An Israeli plot to target Hezbollah involved weaponized pagers with deceptive batteries containing plastic explosives and a novel detonator invisible to X-rays. The design included a PETN explosive sheet and a flammable detonator strip, all encased in a metal casing. To mask the device’s unusual bulk, fake online stores and posts were created. Despite Hezbollah’s security checks, the devices went undetected. The operation highlights sophisticated tactics in the ongoing conflict, pushing the Middle East closer to regional war. Penelope Kingsley 16/10/2024 1:30 pm
At the SCO Summit in Islamabad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted regional challenges, subtly referencing China and Pakistan. He emphasized the need for trust, cooperation, and adherence to the SCO Charter for regional integration. Jaishankar criticized China’s border violations and Pakistan’s use of cross-border terrorism, stressing that dialogue requires a terror-free atmosphere. He called for cooperation based on mutual respect, territorial integrity, and genuine partnerships, warning against unilateral agendas. Jaishankar also addressed the “three evils”—terrorism, extremism, and separatism—hindering regional development and peace. Ava Sinclair 16/10/2024 1:30 pm
A new documentary by Spain’s RTVE, “Columbus’ DNA, his true origin,” explores the theory that Christopher Columbus was a Sephardic Jew from Valencia, Spain, rather than Genoa, Italy. Forensic expert JosĂ© Antonio Lorente examines various hypotheses about Columbus’ origins, using DNA evidence and historical records. The documentary supports the theory proposed by Catalan architect Francesc Albardaner, who argues Columbus was part of the Jewish diaspora in the Iberian Peninsula. However, some scientists question Lorente’s methods and note his findings lack peer review. Penelope Kingsley 16/10/2024 1:30 pm
In Sinaloa, Mexico, cartel gunmen target youths by checking their cellphones for rival contacts or incriminating chats. Finding such evidence can lead to the phone owner’s death and endanger everyone on their contact list. This has instilled fear in Culiacan residents, who avoid traveling even short distances due to cartel roadblocks. A local journalist highlights the danger, citing an incident where a news photographer’s son and two others were kidnapped after a phone check; only the photographer’s son was released. Noah Prescott 16/10/2024 1:30 pm
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy acknowledged Western pressure to negotiate with Russia, unveiling a victory plan for peace. He emphasized Ukraine’s refusal of territorial compromises and highlighted foreign military support for Russia. Zelenskyy proposed NATO membership for Ukraine, despite some allies’ reluctance, as a strategic move to influence Russia’s actions. The plan aims to end the war by next year, with Ukrainian parliament prioritizing necessary legislation. The mood in Ukraine remains somber amid ongoing conflict. Ava Sinclair 16/10/2024 1:30 pm
U.S. officials expressed concern over reports of North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused North Korea of transferring troops, citing intelligence briefings. This follows claims from South Korea about North Korean officers killed in Ukraine. Russia dismissed these allegations as “fake news.” U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson Lt. Col. Charlie Dietz and State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the potential implications for DPRK-Russia relations and Russia’s desperation in the conflict. Penelope Kingsley 16/10/2024 10:00 am
Following a diplomatic crisis, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau sought UK support against alleged Indian agent campaigns targeting Canadian citizens. Trudeau and UK PM Keir Starmer emphasized the rule of law. Canada is investigating incidents linked to Indian operatives. Pro-Khalistan groups urged global solidarity with Canada. The crisis involves the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, designated a terrorist by India, which has heightened tensions and calls for international scrutiny of India’s actions. Penelope Kingsley 16/10/2024 10:00 am
Israel has restricted food aid to northern Gaza, affecting 400,000 Palestinians, according to U.N. agencies. Human rights groups claim Israel’s policy forces residents to either starve or flee south, where safety isn’t assured. Under U.S. pressure, Israel may reconsider this approach. The U.S. has warned it might cut military aid unless humanitarian aid increases. Israel denies intentionally blocking food. Fuel shortages are also critical, impacting hospitals and essential services. UNRWA describes the situation as catastrophic. Noah Prescott 16/10/2024 6:30 am
The U.N. special envoy warned that Yemen risks further military escalation, with Houthi attacks on international shipping increasing the risk of an environmental disaster in the Red Sea. Both the envoy and the U.N.’s acting humanitarian chief urged the Iranian-backed Houthis to stop these attacks, which began to support Hamas after its attack on Israel. They also demanded the release of detained U.N. personnel and others, held since June. Noah Prescott 16/10/2024 6:30 am
A new video shows a Taiwanese F-16 tracking a Chinese J-15 fighter jet during China’s “Joint Sword-2024B” military exercise around Taiwan. The drill involved a record number of Chinese aircraft and warships. The footage, released by Taiwan’s Military News Agency, highlights the F-16’s Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod, developed by Lockheed Martin, used for precision targeting and surveillance. The J-15, a carrier-based multirole fighter, was tracked as part of China’s exercise, which included operations from the Liaoning carrier near Taiwan. Noah Prescott 16/10/2024 6:30 am
