Suspected U.S. airstrikes hit Yemen’s rebel-held capital, Sanaa, killing at least one person and wounding four, according to the Iranian-backed Houthis. The strikes, part of a new American campaign under President Trump, appear more extensive than those under Biden, targeting ranking personnel and city sites. This escalation follows Houthi threats to target “Israeli” ships over aid blockades. The Houthis have previously attacked over 100 merchant vessels and American warships, raising their profile amid Yemen’s ongoing conflict. Penelope Kingsley 31/03/2025 7:30 am
The IFRC expressed outrage over the deaths of eight medics killed in Rafah, Gaza. The ambulance team was attacked on March 23, and their bodies were retrieved after a week. One medic remains missing. The PRCS found the bodies alongside six Hamas civil defense members and a UN employee. Hamas blamed the Israel Defense Forces, but no confirmation was provided. IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain emphasized the medics’ humanitarian role and the violation of conflict zone rules. Penelope Kingsley 31/03/2025 4:00 am
Pope Francis, recovering at home, urged Christians to embrace Lent as a time of healing and faith, reflecting on God’s mercy. He emphasized unity and healing during the Jubilee Year of Hope, sharing his personal experience of frailty. The Pope thanked those embodying Christ’s healing and called for peace in conflict zones like Ukraine, South Sudan, and Sudan. He praised the Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan border agreement as a diplomatic success and concluded with a prayer for global reconciliation, invoking the Blessed Virgin Mary’s intercession. Noah Prescott 31/03/2025 4:00 am
U.S. Navy divers have attached two lines to a sinking M88 Hercules armored recovery vehicle in Lithuania, which was carrying four missing U.S. Army soldiers from Fort Stewart, Georgia. The vehicle was on a maintenance mission when it disappeared. With both lines attached, the vehicle can be anchored to prevent further sinking. The winching process, expected to be lengthy due to challenging terrain, will begin soon. Lithuanian and Polish troops are assisting in the search and recovery efforts. Noah Prescott 31/03/2025 4:00 am
Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza killed 10 people, including children, on the first day of Eid-al-Fitr, amid intensified military actions. Twenty others were injured, with the death toll expected to rise. The strikes targeted a tent and home for displaced people. Video footage showed child victims in new Eid clothing, highlighting the tragedy. Palestinians in Gaza face dwindling aid and rising costs, affecting traditional Eid celebrations. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claims pressure on Hamas is effective, while Palestinians struggle with high prices and limited resources. Penelope Kingsley 31/03/2025 4:00 am
Turkey’s anti-government protests are intensifying, with opposition leader Özgür Özel urging weekly rallies and an economic boycott against pro-ErdoÄŸan companies like the DoÄŸuÅŸ Group. The protests, sparked by the detention of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Ä°mamoÄŸlu, have grown to demand broader democratic reforms and the release of Kurdish leader Selahattin DemirtaÅŸ. The movement, involving various political parties and student groups, also addresses economic issues and judicial independence. Despite the CHP’s leadership, the protests face a crossroads as they expand beyond initial grievances. Penelope Kingsley 31/03/2025 12:30 am
A German start-up, Isar Aerospace, launched an orbital rocket from Norway’s Andoya Spaceport, marking the first such attempt from European soil. Despite crashing into the sea 30 seconds after lift-off, the company deemed the test a success, emphasizing data collection. CEO Daniel Metzler highlighted the achievement of designing, building, and launching rockets, aiming to meet global satellite launch demands. The Spectrum rocket, capable of carrying 700-1,000 kg, represents Europe’s step towards competing with SpaceX and Blue Origin. The launch was seen as a significant milestone for German space travel. Penelope Kingsley 31/03/2025 12:30 am
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar, killing over 1,600 people and injuring 3,408. Local residents, hindered by damaged infrastructure and civil war, are manually searching for survivors amid aftershocks and extreme heat. Relief efforts face challenges due to buckled roads, downed bridges, and limited communication. Many remain homeless, and hospitals struggle with medical supply shortages. International search and rescue teams are arriving, but many areas remain unreached. Damaged airports have halted commercial flights, complicating aid delivery. Penelope Kingsley 30/03/2025 9:00 pm
Isar Aerospace launched its Spectrum rocket from Norway, achieving a successful first test flight despite crashing into the sea after 30 seconds. The 28-meter rocket, designed for small and medium satellite deployment, provided valuable flight data. The launch followed weather-related delays, and the company considered the 30-second flight a success, validating their Flight Termination System. Isar Aerospace operates independently from the European Space Agency. Penelope Kingsley 30/03/2025 9:00 pm
Marine Le Pen faces a critical court ruling that could bar her from the 2027 French presidential election. The verdict concerns a party-funding trial where Le Pen and others are accused of misusing EU funds. The prosecutor recommended a fine, prison, and a five-year ban from public office, effective immediately, even if she appeals. This decision could impact her political future, as she’s a leading candidate. Critics warn of potential democratic implications if the judiciary is perceived as influencing electoral choices. Le Pen remains outwardly calm but acknowledges the stakes. Noah Prescott 30/03/2025 9:00 pm
