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
Seven tourists, including four Australians and three foreign nationals, were hospitalized for suspected poisoning after drinking cocktails at the Warwick Fiji resort. They experienced nausea, vomiting, and neurological symptoms but are now stable. The incident follows a similar case in Laos involving methanol poisoning. Fiji’s Health Ministry is investigating the cause, with no confirmation yet on methanol involvement. Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister labeled the incident as “extremely isolated,” assuring travelers of safety. One of the affected tourists may be American, but the US embassy has not confirmed this. Penelope Kingsley 16/12/2024 6:00 am
Pope Francis visited Corsica, promoting a dynamic form of laicism that bridges religious and civic society. During his visit, he emphasized the importance of popular piety, such as processions and communal prayers, in fostering constructive citizenship. He warned against viewing these practices merely as folklore. The visit included a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and participation in a Mediterranean conference on popular piety. Corsica, known for its devout population, contrasts with secular France, featuring numerous lay associations dedicated to charity and piety. Ava Sinclair 16/12/2024 2:30 am
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, 79, was discharged from the hospital after successful surgery for a brain bleed. He expressed eagerness to work, stating he feels energetic and enthusiastic. Lula will rest at home in São Paulo until Thursday, with international travel restricted for now. He commented on the arrest of Gen. Walter Braga Netto, linked to an alleged coup plot involving former President Jair Bolsonaro. Lula emphasized the importance of respecting democracy and the constitution, condemning any military plots against government officials. Penelope Kingsley 16/12/2024 2:30 am
A devastating cyclone hit Mayotte, causing widespread destruction and potentially killing hundreds. The cyclone uprooted trees, destroyed homes, and severely damaged infrastructure, including hospitals and schools. Rescue efforts are hampered by damaged airports and power outages. The confirmed death toll is 11, but officials fear it could rise significantly. France is sending additional aid, including soldiers, firefighters, and medical supplies. The cyclone’s impact is exacerbated by Mayotte’s existing challenges, such as chronic water shortages and illegal immigration issues. Ava Sinclair 15/12/2024 11:00 pm
Israel’s government approved a plan to expand settlements in the Golan Heights, aiming to double its population. Prime Minister Netanyahu cited security concerns due to changes in Syria’s control. Despite international law deeming the area illegally occupied, Israel disputes this. Netanyahu emphasized no interest in conflict with Syria, but former PM Ehud Olmert criticized the expansion, questioning its necessity amid existing challenges. The Golan Heights hosts over 30 Israeli settlements and 20,000 settlers, alongside 20,000 Druze Arabs. Penelope Kingsley 15/12/2024 11:00 pm
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment and legal scrutiny after declaring martial law, which lasted only six hours. He failed to appear for a prosecutor’s summons regarding charges of insurrection and abuse of authority. The constitutional court will decide on his removal, with a potential national election if he’s dismissed. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, a frontrunner to replace Yoon, seeks to stabilize the political situation. The court has up to 180 days to rule, but past cases suggest a quicker decision is possible. Penelope Kingsley 15/12/2024 7:30 pm
Israel announced the closure of its embassy in Ireland due to deteriorating relations over the Gaza conflict. This decision follows Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state and its involvement in a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized Ireland’s stance, while Irish leaders expressed regret over the embassy closure, emphasizing Ireland’s commitment to peace and human rights. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed over 30 people, including children, as the Palestinian death toll neared 45,000. Ava Sinclair 15/12/2024 7:30 pm
At least 14 people died in Mayotte due to Cyclone Chido, with nine critically injured and 246 others hurt. The cyclone, the worst since 1934, caused significant damage to homes, schools, and health facilities. Cleanup is underway in the French territory, where access to food, water, and sanitation is a concern. The storm intensified as it moved towards Mozambique, where UNICEF is providing aid. French officials expressed concern over the situation, with many residents losing everything. The cyclone packed winds up to 200 km/h. Penelope Kingsley 15/12/2024 7:30 pm
Five members of the Australian “Bali Nine” drug ring returned to Australia after 19 years in Indonesian jail, following diplomatic negotiations. Arrested in 2005 for smuggling heroin, two ringleaders were executed in 2015, straining relations. The repatriation deal, facilitated by meetings between Indonesian and Australian officials, includes a ban on the men returning to Indonesia. Australian PM Anthony Albanese thanked Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for his compassion and emphasized ongoing cooperation against drug trafficking. The Australian government did not disclose further details of the agreement. Penelope Kingsley 15/12/2024 7:30 pm
