A car rammed into pedestrians in Mannheim, Germany, killing at least one person and injuring several others. A suspect has been arrested, and an “extreme danger” warning was issued. Witnesses reported chaos, with people seeking shelter and ambulances on the scene. Mannheim University Hospital is treating three injured individuals, including a child. The motive remains unclear, amid a series of recent car ramming incidents in Germany. Penelope Kingsley 03/03/2025 6:00 pm
In Uttarakhand, India, an avalanche buried 54 construction workers in metal containers, killing eight. The remaining 46 survived nearly two days due to sufficient oxygen in the containers. Rescuers, including the Indian army and disaster response teams, conducted a 60-hour operation in sub-zero temperatures, using helicopters and drones. The workers, part of a highway expansion project, were saved by the containers’ protection. Many survivors are receiving hospital treatment. Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister praised the rescue efforts. Ava Sinclair 03/03/2025 2:30 pm
Arab League members will meet in Cairo on March 4 to address US President Trump’s threats to take over Gaza and Israeli PM’s intentions to resume conflict. Convened by Egypt, the summit aims to form a united Arab response respecting Palestinian rights and making Gaza habitable. The emergency summit follows Trump’s February 5 proposal to resettle Palestinians and redevelop Gaza, which Egypt rejected. Current tensions include Israel blocking aid to Gaza and stalling ceasefire negotiations. The summit will discuss a multi-phase plan for Gaza’s recovery, infrastructure rebuilding, and a political track for a two-state solution. Ava Sinclair 03/03/2025 2:30 pm
The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) has declared a ceasefire with Turkiye, following a call from its jailed leader Abdullah Ocalan to disarm. This move, reported by pro-PKK media, aims to end a 40-year conflict. The PKK hopes for Ocalan’s release to lead disarmament efforts. Turkiye’s President Erdogan welcomed the call as a “historic opportunity” for peace. The PKK, labeled a terrorist group by Turkiye, the US, and the EU, has sought a Kurdish homeland since 1984, with the conflict claiming over 40,000 lives. Penelope Kingsley 03/03/2025 11:00 am
Sir Keir Starmer announced a £1.6bn missile deal for Ukraine after a European leaders’ summit in London. A “coalition of the willing,” including France, is ready to commit troops if a peace deal is reached. Ukraine’s President Zelensky attended, with discussions on securing peace. Starmer emphasized unwavering support for Ukraine, linking national security to economic benefits for the UK. He plans to discuss a security guarantee with Trump, stressing the need for US backing. The UK is prepared to contribute militarily, aiming for a lasting peace in Ukraine. Penelope Kingsley 03/03/2025 11:00 am
In January, a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas brought hope after 15 months of conflict. However, tensions are rising as Israel’s new proposal, rejected by Hamas, threatens to reignite fighting. Hamas demands the original agreement’s second phase, including Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and prisoner exchanges. Israel proposes a seven-week cease-fire extension, requiring Hamas to release hostages. Despite agreeing in principle, both sides have conflicting visions, risking renewed conflict. Penelope Kingsley 03/03/2025 11:00 am
A terror stabbing attack at Lev HaMifratz Mall in Haifa left one man dead and several others wounded. A 70-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, with a stab wound to the neck and a gunshot wound to the foot. Four others were treated, including three in serious condition. The attacker, identified as Yitro Shaheen, an Israeli Druze, was neutralized by a security guard. The area is closed, and train services are disrupted. Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed condolences and vowed to combat terrorism. Ava Sinclair 03/03/2025 11:00 am
Top US officials are pressuring Zelensky to step down after a poor Oval Office meeting, while Europe strengthens ties with him, highlighting a major Western split. Trump’s administration questions Zelensky’s commitment to ending the Ukraine conflict, as Europe, led by the UK, supports him and proposes a peace plan. France and Britain suggest a limited truce, and European leaders aim to bolster Ukraine’s defenses. The situation underscores tensions between US and European approaches to the Ukraine war. Penelope Kingsley 03/03/2025 7:30 am
Following a tense exchange, Mr. Trump canceled a news conference with Ukraine’s leader, accusing Mr. Zelensky of being “not ready for peace” due to U.S. support. Trump’s threat to withdraw U.S. backing unless Ukraine accepted a U.S.-brokered peace deal signals a shift in American foreign policy towards Russia, alarming European leaders. Germany’s President Steinmeier expressed disbelief at the situation, highlighting concerns that a weak peace deal could embolden Russia and increase threats to Europe, prompting calls for greater European self-reliance. Ava Sinclair 03/03/2025 7:30 am
Europe faces a crucial week for its security following a London summit with promises but few solutions. Leaders, including Ukraine’s Zelenskyy, discussed America’s role in the Western defense alliance amid doubts after Trump’s verbal attack on Zelenskyy. European leaders question U.S. commitment, with EU’s Kaja Kallas suggesting America no longer leads the “free world.” U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized Europe’s responsibility in protecting Ukraine, hinting at a diminished U.S. role. Penelope Kingsley 03/03/2025 7:30 am
