King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived in Sydney for a six-day tour of Australia, marking the King’s first visit since becoming head of state. They were greeted by Governor-General Sam Mostyn and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The Sydney Opera House was illuminated with images of past royal tours, though partially obscured by a delayed cruise ship. Queen Camilla wore a brooch gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1954. The couple will have a day to rest before official engagements begin, with a schedule notably lacking evening events or state dinners. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 9:30 pm
South Korea’s spy agency reported that 1,500 North Korean Special Forces are training in eastern Russia, with satellite photos tracking their movements. North Korea is accused of preparing to send 10,000 troops to support Russia against Ukraine. The NIS tracked North Korean officials providing guidance to Russian forces using North Korean weapons. Kim Jong Un inspected the troops, who were issued Russian uniforms to disguise them. North Korea has sent 13,000 containers of weapons to Russia since August 2023. NATO confirmed 11,000 containers sent, but couldn’t verify large troop deployments. Ava Sinclair 18/10/2024 6:00 pm
President Joe Biden discussed ending the Middle East conflict with European leaders after Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar’s death. They see potential for a Lebanon cease-fire but challenges in Gaza. Biden emphasized planning for post-conflict outcomes but didn’t confirm Israeli readiness for negotiations. He acknowledged understanding Israel’s potential response to Iran’s missile attack but withheld details. British PM Keir Starmer stressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza and supported Israel’s self-defense, viewing Sinwar’s death as a step toward a cease-fire. The U.S. warned Israel to increase aid to Gaza or risk losing weapons funding. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 6:00 pm
U.S. President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz pledged continued support for Ukraine during a meeting in Berlin, amid concerns over a potential Donald Trump election victory. Biden emphasized the importance of maintaining resolve against Russian aggression, as the war enters its third winter. The leaders discussed increasing military support, strengthening Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, and utilizing frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s recovery. Both praised the strong German-American cooperation throughout the conflict. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 6:00 pm
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi praised slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar for his “selfless struggle for liberation” and martyrdom in Gaza. Sinwar, a key Hamas figure since the late 1980s, was killed by Israeli forces, who considered him a major threat after the October 7 attacks. Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu called Sinwar’s death “the beginning of the day after Hamas,” though the conflict continues. Israel had intensely pursued Sinwar, deeming him the most-wanted man in Gaza, and his death raises questions about the future of Hamas and the ongoing conflict. Ava Sinclair 18/10/2024 2:30 pm
The US military conducted airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen using B-2 stealth bombers, targeting five underground weapons-storage sites. The Pentagon highlighted the B-2’s capability to reach hidden targets, sending a message to adversaries like Iran. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the precision and global strike capabilities of the US. This operation marked the first use of B-2s in the counter-Houthi campaign, showcasing America’s ability to target deeply buried facilities. The B-2, a long-range stealth bomber, is based at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 2:30 pm
King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s visit to Australia has sparked debate about the nation’s ties to Britain. The Sydney Opera House will display images of past royal visits. Charles, 75, is undergoing cancer treatment, resulting in a shorter itinerary. While monarchists hope to strengthen ties, opponents, including the Australian Republic Movement, advocate for an Australian head of state. ARM co-chair Esther Anatolitis views the visit as a reminder of Australia’s foreign head of state and hopes for future visits as dignitaries, not monarchs. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 11:00 am
Kenyan senators voted to remove Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office despite his absence due to hospitalization. Gachagua, facing 11 charges, was unable to testify, prompting his lawyer to request a postponement. Senators proceeded without him, leading to his defense team’s exit. The Senate upheld five charges, including inciting ethnic divisions, resulting in Gachagua’s removal and barring him from future public office. This decision follows months of political tension with President William Ruto, consolidating Ruto’s power. Gachagua was cleared of six charges, including corruption. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 7:30 am
Diplomatic relations between Canada and India have deteriorated following accusations that Indian government agents were linked to murder and extortion in Canada. This tension raises concerns about the impact on trade and immigration ties, with bilateral trade valued at billions and Canada hosting 1.7 million people of Indian origin. While no economic retaliations have occurred, experts warn of potential disruptions. Ongoing uncertainty may lead businesses to seek opportunities elsewhere, despite assurances from Canada’s trade minister to maintain commercial ties. Noah Prescott 18/10/2024 7:30 am
King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to visit Australia on a historic royal tour, despite initial doubts due to the King’s cancer diagnosis. In February, Buckingham Palace halted his public duties for treatment, making the trip seem unlikely. However, by late spring, plans progressed, with aides carefully considering medical advice. New Zealand was removed from the itinerary to accommodate the King’s health. While details of his cancer and treatment remain undisclosed, aides report his health is improving, allowing the tour to proceed. Penelope Kingsley 18/10/2024 7:30 am
