A South African research team member at an Antarctic base accused a colleague of assault, prompting a response plan by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). The alleged perpetrator is cooperating with psychological evaluations. The DFFE is investigating further, including a sexual harassment claim, but has no plans to recall the team. The incident follows a history of similar issues, including a 2017 assault at another research base. The current team, stationed since February 1, remains in Antarctica. Noah Prescott 18/03/2025 10:00 pm
Maria Ressa welcomed Rodrigo Duterte’s arrest, seeing it as a sign that the rules-based order persists. Duterte, former Philippine president, appeared before the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity during his “war on drugs,” which reportedly killed up to 30,000. Ressa highlighted the role of social media in Duterte’s rise and its global impact, particularly in the US. Speaking from Berlin, Ressa participated in a “people’s court” examining social media’s role in misinformation. The tribunal, backed by rights groups, aims to promote international accountability. Penelope Kingsley 18/03/2025 10:00 pm
Footage shows a military-grade sonic cannon allegedly used by riot police to disperse peaceful protesters in Belgrade, Serbia, during a protest against government corruption. The incident occurred during a 15-minute silence for victims of a railway station collapse. The sonic weapon reportedly caused panic, headaches, nausea, and disorientation among demonstrators. Experts warn of the weapon’s potential to cause severe hearing damage. Calls for an independent investigation are growing, while President Aleksandar Vucic denies the claims, labeling them as false and inviting international agencies to investigate. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 6:30 pm
A South African Antarctic research team is in turmoil after an alleged assault at the remote Sanae IV base, 170km from the ice shelf. The incident follows earlier inappropriate behavior claims. The South African government is addressing the issue urgently. Team members, who undergo extensive evaluations before deployment, have requested rescue. The base, isolated due to harsh weather, typically hosts 10 researchers, including doctors and engineers. The assault reportedly stemmed from a task-related dispute. Such incidents are rare but not unprecedented in Antarctica. Penelope Kingsley 18/03/2025 6:30 pm
Germany’s Bundestag approved a reform of the ‘debt brake,’ allowing increased borrowing for defense, infrastructure, and climate investments. The CDU/CSU, SPD, and Greens supported the package, while the AfD, FDP, and Left Party opposed it. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the decision, highlighting its significance for European defense. AfD leader Alice Weidel criticized the move, warning of future economic consequences. Noah Prescott 18/03/2025 6:30 pm
Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia plan to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel landmines due to increased military threats from Russia. This decision allows them to stockpile and use landmines for border protection. The move comes amid concerns that a potential end to the Ukraine conflict could lead Russia to re-arm and target these NATO members. The 1997 treaty aimed at global disarmament, and the International Committee of the Red Cross expressed grave concern over the withdrawal. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 6:30 pm
Israeli jets bombed Gaza, breaking a truce mostly held since January. PM Netanyahu blamed Hamas for refusing to release hostages and rejecting US proposals. Israeli military noted increased Hamas activity. Despite the truce, over 140 Gazans have died since January. Netanyahu’s motives for resuming attacks are debated, with critics suggesting distraction from his legal issues. The January ceasefire, mediated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, involved phased negotiations, but progress stalled after the first phase ended in March. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 6:30 pm
A South African research team member at the isolated SANAE IV base in Antarctica is under psychological evaluation after allegedly assaulting and sexually harassing colleagues. The Sunday Times reported an email from a team member expressing fear for their safety and detailing the man’s threats. South Africa’s Ministry of Environment stated that officials intervened remotely, and the alleged perpetrator has shown remorse and cooperated with evaluations. The nine-member team, isolated until next year, faces harsh Antarctic conditions, with the next supply ship due in December. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 3:00 pm
In recent months, tensions have escalated between the Trump administration and the American judicial system, culminating in a constitutional crisis. Trump defied a federal judge’s order by deporting Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador without due process. The administration claims the court lacks jurisdiction over international actions, with officials arguing judges shouldn’t influence foreign policy. Trump criticized the judge, calling for impeachment, while his administration insists on continuing deportations. This defiance of court orders isn’t unprecedented for Trump and his team. Penelope Kingsley 18/03/2025 3:00 pm
A plane operated by Lanhsa crashed off Honduras’ Roatan Island shortly after takeoff, killing seven and injuring ten. The Jetstream aircraft carried 14 passengers, including a U.S. and a French national, and three crew members. Notable Garifuna musician Aurelio Martinez Suazo was among the deceased. Rescue efforts were captured on video, showing survivors being carried to safety. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and the airline has not commented. Roatan is a popular tourist destination known for its coral reefs. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 11:30 am
