An Israeli strike on Beirut’s Basta Fawqa neighborhood killed at least 29 people, including children, marking the deadliest attack in a year. Lebanese seamstress Laila Amayrad mourned nine friends and clients among the victims. The area, considered safe, was hit without an evacuation warning. Israel claims to target Hezbollah and usually issues warnings, but none were given for this strike. Amayrad noted that even Hezbollah strongholds receive warnings, highlighting the tragedy of innocent lives lost. Ava Sinclair 25/11/2024 8:00 pm
A British man, James Scott Rhys Anderson, 22, was captured by Russian forces while fighting for Ukraine. In a video, Anderson, a former British Army private, identifies himself and explains he joined Ukraine’s International Legion after losing his job. Russian state news agency Tass reported his capture in the Kursk area. Anderson’s father expressed fear for his son’s safety, hoping he might be used as a bargaining chip. The UK foreign secretary pledged support for Anderson, while David Lammy confirmed being updated on the situation. Noah Prescott 25/11/2024 8:00 pm
Lithuanian authorities are investigating potential Russian involvement after a DHL cargo jet crashed into a house, killing one crew member. The crash occurred near Vilnius Airport, with the plane originating from Leipzig, Germany, a site of previous suspected Kremlin attacks. These incidents include fires in packages bound for DHL planes. The crash follows similar suspicious blazes targeting courier companies in Poland, Germany, and the UK. Lithuanian Police Commissioner General Arunas Paulauskas stated that terrorism is a possible cause being investigated. Noah Prescott 25/11/2024 8:00 pm
Dominique Pelicot, accused of organizing the rape of his unconscious wife by over 50 men, faces a 20-year sentence, deemed insufficient by prosecutor Laure Chabaud. She emphasized Pelicot’s full responsibility, noting his lack of mental illness and potential danger. The case, drawing significant media attention, highlights issues of consent in France. Pelicot admitted to drugging his wife and facilitating the assaults over nearly a decade. The trial, held in Avignon, saw all defendants present, sparking widespread debate on consent attitudes. Ava Sinclair 25/11/2024 4:30 pm
A DHL cargo plane crashed near Vilnius Airport, Lithuania, killing a Spanish crew member and injuring three others. The cause is unknown, but terrorism isn’t ruled out. DHL confirmed the crash and is investigating, with no suspicious parcels reported. German and Lithuanian officials are probing potential sabotage or hybrid incidents. Boeing is gathering information to assist. Lithuanian police and intelligence emphasize thorough investigation, while Germany’s Foreign Minister suggests considering sabotage. Noah Prescott 25/11/2024 4:30 pm
In Romania’s presidential election, hard-right critic of NATO, Calin Georgescu, unexpectedly advanced to a runoff with 22.95% of votes, facing center-right Elena Lasconi, who secured 19.2%. This outcome surprised many, as Social Democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu was the expected frontrunner. The election focused on Romania’s high cost of living, with Georgescu’s campaign gaining traction through TikTok. His potential presidency raises concerns about Romania’s pro-Western stance. The runoff is scheduled for December 8. Penelope Kingsley 25/11/2024 4:30 pm
Former deputy national security adviser K. T. McFarland criticized the International Criminal Court (ICC) for issuing arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, calling the actions “outrageous.” She urged the U.S. to take decisive action against the ICC. The warrants have divided global opinion, with countries like the U.S. and Hungary ignoring them, while others like Ireland and the Netherlands support them. McFarland questioned the legitimacy of the ICC, describing its officials as “nameless, faceless bureaucrats.” Penelope Kingsley 25/11/2024 1:00 pm
A Russian missile strike injured 23 people and damaged 41 buildings in Kharkiv, Ukraine. The attack was part of a broader offensive targeting multiple cities, including Kyiv, Odessa, and Zaporizhzhia. Ukraine’s air force reported downing 71 of 145 Russian drones. Russia claimed to have downed 23 Ukrainian drones and eight ballistic missiles. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy called for increased sanctions and support to counter Russian aggression. Kharkiv, near the Russian border, has faced ongoing attacks since the invasion began in 2022. Ava Sinclair 25/11/2024 1:00 pm
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu approved a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah “in principle,” though details remain unresolved. The agreement requires Israeli cabinet approval and ongoing negotiations continue. U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein emphasized the opportunity for peace, warning Israel to respond positively or risk losing U.S. mediation. Talks are progressing, but tensions persist as Israel and Hezbollah continue hostilities. The U.S.-backed proposal seeks a 60-day cessation of hostilities, aiming for a lasting ceasefire. Israel’s military offensive in Lebanon began after border attacks by Hezbollah in solidarity with Hamas. Noah Prescott 25/11/2024 1:00 pm
In Islamabad, police and paramilitaries are prepared for incoming protestors, with roads blocked and officers deployed. A convoy from Balochistan, including women and children, is nearing the city, awaiting the main group led by Ali Amin Gandapur. Protestors have faced police resistance and health issues en route. Despite being imprisoned, Imran Khan remains a significant figure in Pakistan’s opposition politics, with strong social media support and ongoing legal battles. The convoy is still 40km from its destination, D-Chowk. Ava Sinclair 25/11/2024 1:00 pm
