Ukraine reported heavy losses for North Korean soldiers fighting with Russian troops in Kursk, with 30 casualties and three missing. North Korean units, involved in weekend assaults near Plekhovo, Vorozhba, and Martynovka, faced significant resistance. Drone footage showed bodies of purported North Korean soldiers, though identities were unverified. Ukrainian forces noted North Korean infantry using outdated tactics. Ukraine estimates 12,000 North Korean soldiers in Kursk, aiding Russian efforts to reclaim territory. Despite losses, North Korean troops, supported by Russian firepower, continued advancing.

Ava Sinclair 16/12/2024 4:30 pm

The Jewish Representative Council of Ireland is “deeply concerned” about deteriorating relations between Ireland and Israel, following Israel’s decision to close its Dublin embassy over Ireland’s “extreme anti-Israel policies.” Chairperson Maurice Cohen highlighted the distress this causes Israeli people in Ireland. Despite the closure, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris defended Ireland’s stance, emphasizing human rights and international law, while Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald urged the government to maintain pressure on Israel. Cohen warned that Ireland’s actions risk oversimplifying the conflict and unfairly isolating Israel.

Noah Prescott 16/12/2024 4:30 pm

Mr. Pedersen highlighted Syria’s challenges and urged increased humanitarian aid. The EU, Syria’s largest aid donor, sent a diplomat to engage with the new government. France, Turkey, and Qatar are also re-establishing diplomatic ties. The sudden rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a group previously designated as a terrorist organization, has shifted the geopolitical landscape, forcing countries to reassess their approach to Syria after years of normalizing relations with the ousted Assad regime.

Penelope Kingsley 16/12/2024 4:30 pm

North Korean units fighting for Russia in Kursk suffered at least 30 casualties, Ukraine’s military intelligence reported. This marks the first detailed account of North Korean losses. Fresh personnel from the DPRK’s 94th brigade are being deployed. Ukraine released images of casualties, but claims remain unverified. President Zelenskyy noted North Korean troops are aiding Russian forces, with over 10,000 amassed in Kursk. HUR reported a friendly fire incident where North Korean troops mistakenly fired on Chechen units, highlighting communication issues. Special protection protocols for North Korean troops have been established.

Ava Sinclair 16/12/2024 1:00 pm

Israel conducted 75 airstrikes on Syrian weapons depots and air defenses near Damascus, Hama, and Homs, aiming to prevent extremists from acquiring military assets. The strikes are part of over 450 attacks since the Assad regime’s collapse, targeting Syria’s military infrastructure. Israel has also occupied territory in Syria, including Mt. Hermon, with no set timeline for withdrawal. Rebel leader Ahmed al-Shara criticized Israel’s actions but emphasized Syria’s focus on reconstruction and stability over further conflict. No casualties were reported from the recent strikes.

Noah Prescott 16/12/2024 1:00 pm

Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced the closure of its embassy in Ireland, citing Ireland’s “extreme anti-Israel policies” and antisemitic rhetoric. Sa’ar criticized Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state and support for legal action against Israel. Opposition leader Yair Lapid condemned the closure, calling it a “victory for anti-Semitism.” Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris labeled Israel’s decision “deeply regrettable,” asserting Ireland’s stance as pro-peace and pro-human rights. Israel recalled its ambassador following Ireland’s recognition of Palestine.

Noah Prescott 16/12/2024 1:00 pm

Cyclone Chido, a category 4 storm, devastated Mayotte, a French archipelago, with winds over 220 km/h, causing catastrophic damage likened to an atomic bomb. The cyclone flattened neighborhoods, destroyed infrastructure, and left at least 11 confirmed dead, with fears of hundreds or thousands more victims. The storm, the strongest in over 90 years, also impacted northern Madagascar and Mozambique. Local officials describe the aftermath as apocalyptic, with entire neighborhoods disappearing and essential services crippled. The true death toll is expected to rise significantly.

Ava Sinclair 16/12/2024 9:30 am

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an Islamist rebel group with roots in ISIS and Al Qaeda, has moderated its stance since 2016. It has governed Idlib since 2017, achieving stability but facing criticism for authoritarian practices. As they attempt to form a national government, questions arise about scaling their governance model beyond Idlib. The U.S. has confirmed contact with the group despite its terrorist designation. Meanwhile, Israel has conducted strikes in Syria, and displaced Syrians are returning home.

Penelope Kingsley 16/12/2024 9:30 am

Following Assad’s unexpected fall, Syria is experiencing a surprisingly smooth transition. Rebels now in charge face a population filled with mixed emotions: excitement, grief, and hope. Despite the country’s broken state after decades of Assad rule, with widespread poverty and corruption, minimal violence and disciplined insurgents mark the change. Many Syrians are cautiously optimistic about navigating the uncertain future.

Penelope Kingsley 16/12/2024 6:00 am

Han Dong-hoon resigned as leader of South Korea’s People Power party after supporting President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment. Han, once Yoon’s ally, opposed Yoon’s martial law attempt, fearing potential bloodshed. The constitutional court is reviewing the impeachment, and investigators plan to question Yoon. Han’s resignation marks a final break with Yoon, following tensions over a luxury gift scandal and Yoon’s order to arrest politicians, including Han, during martial law. Han urged lawmakers to impeach Yoon, citing a threat to democracy.

Ava Sinclair 16/12/2024 6:00 am