On the eve of Pope Francis’ funeral Mass, his coffin was solemnly sealed after lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica. Around 250,000 mourners visited over three days. The ceremony, led by Cardinal-Camerlengo Kevin Farrell, included reading a document highlighting Francis’ life and achievements. Archbishop Diego Ravelli covered the Pope’s face with a white silk cloth, and a bag of coins and medals was placed in the coffin. The zinc coffin was sealed with various seals, and the wooden coffin was also sealed, bearing a cross and Francis’ coat of arms. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
Sudanese people are resorting to eating leaves and charcoal after fleeing an attack on a displaced persons camp near el-Fasher, according to the Norwegian Refugee Council. Many are dying from thirst and exhaustion during the 40km journey to Tawila. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces attacked Zamzam camp, displacing tens of thousands. The ongoing conflict between the RSF and the army has created a severe humanitarian crisis, with reduced UN food aid due to funding issues. UK Foreign Minister David Lammy condemned the situation as potential ethnic cleansing. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
The US and Iran are entering a challenging phase of nuclear talks, focusing on technical details. The US, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, opposes Iran enriching its own uranium, preferring it imports nuclear fuel. Iran insists on its right to enrich uranium. Previous talks were positive despite Trump’s military threats. The 2015 JCPOA deal, abandoned by Trump in 2018, limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions. Trump seeks a stronger deal, but US demands remain unclear, especially regarding Iran’s civilian nuclear program. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, later Pope Francis, frequently visited Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, even sneaking out to pray there after becoming pope in 2013. Despite a close encounter with a pickpocket, he cherished the basilica, visiting over 100 times during his papacy. After his death at 88, Francis chose a simple burial there, eschewing the traditional pomp of St. Peter’s Basilica, reflecting his desire for a modest, pastor-like farewell. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
A 2018 European Commission study highlights future conflicts over water access, identifying vulnerable hotspots like the Nile, Ganges-Brahmaputra, Indus, Tigris-Euphrates, and Colorado rivers. Climate change and population growth exacerbate competition for water, leading to potential “hydro-political issues.” Experts predict 21st-century conflicts will focus on water, unlike the oil-driven wars of the 20th century. Water’s critical role in survival and socio-economic growth heightens concerns, with treaties like the Indus Waters Treaty becoming crucial, especially for countries like Pakistan. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
In his second presidency’s first 100 days, President Trump has pushed his agenda aggressively, sometimes at odds with foundational U.S. principles. In a Time interview, Trump expressed skepticism about the U.S. being a nation ruled solely by laws, suggesting that individuals play a significant role. He hinted at exploring legal loopholes for a potential third term, despite claiming no knowledge of such possibilities. His administration’s approach has been marked by attempts to reshape governance, raising concerns about adherence to traditional legal frameworks. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
President Donald Trump is traveling to Rome for Pope Francis’s funeral, offering a chance for diplomacy with leaders like Ukraine’s Zelensky, UK’s Starmer, and France’s Macron, though Russia’s Putin will be absent. Meanwhile, Trump’s approval on immigration has declined, per a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll. Domestically, Trump announced new tariffs on Chinese imports and is in a legal battle with Harvard over its tax-exempt status. His administration is also downsizing federal agencies, affecting jobs across various departments. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
The World Food Program’s food stocks in Gaza have depleted due to Israel’s blockade, affecting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. The WFP delivered its last supplies to charity kitchens, which are expected to run out soon. Around 80% of Gaza’s population relies on these kitchens, which provide 644,000 meals daily. Israel’s blockade, aimed at pressuring Hamas, has been criticized as a “starvation tactic.” The Israeli military agency COGAT declined to comment on remaining supplies, while Israel accuses Hamas of diverting aid, a claim humanitarian workers dispute. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly militant attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistan. Despite Pakistan’s denial, the incident has led to an exchange of fire across the Kashmir border. The UN has urged both nations to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration. Friday’s gunfire ended without casualties, but Indian analysts predict potential military responses. The attack, targeting mostly Hindu tourists, was claimed by a group India alleges is backed by Pakistan. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Gen Yaroslav Moskalik was killed in a car bomb attack in Moscow, confirmed by Russia’s Investigative Committee. The explosion occurred near his home in Balashikha. Russian officials labeled it a “terrorist attack,” but no group has claimed responsibility. Moskalik was involved in the 2015 Minsk agreements with Ukraine. Ukraine typically does not claim responsibility for such attacks, though unnamed sources have hinted at involvement. The incident coincides with US-Russia talks on the Ukraine conflict, with Moscow expressing readiness for a deal. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
