South Africa’s president faces calls for an inquiry into a police operation targeting illegal mining that resulted in 87 miners dying underground. The operation, “Close the Hole,” aimed to force miners out by cutting off supplies, leading to starvation and dehydration. A court-ordered rescue saved over 240 survivors, who were arrested. The tragedy at Buffelsfontein Gold Mine highlighted the dangers of illegal mining and the harsh tactics used by authorities. Rights groups criticized the lack of aid, with officials dismissing the miners as criminals undeserving of help. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 12:00 pm
JK Kim Dong Wook, a singer with Canadian citizenship, faces legal action for allegedly violating South Korea’s ban on political activities by foreign nationals. A viral social media post revealed a legal complaint against him, citing his opposition to President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment and organizing a rally. The complaint highlights his foreign status and past controversies, including criticism of former Justice Minister Choo Mi Ae and appearances on a right-wing YouTube channel. His vocal support for President Yoon amidst impeachment proceedings has drawn significant attention. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 12:00 pm
Three lawyers for Alexey Navalny, who died in a Russian prison, were jailed for several years for allegedly belonging to an extremist group. Tried secretly, Igor Sergunin, Alexei Liptser, and Vadim Kobzev received sentences of 3.5, 5, and 5.5 years. Prosecutors claimed they passed Navalny’s letters to associates. Human rights groups and Amnesty International condemned the verdicts as a crackdown on opposition and legal defense. Navalny’s widow and Amnesty called for their release, labeling them political prisoners. Navalny, a Kremlin critic, died in 2022 while serving a 19-year sentence. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 12:00 pm
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was reached as Biden left office, with Trump poised to claim credit. Biden’s team had engaged in lengthy diplomacy, crafting a proposal with Egypt and Qatar. However, Trump’s interventions, including a public demand for hostage release and pressure on Israeli PM Netanyahu, were pivotal. Critics argue Trump could have achieved this earlier by pushing Israel more. Recent developments, like Israel’s actions against Hezbollah, also influenced the ceasefire. Ultimately, Trump’s deadline and pressure were crucial in finalizing the deal. Penelope Kingsley 17/01/2025 8:30 am
Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England, announced his candidacy for leader of Canada’s Liberal Party. Launching his bid in Edmonton, Carney aims to succeed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who plans to resign. Carney, an economic advisor to Trudeau but not an elected official, positions himself as an outsider with financial expertise. He highlighted issues like housing affordability, stagnant wages, and climate change, while addressing potential US tariffs under President-elect Donald Trump. Carney intends to seek a parliamentary seat in the upcoming election. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 8:30 am
China’s population declined for the third consecutive year, reaching 1.408 billion by the end of 2024, a drop of 1.39 million. This trend mirrors global patterns, particularly in East Asia, where birth rates are falling due to rising living costs and career priorities. China’s aging population and low immigration exacerbate demographic challenges. Historically, China’s population surged post-World War II, but concerns over resource strain led to the “one child policy,” which faced criticism for its harsh enforcement. Despite efforts, gender-selective practices persisted, complicating demographic issues. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 5:00 am
The Laken Riley Act, named after a woman killed by an undocumented immigrant, aims to expand immigration detention and allow states to influence immigration policy. It has passed one house of Congress with bipartisan support, including 48 House Democrats and two Democratic senators. The bill mandates detention for immigrants accused of theft and allows states to sue over federal immigration policies. Proponents argue it enhances public safety, while critics warn it could strain resources, infringe on due process, and create constitutional issues by letting states dictate federal policy. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 1:30 am
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu delayed a cabinet vote on a Gaza ceasefire deal, accusing Hamas of seeking last-minute changes. Despite Israeli negotiators agreeing to the deal, it requires cabinet approval. Hamas reportedly wants to add members to a prisoner release list. US Secretary of State Blinken expressed confidence the ceasefire would start as planned. Israeli strikes in Gaza killed over 80 people after the deal’s announcement. Security Minister Ben-Gvir threatened to quit the government if the deal is approved, calling it reckless. The cabinet is expected to meet Friday. Noah Prescott 17/01/2025 1:30 am
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been finalized in Qatar, ending a 15-month conflict. The war, triggered by Hamas’s October 2023 attack, resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths and significant infrastructure damage in Gaza. Israel claims its military actions targeted Hamas fighters, while Hamas retaliated with rocket fire. Health officials report 110,453 injuries, with 25% life-changing. The Gaza health system struggles to manage the crisis. The Israeli military claims to have killed 17,000 Hamas fighters, though this figure is unverified. Ava Sinclair 17/01/2025 1:30 am
France and the UK are considering deploying military personnel to Ukraine for a potential peacekeeping mission, contingent on a ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow. Discussions, led by French President Macron, involve scenarios like buffer zone monitoring and Kyiv defense. While UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is open to the idea, he hasn’t fully committed. The UK government emphasizes continued military aid to Ukraine, leaving peace talks to Kyiv. US reluctance to deploy troops makes its involvement unlikely. European leaders are debating the feasibility of Western troops ensuring peace, especially if Russia retains occupied territories. Noah Prescott 16/01/2025 10:00 pm
