Germany’s Bundestag is voting on increasing defense spending, crucial for Europe’s future defense and support for Ukraine. This decision comes amid Russia’s gains in Ukraine and signals from Washington that Europe can’t rely solely on US protection. Experts emphasize Germany’s pivotal role, as it holds the region’s largest defense budget. Last year, Germany’s defense spending rose by 23.2%, contributing to a record 11.7% increase in European defense outlay. Incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces opposition as the new parliament convenes on March 25. Noah Prescott 18/03/2025 8:00 am
Hamas accused Israel of resuming aggression in Gaza, with residents reporting intense strikes. The Israeli government, consulting with the White House, cited Hamas’s refusal to release hostages as the reason for military action. The cease-fire’s status is uncertain. Israel vowed increased military strength against Hamas. Gaza’s Civil Defense reported operational challenges due to simultaneous strikes. Mediators, including the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, are negotiating a permanent cease-fire. Noah Prescott 18/03/2025 8:00 am
NPR’s Rob Schmitz and Gaza producer Anas Baba reported on Nimer Sadi al-Nimer, an 11-year-old shot by the Israeli military while gathering food near Gaza City. After being taken to Israel for life-saving surgeries, Nimer returned to a refugee camp in Rafah, suffering from severe pain and untreated wounds. Despite the surgeries, he endured significant pain without medication. A year later, NPR lost track of Nimer, uncertain of his fate. Penelope Kingsley 18/03/2025 4:30 am
Donald Trump’s efforts to establish himself as a dictator hinge on undermining the U.S. rule of law. He has weakened Congress and seeks to control the executive branch by dismissing dissenters. The federal judiciary is seen as a crucial defense against his illegal actions, but the entire legal system, including principled lawyers, is vital. Lawyers have previously blocked Trump’s unlawful initiatives and debunked his false election claims. Now, Trump targets the legal profession, disparaging judges and pressuring honest lawyers. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 4:30 am
Israel launched extensive strikes on Gaza after Hamas refused to release hostages, with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz warning of increased military action. The strikes killed at least 131 people and injured over 300. Targeting Hamas leaders and infrastructure, the offensive will continue as needed. The IDF is prepared for expanded operations. The strikes follow Hamas rejecting a hostage deal. The White House confirmed consultation with Israel, and President Trump previously issued a warning to Hamas. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 4:30 am
Iran-backed Houthi terrorists have been attacking U.S. and other nations’ ships in the Red Sea, disrupting commerce. Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell announced that, under President Trump’s directive, U.S. Central Command launched precision strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen on March 15, 2025. These operations aim to restore navigation freedom and re-establish American deterrence. The Houthis have targeted U.S. military and commercial ships, threatening overseas personnel with missiles and drones. Penelope Kingsley 18/03/2025 4:30 am
Russia’s success in Kursk was due to concentrated drone firepower and tactics inspired by Ukraine, says military blogger Russian Engineer. Ukraine initially held 500 square miles of Russian territory, but Russia reclaimed it swiftly by revolutionizing drone tactics to target supply lines. This approach may be replicated elsewhere. In August 2024, Ukraine’s Blitzkrieg-like advance used electronic warfare and drones to disrupt Russian reconnaissance, allowing a rapid, unopposed advance. Russia eventually stabilized the front by deploying their own drone units. Ava Sinclair 18/03/2025 1:00 am
On 17 March 2025, His Highness the Aga Khan pledged €100 million over two years to aid Syria’s humanitarian and development needs at the European Commission’s conference. The event, co-hosted by EU officials, aimed to support Syria’s inclusive transition. The Aga Khan emphasized the need for peace and a pluralistic government. The conference included international representatives and built on the Paris Conference on Syria. The Aga Khan Development Network, active in Syria for over 25 years, has shifted focus to crisis response, impacting over two million people. Penelope Kingsley 18/03/2025 1:00 am
New Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, seeking support amid U.S. President Trump’s attacks on Canada. Macron emphasized strategic partnerships and did not address Trump’s actions directly. Carney’s visit to Paris and London highlights historical ties, as both cities played roles in Canada’s formation. After Paris, Carney will meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III in London. Despite tensions, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy praised Canada’s sovereignty. Carney will also visit Canada’s Arctic to affirm security and sovereignty. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 9:30 pm
Tensions between Lebanon and Syria have escalated after Syrian shelling hit Lebanese border villages, following the killing of three Syrians in Lebanon. The Lebanese military responded to the attack and is in contact with Syrian authorities to maintain border stability. Syria accused Hezbollah of kidnapping and executing Syrian troops, which Hezbollah denied. Lebanon’s presidency condemned the border tensions, urging military action. Syria’s new Islamist-led government, which replaced Bashar al-Assad’s regime, has pledged stability with neighbors but faces growing border clashes with Lebanon. Penelope Kingsley 17/03/2025 9:30 pm
