Pakistani police used tear gas to stop supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from entering Islamabad for a sit-in demanding his release. Despite a lockdown and previous arrests, demonstrators traveled 150 kilometers to gather near the capital. Clashes resulted in one police officer’s death and several injuries. The government is negotiating with Khan’s party to prevent further violence, allowing protests on Islamabad’s outskirts but threatening severe measures if they enter the city. Khan, jailed for over a year, faces numerous charges his party claims are politically motivated. Ava Sinclair 26/11/2024 6:30 am
Jad Deeb, a 31-year-old IT specialist turned paramedic, volunteers with the Lebanese Popular Relief Association, responding to Israeli airstrikes in southern Beirut. Despite the dangers, including unexploded ordnance and threats from the Israeli military, Deeb and his team work tirelessly to rescue people from the rubble. They face the constant risk of being targeted, with the Israeli military allegedly warning them to leave sites or face further bombing. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated in October 2023. Ava Sinclair 26/11/2024 6:30 am
U.S. President Biden and French President Macron are expected to announce a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, according to Lebanese sources. Significant progress has been made, with Israel’s cabinet set to approve a truce deal. Despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes, diplomatic efforts continue. Israel’s UN ambassador stated Israel would retain the right to strike southern Lebanon, a point of contention. U.S. and French officials note that while gaps have narrowed, finalizing the agreement remains challenging. Noah Prescott 26/11/2024 3:00 am
A diving boat, The Sea Story, sank off Egypt’s Red Sea coast near Marsa Alam, leaving 16 of the 44 people on board missing. The remaining 28 were rescued. The boat carried 31 tourists of various nationalities and at least a dozen crew members. Two Americans were on board, but the U.S. Embassy in Cairo reported no U.S. citizen fatalities. Authorities are in contact with local officials to provide assistance. Noah Prescott 26/11/2024 3:00 am
Sunita Bose, managing director of Digital Industry Group Inc., urged an Australian Senate committee to delay legislation banning children under 16 from social media until next year. The proposed law, which could pass by Thursday, would fine platforms up to AU$50 million for failing to prevent young children from creating accounts. Bose argued for waiting until a government evaluation of age assurance technologies is completed in June. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland supports the law, emphasizing social media’s risks for children. Bose faced tough questions from senators about current age limit enforcement. Noah Prescott 26/11/2024 3:00 am
Russia captured British national James Scott Rhys Anderson, who fought with Ukrainian troops in Kursk. Anderson, a former British army signalman, joined Ukraine’s International Legion. Russia’s military gains in eastern Donetsk have accelerated, exploiting Ukrainian defense weaknesses. The war surpassed 1,000 days, marked by increased hostilities. Russia adapted drone tactics, launching daytime attacks, while Ukraine intercepted most drones. Missile strikes in Kharkiv and Odesa injured dozens. Ukraine continues targeting Russian logistical sites. Penelope Kingsley 25/11/2024 11:30 pm
French prosecutors seek a 20-year sentence for Dominique Pelicot, accused of drugging his ex-wife Gisèle and facilitating her rape by 50 men. Pelicot admitted guilt and faces additional medical treatment. Prosecutor Laure Chabaud highlighted his “multiple sexual deviances” and the need for re-examination post-sentence. The trial has sparked national debate on rape culture and consent. Gisèle’s decision to waive anonymity has drawn significant attention. Co-defendant Jean-Pierre Marechal also faces charges for similar crimes against his ex-wife. Verdicts are expected next month. Ava Sinclair 25/11/2024 11:30 pm
The UAE announced the arrest of three Uzbek nationals for the kidnapping and murder of Rabbi Zvi Kogan, raising concerns about the safety of the Jewish community. The suspects, named as Olimboy Tohirovich, Makhmudjon Abdurakhim, and Azizbek Kamilovich, were shown blindfolded and handcuffed. Authorities are investigating the crime’s motives. Israeli PM Netanyahu condemned the murder as an antisemitic terrorist attack. Rabbi Kogan, part of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, was last seen in Dubai, and his body was found in Al Ain. His funeral is planned in Jerusalem. Penelope Kingsley 25/11/2024 11:30 pm
Israeli Ambassador Mike Herzog indicated a cease-fire deal with Hezbollah could be reached soon, though some issues remain, including Israel’s demand to act if Hezbollah violates the agreement. The deal aims to remove troops from southern Lebanon. Israel accuses Hezbollah of not adhering to a 2006 U.N. resolution, while Lebanon claims Israeli violations. U.S. mediation has fueled optimism for a resolution. Noah Prescott 25/11/2024 11:30 pm
A tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea, leaving 16 people missing, after warnings of rough waters. Rescuers saved 28 of the 44 onboard, including 13 Egyptians and 31 foreigners. Survivors suffered minor injuries and were taken to a hotel. The yacht, Sea Story, had no technical issues and was last safety-checked in March. Preliminary reports suggest a large wave caused the capsizing. The UK and Ireland are providing consular support to affected nationals. Rescuers continue searching for the missing. Penelope Kingsley 25/11/2024 8:00 pm
