An Israeli strike on a tent camp in southern Gaza killed at least 21 people, targeting senior Hamas militants. The attack occurred in the Muwasi area, a camp for displaced people. Earlier strikes in Gaza killed eight, including children. The conflict began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. Israel’s retaliation has killed over 44,500 Palestinians. Separately, Israel struck a launcher in southern Lebanon, citing ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. Ava Sinclair 04/12/2024 9:00 pm
French PM Michel Barnier is set to lose a no-confidence vote due to opposition from the left-wing New Popular Front and far-right National Rally, making his government’s collapse imminent. Barnier, appointed by President Macron 90 days ago, used special powers to pass the 2025 budget without parliamentary support, angering opposition parties. This move followed inconclusive snap elections, leaving Barnier with insufficient support. If the vote passes, Barnier’s government will fall, and Macron will need to appoint a new prime minister. Noah Prescott 04/12/2024 5:30 pm
Romania, a key NATO member with significant military assets, faces uncertainty as pro-Russia candidate Călin Georgescu vies for the presidency. Despite his NATO-skeptic stance, Georgescu claims he doesn’t want to exit NATO or the EU but seeks a more independent foreign policy. His views challenge Romania’s strong NATO ties, including hosting a U.S. missile defense system and supporting Ukraine. However, his potential impact is limited by parliamentary dynamics and strong public support for NATO. As president, he would influence foreign policy and military leadership. Penelope Kingsley 04/12/2024 5:30 pm
Iranian prosecutors have allowed jailed activist and Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi a 21-day prison leave to recover from leg surgery. Her foundation argues this period is insufficient, urging for at least three months due to overcrowded, unsanitary prison conditions. Mohammadi, imprisoned for “spreading anti-state propaganda,” has faced health issues, including heart attacks and delayed medical treatment. Her husband, Taghi Rahmani, highlights further health concerns, emphasizing the need for specialized care. Mohammadi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023. Ava Sinclair 04/12/2024 5:30 pm
During a summit in Angola with African leaders, President Joe Biden, 82, appeared to fall asleep while Vice-President Philip Mpango of Tanzania spoke. Despite wearing a translation earpiece, all participants spoke English. This incident occurred on the last day of Biden’s first African visit since 2021. Biden has faced criticism for appearing tired at international events, attributed to his age and demanding travel schedule. Previously, he acknowledged struggling with international travel demands, impacting his performance in debates and summits, leading to the “Sleepy Joe” nickname. Ava Sinclair 04/12/2024 5:30 pm
In 2016, Iran-commanded militias and Russian bombings helped Assad reclaim Aleppo. However, the city fell again in 72 hours, reigniting Syria’s civil war. Iran blamed Israel, but the real issue was the weakened state of Assad’s forces, similar to the Afghan army’s collapse. Additionally, Turkish President ErdoÄŸan’s geopolitical moves against U.S.-backed Kurds and tensions with Assad contributed to the situation. The Syrian Arab Army was demoralized and weaker than it appeared, leading to Aleppo’s rapid fall. Noah Prescott 04/12/2024 5:30 pm
South Korea faces a political crisis after President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, citing an “insurgency” by the opposition. This unexpected move led to mass protests and a unanimous parliamentary vote against the decree. Despite Yoon’s promise to reverse the declaration, tensions remain high, with opposition parties seeking his impeachment. The situation highlights ongoing political gridlock and uncertainty in the country. Penelope Kingsley 04/12/2024 5:30 pm
Chinese coast guard and navy ships used water cannons and blocked a Philippine patrol vessel at Scarborough Shoal, escalating tensions in the South China Sea. The Philippines condemned the “aggressive actions” during a routine patrol to protect fishermen. The U.S. criticized China’s maneuvers as unlawful and dangerous. Despite the incident, Philippine agencies vowed to protect their maritime rights. China claims sovereignty over the area, conflicting with several Southeast Asian nations. The U.S. and allies support a free and open Indo-Pacific, opposing China’s expansive territorial claims. Ava Sinclair 04/12/2024 2:00 pm
South Korea faced turmoil after President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law, accusing the opposition of “anti-state” activities. The move, announced late Tuesday, banned political activities and sparked outrage. Lawmakers and protesters demanded Yoon’s removal, fearing a return to authoritarianism. By dawn, Yoon lifted martial law amid widespread condemnation. Experts believe this has severely damaged his political standing, with opposition parties considering impeachment. The situation raises questions about the future of Yoon’s presidency and South Korea’s political stability. Penelope Kingsley 04/12/2024 2:00 pm
Georgians are protesting after the government paused its EU accession process until 2028, amid a global power struggle over the country’s alignment. The ruling party, Georgian Dream, is moving towards authoritarianism and closer ties with Russia, cracking down on liberal democracy, LGBTQ rights, and press freedom. This shift has sparked concerns about Georgia’s democratic future, with EU and NATO accession remaining popular among citizens. The protests highlight the tension between aligning with the West or following a path similar to Russia-aligned Belarus. Penelope Kingsley 04/12/2024 2:00 pm
