Press freedom organizations condemned the killing of journalists Hossam Shabat and Mohammed Mansour in Gaza by Israeli airstrikes. Shabat, an Al Jazeera correspondent, was killed in Beit Lahiya, while Mansour, from Palestine Today, died with his family in Khan Younis. The Committee to Protect Journalists urged international action to protect journalists. The IDF claimed both were affiliated with Hamas, labeling them terrorists, a claim denied by Al Jazeera and Shabat. The IDF had previously accused Shabat of ties to militant groups, which he refuted. Noah Prescott 25/03/2025 10:00 pm
Hamdan Ballal, co-director of “No Other Land,” was beaten by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and taken by Israeli soldiers, according to colleagues. Co-director Basel Adra witnessed Ballal’s removal by military forces amid stone-throwing settlers. Israeli police and military were present, firing at those approaching. Co-director Yuval Abraham reported Ballal’s injuries and disappearance. American activists from CJNV also faced assaults by settlers wielding weapons. Video evidence shows damage to their vehicle, with Israeli soldiers reportedly not intervening. Noah Prescott 25/03/2025 10:00 pm
A U.S. intelligence report identifies China as the top military and cyber threat, highlighting its progress in capabilities to potentially capture Taiwan. China can target U.S. infrastructure, space assets, and aims to surpass the U.S. in AI by 2030. The report also notes Russia, Iran, and North Korea’s efforts to challenge the U.S., with Russia gaining insights from the Ukraine conflict. China’s military advancements include hypersonic weapons and cyber warfare assets, positioning it as a significant strategic competitor. Penelope Kingsley 25/03/2025 10:00 pm
Pope Francis, 88, faced a life-threatening situation while hospitalized with pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. He experienced four critical breathing crises, the worst on February 28 when he inhaled vomit. Doctors debated whether to continue treatment, risking damage to other organs, or let him go. His nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, urged them to try everything. Despite the severity, Francis wanted to know the truth about his condition. The medical team, deeply moved, ultimately decided to push forward, and he was discharged after more than five weeks. Penelope Kingsley 25/03/2025 10:00 pm
The Queensland Government announced the construction of a new National Aquatic Centre (NAC) in Spring Hill for the 2032 Olympic Games. The NAC will upgrade Centenary Pool and include two large indoor pools, an outdoor pool, dive towers, gyms, and amenities. This permanent facility replaces the initial plan for a temporary pool, following a proposal by aquatic sports organizations. With a seating capacity of 8,800, expanding to 25,000 for the Games, the NAC aims to support aquatic sports for decades, offering community and health benefits. Olympic champion Cam McEvoy highlighted its potential to inspire future athletes. Noah Prescott 25/03/2025 6:30 pm
Recent research by Cecilie Brøns reveals that Greco-Roman statues and temples were not only painted but also scented. Published in the Oxford Journal of Archaeology, the study uses literary sources and inscriptions from Delos to suggest that ancient sacred sites offered rich olfactory experiences. Ancient perfumes, unlike modern ones, were oil-based and applied like balms. The practice, known as kosmesis, involved adorning sculptures with perfumes, textiles, and jewelry. Inscriptions detail ingredients like sponges, oil, and rose perfume, popular since Homeric times. Ava Sinclair 25/03/2025 6:30 pm
The Israeli military issued evacuation orders for northern Gaza, displacing Palestinians who had returned home. Nearly 125,000 people have fled due to Israeli bombardment and ground operations. The UN reports over 14% of the enclave received evacuation notices. Residents, including those in Jabalya, face dire conditions with limited aid and high prices. Since March 18, Israeli attacks have killed over 792 people, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Penelope Kingsley 25/03/2025 6:30 pm
Despite US airstrikes, the Houthis claim their missile capabilities remain intact and continue attacks on Israel. A Houthi official stated their military strength is growing, and they remain committed to supporting Palestine. The Houthis have launched missiles almost daily since US strikes began, with some failing to reach Israel. They assert defending Palestine is akin to defending themselves and the Islamic Ummah, and they support Hezbollah. The Houthis warn regional countries about Israeli and US plots. Penelope Kingsley 25/03/2025 6:30 pm
Iwao Hakamata, a Japanese man acquitted after nearly 50 years on death row, will receive 217 million yen ($1.45m) in compensation, the largest in Japan’s criminal case history. Convicted in 1968 for murder, he was acquitted last year after a retrial revealed potential evidence tampering. His prolonged detention severely impacted his mental health. Released in 2014, he lived with his sister, who fought to clear his name. The case is one of Japan’s most notable legal sagas, highlighting issues within the justice system. Ava Sinclair 25/03/2025 3:00 pm
Pope Francis faced a life-threatening health crisis during a 38-day hospital stay for pneumonia, with doctors considering ending treatment. After a severe breathing crisis, his nurse urged continued efforts, leading to his recovery. Francis, 88, returned to the Vatican after overcoming four respiratory crises. He has been prescribed two months of rest to fully heal. His first public appearance post-hospital was on a balcony, marking a significant moment in his recovery. Noah Prescott 25/03/2025 3:00 pm
