuries and there is no need for their consumption.
The decision comes after scientists said the novel coronavirus was passed to humans from animals.
*)Global Covid-19 cases near one million
At least 884 people have died of Covid-19 in the US in a single day, a new record for the country as its death toll crosses the 5,000 mark. More than 215,000 people are now infected in the US, as global cases near one million. The UK has come under criticism for its lack of testing as countries across the world escalate their fight to contain the coronavirus pandemic.
*)Trump warns Iran against possible ‘sneak attack’ on US in Iraq
President Donald Trump has said Iran or its proxies planned a sneak attack on US targets in Iraq. He warned Iran would “pay a very heavy price” without elaborating on the details. The tension between the two countries heightened after a US drone strike killed Iran’s top general Qassem Soleimani in Iraq in January.
*)COP26 climate summit postponed over coronavirus
The UN climate change summit, which was due to take place in November, has been postponed as the world grapples with the coronavirus pandemic. Some 30,000 people, including 200 world leaders, were due to attend the 10-day conference on how to halt rising global temperatures. The UK, which is hosting COP26, says the dates for 2021 will be announced later.
*)Turkey delivers medical aid to Spain and Italy
Turkey’s military has delivered medical aid to Spain and Italy as they face the worst of Europe’s Covid-19 crisis. Spain and Italy’s delegations to NATO took to Twitter to thank Turkey. The virus has killed at least 13,155 people in Italy, the highest death toll for a single country to date. Spain has reported 9,387 coronavirus deaths. And finally...
*)Harry Potter to rescue bored children stuck in lockdowns
British author JK Rowling is hoping her Harry Potter series will work its magic on children stuck at home during the coronavirus lockdown. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone e-books and audiobooks will be available for free throughout April. A new online hub, Harry Potter At Home, will be aimed at younger children and launched on WizardingWorld.com, and will offer activities and quizzes.
*) US Covid-19 death toll tops 4,000
The coronavirus outbreak in the US has killed more than 4,000 people and infected nearly 190,000.
Top doctors advising the White House estimate a 100,000 to 240,000 people will die of Covid-19 in the US if people abide by the current guidelines.
With Italy and Spain reporting the most fatalities, the global coronavirus death toll has crossed 42,000, with close to 860,000 infections.
*) Taliban team arrives in Kabul for prisoner swap
A three-member Taliban team has arrived in Afghanistan’s capital to begin a prisoner exchange as part of a peace deal reached with the US.
The deal stipulated an exchange of 6,000 prisoners held by the Afghan government and the Taliban.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had earlier called the development “good news”.
*) US outlines plan for Venezuela transition, sanctions relief
The Trump administration is prepared to lift sanctions on Venezuela in support of a new proposal to form a transitional government.
The new plan requires both Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido to step aside in favour of a governing council, US officials said.
Under the plan, a five-member council will govern Venezuela until elections can be held within six to 12 months.
*) Ships carrying sick and dead passengers beg Florida to dock
Two ships carrying people from an ill-fated cruise are pleading the US state of Florida to let them disembark with those infected and killed by Covid-19.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has said the states’ health care resources are already stretched too thin to take those people onboard.
President Donald Trump said he would speak to DeSantis on the fate of ships’ coronavirus caseload. And finally...
*) Harry and wife Meghan bid farewell to royal roles
Prince Harry and former television star Meghan Markle, have posted their last message as working members of Britain’s royal family.
The couple shocked Queen Elizabeth in January by announcing plans to step back from their royal roles.
From Wednesday, Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, will be free to pursue new careers and spend their time in North America.
US coronavirus death toll passes 3,000 and Tokyo Olympic games rescheduled to take place in July and August next year
*) US coronavirus death toll passes 3,000
The Covid-19 virus pandemic continues to wreak havoc across the globe as the death toll inches closer to 40,000.
The US has been hit the worst, with more than 160,000 cases and more than 3,000 people dead.
Around half of the world’s deaths and infections have occurred in Europe, with Italy, Spain and France bearing the biggest brunt.
*)G20 agrees to keep markets open Trade ministers from the group of 20 major economies agreed to keep their markets open, as the world battles the deadly coronavirus pandemic.
They also agreed to ensure the continued flow of vital medical supplies, equipment, and other essential goods.
Last week, G20 leaders pledged to inject over $5 trillion into the global economy to limit job and income losses from the virus outbreak.
*)US prepares crackdown on Huawei’s global chip supply
Senior Trump administration officials have reportedly agreed to new measures against China’s Huawei Technologies.
The latest move aims to restrict the global supply of chips to Huawei, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The move comes as Washington and Beijing trade barbs over who is to blame for the spread of coronavirus.
*)Taliban assaults kill at least 27 Afghan security personnel
Taliban militants killed at least 27 members of Afghan security forces in three attacks over the weekend, officials said.
The attacks came as a US-brokered peace effort between the Taliban and Kabul struggles to get off the ground.
The Afghan government is at loggerheads with the Taliban on part of the deal, including a prisoner exchange and on negotiating teams. And finally...
*)Tokyo Olympics rescheduled for next year
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics will open next year in the same time slot scheduled for this year’s games.
Organisers said the opening ceremony will take place on July 23 next year.
Last week, the International Olympic Committee and Japan agreed to postpone the games because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Coronavirus infections and deaths continue to surge, and Kobe Bryant’s towel sells for $33,000
*)Global infection rate on coronavirus increases
The Covid-19 virus is spreading faster than before, according to the World Health Organization.
With more than 720,000 confirmed cases and over 34,000 people dead, the pandemic has wiped off around $15 trillion from global stock markets.
Europe has been hardest hit, the US, specifically New York, has become the new epicentre while China has reported a slowdown in new casualties.
*)US-led coalition pulls out of 3rd Iraqi base this month
The US-led coalition has withdrawn from northern Iraq’s K1 Air Base, a site which nearly triggered a war between Washington and Iran.
A rocket attack on the base in December sparked a series of similar tit-for-tat attacks, culminating in the assassination of top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in Iraq this year.
The K1 Air Base is the third site coalition forces have left this month in line with the US plans to consolidate its troops in two locations in Iraq.
*)Netanyahu and Gantz see ‘significant progress’ toward unity govt
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival Benny Gantz announced “significant progress” in coalition talks.
The two have previously voiced support for a unity government to help combat coronavirus, which has killed at least 12 people and infected over 3,800.
There have been no official details on the makeup of a future government.
*)Saudi Arabia intercepts two missiles from Yemen
Saudi air defences intercepted two missiles over Riyadh and a city on the Yemen border over the weekend.
At least two civilians were wounded in the capital which is under curfew to combat the coronavirus.
Yemen’s Houthis claimed the rocket attacks. The Houthi rebels have been fighting a Saudi-led coalition in Yemen since 2015.
And finally...
*)Towel from Kobe’s swan song sells for $33K in online auction
The towel that was draped over Kobe Bryant’s shoulders during his farewell speech sold for over $33,000 at an online auction.
A fan had grabbed the towel after the superstar’s final NBA game, beginning a stretch in which the souvenir was sold multiple times.
Iconic Auction’s president told CNN that the buyer is known for having the largest collection of Lakers memorabilia worldwide.
*)US has most of world’s confirmed coronavirus cases
The US now has the most number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the world, with more than 85,000 infections.
More than 1,500 people died of the virus in Spain, Italy and France on Thursday as millions remain under lockdown across Europe.
Globally, Covid-19 has killed more than 24,000 people.
*)G20 pledges $5T, ‘united’ response to coronavirus crisis
G20 nations have pledged to inject $5 trillion into the global economy to counter the coronavirus pandemic amid deep recession forecasts.
The world leaders are under criticism for a slow reaction to the crisis.
In an emergency video conference chaired by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman, G20 leaders promised a robust financial package for developing nations.
*)Netanyahu and Gantz move closer to unity government
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s main rival Benny Gantz has been elected as speaker of parliament.
The surprise manoeuvre heralds a unity that could keep Netanyahu in power, following three inconclusive national elections in less than a year.
Gantz and Netanyahu have proposed a "national emergency" government to help tackle the coronavirus crisis.
*)Maduro threatens ‘cowboy’ Trump after drug charge
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro stands defiant in the face of a $15 million bounty by the US for drug trafficking.
Calling President Donald Trump a “racist cowboy”, Maduro vowed to fight should the US and neighbouring Co lombia dare to invade.
Maduro said the drug trafficking charges were politically motivated.
And finally...
*)US Space Force launches first mission
The US Space Force has sent what is said to be an ultra-secure military communication satellite into orbit.
Its first national security mission comes even as the coronavirus pandemic paralyses much of the US.
President Trump announced adding a military arm to the Force in December, calling space “the world’s newest warfighting domain.”
*)New York struggles with coronavirus as US deaths top 1,000
More than 1,000 people have died of the coronavirus disease in the US with infections at almost 70,000.
The US has the third-highest number of cases behind China and Italy.
Senate has also approved a $2 trillion coronavirus stimulus package designed to boost the economy.
New York is one of the hardest-hit states with 280 deaths.
*)Italy’s Covid-19 death toll rises
Italy still has the world's highest coronavirus death toll.
In the latest figures, another 683 deaths were reported, pushing the country's count to over 7,500.
The total number of infections is almost at 75,000, with 9,362 recoveries.
*)Far-right terrorist pleads guilty to NZ terror attacks
A far-right gunman accused of terror attacks on mosques in New Zealand a year ago has pleaded guilty to 51 counts of murder.
The terrorist had previously denied all charges and was set to go on trial in June.
He also pleaded guilty to 40 charges of attempted murder and one terrorism charge.
*)Turkey indicts Saudi suspects in Khashoggi’s murder
Turkish prosecutors are seeking life sentences for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s two former top aides for murdering journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
He was killed in 2018 inside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul.
Another 18 Saudi citizens have also been indicted.
All 20 suspects left Turkey after the murder, and Saudi Arabia refuses to extradite them.
And finally...
*)Time running out for Wimbledon
Wimbledon has so far survived the cull of the world’s most prestigious sporting events due to the coronavirus pandemic.
But it's only a matter of time before the tennis championships are either postponed or cancelled, which will be a first since 1945.
With London in its first week of lockdown, the All England Lawn Tennis Club are weighing up their limited options.
*)India imposes largest Covid-19 lockdown in the world
The largest lockdown in the world has been imposed by India on its 1.3 billion citizens to curb the spread of Covid-19.
Essential services such as pharmacies and grocery stores will be available, but panic-buying began just minutes after the announcement.
It remains to be seen how India will manage the lockdown with its sprawling informal settlements and high levels of poverty.
*)Covid-19 global death toll nears 20,000
The worldwide death toll from the virus is now nearing 20,000.
More than 420,000 people are now infected since the outbreak began in China’s Wuhan last year.
In a separate figure, more than 110,000 have recovered since January.
*)At least four killed in attack on Sikh temple in Afghanistan
At least four people were killed after gunmen and suicide bombers stormed a Sikh temple or gurdwara in Afghanistan's Kabul.
Afghanistan's Interior Ministry said there were around 150 worshippers inside the temple at the time of the attack.
No group has yet claimed responsibility.
*)German Neo-Nazi terror group members sentenced to prison
Eight members of German neo-Nazi group Revolution Chemnitz were sentenced to prison terms ranging from two to five-and-a-half years.
They were found guilty of forming a terrorist organisation that was planning a campaign of violence.
Concern continues to grow in Germany over the prevalence of the militant far-right.
And finally...
*)Co-creator of Asterix and Obelix comics dies at 92
Albert Uderzo, co-creator of the famous Asterix and Obelix comics, has died of a heart attack aged 92.
Uderzo created Asterix in 1959 with fellow Frenchman Rene Goscinny.
The 38 comics are about the adventures of Asterix, an indomitable Gaul, and his massive sidekick, Obelix, as they gleefully thwart Roman legionnaires.
*)Global Covid-19 death toll surpasses 16,500
Over 380,000 Covid-19 infections have now been reported in 195 countries and territories worldwide.
The global death toll has risen past 16,500, with Italy recording the highest number of deaths, over 6,000.
Syria has reported its first case, raising concerns about an outbreak in a country where war has devastated all systems, including health care.
*)UK implements stricter measures
In Europe, Britain is the latest country to announce drastic measures to contain the virus.
The UK government is instructing all its citizens to stay at home or face hefty police fines.
The order follows strict actions taken by Italy and Spain, which remain the worst affected in the region.
*)US cuts $1B in aid to Afghanistan
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a $1 billion cut in US aid to Afghanistan.
It comes after Pompeo failed to convince Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his political foe to end a feud that has jeopardised US-led peace efforts with the Taliban.
The US is also conducting a review to implement additional reductions.
*)Second Turkish-Russian joint patrol in Syria’s Idlib
Turkish and Russian forces conducted their second joint patrol on the M4 highway in Syria's Idlib.
Turkey and Russia agreed in a deal that all parties must cease military action in Idlib’s de-escalation zone.
The deal also stressed preventing further deterioration of the humanitarian situation, protection of civilians and ensuring humanitarian assistance to all Syrians in need.
And finally...
*)Olympic Games could get postponed to next year
The US and New Zealand joined a growing list of countries calling for the Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo to be postponed.
Japan, which has invested $12 billion, will meet with International Olympic Committee officials today to negotiate a postponement of the games to next year.
The Olympics have never been delayed, though they were cancelled during the two world wars and disrupted during major Cold War boycotts.
*) Australia announces lockdown over coronavirus
Global efforts continue to contain the novel coronavirus, which has so far killed more than 14,600 people worldwide and infected over 338,000.
The US is now the country with the third-highest cases, behind China and Italy.
Saudi Arabia announced a 21-day curfew while New Zealand and Australia joined countries announcing a lockdown.
*) Riot in Colombia prison leaves 23 dead
Rioting at a crowded prison in Colombia’s capital Bogota has killed at least 23 inmates and wounded 90 more.
Officials said the riot was triggered by an attempted mass breakout from La Modelo prison.
Bogota was on a weekend lockdown over the coronavirus pandemic when the incident happened.
*) Canada pulls out of Tokyo Olympics
The Tokyo Olympics are going to happen but almost surely in 2021 rather than in four months as planned.
This became clear after the IOC announced it was considering a postponement.
Countries like Canada and Australia have added pressure by saying they will not participate this year over the Covid-19 outbreak.
*) Strong quake hits Croatia's capital
In Croatia, a 5.3 magnitude earthquake has caused widespread damage and panic in the capital Zagreb.
A 15-year-old was said to be in critical condition among other people who sustained injuries.
Many buildings cracked in Zagreb and walls and rooftops were damaged.
And finally...
*) Harvey Weinstein tests positive for coronavirus
Rapist and disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein has tested positive for the coronavirus.
Officials said Weinstein has been placed in isolation at Wende Correctional Facility.
He was brought to the facility from New York City's Rikers Island jail, where he was serving a sentence of 23 years for sexual assault and rape.
*) Italy overtakes China with most virus-related deaths
Italy's coronavirus death toll surpassed that of China, with 427 fatalities confirmed in the space of 24 hours.
The total number of deaths in Italy now stands at 3,405.
Meanwhile, the US state of California has been put under lockdown over coronavirus fears.
*) India hangs four men convicted of fatal gang rape
In India, four men have been hanged for the gang rape and murder of a student on a New Delhi bus in 2012.
The 23-year-old physiotherapy student died from her injuries days after six men raped her on the bus.
The executions were carried out as two recent attacks renewed attention to the problem of sexual violence in the country.
*) Olympic flame lands in Japan
The Olympic flame arrived in Japan from Greece in a scaled-down ceremony at an airbase in the country's north.
The flame touched down amid growing doubts about the Tokyo 2020 Games starting on July 24 in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.
The virus wrought havoc with the ceremony in Athens, which was held without any spectators.
*) Trump's team, senators to negotiate $1T economic rescue deal
US administration and congressional leaders are set to discuss a $1 trillion dollar economic package to rescue the country’s economy.
The package will include direct financial help for Americans, relief for small businesses and new support for coronavirus patients.
It is the biggest effort yet to shore up the US economy as the coronavirus pandemic hurtles the country toward a likely recession.
And finally...
*) Netflix to reduce streaming quality in Europe
Netflix will reduce the quality of its streaming in Europe to ease pressure on the internet.
The company’s decision came as demand soared across the continent, where millions are confined to their homes over coronavirus fears.
People across Europe are increasingly turning to the internet to stave off boredom during the quarantine and lockdowns.
China reports zero new domestic virus cases for the first time, and the population of endangered gray wolves on the rise in southwest US
*) Wuhan reports no new cases of virus
China records zero domestic infections for the first time since the outbreak emerged while confirming 24 imported cases.
The coronavirus has infected more than 215,000 people worldwide and killed over 8,900.
Governments across the globe have been enforcing measures to counter the pandemic and its fallout.
*) Turkey launches $15.4B aid package to fight coronavirus
Turkey's President Erdogan announced a $15.4B stimulus package to mitigate the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.
The package targets business, individuals, companies and various industries affected by the pandemic and its impact on the economy.
President Erdogan said Turkey would also postpone debt payments and reduce the tax burden on various sectors.
*)Lazzarini to head UN Palestinian refugee agency
Swiss humanitarian relief expert Philippe Lazzarini has been appointed to head the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres had earlier recommended Lazzarini to lead the agency.
Lazzarini replaces Pierre Krahenbuhl, who resigned amid accusations of mismanagement in 2019.
*)Greek police use tear gas on migrants at Turkish border
Police on Greece's border used tear gas to repel hundreds of refugees and asylum seekers attempting to enter the country.
An estimated 2,000 people are still camped out on the border weeks after Turkey declared its borders to Europe open.
Ankara announced it is closing down its six land and sea border crossings with Greece and Bulgaria to contain the coronavirus epidemic.
And finally, *)Endangered gray wolves on rise in southwest US
The population of endangered gray wolves in the US jumped by 24 percent in 2019.
It means there are more wolves in the wild than at any time since wildlife managers began efforts to conserve the animals decades ago.
Since the first wolves were released in 1998, the programme has aimed at re-establishing the species across its historic range.
Coronavirus cases in China on the decline day after day, and researchers say female genital mutilation affects far more countries than we think
*) Governments grapple with virus border closures, lockdowns
Governments around the globe are grappling with how to implement border closures, travel restrictions and lockdowns amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The virus and countermeasures have unleashed transportation chaos and threatened economies.
But authorities say the steps are needed to slow the spread of the new coronavirus.
*)With 3 more victories, Biden extends lead over Sanders
Joe Biden secured solid victories over Bernie Sanders in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination in Florida, Illinois and Arizona.
Ohio chose to halt in-person voting and delay its primary to avoid the risk of spreading the coronavirus.
Illinois, Florida and Arizona went ahead, instituting some new safety measures for voters and poll workers.
*)Turkey and EU trio discuss Syria, migration crisis
Turkish, German, British and French leaders discussed the Syria crisis, refugee issue and the coronavirus pandemic.
During the talks, the leaders discussed methods of humanitarian aid to Syria's northwest Idlib province.
They also agreed to work jointly to combat the coronavirus pandemic that had prompted the summit to be held over video conference.
*)EU border restrictions will hit transfers of child refugees – UN official
European border restrictions in place due to coronavirus will affect plans to transfer hundreds of children out of refugee camps in Greece, the UN says.
European countries had in recent weeks agreed to take unaccompanied minors from Greece.
But some EU member states imposed checks at control-free travel borders and EU leaders are later expected to seal the bloc's external borders.
And finally,
*)World 'woefully' underestimating female genital mutilation, study finds
Female genital mutilation affects far more countries than previously thought, researchers say.
That means global estimates for the number of women who have been cut are "woefully" low as compared to actual numbers.
The UN says about 200 million girls and women have been cut worldwide.
WHO chief calls for ‘every suspected coronavirus case’ to be tested and US begins first trial of anti-virus vaccine
*)WHO chief calls for virus testing as Europe locks down
The global battle to contain the coronavirus reached a new level of urgency, with the focus shifting from Asia to Europe and the US.
Meanwhile, the head of the World Health Organization has called for every suspected coronavirus case to be tested.
“You cannot fight a fire while blindfolded,” said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Test, test, test. Test every suspected case.”
*) Ohio halts presidential primary over virus concerns
Uncertainty surrounds Democratic primary as Ohio scrapped the vote just hours before polls were set to open.
Governor Mike DeWine announced the decision, citing the need to combat the novel coronavirus.
Officials in Arizona, Florida and Illinois said they would move forward with the vote, as they had done enough to ensure the safety of voters.
*) Russian court approves law that could extend Putin's reign
Russia's Constitutional Court approved a law on constitutional amendments that could allow Vladimir Putin to remain in power for another 16 years.
The law still must be approved in a national referendum that has been scheduled for April 22.
Because of term limits under the current law, Putin, in power since 2000, wouldn't be able to run for president again in 2024.
*) Israel swears in new parliament
Israel swore in its newly elected parliament under stringent restrictions because of the coronavirus outbreak.
Israeli President Reuven Rivlin called for unity and compromise from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his rival, Benny Gantz.
The new lawmakers took the oath of office in groups of three over 40 staggered rounds.
And finally,
*)US begins first human trial of coronavirus vaccine
The first clinical trials for a novel coronavirus vaccine have begun with human test subjects in the US.
In all, 45 healthy adults aged between 18 and 55 years old will take part in the tests, which are expected to run for roughly six weeks.
But it may be another year to 18 months before it becomes available once it has passed more trial phases to prove it works and is safe.
Italy marks its deadliest day in the coronavirus pandemic and England will offer an HIV prevention pill to those at high risk.
*) World grapples with spread of coronavirus
Italy recorded the deadliest day of the coronavirus pandemic with 368 new deaths on Sunday, raising the total number of fatalities to over 1,800.
More than 100 million Europeans are now on lockdown, with Spain joining Italy in restricting people's movements
The pandemic has infected more than 168,000 people and killed more than 6,400 around the world.
*) Syria's brutal war enters 10th year
The brutal conflict in Syria entered its 10th year with Bashar al Assad's regime consolidating its hold over a war-wracked country.
The conflict began in March 2011 after the regime violently responded to peaceful anti-government protests.
Since then over 560,000 people have been killed and more than 11 million people displaced, according to The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor.
*)Netanyahu rival Gantz chosen to form new Israeli government
Israel's president tapped Benny Gantz to form a government, in an attempt to end a political stalemate to help tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
Reuven Rivlin's announcement marked a setback for right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Gantz secured recommendations to lead a government from 61 lawmakers in the 120-seat Knesset, or parliament, after a March 2 election.
*)Dozens of Lagos buildings destroyed after oil pipeline explodes
At least 15 people have been killed after an oil pipeline exploded in Nigeria's Lagos city.
A fire broke out after the explosion, which destroyed at least 50 homes and several other buildings in the area.
Government officials say the cause of the explosion is still unknown, but local media ruled out vandalism as a cause. And finally,
*) England joins nations offering HIV prevention pill to all at high risk
England will join a growing list of countries offering an HIV-prevention pill to all those at high risk of catching the virus, the British government said.
The highly effective pre-exposure prophylaxis drugs will be available for free later this year, the Department of Health said.
Health campaigners hailed the move as a "milestone moment."
*)World grapples with spread of coronavirus
The death toll from coronavirus has risen to almost 4,900 with over 135,000 infections around the world.
The virus has triggered a global stock markets meltdown while the global sporting calendar has been shredded with major events like Formula 1, football and tennis either being cancelled, suspended or postponed.
*)US launches air strikes against pro-Iranian militia in Iraq
The US has conducted retaliatory air strikes against Iranian-backed militia in Iraq.
US Defence Secretary Mark Esper says the Pentagon is prepared to respond again if necessary.
It comes after 18 rockets killed one British and two US soldiers at an air base north of Baghdad.
*)New Zealand to mark a year since terror attacks
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern attended a joint Friday prayer in Christchurch to mark the anniversary of last year’s March 15 terror attacks.
Ardern says New Zealanders have become more engaged with the Muslims in the year since a white terrorist killed 51 people at two mosques.
The country will on Sunday hold a National Remembrance Service to commemorate those who died.
*)Floods kill at least five in Egypt
At least five people were killed by floods in Egypt.
Heavy rain demolished houses in the southern province of Qena, where lightning caused several fires.
Forecasters have warned of heavy rains and flooding across much of the country through Saturday.
And finally,
*)Quarantined dog tests negative for coronavirus Some good news for pet owners.
A pet dog held in quarantine in Hong Kong after repeatedly testing “weak positive” for coronavirus, has tested negative.
The dog will still need to be retested before being discharged.
The World Health Organization says there's no evidence so far of human-to-animal transmission.
*)WHO declares coronavirus a pandemic
After declaring the crisis a pandemic, the World Health Organization says it is alarmed at the level of inaction to contain the spread and severity of the virus.
There has been a global increase in the number of deaths and infections, which is having significant health, social and economic impact on more than 120 countries.
Outside Asia, Europe has more coronavirus cases and casualties than any other continent.
*)More drastic measures for Italy
Italy has announced even more restrictions on top of a massive lockdown.
All shops in the country will be closed with the exception of supermarkets, food stores and pharmacies.
More than 800 people have died and 12,000 are infected in the country.
*)Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson test positive
Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, have both tested positive for the virus in Australia.
The actor was set to begin production on a film about the life of Elvis Presley when he and his wife developed slight fevers.
He took to Twitter to say they would both be observed and isolated for as long as public health and safety requires.
*)Rocket attack kills US coalition soldiers in Iraq
In other news, three US coalition soldiers were killed in a rocket attack on the Taji military base in Iraq.
A British and two US servicemen died after 10 Katyusha rockets hit the air base north of Baghdad.
No one has claimed responsibility for the attacks, but Washington is accusing pro-Iran factions.
And finally,
*)Convicted rapist Harvey Weinstein back in hospital
Convicted rapist Harvey Weinstein is back in hospital with chest pains after a judge sentenced him to 23 years behind bars.
Two weeks ago, a jury in New York found the former Hollywood producer guilty of rape and a criminal sexual act.
The 67-year-old will serve his time at an upstate New York prison.
*)China reports 22 new virus deaths as imported cases rise
China has reported an increase in coronavirus cases from abroad, with 22 more deaths and 24 new cases nationwide.
The number of new cases has dramatically fallen in recent weeks but today's numbers were a slight uptick from yesterday’s 19.
New cases in Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, fell to a new low, with 13 infections reported today.
*)Turkey confirms its first case of coronavirus
Turkey has announced its first case of the new coronavirus.
Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said the case was a male patient who had returned from Europe.
Koca said the patient was isolated and that his family members and other people who had come into contact with him had been quarantined.
*)Biden secures Michigan in a major blow to Sanders
Former US Vice President Joe Biden has won the Democratic primary race in Michigan, alongside smaller states.
This deals a huge blow to Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.
Michigan is the biggest prize of the six states that voted on Tuesday, with 125 delegates up for grabs, putting the former vice president in the lead.
*)LA Opera deems Domingo misconduct accusations credible
The Los Angeles Opera says its investigation into star Placido Domingo had found accusations of "inappropriate conduct" credible.
Investigators say 10 women accused the star of forcibly kissing, grabbing and fondling women over a period of more than 30 years.
The six-month investigation, conducted by outside lawyers, also found “no evidence” that LA Opera ever ignored, failed to address or covered up complaints.
And finally,
*)London man second patient to be cured of HIV A second patient has been cured of HIV after undergoing stem cell transplant treatment, according to doctors in the UK.
Doctors have not found any trace of infection 30 months after 40-year-old Adam Castillejo stopped traditional treatment.
But researchers are cautioning that the breakthrough does not mean a general cure for HIV, which annually kills almost one million people.
*)Italy on lockdown over coronavirus fears
Italy is going under a nationwide lockdown in an effort to contain the coronavirus spread.
The European country is the worst-hit outside China with at least 460 deaths and more than 9 thousand people infected.
In the meantime, China reported 19 new cases of coronavirus infections on Monday. That’s 40 cases down from a day earlier.
*)US begins troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, official says
US troops have begun leaving Afghanistan for the initial troop withdrawal required in the US-Taliban peace agreement, a US official said.
The troops will not be replaced as the US moves ahead with plans to cut the number of forces in the country from about 13,000 to 8,600.
The pullout comes as Afghanistan's rival leaders were each sworn in as president in separate ceremonies on Monday.
*)Sudan's PM unharmed after assassination bid
Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok escaped unharmed after a bomb and gun attack targeted his convoy in the capital Khartoum.
The attack took place in the Kober district of northeast Khartoum when Hamdok was on his way to work.
Sudan's official news agency SUNA said Hamdok was in "good health and a safe place".
Facebook, Twitter place warning labels on altered Biden video
Facebook and Twitter have added tags pointing out false or manipulated content to a video reposted by US President Donald *)Trump of his Democrat rival Joe Biden.
The video which appeared to show Biden endorsing Trump, was marked "partly false" by Facebook and "manipulated media" on Twitter.
Facebook said this case merited fact-checking because it had been posted before the president shared it.
*)Pearl Jam postpones first leg of tour over virus concerns
Pearl Jam is postponing the North American leg of its Gigaton world tour because of concerns over the coronavirus.
“The levels of risk to our audience and their communities is simply too high for our comfort level," a band statement said.
New dates will be determined and current tickets will be honoured for those dates, the band said.
TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, March 9th:
*) Over 100 countries affected by coronavirus
The global death toll from coronavirus has passed 3,800 with over 110,000 new infections reported in over 100 countries.
Many countries are taking precautionary measures, like banning travel and shutting down schools and universities.
With the highest number of cases in Europe, Italy has locked down over a dozen provinces to halt the spread of the virus.
*) Turkish president to meet EU leaders over refugee crisis
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will meet with EU leaders in Brussels to discuss the refugee crisis.
Thousands of refugees are stuck at Turkey's border with Greece as they try to get into Europe after Turkey allowed them to leave.
Turkey says since the war in Syria began, it has been caring for refugees on its own, despite promises from Europe to help.
*) Some Women’s Day rallies marred by violence
Millions of women took to the streets around the world to hold rallies and protests for International Women's Day. While most remained peaceful, some were marred with violence.
Mexican women faced off with anti-abortion activists during a rally, while in Kyrgyzstan, masked men attacked a women’s march.
In Pakistan, rally-goers had stones and shoes thrown at them and in Chile, police used tear gas and rubber bullets on women who were rallying.
*) Austrian Alp avalanches kill at least 6
At least six people were killed by two separate avalanches in the Austrian Alps.
Police say five holiday-makers were on the Hoher Dachstein range when the avalanche hit.
In the other avalanche, a police officer was killed on Grossglockner Peak while undergoing training.
And finally, *) All-female film crew takes on Cameroon’s male-run industry An all-female TV and film production crew are taking on Cameroon's male-dominated industry.
Gurl Boss Productions have already produced over 50 music videos.
Owner Tatapong Beyala says she and her staff face daily bouts of judgements, insults, sexual innuendos and harassment.
*)Ceasefire begins in Syria's Idlib
A new ceasefire in Idlib province has been agreed upon by Turkey and Russia.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin reached the agreement in Moscow after six hours of talks.
The new deal will also see joint Turkish and Russian patrols and a 6-km security corridor on either side of Idlib's strategically important M4 highway.
*)Countries urged to do more to contain spread of virus
The World Health Organization says global leaders must not give up trying to contain the coronavirus outbreak.
Almost 100,000 people have been infected globally, with the death toll exceeding 3,300.
The vast majority of cases are in China, followed by South Korea, Italy and Iran.
*)US slams ICC authorising inquiry into Afghanistan war crimes
The US has slammed the International Criminal Court's decision to investigate crimes committed during the Afghan war.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called the court “renegade and unlawful” for bringing the ruling days after the US signed a deal with the Taliban.
On Thursday, the ICC overturned an earlier rejection on the inquiry and authorised an investigation into the Taliban, the Afghan army and US military forces.
*)Dubai's ruler abducted daughters, threatened former wife – UK court
A British judge has ruled that Dubai's ruler ordered the kidnapping of two of his daughters and waged a campaign of intimidation and harassment against his former wife.
The ruling follows a long custody battle between Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum and his sixth and youngest wife, Princess Haya.
The court also found that Maktoum was responsible for abducting and forcibly returning two of his daughters from another marriage.
And finally,
*) Seventh grader names NASA’s new Mars rover 'Perseverance'
NASA's latest Mars rover has been named 'Perseverance' by a seventh-grade student.
Alexander Mather's essay was picked from 28,000 others in a special NASA competition.
'Perseverance' is scheduled to land on Mars next February.
*)China reports new coronavirus cases, schools close worldwide
China reported 31 more deaths from the new coronavirus epidemic, taking the country's overall death toll past 3,000.
At least 3,012 people have now died nationwide in the outbreak that first emerged in the central city of Wuhan.
The new virus has left nearly 300 million students worldwide out of school as the IMF urged an all-out, global offensive against the epidemic.
*)Turkey says Greek forces kill refugee at Edirne-Kastanies border
Turkish officials said Greek forces killed a refugee and wounded five others on Wednesday as they tried to cross the border between the two countries at Pazarkule, Edirne.
Greek riot police and troops used water cannons and tear gas on groups of migrants.
The five men who were wounded had been shot in the foot, groin, head and chest by live bullets, Edirne Governor Ekrem Canalp said.
*)Microsoft asks staff in Seattle area, Silicon Valley to work from home
Microsoft has asked employees to work from home in order to limit exposure to the coronavirus outbreak, responding to cases in California.
The company asked its employees in the Seattle region to work from home if possible until March 25.
Microsoft also asked employees to suspend any business travel to the areas “unless essential for the continuity of Microsoft”.
*)Former UN chief Javier Perez de Cuellar dead at 100
Former UN chief Javier Perez de Cuellar died in his native Peru aged 100, his son said.
Perez de Cuellar served as UN secretary general from 1982 to 1991, when he was often described as a "pacifist by vocation and nature".
He was known for his peace-making efforts, including brokering a ceasefire in the Iran-Iraq war.
And finally,
*)Met Opera institutes 14-day quarantine for some due to virus
The Metropolitan Opera has instituted quarantines for artists and employees travelling to New York from coronavirus-affected areas.
Diane Zola, an assistant general manager at the Met, sent an email to artist managers mandating a “self-imposed quarantine for a period of 14 days”.
Zola instructed managers that their clients may need to change travel plans in order to allow either 14 days after arrival in New York before the start of rehearsals or a late start to rehearsals.
*)US says it is willing to provide ammunition to Turkey
The US has pledged to give Turkey ammunition and humanitarian assistance to help Ankara's efforts in northwest Syria.
The announcement came during a visit to the Turkey-Syria border by US special envoy for Syria James Jeffrey.
Jeffery was speaking as the fighting intensified in Idlib province, where the Turkish military is pushing back Syrian regime forces.
*)Biden emerges as frontrunner for Democrat nomination
Joe Biden is emerging as a Democratic frontrunner as first polls close in Super Tuesday vote but still faces stiff competition from Bernie Sanders.
Sanders seized victory in California, while a resurgent Biden scored wins in the upper Midwest and African-American strongholds in the South.
Fourteen states are casting their ballots, making it the largest day of voting in the primary season.
*)World Bank unveils $12B aid package to combat coronavirus
In the latest effort to tackle the worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus, the World Bank has pledged an emergency fund of $12 billion.
The announcement comes as the global death toll crosses 3,100.
*)At least 25 people killed in Tennessee, crews search for missing
At least 25 people have been killed after a string of tornadoes struck the US state of Tennessee.
The tornadoes caused significant damage to towns surrounding Nashville.
Emergency services say at least 40 buildings have collapsed across the central and eastern parts of the city – with power lines torn down, and trees uprooted.
And finally,
*)Researchers discover DNA in 75M-year-old dinosaur fossils
Scientists from the US and China have discovered DNA inside 75 million-year-old dinosaur fossils.
Scientists made this discovery, while investigating skull fragments of Hypacrosaurus nestlings.
These dinosaurs were herbivores believed to have lived during the late Cretaceous period in what is now North America
*)UN says Assad regime and Russia committed war crimes
A new UN report says Syria's Assad regime and Russia committed war crimes in Idlib in 2019.
The UN says it has reasonable grounds to believe Russia carried out air strikes on a popular market, a camp for displaced people and medical facilities.
The attacks killed dozens of Syrian civilians in July and August.
*)Coronavirus pandemic latest
The global coronavirus death toll has passed 3,100 with over 90,000 people infected.
New countries infected over the past 24 hours include Latvia, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Indonesia.
World Health Organization says outbreaks in South Korea, Italy, Iran and Japan were the agency's greatest concern.
*)Exit polls show Netanyahu leads after Israeli election
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu is claiming victory in the country's third election in a year.
Exit polls suggest he has a narrow lead over his rival Benny Gantz.
Netanyahu's right-wing Likud party and its allies are projected to win 59 seats in parliament – two seats short of forming a majority government.
*)Stage set for Super Tuesday
The stage is set for Super Tuesday, the most important night of the US Democratic campaign for presidential nominee.
Voters in 14 states will choose their candidate to compete against Donald Trump in November's election.
Bernie Sanders has a decent lead over Joe Biden, but Michael Bloomberg could find enough votes to sneak in.
And finally,
*)Indonesia’s most active volcano erupts
Massive smoke and ash columns rocketed 6,000 meters into the sky after a volcano erupted in Indonesia.
The eruption of Mount Merapi on the main island of Java also unleashed searing gas clouds two kilometres down its slopes.
Indonesia is prone to earthquakes and volcanoes as it sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a series of fault lines around the ocean.
*) Turkey launches military operation against Assad regime
Turkey has launched Operation Spring Shield against Syrian regime forces in northern Syria.
The operation was launched after deadly attacks on civilians and Turkish soldiers in northern Syria by Assad's regime.
The UN says regime attacks have killed more than 300 people in the province since December, and displaced over a million others.
*) Migrants and refugees stuck in no man’s land
Thousands of refugees and migrants trying to get into Europe are stuck at Turkey's border with Greece.
Ankara announced it would not abide by a deal to stop asylum seekers from reaching Europe.
Dozens have already reached Greece's Lesvos island, but at the Pazarkule crossing, Greek border police used tear gas and stun grenades to prevent refugees from entering.
*) Coronavirus spreads to over 60 countries
The number of people killed by the novel coronavirus has surpassed 3,000 worldwide, with over 60 countries affected.
Overnight, over 40 died in China, while South Korea reported nearly 500 new cases.
And in the US, a second person died from the virus.
*) Israel holds third election in a year
Israel is holding a third election in less than a year, as PM Benjamin Netanyahu seeks re-election.
Netanyahu and his main rival, Benny Gantz, failed to turn the previous two ballots into a new coalition government.
Israeli Arabs could boost support for Gantz as they feel their rights have been eroded by Israel's current right-wing government.
And finally,
*) Climate change lengthens Australia’s summer
A new study says summers in Australia are now twice as long as its winters because of climate change.
A study by the think tank Australia Institute compared data from the past two decades with mid-20th century benchmarks of temperatures.
Over the last two decades, summer across most of Australia has been on average one month longer than half a century ago, while winter has contracted by an average three weeks.
*)33 Turkish soldiers killed in Syrian regime air strike in Idlib
An Assad regime air strike killed 33 Turkish soldiers in Syria’s Idlib province, a Turkish official said.
Troops wounded in the Syrian regime attack are being treated at hospitals in Turkey, Hatay’s Governor Rahmi Dogan says.
In a separate incident the same day, Syrian regime fire killed five Turkish soldiers in Idlib.
*)Turkey will no longer stop Syrian refugees reaching Europe
Turkey will no longer stop Syrian refugees from reaching Europe, a senior Turkish official says.
Some 1 million civilians have been displaced by the regime offensive in Idlib since December.
Turkish police, coastguard and border security officials have been ordered to stand down at refugee land and sea crossings.
*)China reports 44 new virus deaths
China reports 44 more deaths from the novel coronavirus epidemic and 327 fresh cases, the lowest daily figure in more than a month.
The death toll now stands at 2,788 in mainland China, according to the National Health Commission.
The number of fatalities – which is up from the 29 reported on Thursday – were all in Hubei province, except for two deaths in Beijing.
*)Boy band BTS cancels concerts in South Korean capital due to virus
K-pop superstar group BTS has cancelled concerts in Seoul in April over concerns about a soaring viral outbreak in South Korea.
BTS says the Covid-19 “has made it impossible at this time to predict the scale of the outbreak during the dates of the concert in April.”
South Korea’s coronavirus cases crossed 2,000 on Friday, with 256 new infections.
And finally,
*)About 40 percent of US adults are obese – government survey
About 4 in 10 American adults are obese, and nearly 1 in 10 is severely so, government researchers say.
The findings come from a 2017-18 health survey, which found the obesity rate was 42 percent – higher than the 40 percent found in a similar 2016 study.
The survey numbers are small enough that there’s a mathematical chance the rates didn’t truly rise, but it’s clear adult obesity rates are trending up.
*)Nearly 400 cases confirmed in Italy, highest outside Asia
As new coronavirus cases multiply in Europe, there are growing concerns around northern Italy’s infection cluster.
Brazil, Norway and Pakistan have confirmed their first cases, which means Covid-2019 has spread to nearly 50 countries.
US President Trump is mulling an Italy travel ban, even as the latest case in the country is confirmed to be a local transmission.
*)Syrian opposition and rebels retake Saraqeb
Syrian opposition and rebels have retaken the key town of Saraqeb in Idlib and cut the highway linking the capital Damascus, with Aleppo.
Meanwhile, Turkey’s defence ministry said 114 Syrian regime targets were destroyed after two Turkish soldiers were killed in attacks in Idlib province.
The Russian-backed Syrian regime’s offensive in Idlib has displaced nearly 1 million people since December.
*)At least 32 dead in riots over citizenship law in New Delhi
Communal violence in New Delhi has killed at least 32 people and left more than 200 injured in three days of riots.
The religious violence, widely seen as anti-Muslim, started as clashes between supporters and opponents of India’s new citizenship law.
Critics say the Modi administration’s law discriminates against Muslims.
*)Gunman kills five at Milwaukee brewery complex - US police
An employee at one of the largest breweries in Milwaukee gunned down five fellow workers before taking his own life, US police said.
The assailant has been identified as a 51-year-old man who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Authorities offered no immediate motive for the attack and did not release details about how the shooting unfolded.
And finally,
*)Sharapova retires from tennis at age 32 with 5 Slam titles
The world of tennis is losing an Ace – former World Number One Maria Sharapova has announced she's retiring from the sport.
The 32-year-old has struggled with shoulder problems after attempting to return to top form following a suspension for using a banned substance.
During her career, Sharapova won five Grand Slam titles, starting with Wimbledon in 2004 at the age of 17.
*)Many dead in riots over citizenship law in New Delhi
Violent clashes between Hindu and minority Muslim groups over a new citizenship law evolved into communal riots in New Delhi.
At least 20 people were killed and another 189 wounded during riots in the capital.
A mob also vandalised a mosque in an attack that some social media users, officials and mainstream media attempted to cover up as fake news.
*)Virus hits more countries as health official warns world 'not ready'
Confirmed coronavirus cases around the world have surpassed 80,000 with new infections reported in Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
The WHO has warned that the world is simply not ready to deal with a pandemic.
The virus has so far killed more than 2,700 people – most of them in China, the epicentre of the outbreak.
*)Egypt’s former dictator Mubarak dies
Egypt is holding a military funeral for long-time strongman Hosni Mubarak who died at the age of 91.
President Abdel Fattah el Sisi is speculated to attend the event, though his office is yet to confirm.
Egypt announced three days of mourning for Mubarak who symbolised autocracy in the Middle East and was ousted by popular protests.
*)UN Security Council approves resolution on Yemen sanctions
The UN Security Council has approved a resolution extending targeted sanctions for Yemen.
Britain, the US and other Western nations supported the inclusion of the experts' findings, but Russia and China objected.
The much-revised British draft removed all references to the Houthis and Iran, but Russia and China said their demands still were not fully met.
And finally,
*)Leonardo show smashes Louvre's all-time record
Nearly 1.1 million people flocked to see a blockbuster Leonardo da Vinci exhibition at the Louvre in Paris before it closed.
In 2018, some 540,000 lined up for a major retrospective of the 19th-century French painter Eugene Delacroix.
The Leonardo show drew twice the numbers of the previous biggest show at the world's most visited museum.
*)China and South Korea confirm more virus cases
Global concerns over coronavirus spread continue as clusters grow in the Middle East and Europe.
China has reported more than 500 new COVID-2019 cases and another 71 deaths while South Korea confirmed 60 new cases and another death.
Denying accusations of a cover-up, Iran says so far only 12 people have died amongst 61 cases.
*)Weinstein found guilty of sexual assault, third-degree rape
Harvey Weinstein has been convicted of rape and sexual assault against two women.
The charges which carry up to 29 years in prison.
The disgraced Hollywood mogulâs conviction by a New York jury was hailed as a historic victory by the #MeToo movement.
Weinstein was acquitted on the most serious charges, two counts of predatory sexual assault, each carrying up to life in prison.
*)Seven killed in New Delhi ahead of President Trumpâs visit
A policeman was among at least seven people killed in New Delhi on Monday during violent clashes over a contentious citizenship law.
Protesters set several buildings on fire just hours before US President Donald Trump arrived in the Indian capital for an official visit.
The rival groups hurled rocks at each other and set some houses, shops, vehicles and a fuel station on fire.
*)Malaysian PM resigns but asked to stay as interim leader
Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has been asked to stay as interim leader of the country.
Mahathir had earlier submitted his resignation amid rumours he was planning to form a coalition without Anwar Ibrahim.
The pair had formed an alliance to win the 2018 election based on a promise that Anwar would succeed Mahathir as prime minister.
And finally,
*)Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna honoured in Los Angeles
Thousands of people paid tribute to the late NBA superstar Kobe Bryant and his daughter in Los Angeles.
The public memorial was held at the Staples Center â also known as the âHouseâ that Kobe built.
Meanwhile, Bryantâs widow is suing the helicopter operator over the fatal crash.
*)WHO warns of global coronavirus pandemic
The World Health Organization warns that the world is on the brink of a coronavirus pandemic.
As a result, more countries are closing their borders not just to people travelling from China, but from countries where the virus has begun spreading rapidly.
Globally, the number of deaths exceeds 2,600 while infections are over 79,000.
*)Nine dead in Turkey as 5.9 quake strikes northern Iran
Turkey is rushing to complete temporary shelters for hundreds of people who lost their homes after a magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck the eastern border region.
The epicentre was in the Iranian city of Khoy, but tremors extended into Turkey's Van province.
At least nine people were killed and dozens others injured by tremors in Turkey.
*)Thousands march to protest rising anti-Muslim threat in Germany
People in the German town of Hanau marched in solidarity for the victims of last week's far-right terror attack and against rising anti-Muslim sentiments in the country.
It comes after a man shot and killed nine people last Wednesday.
Some Germans are demanding the government do more against the rising far-right threat.
*)Israeli Army targets Islamic Jihad in Gaza
Israel has struck sites in Gaza linked to a Palestinian faction that fired several rockets into Israeli territory.
Iranian-backed militant group Islamic Jihad says one man was killed and four others wounded in the strikes.
The exchange came after a Palestinian news agency posted graphic footage of an Israeli Army bulldozer dragging the body of a Palestinian man who was killed near the separation fence east of Khan Younis.
And finally,
*)Indian construction worker beats Usain Boltâs 100m sprint time
An Indian construction worker who has beaten Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt's 100-metre sprint time says he isn't looking to compete professionally.
Srinivas Gowda finished a buffalo race in 13.42 seconds, covering the first 100 metres in 9.55 seconds.
That's faster than Bolt's 100-metre world record of 9.58 seconds.
*)Air strikes kill two Turkish soldiers in Syriaâs Idlib
At least two Turkish soldiers were killed and five others were wounded in air strikes in Syria's Idlib.
Retaliatory Turkish military action killed at least 50 regime fighters, the defence ministry said.
The Turkish Directorate of Communications said the Syrian regime was behind the attack.
*)China reports 889 new coronavirus cases in mainland
Mainland China has 889 new confirmed cases of coronavirus infections on Thursday, the National Health Commission said on Friday, up from 394 cases a day earlier.
That brings the total accumulated number of confirmed cases in mainland China so far to 75,465.
The death toll from the outbreak in mainland China reached 2,236 as of the end of Thursday, up by 118 from the previous day.
Voting under way in Iran parliamentary election
Iranians have begun voting in a parliamentary election that conservatives are expected to dominate.
State television showed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei casting the first ballot in Tehran.
Khamenei called on all Iranians to take part in the election "as soon as possible", saying that doing so would "guarantee the country's national interests".
*)Saudi intercepts Yemen rebel missiles targeting cities
Yemeni rebel missiles targeting cities in Saudi Arabia have been intercepted, the region's Riyadh-led military coalition said.
The missiles were fired by the Iran-aligned Houthi militant group, the coalition said in a statement released by the official Saudi Press Agency.
Saudi Arabia has repeatedly accused Iran of supplying sophisticated weapons to the Houthis, a charge Tehran denies.
And finally,
*)Trump blasts best-picture Oscar for South Korean film "Parasite"
President Donald Trump ridiculed the best-picture Oscar win for South Korean film "Parasite" during a campaign rally in Colorado.
Imitating an Academy Awards presenter, Trump said: "And the winner is ⦠a movie from South Korea".
Trump said he wished for the return of Hollywood classics like 1939's "Gone with the Wind".
*)Decline in coronavirus infections
Chinese authorities report an 8 percent decline in the number of new coronavirus infections since Monday.
But they still confirmed more almost 2,000 new cases on Tuesday.
Worldwide, the death toll stands at more than 1,800, with over 73,000 people infected.
*)UN says 40,000 Syrians displaced in past four days
Ongoing bombardment by Russian-backed regime forces in Syria has displaced over 40,000 people in the past four days.
The latest figures from the UN come amid reports that regime forces have seized several villages in Aleppo province, meaning most rebel-held regions have now been recaptured.
While the second round of peace talks in Moscow between Turkey and Russia is set to get underway later on Tuesday, regime and Russian forces are still targeting civilian areas.
*)EU agree to new operation for arms embargo in Libya
EU foreign ministers agreed to launch a new operation to enforce a UN arms embargo on Libya.
The new mission would include a naval element, which has been a sticking point for some countries.
The aim this time around is to shift the focus further west, away from the usual waters used by people leaving Libya in search of better lives in Europe.
*)Iraqi security use birdshot to disperse protesters
Iraqi security forces are using pellet guns to shoot at protesters in Baghdad.
Gunshots were heard as riot police fired birdshot pellets and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
Hundreds of people have died since anti-government demonstrations began last year against high unemployment and government corruption.
And finally,
*)Motorist captures meteor on dashcam
A Malaysian motorist captured a meteor on his dashboard camera.
The flashing fireball fell from the sky last week in Johor Bahru, near the border with Singapore.
The space rock is one of hundreds that make it into the Earth's atmosphere each year, but this one likely didn't reach the ground.
Scientists say celestial objects like this are rocky remnants left over from the formation of our solar system.
*)New virus has infected more than 64,000 people globally
The coronavirus outbreak is on the rise in China, with more than 5,000 new cases and 121 deaths recorded in the past 24 hours.
The total number of deaths from the virus now near 1,400, with the total number of recorded cases crossing the 64,000 mark globally.
Japan also confirmed its first death in Kanagawa near Tokyo.
It's the third death outside mainland China after two others in Hong Kong and the Philippines.
*)President Trump says US peace deal with Taliban is likely
President Donald Trump says there is a good chance the US will reach a peace deal with the Taliban in Afghanistan by the end of the month.
The move could pave the way for the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.
US Defence Secretary Mark Esper earlier said the two sides had negotiated a plan to reduce violence over the next week.
*)Erdogan addresses joint session of Pakistanâs parliament
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed a joint session of Pakistan's parliament for a record fourth time.
Erdogan, who is on a two-day official visit, will also meet the Pakistani business community and later hold talks with Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Both countries are expected to announce a joint declaration and sign several agreements on enhancing bilateral relations.
*)Shelling wounds at least 19 children in Myanmarâs Rakhine â authorities
At least 19 children were wounded when a primary school was hit by shelling in Myanmar's Rakhine state.
Artillery fire hit the school in Khamwe Chaung village in Buthidaung township.
A military spokesman blamed the Arakan Army for the attack but the insurgent group denied responsibility.
And finally,
*)Fires in Australiaâs NSW contained for the 1st time in nearly 6 months
Fires across Australia's most populous state have now been contained for the first time in nearly six months.
Australia has been battling hundreds of blazes since September.
Blazes across the country have razed nearly 12 million hectares of bushland, killing 33 people and an estimated 1 billion animals.
*) Virus death toll surges as China changes way it counts cases
China has adopted a new methodology for clinically diagnosing the novel coronavirus.
The communist party has removed both the top leaders of Hubei province and Wuhan city.
The move came after Hubei reported 242 coronavirus deaths in one day â the biggest one-day tally since the outbreak.
The total death toll from the virus now stands at more than 1,362 with nearly 60,000 cases.
*) Will target Syrian forces anywhere if Turkish troops hurt â Erdogan
Turkeyâs President Erdogan has said Syrian regime forces will not be safe if Turkish troops are killed or injured.
Erdogan added Turkey is determined to push back Syrian regime forces from observation posts in Idlib by end-February.
The Turkish president also discussed the latest developments in Idlib with his Russian counterpart.
*) UN list targets firms linked to Israeli settlements
The United Nations Human Rights Office has identified businesses that are complicit in violating Palestinian human rights.
The report lists more than 100 companies operating in Israel's illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank
The list includes firms like Airbnb, Expedia, TripAdvisor, Booking.com, Opodo, Motorola and General Mills.
*)UN Security Council calls for lasting ceasefire in Libya
The UN Security Council has adopted a resolution calling for a "lasting ceasefire" in war-torn Libya.
The text, drafted by Britain, was approved by 14 votes out of 15, with Russia abstaining.
The resolution also expressed "concern over the growing involvement of mercenaries in Libya."
And finally,
*)Artist scraps plans for Thunberg mural after boycott threats
A North Dakota artist says he has scrapped plans for a mural honouring Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Shane Balkowitsch had planned to install a 2.1-metre tall mural of Thunberg on the brick exterior wall of a bakery.
But he backed down after threats of boycotts and possible vandalism against the host business.
*)China's novel virus cases fall again
The number of new cases of the novel coronavirus has dropped as the death toll continues to climb.
On Wednesday, China reported 97 more deaths, bringing the total death toll to 1,113.
The World Health Organization has renamed the disease âCOVID-19â.
*)US Syria envoy in Ankara for talks over escalating violence
US envoy for Syria James Jeffrey has arrived in Ankara to discuss the recent flare-up of violence between the regime and Turkey.
The escalation is threatening to pull Turkey into an all-out confrontation with Syria.
Turkey's Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, who is attending a NATO meeting, has called on the alliance and Europe to help stop the regime's attacks.
The violence has displaced more than 700,000 people, with many of them making their way toward the Turkish border in bitter cold.
*)Palestinians echo rejection of Trump's proposal at the UN
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has rejected US President Trump's Middle East peace plan at the United Nations.
Abbas compared Trumpâs map for Palestinians to âSwiss cheese.â
Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert, who was also at the UN, said the US Middle East plan was "a start".
*)Sanders wins New Hampshire primary
US Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders has won the New Hampshire state primary, closely followed by Pete Buttigieg.
Sanders bagged 26 percent of the votes.
The senator from Vermont described his win as âthe beginning of the end for Donald Trump".
And finally,
*)Weinstein defence rests case in rape trial
Former movie producer Harvey Weinstein will not testify in his own defence at his rape trial and his lawyers have rested their case.
This has paved the way for closing arguments and what is expected to be a complex jury deliberation.
Since testimony began in January, six women have taken the stand in New York to say they were sexually assaulted by Weinstein.
*)China confirms second virus death outside of epicentre
China confirms a second coronavirus death outside Hubei province in the epicentre, bringing the death toll to at least 25.
More than 830 people are infected. Nearly a dozen cities in central China are under lockdown, as officials try to contain the coronavirus.
Cases have been reported in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan and the US.
The World Health Organization has held back on declaring the flu-like virus a global emergency.
*)Trump abused power like no other president â Democratsâ case
Democratic prosecutors made an expansive case at Donald Trumpâs impeachment trial that he abused power like no other president in history.
Prosecutors argued that Trump abused power for personal gain, swept up by a âcompletely bogusâ Ukraine theory.
On Friday, Democrats will press their final day of arguments, focusing on the second article of impeachment: obstruction of Congressâ investigation.
*)'Sopranos' actor says Weinstein raped her in mid-1990s
A New York court has heard gruesome testimony from actor Annabella Sciorra, who says Harvey Weinstein raped her 25 years ago.
Sciorra is one of 80 women who have come forward since 2017 with allegations of sexual assault against the disgraced movie producer.
Weinstein could face life in prison in New York state if convicted of being a serial sexual predator.
*)UN court orders Myanmar to protect Rohingya from genocide
The UN's highest court has ordered Myanmar to take urgent measures to prevent genocide against the country's Rohingya Muslim minority.
The International Court of Justice made the initial ruling on a case brought against Myanmar by the Gambia.
Myanmar and its army are accused of carrying out a systematic campaign of elimination against the Rohingya.
And finally,
*)Grammys set to honour music's best as scandal overshadows gala
Los Angeles is gearing up for the Grammys as the Recording Academyâs former head, Deborah Dugan, filed a discrimination complaint.
Dugan says she was suspended after raising concerns over sexual harassment, voting irregularities and other misconduct within the Academy.
The Academy, which has accused Dugan of misconduct, says it has launched an investigation.
*)Deadly virus kills four in China and infects over 200
A fourth person has died from a new strain of the coronavirus in China.
The deadly outbreak has infected over 200 people, with cases reported in Japan, Thailand and South Korea.
The World Health Organization has called an emergency meeting to discuss the outbreak.
*)McConnell proposes swift impeachment trial with long days
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell has released his proposal for a speedy impeachment trial.
But Democrat leader Chuck Schumer calls the proposal an attempt at a cover-up.
Meanwhile, Trump rejected the impeachment charges and called for its immediate dismissal.
*)Clashes erupt between migrants and Mexican authorities
Mexican security forces fired tear gas at a large caravan of Central American migrants as they tried to cross a river between Guatemala and Mexico.
Mexican authorities say they've detained over 400 migrants from the clashes.
US President Donald Trump has threatened to 'punish' Mexico and Central American countries economically if they fail to curb migrant flows.
*)Huawei CFO extradition hearing begins
The extradition hearing of Huawei's Chief financial officer has started in Vancouver.
Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada and a month later, the US indicted her for breaching US sanctions on Iran and moved for her extradition.
The 47-year-old denies the charges, saying that her alleged conduct was not illegal in Canada, as the country didn't have sanctions against Iran at the time.
And finally,
*)Retailers slash prices of Harry and Meghan merchandise
The price of souvenirs with Harry and his wife, Meghan, are being slashed just days after their split from the British monarchy.
From bobbleheads to mugs and t-shirts, British gift shops are trying to clear their stock.
Shop owners say suppliers plan to stop production because the couple is no longer part of the royal family.
*)Libya peace talks in Moscow fall short of ceasefire deal
Libya's warring sides draft an agreement aimed at a ceasefire after months of fighting.
While the UN-recognised government of Tripoli has signed, warlord Khalifa Haftar had requested until Tuesday, to decide.
Russian foreign ministry confirmed that Haftar left Russia after the talks adjourned for the night, and his militia said they are âready to achieve victoryâ in the conflict.
*)US drops designation of China as currency manipulator
US Treasury Department says it no longer considers China a currency manipulator.
The announcement comes before the inking of a deal that could end eighteen months of trade disputes between the two massive economies.
In the past, the US has insisted that China held the value of its currency artificially low, and that gives China an unfair advantage over US goods.
*)US expels 21 Saudi cadets after Florida 'terrorism' probe
The US expels 21 Saudi Arabian air cadets, following a probe into a deadly shooting at a Florida naval base.
Last month, a Royal Saudi Air Force trainee at Pensacola Naval Air Station shot and killed three US sailors.
The expelled cadets did not aid the attacker, but were in possession of child porn and anti-American content.
*)Son of Iranian opposition leader arrested
Iran arrested the son of a prominent opposition politician, amid growing protests across the country.
Hossein Karroubi was taken into custody by police after his father Mehdi, called on Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to step down.
Student protests have been growing since Iran admitted it shot down a Ukrainian passenger plane on January 8, killing all 176 on board.
And finally,
*)Oscars under fire for lack of diversity
And finally,
The Academy is once again slammed for not nominating enough female directors and ethnic minorities.
Two-thirds of Oscar nominees are men, with films made by or are about white males.
Only one actor of colour features in four acting categories as efforts to increase diversity seem to have failed.
*)Protests against Iranâs downing of plane continues
Iranian protesters continue calling for the government to stand down after it shot down a Ukrainian passenger plane, killing all 176 on board.
Demonstrators are angry at the countryâs attempts to cover up the truth after only admitting to the incident three days later.
Meanwhile, Canada says itâll âpursue justice and accountabilityâ after 57 of its citizens were killed on the plane.
*)Libyan warring factions to sign peace deal in Moscow
Libya's UN-recognised GNA government and warlord Khalifa Haftar are expected to sign a ceasefire deal in Moscow.
The signing of the agreement is said to pave the way for the revival of the political process.
Meanwhile, both sides are accusing each other of violating a ceasefire that was brokered by Turkey and Russia over the weekend.
*)Assad regime accused of breaking ceasefire
Syria's Assad regime is accused of violating a ceasefire deal which was brokered by Turkey and Russia.
Maarat al Numan and some nearby villages in Idlib province were shelled early on Sunday by the regime.
Hundreds of thousands from Idlib are fleeing regime attacks, with most moving toward Turkeyâs border.
*)Volcano erupts in the Philippines
The Taal volcano in the Philippines spewed lava and sent giant ash plumes into the sky as it erupted.
About 8,000 people were evacuated and flights from the capital Manila, have partially been suspended.
Officials raised the alert level, fearing a possible hazardous eruption within hours or days.
And finally,
*)Red tide parasite killing rare turtles in Mexico
Conservationists are rushing to save green turtles on Mexico's Oaxaca coast.
A red tide parasite killed almost 300 of the rare species in the past month.
So far, 27 sick turtles have been rescued and will be nursed before being released back into the ocean.
*)Ukraine leader doesnât rule out missile in plane crash
Ukraineâs President Zelenskiy said the possibility a missile downed a Ukrainian Boeing over Iran, killing all on board, has not been ruled out.
Iran has denied that the plane was hit by a missile.
A US official, citing an extensive review of satellite data, said Washington has concluded with a high degree of certainty that missiles brought the plane down.
*)US House votes to limit Trump war powers
The US House of Representatives passed a resolution to stop President Donald Trump from further military action against Iran.
The rebuke to Trump comes days after he ordered a drone strike in Iraq that killed a top Iranian commander and raised fears of war.
There have been protests in most major US cities against American interventionists policies on Iraq and Iran.
*)Indiaâs top court orders review of all curbs in Kashmir
Indiaâs Supreme Court has ordered reviewing all restrictions, including a five-month-long internet shutdown, in India-administered Kashmir.
The court described the restrictions as unconstitutional.
The right to the internet is fundamental, guaranteed under the constitutionâs the right to freedom of speech and expression, Indiaâs top court said.
*)Libyan warlord Haftar rejects call for ceasefire
Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar said his militia will not let up in its military campaign against the UN-backed government in the capital Tripoli.
Haftar appeared to be rejecting a call by Russia and Turkey for a truce in Libya.
At a recent meeting in Turkey, Russian President Putin and Turkish President Erdogan had called for a ceasefire in Libya, starting January 12.
And finally,
*)Australian animals face extinction threat as bushfire toll mounts
Wildlife and animal groups are worried Australiaâs hellish fires are irreparably devastating the animal and insect population.
Haunting images of koalas with singed fur, possums with burnt paws or countless charred kangaroo carcasses have flashed around the world
But the less visible, such as frogs, insects, invertebrates and reptiles, are also expected to have been devastated.
Experts warn even those animals who survive face a perilous fight to stay alive.
*)Trump takes a step back from further escalation with Iran
The US and Iran appear to be stepping back from possible war as President Trump hinted he was not going to retaliate to Iranâs attack on US forces in Iraq.
By late Wednesday, it was clear no one was harmed in the strikes, but US forces in the region remained on high alert.
The crisis with Tehran spiralled after Trump authorised the assassination of Iranâs top general, Qasem Soleimani.
*)Iran probe says Ukrainian jet was on fire before crash
Ukraine is in mourning today after a Boeing plane crashed killing 176 people from seven countries.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the government was considering several possible causes for why the plane crashed shortly after takeoff in Iran.
The Ukrainian airliner was on fire immediately before it crashed, an initial report by Iranian investigators said.
*)Leaders of Turkey, Russia urge January 12 ceasefire in Libya
Turkish President Erdogan and Russian President Putin have called for a ceasefire in Libya on January 12.
In a statement, the two leaders said an immediate ceasefire is a top priority to start an inclusive intra-Libyan political process under the UN.
Meanwhile, EU officials also intensified diplomatic efforts to cool tensions in the North African nation by holding talks with its prime minister.
*)Australia bushfires flare as heatwave brings renewed misery
Over to Australia, where bushfires continue to flare as a heatwave expected to bring renewed misery set in.
Soldiers went door-to-door advising residents to leave Parndana town on Kangaroo Island after a large blaze bore down on the area.
In Victoria, officials extended a âstate of disasterâ ahead of scorching temperatures due to set in Friday, further stoking massive fires.
The bushfires have killed at least 26 people, 1.25 billion animals and scorched an area the size of Ireland.
And finally,
*)Meghan Markle and Harry to âstep backâ from royal family
American TV star Meghan Markle and her husband Prince Harry say they plan âto step backâ as senior members of Britainâs royal family.
Harry and Meghan intend to become financially independent and to balance their time between the UK and North America, a Buckingham Palace statement said.
Needless to say, the announcement caused quite a kerfuffle in the royal family.
Daily News Brief for Wednesday, January 8th:
*) Ukraine passenger jet crashes in Iran, killing at least 170
A Ukrainian passenger plane has crashed near Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport, killing at least 170 people.
Iranian authorities say a fire struck one of the Boeing 737-800âs engines which is an older model of the Boeing 737 MAX.
The plane underwent its last technical maintenance on January 6, 2020,â Ukraine International Airlines said.
*) Iran fires missiles at US troop bases in Iraq
Staying with Iran, it has carried out retaliatory, ballistic missile strikes on US troops at Ain al Asad military base in Anbar and a base in Erbil in Iraq.
Iran said it has now ended its reprisal over the US drone strike that killed its General Qasem Soleimani.
Soleimani was buried shortly before the attacks.
His burial was postponed when at least 50 people were killed in a stampede at his public funeral in Kerman.
*) Haftar forces take Libyaâs Sirte
Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar's militia has seized the coastal city of Sirte from the UN-backed Government of National Accord.
Haftar has set his eyes on Tripoli, launching an offensive on the capital in April to unseat the GNA.
The UN-recognised Government of National Accord had taken back control of Sirte from Daesh in 2016.
*) Australia braces for more bushfires
To Australia now, where officials have warned people to evacuate Victoria state ahead of another heatwave.
There are fears the heat would trigger intense bushfires that have already destroyed eight million hectares of land and sent smoke clouds to Brazil.
An estimated one billion animals have died, more than 2,000 homes destroyed and 26 people killed.
And finally,
*) Facebook to ban âdeepfakeâ videos
Facebook says it is banning âdeepfakeâ videos in an effort to fight online manipulation.
Deepfake videos are false but realistic clips created with artificial intelligence and sophisticated tools.
But the new rules won't include parody or satire, or clips edited just to change the order of words.
*)Pentagon denies withdrawing US troops from Iraq
The Pentagon denies reports of a possible US troop withdrawal from Iraq.
The denial comes after a letter believed to be from the US task force in Iraq, to the Iraqi defence ministry, was leaked.
The letter is reported to have said the US is preparing to withdraw, after Iraq's Parliament passed a resolution on the expulsion of foreign troops from its soil.
*)Soleimani buried in his hometown
The body of Qasem Soleimani was buried in his hometown of Kerman in Iran.
Thousands gathered to pay their respects to the assassinated military general.
Hundreds of thousands also attended a mass funeral prayer in capital, Tehran on Monday.
*)GNA repels attack from Haftar in Sirte
Moving to Libya now, where the UN-backed government says its army has repelled attacks by Khalifa Haftar's militia in Sirte.
The government had taken back control of the city from Daesh in 2016.
Haftar's forces have been waging an offensive against the government since April.
*)Bolton will testify if subpoenaed
Former US national security adviser John Bolton says he's prepared to testify if subpoenaed in Senateâs impeachment trial of President Donald Trump.
Bolton says he's trying to meet his obligations both as a citizen and a former national security adviser.
Democrats have been pressing for Bolton and three senior administration officials to testify as part of the Senate trial.
And finally,
*)Ankara sees first snowfall of 2020
Snow, combined with falling temperatures, turned Ankara's roads into skating rinks.
Turkey's capital received its first snowfall for 2020 as a powerful weather system moves over the area.
Istanbul on the other hand is getting unprecedented rainfall, with a risk of flooding.
Monday, January 6, 2020
Iran mourns as it pulls out completely from the 2015 nuclear deal, and awards season begins in Hollywood
This is TRT Worldâs Daily News Brief for Monday, January 6th.
*)Iran pulls out from 2015 nuclear deal
Iran has announced it is lifting all limits placed on its uranium enrichment programme, as decided under the 2015 nuclear deal.
Tehran's move follows the Pentagon's assassination of Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi commander Abu Mahdi al Muhandis.
On Sunday, thousands of mourners packed the streets of Tehran for Soleimaniâs funeral.
*)Australia commits more than $1 billion to wildlife recovery
Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has committed $1.4 billion to help the country recover from bushfires.
The money will be used over two years to rebuild devastated towns.
At least two people have gone missing, 24 people were killed and more than 2,000 homes have been destroyed by the blazes.
*)Turkish troops deployed to Libya
Turkish military units have started moving to Libya to support Libyaâs UN recognised government in Tripoli, according to Turkeyâs President Erdogan.
The deployment follows deals that Libya and Turkey struck last November on maritime boundaries in the eastern Mediterranean, and on military cooperation.
Forces loyal to Libyaâs government are trying to prevent warlord Khalifa Haftar and his illegal militia from capturing the capital Tripoli.
*)Weinstein faces life in prison over sexual assault charges
Harvey Weinstein has reached a tentative $25 million settlement with his accusers in a civil lawsuit.
This comes as the media mogul's criminal trial begins today with him facing life in prison.
Weinstein is being tried on charges of sexual assault involving two women, but around 80 women accuse him of misconduct.
And finally,
*) â1917,â âOnce Upon a Time⦠in Hollywoodâ win Golden Globes
The 77th Golden Globe Awards have been held in Los Angeles â with Joaquin Phoenix and Renee Zellweger winning Best Actor awards.
South Korean movie "Parasite" took home the award for best foreign-language film, while Sam Mendesâ â1917â bagged the most prizes.
"Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood," "Joker," "Knives Out" and "Marriage Story" also received nods of approval.
And thatâs your daily news brief from TRT World ... for more, head to TRTWorld.com.
Daily News Brief for Friday, January 3rd:
*)Top Iran commander Qasem Soleimani killed in US strike
The US has killed the head of Iranâs elite Al Quds force Qasem Soleimani in an air strike near the international airport in Iraqâs Baghdad.
Abu Mahdi al Muhandis, a Hashd al Shaabi leader, an Iraqi paramilitary force closely allied with Iran, was also killed in the attack.
Iran has vowed âsevere revenge,â saying Soleimani was killed by "the most cruel of those on earth".
*) Mass evacuations in Australia as weather threatens more fires
The Australian navy has begun evacuating around one thousand people stranded on the east coast of the fire-ravaged country.
This comes as weather this weekend threatens to push more fires with high temperatures and strong winds.
At least 20 people have died, dozens are missing, and more than 1,300 homes have been damaged as fires burned an area nearly double the size of Belgium.
*) Turkish parliament ratifies Libya troop deployment
Turkeyâs parliament has approved the deployment of troops to Libya with a 60 percent majority.
The decision to send military assets came at the request of the UN-backed government in Tripoli, which is struggling to maintain its grip on power.
The Tripoli-based Government of National Accord is facing an incursion into the capital by warlord Khalifa Haftar's militia.
*) Indonesia plans cloud seeding as flooding death toll hits 43
Indonesia will carry out cloud seeding to prevent rain over capital Jakarta after deadly flooding and landslides.
Indonesia will shoot salt flares into clouds in an attempt to break up rain clouds over Jakarta.
This attempt at weather modification comes as floods and landslides have killed over 43 people and displaced tens of thousands.
And finally,
*) Female directors in Hollywood reach record highs in 2019
Women are inching closer to at least denting Hollywoodâs towering glass ceiling.
Women directors reached record levels in 2019 as they made up 10.6 percent of top movies with 12 directing top-grossing films, studies show.
These films include "Frozen II," "Captain Marvel" and "Hustlers".
Women comprised 20 percent of directors, writers, producers, editors and cinematographers on the top 100 grossing films of 2019.
*)Mass evacuations ordered in Australia
A heatwave fanning wildfires in Australia triggered mass evacuations in coastal towns.
Military ships and helicopters are also deployed to rescue trapped people.
A state of emergency has been declared in both New South Wales and Victoria states.
*)2019 civilian death toll in Syria
3,364 civilians were killed in Syria during 2019, Syrian Network for Human Rights says in its latest report.
The report claims 1,497 civilians were killed Syriaâs regime and allied militias.
Russian forces killed 452 and US-backed YPG/PKK terrorists killed 268.
The rest were killed by other terror groups.
The document accuses the regime and extremist groups of violating international human rights law.
*)Protesters withdraw from US embassy in Iraq
Pro-Iranian protesters have withdrawn from outside the US embassy compound in Iraqâs capital, Baghdad.
The demonstrations were in response to US air strikes which killed Iran-backed militants.
US and Iran have exchanged threats, but Iranâs supreme leader denied orchestrating violence at the US embassy.
*)Indonesia flooding kills at least 21
Indonesia is urging its disaster mitigation agency to prioritise peopleâs safety after severe flooding killed at least 21.
The agency says at least 19,000 people were evacuated after water levels rose in several provinces.
Authorities have in the last few years sought to improve the cityâs low-lying areas vulnerable to flooding.
And finally,
*)Legendary NBA commissioner David Stern dead at 77
David Stern, the man who turned the NBA into a $5 billion enterprise, has died at age 77.
When he became commissioner in 1984, the NBA was lagging behind other major US sports in profile and revenue.
But Stern focused his marketing vision on stars like Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, which turned the NBA into a global brand.
*)US to deploy troops to Iraq
The US is deploying 750 troops to its embassy in Iraq's capital, Baghdad.
The boost comes after the embassy was attacked by pro-Iranian protesters demonstrating against US air strikes on Iran-backed militia that killed a US contractor.
Washington says it will continue to take decisive action if its interests are threatened.
*)North Korea steps up nuclear programme
North Korea's Kim Jong-un says his country will introduce a new nuclear weapon in the near future.
His remarks come after the US missed a year-end deadline to restart denuclearisation talks.
Kim says there's no grounds for his country to be bound to any nuclear restrictions if the US continues joint military drills with South Korea.
*)Deadly wildfires kill at least 12 in Australia
Deadly wildfires in Australia's states of Victoria and New South Wales have decimated suburbs.
Residents now face the monumental task of rebuilding their homes and their communities.
At least 12 people have died since the bushfires broke out in September.
*)Hong Kong protesters to continue fighting
Protesters in Hong Kong welcomed the New Year by urging people not to give up the fight for democracy in 2020.
Police have been deployed in force across the city to quell any unrest.
Authorities cancelled the popular midnight fireworks for the first time in a decade, citing security concerns.
And finally,
*)Happy New Year!
Night skies around the world dazzled with fireworks and light displays to usher in 2020.
Billions cheered in the new decade after a thunderous year dominated by anti-government protests and action on climate change.
We wish all our listeners a less belligerent and more harmonious 2020.
*)Air strikes target militants after Somalia bombing kills dozens
US warplanes kill four al Shabab militants in Somalia, a day after a truck bombing in Mogadishu left nearly 80 people dead.
US Africa Command said two strikes killed two militants in Qunyo Barrow while a separate strike killed another two in Caliyoow Barrow.
No group has claimed responsibility for the deadly Mogadishu bombing.
*)Taliban council agrees to ceasefire in Afghanistan
The Taliban in Afghanistan denied agreeing to a temporary ceasefire.
The US have demanded a ceasefire before considering signing a peace deal.
A peace deal would allow the US to bring home troops from Afghanistan and end its 18-year war there - America's longest.
*)US strikes hit Iraqi militia blamed in contractor's death
US forces carry out what they say were âdefensive strikesâ against an Iran-linked militia group in Iraq and Syria on Sunday.
Iraqi security sources say at least 25 members of the Kataib Hezbollah were killed in the attacks.
Washington blames the Kataib for a series of attacks on joint US-Iraq military facilities that house American troops.
*)Suspect denies stabbing five at New York rabbi's home
Grafton Thomas has been arrested and charged with five counts of attempted murder in New York.
The 37-year-old is accused of stabbing five people at a rabbi's home during a Hanukkah celebration on Saturday night.
Ramapo Town Court ordered Thomas to be held in custody. He denied the charges.
And finally,
*)Mexico City zoo welcomes second baby giraffe of the year
The Chapultepec Zoo in Mexico City is celebrating its second baby giraffe of the year, already as tall as a full-grown human.
The female giraffe was unveiled last week after a mandatory quarantine period following her October 23 birth.
She will be named via a public vote to generate empathy with the little cow.
*)Plane crash kills at least 15 in Kazakhstan
The death toll is expected to climb from 15 in a deadly passenger plane crash in Kazakhstan.
The Bek Air flight, carrying 95 passengers and 5 crew, crashed shortly after take-off.
Officials say the aircraft lost height, struck a concrete fence and then a two-storey building.
*)Libya requests Turkish military support - officials
Libyaâs government has formally requested âair, ground and seaâ military support from Turkey, a Libyan official has said.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said earlier his country will send troops to Libya to join the fight against warlord Khalifa Haftar.
Deployment legislation is expected to be presented to Turkey's parliament early next year.
*)Netanyahu wins Likud leadership race
Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu has won a landslide victory in his Likud Party's leadership race.
Official results show the party leader of 14 years, claim 72 percent of the vote.
Netanyahu has failed to form a government twice this year and is under pressure to step down after being indicted on bribery and fraud charges.
*)Muslim traders killed by militia in CAR
At least 30 people were killed in fighting between Christian militia and Muslim traders in Central African Republic.
As many as 50 shops were burned down in the capital, Bangui.
A Muslim cleric says fighting began over taxes imposed on the Muslim traders by militia groups.
And finally,
*)Ancient Mayan palace discovered in eastern Mexico
Archaeologists discovered a new Mayan palace in eastern Mexico.
The palace in Kuluba is said to be from over 1,000 years ago and was used by Mayan elites.
Mayans reached their peak between 250 and 900 AD when they ruled large swaths of what is now southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize and Honduras.
*)Asia commemorates deadly tsunami
Countries around Asia are commemorating the 15th anniversary of the world's deadliest tsunami.
In 2004, an earthquake triggered 17-metre-high tidal waves that decimated the coastline of 14 countries.
Around 230,000 people were killed in a day.
*)Israeli warplanes retaliate to Gaza rocket fire
Gaza officials say Israeli warplanes attacked military posts belonging to Palestinian resistance groups.
The air strikes follow a rocket fired from Gaza towards a campaign rally held by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The rocket was shot down, but the rally was called off.
*)Turkey believes Tunisia can assist with Libyan stability
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Tunisia will make âvaluable and constructiveâ contributions towards establishing stability in Libya.
Erdogan and Tunisian President Kais Saied discussed a possible ceasefire in Libya during Christmas Day talks.
Libya's UN-backed government is currently under attack by warlord Khalifa Haftar.
*)Typhoon Phanfone brings kills at least 13
At least 13 people are dead after Typhoon Phanfone hit central Philippines over Christmas.
Thousands were evacuated ahead of the storm packing winds of 195 km/h.
The typhoon destroyed homes and disrupted power, internet and mobile services.
And finally,
*)Wisconsin firefighters face chilly challenge
A video of Wisconsin firefighters saving a puppy has gone viral.
The men can be seen carefully sliding across a frozen pond to reach Pepper, an 8-month-old German Shepherd, whoâd fallen in.
They broke through the ice and lifted Pepper out from the freezing water.
*)Militant attack kills 35 civilians in Burkina Faso
We start in Burkina Faso where a double terror attack has left at least 35 people dead.
Most of the victims of the militant attack were women. The government declared two days of mourning.
Burkina Faso has been struggling with armed militancy.
*)India approves funds for population survey amid protests
India has approved funds for a census and population survey, amid fears that the database could be used to build a discriminatory citizens register.
Nationwide protests continue across India against a new citizenship law widely seen as anti-Muslim.
Some of these protests have led to clashes between the police and demonstrators in which at least 21 people have been killed.
*)Turkey will take steps needed to stand with Libyans
âTurkey will not forsake the Libyan people,â Turkish Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said after a cabinet meeting in Ankara.
Support for Libya's internationally-recognised government could be in the form of troop training or political back-up, Kalin said.
Libya's Tripoli-based government has been fighting off a months-long offensive by warlord Khalifa Haftar's forces, which are based in the east.
*)Hong Kong police tear-gas protesters
Hong Kong riot police used tear gas to disperse protesters after scuffles broke out in two shopping centres on Christmas Eve.
Thousands of anti-Beijing protesters ââ some wearing Santa hats and reindeer horns ââ responded with flashmob rallies in the financial hub.
The demonstrations against Chinaâs involvement in the semi-autonomous territory look set to continue into 2020 as protesters press on.
And finally,
*)Christmas is celebrated globally
From Australia to the Americas, people around the world have begun to celebrate Christmas.
Pope Francis kicked off Christmas for the worldâs 1.3 billion Roman Catholics, urging them not to let the Churchâs failings distance them from God.
Pilgrims gathered at the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem, regarded as the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
*)Saudi court sentence five to death over Khashoggi murder
Saudi Arabia has sentenced five people to death and three to jail over the murder of critic and journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmanâs top two aides, thought to have played a more significant role in the killing, have been exonerated.
A UN investigator says Saudi Arabia made a âmockeryâ of justice by allowing the masterminds behind Khashoggiâs murder to go free.
*)Residents of NW Syria flee new regime offensive
Syrian regime forces continue to bomb Idlib, the countryâs last rebel stronghold.
Syrian troops have been pushing toward the town of Maarat al Numan which lies on a highway linking Damascus with Aleppo, Syriaâs largest city.
Idlib is home to 3 million civilians, and the UN has warned of the growing risk of a humanitarian catastrophe along the Turkish border.
*)Modi's party loses Indian state election amid protests
Indiaâs ruling BJP loses control of the eastern state of Jharkhand, with an alliance of the main opposition Congress Party.
The loss in Jharkhand comes amid deadly nationwide protests triggered by a citizenship law widely seen as discriminatory against Muslims.
The law has brought thousands of people out on to the streets in opposition and more than 20 people have died in the protests.
*)Bosnia gets a government
Bosnia's lawmakers have approved a central government after a 14-month-long deadlock.
Bosniaâs three presidents â an Orthodox Serb, a Catholic Croat and a Muslim Bosniak â spent a year arguing over relations with NATO.
Prime Minister Zoran Tegeltija, a Bosnian Serb economist, took power in a deal which saw the Serbs approve a reform plan demanded by NATO.
And finally,
*)Boeing ousts CEO Dennis Muilenburg
Boeing has fired CEO Dennis Muilenburg in the wake of the two fatal crashes of its bestselling plane, the 737 Max.
Chairman David Calhoun will take over as CEO, effective January 13, 2020.
Boeing recently halted production of new 737 Max aircraft, pending recertification for service.
*)Assault on Idlib continues
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is warning that there may be another refugee crisis in Syria.
The warning comes as strikes against Idlib province by regime and Russian warplanes continue.
The escalation in violence prompted a Turkish delegation to head to Russia to discuss the situation in Idlib.
*)Modi defends citizenship law
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is bullishly defending a new citizenship law, despite deadly nationwide protests against it.
At least 23 people have been killed since protests began earlier this month.
The law gives migrants fleeing persecution from neighbouring countries an easier path to citizenship, unless theyâre Muslims.
*)Australia's PM defends climate stance amid wildfire disaster
Australiaâs embattled prime minister defends his climate policy as authorities warn the wildfire crisis could fester for months.
Around 200 wildfires are burning across four states in Australia.
The disaster led to criticism that Prime Minister Scott Morrison's conservative government has not taken enough action on climate change.
*)Afghanistan's Ghani wins second term as president
After months of delays, Ashraf Ghani has won a second term as Afghanistan's president.
According to preliminary results, Ghani secured just over 50 percent in September's election.
His main rival Abdullah Abdullah says he will contest the result.
And finally,
*)Reventador volcano erupts
Reventador, one of Ecuador's most active volcanoes, lit up the night sky as it shot out lava during an eruption.
It's located in Ecuador's northern Amazon region.
Sandwiched between Colombia and Peru, Ecuador has a total of 25 volcanic locations.
*)At least 3 killed in India protests
At least three people were killed in protests against a controversial citizenship law in India.
Demonstrations are taking place in at least 15 cities, despite a ban.
The law gives migrants fleeing persecution from neighbouring Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh an easier path to citizenship, but Muslims are excluded.
*)Unclarity over next move in Trump impeachment
It's still unclear what will come next in President Donald Trump's political future.
He's the third president in US history to be impeached and has been charged with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.
The Republican-controlled Senate has been asked to call more witnesses, but itâs likely that Trump will be acquitted.
*)Russian FSB agent killed in Moscow
A Russian FSB officer was shot and killed at the intelligence agency's headquarters in Moscow.
FSB says the attacker was also killed.
The motive for the attack is being investigated.
*)Protests continue despite new PM in Lebanon
Anti-government protests in Lebanon continue despite the announcement of a new prime minister.
Former education minister Hassan Diab was nominated by a majority of lawmakers.
He takes over as the country is going through its worst economic crisis since its civil war.
And finally,
*)Final Star Wars movie hits theatres
The final installment of the Star Wars saga hits theatres this weekend.
Hardcore fans have been camping out days ahead of its release in Hollywood.
The global phenomenon has delighted generations of moviegoers for more than 40 years.
*)US House votes to impeach Trump for abuse of power
Donald Trump has become the third US president in US history to be impeached by the House of Representatives.
Accused of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, Trump will now be tried in the Senate.
The impeachment vote followed a long-drawn investigation into whether Trump pressured Ukraine to dig up dirt on his political rival Joe Biden.
*)Protests against citizenship law spread in India
India braces for a day of massive protests as public anger grows over the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act.
Multiple protests are planned in the capital New Delhi.
A curfew has been imposed in the state of Uttar Pradesh and parts of Bangalore following violent protests.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court refused to delay the implementation of the new law which is seen as anti-Muslim.
*)State of emergency declared as bushfires rage in Australia
A state of emergency has been declared in Australiaâs state of New South Wales as a heatwave exacerbates bushfires.
Several blazes are burning out of control, with authorities warning the situation could become dangerous.
It comes as Australia sweltered through its hottest day on Wednesday, breaking Tuesdayâs record.
*)Muslim leaders gather in Malaysia for summit
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the fate of the world's 1.7 billion Muslims is no longer in the hands of five countries.
Erdogan was referring to the five permanent members of the UN Security Council during his speech at the Kuala Lumpur Summit.
More than 450 Islamic leaders and thinkers gathered in Malaysiaâs capital to find solutions to problems plaguing the Muslim world.
And finally,
*)Mesut Ozil deleted from computer game in China
China has deleted Arsenal star Mesut Ozil from a computer football game for condemning what he called Chinaâs persecution of Uighur Muslims.
Ozil, who is Muslim, accused other Muslims of staying silent over the issue.
Chinese company NetEase says it will remove Ozil from its three existing games including its most popular edition, PES 2020 Mobile.
*)Impeachment vote set for Wednesday as Trump lashes out
Donald Trump could become the third US President to be impeached if todayâs House vote favours his trial.
Trump said in a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi that he was being subjected to an "attempted coup" and a witch trial.
Trump is accused of attempting to force Ukraine to investigate his main 2020 re-election rival, Joe Biden.
*)US Congress authorises sanctions on Syria, Iran, Russia
US lawmakers have approved a bill that seeks to place new sanctions on Syria, Iran and Russia for alleged war crimes in Syria.
The sanctions could target Syrian security officials and companies doing business with the regime.
The bill is known as the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act of 2019.
UN urges 'reboot' of response to refugees as millions displaced
The UN has called on governments and businesses to 'reboot' their response to refugees.
The first-ever global refugee forum in Geneva discussed the issues involving more than 70 million displaced people around the world.
Participants hope the optimism and promises made at the forum will translate into concrete action.
*)Pakistanâs former president handed death penalty in treason case
In Pakistan, a special court has sentenced former military ruler Pervez Musharraf to death.
The court found him guilty of treason for suspending the constitution and imposing a state of emergency in 2007 while he was president.
Musharraf is now living in exile, but is expected to file an appeal. The ruling has been criticised by both the army and the government.
And finally,
*)Australia experiences hottest day on record
Australia has sweltered through its hottest day on record.
The country's average temperature on Tuesday was 40.9 degrees Celsius, beating the 2013 record of 40.3.
Bushfires triggered by a heatwave have killed at least six people and destroyed hundreds of homes across the country in recent months.
*)Third night of clashes as Lebanon puts off talks on new PM
Supporters of Lebanon's two main Shia groups clashed with security forces in the capital.
The groups were apparently angered by a video circulating online that showed a man insulting prominent Shia figures.
The third consecutive night of violence came after Lebanon's president Michel Aoun delayed talks on naming a new prime minister.
*)Erdogan in Switzerland to co-chair Global Refugee Forum
The first Global Refugee Forum kicks off in Geneva, with Turkeyâs President Recep Tayyip Erdogan co-chairing the event.
The UNHCR-hosted forum provides a platform for state officials to monitor the UNâs 2018 Global Compact on Refugees initiative.
Turkey hosts some 3.6 million Syrian refugees, more than any other country in the world.
*)Boeing says it will halt 737 MAX production next month
Boeing will temporarily stop producing its grounded 737 Max jet as it struggles to get regulatorsâ approval to put the plane back in the air.
The Chicago-based company said production would halt at its plant near Seattle, which has 12,000 employees.
The Max has been grounded since March after crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia, which killed a total of 346 people.
*)Qatar FM says talks with Saudi Arabia have broken stamelate
Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani says recent talks have broken a protracted stalemate with Saudi Arabia.
He said the country is willing to find a solution to prevent a potential future crisis with its rivals.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt cut diplomatic and trade links with Qatar in June 2017 over terrorism allegations.
*)At least 49 journalists killed worldwide in 2019 â RSF
And finally,
A total of 49 journalists have been killed across the world in 2019, Reporters Without Borders says, a âhistorically lowâ number.
They mostly died covering conflicts in Yemen, Syria and Afghanistan.
The watchdog also warned that the number of journalists murdered in countries supposedly at peace is still alarmingly high.
*)India protests spread over 'anti-Muslim' law
Fresh protests are expected across India over a controversial citizenship law, after days of unrest left six people dead.
The bill grants citizenship to all religious minorities from Indiaâs neighbouring countries, except to Muslims.
Critics say the agenda of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government conflicts with India's founding as a secular republic.
*)Turkey may close military base used by US Forces - Erdogan
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says that "if necessary" Ankara may close two military bases that station US soldiers in Turkey.
The comments came after the US Senate unanimously passed a resolution recognising Armenian claims on the events of 1915.
Ankara describes the deaths in 1915 as a tragedy in which both revolting Armenians and Ottoman forces suffered casualties.
*)Philippine quake knocks over building; 3 dead, 7 missing
Rescuers in the Philippines are scrambling to find seven people trapped inside a building that collapsed after a strong earthquake.
At least five people died in Sundayâs magnitude 6.9 quake that struck Padada and outlying rural towns, cities and provinces.
The southern Philippines region has been battered by three deadly earthquakes in recent months.
*)Protests turn violent for second day in Lebanon's capital
Dozens of people were injured in a clash between protesters and security forces in the Lebanese capital Beirut.
Security forces fired tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons to disperse hundreds of protesters for a second straight day.
Demanding a complete overhaul of a political system, protesters are angry about Saad Hariri's possible return to the post of prime minister.
And finally,
*)French New Wave icon Anna Karina dies at 79
Danish-French actress Anna Karina, muse of New Wave director Jean-Luc Godard, has died of cancer at the age of 79.
Karina made seven films with Godard, her partner at the time, including âUne Femme Est Une Femme'' (A Woman is a Woman).
She had won best actress award at the Berlin Film Festival for her role in the 1961 romance/drama.
*)Victorious Johnson says will 'get Brexit done on time'
Prime Minister Boris Johnson says Britain will leave the EU on January 31 following his sweeping election win.
The election result has been hailed a victory for English, Scottish and Irish nationalism.
After his defeat, Jeremy Corbyn said he would not lead the Labour party in any future general election campaign.
*)Vote set on Trump impeachment charges for Friday
US Democrats are set to vote on impeachment charges against President Donald Trump early on Friday morning.
The move came after the House Judiciary Committee abruptly postponed a vote on articles of impeachment.
The committee was debating two articles of impeachment accusing Trump of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress.
*)New Zealand volcano operation paused
Efforts to locate the two remaining bodies of the victims of a volcanic eruption on a New Zealand island are ongoing.
At least 16 people have died after the volcano erupted on White Island on Monday.
A total of 47 people were on the island during the eruption, including locals and tourists.
*)Algeria awaits outcome of election marred by unrest
Algerians are awaiting the outcome of a widely unpopular presidential election marred by unrest and a record low turnout.
Protesters defied a heavy police presence to hold a mass rally in the capital, Algiers, and small demonstrations in provincial cities.
The vote came almost 10 months into a protest movement that resulted in the ouster of the countryâs decades-long ruler, Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
And finally,
*)"Matrix" and "John Wick" sequels set for same date
Fans have proclaimed May 21, 2021 as âKeanu Dayâ, with release of sequels for âMatrixâ and âJohn Wickâ announced for the same day.
The scheduling by rival studios Warner Bros and Lionsgate appears to be a coincidence.
Canadian actor Keanu Reeves has surged in popularity in recent years in a phenomenon dubbed the "Keanuaissance".
*)United Kingdom votes to decide the fate of Brexit, again
Britain is voting today to elect a new parliament.
The election comes after chaotic Brexit negotiations led lawmakers to back Prime Minister Boris Johnson's call for a vote.
The results could pave the way for Brexit under Johnson or another referendum that could reverse the decision to leave the EU.
*)At least 71 soldiers killed in an ambush in Niger
In Niger, at least seventy-one soldiers have been killed in an ambush on a military camp west of the country.
The attack took place at a base near the border with Mali.
No one has yet claimed responsibility for the killings.
*)India's parliament passes contentious citizenship bill
India has deployed thousands of troops in the northeastern state of Assam after violent protests broke out over a controversial citizenship bill.
The new law will make it easier for non-Muslim minorities from some neighbouring countries to seek Indian citizenship.
Critics say it undermines the country's secular constitution by not offering protection to Muslims.
*)New Zealand continues to plan retrieval of bodies on volcanic island
In New Zealand, police will resume efforts on Friday to recover the bodies of those killed in the volcanic eruption.
Authorities have been cautious about embarking on another search on the island due to fear of another eruption.
The names of the nine people confirmed dead so far have been released.
And finally,
*)Ed Sheeran crowned artist of the decade
Ed Sheeran has been named the "UK's Official Number 1 Artist of the Decade" by Official Charts, after a record-breaking run of hits.
His global hit "Shape of You", which spent 14 weeks at number one in 2017, was also named Song of the Decade.
Previous recipients of that award include Paul McCartney and Justin Bieber.
*)World Court hearing on genocide Rohingya genocide begins
Myanmar is facing accusations of genocide in the International Court of Justice over its treatment of Rohingya Muslims.
The country's leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, is defending her nationâs actions in a three-day public hearing at The Hague.
More than 57 countries accuse Myanmar of trying to
destroy the Rohingya Muslims in 2017 by mass murder, rape and sexual violence.
*)Ukraine, Russia agree to a ceasefire
Ukraine and Russia have agreed to a ceasefire and an exchange of prisoners by year's end.
Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Vladimir Putin met for the first time at a special summit in Paris.
Russia annexed Ukraineâs Crimean Peninsula in 2014, triggering a war that has killed 14,000 people.
*)Second eruption imminent on White Island
New Zealand police have opened a criminal investigation after five people died and eight went missing, now presumed dead, in a volcanic eruption.
Dozens of rescued victims suffered severe burns to their bodies.
Authorities are evacuating White Island, as a second eruption is expected within the next 24 hours.
*)US war on Afghanistan was a waste â Washington Post
A trove of US government documents dubbed âThe Afghanistan Papersâ has been published in a report by The Washington Post.
It reveals how senior officials lied to show that Washington was winning the Afghanistan war.
The report says, the US had no clear mission or understanding of the regional dynamics of Afghanistan despite spending over a trillion dollars on the 18-year war.
And finally,
*)Flying cars ready for take-off, in next few years
Flying cars could be a reality within the next few years, according to a technological research firm.
A survey shows that investors are pushing billions of dollars into the electric air taxi industry.
Air taxis will fly low-level routes, especially from city to city, thus relieving traffic congestion on roads, and could be commercially rolled out by 2024.
Friday, December 6, 2019
*)French strike against Macron reforms enters day two
Protests against French President Emmanuel Macronâs planned pension reforms have entered a second day.
The first day of the strike saw giant rallies across the country coupled with walkouts that paralysed transport and closed schools.
Macron's government plans to push for a single pension scheme, which critics say would require everyone to work longer.
*)Pelosi pursues articles of impeachment against Trump
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says the House is moving forward to draft articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump.
In a televised speech, Pelosi accused Trump of abusing his power, saying that the countryâs democracy is at stake.
The impeachment probe focuses on a July phone call with Ukraineâs president, in which Trump pressed him to investigate his rival, Joe Biden.
*)Palestinians outraged over ICC report into war crimes
Palestinian officials are concerned over an ICC report which says stipends to victim families killed by Israel could constitute a war crime.
Palestinians have long paid stipends to the families of people killed or imprisoned as a result of fighting with Israel.
Palestinians defend the payments as a national duty but Israel argues the fund encourages the violence.
*)Indian police fatally shoot four suspects in gang-rape case
Indian police fatally shot and killed four men suspected of raping and killing a woman in the countryâs south.
Police said the men were in custody and were shot as they tried to escape during a re-enactment.
The burned body of the 27-year-old veterinary doctor was found last week by a passerby in an underpass in Hyderabad.
And finally,
*)Activists to rally for mass climate march in Madrid
Activists are set to demand urgent action on the climate crisis from world leaders attending the UN climate summit in Madrid.
Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg is set to take part in the protest.
The protest dubbed âFridays for Futureâ is a global student movement pushing for immediate action on the climate crisis.
*)NATO summit ends in acrimony
NATO leaders have wrapped up a summit that was meant to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the alliance.
Instead, their meeting was marked by the disagreements that have rarely been made so public.
Those contentious issues include funding, how best to confront terrorism, Turkeyâs role in Syria, and Chinaâs influence.
*) US Navy sailor kills two before shooting self at Pearl Harbor
A US Navy sailor shot and killed two people before fatally shooting himself at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, military officials said.
The motive of the shooting, in which one person was also injured, is not known.
The incident comes three days before the 78th anniversary of the Japanese attack on the historic naval base that led the US to enter the second World War.
*)UN says 58 migrants dead as boat capsizes off Mauritania
At least 58 people died after a boat, carrying around 150 migrants, capsized off the coast of Mauritania.
Confirming the death toll, the UN migration agency said survivors are being helped in the northern city of Nouadhibou.
This is said to be one of the deadliest disasters this year as migrants try to reach Europe.
*)Trump committed impeachable crimes - legal scholars
Legal experts say President Trumpâs actions seeking foreign interference in the US presidential election are grounds for impeachment.
Testifying at the House impeachment inquiry hearing, three experts say Trumpâs unprecedented conduct is evidence of impeachable offences.
Trump, attending a NATO summit in London, called the hearing a âjokeâ and âboring.â
And finally,
*)Turkey switches to plain packaging for tobacco products
Turkey will switch to plain packaging for cigarettes and tobacco products from December 5.
The Agriculture and Forestry Ministry says the move aims at curbing tobacco sales and discouraging smokers.
According to Turkish authorities, diseases attributable to tobacco use cause more than 100,000 deaths in the country annually.
*)Trump veteos measures blocking arms sales to S Arabia and UAE
US President Donald Trump has vetoed three congressional resolutions that barred arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and support to the Gulf countries in the Yemen conflict.
The move was the second veto of Trumpâs presidency.
The resolutions also served as a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's stance on last yearâs killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, inside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul.
*)North Korea fires two missiles into sea
South Koreaâs military said North Korea fired two short-range missiles into the sea in what is Pyongyangâs first weapon launch in more than two months.
While Japan said North Korea's missile test launches are probably a violation of UN Security Council resolutions, South Korea urged Pyongyang to stop acts that are unhelpful for easing tension.
Some observers say North Koreaâs intentions could be to express displeasure over a joint drill involving the US and South Korea planned for next month, and to show what would happen if diplomacy fails.
No Russia exoneration for Trump despite Mueller claims
Robert Mueller has not exonerated US President Donald Trump of obstruction of justice, as the former special counsel delivered a marathon testimony to Congress.
After two years of investigating possible collusion between Trumpâs election campaign and Russia, Mueller wasnât clear on whether the president had committed a crime.
He said Trump could still face justice after his term ends, but the president already declared victory over the probe that he described as an âembarrassment.â
*)Boris Johnson reveals UKâs new cabinet
Britainâs new Prime Minister Boris Johnson has swept out more than half of the cabinet ministers under Theresa May replacing them with leading Brexiteers.
Johnsonâs list includes Sajid Javid as finance minister, Dominic Raab as foreign minister, Priti Patel, as home secretary and his brother Jo Johnson as a minister for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
Johnson, who has vowed to deliver Brexit with or without a deal, will hold his first cabinet meeting today.
And finally,
*)Indonesia pardons woman jailed after reporting harassment
Indonesia's parliament approved an amnesty for a woman who was jailed after recording lewd phone calls from her boss.
President Joko Widodo had granted an amnesty to Baiq Nuril Maknun after she had exhausted all other legal avenues in the controversial case.
The case had caused outrage and warnings in the country that it could discourage victims of sexual abuse from speaking out.
*)Turkey slams US for excluding it from F-35 programme
Turkey has slammed Washington's decision to exclude it from the F-35 programme.
Turkey's Foreign Ministry says removing it from the programme over its purchase of Russia's S-400 defence system is not based on a legitimate reason.
The Trump administration claims the anti-air system could be used by Moscow to covertly attain secret information on the stealth fighter.
Turkey is one of the main partners and heavily invested in the progamme.
*)US House votes to block sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia
US Congress is heading for a showdown with President Donald Trump after the House voted to block him from selling weapons to Saudi Arabia.
Trump has pledged to veto the resolutions of disapproval that passed the Democratic-led House.
The Senate cleared the resolutions last month but, like the House, fell well short of a veto-proof majority.
Overturning a president's veto requires a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate.
*)Boeing to make $50M in payments to 737 MAX crash victims' families
Boeing will pay $50 million directly to the families of those killed by two deadly 737 MAX crashes in Indonesia and Kenya.
Another $50 million will be paid out to local governments and non-profit organisations to help families and communities affected by the crashes.
*)Suspected arson attack on animation studio in Japan kills over 20
Over 20 people were killed and 35 others injured after a suspected arson attack in Japan.
Police say a man came into an animation studio in Kyoto and started a fire in the three-story building.
Police are investigating a case of arson.
And finally,
*)Ebola outbreak in DRC declared a global health emergency
The deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has now been declared an international health emergency by the World Health Organisation.
The virus spread this week to a city of two million people.
More than 1,600 people have died since August in the second deadliest Ebola outbreak in history, which is unfolding in a region described as a war zone.
This is the fifth such declaration in history. Previous emergencies were declared for Ebola in West Africa, Zika in the Americas, the swine flu pandemic and polio eradication.