September 21, 2024

*) Israel hits Gaza school, killing 11 people in devastating strike An Israeli air strike has hit a school in northern Gaza, where thousands of displaced Palestinians were taking shelter. At least 11 people were killed, with 22 others wounded, including women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, which took place at the Al Falouja School in the Jabalia refugee camp. Footage from the scene showed rescue workers pulling victims from the debris as crowds gathered in shock. *) Netanyahu’s attendance at the UN General Assembly is a shame: Erdogan Turkish President Erdogan didn’t hold back, calling Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s presence at the UN General Assembly “a shame” for the global community. Speaking to reporters at the end of his diplomatic visit to New York, Erdogan said it was a betrayal to the memories of those killed — from babies to UN officials — in Gaza. He also pointed out the strange behaviour of the Israeli delegation after his speech, saying, “They can’t defend themselves. Their stance says it all.” *) World can’t wait for Israel’s nod to implement two-state solution: Fidan Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticised Israel for dragging its feet on the two-state solution, warning it could destabilise the entire region. Speaking at a meeting on Gaza at the UN, Fidan made it clear — the world can’t wait for Israel’s approval. He highlighted a recent Israeli parliament decision that rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, calling it “pure greed” and urging action. *) Africa unites at UNGA to demand permanent UNSC seats ‘with veto power’ At the UN General Assembly, African leaders stood united in their long-standing demand for permanent seats on the UN Security Council — and they want veto power too. Charles Milupi, a Zambian minister, told TRT World that Africa’s message is getting louder, with leaders saying it’s time for better representation at the United Nations. Milupi also called on the current permanent members — the US, UK, China, Russia and France — to listen and reform the Security Council. *) Zelenskyy presents ‘victory plan’ to Biden In a high-stakes meeting at the White House, US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the ongoing conflict with Russia. The US had just announced nearly $8 billion in new aid for Ukraine. Biden laid out plans to ramp up security assistance, while Zelenskyy presented his strategy for achieving victory over Russia.

*) US, EU, Arab states call for Lebanon ‘temporary ceasefire’ The United States, the European Union and several Arab countries have come together to call for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon. This comes after Israeli strikes raised fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. In a joint statement, President Biden and President Macron emphasised that they have been collaborating to create this ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance and prevent further escalation. This effort is supported by nations like Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. *) Hezbollah attack on Tel Aviv ‘deeply concerning’ — White House The US is worried about a missile that Hezbollah fired from Lebanon towards Tel Aviv in Israel. John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, mentioned that it’s concerning not just for Israel but for the US too. However, he also noted that there’s still an opportunity for diplomacy to help calm things down and prevent a larger conflict. *) Trump says Ukraine is ‘demolished’ at North Carolina speech Former President Donald Trump painted a pretty grim picture of Ukraine, calling it “demolished”. During a speech in North Carolina, he suggested that Ukraine should have made some deals with Russian President Vladimir Putin before the invasion in February 2022. He argued that even a bad deal would have been better than the current situation. Trump, who has often criticised US support for Ukraine, insists that Russia would not have invaded if he were still in office, claiming he could end the war if he returned to the White House. *) Russia, US violated international laws in Ukraine, Iraq — Slovakia Slovakia’s Foreign Minister, Juraj Blanar, recently spoke out about how world powers have violated international law by invading other countries. He pointed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 as clear breaches. Speaking to the media during the UN General Assembly, he emphasised that Slovakia’s stance is straightforward: both actions were wrong under international law. He added that we cannot just excuse violations depending on who’s involved; it’s not okay for anyone to break the rules. *) Beijing ‘firmly opposes’ US ban of Chinese tech from connected vehicles China’s commerce ministry has come out strongly against the US plans to ban the sale of connected vehicles that use Chinese and Russian technology, saying it poses national security risks. A spokesperson for the ministry stated that this move has no real basis and goes against fair competition and market principles, labelling it as protectionist. This proposed rule is part of President Biden’s tougher stance on China and follows a February announcement about looking into security concerns linked to Chinese tech in cars.

*) 'UN, what are you waiting for to stop the genocide in Gaza?' — Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged unity against Israeli genocide in Palestine. Erdogan said at the UN General Assembly in New York, “I call on those yet to acknowledge Palestine to stand on the right side of history and recognise it now.” He stressed the urgent need for a fully independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, adding that delays can no longer be tolerated. Erdogan also expressed frustration at the UN's inaction, describing it as increasingly ineffective in resolving conflicts and calling for the UN Security Council to be reformed. *) Israel kills dozens of Palestinians in new Gaza air strikes Israel has killed at least 51 Palestinians, including children, and wounded several more in its air strikes on besieged Gaza. The Palestinian Civil Defense issued a statement confirming the extent of the damage and casualties caused by the latest Israeli attacks on the blockaded enclave. The Israeli army strikes targeted residential homes, two vehicles, and areas where large numbers of civilians had gathered. *) Missouri executes Muslim man amid claims of innocence The fight to save Marcellus Khalifah Williams, a Muslim man convicted of murder in Missouri, ended with his execution despite questions about his innocence. Williams, 55, was executed by lethal injection at Bonne Terre prison. He was convicted for the 1998 murder of a reporter. DNA evidence excluded Williams from the murder weapon, but the state Supreme Court blamed mishandling, not proving his innocence. *) Several dead, over 30 injured in Russian strikes on Kharkiv apartment block Russia has hit a high-rise apartment block and a bakery in Ukraine's northeastern city of Kharkiv with guided bombs, killing at least three people and injuring 31 more, according to authorities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on X, “The targets of the Russian bombs were an apartment building, a bakery, and a stadium. In other words, the everyday life of ordinary people.” *) Türkiye’s Development Road project inches closer to implementation Turkish Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced that the “Development Road” project, linking Türkiye to the Gulf via 1,200 km of rail and highways, has reached a key phase. Speaking at InnoTrans 2024, he noted that regional conflicts have caused a 30 percent drop in freight traffic through the Suez Canal. With shipping looking for new routes, Uraloglu emphasised that the Development Road project could be a crucial alternative to meet the rising demand.

*) Lebanon's death toll from Israeli strikes rises to 500 Lebanon's death toll from Israeli air strikes has risen to nearly 500, including 35 children, according to the Health Ministry. The deaths included 58 women, and some 1,645 others were wounded. Health Minister Firass Abiad said "thousands of families" had been displaced. *) US sending additional troops to Middle East as regional tensions rise The United States is sending additional troops to the Middle East after Israel's deadly strikes on Lebanon, the Pentagon said, declining to specify the precise number or mission of the deployed forces. Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, told reporters they are deploying a small number of additional personnel to reinforce forces already in the region out of an abundance of caution. *) Bangladesh army chief vows support for Yunus' government 'come what may' Bangladesh's army chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, has pledged full support for the interim government, ensuring key reforms and elections within 18 months after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Zaman and his troops stepped back during student-led protests in August, sealing the fate of Hasina, who resigned after 15 years in power and fled to India. In a rare media interview, Zaman told Reuters that the military fully backs interim leader Muhammad Yunus and outlined a plan to eliminate political influence within the army. *) Trump claims Zelenskyy wants Democrats to win 2024 elections Republican candidate Donald Trump claimed Ukrainian President Zelenskyy wants the Democrats to win the 2024 US election, where Trump faces Kamala Harris. At a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump said if elected, he’d call Putin and Zelenskyy to push for a peace deal, criticising Zelenskyy as "the greatest salesman in history" for securing billions in US aid. *) Türkiye's call for UN reform displayed on New York streets Digital screen vans have showcased visuals promoting Türkiye’s call for reform of the United Nations in New York’s busiest streets during the 79th UN General Assembly. The displays, featuring messages like "Beyond Five: Building a Global System for All" and "A Reformed UN for a Fairer World," emphasised the need for a more equitable international system. Slogans such as "Türkiye: Partner in Humanitarian Assistance and Sustainable Development" highlighted Türkiye’s global contributions.

*) Israel's attacks in Lebanon clear effort to spread war: Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has warned Israel's recent attacks on Lebanon could spread war across the region. Speaking at an event in New York, Erdogan has said Israel’s actions and statements show clear intent to escalate the conflict. He also condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling them genocide and a threat to regional peace. *) Iraqi group targets Israeli base in occupied Golan Heights An Iraqi armed group has said they targeted the Israeli observation base in the "occupied Palestinian territories". The Israeli army has also confirmed it intercepted two cruise missiles and a drone launched from Iraq towards the occupied Golan Heights. *) UNSC no longer apt, does not represent all countries: South Africa South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for UN reform, stating before the General Assembly that the Security Council is "clearly no longer fit" to address contemporary challenges. Speaking at the UN's Summit of the Future, Ramaphosa has said it's unjust and unsustainable for a few to control global security while the majority face its consequences. Highlighting ongoing wars, conflicts, and the climate crisis, he stressed that the Security Council’s structure “does not represent all countries” and fails to consider diverse viewpoints. *) Exit polls show Germany's Social Democrats leading over far-right AfD German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD) narrowly defeated the far-right AfD in Brandenburg's state election, according to exit polls. The SPD, which has governed the state since 1990, secured 32 percent of the vote, with AfD close behind at 29 percent, according to one exit poll. Another poll projected the SPD with 31 percent and AfD with 10 percent of the votes. *) Ottoman shipwreck near Datca offers glimpse of 17th century naval history Archaeologists have uncovered important artefacts from the Ottoman Empire in the Kizlan shipwreck off Datca, Türkiye. The excavation, led by Dokuz Eylül University as part of the Blue Heritage Project, is helping reveal more about the ship and the time it sank. Among the discoveries are 14 muskets belonging to the Janissaries, around 2,500 lead bullets, and exploded cannonballs, indicating that the ship was involved in a battle.

*) Over 100 rockets fired from Lebanon into Israel; some hit Haifa The Israeli military said over 100 rockets have been fired into the country from Lebanon, with some landing near the northern city of Haifa. Israeli first responders say the early morning barrage wounded at least three people, damaged buildings and set cars on fire. Social media users shared images of interceptive missiles fired from northern Israel’s air defence systems in response to the incoming threats, with explosions reported in the air. *) Israel raids Al Jazeera's bureau in Ramallah, orders closure Israeli forces raided Al Jazeera’s West Bank office early Sunday, ordering it to shut down for 45 days. The move is part of Israel’s wider crackdown on the broadcaster’s coverage of Israel’s brutal war in Gaza. Al Jazeera condemned the closure and is still broadcasting live from Amman, Jordan. *) Beijing's behaviour in South China Sea, Taiwan Strait 'aggressive': Biden US President Joe Biden said that China is "behaving aggressively" in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, using diplomacy to advance its interests. He made the remarks during the Quad Leaders Summit in Delaware. Biden added that President Xi Jinping is focusing on domestic economic challenges while seeking diplomatic space to further China's goals in the region. *) Curfew imposed across Sri Lanka amid vote counting in presidential polls Police have imposed a nationwide curfew in Sri Lanka after voting ended in the South Asian country's presidential election, with millions going to the polls throughout the day. The curfew has been imposed in "view of the safety of the public," police said after the election was held in a peaceful manner. People have been asked to stay home until 6 am local time as results of the presidential elections are expected in the coming hours. *) Istanbul Culture Road Festival to host Da Vinci, Picasso, Warhol artworks The Istanbul Culture Road Festival, running from September 28 to October 6 at the Ataturk Cultural Center, aims to boost Türkiye’s cultural brand. It's part of a series of 16 cultural events organised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2024. The festival will showcase performances, theatre, and exhibitions by renowned artists like Picasso, da Vinci, Frida Kahlo and Andy Warhol.

*) Deadly Israeli strike on Beirut suburb 'kills' top Hezbollah commander Top Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil and other senior figures of the group have been killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut's southern suburbs. Ibrahim Aqil had a $7 million bounty on his head for two 1983 Beirut truck bombings that killed more than 300 people at the American embassy. Aqil who has also used the alias Tahsin headed Hezbollah's Radwan unit. *) Lebanon slams Israel at UNSC Lebanon's Foreign Minister has told the UN Security Council that no one in this world is safe anymore after Israel's pager and walkie-talkie blasts in his country killed dozens and wounded thousands. Lebanon also accused Israel of "terrorism", saying Beirut is not seeking revenge but justice. He showed the council a large picture of a bloody hand with missing fingers. Lebanon said that they had come to the council to protect humanity and condemn the terrorist Israeli attacks clearly and unequivocally. *) Sri Lanka votes to choose a new president Millions of Sri Lankans are casting their votes to select a new president who will face the task of cementing the South Asian country's fragile economic recovery following its worst financial crisis in decades. More than 17 million of Sri Lanka's 22 million people are eligible to vote in the presidential election that has shaped up to be a close contest between incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, main opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and Marxist-leaning challenger Anura Kumara Dissanayake. *) Terrorist attack in Pakistan leaves several dead Terrorists have opened fire on a security post in northwest Pakistan, killing at least six soldiers. The attack was claimed by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror group. The military said that its troops fought bravely, foiling the attempts of intrusion and killing five assailants in the encounter. *) US regulator to seek sanctions against Elon Musk The US Securities and Exchange Commission has said it intends to seek sanctions against Elon Musk after he failed to appear for court-ordered testimony for the regulator's probe into his $44 billion takeover of Twitter. In a court filing the SEC said the sanctions motion would seek an order to show cause for why Musk should not be held in civil contempt for waiting until just three hours before the scheduled Sept. 10 testimony to advise he would not appear.

*) 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.