The UN’s top court is hearing a landmark case brought by small island nations seeking accountability from major polluters for climate change impacts threatening their survival. The International Court of Justice is asked to clarify states’ obligations regarding climate change. Vanuatu’s attorney-general emphasized the crisis’s magnitude, while climate campaigner Siosiua Veikune highlighted the case’s potential to reveal countries’ stances on climate action. Although the court’s decision would be advisory and non-binding, it could influence future legal actions and domestic lawsuits.

Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

The International Criminal Court’s annual meeting faces challenges, including backlash over arrest warrants for Israeli officials and sexual harassment allegations against the chief prosecutor. The court issued warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and others, accusing them of crimes against humanity in Gaza, marking a first for a Western ally leader. The decision has drawn mixed reactions, with U.S. President Biden calling it “outrageous” while previously supporting a warrant for Putin. France and Hungary expressed differing stances, highlighting the court’s controversial position.

Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

Russian and Syrian jets targeted rebel-held areas in northwestern Syria, signaling Russia’s continued support for President Bashar al-Assad amid a rebel advance. Russia and Iran reaffirmed their backing for Assad through diplomatic channels. Meanwhile, opposition leader Hadi al-Bahra, speaking from Turkey, urged Assad to commit to a political transition as rebels made significant territorial gains, including capturing parts of Aleppo. Al-Bahra leads the National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces, advocating for democratic change despite its waning influence.

Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

A group of 85 countries emphasized the need for binding global targets to cut plastic production in ongoing negotiations for a plastic waste treaty. Talks in Busan, South Korea, ended without agreement due to resistance from countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Russia, who opposed production cuts. Despite support from over 100 countries for legally binding reductions, divisions persisted. The US was criticized for not advocating stronger measures. High-ambition countries, including the UK and EU, continue to push for binding provisions to ensure the treaty’s effectiveness.

Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

Former Israeli defense minister Moshe Yaalon accused Israel of war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Gaza, a rare critique from a security establishment member. His comments, made on Saturday and reiterated on Sunday, drew swift condemnation from allies of Prime Minister Netanyahu, who argued they harm Israel and aid its enemies. Yaalon, who served as military chief during the second intifada and as defense minister in 2014, broke with Netanyahu in 2016 and has since criticized him. Yaalon denounced the government’s actions in Gaza, warning of occupation and settlement expansion.

Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

Hundreds of Iran-backed Iraqi militia fighters crossed into Syria to support the government against rebels in Aleppo, sources said. At least 300 fighters from Badr and Nujabaa groups entered via a dirt road to avoid detection. Iran pledged support, with Foreign Minister Araqchi affirming aid to Syria. Syrian and Russian warplanes intensified attacks on rebel-held areas. The rebel assault last week was a significant setback for Assad, reigniting conflict. The situation risks further destabilizing the region, already affected by conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.

Penelope Kingsley 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

A crowd crush at a soccer match in Nzerekore, Guinea, resulted in at least 56 deaths and numerous injuries. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause. Social media showed fans fleeing the packed stadium. Clashes reportedly began over refereeing decisions, leading to chaos and a stampede. Prime Minister Bah Oury called for calm and emphasized the need for hospital access. Former leader Alpha Conde criticized the event’s timing amid national tensions.

Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 4:30 pm

A stampede at a soccer stadium in Nzerekore, Guinea, killed 56 people, including children, following fan clashes during a local tournament final. The chaos erupted after a disputed penalty, leading security forces to use tear gas. Authorities are investigating the incident, which occurred during a match honoring military leader Mamadi Doumbouya. Videos showed fans protesting and fleeing the stadium. The National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy criticized the tournament as politically motivated.

Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 1:00 pm

Protests erupted in Georgia after the government delayed its EU membership bid, sparking anger over perceived pro-Russia policies by the ruling Georgian Dream party. Tensions rose following a contested election seen as a referendum on EU integration. The government announced a four-year suspension of EU talks after the European Parliament rejected the election results. This decision led to widespread protests met with a violent police crackdown, as demonstrators demand closer ties with Europe over Russia. Most Georgians support EU membership, a goal enshrined in the constitution.

Noah Prescott 02/12/2024 1:00 pm

Joe Biden is visiting Angola to promote a U.S.-backed railway project connecting the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia to Angola’s Lobito port, aiming to redirect critical minerals like copper and cobalt away from China. This project is partly funded by a U.S. loan. China, a dominant player in Congo, recently signed a deal to revive a competing railway. Biden’s visit includes a stop in Cape Verde and Angola’s National Museum of Slavery. Officials suggest Donald Trump will support the railway project if he returns to the White House, focusing on competition with China and access to critical minerals.

Ava Sinclair 02/12/2024 1:00 pm