Berlin’s Immigration Office plans to deport three EU citizens and one American over alleged actions at a pro-Palestinian protest in October 2024. The individuals, from Ireland, Poland, and the U.S., were ordered to leave Germany by April 21. The deportation orders have sparked concerns about potential conflicts with EU freedom of movement laws. Legal proceedings are ongoing, and one Irish citizen has secured an emergency injunction to delay expulsion. The protesters claim they lack information about specific charges against them. Penelope Kingsley 20/04/2025 5:30 pm
During the Easter Vigil Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis’ homily, read by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, highlighted Christ’s resurrection as a pivotal moment in history, symbolizing hope and transformation from darkness to light. Although recovering from double pneumonia, Pope Francis made a surprise appearance before the Mass. The liturgy, led by Cardinal Re, included traditional rituals like the blessing of the new fire and baptisms. The basilica gradually illuminated, symbolizing Christ’s light, as the congregation renewed their baptismal promises. Ava Sinclair 20/04/2025 2:00 pm
Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan criticized J.K. Rowling on social media over trans rights, calling a recent UK Supreme Court ruling “stomach-churning.” Coughlan shared an article titled “A New Low for JK Rowling” and expressed disinterest in HBO’s new Harry Potter series. The debate over trans rights has polarized the entertainment industry, with Harry Potter stars like Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint supporting trans rights. Rowling responded to criticism with a bemused comment on social media. Penelope Kingsley 20/04/2025 2:00 pm
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected Hamas’s offer to release hostages in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, vowing to intensify military operations. Netanyahu argues that ending the conflict under such terms would encourage further abductions. Despite international and domestic pressure, he insists on continuing the military campaign, which Hamas claims has resulted in 51,000 Palestinian deaths. The proposed deal included the release of 59 hostages, but Netanyahu remains firm on not withdrawing Israeli forces from Gaza, emphasizing the need to fight until victory. Penelope Kingsley 20/04/2025 2:00 pm
Pope Francis appeared in St. Peter’s Square for an Easter Sunday blessing after meeting briefly with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Vatican. The meeting allowed them to exchange Easter greetings. The 88-year-old pontiff, in a wheelchair, blessed the crowd, wishing “Happy Easter” and calling for an end to conflicts in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. He emphasized the importance of humanity and the impact of conflicts on civilians, schools, and hospitals. Ava Sinclair 20/04/2025 2:00 pm
The 700,000 residents of Sudan’s Zamzam camp, already among the world’s poorest, faced devastation when paramilitary Rapid Support Forces attacked, aiming to seize nearby el-Fasher. The camp, Sudan’s largest for internally displaced people, was “completely destroyed,” forcing thousands, including Fathiya Mohammed and Saadiya Adam, to flee. Many endured perilous journeys to Tawila, facing theft, exhaustion, and hunger. Despite RSF’s denial of atrocities, the attack has left Zamzam deserted, with survivors struggling to rebuild their lives once more. Noah Prescott 20/04/2025 2:00 pm
Nicola Coughlan, known for her roles in “Barbie” and “Bridgerton,” criticized J.K. Rowling following a U.K. Supreme Court ruling defining woman by biological sex, which upset trans rights advocates. Rowling celebrated the decision, while Coughlan, appalled by the ruling, launched a fundraiser for the trans-led charity Not A Phase, expressing her dismay at the marginalization of the trans community. Noah Prescott 20/04/2025 7:00 am
A Tunisian court sentenced politicians, businessmen, and lawyers to 13-66 years in a trial criticized as fabricated and authoritarian. Businessman Kamel Ltaif received 66 years, while opposition politician Khayam Turki got 48 years. Prominent figures like Ghazi Chaouachi received 18-year sentences. The trial involved 40 people, with over 20 fleeing abroad. Critics argue President Kais Saied, who secured a second term in 2024, controls the judiciary, having dissolved parliament and sacked judges. Authorities claim the defendants aimed to destabilize the country. Ava Sinclair 20/04/2025 7:00 am
Iran and the U.S. will advance to “expert level” talks next week, following indirect negotiations in Rome between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. negotiator Steve Witkoff. The discussions aim to secure a new deal to halt Iran’s nuclear program, with technical talks set for Wednesday. Both sides agreed to continue negotiations, facilitated by Oman and hosted by Italy. Araghchi noted progress and a better understanding of principles and goals. A third round of indirect talks is planned for next Saturday. Ava Sinclair 20/04/2025 7:00 am
Global oil price changes, driven by new tariffs and trade tensions, threaten Russia’s economy, heavily reliant on energy exports. The oversupply from countries like Saudi Arabia exacerbates the situation, lowering prices and straining Russia’s budget, which depends on oil and gas revenues for 30-35%. Despite plans to reduce dependency, the economy remains vulnerable. Natural gas revenues also plummet due to reduced European exports and discounted Asian sales. The decline in energy revenues is already impacting Russia’s economy, with an 18% drop in February 2025. Noah Prescott 20/04/2025 3:30 am
