In Muscat, Iranian and U.S. negotiators began indirect talks to curb Iran’s nuclear program, with U.S. President Trump expressing optimism about reaching a deal. The discussions, mediated by Oman, follow constructive talks in Rome. Iran seeks sanctions relief amid economic struggles and military setbacks. Talks are starting at the expert level to draft a potential framework before lead negotiators meet. Trump remains open to military action if diplomacy fails, though both nations are committed to pursuing diplomatic solutions. Noah Prescott 26/04/2025 1:30 pm
Mourners gather in Vatican City and Rome to bid farewell to Pope Francis, remembered for championing migrants and the poor. His funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica is attended by over 50 world leaders, including US President Trump and Argentine President Milei. The Vatican expects 250,000 attendees, with a million more lining the procession route. Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died at 88 after a stroke. His body lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing 250,000 mourners. His coffin was sealed in a rite led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Noah Prescott 26/04/2025 10:00 am
Pope Francis’ funeral presents a unique opportunity for informal diplomacy as world leaders gather to pay respects. While formal meetings are not planned to maintain the solemnity of the occasion, “brush-by” conversations may occur. Notably, attention is on whether Presidents Trump and Zelensky will discuss a Ukraine ceasefire. Seating arrangements, based on French alphabetical order, might separate them, potentially avoiding tensions. Ava Sinclair 26/04/2025 10:00 am
In 1995, Ismail Serageldin predicted future wars over water, a scenario now unfolding in Kashmir. In April 2025, India downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan after a militant attack, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan warned that disrupting its water supply would be seen as an “act of war.” The conflict, rooted in historical tensions since the 1947 partition, is exacerbated by climate change. The Indus River, vital for both nations, has been a longstanding source of disputes, with the current situation threatening regional stability. Penelope Kingsley 26/04/2025 10:00 am
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir. Pakistani soldiers fired at Indian posts along the Line of Control for two consecutive nights, prompting Indian troops to respond. No casualties were reported. India accused Pakistan of backing the attack, which was claimed by a new militant group, while Pakistan denied involvement. In response, India suspended a water-sharing treaty and revoked visas for Pakistani nationals. The situation remains tense, with both countries having a history of conflict over the disputed region. Noah Prescott 26/04/2025 10:00 am
Virginia Giuffre, a prominent survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, died by suicide at 41 in Neergabby, Australia. Known for her advocacy, Giuffre was instrumental in calling for charges against Epstein and his enablers, providing key information that aided investigations, including Ghislaine Maxwell’s conviction. Her family described her as a “fierce warrior” against sexual abuse, but noted the toll of her experiences became unbearable. Raised in Florida, Giuffre faced early abuse and homelessness before encountering Epstein’s associate, Maxwell. Ava Sinclair 26/04/2025 3:00 am
An extraordinary array of invitees, including global leaders, refugees, and marginalized groups, will attend Pope Francis’s funeral at St Peter’s Square. Francis, who died at 88, was a liberal pontiff who led the Catholic Church for 12 years. The funeral, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, involves complex security with 130 foreign delegations and 200,000 pilgrims. Notable attendees include Donald Trump, Joe Biden, and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The service reflects Francis’s values, inviting NGOs aiding refugees and migrants. Noah Prescott 26/04/2025 3:00 am
In a TIME interview, Trump discussed various topics, including tariffs, Ukraine-Russia peace efforts, and the Iran nuclear deal. He expressed interest in Canada becoming a U.S. state and supported a ban on Congress members trading stocks. Trump denied expanding presidential powers, claiming he uses the office as intended. He reiterated unproven claims of election cheating and praised tariffs. Trump mentioned making “200 deals” on trade, though none were announced, and considered 50% tariffs a “total victory.” He claimed ongoing talks with China, despite Chinese denials, and said President Xi Jinping had called him. Noah Prescott 26/04/2025 3:00 am
Russia accused Ukraine of orchestrating a car bombing that killed General Yaroslav Moskalik in Moscow, marking another assassination linked to the military offensive. Kyiv hasn’t commented, but Russia’s foreign ministry suspects Ukrainian involvement, calling it “barbaric” and accusing Kyiv of escalating attacks. The blast coincided with US envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Moscow. Russia opened a murder probe, while Kyiv criticized Russia’s commitment to peace amid ongoing missile attacks. The incident resembles past attacks on figures associated with Russia’s offensive. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has exhausted its food stocks in Gaza due to a seven-week Israeli blockade, which began on March 2. The blockade followed the collapse of a ceasefire, with Israel aiming to pressure Hamas. The WFP warns that food kitchens will soon run out, exacerbating already fragile markets and skyrocketing food prices by up to 1,400%. Vulnerable populations face severe nutrition concerns. The WFP urges immediate aid access, highlighting that over 116,000 tonnes of food are ready for delivery once borders reopen. Israel claims compliance with international law, denying an aid shortage. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 11:30 pm
