Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Authority, criticized Hamas as “sons of dogs” in a speech demanding they release hostages, disarm, and relinquish control of Gaza to end the conflict with Israel. Abbas accused Hamas of providing Israel with excuses to continue attacks. A Hamas official condemned Abbas’s language. Hamas rejected an Israeli ceasefire proposal, insisting on a full Israeli withdrawal and refusing to disarm. The PA, led by Abbas, has expressed readiness to govern Gaza post-war but faces criticism for inaction. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 3:30 pm
Pope Francis’s death initiates the process of selecting a new pontiff through the “conclave,” a secretive and ancient tradition. This event garners global interest as cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next Bishop of Rome. Historically, conclaves became secretive to prevent external influence and ensure focus. The term “conclave” originates from Latin, meaning a locked room, highlighting its ancient roots. Despite modern technology, the conclave remains a mysterious and traditional process, reflecting its historical significance in the Catholic Church. Penelope Kingsley 23/04/2025 12:00 pm
The International Coral Reef Initiative reports that 84% of the world’s coral reefs are experiencing severe bleaching, marking the most intense event in recorded history. This fourth global bleaching event since 1998 surpasses the 2014-17 crisis, affecting two-thirds of reefs. The current crisis, starting in 2023, is driven by warming oceans, with no clear end in sight. Coral reefs, vital for biodiversity, seafood production, tourism, and coastal protection, are threatened as prolonged warmth causes algae to release toxins, leading corals to expel them, losing their color and health. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 12:00 pm
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Istanbul, shaking buildings and causing residents to flee. The quake’s epicenter was in the Marmara Sea, 80 km west of Istanbul, at a depth of 6.92 km. No casualties have been reported yet, but the impact is still being assessed. Istanbul residents described it as one of the strongest quakes in years, with furniture crashing in homes. The city, home to 16 million people, is near the North Anatolian Fault Line. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 12:00 pm
The UK government borrowed £151.9bn last year, exceeding expectations and increasing pressure on public finances. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is seeking a US trade deal to avoid tariffs impacting UK exports. The borrowing overshoot may lead to spending cuts or tax hikes to adhere to fiscal rules. Despite sluggish growth and higher interest rates, Reeves aims to avoid borrowing for day-to-day spending. The IMF predicts lower UK growth for 2025. US Vice-President JD Vance indicated a “good chance” for a trade deal. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 12:00 pm
On April 23, suspected militants killed 26 people and injured 17 in Jammu and Kashmir, India, marking the worst attack in two decades. The attack occurred in Pahalgam, targeting tourists, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese. Prime Minister Modi cut short his Saudi Arabia visit, and Finance Minister Sitharaman returned from the U.S. and Peru. The “Kashmir Resistance” group claimed responsibility, citing demographic changes. Indian agencies link the group to Pakistan-based militants. Local protests and school closures followed, while airlines added flights as tourists rushed to leave. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 12:00 pm
Gunmen killed at least 26 people and injured others in a suspected terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, targeting tourists. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front, occurred in a remote area of the Baisaran Valley. Most victims were travelers, including a Nepali national and an Indian-origin person working in the Middle East. Survivors reported gunmen accusing them of supporting Indian PM Modi before shooting. Authorities are investigating the claim of responsibility by the militant group, which cited discontent over “outsiders” causing demographic changes. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 8:30 am
The next Pope’s election is unpredictable, with the College of Cardinals, 80% appointed by Pope Francis, meeting in conclave. This diverse group, with fewer than half being European, may elect a Pope with a broad global perspective. Key candidates include Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70, who served as Vatican’s secretary of state and is considered a frontrunner. The outcome remains uncertain, with potential for an African, Asian, or experienced Vatican administrator to be chosen. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 8:30 am
A terror attack occurred in Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Donald Trump expressed full US support for India, condemning the attack and offering condolences. He communicated with PM Modi, emphasizing justice for the perpetrators. US Vice President JD Vance, visiting India, also extended condolences. Russia, UAE, UK, Israel, and other nations condemned the attack, with Russia pledging increased anti-terrorism cooperation with India. Noah Prescott 23/04/2025 5:00 am
Israeli strikes on Gaza killed at least 14 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and destroyed essential equipment for clearing rubble. The strikes also hit Lebanon, killing two. Israel’s 18-month offensive against Hamas has devastated Gaza, exacerbating shortages of heavy equipment needed for rescue and road clearing. A strike in Jabaliya destroyed nine bulldozers provided by Egypt and Qatar. The Israeli military claims it targets militants, blaming civilian deaths on Hamas. A separate strike in Khan Younis killed nine, including four children, while another in Jabaliya killed three children and their parents. Ava Sinclair 23/04/2025 1:30 am
