Tahawwur Rana, a Pakistani-born Canadian businessman, was extradited to India from the U.S. for his alleged role in the 2008 Mumbai attacks that killed over 160 people. The National Investigation Agency secured his extradition after years of efforts, following the U.S. Supreme Court’s rejection of his petitions. Noah Prescott 11/04/2025 9:30 am
Last Monday, the Israeli army bombed a journalists’ tent outside Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, killing journalist Ahmad Mansour and injuring others, including Hassan Eslayeh. The army claimed Hassan was a “Hamas terrorist” and part of the Qassam Brigades, accusing him of infiltrating Israeli territory and documenting attacks. Hassan, who survived but was severely injured, denied the allegations, stating Israel often falsely accuses Palestinian journalists and aid workers of Hamas affiliations. This follows similar incidents, including the assassination of journalist Hossam Shabat and the killing of paramedics in Rafah. Penelope Kingsley 11/04/2025 9:30 am
The UK announced £450m in military support for Ukraine, with £350m from the UK and additional funds from Norway. The package includes drones, anti-tank mines, and vehicle repairs. UK Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the need to deter Russian aggression and support Ukraine’s defense. The aid aims to strengthen Ukraine’s position, with 2025 deemed critical. This follows previous UK military pledges, including a £1.6bn missile deal and a £2.2bn loan for further aid. Noah Prescott 11/04/2025 9:30 am
President Trump is focusing his trade war efforts on China, but his “America First” policies have strained relationships with key U.S. allies. While Trump has increased tariffs on Chinese imports to 145%, he has temporarily eased tariffs on other global goods. This approach has disrupted global trade and allowed China to position itself as a stable alternative, potentially exploiting U.S. isolationism to increase its global influence. Noah Prescott 11/04/2025 9:30 am
Chinese leader Xi Jinping expressed defiance in the escalating trade war with the US, as China raised tariffs on US goods to 125%. This move follows the US increasing tariffs on China to 145%. Xi emphasized China’s resilience and self-reliance, criticizing the US for using tariffs as a coercive tool. Despite the tariff hikes, China stated it won’t escalate further, viewing additional increases as meaningless. The trade conflict has unsettled global markets and raised recession fears. Xi’s comments underscore China’s stance against US “unilateral bullying,” while maintaining focus on internal affairs. Ava Sinclair 11/04/2025 9:30 am
Carwin Javie Molleja was at Santo Domingo’s Jet Set nightclub with his mother when the ceiling collapsed during a concert by merengue singer Rubby Pérez. Initially dismissing a small stone falling, disaster struck, leading to chaos and panic. Carwin and his mother were hit by debris but avoided serious injury. Rubby Pérez was among the fatalities. Carwin managed to escape with his mother but returned to search for his friend Jessica and her sister amidst the chaos. Ava Sinclair 11/04/2025 9:30 am
Nearly seven years ago, President Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, originally brokered by Obama with global powers. Trump criticized it as overly favorable to Iran and reinstated sanctions, arguing it failed to address Iran’s nonnuclear activities. Despite the deal’s success in limiting Iran’s nuclear capabilities, Trump’s “maximum pressure” approach left Iran closer to developing nuclear weapons. Biden’s subsequent diplomatic efforts saw limited success, while Iran expanded its enrichment and regional proxy activities. Ava Sinclair 11/04/2025 9:30 am
Washington’s decision not to coordinate with European nations on Iran negotiations may reduce U.S. leverage and increase the likelihood of military action, analysts say. The U.S. did not inform European countries about nuclear talks in Oman, despite their key role in potential U.N. sanctions on Tehran. Coordination with European allies is crucial for diplomatic success, according to Blaise Misztal. Trump reiterated threats of military force against Iran if it doesn’t halt its nuclear program. The U.S. cannot initiate U.N. sanctions due to its exit from the 2015 nuclear accord, making European cooperation essential. Penelope Kingsley 11/04/2025 6:00 am
Ukraine’s allies, excluding the U.S., discussed forming a security mission to enforce a peace deal with Russia, but progress is hindered by ongoing conflict. British Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the need for a negotiated peace. Despite U.S. President Trump’s push for a ceasefire, Russia continues its offensive. Intelligence suggests Putin believes in a potential military victory. The coalition aims to support Ukraine with air, sea, and ground assistance, focusing on safe skies, seas, peace on land, and a strong military. Penelope Kingsley 11/04/2025 6:00 am
The trade tensions between the U.S. and China have escalated dramatically, with high tariff rates and severe export restrictions. This situation is forcing a decoupling, as China targets critical areas like the U.S. manufacturing sector, which is vital for the economy. Tech companies such as Apple and Nvidia, which rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing and markets, are particularly vulnerable to these developments. Ava Sinclair 11/04/2025 6:00 am