In Seoul, around 100,000 protesters gathered outside the National Assembly, demanding the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Despite a festive atmosphere with music and light sticks, the protest was serious, following Yoon’s failed martial law attempt. His televised apology did little to calm public anger. As lawmakers prepared for an impeachment vote, rallies across Seoul mostly called for Yoon’s resignation. The protest resembled an outdoor festival, with rock bands and vendors, as demonstrators filled the streets. Penelope Kingsley 07/12/2024 10:30 pm
An explosion and fire in The Hague destroyed several apartments, killing at least three and injuring multiple people. The cause is unclear, but a car was seen speeding away. Authorities are searching for up to 20 missing individuals, with four rescued and hospitalized. Mayor Jan van Zanen confirmed three bodies were found, and efforts have shifted to recovery. At least five apartments were destroyed, and residents are advised to close windows due to smoke. A child is among the hospitalized, and ambulances are on standby. Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 7:00 pm
The Syrian regime urged citizens to ignore “false news” destabilizing the nation, as government forces claimed successes against rebels in Hama, Homs, and Daraa. Opposition groups posted videos of their control in southern and northern Syria, launching a surprise offensive against President Assad’s regime. Assad’s whereabouts are uncertain, with speculation he may have left Damascus. The UN envoy called for an “inclusive and credible” power transition, emphasizing de-escalation and civilian protection amid ongoing conflict. Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 7:00 pm
Biden administration officials are surprised by the rapid advance of Syrian rebels, suggesting Bashar al-Assad’s regime could fall within days. Despite the swift progress, a formal assessment on Assad’s fate hasn’t been made, and opinions vary. The rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, are advancing toward Damascus after capturing major cities. The US has previously misjudged regime resilience, prompting a review of its military assessments. National security adviser Jake Sullivan expressed concerns about the rebel group’s intentions. Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 7:00 pm
President-elect Donald Trump stated that the U.S. should avoid military involvement in Syria, emphasizing “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT.” He criticized Syrian President Bashar Assad, supported by Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, amid a 13-year conflict. The war began in 2011 as a peaceful uprising and has killed half a million people. The insurgents, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have advanced toward Damascus with little resistance. The Biden administration noted these advances but confirmed no U.S. military intervention is planned. Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 7:00 pm
Opposition lawmakers in South Korea failed to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after he declared martial law, sparking a political crisis. The impeachment attempt was blocked by Yoon’s People Power Party, which opposed the bill. A two-thirds majority was needed in the 300-member assembly, requiring defections from Yoon’s party. However, only three of Yoon’s 108 party members participated, invalidating the vote. Despite prolonged efforts by the opposition to gain support, the session was called off without success. Penelope Kingsley 07/12/2024 3:30 pm
The EU has signed a trade deal with Mercosur, comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed it as a “historic milestone.” If ratified, the deal will lower tariffs, simplify customs, and enhance EU access to raw materials, boosting trade in cars, machinery, and more. Last year, Europe exported $59bn to these countries, while importing $57bn, including crucial minerals for EV batteries. Covering 700 million consumers, the deal aims to expand economic output, benefiting 60,000 EU companies, half of which are small businesses. Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 3:30 pm
Donald Trump, as president-elect, is visiting Paris for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral after its 2019 fire. Invited by French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump praised the restoration efforts. Security is heightened with French and U.S. agents ensuring safety. Macron, aiming to build relations with Trump, downplayed the invitation’s significance, noting other non-office-holding politicians were also invited. President Joe Biden was invited but won’t attend due to a scheduling conflict; First Lady Jill Biden will represent the U.S. instead. Ava Sinclair 07/12/2024 3:30 pm
Protesters in Jaramana, a Damascus suburb, toppled a statue of Hafez al-Assad, father of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, demanding the regime’s downfall. The mainly Druze protesters also approached government buildings, urging security forces to leave. Unlike other areas, Druze protests are generally tolerated. Meanwhile, Syrian rebels have advanced into Damascus suburbs, with opposition forces encircling the capital. Despite unrest, Bashar al-Assad remains in Damascus, continuing his duties, according to state media. Ava Sinclair 07/12/2024 3:30 pm
The Notre Dame Cathedral’s reopening ceremony will feature President-elect Donald Trump, invited by French President Emmanuel Macron. Trump’s visit comes amid Western Europe’s political tensions and his controversial stance on Ukraine. Macron aims to stabilize his government and influence Western support for Ukraine. Trump’s fascination with Notre Dame dates back to its 2019 fire, which he commented on during his first term. Macron’s success in bringing Trump to Paris is seen as a diplomatic achievement, with meetings planned between Trump, Macron, and Ukrainian President Zelensky. Ava Sinclair 07/12/2024 12:00 pm
