Pope Francis is hospitalized with pneumonia, raising global alert for a potential papal death. Despite his health issues, he has planned a simplified funeral. Upon his death, a series of traditional Vatican events will unfold, including the camerlengo confirming his death and the destruction of his signet ring. This will lead to a nine-day mourning period, the Novendiale, and eventually, the election of a new pope. The process, steeped in tradition, involves progressive and conservative cardinals vying for leadership of the Catholic Church, which has a billion followers worldwide. Noah Prescott 20/02/2025 9:00 am
In their final debate before Germany’s federal election, Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) and Friedrich Merz (CDU) discussed key issues like the economy, migration, and public safety. With the election just days away, Merz’s CDU/CSU leads in polls, followed by the far-right AfD, with Scholz’s SPD in third. About 59 million Germans are eligible to vote on February 23. Despite the competitive race, both candidates shared light-hearted banter, hinting at potential cooperation. Ava Sinclair 20/02/2025 9:00 am
In recent weeks, tens of thousands of Palestinians have fled Israeli military operations in the northern West Bank, marking the largest displacement since the 1967 Mideast war. Following a crackdown on West Bank militants, Israeli forces intensified operations in Jenin and other towns, evoking memories of the 1948 Nakba. Over 40,100 Palestinians have been displaced, with humanitarian officials warning of deteriorating conditions in refugee camps. The situation is described as unprecedented, with infrastructure destruction rendering camps increasingly uninhabitable. Noah Prescott 20/02/2025 5:30 am
Nearly 100 migrants deported from the U.S. to Panama have been relocated from a hotel in Panama City to the Darien jungle region. Of the 299 deported, 13 were repatriated, while 175 remain in the hotel awaiting return to their home countries. The migrants, from various countries including Afghanistan and China, are supported by the U.S. through the International Organization for Migration and the U.N. refugee agency. This is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to increase deportations. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 5:30 am
In Magdeburg, Germany, emotions are tense ahead of the elections, especially after a tragic attack at a Christmas market. A young Muslim voter notes increased racism and a hateful atmosphere. Key election issues include migration, security, and the economy, with many voters still undecided. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 5:30 am
British archaeologist Dr. Piers Litherland discovered the first Egyptian pharaoh’s tomb in over a century, belonging to Thutmose II, in the Valley of the Kings. Initially thought to be a royal wife’s tomb, the ceiling’s Amduat scenes revealed its royal significance. Despite being empty due to flooding, small alabaster fragments identified the tomb’s owner. The discovery was made by a joint mission of the New Kingdom Research Foundation and the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, affiliated with the University of Cambridge. Ava Sinclair 20/02/2025 2:00 am
Clashes erupted in Uvira, eastern DRC, as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advanced, causing panic and chaos. Residents reported looting, bodies in streets, and government soldiers fleeing across Lake Tanganyika. The rebels’ move south from Bukavu, recently seized, intensified conflict with allied militia Wazalendo. Gunfire was heard, and over 100 were injured. Doctors Without Borders reduced staff due to violence. Over 500 Congolese police fled to Burundi. The situation remains tense with ongoing violence and humanitarian concerns. Ava Sinclair 20/02/2025 2:00 am
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will miss a G20 foreign ministers meeting in Johannesburg, criticizing South Africa’s policies as anti-American. Instead, Rubio returned to the U.S. after Middle East talks and discussions with Russia on Ukraine. He briefed European counterparts post-meeting with Russia’s Sergey Lavrov. The G20 meeting will include top diplomats from Europe, Russia, and China, with the U.S. represented by a lower-level delegation. Normally, such meetings are key for U.S. diplomatic efforts, especially early in a new administration. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 2:00 am
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum announced the deaths of Shiri Bibas and her children, Kfir and Ariel, abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Hamas claims they died in Israeli bombardment, but Israel hasn’t confirmed this. The children’s father, Yarden, was released earlier. Oded Lifshitz, a retired journalist, also died. The forum emphasized the victims’ cherished lives and called for urgent action to secure the release of remaining hostages and provide closure for families. Penelope Kingsley 20/02/2025 2:00 am
A new coalition of European nations is forming in response to President Trump’s alignment with Russia and criticism of Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy. Initiated by French President Macron, the group includes leaders from France, the UK, Germany, and others, plus NATO and EU officials. They oppose Trump’s stance, emphasize Ukraine’s involvement, and demand European security concerns be prioritized. The coalition aims to counter the U.S.-Russia dynamic and ensure European interests are considered in security discussions. Noah Prescott 19/02/2025 10:30 pm
