In Istanbul, a massive protest erupted over the arrest of Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a key opponent to President Erdogan. Organized by the opposition CHP, the rally aimed to transform public anger into a political movement against Erdogan’s long-standing rule. Tens of thousands attended, with claims of over 2 million. Protests spread across Turkey, even in Erdogan strongholds, but momentum waned after 1,900 arrests. Erdogan labeled the protests violent, warning of political and legal consequences. Imamoglu, accused of corruption, denies wrongdoing. Noah Prescott 30/03/2025 12:00 am
Rescue workers in Myanmar are tirelessly searching for survivors after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake killed at least 1,644 people and injured thousands. In Mandalay, a 30-year-old woman was rescued after 30 hours trapped. Over 90 people are feared trapped in the Sky Villa Condominium. In Bangkok, Thailand, efforts continue to find survivors at a collapsed construction site, with drones and sniffer dogs aiding the search. At least 10 people have died in Bangkok, with dozens missing. Myanmar’s junta reports 3,408 injured and many still missing. Noah Prescott 30/03/2025 12:00 am
A U.S. Navy dive team and Polish engineers have joined efforts to recover four missing U.S. soldiers in Lithuania after their M88A2 Hercules vehicle was found submerged under 15 feet of water, mud, and silt. Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor emphasized using all available resources to locate the soldiers. The operation involves removing water and mud, stabilizing the ground for heavy equipment, and preparing for dive operations. Officials acknowledge the recovery will be challenging and lengthy. Noah Prescott 30/03/2025 12:00 am
European leaders in Paris expressed determination to send peacekeepers to Ukraine, but plans are hindered by Russian actions. Dr. Ian Garner highlighted distrust in Russia as a negotiation obstacle. With the U.S. retreating, European countries, led by France and the U.K., plan a “reassurance force” to uphold a ceasefire. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a peace deal, criticizing Russia for delaying tactics. French President Macron stressed the force’s role in deterring further Russian aggression. Ava Sinclair 30/03/2025 12:00 am
The remote town of Julia Creek in Queensland, Australia, is offering a salary of up to AU$680,000 ($428,000) to attract a new doctor, as its only doctor is leaving. The town, with a population of 500, also offers free rent and a car. Despite the high pay, challenges include its remoteness, with the nearest major city, Townsville, a seven-hour drive away, and Brisbane over 17 hours away. The outgoing doctor, Dr. Adam Louws, highlights the opportunity for a quieter life and unique skill development. Julia Creek is known for its vast landscapes and community spirit. Penelope Kingsley 29/03/2025 8:30 pm
Hundreds of thousands protested in Istanbul supporting jailed mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a key rival to President Erdogan. Arrested on corruption charges, Imamoglu claims political motivation. Held in solitary confinement, he communicated via a letter and AI-generated video, expressing unity against oppression. His wife, Dilek, vowed continued resistance. Demonstrators, waving flags and chanting for justice, gathered in massive numbers. Imamoglu, Istanbul’s mayor since 2019, is seen as a significant challenger to Erdogan’s ruling party. Protests have surged since his arrest. Penelope Kingsley 29/03/2025 8:30 pm
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has resulted in 1,644 deaths, with thousands injured and missing. The main resistance movement announced a partial ceasefire to aid relief efforts. The quake, followed by aftershocks, also affected Thailand, killing 10. Countries like Malaysia, Russia, and China have sent rescue teams. Myanmar’s shadow National Unity Government declared a two-week pause in military operations to support relief, collaborating with the U.N. and NGOs for security and aid in affected areas. The U.N. has issued an initial situation report on the relief efforts. Noah Prescott 29/03/2025 8:30 pm
Pope Francis appeared frail on a hospital balcony, struggling with limited arm mobility and breathlessness due to a complex respiratory condition. Hospitalized on February 14 for bronchitis, which developed into double pneumonia and a polymicrobial infection, his condition was critical. Despite initial doubts about his survival, he consented to a risky treatment. Now recovering, his voice is strengthening, and he’s undergoing therapy. Francis humorously claimed a youthful mentality during a recent visit. Ava Sinclair 29/03/2025 8:30 pm
Eid al-Fitr is a significant Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is celebrated with joy and excitement, featuring congregational prayers, family visits, gatherings, outings, and new clothes. The holiday is a time for Muslims worldwide to come together in celebration and reflection after a month of fasting and spiritual devotion. Noah Prescott 29/03/2025 8:30 pm
A remote town in the Australian outback, Julia Creek, is seeking a senior medical officer, offering a salary up to 680,277 AUD, rent-free accommodation, and a car allowance. The role involves being the sole doctor for a community of 550 people, providing clinical care in various settings. Despite perks like no traffic jams, the town is isolated, with the nearest major city, Brisbane, a 19-hour drive away. The position also includes over three weeks of professional-development leave. Ava Sinclair 29/03/2025 5:00 pm
