Four former Hong Kong lawmakers, Claudia Mo, Gary Fan, Jeremy Tam, and Kwok Ka-ki, were released after serving four years for conspiracy to commit subversion under Beijing’s national security law. They were part of the “Hong Kong 47,” arrested for participating in a 2020 unofficial primary poll aimed at boosting pro-democracy success in legislative elections. The poll was deemed a subversion plot by prosecutors, while critics argue it was a crackdown on democracy. The national security law, imposed in 2020, has significantly altered Hong Kong’s political landscape. Ava Sinclair 29/04/2025 6:30 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified following a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. India closed numerous tourist sites and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, while Pakistan is preparing legal action. Exchanges of fire along the Line of Control continue, with Pakistan claiming to have downed a drone. The UN urged de-escalation, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres offering support. Diplomatic measures include visa cancellations and border closures. India accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorism, which Islamabad denies, calling for a neutral inquiry. Noah Prescott 29/04/2025 6:30 pm
Trump’s return to the White House has been marked by attempts to fulfill ambitious promises, including peace in the Middle East and Ukraine, and new global trade deals. Despite his efforts, Trump’s approach has faced setbacks, such as Russia rejecting his Ukraine peace proposal and Canada’s election of a Liberal leader in response to his tactics. Critics, like Ivo Daalder, argue that Trump’s actions have eroded international trust. However, the administration remains optimistic about future diplomatic and trade successes despite declining approval ratings. Ava Sinclair 29/04/2025 3:00 pm
Cardinal Angelo Becciu announced he will not participate in the upcoming conclave to elect a new pope, citing the “good of the church.” Becciu, once a leading papal contender, fell from grace in 2020 due to financial misconduct allegations and was convicted in 2023. Despite being eligible to vote, he is listed as a “non-elector” by the Vatican. Becciu, appealing his conviction, initially claimed the right to participate but decided to respect Pope Francis’ wishes and not enter the conclave. Ava Sinclair 29/04/2025 3:00 pm
The College of Cardinals consists of 135 electors from 71 countries, with 108 appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting his aim to make the body less euro-centric and more international. For the first time, 12 nations have native Cardinal electors. Europe still holds significant influence with 53 Cardinals, but the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Oceania are increasingly represented. The youngest elector is 45, and the oldest is 79, with diverse age groups represented. This geographical diversity highlights the global impact of the Pope’s role, though regional representation alone won’t determine the next Pope’s election. Ava Sinclair 29/04/2025 3:00 pm
On a day meant to celebrate Filipino culture in South Vancouver, a tragic incident occurred when a driver rammed his SUV into a crowd, killing 11 and injuring over 30. Franchesca Gabo, who left the festival shortly before the attack, returned for a vigil. The suspect, a 30-year-old man with a history of mental illness, is charged with murder. Among the victims were 5-year-old Katie Le and her parents, Richard Le and Linh Hoang. The motive is not believed to be terrorism. Penelope Kingsley 29/04/2025 3:00 pm
An American sailor suffered minor injuries when a $60 million F/A-18E Super Hornet fell off the USS Harry S. Truman and sank into the Red Sea during a Houthi attack. The incident occurred as the jet was being moved from a hangar, and the carrier made a hard turn to avoid fire. All personnel were accounted for, and the jet is considered lost. The Navy confirmed its strike group remains fully mission capable, and an investigation is underway. The Truman has been targeted multiple times by Houthi rebels. Noah Prescott 29/04/2025 11:30 am
Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar announced his resignation effective June 15, following a historic government vote to dismiss him. Bar cited loyalty to the state and accepted responsibility for Shin Bet’s failures on October 7. His resignation aims to ensure a smooth transition. However, his tenure is uncertain as the Israeli cabinet voted to dismiss him, a decision currently frozen by the High Court. Bar’s conflict with Netanyahu’s government, accused of politically motivated investigations, intensified after the QatarGate affair. Bar claims Netanyahu demands personal loyalty. Penelope Kingsley 29/04/2025 11:30 am
Pope Francis emphasized peace, freedom, and mutual respect throughout his life and pontificate. His choice of the name “Francis” reflected his commitment to peace and the poor, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi. He was the first Pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula and Iraq, fostering interfaith dialogue with leaders like the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. His ministry included significant actions like the “Document on Human Fraternity,” promoting Muslim-Christian relations. He boldly declared nuclear weapons immoral, underscoring his dedication to global peace and disarmament. Ava Sinclair 29/04/2025 11:30 am
A power outage in Spain and Portugal caused major disruptions, halting trains and affecting airports. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez declared a state of emergency. Power has been mostly restored, with Spain at 99.16% and Portugal fully recovered. Airports operated on backup generators, avoiding closures, but flight disruptions continue due to previous cancellations. Aena advises passengers to check transportation and flight statuses. Enaire reports air traffic control is back to normal in Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Ava Sinclair 29/04/2025 11:30 am
