Daily News Brief

*) 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.

*) US, Israel to discuss Rafah invasion in virtual meeting: report The US and Israel will hold a virtual meeting to discuss alternative proposals from the Biden administration regarding a possible Israeli military invasion of Rafah, where more than 1.5 million Palestinians are taking refuge, Israeli and US officials confirmed to Axios. The meeting, originally scheduled for last week, was cancelled by Netanyahu in protest at a perceived lack of US involvement as tensions escalated after the US refrained from vetoing a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. *) Israeli forces admit most Gaza killings are civilians The Israeli newspaper Haaretz collected testimony from Israeli officers and soldiers involved in the Gaza war who reportedly admitted that the majority of individuals classified by the army as “terrorists” were actually civilians. The Israeli army claimed that 9,000 terrorists were killed during the Gaza war. However, the officers and soldiers in the report testify to Haaretz that those killed were civilians, their only crime being crossing an invisible line drawn by the Israeli army. Another soldier also stated that they were explicitly instructed to shoot to kill any suspect who ran into a building, even if it resulted in serious civilian casualties. *) Azerbaijan warns Armenia against military ‘provocation’ along border Azerbaijan has warned Armenia against any military build-up on the border, saying any provocation would be dealt with firmly. In a statement on Sunday, Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry said intensive movements and military build-ups by the Armenian army had been observed recently. The ministry also added that there has been a further activation of revanchist forces threatening Azerbaijan with war and a concentration of manpower, armoured vehicles, and artillery installations in different directions of the Azerbaijani-Armenian conditional border. *) Rockets target Libyan PM’s residence, no casualties reported The residence of Libyan Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah was targeted with rocket-propelled grenades in an attack that caused no casualties, a Libyan minister told the press. The minister, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed in a statement on Sunday that the attack had caused some damage. The minister did not give further details. *) Erdogan declares local elections ‘turning point’ for Türkiye Türkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said the results of the local elections marked a “turning point” for his Justice and Development Party. Regarding the outcome of the local elections, Erdogan vowed to “respect the decision of the nation.” Speaking from the party’s headquarters in the capital Ankara, Erdogan said his party had failed to achieve the expected results in Sunday’s local elections and that the party “would evaluate the results of the local elections with an open heart within the party and will engage in self-criticism.”

*) Israel must ensure urgent aid, food gets into Gaza without delay: ICJ The world's top court has ordered Israel to "ensure urgent humanitarian assistance" in Gaza without delay, saying "famine has set in". It also said, "Israel shall take all necessary and effective measures to ensure, without delay the unhindered provision of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance," in Gaza And that Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine, but famine is setting in". *) Israeli strikes in Syria's Aleppo kill 33 people — report Israel's air strikes on the Syrian countryside near Aleppo have killed and wounded at least 33 civilians and regime soldiers, according to several media reports and officials. Syrian regime news agency SANA said that "at approximately 1:45 am, the Israeli enemy launched an air attack from the direction of Athriya, southeast of Aleppo", adding that "civilians and military personnel" had been killed and wounded in the strike on Friday. However, the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor said the casualties consisted of military personnel, and the attack killed at least "36 Syrian soldiers" and targeted an area "near rockets depots belonging to Lebanese group Hezbollah". *) 'Evidence' links Ukraine to Moscow massacre — Russia Russia said it had evidence that the perpetrators of last week's massacre at a concert hall outside Moscow were linked to "Ukrainian nationalists", a claim the United States called "nonsense". Despite a Daesh affiliate claiming responsibility, President Vladimir Putin and his security services continue to claim that Kiev and the West were somehow involved in the attack, which killed at least 143 people. The Russian Investigative Committee has also said they found evidence linking the detained terrorists with Ukrainian nationalists through analysis of seized technical devices and financial transactions. *) US seeks to stop exports to 600+ defence firms with Russia ties A US Commerce Department official said that they are asking American companies to voluntarily stop shipping goods to more than 600 foreign parties out of concern that the items could be diverted to Russia for use in its attack on Ukraine. He said that the Commerce Department had sent letters to at least 20 companies in recent weeks with the warning in its latest effort to stop Russia's war in Ukraine. The companies in question make and sell products found in missiles and drones found in Ukraine. *) China's Xiaomi to enter highly competitive EV market for first time Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is set to unveil its first EV at a press conference in Beijing, entering a fiercely competitive sector in the world's biggest car market. Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun said the SU7 EV will "stake its reputation" to challenge Chinese car giant BYD and Elon Musk's Tesla. Lei said the SU7, available in blue bay, olive green, or elegant grey, even includes "sound simulation" to recreate the thrill of driving a sports car.

*) Prepping for Rafah invasion, Israel orders 40,000 tents from China Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the purchase of 40,000 tents from China to be set up in besieged Gaza, Israeli media reported, in preparation for a ground invasion of Rafah. It comes as Netanyahu downplayed global fears of a humanitarian catastrophe if Israel launches a planned ground invasion into Gaza’s southernmost city, where more than 1.5 million displaced Palestinians have taken refuge. Speaking to a US Congressional delegation visiting Israel, Netanyahu said people sheltering in Rafah will be able to move away from the fighting. *) Biden team official flags plausible genocide in Gaza, resigns in protest A US State Department official has resigned in protest of the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s war on Gaza. Annelle Sheline, who worked as a foreign affairs officer in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour, accused Washington of “directly enabling” a plausible genocide in the besieged Palestinian enclave. Sheline wrote in an article for CNN that she was “unable to serve an administration that enables such atrocities,” and resigned. *) F-16s won’t change anything in Ukraine battlefield: Putin Russian news agencies quoted President Vladimir Putin as telling military pilots that if Western countries supply Ukraine with F-16 fighters, the aircraft will not alter the situation on the battlefield. Putin said the fighters can carry nuclear weapons and Moscow would have to take account of that in its military planning. Putin’s remarks followed comments by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba that the F-16 aircraft should arrive in Ukraine in the coming months. *) Colombia kicks out Argentine diplomats after Milei calls Petro ‘terrorist’ Colombia has ordered the expulsion of Argentine diplomats from their embassy in the Andean nation, Colombia’s Foreign Ministry said. It cited “denigrating” comments by Argentine President Javier Milei about Colombian President Gustavo Petro. In a recent interview with news channel CNN, which has not yet been aired in full, Milei called Petro a “terrorist”, “murderer” and “communist”. *) Vinicius Junior breaks down as he laments racism in Spanish football Real Madrid and Brazil star Vinicius Junior broke down in tears at a news conference as he spoke about the racism he suffered in Spain. The 23-year-old forward said, “Playing football is important, but the fight against racism is very important.” Vinicius said that racism is a global problem and noted that football’s governing bodies could all “do more things.”

*) Isolated, US & Israel see UN states back report on Israeli genocide in Gaza The UN expert who concluded Israel was committing acts of genocide in besieged Gaza has received broad support at the United Nations, with countries speaking up to back her and her report. Francesca Albanese, the special rapporteur on human rights in the Palestinian territories, told the UN Human Rights Council that countries should impose an arms embargo and sanctions on Israel. Albanese said Israel was characterising the entire Palestinian population in besieged Gaza as “targetable, killable and destroyable” and had ostentatiously laid bare its “genocidal intent” to “rid Palestine of Palestinians.” *) ‘He swam to get food for his children’: 12 drown as US drops aid off Gaza Palestinian resistance group Hamas has demanded a halt to aid airdrops after 18 people drowned while attempting to reach the dropped supplies. The group said Israel must lift its brutal siege and allow aid into Gaza via land crossings. Six people were killed in stampedes and 12 others drowned off the territory’s Mediterranean coast trying to salvage aid packages. *) Russia claims downing 18 airborne targets in Belgorod Russia has claimed that its air defence units downed 18 airborne targets over the southern region of Belgorod bordering Ukraine, the regional governor said. Writing on the Telegram messaging app, the governor of the Belgorod region said one person was injured and there was damage to private homes and cars. Ukraine has been staging air attacks for months on Belgorod and two nearby regions, Kursk and Voronezh. *) India court bans Muslim religious schools in UP state ahead of election A court in India has effectively banned Muslim religious schools in the country’s most populous state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling last week scraps a 2004 law governing Muslim religious schools in Uttar Pradesh, saying it violates India’s constitutional secularism and ordering that students be moved to conventional schools. The Allahabad High Court order affects 2.7 million students and 10,000 teachers in 25,000 religious schools across the state. *) Türkiye stands firm against false claims of defence ties with Israel Türkiye has rejected allegations of cooperation with Israel, particularly defence-based cooperation, saying the country will not do anything that will harm Palestinians and their cause. The country’s defence ministry said, “It is not possible for the Republic of Türkiye, which has always supported Palestine, to carry out or engage in any activity that would harm Palestinians.” The statement came after false claims by some media outlets that Türkiye continues to export gunpowder, weapons and ammunition to Israel.

*) UNSC finally demands Gaza ceasefire in Ramadan after US abstains vote The UN Security Council for the first time in 5 months since the Israeli war on Gaza started has demanded an immediate ceasefire after the United States, Tel Aviv’s ally which vetoed previous drafts, abstained. All 14 other members voted in favour of the resolution, which “demands an immediate ceasefire” for the ongoing Islamic holy month of Ramadan. It also demanded the “immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as ensuring humanitarian access to address their medical and other humanitarian needs.” *) Blinken tells Gallant alternatives exist to Rafah invasion US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stressed that “alternatives exist to a ground invasion of Rafah” in a meeting with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. Speaking about Rafah, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller earlier highlighted that a “full-scale invasion would be a mistake and that Israel has not presented a coherent evacuation plan for Rafah.” But on top of that, Miller said, “This type of invasion would weaken Israel’s security and would make Israel less safe, not more safe. It would undermine its standing in the world.” *) Pakistan foils BLA terror attack on naval air station in Balochistan Pakistani security forces have foiled a late-night attack on a naval air station in southwestern Balochistan, according to officials. Four to six heavily armed militants tried to enter PNS Siddiq in Turbat district last night. However, security forces “neutralised all the attackers” and no loss to any “sensitive equipment or casualties of our own troops” has so far been reported, a senior military official told Anadolu Agency. There was no official statement from the military. *) Haiti delegates squabble over choosing leader as gang violence escalates Efforts to form a transitional government and fill a power vacuum in violence-torn Haiti have failed as delegates bickered over the choice of a leader and death threats prompted one member to quit over the weekend. After Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned, the body, supported by the United Nations and regional bloc CARICOM, among others, is still struggling to come into shape two weeks after Henry’s March 11 announcement. Meetings were held over the weekend and on Monday, with a virtual summit between the delegates and CARICOM scheduled, the members of the Council are expected to try to elect a leader. *) EU launches probe of Apple, Google, Meta compliance with new digital law The EU has hit Apple, Google parent Alphabet and Meta with the first-ever probes under a mammoth digital law, which could lead to big fines against the US giants. Among six firms named as market “gatekeepers” under the EU’s landmark Digital Markets Act — along with Amazon, TikTok owner ByteDance and Microsoft — the companies have been obliged to comply with the new law since March 7. Under the new rules, the commission can impose fines of up to 10 percent of a company’s total global turnover. This can rise to up to 20 percent for repeat offenders. In extreme circumstances, the EU can order the break up of companies.

*) UN agency for Palestinians barred from North Gaza aid deliveries The United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees says that Israel had definitively barred it from making aid deliveries in northern Gaza, where the threat of famine is highest. The head of the agency Philippe Lazzarini said on X that “despite the tragedy unfolding under our watch, the Israeli Authorities informed the UN that they will no longer approve any UNRWA food convoys to the north.” He called the decision “outrageous,” saying the decision makes it intentional to obstruct lifesaving assistance during a “man-made famine.” *) Israeli war to only end with Jews settling in northern Gaza: Knesset member The head of the Knesset’s National Security Committee Zvika Fogel has said “the Israeli war on Gaza will end with Jews settling in northern Gaza,” while speaking to Israeli public broadcaster KAN. He added that “Israel must end the war when Jews settle in the entire northern Gaza Strip.” Fogel called for encouraging the “voluntary migration” of Palestinians from Gaza saying, whoever wants to “voluntarily migrate” will receive a “grant” from him. *) Four suspects remanded in custody over Moscow concert attack Four men accused of involvement in the massacre at a Moscow concert hall that killed 137 people have been remanded in custody, as Russia observed a national day of mourning following the attack claimed by the Daesh terror group. President Vladimir Putin has vowed to punish those behind the “barbaric terrorist attack,” and said the four gunmen had been arrested while trying to flee to Ukraine. Kiev has strongly denied any connection to the attack. All four suspects have been charged with terrorism, according to Moscow’s Basmanny district court, and face life imprisonment. *) Senegal anti-establishment candidate leads in presidential poll Senegal’s anti-establishment candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye appeared to be closing in on a first-round victory in a presidential poll. Opposition figure Faye had promised voters “a profound change” and a presidential programme of left-wing pan-Africanism. Faye was well ahead of former ruling coalition Prime Minister Amadou Ba, according to preliminary results from individual polling stations published by local media and on social networks. *) Pro-Palestine protesters stage event at New York Metropolitan Art Museum Protesters covered the steps of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art with a large patchwork blanket displaying messages of solidarity with Palestine to draw attention to Israel’s war on Gaza. Many demonstrators gathered on the steps of the museum, also known as The Met as they chanted slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “How many children did Israel kill today?” They also distributed brochures that highlighted the museum’s silence over Israel’s “genocide” of Palestinians and its support for its war in Gaza, advocating for a world where justice prevails.

*) Blinken to press Israel for 'immediate' truce in Gaza war US Secretary of State Antony Blinken heads to Israel to press for a truce in Gaza, ahead of a key UN Security Council vote on a US draft resolution calling for an "immediate" ceasefire. Israel's main backer the United States announced it would submit for a vote on Friday a draft to the Security Council on the need for an "immediate ceasefire as part of a hostage deal", after repeatedly using its veto power to block other similarly worded resolutions. *) UK, Australia call for ‘immediate cessation of fighting’ in Gaza Britain and Australia declared the need for an "immediate cessation of fighting" in Gaza, as diplomatic pressure built on Israel to ditch a planned ground assault on the southern city of Rafah. After a meeting of Australian and UK foreign and defence ministers in Adelaide, Australia the allies stressed the "urgency of an immediate cessation of fighting in Gaza to allow aid to flow and hostages to be released". *) Trump faces backlash from US Jews over his remarks about Jewish voters Several members of the US Jewish community have expressed criticism towards former President Donald Trump following his recent comments, where he accused Jewish Democrats of being disloyal to their faith. Jonathan Sarna, an American Jewish history professor, highlighted that Trump's remarks are exacerbating tensions within the Jewish community. Sarna noted, "For people who hate Donald Trump in the Jewish community, certainly this statement will reinforce their sense that they don’t want to have anything to do with him." *) Russian missile strikes damage power supply in Ukraine's Kharkiv About 15 blasts were heard in Ukraine's Kharkiv, mayor Ihor Terekhov said, and Russian missile strikes appeared to be targeting the city's power supplies, causing partial blackouts. Terekhov did not report any casualties. He said some of the city's water pumps had stopped because of the attacks. In central Ukraine, Kryvyi Rih mayor Oleksandr Vilkul said blasts were heard in the city, but provided no details. And finally… *) Oil prices decline amid potential Gaza ceasefire, dollar strength Oil prices slipped on the possibility of a nearing Gaza ceasefire that could ease geopolitical concerns in the Middle East, while a stronger dollar and faltering US gasoline demand also weighed on prices. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he believed talks in Qatar could reach a Gaza ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Brent crude futures fell by 0.5 percent to $85.36 a barrel, while US crude futures dropped 0.5 percent to $80.67/barrel. Both contracts are set to end the week little changed after rising more than 3 percent last week.

*) US submits UN resolution for 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza The United States has submitted a draft resolution to the UN Security Council, calling for an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza linked to the release of hostages. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced it during his visit to Saudi Arabia, where discussions on the ongoing Israel's war on Gaza were held. The resolution is aimed at addressing the escalating situation and garnering international support for peace efforts in the region. *) Nearly 70 ex-US officials urge Biden to take hard line on Israel A group consisting of nearly 70 former US officials, diplomats, and military officers has issued an open letter urging President Joe Biden to warn Israel of serious consequences should it deny civil rights and basic necessities to Palestinians, as well as expand illegal Zionist settlement activity in the occupied West Bank. The letter calls for concrete action from the United States to oppose such practices, including potential restrictions on assistance to Israel consistent with US law and policy. The group highlighted Israel's invasion, citing "repeated violations" of international law prohibiting indiscriminate killing and the use of weapons that fail to discriminate between combatants and civilians. *) 'We have shown flexibility' to reach ceasefire deal in Gaza: Hamas Palestinian group Hamas has expressed flexibility in reaching a ceasefire deal with Israel in Gaza. Hamas leader Osama Hamdan stated during a press conference in Beirut that the resistance movement has demonstrated openness to an agreement, shifting the onus onto Israel to respond. Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas have resumed in Doha, Qatar, aiming to establish a truce in Gaza. Hamdan outlined Hamas's vision for a comprehensive agreement, emphasising key priorities such as halting aggression, facilitating the return of displaced individuals, withdrawing occupation forces from Gaza, and enabling aid entry. *) UN warns Sudan among 'worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory' The United Nations has issued a dire warning regarding the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, describing it as one of the worst in recent history after nearly a year of conflict. Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations at the UN Office for the Coordination for Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), lamented the lack of action from the international community, labelling the situation a "humanitarian travesty." Speaking on behalf of UNOCHA head Martin Griffiths, Wosornu emphasised the urgent need for attention and action, highlighting the significant scale of humanitarian needs, displacement, and hunger facing Sudanese civilians. *) Musk's Neuralink unveils brain-chip patient playing online chess Elon Musk's brain-chip startup, Neuralink, has achieved a significant milestone by live-streaming its first patient using a chip implanted in his brain to play online chess. Noland Arbaugh, a 29-year-old who was paralysed below the shoulder following a diving accident, utilised the Neuralink device to control the cursor on his laptop while playing chess. The implant, designed to enable individuals to control a computer cursor or keyboard solely through their thoughts, marks a remarkable advancement in neurotechnology. Arbaugh, who received the implant from Neuralink in January, previously demonstrated the ability to control a computer mouse using his thoughts, as confirmed by Musk last month.