Daily News Brief

*) Top UN court to rule in Germany 'genocide' case over Gaza The United Nations' top court will rule on charges by Nicaragua that Germany if facilitating genocide in Gaza by supplying arms to Israel. Nicaragua initiated proceedings against Germany at the International Court of Justice, accusing Berlin of breaching the 1948 Genocide Convention. At a hearing earlier this month, Nicaragua requested the court issue emergency measures for Germany to stop its arms exports to Israel. *) Living conditions worsen in Gaza's Rafah amid rising heat, trash piles Meanwhile, garbage piles up and the heat rises in war-torn Gaza as life becomes even more grim for displaced Palestinians living in tents. Last week, temperatures already topped 30°C, turning the makeshift shelters made from plastic tarps and sheets into sweltering ovens. Rafah hosts about 1.5 million displaced, more than half of Gaza's population which has been besieged and bombarded by Israel for nearly seven months. *) Security deal ready for Saudi if it normalises ties with Israel: Blinken The United States is nearly ready with a security package to offer Saudi Arabia if it normalises relations with Israel, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said. Blinken was visiting the kingdom on his seventh trip to the region since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which has then launched a relentless offensive in Gaza. President Joe Biden's administration, while supporting Israel, has sought moderation from its government by dangling the prospect of formal relations with Saudi Arabia. *) Scores of people dead in western Kenya after dam collapses At least 42 people have died when a dam burst its banks near a town in Kenya's Rift Valley, as heavy rains and floods battered the country. The dam bust in Nakuru county, washing away houses and cutting off a road, with rescuers digging through debris to find survivors. Monday's dam collapse raises the total death toll over the March-May wet season to 120 as heavier than usual rainfall pounds East Africa. *) Scotland's first minister Yousaf steps down after a year Humza Yousaf has announced his resignation as Scotland's first minister, before he was due to face two confidence votes this week. The 39-year-old quit following a turbulent year as head of the devolved administration, during which support for his pro-independence Scottish National Party has fallen. Yousaf had been facing growing calls to resign since unceremoniously ending the party’s power-sharing deal with the Scottish Greens in the Scottish parliament.

*) Israel kills over a dozen Palestinians in Rafah — medics Israeli air strikes have targeted three houses in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, killing at least 13 people and wounding numerous others, according to medics. Additionally, Israeli planes struck two houses in Gaza City in the north of the enclave, which health officials say resulted in several casualties. These strikes occurred amid ongoing Israeli violence and tension, with over a million people in Rafah seeking shelter from previous bombardments. *) World Central Kitchen to resume Gaza ops after Israel killings World Central Kitchen has resumed operations in Gaza after seven of its aid workers were killed in an Israeli strike earlier this month. In a statement, the charity's chief executive officer emphasised the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and their commitment to providing food assistance with renewed energy and focus. The organisation plans to deliver food to as many Palestinians as possible, including in the northern region, by utilising various transport methods: land, air, or sea routes. *) Heat wave kills two Palestinian children in Gaza The UN refugee agency UNRWA has reported that at least two Palestinian children have lost their lives due to a severe heat wave in Gaza. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini expressed deep concern, highlighting the challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza: death, hunger, disease, displacement, and now extreme heat conditions. This situation compounds the ongoing difficulties caused by a deadly Israeli offensive that killed more than 34,400 people and injured thousands. *) Ukraine signals worsening front amidst Russia's new gains Ukraine's army leader has acknowledged a deteriorating situation on the battlefield as Russian forces seized another village in eastern Ukraine. In a Facebook post, Oleksandr Syrsky admitted that Ukrainian troops had retreated westwards to establish new defensive lines along the front near Donetsk. He noted that Russia holds a significant advantage in manpower and ammunition, allowing them to make advances despite heavy fighting. *) Palestinian writer wins Arabic Fiction Prize after 20 years in Israeli jail Palestinian writer Basim Khandaqji, who was imprisoned in Israel 20 years ago, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 International Prize for Arabic Fiction. He won for his novel "A Mask, the Colour of the Sky” at a ceremony held in Abu Dhabi. Khandaqji was born in Nablus in the Israeli-occupied West Bank in 1983 and began writing short stories until his arrest at the age of 21.

*) Bodies found in Gaza mass graves suggest 'organ theft' by Israel Paramedics and rescue teams involved in retrieving civilian bodies from the mass graves discovered at the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis have reported organ theft by Israeli military and claimed some Gaza victims were buried alive in the recently discovered graves. At least 392 bodies, including 165 unidentified individuals, were unearthed from three mass graves following the withdrawal of Israeli military from Khan Younis. Rights groups expressed concerns over the discoveries around Nasser Hospital where a mutilated body of a young girl in a surgical gown was found, suggesting she may have been buried alive, alongside another victim similarly attired. *) China warns US of 'downward spiral' in ties during Blinken visit China has urged US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to address rising disagreements or risk a "downward spiral" between the two powers as talks opened in Beijing. Blinken, paying his second visit to the rival country in less than a year, voiced hope for progress but said he would directly raise areas of difference, which are expected to include Russia, Taiwan and trade. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, receiving Blinken said relations between the world's two largest economies were "beginning to stabilise" after leaders Joe Biden and Xi Jinping met at a November summit. *) WCK founder voices frustration over Israel's explanation for killing staff The seven World Central Kitchen aid workers killed by Israeli air strikes represented the "best of humanity" who risked everything "to feed people they did not know and will never meet," Jose Andres, the celebrity chef who founded the organisation, told mourners who gathered in the US capital to honour the dead. Speaking at Washington National Cathedral, Andres said the official [Israeli] explanation of their killing is not good enough, and there was no excuse for it. "I know we all have many unanswered questions about what happened and why," Andres told mourners, demanding an investigation. *) Students in France join pro-Palestine rally, mirroring US campus protests Students in Paris have protested again after police broke up a pro-Palestine solidarity demonstration the night before at one of France's most prestigious universities. Students at Sciences Po [Paris Institute of Political Studies] accused management of calling in police to break up a pro-Palestinian protest by dozens of students gathered on a central Paris campus on Wednesday night. "The director has crossed a red line by deciding to send in the police," Ines Fontenelle, a member of the Student Union at Sciences Po, said as 150 students gathered again. *) Philippines blocks 'genetically modified rice' production over safety fears A Philippine court has blocked the commercial propagation of genetically modified golden rice after it was found unsafe for health and the environment. Philippines was the first country to approve golden rice, enriched with Vitamin A to combat childhood blindness. However, the Court in Manila revoked a biosafety permit for commercial rice production after opponents filed a challenge.

*) Ben-Gvir evacuated from building besieged by Israeli protesters Israeli police evacuated extremist minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from a building in the occupied West Jerusalem that was surrounded by protesters, including families of hostages in besieged Gaza. Local media reported that hundreds of Israeli protesters gathered in the area near the building with Ben-Gvir inside. The police evacuated the notorious minister from the scene after its officers secured him. *) American-Israeli hostage says Israel killed 70 captives in Gaza strikes Palestinian resistance group Hamas has released a video of an Israeli-American man who was among the soldiers and civilians captured by the fighters on October 7. The video shows Hersh Goldberg-Polin calling on PM Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right government to do more to secure the captives' release. In the video, he also accused the Netanyahu government of abandoning the people who are being held in Gaza by Hamas.. *) Tense stand-offs continue as Gaza war protests spread at US campuses Columbia University has said it was making "important progress" with pro-Palestinian student protesters who set up a tent encampment and was extending a deadline to clear out. Student anti war protests spread across US universities as demonstrators demanded that their institutions condemn Israel’s war on the besieged Gaza and divest from Israeli firms in response. *) US military aid for Taiwan increases conflict risk — China China has warned that US military support for Taiwan only increased the "risk of conflict" along the strait after the US Congress allocated $8 billion in military support for the island. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman has said that the United States and Taiwan strengthening military ties will not bring about security for Taiwan but will only increase tensions and the risk of conflict across the Taiwan Strait. *) Fury as Malala teams up with pro-war Hillary Clinton Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai is facing a backlash after the premier of a Broadway musical she co-produced with former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The musical, titled "Suffs" and playing in New York since last week, depicts the American women's suffrage campaign for the right to vote in the 20th century. Yousafzai, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, has been condemned by various quarters for partnering with Clinton, an outspoken supporter of Israel's invasion of Gaza.

*) UN raises 'war crime' alert as 300+ bodies are found in Gaza mass graves Reports of mass graves found in Gaza over the weekend at Nasser Hospital and Al Shifa Hospital have prompted renewed concerns about possible war crimes by Israel. Some of the Palestinian victims were found stripped naked with their hands tied, according to the UN. UN rights chief Volker Turk said "the intentional killing of civilians, detainees, and others who are hors de combat is a war crime.” *) US Senate overwhelmingly passes $26.6B military aid for Israel Meanwhile, the US Senate has passed a $26.6 billion military package for Israel, the American ally accused of carrying out genocide in Gaza using US weapons. US President Joe Biden pledged to quickly sign the $61 billion bill — which also includes aid packages for Ukraine and Taiwan — after Congress gave its final approval. Israel's war on Gaza, now in its 201st day, has killed at least 34,183 Palestinians — 70 percent of them children and women. *) Malaysian navy helicopters collide, killing all crew aboard Two Malaysian navy helicopters have collided in mid-air during a rehearsal for a naval parade, killing all 10 crew members aboard. The incident occurred at the Lumut naval base in the western state of Perak on Tuesday morning, the navy said. All victims were confirmed dead at the scene and sent to the military hospital for identification, the navy said. *) North Korea officials embark on rare public visit to Iran A North Korean delegation is visiting Iran, the North's official media has said in a rare public report of an exchange between the two countries believed to have secret military ties. The minister for external economic relations, Yun Jong-ho, left Pyongyang on Tuesday by air leading a ministry delegation to visit Iran, the North's KCNA news agency said. It gave no other detail. *) Human rights groups slam UK Rwanda plan after Parliament approves bill The UK’s plans to send some asylum-seekers to Rwanda has been swiftly condemned by international humanitarian organisations. This comes after Parliament approved legislation allowing the deportation flights to begin later this year. Both the UN refugee agency and the Council of Europe called for the UK to rethink its plans because of concerns that the legislation undermines human rights protections.

*) Israel's claims against UNRWA lack evidence: UN review Israel has yet to provide any proof of its allegation that some UN agency staff are members of Palestine's resistance groups. This is according to an independent review of the neutrality of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). The review was led by former French foreign minister Catherine Colonna to respond to Israeli allegations that some UNRWA staff took part in Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel. *) Pro-Palestine protests spread across US universities Meanwhile, classes at Columbia University have been shifted online as protests over Israel’s carnage in besieged Gaza heightened tensions across US campuses. A large group of demonstrators had established a "Gaza Solidarity Encampment" on lawns at Columbia. Protests also spread to other campuses, including MIT, New York University and Yale, where at least 47 people had been arrested after refusing requests to disperse. *) Outrage as India's Modi, in quest for votes, calls Muslims 'infiltrators' India's main opposition party has filed a complaint against Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi for "blatantly targeting" minority Muslims in a campaign speech calling them “infiltrators”. The complaint, filed to the country's Election Commission, said Modi’s comments were "divisive,” “malicious" and targeted Muslims in India. The comments were "far worse than any ever made by a sitting Prime Minister in the history of India", it said. *) UK Parliament passes Rwanda deportation plan for asylum-seekers The UK government’s plan to deport migrants and asylum seekers to Rwanda has been cleared by Parliament after a marathon tussle. Members of the upper house repeatedly sent back the plans with amendments to MPs in the lower chamber but eventually agreed to make no further changes, ensuring the bill would now become law. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak vowed to begin sending asylum seekers to Rwanda within 10 to 12 weeks. *) Militants take 110 civilians hostage in central Mali Suspected militants in central Mali are holding more than 110 civilians they abducted six days ago. Three buses carrying the civilians were stopped by "militants", who forced the vehicles and the passengers to head towards a forest. Mali has since 2012 been ravaged by different factions affiliated with Al Qaeda and Daesh, as well as by self-declared, self-defence forces and bandits.

*) Scores of bodies found in two mass graves at hospital in Gaza’s Khan Younis Palestinians have exhumed scores of bodies from two mass graves at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis city in southern Gaza, according to officials. The director-general of Gaza’s government media office said “some 150 bodies have been found in the two graves.” He said around 700 people are still unaccounted for since the Israeli withdrawal from Khan Younis on April 7th following a four-month ground offensive. *) Baby in Gaza saved from womb of mother killed in Israeli strike A baby girl has been delivered from the womb of a Palestinian killed along with her husband and daughter by an Israeli attack in the Gaza city of Rafah. The baby was delivered in an emergency C-section. Her mother, Sabreen Al Sakani, had been 30 weeks pregnant. At least 19 people were killed in the overnight Israeli strikes, including 13 children from one family, Palestinian health officials said. *) US House passes aid to Ukraine, Israel and other allies The US House of Representatives has passed a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other US allies overseas. House Speaker Mike Johnson had unveiled a plan to hold votes on four separate foreign aid bills and later combine them into a package, a move that angered some far-right House Republicans. In addition, the House voted in favour of a bill to effectively ban TikTok in the US – if it is not bought by a US company – with a vote of 360-58. *) Pro-China leader's party wins Maldives vote Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's party has won control of parliament in an election landslide, results showed. Muizzu's People's National Congress (PNC) secured more than two thirds in the 93-member parliament, according to provisional results from election officials. The win indicates voters backed his tilt towards China and away from regional powerhouse and traditional benefactor India. *) Ecuadorians vote in favour of referendum to extradite mafia bosses A solid majority of Ecuadorian voters have approved a referendum paving the way for the extradition of organised crime bosses. Some 65 percent of valid votes were marked "yes" on the matter of extradition, and 35 percent marked "no," according to electoral authorities. President Daniel Noboa hailed the result as Ecuador continues to grapple with a shocking rise in violence, flaring up due to a rise in narcotics trafficking.

*) Iran fires air defence batteries as Israel reportedly strikes Isfahan Iran has activated its air defence system over several cities after its semi-official Fars news agency reported explosions at the central Isfahan airport. Spokesman for Iran's civilian space programme Hossein Dalirian said that several small "quadcopter" drones had been shot down following what a senior US official told ABC News were Israeli missile strikes. *) NY police arrest Columbia University students protesting Israel's Gaza war NYC police said they arrested several students from Columbia University for protesting Israel’s war on Gaza as they rallied in support of Palestine. Students had been protesting on campus since last Wednesday, demanding the school divest from companies they claim "profit from Israeli apartheid" and Israeli military actions in besieged Gaza. Following the arrests, students from Columbia and Barnard College have been suspended from school, including US Representative Ilhan Omar’s daughter. *) Türkiye urges decisive international action against Israel's war on Gaza Türkiye's Deputy Foreign Minister and UN representative Ahmet Yildiz has called for decisive international action to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza. After condemning Israel's actions in Palestine's Gaza, Yildiz said, “the UN Charter, the bedrock of international law, is still routinely breached.” He said that no country is immune from its obligations to international law and questioned the lack of action by the UNSC in response to Israel's "brazen violations.” *) Pakistan police thwart suicide bombing targeting Japanese nationals Pakistan police shot down a suicide bomber and a militant during an attempted attack on a vehicle carrying five Japanese nationals. The police spokesperson, Abrar Hussain Baloch, said the Japanese survivors have been moved to a safe place in police custody. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attempted attack from any militant group. *) India begins voting in the world's largest election as Modi seeks third term Over 970 million voters head to the polls in India to elect 543 members for the lower house of Parliament for a five-year term. The six-week election period began today and will run until June 1, with votes being counted on June 4. India’s Hindu-nationalist prime minister Narendra Modi will test the limits of his political dominance as he seeks a third term as the country's leader.

*) Qatar re-evaluating its role as mediator in Gaza ceasefire negotiations Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said his country is re-evaluating its role as a mediator between Israel and Hamas on reaching a ceasefire in Gaza and will take an “appropriate decision”. Al Thani’s remarks came during a press conference held in Doha with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan. He said consultations were held with Türkiye’s foreign minister and they agreed on “the necessity for all parties to resort to de-escalation, dialogue and resolving issues in the region logically, not through weapons and violence.” *) Israeli attack could spark regional war — Jordan Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said an Israeli retaliation against Iranian strikes could bring a real risk of dragging the whole region into a devastating war. In an interview released by state media, Safadi said his country was lobbying major powers against an escalation that would have far-reaching consequences for regional stability and security. Safadi said, "The risks are enormous. That could drag the whole region into war, which would be devastating to us in the region and we’ll have very, very serious implications for the rest of the world including the US." *) Russian missile barrage on Ukraine city kills 18 Rescuers were removing mountains of rubble from the site of a lethal Russian missile strike on Ukraine's historic city of Chernigiv, where at least 18 people were killed in an attack that has prompted fresh pleas for allies to boost Kiev's overstretched air defence systems. Three Russian missiles hit the northern Ukrainian city, causing casualties and prompting rescue efforts to find survivors and assist the wounded. *) Columbia university president pushes back over allegations of anti-Semitism Four months after a heated hearing in Congress caused two Ivy League presidents to step down, Columbia University's president faced the same committee. Columbia President Nemat Shafik strongly condemned anti-Semitism at her campus, rejecting accusations that she's allowed Columbia to become a centre of hate. The Columbia university president said the school suspended 15 students and took disciplinary action against several faculty members. And finally… *) Thousands evacuated as Indonesia volcano erupts Indonesian rescuers raced to evacuate thousands of people after a volcano erupted five times, forcing authorities to close a nearby airport and issue a warning about falling debris that could cause a tsunami. The volcano in Indonesia's outermost region was still billowing a column of smoke, prompting authorities to shut the nearest international airport in Manado city on Sulawesi island for 24 hours.

*) Israeli aggression in Gaza signals failure of army — Hamas The Palestinian group Hamas said that the madness directed against Palestinian civilians in Gaza reflects the failure of the Israeli army. Hamas leader Izzat al Rishq said in a statement, "The Nazism of the occupation army was revealed in some images at Al Shifa Medical Complex in Gaza City, where the worst massacre against the health sector in the world was committed'' and that "the Zionist madness against civilians signals the complete failure of the occupation army in front of the resistance and is a reflection of Zionist terror from larger developments.’' *) Türkiye-Iraq relations to shift positively after upcoming visit: Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has emphasised that relations between Türkiye and Iraq will be grounded on a different basis ahead of his upcoming visit to Baghdad. Erdogan said "The Iraqi side attaches great importance to this visit," further highlighting the significance of enhancing relations with Iraq during the briefing held with press members in Ankara. The Turkish president underscored the water issue as a key agenda item, noting that Iraq has raised concerns and requests regarding water resources. *) Outrage as US university cancels Muslim valedictorian's commencement speech A top US university has cancelled its plans for a graduation speech by a meritorious Muslim student after pro-Israel groups criticised her selection and the varsity reportedly received threats by email, phone and letter. The decision announced by the University of Southern California is the latest controversy to roil American higher education since Israel's war on Gaza began in October last year. Asna Tabassum, who has been attacked online for being "anti-Zionist", had been selected as class valedictorian — an honorary role whose holder traditionally gives a speech in front of up to 65,000 people. *) Dubai airport diverts flights amid widespread flooding in UAE, Oman Dubai's major international airport diverted scores of incoming flights as heavy rains lashed the United Arab Emirates, causing widespread flooding around the desert country. The world's busiest air hub for international passengers confirmed a halt to arrivals before announcing a "gradual resumption". And finally… *) X blocks India election posts after takedown orders Social media platform X blocked several posts in India containing political speech after authorities ordered their takedown ahead of the general election that starts Friday. X, formerly known as Twitter, said the posts would be withheld from Indian audiences until the election was over despite its disagreement with the order. The posts by elected politicians, political parties and candidates made unverified claims about the private lives of their opponents, which India's election commission said violated its code of conduct.

*) Mass grave found at Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza Al Jazeera Arabic has reported that a mass grave at Al Shifa Hospital was discovered by the Palestinian Health Ministry and Civil Defence Forces in Gaza. The extracted bodies had not fully decomposed, suggesting that the 'executions' took place recently, possibly during Israel’s two-week military invasion. The Gaza Emergency Operations Centre Director Motasem Salah said the World Health Organization and OCHA are trying "to identify the decomposed bodies and the body parts that were crushed" from their wallets and documents. *) Israeli war cabinet divided over response to Iran attack Following Iran's retaliatory strike against Israel on Saturday, Israel’s Channel 12 reported that “There is consensus on the necessity of responding to the Iranian attack, but disagreements revolve around the scale and timing of the response.” The broadcaster noted that some in the war cabinet advocate for an immediate 'eye for an eye' approach, while others emphasise the importance of strategic planning for a robust response. *) What unfolded on Day 1 of Donald Trump's historic hush money trial Donald Trump has entered history as the first American president to stand trial on criminal charges. The Republican presidential candidate for the upcoming elections faces charges of falsifying business records to conceal "hush money" payments at the height of the 2016 presidential election. Trump is expected to be in court 4 days a week during the trial, which could last 6 to 8 weeks, including presentations by the parties and witness hearings. *) Crimes against Muslims in Germany have more than doubled in 2023 The German Press Agency DPA reported that the number of crimes against Muslims in Germany has more than doubled last year. According to the DPA, almost 1,500 Islamophobic crimes took place across Germany in 2023, compared to 610 hate crime incidents in 2022. The dramatic surge in anti-Muslim hate crimes could be linked to the Israeli war on Gaza, according to the report. *) Türkiye's tourism booms as millions of visitors flocking in early 2024 Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism stated that over 4.3 million tourists visited the country in the first two months of 2024. According to entry/exit statistics, the number of foreign visitors to Türkiye in the first two months increased by 12 percent compared to the same period last year. Most foreign visitors came to Türkiye from Iran, Bulgaria, and Russia.

*) US rules out joining any Israeli attack against Iran The United States has said it will not join any Israeli attack on Iran, with US President Joe Biden warning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to "think carefully" about any escalation. The White House said Biden did not want a wider war after helping key ally Israel repel an aerial attack by Tehran — itself in retaliation for a presumed Israeli strike that killed an Iranian general in Damascus. *) Israeli war cabinet divided over response to Iran attack Disagreements have arisen among members of Israel’s war cabinet over the scale and timing of an attack on Iran. Israel’s Channel 12 reported that while there is consensus on the necessity of responding to the Iranian attack, the Israeli war cabinet differs on whether to strike Iran at a larger scale or to keep the attack confined to a small area. Earlier on Sunday, the Israeli public broadcaster KAN said the response to the Iranian attack “was canceled at the last minute” after a phone call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden. *) Russia aims to capture Chasiv Yar by May 9 Ukraine's top commander has said Russian forces aimed to capture the town of Chasiv Yar by May 9, setting the stage for an important battle for control of high ground in the east where Russia is focusing its assaults. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskiy, who warned this weekend that the situation in the east had deteriorated, said Russia was focusing its efforts west of Bakhmut to try to capture Chasiv Yar before moving towards the city of Kramatorsk. Kiev's brigades were holding back the assaults in the Donetsk region for now and had been reinforced with ammunition, drones and electronic warfare devices, he said in a statement on the Telegram messenger. General Oleksandr Syrskiy said "the threat remains relevant, taking into account the fact that the higher Russian military leadership has set its troops the task of capturing Chasiv Yar by May 9". *) Britain’s 1st migrant deportation flights to Rwanda to take off 'within weeks' Britain’s health secretary said that the first flights carrying migrants to Rwanda will take off "within weeks" while not disclosing whether the government had found a carrier. Victoria Atkins said they want flights carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda from Britain to take off "as quickly as possible." Asked whether the government has found an airline to carry out the flights amid reports that Rwanda's airline would not do so, she replied: "The Home Office is working on this and is ready to go." *) Türkiye's Fenerbahce win back-to-back EuroLeague Women titles in basketball Turkish basketball club Fenerbahce Alagoz Holding defended their FIBA EuroLeague Women crown with a 106-73 win against French opponent Villeneuve d'Ascq LM on Sunday. US small forward Napheesa Collier scored 33 points for Fenerbahce’s women's team to be the highest scorer of the 2024 final held in Mersin, Türkiye. Collier, Emma Meesseman and Kayla McBride combined for 72 points for the Istanbul giants as Fenerbahce became the first Turkish club to win the EuroLeague Women title twice.

US curbs diplomats' movements in Israel over Iran ultimatum The United States has issued a security alert to its diplomats in Israel, asking them to cut down their daily outdoor activities. The American embassy in Jerusalem cited concerns of Iranian retaliation over an Israeli strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus earlier in April that left seven Iranian military officials dead. An embassy notice said, "Out of an abundance of caution, US government employees and their family members are restricted from personal travel" outside the Tel Aviv, West Jerusalem and Be'er Sheva areas until further notice. No Security Council 'consensus' on Palestinian UN membership: presidency Members of the UN Security Council failed to reach a consensus on a bid by Palestinians for full UN membership. Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the council's rotating presidency for April, confirmed that the deadlock continued during a closed-door meeting. Israelis protest against Netanyahu in Tel Aviv Protesters have again taken to the streets in Tel Aviv to demonstrate against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government and call for the release of dozens of captives held in Gaza. Demonstrators carried large photos of captives as well as signs with slogans, some in English and some in Hebrew. US House speaker negotiating Ukraine aid with White House House Speaker Mike Johnson is negotiating with the White House as he prepares for the treacherous task of advancing wartime funding for Ukraine and Israel through the House, a top House Republican said. House Republican Leader Steve Scalise told reporters that Johnson had been talking with White House officials about a package that would deviate from the Senate's $95 billion foreign security package and include several Republican demands. Japan calls for law-abiding fix to handling of frozen Russian assets Japan's finance minister Shunichi Suzuki said that any handling of frozen Russian assets must abide by international law. He added that the topic will likely be discussed at next week's meeting of his counterparts from G7 advanced economies. The EU and the Group of Seven nations (G7) froze some 300 billion euros of Russian central bank assets following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. The EU and G7 have been debating if and how these funds can be used for over a year. China, Türkiye must dissuade Iran from retaliating against Israel — Blinken US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged his Turkish, Chinese and other counterparts to use their influence to dissuade Iran from striking Israel, the State Department said. Blinken spoke by telephone over the past day to his Chinese, Turkish, Saudi and European counterparts "to make clear that escalation is not in anyone's interest and that countries should urge Iran not to escalate," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters on Thursday. CNN report on Gaza 'Flour Massacre' reveals Israeli disinformation drive A CNN investigation has unveiled significant discrepancies in the Israeli military's account of a devastating incident on February 29 in Gaza, now widely referred to as the "Flour Massacre." The CNN report, substantiated by eyewitness testimonies and video evidence, raises serious questions about the transparency of Netanyahu's extremist government, casting doubt on their official narrative. US will defend Philippines from any attack in South China Sea — Biden US President Joe Biden has pledged to defend the Philippines from any attack in the South China Sea, as he hosted the first joint summit with Tokyo and Manila amid growing tensions with Beijing. "The United States' defense commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad," Biden said as he met Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday.

*) Israel will invade Rafah and return to Khan Younis — minister Israel's war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has claimed without proof that Palestinian resistance group Hamas has been defeated militarily and the Israeli army will invade Rafah and reoccupy Khan Younis, a local media outlet reported. *) EU lawmakers approve major revamp of pact on migration and asylum European Union lawmakers have approved a major revamp of the bloc’s migration laws on how to manage the entry of thousands of people without authorisation. The members of the European Parliament voted on Wednesday on the "Pact on Migration and Asylum", regulations and policies meant to help address the issue of who should take responsibility for migrants and asylum seekers when they arrive. The proceedings were briefly interrupted by a group of demonstrators in the public gallery who wore shirts marked “this pact kills” and said “vote no!” The 27 EU member countries must now endorse the reform package, possibly in a vote in late April before it can enter force. *) South Korea's PM, top officials offer resignations over election defeat South Korea's prime minister and senior presidential officials have offered to resign en masse, media reports said, after their conservative ruling party suffered a crushing defeat in parliamentary elections. The results of Wednesday's election posed a huge political blow to President Yoon Suk-yeol, setting back his domestic agenda and leaving him facing an intensifying political offensive by his liberal opponents during his remaining three years in office. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and top advisers to Yoon submitted their resignations on Thursday, South Korean media, including Yonhap news agency, reported. Yoon's office didn't immediately officially confirm the reports. In a separate news conference, ruling People Power Party leader Han Dong-hoon said he would step down as well to take responsibility for the election defeat. With most of the votes counted, the main opposition Democratic Party and its satellite party appear to have won a combined 175 seats in the 300-member National Assembly. Another small liberal opposition party was expected to win 12 seats under a proportional representation system, according to South Korean media tallies. Yoon's ruling People Power Party and its satellite party were projected to have obtained 109 seats. The final official results were expected later Thursday. *) Trump takes another dig at Jewish voters who back Biden Donald Trump has lashed out at Jewish voters who back President Joe Biden and framed this year's election as a referendum on the strength of Christianity in the US, part of his sharp-edged continuing appeal to evangelical conservatives who are a critical element of his political base. Speaking in Atlanta ahead of a fundraiser, the presumptive Republican nominee on Wednesday renewed his running criticism of Biden's reaction to Israel's brutal war on besieged Gaza. "Biden has totally lost control of the Israel situation," said Trump, whose rise in 2016 depended heavily on white Christian conservatives. "Any Jewish person who votes for a Democrat or votes for Biden should have their head examined.” And finally… *) We have two years to save the planet: UN climate chief Governments, business leaders and development banks have two years to take action to avert a far worse climate crisis, the UN's climate chief has said in a speech that warned global warming is slipping down politicians' agendas. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change said on Wednesday that the next two years are "essential in saving our planet". "We still have a chance to make greenhouse gas emissions tumble, with a new generation of national climate plans. But we need these stronger plans, now," he said.

*) Israel blocks food three times more than other aid in Palestine's Gaza: UN Israel has been blocking far more convoys carrying food aid within Gaza, where famine is looming, than convoys carrying other kinds of aid, the UN said. On Tuesday, a spokesman for the United Nations' humanitarian agency pointed to statistics from March showing that it was much more difficult to get clearance for delivering food than other aid in the war-ravaged Palestinian territory. Israel is facing mounting international pressure to allow more aid into Gaza, which is facing a humanitarian catastrophe six months into the start of Israeli bombardment. *) Australia considers recognising independent Palestinian state Australia has become the latest country to advocate formal recognition of a Palestinian state. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on Tuesday that recognising a state of Palestine could restart the moribund Middle East peace process and undermine extremist forces in the Middle East. "Recognising a Palestinian state — one that can only exist side by side with a secure Israel — doesn't just offer the Palestinian people an opportunity to realise their aspirations", she told an audience in Canberra. "It also strengthens the forces for peace and undermines extremism. It undermines Hamas, Iran and Iran's other destructive proxies in the region." *) Palestine hails Turkish export restrictions on Israel amid Gaza onslaught Israel threatened to hit back at Türkiye over its decision to restrict exports of certain goods, saying they will “appeal to pro-Israel countries and organisations in the US to stop investments in Türkiye and prevent the import of products from Türkiye.” Israel will "contact countries and organisations in the US to stop investments in Türkiye and to prevent the import of products from Türkiye, and to our friends in the American Congress to examine a violation of the boycott laws and impose sanctions on Türkiye accordingly,” Israel Katz, Tel Aviv’s foreign minister, said on X on Tuesday. A statement by Katz’s office said he ordered the Foreign Ministry’s economic office to “draw up an extensive list of products that Israel will prevent Türkiye from exporting to Israel.” “Türkiye unilaterally violates the trade agreements with Israel, and Israel will take all necessary measures against it,” the statement said. *) Europe's top court condemns Switzerland in landmark climate ruling Europe's top rights court has said Switzerland was not doing enough to tackle the climate crisis in a historic decision that could force governments to adopt more ambitious climate policies. Hopes had been high for a legal turning point ahead of the rulings in the three cases, treated as a priority by the 17 judges of the court's Grand Chamber. The Swiss association of Elders for Climate Protection — 2,500 women aged 73 on average — had complained about the "failings of the Swiss authorities" in terms of climate protection that could "seriously harm" their health. The court ordered the Swiss state to pay the association almost $87,000 within three months. And finally… *) Nobel prize-winning physicist Peter Higgs dies at 94 Nobel prize-winning physicist Peter Higgs, who proposed the existence of the so-called "God particle" that helped explain how matter formed after the Big Bang, has died at age 94, the University of Edinburgh said. The university, where Higgs was an emeritus professor, said he died on Monday following a short illness. Higgs' work helps scientists understand one of the most fundamental riddles of the universe: how the Big Bang created something out of nothing 13.8 billion years ago. Higgs won the 2013 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work, alongside Francois Englert of Belgium, who independently came up with the same theory.

This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Tuesday April 9th. *) 'Pathetic': Nicaragua drags Germany to ICJ over Gaza aid, weapons to Israel Nicaragua has hauled Germany before the International Court of Justice to demand judges impose emergency measures to stop Berlin from providing Israel with weapons and other assistance. Lawyers for Nicaragua on Monday argued Germany was in breach of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, set up in the wake of the Holocaust, by furnishing Israel with weapons. In 2023 some 30 percent of Israel's military equipment purchases came from Germany, totalling $326 million - a tenfold increase on 2022. Germany will respond fully in court on Tuesday but has hit back at the allegations. *) UNSC revives Palestine's bid for full UN membership The United Nations Security Council has said it would decide this month on Palestine's bid for full UN membership. As the Gaza war rages on into its seventh month, the council's decision on Monday was described as "historic" by Palestine, but angrily denounced by Israel. Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the rotating presidency of the council, said that "the council has decided that this deliberation has to take place during the month of April." Any request to become a UN member state must first pass through the Security Council — where Israel's ally the United States wields a veto — and then be endorsed by the General Assembly. *) EU eyes offshoring refugees but avoids UK-style Rwanda plan The European Union is open to the idea of sending refugees and migrants to outside countries, even if it is not willing to go quite as far as following Britain and its plans to fly refugees to Rwanda. The concept of using third countries to host asylum-seekers who have reached Europe is seen in a deal Italy has recently struck with non-EU nation Albania. It is also foreshadowed in reform of EU migration and asylum laws that the European Parliament puts to a vote on Wednesday, and which contains a provision for sending asylum-seekers to a "safe" third country. *) Türkiye-Israel trade volume drops amid Gaza invasion — report Türkiye has restricted the export of certain products to Israel until it implements a ceasefire and allows “sufficient and uninterrupted flow" of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the Turkish Trade Ministry said. The requirements of this decision will be immediately implemented. The annex listed several types of aluminium and steel products, paint, electric cables, construction materials, and other materials. The ministry also said that the decision will remain in effect until Israel, within the framework of its obligations arising from international law, declares an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and allows a sufficient and uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, adding that Türkiye “has not allowed the sale of any product or service that can be used for military purposes to Israel” since a long time. And finally… *) 'Spectacular' total eclipse leaves North Americans spellbound People across North America — from a Mexican seashore to breathtaking Niagara Falls on the US-Canada border — have followed the solar eclipse and cheered the celestial show and, in Arkansas, were getting married en masse. Where clear skies prevailed, observers along the direct path of the eclipse were treated to the rare spectacle of the Moon appearing as a dark orb creeping in front of the Sun, briefly blocking out all but a brilliant halo of light, or corona, around the Sun's outer edge on Monday. It was North America's first total eclipse since 2017. And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com

This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Monday, April 8th. *) ICJ to hear against Germany for ‘facilitating’ Israel’s genocide in Gaza Germany faces charges from Nicaragua at the top UN court that it is “facilitating” acts of genocide and breaches of international law in Israel’s war on Gaza. In a 43-page submission to the International Court of Justice, Nicaragua argues that Germany is in breach of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, set up in the wake of the Holocaust. Nicaragua is demanding the judges impose emergency measures to stop Berlin providing Israel with weapons and other assistance. The Central American country will set out its case on Monday, with Germany due to respond the following day. *) Hamas ‘determined’ in Gaza truce, hostage swap deal with Israel Palestinian resistance group Hamas has reiterated its commitment to securing a deal that brings a cessation of hostilities. A delegation from Hamas arrived in Cairo and met with Abbas Kamel, head of the General Intelligence Directorate of Egypt, the movement said in a statement. The statement emphasised Hamas’ demands for an agreement that ensures the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the repatriation of hostages. In addition, Egyptian media noted that truce discussions would extend for the next 48 hours. *) Diplomatic staff leaves Ecuador after embassy raid — Mexico Mexico’s diplomatic personnel have begun leaving Ecuador after the two countries severed ties. On Friday, Quito’s security forces stormed the Mexican embassy in a bid to arrest former Ecuadorian vice president Jorge Glas, who was sheltering at the embassy. A day after the raid, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said that diplomatic personnel and their families would leave Ecuador. *) Ferry sinks, 90 people killed off Mozambique coast More than 90 people have died when an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, local authorities say. According to the officials, the converted fishing boat, carrying about 130 people, ran into trouble as it tried to reach an island off Nampula province. Many children were among the victims, he added. Rescuers had found five survivors and were searching for more, but sea conditions were making the operation difficult. And finally… *) Green onion outcry: humble vegetable scandal shakes up South Korea vote Used widely in South Korean cooking, green onions are dominating discussions ahead of the April 10 vote after an apparent gaff by the president sparked online outcry. President Yoon Suk Yeol visited a grocery store in the capital Seoul and said green onions were at a “reasonable price”. But local media reported that the store he visited had specially discounted the vegetable ahead of the president’s visit. His comments sparked an avalanche of online memes, with the opposition claiming the politician was out of touch and people brandishing green onions at campaign rallies. And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com

This is TRT World’s Daily News Brief for Friday, April 5th *) Israel promises to open Gaza aid routes after US arm-twisting Israel has said it will allow ‘temporary’ aid deliveries across its fence with northern Gaza, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office announced after a tense warning phone call from US President Joe Biden. The announcement coincides with increased international scrutiny of Israel after it accepted responsibility for a strike that killed seven employees of the US-based charity World Central Kitchen. The statement from the prime minister’s office outlined that Israel will allow the temporary delivery of humanitarian aid through Asdood Port and Erez crossing, known as Beit Hanoun to Palestinians. *) Israel ramps up defence, fearing Iran’s retaliation The Israeli military is bolstering its defences following a deadly strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus that reportedly killed 16 people, including seven Iranian Revolutionary Guard members has led to threats of retaliation. Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari confirmed the measures, which include suspending leave for combat units, blocking GPS signals in certain areas, and increasing manpower. *) Russia says destroyed over 40 airborne targets in Rostov-on-don The governor of Russia’s Rostov-on-Don region has said air defence units destroyed more than 40 aerial targets, although an electricity substation was damaged. Writing on the Telegram messaging app, Vasily Golubev said the drone strikes had focused on the Morozovsk district, north-east of Rostov-on-Don, which lies on Ukraine’s eastern border. *) Madagascar seeks removal of EU envoy who criticised law for child rapists Madagascar has demanded that the EU replace its ambassador to the island nation after she criticised a new law passed in February that allows child rapists to be chemically and surgically castrated. The request came after the EU’s ambassador, Isabelle Delattre Burger, denounced the law contrary to international norms and Madagascar’s constitution. The EU is evaluating the demand in consultation with the Malagasy government, with the regular rotation of ambassadors due in September. And finally… *) Missing dog found 2,000 miles from California home A dog that went missing in California has been found more than 3,000 kilometres away in suburban Detroit, leading to a dramatic reunion with her owners. Police picked up Mishka, a terrier mix who went missing last July, and took her to a shelter after a resident reported a stray dog near Harper Woods in the Midwestern state of Michigan. Staff at the Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society found that she had a microchip that identified her owners live 3,771 kilometres away in San Diego — making it unclear how she had travelled so far. After being alerted, her owner Mehrad Houman and his family will fly back to California Mishka after being examined by a veterinarian. And that’s your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com

*) Palestine reignites its quest for full UN seat amid Israel's war Palestine has revived its bid for full UN membership, according to a letter from its UN envoy Riyad Mansour to the UN secretary-general. The application, submitted to the Security Council, seeks a new review in April 2024 and the move underscores Palestine's long-standing push for global recognition of its statehood. Observers note the challenges ahead, as Israel's ally the US, which holds veto power on the Security Council, could derail the recommendation. Nevertheless, Palestine's bid has been backed by various organisations, including the League of Arab States and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference, underlining international support for Palestinian aspirations. *) Türkiye condemns Israeli attack on Iranian diplomatic mission in Damascus Türkiye has strongly condemned Israel's attack on an Iranian diplomatic mission in Damascus, describing it as a violation of international law and urged all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to international law. At least 11 people were killed in Monday's attack, including two Iranian Revolutionary Guard generals and several military advisers. This incident comes amidst Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza, raising fears of further escalation and the potential for a broader regional conflict. *) NATO mulls $107B 'Trump-proof' military fund for Ukraine NATO foreign ministers are meeting to discuss the establishment of long-term military assistance to Ukraine, including a proposed $107 billion fund. The initiative, proposed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, aims to give NATO a more direct role in coordinating arms deliveries to Ukraine, potentially replacing the US-led Ramstein Group. The move is seen as a measure to ensure continued assistance to Ukraine and guard against potential aid disruptions, especially if Donald Trump returns to the White House, diplomats said. *) Faye sworn in as Senegal's youngest president Senegal has sworn in Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Africa's youngest elected president at the age of 44, who previously worked as a tax inspector. Following his inauguration, Ousmane Sonko, a popular opposition figure central to Faye's victory, was appointed the country's new prime minister. Faye pledged to build a sovereign, just and prosperous Senegal, noting the need for systemic change. *) 'Strongest earthquake in 25 years' shakes Taiwan, causing tsunami A 7.5 magnitude earthquake kills at least four people in Taiwan during the morning rush hour, making it the strongest in 25 years and causing widespread damage. With its epicentre near Taroko National Park, the victims included three hikers killed by rockslides. Buildings across the island suffer damage, with schools evacuating students to sports fields equipped with safety gear. Train and subway services are suspended, and traffic halts along the East Coast due to landslides and falling debris, causing damage to vehicles and infrastructure.

*) Biden admin mulls whopping $18B arms package for Israel: report The Biden administration is currently considering an $18 billion arms package for Israel, including the sale of F-15 aircraft and ammunition, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The sale of 25 F-15s to Israel has been under consideration since the US received the formal request in January 2023. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant recently stressed the importance of maintaining Israel’s military edge, including its air capabilities, in talks with senior US officials, including National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin. *) Israel targets Gaza aid group, killing multiple foreign staffers Five people, including four foreigners, working for an aid organisation were killed in an Israeli air strike on their vehicle in the central Gaza town of Deir al Balah, according to local officials. The victims, including nationals from the UK, Poland and Australia, were part of a team from World Central Kitchen, a US-based aid organisation founded by celebrity chef Jose Andres. The workers’ vehicle was hit by an Israeli missile shortly after delivering aid from a ship in northern Gaza, according to eyewitnesses and Palestinian Red Crescent paramedic Mahmoud Thabet. *) Palestine seeks vote on full UN membership at Security Council The Palestinian Authority intends to seek full membership of the United Nations this month, according to Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN envoy. Mansour revealed Palestinian plans for Israel’s brutal war on besieged Gaza and the expansion of illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The aim is to put the issue to a vote at a ministerial meeting on April 18, although no specific date has yet been set for the vote. The Palestinian application for full membership, submitted in 2011, remains pending as the Security Council has yet to take a formal decision on it. *) Russia and Ukraine trade drone claims over Black Sea Russia and Ukraine have reported shooting down each other’s drones over the Black Sea, indicating an escalation in their ongoing conflict and a growing focus on unmanned aerial vehicles. Russia’s defence ministry said on Telegram that its air defence units had intercepted six Ukrainian drones attempting a “terrorist attack.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian air force spokesman Illya Yevlash announced on national television the downing of a Russian ‘Forpost’ drone, describing it as sophisticated and expensive. *) Google to delete billions of files containing Chrome-linked personal data Google has reached a settlement after a lawsuit alleged it tracked millions of US users in incognito mode, agreeing to delete a vast amount of search data if approved by a judge. The proposed settlement, filed in San Francisco federal court, mandates Google to “delete and/or remediate billions of data records” associated with users utilising Chrome browser’s incognito mode. The settlement, which excludes monetary damages and allows users to sue Google individually for damages, will be reviewed by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers on July 30.