A beluga whale, nicknamed “Hvaldimir,” found dead off Norway’s coast, died from a bacterial infection, not a gunshot, as per Norwegian police. The infection likely resulted from a mouth wound caused by a stuck stick. Despite animal rights groups’ claims of intentional killing, autopsy results showed no gunshot wounds or metal fragments. The whale, first seen in 2019 with a harness suggesting Russian ties, was found in a bay on August 31. Police found no foul play, so no criminal investigation will be pursued. Penelope Kingsley 04/10/2024 6:00 pm
Israel conducted airstrikes on Beirut’s suburbs, targeting Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters and cutting off the main Lebanon-Syria border crossing. The strikes, which included over 10 consecutive hits, aimed to weaken Hezbollah, reportedly killing 100 fighters in 24 hours. The conflict has resulted in 1,400 Lebanese deaths and displaced 1.2 million people. Hezbollah retaliated with 100 rockets into Israel. A key crossing was blocked, and a senior Hezbollah communications leader, Mohammed Rashid Skafi, was killed. Israel claims the crossing was used for smuggling weapons. Noah Prescott 04/10/2024 6:00 pm
At least 78 people drowned and many are missing after the MV Merdy, carrying 278 passengers, capsized near Lake Kivu’s shore in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The boat, built for 80, was nearing Kituku port outside Goma. Overcrowding on Lake Kivu routes has increased due to regional conflict, making roads unsafe. Survivors report significant losses, with ongoing efforts to recover bodies. The tragedy highlights the dangers faced by those avoiding conflict-affected roads. Ava Sinclair 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
The Israel-Gaza conflict began on October 7 with a Hamas attack on Israel, leading to war and significant regional displacement. Israel’s response included a ground invasion and intensified airstrikes, notably killing Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Hostilities with Hezbollah in Lebanon escalated, resulting in over 1,400 deaths, including Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah. In Gaza, Israel’s military actions have caused severe destruction and humanitarian crises, with tens of thousands killed and widespread famine-like conditions. The U.S. has been involved amid tensions with Israeli leadership. Noah Prescott 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
Recent tensions in the Middle East have escalated with Israeli strikes on Yemen’s Hudaydah port and Beirut, reportedly killing a Hezbollah air unit commander. In Lebanon, Israeli attacks have led to evacuations in Tyre and fears of a ground invasion. Meanwhile, Hezbollah rockets have hit northern Israel, and explosions from devices in Lebanon have caused casualties. Amidst the conflict, Gaza is conducting a polio vaccination campaign for children following a recent case. Ava Sinclair 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
On 7 October, the Nahal Oz Israeli military base near the Gaza border was overrun by Hamas, resulting in over 60 Israeli soldiers killed and others taken hostage. Despite prior suspicious activity, many soldiers were unarmed, and surveillance equipment was compromised. The IDF is investigating why intelligence warnings were ignored, why reinforcements delayed, and whether the base’s infrastructure left soldiers vulnerable. Survivors’ accounts and recordings reveal the attack’s speed and ferocity. The IDF has yet to release an official report but has briefed victims’ families. Penelope Kingsley 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
Twelve bodies showing signs of torture were found in Guanajuato, Mexico, attributed to cartel disputes. Guanajuato, an industrial and tourist hub, is Mexico’s most violent state. The victims, three women and nine men, were discovered in Salamanca with gunshot wounds and cartel messages. This violence follows a recent attack on an addiction center, killing four. Guanajuato’s violence is linked to a war between the Santa Rosa de Lima and Jalisco New Generation cartels. The state has seen numerous attacks on civilians, politicians, and police. Ava Sinclair 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
The Indian government opposes petitions to criminalize marital rape, arguing existing laws suffice to protect women. The Supreme Court is reviewing petitions to amend a British-era law exempting marital rape from prosecution. Despite global pressure and rampant domestic violence, India remains among countries not criminalizing marital rape. Campaigners argue forced sex is rape, regardless of marital status. The Delhi High Court’s split verdict in 2022 led to the Supreme Court hearings. The government’s stance reflects deep-rooted patriarchal traditions, viewing marriage as sacrosanct. Noah Prescott 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
Senior U.S. Republicans criticized the British decision to transfer control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, citing potential risks to U.S. and U.K. security and increased Chinese influence. The deal allows Mauritius, which has ties to Beijing, to gain control, though the U.S. military base Diego Garcia will remain under U.K. control. Penelope Kingsley 04/10/2024 2:30 pm
Israeli airstrikes in Beirut targeted Hezbollah, causing large explosions near the airport and killing 37 people in 24 hours. The strikes aimed at Hashem Safieddine, a potential successor to Hezbollah’s former leader. The Lebanese army reported two soldiers killed in the south amid ongoing Israeli invasion efforts. The Red Cross confirmed injuries during coordinated evacuations. The IDF ordered evacuations of 20 more towns, including Nabatieh, as tensions escalated. Hezbollah claimed attacks on Israeli troops, while Israel reported killing Hezbollah fighters near the border. Noah Prescott 04/10/2024 11:00 am
