Israel has declared halting Hezbollah’s attacks in the north to allow residents to return home as an official war goal, amid considerations of a wider military operation in Lebanon. This follows near-daily attacks since the Israel-Hamas war began. Israel has responded with airstrikes and targeted Hezbollah commanders. The security Cabinet’s statement signals a tougher stance but may be symbolic. The conflict has displaced tens of thousands on both sides. The U.S. has urged restraint, while Israeli media report potential leadership changes, including possibly replacing Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

Noah Prescott 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

An al-Qaeda-linked group, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), claimed responsibility for an early morning attack in Bamako, Mali, targeting a military training school and other areas. The assault, the first in years in Bamako, resulted in heavy human and material losses. JNIM, active in the Sahel region, stated the “special operation” struck both the training center and Bamako’s military airport. Mali’s government confirmed the attacks but did not mention casualties, while reports indicated several security officers were killed or injured. The situation was later declared under control.

Penelope Kingsley 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

The Biden administration continues efforts to secure a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas through shuttle diplomacy, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken visiting Egypt to establish broader regional security. Despite indirect negotiations led by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, hopes for ending the nearly year-long Gaza war remain slim. Blinken’s 10th Middle East trip since the October 2023 Hamas attacks, which killed 1,139 and abducted 251 Israelis, is unlikely to yield breakthroughs. Both sides are at an impasse over the Philadelphi Corridor. Israel’s updated war aims now include addressing Hezbollah threats and ensuring the safe return of 60,000 northern residents.

Ava Sinclair 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

Seven people have died and over 50 are injured due to wildfires in central and northern Portugal. Three firefighters were killed when their vehicle was trapped in flames. Portugal’s civil protection service reported 54 active wildfires, mainly in the north, with 5,300 firefighters deployed. France, Greece, Italy, and Spain sent water-bombing planes. Fires near Nelas and Aveiro have consumed over 10,000 hectares. The national civil protection commander warned that fires could consume an additional 20,000 hectares. Portugal faces extreme fire risk, with an extended warning until Thursday night.

Ava Sinclair 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

Independent U.N. human rights experts reported that Venezuela’s government has intensified violent repression following the disputed July 28 presidential election, widely criticized as undemocratic. The U.N.-backed Human Rights Council’s fact-finding mission denounced arbitrary detentions, torture, and sexual violence by security forces, constituting crimes against humanity. The report, covering up to August 31, highlights increased repression post-election, echoing concerns from global leaders about Venezuela’s democracy and the exile of opposition leader Edmundo González. Marta Valiñas, head of the experts team, noted intensified repression between July 29 and August.

Noah Prescott 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

On Sunday, Yemen’s Houthis launched a missile at central Israel, causing fires and triggering air raid sirens near Ben Gurion Airport. Nine people suffered minor injuries. The Houthis claimed it was a hypersonic missile, but Israel disputed this, saying it did not maneuver in flight. Analyst Mohammed Al-Basha suggested it was likely supersonic, not hypersonic, unless advanced technology was provided by Russia or North Korea. The missile design resembles Iran’s medium-range ballistic missiles, with distinct Houthi markings. The Houthis have been attacking ships linked to Israel since November in solidarity with Palestinians.

Penelope Kingsley 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

Datena struck Marçal during a debate after Marçal referenced dismissed sexual harassment allegations against Datena. Datena admitted to losing his cool but did not apologize, stating he didn’t regret his actions. Marçal received medical treatment for possible fractures and trauma. He compared the attack to an assassination attempt on Donald Trump and plans to take legal action. The impact on the mayoral election remains unclear.

Ava Sinclair 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

Dominique Pelicot, 71, admitted to drugging his wife and recruiting men to abuse her for over 10 years. He acknowledged his guilt alongside 50 co-defendants, only 15 of whom admit to rape. His ex-wife, Gisèle, expressed her shock and betrayal. The trial, open to the public at Gisèle’s request, aims to shift shame onto the accused. Gisèle has become a symbol of resilience, sparking national discussions on marital rape and consent. Thousands have shown support for her and other victims across France.

Noah Prescott 17/09/2024 4:30 pm

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expanded his war goals in Gaza to include enabling Israelis who fled areas near the Lebanese border to return home. This follows almost daily cross-border fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, displacing tens of thousands and risking wider conflict. Netanyahu’s security cabinet approved this decision, emphasizing military action as the only solution. Despite ongoing US-led negotiations for a ceasefire, Netanyahu insists on an Israeli military presence on the Egypt-Gaza border. Hezbollah continues attacks, complicating efforts for a truce.

Noah Prescott 17/09/2024 1:00 pm

More than 5,000 firefighters are battling wildfires across Portugal, with temperatures exceeding 30C (86F). João Silva, a firefighter, died from a sudden illness while fighting a blaze. At least two people have died, and 10,000 hectares have burned. There are 128 active wildfires, with hospitals treating burn and respiratory injuries. Motorways, including the main road between Lisbon and Porto, are closed. Twelve firefighters are injured, two seriously. The EU is sending eight firefighting planes, and Portugal has deployed over 1,500 fire engines.

Ava Sinclair 17/09/2024 1:00 pm