“The Great Moose Migration,” a Swedish slow TV show, captivates viewers like Ulla Malmgren, who prepared to watch the 20-day, 24-hour event without missing a moment. The show, also known as “The Great Elk Trek,” began in 2019 and reached 9 million viewers in 2024. The livestream, starting early due to warm weather, captures moose swimming across the Ă…ngerman River during their spring migration. Fans appreciate the slow pace, finding it relaxing yet exciting. William Garp Liljefors, a dedicated fan, has collected over 150 moose plush toys. Noah Prescott 16/04/2025 7:00 pm
Israel’s defense minister announced that troops will remain in Gaza’s “security zones” post-war to protect Israeli communities. These zones, expanded by “tens of per cent” during the offensive, serve as a buffer. Despite UN warnings of humanitarian crises, Israel continues its blockade to pressure Hamas. MĂ©decins Sans Frontières and other organizations highlight the severe impact on Gaza’s population, with over 1,650 Palestinians killed since March 18. The UN reports 69% of Gaza is under evacuation orders, displacing 500,000 people. The IDF claims to have killed “hundreds of terrorists” and established a new security perimeter. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 7:00 pm
Two Belgian teenagers, Lornoy David and Seppe Lodewijckx, were charged with wildlife piracy in Kenya after being caught with 5,000 ants in test tubes. They claimed ignorance of the law, stating they collected the ants for fun. Kenyan Dennis Ng’ang’a and Vietnamese Duh Hung Nguyen faced similar charges for possessing 400 ants. The Kenya Wildlife Service highlighted the shift in trafficking trends from large mammals to lesser-known species like the messor cephalotes ant. Authorities valued the ants at $7,700, emphasizing their ecological importance. Noah Prescott 16/04/2025 3:30 pm
Hamas has rejected an Israeli proposal for a 45-day ceasefire in Gaza, which included releasing 10 hostages and negotiating the disarmament of Palestinian militant groups. The proposal, mediated by Egypt, aimed for a permanent end to the conflict but required U.S. guarantees. Despite initial optimism from mediators, Hamas is not accepting the terms, which included disarming all militant groups in Gaza. Israel has not publicly disclosed negotiation details, and discussions remain confidential. Ava Sinclair 16/04/2025 3:30 pm
Britain and the EU pledged over $1 billion to alleviate Sudan’s humanitarian crisis on the civil war’s second anniversary. The London conference, co-hosted by the African Union, aimed to address the crisis, not negotiate peace. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the need for “patient diplomacy” to achieve peace. The EU committed $590 million, and the UK $158 million. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stressed that humanitarian aid alone won’t suffice if the war continues. Sudanese military and paramilitary representatives were not invited, highlighting the lack of political will as a major peace obstacle. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 3:30 pm
Gaza is described as a “mass grave” by MSF, with Israeli military actions killing at least 13 people and demolishing homes. Notable casualties include writer Fatema Hassouna. The humanitarian situation is dire, with critical shortages of supplies and medical care. Efforts to restore a ceasefire have stalled, with Israel and Hamas at an impasse. Israel’s suspension of essential supplies is worsening conditions, affecting hospitals and patients. Israel claims these measures pressure Hamas, while Hamas calls it “collective punishment.” Noah Prescott 16/04/2025 3:30 pm
China and Vietnam reaffirmed their commitment to a multilateral trade regime centered around the WTO during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit. They opposed hegemony and unilateralism, emphasizing multilateralism amid global uncertainties. The visit coincided with U.S. tariff challenges for both nations. Vietnam expressed interest in discussing a partnership with BRICS, having attended a summit as an observer, but has not yet accepted a formal invitation. Brazil’s President Lula invited Vietnam to the upcoming BRICS summit in July. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 12:00 pm
Ukrainian President Zelensky dismissed Sumy Governor Volodymyr Artiukh and Luhansk Governor Artem Lysohor after a Russian missile strike killed 35 in Sumy. No official reason was given, but Artiukh faced criticism for allegedly organizing a military awards ceremony on the attack day. Oleh Hryhorov and Oleksii Kharchenka were appointed as new governors. Russia claimed the strike targeted military personnel, denying civilian targeting. Artiukh denied organizing the event. The Moscow Times faces legal challenges in Russia, labeled as “undesirable” and a “foreign agent.” Noah Prescott 16/04/2025 12:00 pm
The Worldwide Painted Lady Migration Project has traced the migratory route of painted lady butterflies, revealing their journey from equatorial Africa to northern Europe and back. Over a decade, scientists identified 10 generations of these butterflies, which follow seasonal rains and blooming flowers. Photographer Lucas Foglia documented this migration from 2021-2024, highlighting their adaptability to climate change. His book, “Constant Bloom,” showcases how these butterflies adjust their routes as weather patterns shift, finding nectar in diverse environments, from roadside flowers to high-altitude blooms near melting glaciers. Ava Sinclair 16/04/2025 12:00 pm
Israel’s defense minister announced that troops will indefinitely remain in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, complicating ceasefire talks with Hamas. Israeli forces have seized over half of Gaza to pressure Hamas for hostage release. Israel maintains control in Lebanon and Syria, citing security needs after past attacks. Palestinians and neighboring countries view this as illegal occupation. Hamas demands full Israeli withdrawal for hostage release. Israel argues control is necessary to prevent future attacks. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement in Gaza. Penelope Kingsley 16/04/2025 12:00 pm
