September 20, 2024

*) Hezbollah: Israeli device blasts in Lebanon a declaration of war Lebanon's Hezbollah has called the device blasts in Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday a "declaration of war". "With this operation, the enemy crossed all... red lines," Hassan Nasrallah said in his first televised appearance after the attacks, accusing Israel of trying to "kill no fewer than 5,000 people". Early morning on Thursday Lebanon and Israel exchanged dozens of cross-border missile strikes, targeting each others’ positions. Lebanese authorities report significant damage and multiple injuries. *) US military ready amid Israel-Lebanon war fears The United States has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East as tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, US officials have said. Currently, about 40,000 troops, warships, and fighter jet squadrons are positioned in the region. Despite growing concerns that the conflict may widen, Washington has not announced plans for additional deployments. US military officials say the current forces are sufficient to deter further escalation. *) EU supports Ukraine’s call for arms use in Russia The European Parliament has passed a non-binding resolution urging EU member states to allow Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia. The vote saw 425 in favour, 131 against, and 63 abstentions. Kiev has long requested permission to use donated arms against Russia, arguing it is essential for self-defence. Moscow, in response, warned of severe consequences, with Russian officials claiming such actions could lead to a world war. *) India’s Modi pledges to restore Kashmiri autonomy India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to restore statehood to India-administered Kashmir, during his first election rally in the region since 2014. The promise comes after a high 60 percent voter turnout in the first phase of local elections, the first since Kashmir's autonomy was revoked in 2019. Many voters say they’re expressing frustration over the 2019 decision and hope to elect leaders who understand their local issues. *) European carmakers seek EU help as EV sales drop European carmakers request urgent EU assistance due to declining electric vehicle sales and stricter emissions regulations set for 2025. The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association cited challenges such as a shrinking electric vehicle market, lack of charging infrastructure and competitive pressures. They warned of potential fines, production cuts, and job losses if conditions do not improve. But despite these issues, electric vehicle sales are expected to rebound next year.

*) UN demands Israel must end 'unlawful' presence in Palestine within a year The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution demanding Israel end its "unlawful presence" in the Occupied Palestinian Territory within 12 months. The resolution received 124 votes in favour, with 43 abstentions and 14 countries, including Israel and the US, voting against it. It comes just before world leaders gather in New York for the UN General Assembly, where Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas are both expected to speak. The resolution also calls for a halt in arms transfers to Israel that could be used in the occupied territories. *) Second wave of explosions hits Lebanon At least 20 people were killed and 450 injured when thousands of two-way personal radios used by Hezbollah members in Lebanon exploded in a second wave of intelligence operation that started on Tuesday with the explosions of pager devices. The latest deaths and injuries brought the toll from the two days of blasts to 32 dead, including at least two children, and more than 3,000 injured. *) US urges Israel, Hezbollah to 'keep us from moving into another conflict' US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield has called for calm between Israel and Hezbollah following deadly attacks in Lebanon. Thomas-Greenfield emphasised the need for de-escalation to prevent the conflict from spreading, while the US continues to seek resolutions for Israel's ongoing war in Gaza and calls for the release of hostages. *) Cameroon dam release raises flood fears in Nigeria — link Nigeria is facing a flood threat as neighbouring Cameroon starts releasing water from its Lagdo dam. It comes after heavy rains in the region, already causing flooding in Borno state. Eleven Nigerian states are at risk, including key agricultural areas. Authorities are urging vigilance and preparedness to minimize potential damage. *) Fed cuts rates sharply The Federal Reserve made a significant move yesterday, slashing interest rates by half a percentage point. This is the first rate cut since the pandemic, aiming to ease inflation and support the economy. The decision will likely lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, impacting everything from mortgages to credit cards.

*) Israel 'fully responsible' for pager explosions: Hezbollah Lebanon's Hezbollah group blames Israel for the simultaneous explosion of pagers used by the group’s fighters that killed at least nine people. Calling the attacks a "major security breach,” the group says Israel will be punished. Lebanese authorities have urged citizens to dispose of their pagers immediately, while rescue teams work to aid the wounded. The incident has further escalated tensions, as the two nations are already engaged in a prolonged conflict. *) US envoy to UN scrambles to justify vetoes on Palestine's bids at UNSC US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, defended the use of the veto against Palestine in favour of Israel at the UN Security Council, stating that Washington uses its veto power to protect its interests and will not apologise for it. In response to questions about the impact of US vetoes on Gaza ceasefires and Palestinian statehood ahead of the UN General Assembly, she acknowledged the US respects the International Court of Justice, but criticised the Palestinian resolution demanding an end to Israel's presence in the occupied territories as flawed and unlikely to bring tangible benefits. *) Ursula von der Leyen unveils new team of European Commissioners - Link Ursula von der Leyen reveals her new team of European Commissioners, ending weeks of speculation. The most significant move has been the establishment of a new post aimed at strengthening the EU's defence. Former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius has been appointed as the EU's Defence and Space Commissioner. Kubilius, a well-known hawk against Russia, focuses on bolstering military production and integrating Ukraine's military industry with the EU. *) Malian capital hit by rare militant attack - Link A surprise militant attack on a military airport and training centre in Bamako, the capital of Mali, has left the city on edge. Heavy gunfire was reported near the police station controlling access to the civilian airport. It's the first major assault of its kind in years. JNIM (Jay-neem), a group linked to Al Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attack. While the army says the situation is under control, the full extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear. *) Oldest Sunday paper up for sale The world’s oldest Sunday paper, The Observer, might have a new owner soon. Its current owner, GMG, is in talks to sell it to online startup Tortoise Media. Founded in 1791, The Observer has been with GMG for over 30 years. If the sale goes through, The Guardian which is operating under GMG, will remain a 24/7 online publication with a global focus.

*) Israel killed over 700 infants, 12,000 minors in Gaza: Palestine data The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza says Israel forces have killed 710 infants and 11,983 minors since October 7 last year. The ministry has compiled a list of 34,344 Palestinians killed in the ongoing conflict, including elderly victims and newborn children. These are the known victims. The total number of those killed crosses 41,220 Experts believe the actual death toll may be even higher, with estimates suggesting as many as 200,000 Palestinians killed in the war and its indirect consequences. *) Israel opposition leader urges Netanyahu to finalise Gaza deal - Link Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to secure a Gaza truce deal without delay. Speaking in Washington after meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Lapid underlined that political interests must be put aside to prioritise the return of Israeli hostages. He stressed that Israel "will not heal" until this is achieved. *) Suspect in second Trump assassination attempt charged with gun crimes US authorities have charged Ryan Wesley Routh with federal gun crimes after he allegedly attempted to assassinate former president Donald Trump. Routh was arrested at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course, where he had camped for nearly 12 hours with a rifle and food before a Secret Service agent confronted him. Prosecutors allege Routh is a flight risk, with court documents revealing he was at the scene for several hours. Authorities have yet to reveal a motive, but Routh has a criminal history and previously expressed outrage about global political events. *) Putin orders 180,000 more troops, raising total to 1.5M amid Ukraine war Russian President Vladimir Putin wants another 180,000 Russians to join the armed forces. This will take the size of the Russian military to 1.5 million personnel as the war in Ukraine continues. The decree, effective December 1, aims to address Russia's manpower shortages, which have been blamed for Ukraine's recent advances in the Kursk region. Most of Russia’s capable forces are engaged in the eastern Ukraine offensive, making steady progress in recent months. And finally… *) Germany expands border controls despite EU protests Germany has expanded border controls with all nine neighbouring countries, sparking criticism from other EU members. The move, aimed at curbing irregular migration, comes after a series of deadly attacks and rising far-right support. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated the controls, initially for six months, will include spot checks. Poland and Austria voiced concerns, while the European Commission warned that such measures should only be taken in exceptional case.

*) Israeli army admits to killing three hostages The Israeli army has admitted three hostages, whose bodies were found last December, were killed in its own air strike in Gaza. The victims, two soldiers and one civilian were reportedly near a senior Hamas official who was the target of the strike. Though the army had known these details since February, the information was only recently shared with the families. *) FBI investigates fresh Trump ‘assassination attempt’ The FBI is investigating what it describes as an "attempted assassination" of former US president Donald Trump after Secret Service agents fired on an armed man at Trump’s golf club in Florida. Trump was on the course and remained unharmed. The suspect Ryan Wesley Routh fled the scene but was later arrested during a traffic stop. Authorities recovered a rifle, camera, and backpacks at the scene. Routh had previously been interviewed in a report on foreign fighters in Ukraine. *) Israel offers residency for African, Indian asylum seekers who contributed to the Gaza war Israel is offering permanent residency to African asylum seekers as a trade-off for fighting for the Israeli military in Gaza, according to Haaretz. Defence officials confirm the initiative is underway. However, so far no asylum seekers who helped in the conflict have been granted official status. Currently, over 30,000 African asylum seekers live in Israel, many of whom volunteered for work after the October 7 attack. *) Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso reveal plan for common passport The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), formed by the military leaders of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, has announced plans to launch a common biometric passport. This new passport aims to enhance cooperation, security, and ease of movement for citizens across the three nations. Mali’s military leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, also revealed plans for a shared information channel to unify communication efforts. *) SpaceX Polaris Dawn crew returns to Earth SpaceX's Polaris Dawn crew has safely returned to Earth after a groundbreaking five-day mission, including the first commercial spacewalk. The Crew Dragon capsule landed off the coast of Florida, carrying four crew members, including the mission commander and two engineers. The mission reached a record altitude of 1,400 km, marking the highest human orbit since the Apollo era.

*) Illegal settlers, Israeli soldiers raid West Bank villages Illegal Israeli settlers and soldiers stormed several villages and towns in the occupied West Bank overnight, leading to confrontations with Palestinian residents. Palestinian Television reported that one person was injured during a raid by settlers who were protected by the army in the village of Umm Safa in northern Ramallah. The head of the local village council, Marwan Sabah, said settlers positioned at Jabal al-Ras attacked the village and fired live ammunition at homes, with the backing of the Israeli army. *) Missile from Yemen fell in central Israel — Israeli army The Israeli military said a missile fired from Yemen crossed into central Israel and "fell in an open area". The army said in a statement that "a surface-to-surface missile was identified crossing into central Israel from the East and fell in an open area. No injuries were reported." *) Türkiye urges int'l investigation into Israel’s killing of Turkish activist Turkish Presidency's Director of Communications Fahrettin Altun has called on the US to investigate Israel's killing of activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi. Altun said on his official X account, "Israel targeted her to silence those who raise their voices against its brutal oppression of the Palestinian people." Türkiye has launched an investigation into Israel's killing of the dual Turkish-American citizen. *) Head of NATO military committee backs Kiev's right to strike inside Russia Admiral Rob Bauer, head of NATO's military committee, said that Ukraine has the right to strike deep into Russia for combat advantage. This stance reflects the views of several US allies, though the Biden administration is cautious about allowing such strikes with American-made weapons. Bauer asserted that nations under attack have the right to defend themselves beyond their borders. He also highlighted that countries can impose limits on the weapons they supply to Ukraine. *) Maldives says no need for IMF bailout Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer announced that the tropical paradise is moving forward with tax hikes to handle its debt. Zameer reassured reporters that their bilateral partners are understanding their situation. He said, “We’re not looking to the IMF right now,” noting that their current reserve dip is just a temporary issue, reforms and streamlining state-owned enterprises will boost liquidity.

*) Third man 'self-immolates' to protest Israel's Gaza genocide, US complicity Anti-war activist Matt Nelson has reportedly self-immolated in protest of US support for Israel's war in Gaza. A video surfaced on YouTube showing Nelson condemning the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s siege and violence. He said, "My name is Matt Nelson, and I am about to engage in an extreme act of protest.", calling for an end to US funding of Israel’s actions in Gaza and urging support for the ICC indictment of Benjamin Netanyahu. *) Biden, Starmer put off Ukraine missiles decision after Putin's warning British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Joe Biden have postponed a decision on allowing Ukraine to fire long-range missiles into Russia, a move that sparked threats from Moscow of war with NATO. Starmer said after meeting Biden at the White House that they discussed strategy but not a specific capability. Starmer had planned to push Biden to approve sending British Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine but indicated the talks will continue at the UN General Assembly in New York next week. *) Lead author of Israeli Army's ethics code says troops violating it in Gaza As Israel’s bombing of Gaza enters its 344th day, the Israeli Army’s ethical standards face growing scrutiny. In Haaretz, Asa Kasher, the 84-year-old author of the Army’s Code of Ethics, questioned whether soldiers are ignoring the code. Kasher cautioned, "Thousands of uninvolved Gazans have died, a fact that anyone valuing human life must confront." *) Pope Francis slams Israeli strikes on Gaza schools as 'ugly' Pope Francis condemned the killing of Palestinian children in Israeli air strikes on Gaza, calling the bombing of schools to target Hamas fighters "ugly." On a flight back to Rome, he expressed doubt that Israel’s war on Gaza would end soon. "I am sorry to say this," the pope said, "but I don't think they are taking steps toward peace." *) UNESCO 'deeply concerned' about possible looting from Sudan museums Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams admitted it's been tough watching their Boeing ride leave without them, as they now face months stuck in space. They addressed the return of the problem-plagued Boeing Starliner that brought them to the ISS in June but was deemed too risky for their return. Their eight-day mission is now expected to last more than eight months.

*) Chief of Israeli intel unit quits over October 7 failure The head of the Israeli army's notorious intelligence and surveillance unit has accepted responsibility for failing to prevent a raid by Hamas fighters on October 7 last year. Brigadier General Yossi Sariel, who led Unit 8200, told Chief of Staff Herzl Halevi he’s resigning. Sariel is one of seven high-ranking officials, including top military leaders, to step down amid backlash over Hamas' attacks on Israeli military sites and settlements, once Palestinian lands. *) New video, witnesses refute Israel's account of Eygi's killing The Israeli army says Eygi was "very likely" hit unintentionally during a "violent riot" aimed at the "key instigator." But new evidence opposes that claim. Video and witness reports suggest that the killing of Turkish-American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi in the occupied West Bank was in fact a targeted assassination. In this Washington Post's investigation, it shows that Eygi was shot after 30 minutes when the clashes in Beita had ended. *) Biden, Gaza 'key factors' driving US support for Africa UNSC seats The US push for two permanent UN Security Council seats for Africa and a rotating seat for island nations is tied to boosting Biden's legacy and shifting focus from Israel's war on Gaza, a UN expert told TRT World. Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group said, "Biden might be remembered as the president who paved the way for Council reform." Gowan added that the move helps distract from the US's controversial vetoes on truce calls in Gaza saying "The US wants to be seen as a reformer, not a spoiler." *) Kim's visit reveals North Korea's uranium enrichment plant for first time North Korea’s Kim Jong-un has been wanting to expand his country’s nuclear capabilities for a while now. And now for the first time ever, he has publicly disclosed a uranium enrichment facility. Kim said he is aiming to exponentially boost the production of nuclear weapons for self-defence amid growing nuclear threats from the US and its allies. *) UNESCO 'deeply concerned' about possible looting from Sudan museums UNESCO has sounded the alarm over armed groups reportedly looting museums and heritage sites in war-torn Sudan. It said it was particularly concerned by reports of looting at the National Museum of Sudan, as well as the Khalifa House Museum in Omdurman and Nyala Museum in South Darfur. The National Museum, which opened in the 1970s, has been home to more than 2,700 objects including some important pieces from the ancient Egyptian Pharaonic dynasties and Nubian culture.

*) Islamic Action Front becomes largest party in Jordan parliament Jordan's opposition party, the Islamist Action Front (IAF), made a big splash in the latest parliamentary election. Early results show the front bagging up to a fifth of the seats. The party’s leader Wael al Saqqa said, “We’ve earned the people’s trust, and now the real work begins.” But pro-government and tribal groups still hold the upper hand in the 138-seat parliament. *) 'Biggest lie': Harris under fire for falsely accusing Hamas of rapes The US presidential candidate Kamala Harris might have received accolades for taking on Donald Trump in the debate. But she is facing backlash for her false remarks about Hamas fighters allegedly raping Israeli women during the October 7 attacks. “It’s shameful that Kamala Harris is spreading atrocity propaganda on national TV,” said political strategist Ashish Prashar in an interview with TRT World. Prashar added, “She’s pushing these lies to justify Israel’s right to genocide.” *) Debris with remains of 10,000 people — Rebuilding Gaza is an uphill battle Rebuilding Gaza after Israel's war will cost billions of dollars, according to United Nations estimates. The destruction caused by Israel’s military, with US-supplied weapons, has left Gaza in ruins. Clearing the 40 million tonnes of rubble alone could take 15 years and cost up to $600 million, the UN warns. With such massive devastation, the road to recovery will be long and costly for the blockaded enclave. *) Netanyahu seeks to choreograph Israeli probe to dodge ICC arrest warrant Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might have a trick up his sleeve that he believes can help him avoid the war crime proceedings at the International Criminal Court. His justice minister Yariv Levin has asked the Attorney General to investigate. Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over their handling of the war on Gaza. The Israeli Channel 12 says this move is actually an effort to shield them from potential arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court. The strategy suggests that the ICC should step back if domestic legal proceedings are considered sufficient. *) Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn crowned world's top female breakdancer Australian Olympic breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn, once mocked for her kangaroo-inspired routine at the Olympics, is now the world’s number one breakdancer. At 37, Gunn faced ridicule on social media and late-night shows for her performance and outfit at the recent Olympics, with many questioning her place on the team. However, she's had the last laugh, rising to the top of the global rankings - on the basis of what’s being called a technicality.

*) Harris and Trump spar at Presidential debate He called her a Marxist. She repeated false claims about Hamas. Donald Trump and Kamala Harris clashed over a range of issues in a presidential debate that was viewed by millions of people. Harris took a dig at Trump for talking about fictional characters like Hannibal Lecter and lecturing Americans on how windmills cause cancer. Trump accused Harris of hating Israel. While their followers in the US might have cringed and shifted in their seats with anger, many of us in the rest of the world were left wondering what role the next US president will play in ending deadly conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan. *) Israel bombs parts of occupied West Bank and Gaza in latest aggression Israel has yet again conducted air strikes killing nine Palestinians in Gaza’s Jabalia and five in the occupied West Bank’s Tubas. Palestinian Red Crescent crews were able to retrieve the bodies of all five people from the bombing site in Tubas. A UN aid convoy was also stopped and held at gunpoint by Israeli soldiers in northern Gaza. *) Biden mulls allowing Ukraine to engage Russia with US long-range missiles Ukraine President Vladimir Zelenskyy might finally have his day on the battlefield. Reports say that US President Joe Biden is considering allowing Ukraine to use long-range weapons against Russia. For months, Zelenskyy has begged his Western allies to let his army use missiles and jets that can hit deep inside Russia. But many of the weapons that have gone to Ukraine have come from NATO members. And that raises the possibility that any mistake can drag them into a direct conflict with Russia. *) 9/11: United States’ legacy in Afghanistan Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks on the United States, which started one of the longest and bloodiest US invasions. Tens of thousands of Afghans were killed in the war that followed. Hundreds were kidnapped and sent to Guantanamo Bay without any trial or evidence. In what many see as a testimony to the failure of the war, even the Taliban came back to power in Afghanistan in 2021. Now the Western world refuses to recognise them as a legitimate government. The UK and Norway just closed the Afghan embassies in their countries saying they do not recognise the Taliban, leaving the fate of thousands of Afghan expats in limbo. And finally…. *) SpaceX launches Polaris Dawn mission for first-ever spacewalk by civilians SpaceX has launched its historic Polaris Dawn mission. This audacious orbital expedition will catapult civilians into a high-radiation region of space and see them attempt the first-ever spacewalk by non-professional astronauts. The four-member crew aims to journey farther into the cosmos than any other manned mission in more than half a century, since the end of the Apollo era. On the mission's first day, they will soar to a peak altitude of 1,400 kilometres before returning into a lower orbit.