The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has exhausted its food stocks in Gaza, leaving hot meal kitchens and bakeries without supplies. These kitchens, crucial for food assistance, are expected to run out soon. No supplies have entered Gaza for over seven weeks due to closed borders, causing food prices to soar by up to 1,400%. Essential food and water shortages threaten vulnerable populations. WFP has 116,000 metric tons of food ready to enter once borders reopen, but urgent action is needed to prevent a humanitarian crisis. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
China launched three astronauts to its Tiangong space station to replace the current crew, who will return on April 29. The Shenzhou-20 mission, led by veteran astronaut Chen Dong, includes first-timers Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie. The crew will conduct space walks, install debris protection, and perform physics and medical experiments, including studying planarians for regenerative research. China aims to become a leading space power, planning a Moon mission by 2030. Excluded from the ISS due to US security concerns, China seeks international space partnerships. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty raises questions about its ability to stop river water from flowing into Pakistan. The treaty, which survived past conflicts, allocates the eastern rivers to India and the western ones to Pakistan. India accuses Pakistan of supporting terrorism, prompting the suspension. Pakistan relies heavily on the Indus basin for agriculture and hydropower, and views stopping water flow as an “Act of War.” While India seeks to review the treaty, the suspension marks the first time either country has taken such a step, with India having a geographic advantage as the upstream nation. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
The funeral Mass for Pope Francis will be held on April 26, attended by 250 cardinals and numerous clergy. The coffin will be placed at the Basilica’s forecourt, facing a diverse crowd. The Mass, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, includes multilingual prayers and the Sistine Chapel Choir. Following the Mass, the coffin will be transported to Saint Mary Major, allowing Romans to bid farewell. The procession will conclude with a tribute from marginalized individuals, reflecting Pope Francis’ inclusive legacy. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 4:30 pm
The Vatican is finalizing details for Pope Francis’ funeral, emphasizing a simple ceremony per his wishes. To avoid diplomatic tensions, 170 international delegations will be seated alphabetically in French, preventing awkward proximities like Trump and Zelenskyy. Exceptions include Italy and Argentina, seated in the front row. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy seeks a meeting with Trump, though nothing is confirmed. EU leaders may hold talks post-ceremony. Argentina’s President Milei will attend despite past tensions with the Pope. Italy’s large delegation includes key political figures. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 1:00 pm
The Introductory Rites begin with the Entrance Antiphon, seeking eternal rest and light for the departed and acknowledging God’s power to forgive sins. The congregation is invited to acknowledge their sins in the Penitential Act, confessing faults and seeking intercession from Mary, the Angels, Saints, and each other. The priest asks for God’s mercy and forgiveness, leading to the Collect, where the community is invited to pray together. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 1:00 pm
A deadly attack on tourists in Indian-controlled Kashmir has heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to downgraded diplomatic and trade ties, border closures, and revoked visas. India blames Pakistan for the attack, which killed 26 mostly Indian tourists, though Pakistan denies involvement. A militant group, Kashmir Resistance, claimed responsibility. The conflict stems from both nations’ claims over Kashmir, a region with a history of rebellion against Indian rule. In response, India has taken punitive measures, including suspending a water-sharing treaty and revoking Pakistani visas. Ava Sinclair 25/04/2025 1:00 pm
Lt. Gen. Yaroslav Moskalik, a senior Russian military commander involved in planning operations, was killed in a car explosion in Balashikha, a Moscow suburb. The Russian Investigative Committee has launched a criminal inquiry. This incident is part of a series of fatalities among Ukraine’s opponents in Russia. Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy, was reportedly in Moscow for negotiations with President Putin, despite increasing Russian airstrikes on Ukrainian civilian targets. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 1:00 pm
Houthi rebels in Yemen have downed seven U.S. Reaper drones in under six weeks, costing over $200 million. This marks a significant loss for the Pentagon amid its campaign against the Iran-backed militants. Recently, three drones were shot down in a week, indicating improved targeting by the Houthis. The U.S. has intensified its attacks, launching daily strikes since March 15 under President Trump’s directive to use “overwhelming lethal force.” Over 800 Houthi targets have been hit, destroying key facilities and killing numerous fighters and leaders. Drone losses are under investigation. Penelope Kingsley 25/04/2025 9:30 am
Trump stated that the U.S. is having serious meetings with Iran, with military action as a potential option if no agreement is reached. His main concern is preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. While discussions continue, there are conflicting views within the U.S. administration about Iran’s enrichment capabilities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested Iran could use imported low-level enriched uranium for peaceful purposes. Meanwhile, Trump’s envoy’s travel plans for further talks remain uncertain. Noah Prescott 25/04/2025 9:30 am
