China and Russia began a joint naval exercise in southern China, days after NATO labeled Beijing a “decisive enabler” of the Ukraine war. The Chinese defense ministry stated the operation, unrelated to international situations, aims to showcase naval capabilities in addressing security threats. The drills, including anti-missile exercises, will last until mid-July. This follows NATO’s communiquĂ© highlighting shared security concerns from Russia and China. China accused NATO of seeking security at others’ expense and maintained its objective stance on Ukraine. Penelope Kingsley 15/07/2024 4:00 am
Top Chinese officials will convene in Beijing to address economic challenges at a key political meeting, the third plenum, overseen by President Xi Jinping. The world’s second-largest economy faces a real estate debt crisis, weakening consumption, an ageing population, and geopolitical tensions. Analysts hope for significant economic support, but expect modest policy tweaks rather than sweeping reforms. State media indicated the focus would be on deepening reform and advancing modernization. The People’s Daily suggested limited changes, emphasizing long-term ideas over short-term adjustments. Liam Harrington 15/07/2024 2:30 am
Mutilated and dismembered female bodies were found in plastic bags at a dump site in the Mukuru slums of southern Nairobi. Kenyan police discovered six bodies on Friday and additional body parts on Saturday, totaling eight bodies. Preliminary investigations revealed the victims were females aged 18 to 30. Authorities are considering various leads, including serial killers, cults, and rogue medical practitioners, and have pledged a transparent and swift investigation. Noah Prescott 15/07/2024 1:00 am
Former President Donald Trump called for unity after surviving an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally, which left one bystander dead and two critically wounded. The gunman’s motive remains unknown, and President Joe Biden ordered an independent security review. The FBI is investigating the incident as potential domestic terrorism. The attack has temporarily cooled the heated 2024 presidential campaign. Trump, whose right ear was grazed by a bullet, is in good spirits and headed to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Noah Prescott 14/07/2024 11:30 pm
Mohammed Deif, the longtime leader of Hamas’s Qassam Brigades, has survived another Israeli assassination attempt. A senior Hamas official confirmed Deif is “fine” and overseeing military operations after a massive Israeli air strike on Gaza’s southern area, which killed at least 90 and wounded 300. Israel targeted Deif in the al-Mawasi camp, a humanitarian zone, but claims Hamas is hiding the strike’s true results. Deif, a key figure in planning attacks against Israel, has been a top target for over 20 years. Noah Prescott 14/07/2024 10:00 pm
China and Russia’s naval forces began a joint exercise in southern China, days after NATO labeled Beijing a “decisive enabler” of the Ukraine war. The Chinese defense ministry stated the operation, which includes anti-missile exercises and air defense, is unrelated to international tensions. The drills, running until mid-July, aim to showcase naval capabilities in maintaining global and regional stability. This follows NATO’s communiquĂ© highlighting shared security concerns from Russia and China. China accused NATO of seeking security at others’ expense and defended its stance on Ukraine. Noah Prescott 14/07/2024 7:00 pm
The annual Bastille Day celebrations in Paris featured a less militaristic parade, incorporating athletes and Olympic volunteers alongside soldiers, medics, and police officers. Due to Olympic preparations, the parade was relocated to Avenue Foch. Spectator numbers were limited to 6,200, requiring advance registration due to space and security concerns. The traditional air show continued, with jets displaying French flag colors. The event also marked the 80th anniversary of France’s liberation from the Nazis. Noah Prescott 14/07/2024 7:00 pm
At least 17 Palestinians were killed and 50 wounded in an Israeli assault on Gaza City, following a failed strike targeting Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, who masterminded the 7 October attack on southern Israel. The assault occurred less than 24 hours after a strike in Khan Younis killed over 90 and injured 300. Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple houses, aiming at top Hamas officials, including Rafa Salama. Despite claims, Hamas asserts Deif survived and remains active. Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to reach Hamas’s leadership. Gabriel Whitaker 14/07/2024 2:31 pm
Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, vowed to retaliate against a new South Korean leafleting campaign by resuming the launch of trash-carrying balloons across the border. Since late May, North Korea has sent balloons with waste materials in response to South Korean activists’ political leaflets. South Korea suspended a 2018 tension-reduction deal and resumed border drills. Kim Yo Jong warned South Korea of severe consequences for their actions. North Korea last sent such balloons in late July. Gabriel Whitaker 14/07/2024 2:31 pm
Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, made a grand return to Wimbledon, appearing in good spirits despite undergoing cancer treatment. She attended the event with her 9-year-old daughter, Princess Charlotte. Kate wore a stunning purple dress, while Charlotte donned a blue polka dot dress. Princess Catherine is set to present the trophy for the match between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz. Liam Harrington 14/07/2024 2:30 pm
