Ukrainian drones have struck Russian ammunition stockpiles in Toropets and Tikhoretsk, causing massive explosions. The attacks likely used Ukraine’s new jet-propelled Palianytsia “missile drone.” The Toropets dump held various munitions, while Tikhoretsk’s was a key logistical base with 2,000 tons of ammo. These strikes, registering as small earthquakes, mark a shift in Ukraine’s deep-strike strategy, using locally-developed weapons due to withheld Western permissions. The new raids are more destructive, indicating a powerful, jet-powered drone, possibly the Palianytsia, capable of significant damage.

Penelope Kingsley 21/09/2024 10:00 pm

Israel’s recent attack on Hezbollah involved exploding pagers and radios, part of a decade-long effort to infiltrate the group. Markings on the devices traced back to a Taiwanese manufacturer and a Hungarian shell company linked to Israeli intelligence. This “red button” capability allows Israel to activate dormant threats. The explosions killed and injured thousands, including civilians, and disrupted Hezbollah’s operations. Despite significant casualties, the attacks haven’t led to major Israeli military incursions. The operation reflects Israel’s deep understanding of Hezbollah’s logistics and communications.

Noah Prescott 21/09/2024 10:00 pm

New Zealand pilot Phillip Mark Mehrtens, held hostage for over a year by separatist rebels in Indonesia’s Papua region, was freed on Saturday. Mehrtens, 38, was abducted on February 7, 2023, while working for Susi Air. He expressed joy at his release and thanked those who helped. Television showed an emotional Mehrtens speaking to his family via video. Rebels in Papua, seeking independence, have escalated violence recently. Initially, they demanded Papua’s sovereignty for Mehrtens’ release but later proposed terms involving media coverage. Mehrtens was flown to Jakarta to reunite with his family.

Penelope Kingsley 21/09/2024 10:00 pm

At least 22 people, mostly women and children, were killed in an Israeli strike on the Al-Zaytoun School near Gaza City, according to Palestinian officials. Israel claimed it targeted Hamas fighters using the school as a command center. The Gaza Civil Defense reported 13 children, including a 3-month-old, among the dead, with others needing amputations. The Israeli military stated precautions were taken to avoid civilian casualties. CNN could not verify the presence of Hamas operatives. Video showed multiple casualties and rescue efforts amid the debris. A woman at the school said there was no warning before the strike.

Ava Sinclair 21/09/2024 10:00 pm

A Hezbollah rocket hit a house in Keitiya near Safed, and another rocket crashed on Highway 89, briefly blocking traffic. The IDF reported 90 rockets crossing from Lebanon into Israel, prompting Home Front Command to advise residents in several western Galilee localities to stay near bomb shelters. Fires broke out in the Biriya Forest, Beit Hillel, and Gush Halav, with ten fire teams responding. The IDF retaliated by dismantling 180 rockets and striking targets in southern Lebanon. The Israel Air Force also targeted rocket launchers. This is a developing story.

Penelope Kingsley 21/09/2024 10:00 pm

The French presidential palace announced a new government led by conservatives and centrists, following elections that resulted in a hung parliament. Despite a left-wing coalition winning the most seats, they failed to secure a majority. Protests erupted against the government, which critics say ignores voters’ will. President Macron appointed conservative Michel Barnier as prime minister, who formed the government after tough negotiations. The far-right National Rally has no seats but can influence parliament. Key appointments include Jean-Noël Barrot as foreign minister and Antoine Armand as finance minister.

Penelope Kingsley 21/09/2024 10:00 pm

An Israeli strike on a former school in northern Gaza killed at least 22 people and wounded 30, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The Israeli army claimed it targeted a Hamas command center. Video showed people digging through rubble and mourning. The Gaza Health Ministry also reported five workers killed and five wounded in a separate strike on its warehouses. The incident highlights ongoing disputes over the use of civilian sites in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Penelope Kingsley 21/09/2024 6:30 pm

New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens has been freed after over 18 months in captivity by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in Indonesia’s Papua region. Mehrtens, kidnapped on February 7, 2023, was held to pressure New Zealand into lobbying for Papua’s secession from Indonesia. He expressed gratitude and relief at a press conference in Timika, Indonesia. New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters confirmed Mehrtens’ safety and praised the government’s efforts. The TPNPB, designated a terrorist organization by Indonesia, has a history of taking hostages to further its cause.

Ava Sinclair 21/09/2024 6:30 pm

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told CNN that Ukraine’s request to use long-range missiles on targets inside Russia is part of his “victory plan,” which he will present to US officials next week. Zelensky has been urging allies to ease weapon restrictions, but the US and UK have not yet permitted their use on Russian territory due to escalation fears. Zelensky remains hopeful his arguments will be heard, noting past successful dialogues with President Biden. He also plans to discuss the plan with Vice President Kamala Harris.

Noah Prescott 21/09/2024 6:30 pm

In London and Edinburgh, baby slings have been draped on statues of famous men, including Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Thierry Henry, and Gene Kelly, to raise awareness of the U.K.’s paternity leave policies. The campaign, led by The Dad Shift, aims to highlight the roles of fathers and advocate for more paid time off for new dads. Statues of Ken Buchanan, Laurence Olivier, and Tony Adams also featured baby carriers. The U.K. offers just two weeks of paternity leave at £184.03 per week, lagging behind countries like France and Spain, which offer significantly more paid leave.

Noah Prescott 21/09/2024 6:30 pm