Syrian President Bashar Assad faces renewed challenges as insurgents capture key cities, including Aleppo and Hama. Unlike a decade ago, when Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah aided him, Assad now finds himself largely unsupported. Russia is focused on Ukraine, Hezbollah is weakened by conflict with Israel, and Iran’s proxies are degraded. Syrian forces are exhausted after 13 years of war. Despite recent diplomatic gains, Assad’s regime is at risk, with analysts suggesting the coming weeks will determine if the rebel offensive poses an existential threat or if Assad can regain control.

Penelope Kingsley 07/12/2024 12:00 pm

Rafael Grossi, head of the IAEA, expressed concern over Iran’s increased production of 60% enriched uranium, nearing weapon-grade levels. This move is seen as a response to regional setbacks. Despite some Iranian politicians advocating for nuclear weapons, current leadership seems not to pursue this path. Grossi warned against Israeli attacks on Iranian facilities, citing severe consequences. He noted the normalization of nuclear weapon discussions and confirmed Iran’s increased uranium production at Fordow, urging urgent safeguards to prevent misuse. Iran denies having a military nuclear program.

Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 12:00 pm

Tens of thousands protested outside South Korea’s National Assembly, demanding President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment after his brief martial law declaration. The protest, organized by a major labor union, aimed to prevent lawmakers from leaving. Inside, the impeachment vote was delayed as opposition tried to persuade ruling party members to support the ouster. The rally, the largest yet, had a festive atmosphere with families attending. Protesters like Lee Soo-jin vowed to continue until Yoon is impeached.

Ava Sinclair 07/12/2024 12:00 pm

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol apologized for attempting to impose martial law but refused to resign despite pressure, including from his own party. He rescinded the order shortly after declaring it, leading to a political crisis. Yoon promised no further attempts at martial law and left his political future to his party. People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon stated Yoon should resign, though the party formally opposed impeachment. If Yoon resigns or is impeached, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would become acting president, with a new election required within 60 days.

Ava Sinclair 07/12/2024 8:30 am

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen finalized a major trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc, creating a free-trade zone for over 700 million people. The deal, completed after 25 years, is opposed by France due to concerns over cheap imports affecting its farmers, while Germany supports it for opening new markets. The agreement is seen as a geopolitical win for von der Leyen, enhancing EU-Mercosur ties amid global trade tensions. France, alongside Poland, Austria, and Ireland, may continue opposing the deal’s ratification.

Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 8:30 am

Romania’s Constitutional Court canceled the final round of the presidential election, citing the need to ensure electoral correctness. This decision followed allegations of cyberattacks aimed at undermining the vote. The election’s front-runner, ultranationalist Calin Georgescu, had shocked the political establishment. Far-right leader George Simion criticized the ruling but urged peaceful responses. The court provided no timeline for a new election. The decision sparked anger among right-wing groups but was welcomed by Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, a losing candidate in the initial round.

Ava Sinclair 07/12/2024 1:30 am

Lebanon closed most land borders with Syria after an Israeli airstrike damaged a crossing. Jordan also shut its border with Syria due to security concerns. Israel is reinforcing positions near Syria, monitoring developments. Syrian insurgents advanced in central Syria, capturing key towns. Meanwhile, negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire between Hamas and Israel resumed. The ongoing conflict has devastated Gaza, with significant casualties on both sides. An Israeli strike in Gaza’s Nuseirat camp killed at least 12, including children and women.

Noah Prescott 07/12/2024 1:30 am

Israeli forces stormed Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, killing four doctors and injuring dozens. Troops forced evacuations, destroyed medical supplies, and detained many, including health workers. Intense fire and airstrikes preceded the raid, with patients and staff corralled and moved to a checkpoint. An Indonesian medical team was also expelled. This was the second such raid since October 5, amid severe humanitarian conditions. Over 3,700 Palestinians have died, and 10,000 injured. Post-raid, hundreds of bodies and injured were found outside the hospital.

Penelope Kingsley 06/12/2024 6:30 pm

Hongchi Xiao, an alternative healer promoting “slapping therapy,” was sentenced to 10 years for manslaughter by gross negligence after 71-year-old diabetic Danielle Carr-Gomm died during his workshop. She stopped taking insulin, believing in Xiao’s unscientific method to release “poisonous waste.” Xiao, previously convicted in Australia for a similar case, showed no remorse and continued promoting his therapy. Despite Carr-Gomm’s severe symptoms, Xiao failed to seek medical help, leading to her death.

Noah Prescott 06/12/2024 6:30 pm

U.S.-backed Syrian rebels have seized Deir ez-Zor, forcing Iran-backed government forces to withdraw. Led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), rebels are advancing on Homs after capturing Hama. Russia bombed Rustan Bridge to slow their advance. Turkey, supporting the Free Syrian Army alongside HTS, plays a crucial role, with its tacit approval deemed essential for the attack.

Penelope Kingsley 06/12/2024 6:30 pm