Tropical Cyclone Zelia, a powerful storm equivalent to a Category 3 Atlantic hurricane, is approaching the Pilbara region in northwestern Australia. With sustained winds of 127 mph and potential gusts up to 180 mph, it threatens to cause widespread destruction, including flash flooding and coastal surges. The storm is expected to make landfall late Friday, prompting port closures in this economically crucial area. Some regions may receive over 19.7 inches of rain, posing significant risks to infrastructure and communities. Penelope Kingsley 13/02/2025 12:30 pm
A vehicle approached a police car at the rear of a Verdi trade union rally in Munich, then overtook and accelerated to the rally’s end. Police fired one shot at the vehicle and arrested the 24-year-old Afghan attacker, who has asylum seeker status. At least 28 people were injured, some seriously, though the exact number is still undetermined. Penelope Kingsley 13/02/2025 12:30 pm
Alternative for Germany (AfD) is poised for its strongest national election result, despite being unlikely to gain power soon. Founded in 2013, the far-right party initially opposed eurozone bailouts and gained momentum with anti-migrant sentiment in 2015. AfD has since capitalized on discontent over issues like fossil fuel policies, COVID-19 restrictions, and support for Ukraine. Despite controversies, including links to right-wing extremist discussions, AfD remains influential, shaping Germany’s political debate, particularly on migration. Noah Prescott 13/02/2025 9:00 am
Australian police are investigating a video allegedly showing two Sydney nurses boasting about harming Israeli patients. New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb condemned the incident as unprecedented racial hatred. The video, shared by Israeli influencer Max Veifer, features hospital staff making violent remarks about Israelis. Health authorities have suspended the nurses involved, identified as Ahmad Nadir and Sarah Abu Lebdeh. Officials found no evidence of patient harm, and the video’s authenticity remains unverified. Penelope Kingsley 13/02/2025 9:00 am
While attending a screening in NYC, I learned of Trump’s comments about the U.S. taking over Gaza. This shocked me, as Israeli forces had already devastated the area. My friend Ahmad from Gaza described people returning to live amidst rubble, which holds deep meaning for us. Trump claimed Gazans would have peace, ignoring the destruction caused by the Israeli military, supported by the U.S. He suggested Palestinians return only due to lack of alternatives, overlooking the complex realities and history of the region. Noah Prescott 13/02/2025 9:00 am
Representatives of Congo’s Catholic church met with rebel leader Corneille Nangaa in Goma, where his Rwandan-backed M23 forces have seized control. Nangaa’s Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) threatens further advances, raising fears of regional conflict. M23 now controls Ihusi, while Bukavu remains under Congo’s army. The church seeks dialogue and a ceasefire. President Tshisekedi is open to inclusive talks. Rwanda is accused of supporting M23, denying direct involvement. The conflict has killed thousands and displaced over a million since 2022. Noah Prescott 13/02/2025 5:30 am
European powers, including Britain, France, and Germany, insist on being part of any future Ukraine negotiations, emphasizing the need for a fair accord with security guarantees for lasting peace. A joint statement from seven European countries and the European Commission highlights the importance of Ukraine’s strength and European involvement in negotiations. Concerns arise as Trump and Putin discuss Ukraine’s future without European leaders. European ministers stress unity and cooperation with the US, emphasizing that no decision on Ukraine should exclude Ukraine itself. The Paris meeting focused on defense strategy and future peace talks. Penelope Kingsley 13/02/2025 5:30 am
The fragile cease-fire in Gaza is likely to end after 27 days, with fighting set to resume unless Hamas releases all hostages by Saturday. Currently, 31 hostages are held, and tensions rise as Israel and Hamas prepare for renewed conflict. Despite the high human cost, experts suggest Hamas and its backers may welcome a return to war, using the situation to gain leverage and concessions. Hamas has reportedly rebuilt its forces, capitalizing on public outrage over hostage conditions to pressure Israel. Their main demand is to maintain power in Gaza. Noah Prescott 13/02/2025 2:00 am
Talks between Austria’s far-right FPÖ and conservative ÖVP failed over government portfolio distribution, particularly the interior and finance ministries. The FPÖ, the strongest party post-elections, couldn’t form a coalition after ÖVP-led talks with SPÖ and NEOS also collapsed. The ÖVP blamed FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl’s “thirst for power,” while FPÖ cited constitutional issues. Disagreements include EU policy and asylum seeker treatment. President Van der Bellen may now ask the ÖVP to lead new coalition talks with SPÖ and NEOS support. Ava Sinclair 13/02/2025 2:00 am
Hamas faces tough decisions as Israeli military presence grows around Gaza and a ceasefire weakens. The group postponed releasing Israeli hostages, citing Israeli truce violations. Hamas wants the ceasefire to continue, urging mediators to ensure Israeli compliance. Concerns include Israeli public reaction to hostage conditions and Trump’s unpredictable policies, which complicate ceasefire progress. Trump demanded all hostages’ release, but Hamas dismissed this, considering options like delaying releases, risking renewed conflict, and worsening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, while maintaining leverage over Israel. Ava Sinclair 12/02/2025 10:30 pm
