Elizabeth Olsen, Richard Gere, and Penélope Cruz, among over 680 Academy members, signed a letter condemning the assault and detention of Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal by Israeli settlers and forces. The letter criticizes the Academy’s tepid response, highlighting the risks filmmakers face and calling the attack an affront to storytelling. Ballal, an Oscar-winning director, was detained in Susiya, sparking calls for stronger Academy support. The Academy’s statement, lacking direct reference to Ballal, was criticized for its weak stance compared to its response to Iranian filmmakers’ arrests. Penelope Kingsley 29/03/2025 3:00 am
In Gaza City, during Ramadan, young men wake residents for pre-dawn meals amid the sounds of Israeli airstrikes. The conflict resumed in early March after a brief ceasefire, with Israel aiming to pressure Hamas for hostage release. Nearly 1,000 people, including many children, have died, and evacuations are underway. The blockade has led to severe food shortages, exacerbating the struggle during the holy month. As Ramadan ends, hope for peace is dim, with residents like Issam Zakkout uncertain about fleeing. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 11:31 pm
Confidential military documents were found scattered in Newcastle, England, by football fan Mike Gibbard on March 16. The papers contained sensitive information about British Army regiments, including details on Catterick Garrison’s perimeter, patrols, and personnel. Gibbard reported the find to the police, who were initially skeptical. Experts warn the leak poses a security threat. The Ministry of Defence acknowledged the incident but has not contacted Gibbard, leading him to feel the issue is being downplayed. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 11:31 pm
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda expressed hope for a “miracle” during a rescue operation for four missing U.S. Army soldiers in Pabrade. The soldiers, from the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, disappeared during a maintenance mission. Their M88 Hercules recovery vehicle was found submerged 15 feet underwater in a marshy area. Search teams used heavy equipment to clear silt from the site. Despite challenging conditions, Nauseda remains optimistic about the soldiers’ recovery. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 8:00 pm
The Israeli military struck southern Beirut, targeting a Hezbollah site, after projectiles were fired from Lebanon. The IDF accused Hezbollah of using civilians as shields and issued evacuation orders to residents. Schools were closed following the order. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, convened for a security assessment. Despite Hezbollah denying involvement, tensions have risen, testing the ceasefire established four months ago after significant violence. Noah Prescott 28/03/2025 8:00 pm
The Academy’s board is meeting to address criticism over its weak response to the assault and detention of Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal by Israeli authorities. A new statement, signed by over 600 Academy members, including prominent actors and directors, condemns the Academy’s leadership for their inadequate reaction. The letter demands a stronger stance against Ballal’s treatment, emphasizing the importance of supporting filmmakers who face risks. The Academy’s initial response failed to mention Ballal or his film, prompting backlash from the film community. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 8:00 pm
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, with the epicenter near Sagaing. Tremors were felt in China and Thailand, where an unfinished building collapsed in Bangkok, leaving 70 workers missing. Mandalay reported significant damage and hundreds of casualties. A state of emergency was declared in six regions. A second 6.4 magnitude quake followed. Residents in Yangon and Bangkok expressed concern over potential aftershocks. Ava Sinclair 28/03/2025 8:00 pm
French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for a European “reassurance force” to be deployed to Ukraine if a lasting peace deal is reached. This initiative, supported by Britain, aims to provide security guarantees amid concerns over a US-brokered peace deal that might favor Russia. European leaders, including Macron, rejected easing sanctions on Russia, maintaining pressure due to ongoing aggression. The plan involves British and French defense officials assessing Ukraine’s security needs, though not all European allies will participate due to capacity or political reasons. Ava Sinclair 28/03/2025 4:30 pm
Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned against dismissing U.S. President Donald Trump’s interest in Greenland, highlighting America’s historical interest in the territory. Speaking in Murmansk, Putin noted that the U.S. has had plans for Greenland since the 1860s and attempted to purchase it post-World War II. He emphasized that the U.S. will continue pursuing its strategic interests in the Arctic. Putin’s remarks were not critical of Trump’s intentions, framing the issue as a matter between the U.S. and Denmark. Ava Sinclair 28/03/2025 4:30 pm
The search for four U.S. Army soldiers missing during a training exercise in Lithuania has shifted to a recovery mission. Their M88 Hercules vehicle was found submerged in a swamp, possibly 5 meters deep. Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene reported challenging conditions with muddy water and sludge. Hundreds, including American forces and local services, are involved in the recovery effort, using helicopters, divers, and excavation machines. Despite narrowing the location, the operation remains complicated. Penelope Kingsley 28/03/2025 4:30 pm
