A 2018 European Commission study highlights future conflicts over water access, identifying vulnerable hotspots like the Nile, Ganges-Brahmaputra, Indus, Tigris-Euphrates, and Colorado rivers. Climate change and population growth exacerbate competition for water, leading to potential “hydro-political issues.” Experts predict 21st-century conflicts will focus on water, unlike the oil-driven wars of the 20th century. Water’s critical role in survival and socio-economic growth heightens concerns, with treaties like the Indus Waters Treaty becoming crucial, especially for countries like Pakistan. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
In his second presidency’s first 100 days, President Trump has pushed his agenda aggressively, sometimes at odds with foundational U.S. principles. In a Time interview, Trump expressed skepticism about the U.S. being a nation ruled solely by laws, suggesting that individuals play a significant role. He hinted at exploring legal loopholes for a potential third term, despite claiming no knowledge of such possibilities. His administration’s approach has been marked by attempts to reshape governance, raising concerns about adherence to traditional legal frameworks. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
President Donald Trump is traveling to Rome for Pope Francis’s funeral, offering a chance for diplomacy with leaders like Ukraine’s Zelensky, UK’s Starmer, and France’s Macron, though Russia’s Putin will be absent. Meanwhile, Trump’s approval on immigration has declined, per a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll. Domestically, Trump announced new tariffs on Chinese imports and is in a legal battle with Harvard over its tax-exempt status. His administration is also downsizing federal agencies, affecting jobs across various departments. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
The World Food Program’s food stocks in Gaza have depleted due to Israel’s blockade, affecting hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. The WFP delivered its last supplies to charity kitchens, which are expected to run out soon. Around 80% of Gaza’s population relies on these kitchens, which provide 644,000 meals daily. Israel’s blockade, aimed at pressuring Hamas, has been criticized as a “starvation tactic.” The Israeli military agency COGAT declined to comment on remaining supplies, while Israel accuses Hamas of diverting aid, a claim humanitarian workers dispute. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following a deadly militant attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, which India attributes to Pakistan. Despite Pakistan’s denial, the incident has led to an exchange of fire across the Kashmir border. The UN has urged both nations to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration. Friday’s gunfire ended without casualties, but Indian analysts predict potential military responses. The attack, targeting mostly Hindu tourists, was claimed by a group India alleges is backed by Pakistan. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 8:00 pm
Gen Yaroslav Moskalik was killed in a car bomb attack in Moscow, confirmed by Russia’s Investigative Committee. The explosion occurred near his home in Balashikha. Russian officials labeled it a “terrorist attack,” but no group has claimed responsibility. Moskalik was involved in the 2015 Minsk agreements with Ukraine. Ukraine typically does not claim responsibility for such attacks, though unnamed sources have hinted at involvement. The incident coincides with US-Russia talks on the Ukraine conflict, with Moscow expressing readiness for a deal. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
The funeral Mass for Pope Francis will be held on April 26, attended by 250 cardinals and numerous clergy. The coffin will be placed at the Basilica’s forecourt, facing a diverse crowd. The Mass, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, includes multilingual prayers and the Sistine Chapel Choir. Following the Mass, the coffin will be transported to Saint Mary Major, allowing Romans to bid farewell. The procession will conclude with a tribute from marginalized individuals, reflecting Pope Francis’ inclusive legacy. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has exhausted its food stocks in Gaza, leaving hot meal kitchens and bakeries without supplies. These kitchens, crucial for food assistance, are expected to run out soon. No supplies have entered Gaza for over seven weeks due to closed borders, causing food prices to soar by up to 1,400%. Essential food and water shortages threaten vulnerable populations. WFP has 116,000 metric tons of food ready to enter once borders reopen, but urgent action is needed to prevent a humanitarian crisis. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
China launched three astronauts to its Tiangong space station to replace the current crew, who will return on April 29. The Shenzhou-20 mission, led by veteran astronaut Chen Dong, includes first-timers Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie. The crew will conduct space walks, install debris protection, and perform physics and medical experiments, including studying planarians for regenerative research. China aims to become a leading space power, planning a Moon mission by 2030. Excluded from the ISS due to US security concerns, China seeks international space partnerships. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty raises questions about its ability to stop river water from flowing into Pakistan. The treaty, which survived past conflicts, allocates the eastern rivers to India and the western ones to Pakistan. India accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorism, prompting the suspension. Pakistan relies heavily on the Indus basin for agriculture and hydropower, and views stopping water flow as an “Act of War.” While India seeks to review the treaty, the suspension marks the first time either country has taken such a step, with India having a geographic advantage as the upstream nation. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
