In Bangladesh, at least five people were killed as students clashed with police over a quota system that reserves 30% of government jobs for families of 1971 independence war veterans. Tens of thousands protested nationwide, blocking highways and rail links, marking the first major unrest against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government since her fourth term began in January. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse demonstrators, particularly in Rangpur, where a student reportedly died under unclear circumstances. Ava Sinclair 16/07/2024 7:00 pm
The Israeli military will start sending draft notices to Jewish ultra-Orthodox men next week, following a Supreme Court order for their enlistment. This move could destabilize Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government and provoke large protests. Ultra-Orthodox men had been exempt from the draft, causing public resentment, especially after prolonged conflict with Hamas. The enlistment process is lengthy and may face resistance. The court deemed the exemptions discriminatory, but ultra-Orthodox leaders argue that religious study is crucial. Netanyahu’s government depends on ultra-Orthodox parties, which oppose the changes. Ava Sinclair 16/07/2024 7:00 pm
Israeli airstrikes killed over 60 Palestinians in Gaza, including in an Israeli-declared “safe zone” crowded with displaced people. Despite scaling down ground offensives, Israel continues airstrikes, targeting Hamas militants hiding among civilians. The deadliest strike hit a market street in Khan Younis, killing 17. Israel claimed it targeted an Islamic Jihad commander and is investigating civilian casualties. The attack occurred near a previous strike aimed at Hamas’ top military commander. Noah Prescott 16/07/2024 7:00 pm
Hundreds of students were injured in clashes on Monday in Dhaka, Bangladesh, but they’ve refused to back down. Protests erupted at Jahangirnagar University against the reinstatement of a controversial quota system in government jobs. The Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) attacked students, escalating tensions. Protesters sought refuge in the vice chancellor’s residence as armed outsiders approached. The quota system, abolished in 2018, has sparked widespread anger among young Bangladeshis who feel it hurts their job prospects. The protests intensified late Sunday, with thousands demanding the quotas’ elimination. Penelope Kingsley 16/07/2024 3:30 pm
Hungary, under its leader, assumed the EU presidency in July, allowing it to set the bloc’s agenda and host meetings. However, Orbán used this role for a “peace mission,” visiting Russia, China, and the U.S., and promoting Russia-friendly views on Ukraine. In response, several countries, including Estonia, Finland, Lithuania, and Sweden, have boycotted informal EU gatherings in Budapest, with Latvia and Slovenia considering similar actions, potentially hindering Hungary’s policy agenda. Penelope Kingsley 16/07/2024 3:30 pm
Spade-toothed whales are the world’s rarest, with no live sightings recorded. Their population, diet, and habitat in the southern Pacific Ocean remain unknown. Recently, a 16.5ft creature believed to be a spade-toothed whale washed up on New Zealand’s South Island. Identified by its color patterns and skull shape, this specimen could provide groundbreaking scientific insights. If confirmed, it would be the first dissectable specimen, allowing scientists to study its diet and habitat. Only six other spade-toothed whales have been found, but they were buried before DNA testing could confirm their identity. Ava Sinclair 16/07/2024 3:30 pm
The body found in Tenerife during the search for Jay Slater has been confirmed as the missing 19-year-old, officials say. Fingerprint tests identified the body, and his death was caused by “trauma consistent with a fall in a rocky area.” Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, was last seen on 17 June after visiting an Airbnb. His mother, Debbie Duncan, expressed her devastation, calling it the “worst news.” Charity LBT Global, which supports families in missing persons cases, is assisting the family during this difficult time. Penelope Kingsley 16/07/2024 3:30 pm
Romania’s government has authorized the culling of 481 bears in 2024, more than double last year’s total of 220, following a deadly attack on a 19-year-old hiker. The emergency law aims to control bear “overpopulation.” Parliament held a moment of silence for the victim. Environmental groups and experts criticize the measure, arguing it won’t address the root causes like urban sprawl and climate change. Romania has Europe’s largest brown bear population outside Russia, with up to 8,000 bears. Penelope Kingsley 16/07/2024 12:00 pm
Rwandan President Paul Kagame is set to extend his 24-year rule by another five years, winning 99.15% of the vote with 79% of ballots counted. Facing no significant opposition, his two opponents, Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, shared less than 1% of the vote. Kagame thanked Rwandans for their trust, emphasizing the importance of their support. Penelope Kingsley 16/07/2024 12:00 pm
The left-wing alliance New Popular Front (NFP) is struggling to agree on a Prime Minister despite winning the most seats in the French legislative elections. The coalition, including France Unbowed, Socialists, Greens, and Communists, is divided. The Socialists proposed Laurence Tubiana, backed by Greens and Communists, but France Unbowed criticized her for being close to President Macron. France Unbowed suspended discussions, blaming the Socialists for sabotaging negotiations, especially after the Socialists vetoed Huguette Bello, supported by Communists and France Unbowed. Penelope Kingsley 16/07/2024 12:00 pm
